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Read what MASNA Accomplished in 2019! $4,000 to Undergrads & Grads! Subject: BB Campaign (Bula Buddies books, KickStarter)
2/27/19 Setting Up Successful Aquariums video
7/4/16 Re: Film in your store with Bob Fenner
5/31/16 Help with Newspaper article about aquarium regulation/SeaWorld
3/10/16
The new series within LA Fishguys, Aquarium Tech Talk
11/8/15
Promotion of Quitting Smoking (on WWM) 11/2/15
Fresh content for wetwebmedia.com 10/22/15
Newest LA Fishguys 10/12/15
Re: Site Is Broken? 7/22/15
newest LA Fishguys
SAIA Dory Campaign 7/10/15
chucks addiction website 7/5/15
Thank you for your donation to WWM
5/14/15
Thank you for your donation to WWM
5/14/15
Newest LA Fishguys 5/11/15
Rising Tide Facebook Page Published - please help to put us on the map.
4/28/15
Fishkeeping podcast + Neale!
3/29/15
Aquatics Euphoria: Bob Fenner Speaks On WetWebMedia!
3/31/15 Attn Bob Fenner- some sad news; Robert Rofen passing 3/3/15
New Saltwater fishing forum-Free Advertising
1/3/15 The following is an ongoing dialogue twixt Dave Dart, a long-time (and
excellent) marine livestock collector on Hawaii's Big Island (Kona) and RMF: 12/19/14 The Humane Society of the United States 12/19/14 Re: The Humane Society of the United States CC Bill 318 COUNTY OF HAWAII STATE OF HAWAII ORDINANCE NO. AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 4, ARTICLE 1, SECTION 4- 1 AND ADDING A NEW SECTION TO ARTICLE 4 OF THE HAWAII COUNTY CODE 1983 ( 2005 EDITION, AS AMENDED), RELATING TO TREATMENT OF AQUARIUM LIFE. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE COUNTY OF HAWAII: SECTION 1. Findings. The Council finds that numerous factors including prolonged starvation, keeping aquarium life in less than one gallon of water for transport purposes, and carrying aquarium life in certain manners cause stress to aquarium life and contribute to their mortality rate.Therefore, to reduce mortalities and improve the welfare of aquarium life held within Hawai` i County to be sold as pets, the Council acknowledges and affirms the need to prohibit certain practices that increase stress and contribute to mortality. Accordingly, to ensure the improved welfare of aquarium life held within Hawai` i County to be sold as pets and to prevent cutting short the normal lifespan of aquatic life, the Council must prohibit prolonged starvation, require a minimum water volume for transport purposes, and prohibit carrying or causing aquarium life to be carried in a manner that is likely to result in injury or death to the aquarium life. SECTION 2. Chapter 4, article 1, section 4- 1 of the Hawai` i County Code 1983 ( 2005 Edition, as amended), is amended by amending the definition of" animals" to read as follows: Animals," unless provided otherwise, include but are not limited to those animals that are customary and usual pets such as dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, honeybees, and other beasts which are maintained on the premises of a dwelling unit and kept by the resident of a dwelling unit solely for personal enjoyment and companionship, such as, without limitation, for a hobby, for legal sporting activities and for guarding of property; animals exclude aviary game birds [ and fish] as defined in the Hawai` i Revised Statutes. Animal shall further mean any " animal," " farm animal," or " poultry" as those terms are defined in [ section 1. 31.] this section." SECTION 3. Chapter 4, article 4 of the Hawai`i County Code 1983 ( 2005 Edition, as amended), is amended by adding a new section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows: Section 4- . Treatment of aquarium life to be sold for aquarium use. a) As used in this section, unless the context clearly requires otherwise: Aquarium life" means any type of saltwater fish, mollusk, crustacean, arthropod, invertebrate, or other animal harvested for aquarium use from Hawai`' s marine environment. Aquarium use" means to hold aquarium life alive in a state of captivity as pets, or for public exhibition or display, or for sale for these purposes. Sell" means to transfer, prescribe, give, or deliver to another, or to leave, barter, or exchange with another, or to agree to do the same to another for consideration." b) Any person who sells aquarium life for aquarium use is prohibited from treating aquarium life in an inhumane manner. For the purposes of this section, inhumane treatment of aquarium life includes:1) Intentionally or knowingly withholding food from aquarium life for more than twenty- four hours;2) Transporting or causing to be transported within the County aquarium life in less than one gallon of water per each aquarium life with intent to move the aquarium life outside of the County; or 3) Intentionally, knowingly, recklessly, or negligently carrying or causing to be carried in or upon any vehicle or other conveyance aquarium life within the County in a manner that is likely to result in the injury or death of the aquarium life. c) This section shall not apply: 1) To any person exercising those rights customarily and traditionally exercised for subsistence, cultural, and religious purposes and possessed by ahupua' a tenants who are descendants of native Hawaiians who inhabited the Hawaiian Islands prior to 1778, as protected by article XII, section 7, of the Hawai` i State Constitution; 2) To any government or nonprofit agency that specializes in the holding of aquarium life in a state of captivity within the County for education or scientific study, provided that the educational activity or scientific study shall not involve the sale of aquarium life; or 3) To any person possessing aquarium life for the purpose of transit through any port or airport within the County, provided that the aquarium life remains within the boundaries of the airport or port at all times while in the County. d) Any person convicted of a violation of this section shall be guilty of a petty misdemeanor and shall be subject to a fine of not more than $ 1, 000, or imprisoned of not more than thirty days, or both. e) Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit lawful fishing, including the lawful harvesting of aquatic life to be used for bait for fishing, for human consumption, or for sale for human consumption." Emily Munday's Testimony Walsh Testimony Final Testimony from AZA on Hawai'i County Bill 318
301-562-0777 tel 301-562-0888 fax www.aza.org November 17, 2014 Dear Honorable Members of the Hawai’i County Council: On behalf of the 228 accredited member institutions of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), I would like to take this opportunity to express our serious concerns regarding County of Hawai’i Bill 318 that would purportedly improve the welfare of aquarium life within Hawai’i County by prohibiting appropriate fasting for transported animals and establishing an arbitrary minimum water volume for transport purposes. We respectfully submit that if this bill were to pass, it would become impossible to ship fish and aquatic invertebrates in a safe and humane manner and thus, greatly impact the ability of accredited aquariums and zoos to educate and inspire millions of visitors with compelling exhibits that showcase the natural beauty of marine life and habitats, including coral reefs and coral reef fishes. AZA is a non-profit organization dedicated to the
advancement of accredited zoos and aquariums in the areas of animal care and
husbandry, conservation, education, science and recreation. With over 185
million visitors to 228 accredited zoos and aquariums, AZA’s focus on connecting
people and animals provides a critical link to helping animals in their native
habitats. AZA zoos and aquariums are committed to conserving
the world’s oceans for future generations of Americans and people around the
globe. We do this by educating our audiences about issues related to ocean
health, and encourage them to join us in reducing threats to fragile ocean
ecosystems and wildlife. This is very important as a recent National Research
Council study found that people learn as much as 90% of their science in
informal settings such as accredited zoos and aquariums. We strongly
believe that our message of respect, wonder and appreciation of the natural
world contributes significantly to coral reef conservation and management.
There are very few fish species that cannot be safely
fasted. For nearly all species, a two or more day fast is routinely done
to clear the gut of food so the transport bag will not be fouled. Fouling
leads to toxic levels of ammonia, and reduced concentrations of oxygen.
Furthermore, non-fasted fishes have higher oxygen demands thus exacerbating the
problem. The provisions of this bill will not improve the standards for
animal welfare; rather they will have the opposite effect leading to higher
rates of mortality. Regarding the minimum water volume requirement, there
are no published reports or scientific studies that we are aware of that support
the proposed one-gallon per each “aquarium life” standard as specified in the
bill. This is an arbitrary and capricious “standard” which appears to be
designed solely to eliminate all wild fish collections in the County. If
animal welfare is the true intent of this bill, it would be extended to cover
the welfare of aquacultured aquarium life. Those animals will continue to
be shipped using recognized industry standards including fasting and appropriate
water volumes for each species. Passage of this legislation, will not only
limit a fully sustainable trade, but would prevent the normal and ethical
transport between zoological facilities under the best standards of practical
care….including Hawaii-based zoos, aquariums and research institutions.
The AZA community views itself as potential partners
with the State of Hawai’i and its counties. We have the well-documented ability
to speak to hundreds of millions of visitors annually about marine conservation
needs. AZA accredited institutions agree that a common-sense regulatory approach
that governs the humane take, the humane after-capture husbandry and humane and
ethical transport of coral reef species in a fully sustainable manner, is a
positive step in enhancing the coral reef fishery populations throughout the
State. It is also important that legislation affecting this industry follow the
best-methods standards established over decades of proven techniques and
research. Thank you for the opportunity to provide input on these
important decisions. Respectfully,
Steven G. Olson
Bruce Carlson Vice President, Federal Relations
Director Emeritus Association of Zoos and Aquariums
Waikiki Aquarium Robert (Bob) Fenner's input re Bill 318 provisions TMC custom LEGO models
12/17/14 Lit. review/RMF re SW Aq.
12/2/14 newest LA Fishguys 11/30/14 Guest Blog Partnership... RMF strong intuition as usual
11/18/14 Aquatic Experience 10/27/14 “State of the Aquatic Industry Town
Hall” Don’t miss the “State of the Aquatic Industry
Town Hall” with Julian Sprung, Marshall Meyers, Sandy Moore, Dustin
Dorton and Chris Buerner, moderated by Chris Clevers, Friday at 6:15.
This important Town Hall is open to all Aquatic Experience 2014
attendees and exhibitors. The panel will discuss important issues
impacting fish, corals and other aquatic creatures. Retailers will
learn how they can best communicate current threats to their customers
to get them involved and ways they can help turn back the tide (no pun
intended) in a coordinated fashion. This discussion will include
PIJAC’s efforts regarding the endangered species listing of Acropora
Coral, specific species of fish and the activities of the PIJAC aquatic
committee. Bring your questions and learn what’s happened, what
may be next and what all of it could mean to the aquatics industry. STEM resources for your site
10/21/14 Upcoming LA Fishguys
10/17/14 2014 MASNA Aquarist of the Year Judging Panel - Response Requested
6/22/14 Just Kudos Today 5/16/14 Lights, Camera, Aquarium Photo Contest
3/18/13 Would you be willing to help? MonsterFishKeepers.com and
Monster Energy – 08/16/12 Your ReefTanks.info Welcome Email
8/13/12 Custom Aquariums... Actually other info. site
7/21/12 An Invitation from ReefTanks.info 7/13/12 Instructional aquarium DVDs! 7/7/12 New up and coming hobby aquarist website for possible
mention on your site 5/5/12 Fish Tank Kings - Premieres this May on
Nat Geo WILD 4/13/12 Tanked : animal planet
4/13/12 New resource 11/21/11 Article Re: CA Mag contributor and sponsor
Orphek News article from
Channelnewsasia.com 9/10/11 Tanked, Animal Planet TV
show 8/23/11 questions for Robert Fenner for a Yahoo!
story 5/18/11 Partnership with BurmesePython.com --
02/05/11 Required reading? 1/12/11 Attn: Anthony Calfo Looking for posters
1/11/2011 Anthony Calfo Bio/MACNA 2010
7/17/10 Living Oceans site 7/2/10 Coral Magazine link: Gaudy Corals Too Good To Be True
and What To Do With Invasive Lionfish 6/24/10 A blast from your past 4/8/10 Blue Zoo #100 3/16/10 Article questions, Newspaper, WWM, Wal-Mart
input 3/15/10 I want to read your books. (RMF, want to chime
in?)<<Mmm, as my work goes into print, I post most all to the
Net, where it's available for free>> 3/10/10 can't locate my Q post 3/1/10 Re: can't locate my Q post 3/2/10 Hi! -- 02/25/10 Thanks, RMF 2/18/10 Reef Central -- 11/23/09 Sea Chem, removal of useful info. on Reef
Central -- 11/23/09 New Tropic Marin Products FYI 11/17/09 A good idea, other work... --
10/21/2009 My blog 10/14/09 Re[2]: collaboration 9/28/09 This is Great! More science in petfishing...
7/21/2009 Have you heard the news? Reef Central has crashed
beyond repair... - 7/16/09 Reefkeeping Magazine switched to user generated
articles, professional authors gone - 7/16/09 Re: Reefkeeping Magazine switched to user generated
articles, professional authors gone - 7/16/09 MOFIB / Marine Breeders organization --
6/12/09 Reef life <Magazine>
09/19/09 I have added a link to your site on my blog
5/12/09 Marine Id: Lionfish 5/13/09 The All-New TFH Digital Is Now Available!
3/20/09 TFH have no current plans to drop the pulp mag..its making
money, so, makes sense to keep it running until profit takes a
downturn... For as long as people still read on the john and laptops
aren't waterproof... there will be pulp magazines... ;-)
Capital District Marine Aquarist Society Event -- 01/29/09 Hi Eric, <<Hi Linda>> Do you know about this event? http://campaign.constantcontact.com/render?v=001tVZPsFcOxvtHLhTn-LAS88HNBy8jFdRNmNDPo_C8hpgkvsh1eLsO9tJx1PQSsBZucBKKiDEw2ox-bNkLJU61JkY63QsU72izwmi3UkI4717WpBMswhwsUP5IT4-K9xkpscn59d0bqGTfGH7KT6HfYjaPUQNFgn8c6HQZm2W30s_zB_eNDGN5bA%3D%3D Check your Calendar, Saturday February 28 at The Desmond. Manufacturers and Retailers will be on hand. Speakers and Demonstrations! Click Here for More Info! [http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=blqb5wcab.0.lj5e5wcab.koqohtcab.0&ts=S0384&p=http%3A%2F%2Fcdmasfrag2009-eddies.eventbrite.com%2F] Linda <<Nope, can't say I've ever seen/heard of this before'¦but the word is out now [grin]. Cheers mate, Eric>> Will there be a new edition of the Paletta book? 1/7/09 Hi. Could you tell me if _The New Marine Aquarium: Step-By-Step Setup & Stocking Guide_ will be revised anytime soon? Thanks. <Mmm, I'd be asking the Editor/Owner of Microcosm (-books.com), Mr. James Lawrence, this question. Bob Fenner> Re: Will there be a new edition of the Paletta book? 1/7/08 I just sent him an email. Thanks! <Welcome> (P.S.: yes, I got your 2nd edition as well!) <Ahh! I do hope you enjoy, gain by its use. BobF> LA Fishguys, chugging around with a wing and a prayer... 12/22/08 hi Bob, <Yohimbo!> Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Years. <And to you and yours> how are you? how is the Kona Aquarium coming along? what's new with you? <Fine, lagging but still on, and not much> i am still doing aquarium service. the MyFishTank.com web site is getting lots of hits but orders have slowed down. Jelliquarium is slow but there is some new exposure coming the new years, along with a new species of tank-raised jelly, the Golden Sea Nettle. <Great news Jim. Do hang in there> my latest project is an aquarium reality web show called LA Fishguys >> www.lafishguys.com << i am up to 40 episodes, totaling about 90 actual shows. <Really neat Jim! I watched the first aq. svc. on the cylinder tank... I do hope the acrylic itself is not at fault here...!> i may be going to El Paso in February to work on a 600 gallon reef tank with Clayton. that will be fun :) <Please say hello to him for me> hope all is well with you and Dian. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Years. <Be seeing you! Maybe on a major network! BobF> Jim Stime, Jr. Aquarium Design - aquarium installation and service www.aquarium-design.com MyFishTank .com - acrylic aquariums, stands and canopies www.myfishtank.com Midwater Systems - jellyfish display and production systems www.jelliquarium.com LA Fishguys - web based Aquarium Reality TV www.lafishguys.com
Andrew of tropicalfishfinder.co.uk, re the poss. of a new online petfish zine 12/3/08 Hi Bob <At last we meet. Cheers Andrew> Neale has mentioned that you may be interested in developing an electronic fish mag. This is something I have had on my mind to do for quite some time. Putting one together isn't that difficult I believe, with the biggest issue being finding sufficient good quality content. I know Neale is first class at such things, but we will need several contributors and that is where I see the problem. <Ahh, we do have a "starter" e-zine... but there is need for much improvement, enlargement... there are some excellent ex.s... e.g. PFK...> I believe that an e-mag would do well in the UK with the right marketing and I am sure Neale has mentioned that I run www.tropicalfishfinder.co.uk. <Yes, I took a look. Quite enterprising> I know TFH do an electronic version of their own mag although you only get access if you have subscribed to the physical mag. I am sure you have your own ideas on this, but one way I thought of was to produce a basic magazine with spaces for regional advertising so that you may be able to fill some space for US suppliers and I can try the same in the UK. If we could then bring the whole thing together under one roof and the interested parties can then take whatever their share of the pie is on a monthly or perhaps bi-monthly basis. There are many ways of doing it and at this stage if you are interested perhaps we can put them all down on paper and see if there is a way to take it forward. Kind regards Andrew <At this juncture, I don't know how we might proceed. There are some other folks here (the U.S.) that I'd like to introduce you, the possibility/concept to... Am cc'ing JessicaT, DaveL and MikeK here in addn. to Neale and Andrew Nixon. Let's develop a mechanism for pursuing this project. Bob Fenner> MikeK input: Check this format out for an on-line mag---> http://global.synapsegroup.com/att/uverse/ Cheers, Mike <Wow! A beauty... nice features, very clear, fast-loading... B> AndrewN input: Very nice and flashy....as its essentially a flash based application, the content wont be searchable when some does a search from the WWM search facility, as i am aware.... MASNA's Spring Issue of Marine Scene -- 6/17/08 Hello MASNA Honorary members, I'm happy to announce the release of the Spring 2008 issue of MASNA's newsletter, "Marine Scene." http://www.masna.org/ms/spring08.pdf Enjoy! Cheri Cheri Phillips MASNA President www.masna.org <Thanks Cher, BobF> For Mr. Fenner 03/26/2008 Good day, <Alfie> I am from South Africa and I am looking into the feasibility of starting an Aquarium magazine in SA and as such I am trying to establish contact with Mr. Robert Fenner to ascertain if he would be prepared to write articles for a magazine and also to supply photographs. <Ahh! I will gladly assist you in what capacities I can/may> I would appreciate it if you could forward my mail to him or let me have his mail address so I can get in touch with him. Kind regards, Alfie Hayes <Make it known in what ways I may be helpful. As a content provider, what sorts of topics, areas you are looking for. Cheers, BobF, down visiting in Borneo>
Ocean Video, and on WWM soon... 2/11/08 Major Decrease in Variety of Ocean Life Ocean scientists are reporting that there has been a major decrease in the variety of ocean life over the past fifty years in many of the world's oceans. The study also shows "hot spots" where a large variety of sea life still thrives. http://www.redorbit.com/news/video/?mid=22512&utm_id=Miniplayer&utm_source=Miniplayer%2Bon%2BRedorbit&utm_medium=Miniplayer%2BSource&utm_campaign=Miniplayer Nice video player on this site. Are we ready to start putting videos on the WWM? I need to figure out how to format it. Mike <We are ready now... and can solicit folks to post... I have some right now... This particular pc... "What is diversity"? What do they mean by "lost"? Me no likee. B> Re: Podcast anyone? -- 10/01/07 Brian, There are some fantastic folks amongst our crew. I would encourage you to pursue this matter. Many are highly knowledgeable and have particular interests in various areas... Scott mentions Jeni Tyrell AKA Pufferpunk, below who is passionate about pufferfish obviously, Brenda Furtak is the anemone specialist on board, Darrel Barton is into turtles, Leslie Leddo... seahorses. Many others have varying degrees of interests in certain areas. One concern that was mentioned is that for many their depth of knowledge in specific areas is quite deep, the breadth of their knowledge may be limited and could present a challenge with live call ins. Perhaps there are ways to edit around this? I think many are concerned about not embarrassing themselves or WWM in the process, myself included. Perhaps you can share more of your thoughts here, alleviate some fears? I also wanted to mention that Scott and I will be at the NJ Frag swap event on Oct 27. Scott will be one of the feature speakers. I will make sure to introduce you to each other. You might want to make arrangements with Scott to do podcast or two upon his return to CA. He's a talker and funny, funny, funny! Did you catch his pitch at MACNA? Scott presented just before Shimek's pitch on the poor prognosis of the coral reefs. I read your sincere comments about how much you enjoyed Shimek's talk and how much it moved you. Scott's presentation was on aquascaping. He had a ton of positive feedback and many thought it was the best overall pitch of the conference, myself included. I can't say enough good things about him! He will be talking about Biotopes at the NJ affair. But you can easily get him talking about most anything and you're sure to be entertained! You might want to see if he can do a session or three... See you soon, Michelle Re: Podcast anyone? -- 10/01/07 A couple of years ago, I decided to play with some of the software on my Mac, and had a go at recording some podcasts. While I didn't have proper recording gear, the software at least is easy to use. I didn't really carry on with this project, as in the end I wasn't really happy with the results and had better uses of my time. But I still have them online at the link below. If nothing else, you get to hear me speak! http://web.mac.com/nmonks/iWeb/Talking%20Fish/Talking%20Fish% > 20Podcast/Talking%20Fish%20Podcast.html Cheers, Neale <Heeee! Is this something you think would help (enough...) of our user-base? A couple of friends in town (Nevin and Tom Bailey) have a very popular podcast sidebiz... but have listened to m'self, and... did not find satisfying... As yet, such media have no graphics... and as a vehicle of learning/education... let's say vs. entertainment... I found it wanting... B> Re: Podcast anyone? -- 10/01/07 One concern that was mentioned is that for many their depth of knowledge in >specific areas is quite deep, the breadth of their knowledge may be limited and could >present a challenge with live call ins. Perhaps there are ways to edit around this? I think >many are concerned about not embarrassing themselves or WWM in the process, myself >included. Perhaps you can share more of your thoughts here, alleviate some fears? <Hi everyone... I'd love to help, but this is my concern as well. I have a passable talent for identifying critters, but the process usually requires photos and inevitably some research. LOL I can just picture it now... Caller: "I have this thing in my tank that looks like cross between an éclair and a corndog...what is it?" Host: "Lynn, what do you think?" Lynn: "Well, it could be one of several things. Does it have..." <five long minutes of Q & A pass trying to narrow it down. The audience is starting to snore> Lynn: "Okay good. I'm pretty sure I know what it is but let me get the scientific name for you. It'll be just a minute." <Insert sounds of books crashing, pages flipping, followed by mad typing on a keyboard> Host: "Lynn do you have an answer for us?" Lynn: "Unfortunately, not a specific one. It's most likely something harmless like a ..., but I'd need a photo to confirm." Caller: "Okay, well maybe you can help me with my fish instead. It's got bumps all over it and one eyeball's hanging out. Is he going to be okay?" Lynn: I'm sorry to say that someone else will have to take over here. I'm not so great in the fish disease department. Caller: Oh, okay. Goodbye then. <Lynn hangs up, rolls eyes at self, and thinks "Well, that was pretty - Sorry Bob!". Seriously though, I know nothing about podcasts. I'm not sure how these things work - is it like one big conference call with all of us on at the same time? I know I'd be a whole lot less intimidated if critter talk was a collaborative effort. It would just be nice to have someone chime in if they had further info on a critter that I wasn't aware of. Also, does anyone know when this might take place? Thanks! -Lynn > <I'd definitely listen to such a show! B> Podcast 10/1/07 Bob, <Brian> A few months back you appeared on my podcast 120 gallons. Thanks again. Your episodes still are extremely popular. I am writing you, to see if you or any of your crew would be interested in participating in a live call in podcast. Listeners would be able to call in and ask you questions and listen to the show live. In addition to helping listeners it could drive some new traffic to wetwebmedia. Let me know if interested. <Will post, share. Cheers, BobF> Re: Podcast anyone? 10/3/07 I have Garage Band already, so basically all I'd need to assemble a Podcast would be for people to record "sound bytes" and then send them along. I could assemble then and export as the relevant MP3 file. Even hosting them isn't a problem, so that iTunes or whatever can be used to subscribe. The tricky bit is recording your sound with decent quality. I suspect that trying out Skype would be one cheap (free) way to test out each > person's Mac or PC in this regard. I've found a lot of variation, when Skype-ing to people around the world. Cheers, Neale <Well... we have almost unlimited storage for WWM... if some/all would like to try... BobF> <Chaheep! I do wish we had the means to do all sorts of projects... We can/will gladly pay for the software... and hope... pay it forward, that in time the funds might come to finance the people, more. BobF> Re: Podcast anyone? 10/3/07 > <Heeee! Is this something you think would help (enough...) of our user-base? A couple of friends in town (Nevin and Tom Bailey) have a very popular podcast sidebiz... but have listened to m'self, and... did not find satisfying... As yet, such media have no graphics... and as a vehicle of learning/education... let's say vs. entertainment... I found it wanting... B> Ahh, my dear friend, it sounds like you haven't yet met the wide world of "video podcasting".... And as far as educational AND entertaining, there are a few that are RIGHT on the money, though not quite my cup of tea - most of the really *good* ones available are centered around the technology geek industry, and cover electronics, gadgetry, radio, robotics, etc. <Yowzah!> Perhaps the BEST examples are the Make Magazine video podcasts, some or all of which can be found here: http://www.makezine.com/blog/archive/make_podcast/ I strongly recommend taking a look at a few of these, to get an idea of what can really be "done" with a good video podcast; you might even find them interesting. I know I do, and I'm not even terribly interested in electronics and gadgetry. Now, the BIG question, is there a *profitable* market for a fish-geek audio or video podcast? Nah, probably not. I wouldn't quit my day job to pursue it, but I'd gladly try to start something on the side (just not under the impression that I'd make my millions off it!). And, I'm not in the fish-geek stuff for money, anyway. Just for the love of it. <And thus, WWM...> Bob, I've toyed with the idea of asking you if you'd like to try doing a podcast for WWM - audio or video, you're an animated enough person that ANY small question turns into an adventure. I fervently wish there were some way of getting some or all of the Crew together on a very regular basis to do something like this! 'Course, I've also got a lack of recording equipment. <NealeM says he's got some... who knows...?> In any case, I think this would be a *fun* and *exciting* avenue to pursue, if anyone in the Crew has the time and equipment and inclination. Just my two cents. -Sabrina <Bingo! BobF> Posting WWM links on reef forums? -- 8/19/07 Greetings to the all the crew. <Roger/Roejay> I frequently browse Reef Central and read many posts from beginners, and even more experienced hobbyists, with questions that I know are extensively covered on WWM. Since I'm such a cheerleader for WWM, do you consider it appropriate to sometimes post a link to you as part of my reply? <Yes> I want others to benefit from the same knowledge and comprehensive answers that I and your other readers have taken advantage of. Thanks to all. Roger <And to you. The stated BB is "for profit" (strongly) and may not... appreciate sending folks elsewhere... So be it. BobF> NOAA Forecast 8/10/2007 - New Issue Posted 8/14/07 TO: Robert Fenner, wetwebmedia.com The latest issue of the NOAA Forecast has been posted online. This week's issue features stories on NOAA's new FishWatch website, the updated hurricane season outlook and the first grant recipient for the Regional Integrated Ocean Observing System. To download the Forecast, visit http://www.externalaffairs.noaa.gov . -Jeff Donald Director, NOAA External Affairs NOAA Forecast - July 16, 2007 TO: Robert Fenner, wetwebmedia.com The NOAA Forecast returns this week after a brief recess to celebrate the 4th of July. This week we report on a busy week on Capitol Hill and several opportunities for stakeholders to offer input on NOAA programs. To download this week's edition, please visit http://www.externalaffairs.noaa.gov Sincerely, Jeff Donald Director, External Affairs Podcast FYI 7/16/07 Just thought I let you know the podcast is posted. Another fine interview! It was interesting to hear your predictions on the use of cyanide. A shame they didn't come true. And glad to hear you mentioned that some of the worst cyanide users are MAC members! It is nice to hear your voice. Here the link in case you'd like to hear: http://media.podcastingmanager.com/86723-4566/Media/0003-120gallons.mp3 <Thank you for this. BobF> Podcast Interview -- 06/19/07 I was wondering if you would be interested in doing a interview for my new reefkeeping podcast 120gallons (http://120gallons.blogspot.com). We could discuss upcoming projects, your book, etc.... <If you consider that this would be of interest to your audience, it'd be fine. Please make it known what day, time... Bob Fenner> Re: Podcast Interview 6/19/07 I would be available anytime Monday or Tue-Fri after 6pm. What suits your schedule? A half hour should be fine. <Mmm, Weds. is best if this will work... PST?> Some food for thought around possible questions: re: your concientious marine aquarist book. It's often cited as the best book on the hobby. Why do you think it is so successful? What are the most important things one can do to be in the hobby and be conscientious? What do you think are the keys to successful reefkeeping? For people just starting out in the hobby, if you could give them one piece of advice, what would it be? Re: wetwebmedia When was the site started? What was the goal of starting it? Any new plans for the site in the future? What are the favorite one or two questions received by the crew at wetwebmedia? Re: other How many aquariums do you have currently? Can you describe the setup and inhabitants? Is there anything you would like to see changed in the hobby? Any interesting projects coming up? Any random closing thoughts? <Good questions! Heee! You'll have to do some powerful editing to cut my/our spiel down to half or even an hour on all this. Looking fwd to the experience, Bob Fenner> Podcast thanks -- 07/30/07 Robert, <Bri> Thanks again for the podcast interview. The listeners loved. 350 and 200 + downloads on the two episodes. <Is this a bunch?> I'll actually be in your neck of the woods in San Diego for vacation next week. I am probably going to be doing an interview with an aquarist at the Scripps aquarium. <Maybe Fernando Nosratpour... Ahh, do give me a call. The cell is 858 397 XXX> Any other must see stuff for a reefkeeper? <Mmm, what do you mean? BobF> Re: thanks -- 07/30/07 Robert, <Bri> Thanks again for the podcast interview. The listeners loved. 350 and 200 + downloads on the two episodes. <Is this a bunch?> >>>>Yeah this pretty good. We're still ramping up and both have only been available for a month and 2 weeks respectively. The podcast listening audience interested in reef aquariums is a small subset of reef keeping aquarists on the internet so we don't have as big a pool of potential listeners. We're starting to get a lot more visitors so I expect the numbers to continue to increase. I'll actually be in your neck of the woods in San Diego for vacation next week. I am probably going to be doing an interview with an aquarist at the Scripps aquarium. <Maybe Fernando Nosratpour... Ahh, do give me a call. The cell is 858 397 XXX> Any other must see stuff for a reefkeeper? <Mmm, what do you mean? BobF> >>>>Any good aquarium stores or things that a reef aquarist should see in San Diego? My daughter and I are doing the obligatory Sea World, Zoo and Animal Park. <<Oh yes... a couple of stores... Octopus' Garden and Aquatic Warehouse, both in the Kearny Mesa area. BobF>> 120 gallons podcast 6/30/07 Robert, <Bri> Thank you for doing the interview. I'm going to split the interview over two shows. The first one is edited and will be online Sunday evening at http://120gallons.blogspot.com. <Ah, good> I also had a thought. You mentioned beginners and providing them useful information. I was wondering if you would be willing to do a 5-10 minute segment (the show is published every 2 weeks) for beginner reefkeepers. Maybe starting right at the beginning of selecting and setting up a tank and going through more advanced topics. My thoughts were that you could provide a high level overview via the podcast and provide more detailed documentation and backup materials on wetwebmedia.com. Let me know if you are interested. I figure you'd be able to do the stuff for beginners you wanted to do and also reach people who aren't readers, and I'd get some more exposure and hopefully listenership on the podcast. I have voicemail setup via skype (which I used to call and record you - it's basically telephone via the internet) so it would be as easy as calling a phone # every 2 weeks and just talking....I'd do the editing, etc. Let me know your thoughts. -Brian <Glad to help. Do just contact me either here or my pers. email addr. or via phone. Cheers, and thank you for your efforts. Bob Fenner> Podcast 7/2/07 I posted the podcast today at http://120gallons.blogspot.com. I'm putting together ideas for the new reefkeeper segment start with Episode 4. My thoughts for the segments would be: 1. Before purchasing any equipment 2. Setting up a quarantine system 3. Equipment needed for main tank - tank, pumps and sump/refugium 4. Equipment continued - lighting 5. Equipment continued - skimmer 6. Equipment continued - calcium reactor 7. Setting up your tank 8. Obtaining and curing live rock 9. Adding cleanup crews 10. Dealing with Algae 11. First fish 12. First corals <All look like good intro. topics. BobF> MASNA Award Nominations 6/18/07 Each year at the annual MACNA conference, MASNA presents an award to the person who is considered to have made an outstanding contribution to the marine aquarium hobby. This person is selected by marine aquarium hobbyists all over North America - the MASNA membership. Please take a moment to nominate the person you feel is worthy of this award along with a brief statement explaining why. Past Recipients are: Bill Addison Eric Borneman Dr. Bruce A. Carlson Tom Frakes Larry Jackson Scott Michael Martin Moe, Jr. Dr. Ron Shimek Anthony Calfo Julian Sprung Bob Fenner Sanjay Joshi Deadline for submissions is July 15, 2007 - http://www.masna.org/awardballot.php YOU MUST BE A CURRENT MASNA MEMBER TO NOMINATE (for clubs - only the MASNA delegate may nominate someone, so please poll your membership and have the delegate place the club's nomination) Thanks, Cheri Phillips MASNA President <Will post Cheri. BobF> Re: MASNA Award Nominations 6/18/07 Awesome Bob and you are a lifetime MASNA honorary member, so feel free to nominate someone yourself.! Thanks, Cheri <Ahh! Will do so. Thank you for your efforts. BobF> Calfo's new book -- 6/17/07 This last January, I pre-ordered the second edition of Anthony Calfo's Coral Propagation book. It was due out this month. Do you have any information on this? <Mmm, not really. Saw Antoine a couple weekends back at the Chicago IMAC... didn't mention progress> I have not heard anything since I ordered it. Do you have a link to the Calfo/Fenner web site? Thanks, Jon laCour <Well, ours (WWM) is the .com of the addr. you've written to... Anthony's is ReadingTrees.com, otherwise you might reach him at MarineDepot.com. Bob Fenner> pH and fresh water; books, web-sites of use, mixing salt mix... adding buffers to same 3/30/07 Dear Mr. Fenner, <Karen> I am new to the world of salt water aquariums. I have really enjoyed reading your book The Conscientious Marine Aquarist ( Hopefully that was you who wrote this book because if not I will be embarrassed). <Was I> Your book had a lot of information that I have just not been able to get my hands on anywhere else. I think you and the crew at Wet Web Media are excellent. I would like to know if you have put out any new books out in the last year or so. <Mmm, the last was with friend Anthony Calfo, back in 2003... Reef Invertebrates... Another friend, Jason Chodakowski and I may finish this series (with two fish books, one on the cnidaria) some year soon> I like having books to refer back to and I also read information on the internet but I keep reading the same things on the internet. Are there any web sites that you like to go to and research information on Marine Aquariums? <I don't generally visit the various BB's in our interest other than to "get an idea" of what gear folks are using, favor... and general trends in what the hobbyists are seeing... Too much chit chat, disorganized subjective garbage to interest me... I do use fishbase.org almost daily, the Seaslugforum.com, the krib... Many other informational sites... And DO think that a "guide to indexing" such resources would be a worthy column... for an online zine (yes, this is an instruction)> I also have a question for you. When you buffer you top off water (Freshwater), can you also take that same water that is buffered as freshwater and mix it with your salt (my salt is Instant Ocean)? <Mmmm, in general, yes> I am wondering because I was thinking if you did that I thought it might raise the PH even more. <Yes, can... depending on the make-up of the source water...> Because when I mix my R/O water with the salt it comes out at around 8.2 PH. <This is fine. I would buffer, add other materials to the mixed-up synthetic... After the RO had been aerated for a while, the salt mix dissolved... it too aerated/circulated... tested...> Thank you for reading my E-mail and if possible please let me know what my water/ PH would do. <Welcome. Bob Fenner> Kona Aq. 1/17/06 I'm all in.... I'd rather not plan on moving out to Hawai'i until October or later, but when it happens it happens, and I'll be there. <Don't know time frames as yet... the physical structure may take a year or more... B> <<Yeah, I'd imagine so.... But if between then and now there's anything I can help with, do please let me know. <Mmm, all sorts... will try to get organized enough... to record our planning mtg. notes, share> Have we any idea yet as to the magnitude of the place? Size, number of systems? <Have in mind a sort of "flying wing" idea for the overall layout of the buildings... with the middle the entrance... maybe with some life-size mock-ups of whales and dolphins on one side, Mantas frolicking on the other (with the Waylan graphics on the sides, and roof natch... the book store/gift shop in da middle. Maybe forty-fifty exhibits/tanks and about the same number of scientific "dry-side" presentations... "All is Water" (about the properties...), interactive displays to dream up, fabricate with DaveL... in either side/wing... Much to do. But gots to start on the pamphlet, PR side now... get Di going on the fund-raising campaign, Pete on the design/engineering... myself on the overall ra ra...> Inhabitants? Native vs. invasive fresh/brackish shrimp displays? (grin) <All Hawaiian... including anisochrine, fresh... but, yes some pitches for non-natives... and shreemps! As well as "human/social... including historical and current activities having to do with water... paddling, swimming, shark attacks...> I'm eager to pitch in, just don't know of what use I can be in these very early stages. -SCF>> <Me neither... but am thinking about this off and on... continuously. BobF> Re: Kona Aq. - 1/18/07 Hi Bob, <Jimbo> Good to hear from you. Sounds like the Kona Aquarium has progressed beyond just an idea to something quite possible. How may I help ? <Numerous ways... Thank you for coming forward... For now, help with brainstorming/dreaming up exhibits is our primary task... And later would like your input re mechanicals and controllers... Who knows, maybe even collecting specimens... Cheers, BobF> jim Stime, Jr. Re: Kona Aq. - 1/18/07 Hi Bob, The Monterey Bays three most popular exhibits are the otters, penguins and jellyfish. I am assuming you will be limited to endemic specimens so that rules out the otters and penguins. I certainly would think a jellyfish exhibit or two or three would be something found in the islands. ( I think I know someone who does jellyfish tanks ). <We will have jellies... very cold and tropical> Fishes of Hawaii ( or any colorful fish tank ), local venomous fish ( stone fish ), reef fish, Wrasses sex differences / change, octopus tank, Seahorse tank invertebrate tanks, in door and outdoor coral tanks. <Yes!> A shark tank, local tiger ? <Ha! No...> A must would be a Caulerpa tank just to piss off the anti-Caulerpa people ( who called here the other day with some survey ) <No, they're idiots... or at least these are idiotic actions... Like murdering Somalians...> A pollution tank showing how water deposited anywhere on the island works its way down to the ocean <Good idea. B> jim Stime, Jr. Puffer Calendar 1/9/07 Hi Bob, I just had to share with you how proud I am of our new PUFFERFISH CALENDAR! The folks at my forum really worked hard at this. We're not going to make much $$$ on it--only about $4 ea (would love to some day have a booth at IMAC). I'm wondering if you have any ideas on how we can better distribute these? I think people would really love it, if they knew they existed! ~Jeni <Very nice... What is October? I encourage you to make an e-ad up, send it to the various pet-fish clubs (fresh and marine), and to the free listings in the hobby 'zines and ask for their posting... Pronto! It's already January... and most such promotion should start in latter Summer! Cheers, BobF> Re: Puffer Calendar Bob, October is the FW Pignose/arrowhead puffer (Tetraodon suvattii). Cool fish, huh? <Gorgeous... I've never seen a full-size one> I know this is really coming out late... You have no idea how hard this gal worked on this! I'm going to forward your suggestions to her. Thanks, Jeni <Real good... She/all are free to write me if they'd like. BobF> Sir Attenborough's Planet Earth - Shallow Seas 11/29/06 Hey Bob, Are you able to pick up BBC where you are? David Attenborough's new series, Planet Earth had an episode on "Shallow Seas" last Sunday night. <Not in HI unfortunately... hopefully this/it will re-play in S. California (coming back 12/2)> This episode is repeated on BBC again this Saturday (2nd) night. <Ah, good> The photography is simply amazing! The scenes from Indonesia of Goatfish and Banded snakes hunting together is jaw dropping! This is the sort of thing that would make a person take up diving and throw in the old 9 to 5. <Heee! Already did... I really enjoy Sir Attenborough's productions. Thank you for this head's up! Bob Fenner>
Help Advertising the MASNA 2006 Photo Contest 6/27/06 Hi Bob, >Once again MASNA is holding a photo contest w/ the winners being featured in a 2007 calendar to be sold at MACNA and pre-sold to the clubs. Last year you >helped advertise our photo contest by posting an advertisement for it on WetWebMedia and we'd appreciate it if you would do the same again this year. >I've attached a file w/ HTML in it that I hope you can use. If you need it to be a different format, please let me know. >Thanks, >Cheri Phillips >MASNA President >www.masna.org MASNA Spring Newsletter 6/16/06 Hello, I'm pleased to announce that the spring edition of MASNA's Marine Scene newsletter is now available online: http://www.masna.org/ms/spring2006.pdf. Enjoy! Cheri Phillips MASNA President www.masna.org <Thanks Cheri. BobF> UK Magazine Request 6/16/06 Hi Bob, <Keiran> My name is Keiran Hart and I am currently putting the pieces together in compiling a Marine only magazine; and although still in the early stages of development I really see a gap in the market over here in the UK. There is only one other magazine readily available to UK consumers and that is Marine World; the most recent of which has an article of yours in it. <Yes, the Donlans "have a good thing going"> I have priced up publishing costs for a magazine up to 100 pages; and with investment from my father (am only 20 years old) believe i can make this magazine a success. I am also in ongoing talks with suppliers and advertisers to establish acceptable unit costs as well as advertising prices for marine based companies. <Is a very tough project... for anyone, or even a group of folks of any given age... Unending due dates, rushing... I do want you to be as close to 100% sure that you want to take on this burden... I would only set out on such a venture with several months worth of production costs (likely a few hundred thousand pounds) in reserve... and with considerable personal hands-on experience (gained by working in the field, and possible schooling)... and with other identified staff already secured (sales, marketing, advertising, lay-out, distribution...). Assuredly, you cannot do all of this period. No one can> Without rambling on for too long; my main question is i need to find writers to fill the magazines content; i have read the FAQ's on Wet Web Media and see that there are quite a few individuals that are eager to provide these articles but my main problem is; at this crucial planning stage of the magazine i do not actually know what the general fee for having an article written and submitted for publishing is. Are there any set rules or do individual writers essentially set their own prices? <Mmm, there is some difference amongst the print 'zines for what they pay/offer for articles, image work. It is decidedly not much. Often a couple to few hundred dollars for an article/feature, sometimes a bit extra for photographs... Cover images are paid anywhere from a hundred to a few hundred dollars U.S. equivalent> Would you possibly be interested in submitting any article(s) for the magazine in the coming future; as i would really like to kick the first edition of with a bang, and having a reputable writer like yourself on board would be much appreciated. Thank you very much for your time Keiran Hart <I will gladly help/assist you in what ways I can/may. It is in my abiding interest to not only offer you content for purchase, but do what I may/can to assure your success. Is there a possibility as yet for you to work "in the field" of magazine publishing? Not necessarily in the marine, pet-fish, or remotely related interest, but simply to gain experience in what this is all about? Bob Fenner> Nominations for MASNA Award
6/13/06 Each year at the annual MACNA
conference, MASNA presents an award to the person who is considered to
have made an outstanding contribution to the marine aquarium hobby.
Please take a moment to nominate the person you feel is worthy of this
award , along with a brief statement explaining why. The winner will
be presented their award at the banquet on Saturday, 9/23/06 at MACNA
XVIII in Houston, TX. Re: new print mag... quarterly journal perhaps Date: Wed, 10 May 2006 23:09:41 -0700 (PDT) It is funny you should mention it Bob, but yes my friend... I must admit I had precisely a marriage of Heiko's fab Aqua Geo mag + the ole Ocean Realm + a measure of Nat. Geo + my quirky notions for columns (Medicine, Fisheries, Travelogues) in mind to make this a unique magazine. <Will be> I've done the math and feel like I can cover my butt with just ten $1K sponsors or the equivalent (underwriters, adverts, etc) <Yikes... hopefully you're not going into this underfunded... it hasn't been that long since DanielK and co. tried to talk me into producing, selling, distributing... Koralle/Coral magazine in English... and Leng subsequently shouldered, that I can relate how much work, investment this takes...> I have ten columns and will give ten full page ads, for example, to the $1K underwriters or their equiv The tentative plan is to limit advertising to 25% max of the content. Less if possible. But if/as advertising increases... content will to keep step/scale with the 3:1 ratio <A great endeavor...> I am definitely in this for the long haul. My enjoyment of article writing and photography (nurtured in great part by you) might drive this magazine in large part. <I do wish you success, will help on the content, kibitzing sides> But before the dream gets too grand... I am/will simply focus on polishing two issues to mock up samples... size up their merit, get some peer review... then shop for advertising/sponsors if warranted then. <Sounds good> I figure I will to fund the first couple experimentally to see if it can fly and is well enough received by the industry :) <There does appear to be a gap...> I really think there are enough aquatic interest folks that want to here about these such off the beaten path topics. And I really like the notion of having a monthly spotlight on luminaries like you talking about HHH, Charlie Delbeek talking about Motorcycles <G>... Eric Bodrock giving a pictorial essay on antique aquarium artifacts, etc. Aquarists will be very interested in these personal interest profiles IMO... and it will help to distinguish the magazine, I believe. <Enough for a boutique group of 1k... if they can be brought together> your input and critiques will be invaluable my friend! Anth- <Anxiously awaiting the issuance of the first two... will gladly look over, comment re layout, contents... ahead of printing if you'd like. Oh, do you want this correspondence on WWM? BobF> HHH article Date: Thu, 11 May 2006 14:27:39 -0700 (PDT) doh... I forgot :) regarding the article, Bob... please keep me posted as you time allows to finish this piece. If you can scribe it in the next month or so, we can get it into he first issue (would be rather special to me personally to have my mentor/friend in the inaugural issue... but no pressure ;))... and if not, no worries truly. As your time allows. <I do have a piece I wrote and tried to sell through a friend's agent to hollyweird... can easily pre-addend to make pet-fishish... Will do so mach schnell/hyaku once am back on the mainland (earliest next mo.)... Am saving your corr. re to remind/prompt me... Am very excited for you... starting to dream re... we did have our clothes on... Wanted to mention re having some large sum on hand... like 100k to front the whole shebang... or to goose/prompt you into considering coming out instead with a (cheaper) on-line version... but have already talked m'self out of same... Should render the same "ad-vice" as to the Koralle endeavor... need to come out big, splashy in print from the get-go...> I frankly have no hopes/prefs for article length BTW... as long as it takes (quality over qty indeed) <Will gladly have you splice/dice... much of what goes on, is the Hash is a bit risqué... but should be of interest to "inside" readership... folks who know re the HHH, moi...> Some/the significant part of it, though, I'm hoping will focus on you and what pleases/endears you to the worldwide group, endeavor/activity as opposed to just the history of the group. Some of your fav stories/runs too? <Oh yes...> looking forward to it, mate! Anth- :) <Am sure you will like this. BobF> Gathering Info. To Start A Web Site - 02/20/2006 Dear WWM, <Hi there Brad!> I am currently looking for books that would help me put together a very influential website regarding marine species In terms of having them in the aquarium and in the wild. <Hmm...well, there is much good info. to be found. Impossible to list them all here. You do plan on securing the proper rights for such use, right?> What books would you suggest for this and also websites. Thanks Brad Lash <Your best bet is to sift through our links page here http://www.wetwebmedia.com/marlinks.htm . Media reviews can be found here http://www.wetwebmedia.com/MarInd1of6.htm . This is going to be a full blown research project, not a simple answer or list. Happy hunting. - Josh> Re: Gathering Info. To Start A Web Site - 02/22/2006 Thanks Josh I will try and list as many resources as I find but if I miss some and you see something that should have been in there please do tell me. Thanks again Brad Lash <Actually, will likely need to do more. You must obtain the right to reproduce anything that others own the rights to. Could involve fees as well. Can't just "steal" others hard work. - Josh> Re: Gathering Info. To Start A Web Site - 02/27/2006 Thanks for telling me that, there are some things I am still learning about this industry and that happens to be one of them. <Always glad to help a fellow aquarist avoid legal complications. Sorry for your wait, this must be a WWM record for worst response time.> It really is hard to find correct information about species of any aquatic animal that is living in an aquarium. <Can't say I agree here.> It seems to me that all the info. is scattered all over the place and really does need to be all put together. Hopefully that problem can be resolved for the enthusiast to be more able to obtain that information freely. <Really are many such sites.> Thanks again Brad Lash <Gladly, and again, sorry for the delay. - Josh> Ultimatereef.com Expert Forum 12/29/05 Hello Bob! <Mike> I don't know if this email will reach the email address I found for you, but in hope that it does, let me introduce myself. <Okay> My name is Mike Irving, and I am involved with an internet based bulletin board called Ultimatereef.com. It is based in the UK and is the biggest, and longest established reefkeeping bulletin board in the UK today. It has over 5 thousand members and has been on the go for around 5 years now. It's basically the UK equivalent of Reefcentral.com. <I see> Firstly, a question that will supercede the need to read any further: Is WWM still used as Q&A type site? <Mmm, yes... we do get, respond to questions... but you may be referring to another semi-related BB, WetWebFotos.com that is more akin to your product> If so, you will still be busy spending your time on this, and therefore my request below may not interest you. If not however, could I trouble you to read on? <Will do so> We've struggled to make Ultimatereef.com the best site there is in the UK, and in my humble opinion we are achieving it. As with all bulletin board, you have a small minority who play the fool, but they are swiftly taken care of by yours truly!! <Ah, good> We have recently introduced and "Ask the Panel" forum, where member can ask a selected panel of trusted and experienced members their questions. This was a first for the UK reefkeeping scene, and amongst our trusted members we have some like Martin Lakin who has been working with David Saxby of Deltec giving presentation in the states and at MACNA, or our own Clayton, who has worked on various conservation/research programmes in places like the great barrier reef, and the Philippines, before working as the senior aquarist at London Zoo. <I do know of them> As an expansion, I would love to see some panelist who everyone in the industry looks up to, and this brings me to this email. In a very forward manner, which I hope you'll forgive me for, I would like to ask you if you would be prepared to give up some time to participate? <I wish I could. In good faith I just don't have the time... now or for the foreseeable future. And I don't even have a day job!> I understand completely, the constraints of the notoriety that you and your peers have achieved, and again understand if you say no. Time is a precious commodity in this world, and obviously other things take priority. If however, you were interested, or could be persuaded, then you would be given full moderator access to the site, which would afford you the highest protection available. Additionally, the questions that are asked in the "panel" forum, are moderated BEFORE they are published, again to afford the panel with the most protection. If this email reaches you, please feel free to get back in touch with me if you have any questions. I'm more than happy to discuss any aspect with you , if you are so inclined. Many thanks for your time in advance. Mike Irving www.ultimatereef.com <Thank you for your kind offer and your earnest efforts Mike. Bob Fenner> Re: Ultimatereef.com Expert Forum 12/29/05 Bob, Thank you very much for replying, and I can well believe how busy you are!! Thanks for giving up the time to read through that though - it's appreciated. All the best for 2006! Mike Irving Team UR.com <To you and yours as well Mike. Hope to "run into" you along the way. Are you attending Interzoo in May? Are you a dive/traveler? BobF> Re: Ultimatereef.com Expert Forum 12/29/05 Hey Bob, <Mike> Interzoo eh... Is this the event in Nuremburg, Germany?? <Yes> If so, I would love to go, but as it's trade only, don't know if I would fall into that category. <Mmm, well... there is (need for) cross-mixing twixt the industry and hobby interests... much that we can/do learn from/with each other. As a content provider you're even that much closer to actually being in the business... You can/could "piggyback" on the name of another company if necessary (likely not), even our own if you'd like> I've worked with some of the peep at Tonmo.com a fair bit, and was the first in the UK to captively rear dwarf tropical cuttlefish. In fact I supplied the dwarf cuttles to one of the most well known aquarium chain for their exhibits throughout Europe. My www @ www.cephsuk.co.uk tells the story. I digress - I still doubt I have the "credentials" to get in!! hehehe. <I do not... and very much encourage you to attend> Not much of a diver, although I keep meaning to get my open water every year!! Maybe this year in the comfort of the Red Sea I keep promising myself! Mike. <Here's my big offer/pitch... Please do consider starting the series of classes there and finish the open water dives in Sharm with us... after the Interzoo. We've had friends do this... a blast. Bob Fenner> Re: Ultimatereef.com Expert Forum Bob, <Mike> Thanks for you kind words, I neither expected nor was prepared for such kind words from a man like yourself! I'm quite flattered. <Heeee! As my friends, associates will note, "I can't stand to not stir the pot"... urge folks into more involvement in our interests> I will give some serious thought to the Interzoo scenario, although work commitments may prevent me, and in any case, would doubt if I could make a contribution apart from providing a write up from our website and the UK as a whole. <One never knows... there are travelogues elsewhere... the in-flight magazines for one are a huge market... keep taking notes, making images...> Diving does sound like a blast, and I hope this will be the year I learn. Again thanks for your offer - would I be write in assuming you have a dive company then if I were to finish off the open water dives with "you"? <Mmm, not a dive company, but we take friends about, or go with them a few times (about half the) year... If there are discounts to be had, we split all costs/savings... The wife does have a travel agent license, and we have many skilled friends, associates in the dive/adventure travel industry> Seeing as you have been so accommodating with my emails to you, I'm going to push my luck and make another suggestion. Only because from being someone who could have quite easily dismissed my email to the trash can, and instead taking the time to reply and offer so much generously - this means I think you're a top guy. <At least a fellow quirky pet-fish type!> How would a monthly/bi-monthly article for Ultimatereef.com sit with you? <Mmm, I pen a monthly column for half a dozen 'zines as it is... Not to beg off here, but I would just the same you folks used some "newer blood" in the way of content providers... But, do you have a format (short hopefully), theme/series in mind?> In my early stages of thought, I'm thinking maybe pick a question once or month/two from our "panel" forum that has raised some good discussion, then forward to you to write a paragraph or two of your thoughts.... <This may be do-able... I "spend" a handful of hours most days "helping" on the Net, mainly WWM re our fields of interest... for free... and am away from contact a good deal of the time... do have the "business of life" to attend to... and gardening, cooking, hashing (the running group, not the drug), and various other odd commitments... Am wont to agree to taking on anything w/o dropping (consciously) something else.> Or maybe better, give you free reign, and let you write an "article", which we would add to a library forum which I would create in the expert forum?? <Sigh... I do wish I had a/the magical formula for time> God loves a tryer Bob ;o) <Which god?> Anyway, again, I'm happy with a No from you, as feel you would genuinely dig in if it were practical for you, so please do not be afraid to say the word "no". <Likely this is the case... though I will gladly solicit help for you, your site...> Thanking you again for your words, I really do consider them high praise indeed. All the best, Mike <Hope to run into you, your crew over time/space. Cheers, Bob Fenner> Online Interview 11/24/05 I was just wanted to let you all know I was interviewed for a podcast. You can hear it here, http://www.talkingreef.com/ episode 19. And, the complete article of the experiment that we discussed will be available at www.Reefkeeping.com in December. Have a happy Thanksgiving! Steven Pro <And to you, Deb, your children. BobF> What Happened? (To the Breeder's Registry Website) 11/15/05 http://www.breedersregistry.org/ Bob, <Ron> I am curious as to what happened to the Breeder's Registry website. I haven't been able to access this for several weeks now. Is there an alternative to this site? If not I am interested in keeping up what they started. <Is back: http://www.breedersregistry.org/> Also, I heard that there is opportunity in becoming a regional distributor of aquarium products. How would one break into something like this? <Mmm, apply... to the manufacturer/s or distributors themselves> Any information you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Ron Looker <Bob Fenner> "Discover the Blue" is Finished 10/28/05 Hi Bob, <Jacques> We have proudly completed our project (you might recall) http://www.DiscoverTheBlue.com. <Ah, congratulations!> Special thanks to you and your great site. Your name is in the credits. <Thank you> Now as promised some months ago I would like to send you a copy. It is a PAL version, but it will work in colour on your computer. The NTSC version is in the works and will still take a while, because we are re-editing all films to make em even better...! We are very keen to hear your opinion! Please send me your mailing address. <Is: 8586 Menkar Rd., San Diego, CA 92116. Bob Fenner> Jacques Tarnero artifishal productions Tel: +63-921-765 41 58 Skype: jacquestarnero http://www.artifishal.com http://www.DiscoverTheBlue.com New Reef Aquarium Resource 8/14/05 Dear Sir, My name is William and I am the owner of a new website for reef aquarium enthusiasts like myself. My goal is to further the hobby and bring people who are new to the hobby and experienced reef keepers together to share information through message boards and online events. I have also set up a section of the website which I am very excited about dedicated to auctions of reef equipment, livestock, coral etc and am offering special advertising and free auction accounts to new vendors who might be interested in selling on the website. I would love to send you more information about this exciting new resource. If you are interested please email me back and I will be happy to email or mail an information packet. Thanks, William Glenn <William, please send your URL, other info. for our posting on WetWebMedia.com Bob Fenner> Book stuff 7/12/05 Hey Bob, I didn't get much in the way of specifics from Knepper, but they gave me a quote of $22.1k for 2,000 copies, or $29.9k for 5,000. That would be at 8x9" and 250 pages. A lot less than I thought it would be, actually. <Yes... and these folks do medium to good work... there is the shipping to consider> So, now for other stuff... If I bought 2,000 then they're $11 each. If they sell, for say $24.95, how much more of the retail price is going to go to expenses? <Uh... wait a moment... if you pay eleven... they will need to sell for retail for about forty... there is another distribution level to consider...> I have no idea what wholesale pricing would be like... <In the trade, this is usually from 40 (on the low end) to sixty percent on top of your costs... Retail folks get at least the same... most stores keystone (double) mark up books> Then there's adverts, too, but I'm hoping to do some articles for ads trading when then time comes, so that'll help there. <Good idea> I'm trying to figure out how many copies would have to sell before the costs are covered. Input? <Lots... and I do hope I can be of help/info. here. Gots to ask... how long do you figure/guess it will/would take to sell 5k copies? How much do you want to "make on your money" for having the funds tied up, warehousing the extra inventory? The difference in price is appreciable. Knowing what little I do re the market, I would have the 5k printed...> BTW - I'm heading out for Bali on Friday for a tour of the big clam/coral farm there. Hopefully it will go well. <Do send some pix along!> Talk to you later amigo, J <Wish I was going with you, BobF> Regarding the use of your articles Dear Robert, <Amy> My name is Amy Chen, a content producer of PetHop.com. We are an upcoming online pet community dedicated to pet care, services, and other animal related topics. I came across some of your articles related to aquarium management on the internet recently, and was wondering if you are interested in publishing your articles on our site. You will retain all rights to your articles, and in exchange, we will provide you one page of html with any content, including images, on PetHop.com. This page will be directly linked from your article. You could have it be your personal profile, or an advertisement of some sort. We will also include your own website into our directory database. If you wish to preview PetHop.com, please go to http://www.pethop.com/index.php. <A nice site... clean, fast-loading...> Thank you very much and we look forward to hearing from you. Regards, Amy Chen Content Producer <?> <Mmm, no thanks. Not interested in "spreading our content" in this way. Bob Fenner, WetWebMedia> EBB Project, looking for petfish, aquatic science presenters Mr. Fenner, <Chris> I am writing to you on behalf of www.fragtraders.com, an online forum for marine aquarium hobbyists to share information. The forum is pretty new, started approximately 6 months ago, and we are still looking to attract guest speakers/authors who have had experience in the hobby and in the science relating to marine habitats. We would like to know if you would be interested in donating some of your time to write an article; sponsor a chat session where members would be able to post questions to you; or a standing thread dedicated to asking you questions related to marine habitats? If you are interested in any of the above avenues, or would like to suggest a different approach please let me know. Also if there are specific topics you would like to address we are interested in any input you are willing to share. I am looking forward to your response. V/R Christopher Cutting <Thank you for your efforts. I will gladly render you whatever input I can. Time is very short however... am backed up (and getting more inefficient by the day) with projects, some deadlines. I will post your note (on WWM) and URL/link... and ask that others who have interest contact you through your site to share. Otherwise, please put me on your "tickler file" and re-contact us every quarter or so. Bob Fenner> Reef Hobbyist online - March 2005 As another 2 months have passed us, we are very pleased to announce that the March 2005 edition of Reef Hobbyist Online is now available! We have packed this edition to the gills, adding 1 new section that will be available in each future edition as well as providing our readers with an extra attraction this month by Steven Pro. Starting with the March 2005 edition, you will also notice that the bottom of each page has a link to view a printable version. We realize that not everyone has time to sit down and read the articles at their computer so we made this option available so you could print and read at your leisure. In the March 2005 edition you will find: Introduction to the March 2005 edition of RHO Ctenochaetus striatus - By Gene Schwartz Clean-Up Crews - By Scott Zachow Beautiful Seagrasses - By Anthony Calfo Refugium Installation - By Steven Pro Featured Member - Eric and Sheila Ropke Be sure to check out this edition and the past editions of Reef Hobbyist Online: http://www.reefland.com/rho Other Reefland.com News: Over the past several months, the exclusive Personal Online Aquarium Log has continued to grow and we are now ready to start developing the next version. We already have a lot of great features planned for the next version but we also want to hear suggestions from you! Don't miss the opportunity to suggest something that will make this resource more useful to you. http://www.reefland.com/forum/showthread.php?t=14721 And lastly, don't forget to visit us and chat at our forum: http://www.reefland.com/forum Reef On! The Staff of Reefland.com Re: Was Refugium, Videos Bob, can you look at the sent mail. I've sent a reply to Jim Aufiero, but also in his query he asks about producing "how to" videos. Thought you might want to read it and add your input if necessary. James <Will do. Bob><<Thanks James... I feel about the same way as you do re the instructiveness of videos... the reason why I rarely invest time in "watching" the news... too passive, non-instructive... perhaps (for me) too sensory indiscriminate. There are some videos detailing aspects of the hobby... some very boring... George Smit sitting in a chair for hours drolling on re the "Mini Riff/Reef" in the mid eighties... to each their own. The better of these videos is offered by Dr.s Foster and Smith (.com). Bob Fenner> Boosting Grimreefers.com participation bob, sorry to bother you once again, I trust you had a good weekend... .just had a few questions.. actually one. do you have any tips for promoting my forums? I seem to get just enough traffic to keep it afloat, but I would like to see the forum grow and attract more members. Did you have any secret to getting WetWeb as big as it is? Advertising or search engines, etc.? <Mmm, wish I had something more substantive to offer, but basically "doing a good job over a given time" has been our program... we've never advertised per se, or asked others to link us, or subscribed to search engines or directories> sorry if I'm bugging you.... <Never a bother> and also it would be an honor to have you say hello on grimreefers... if you have time, that is.. I completely understand if you don't. I'm grateful enough that you added my link to your website. cheers, Dave. <I try to put in the 2-3 hours here (other than "the biz of life" here, cooking, cleaning, working on the garden, the occasional writing... oh and travel, photography. Thank goodness I don't have a "real" job. Other than my "five daily tasks/checklist, don't have much time else. Bob Fenner> Re: Triggerfish & Pongo Posting Dear Bob and All at Wet Web, Thank you very kindly for posting our invitation/announcement for our new site! We really do appreciate it. Thank you again and best wishes, Glen R. Smith Triggerfish and Pongo Designs www.reef-rainforest.com <You're certainly welcome. Bob Fenner> Hand made water hyacinth Dear sirs, I found your contact details on the web, I'd like to show you our website, we hand make our water hyacinth products in the country side of central and northern Thailand. please see our website address below, http://thehandicraftsplace.netfirms.com/Water%20hyacinth%20crafts%20home.htm Best Regards, Pisamai Mapob, Water Hyacinth Co LTD. (Thailand) <Neat. Will post your note, link, but do check your site as some of the links are "dead". Bob Fenner> - Site Advertising - Hi WetWebMedia webmaster. <I don't know if I'd call myself that exactly, but let's see if I can help.> You have good web site ( http://www.wetwebmedia.com/ ../WWMAdminSubWebIndex/sponsorinput.htm ) but I am new in site advertising issues and am finding it difficult to find good way to promote my affiliate page at http://www.clicks4u.com/M2749/credits.shtml which is traffic exchange which traffictoburn recommended to me. They give me 40% commission for every sale I make but my sales have been few with sometimes $30 every twice per month or so. Which is most cost effective advertising way to advertise this affiliate opportunity and make the maximum profit? <Really depends on what your product is - our advertising method works for us because we perform a vital service to the pet fish industry and the hobbyist. The resultant traffic is really just the result of the quality of service and not affiliate programs or our advertising anywhere but our own web site.> What is the maximum number of sales and money can I expect to make if I promote right??? <Again... I don't even know what your product is - if all you are trying to do is drive traffic towards a click-marketing page, then I can't imagine it will do you much good. These things are market driven - simple supply and demand economic theory still hold - if there is demand for your product, there will be a suitable market for it.> Please excuse my poor English. <No worries.> thank you Natasha <Cheers, J -- > MASNA National Speaker Database - Bob Fenner Hello Bob, <Cheri> MASNA is in the process of creating a National Speaker database based upon nominations from MASNA member clubs of the "best of the best" speakers that have done presentations for their clubs. The idea is to create a database, available to MASNA club delegates only, that contains speaker contact information (typically only eMAIL address, city and state), most enjoyed presentation titles, comments and indication of special needs such as the amount of any required honorarium. We believe access to this database will be a valuable benefit to both new and established clubs. <I see> We will only include speakers in the database that have given us permission to do so. I'm pleased to say that your name has been submitted as a "best of the best" candidate. Please fill out the form below and return this eMAIL to me as soon as possible. We hope you feel honored by this request and will choose to participate. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to ask! Thank you, Cheri Phillips MASNA - Director of Membership and Secretary cheri@uniquesensations.com Yes, please include me in MASNA's National Speaker's Database <Go ahead. I "give about a pitch a month"> No, I would rather not participate eMAIL Address:____Crew@WetWebMedia.com__________________________________ City:_________________San Diego_____________________________ State:__________CA____________ Favorite Presentations: _____________Most any marine group, topic... including business and scientific___________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ Special Requirements: _______________Laptop projector__________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ _________________________________________________ Honorarium $$: ____0___ Fish Olympics (Piscine quiz) Hi Bob, <Cheers Billy> A suggested link for your site. It's called Fish Olympics ( www.liverpoolmuseums.org.uk/nof/fish/ ) and its being well received by people so far. You can test your fishy knowledge in the Cross Country Camouflage, Long Distance Breed, Eating Event and 100 metre swim! Regards, Ray Mullet <Neat! Thank you for sending this along. Bob Fenner> Herbert Axelrod, Philanthropist Who Gave New Jersey Symphony Rare String Instruments, Flees US to Avoid Tax Evasion Charges By Tom BellTRENTON, New Jersey (AP) -- A philanthropist best known for selling millions of dollars worth of musical instruments at a discount to the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra has fled to Cuba to avoid tax fraud charges, authorities said Wednesday.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Guadagno said Axelrod's yacht was docked in Cuba and that Axelrod was staying at the Marina Hemingway, a four-star resort in Havana. The United States has no extradition treaty with Cuba. Guadagno said Axelrod was aware of the charges against him and the court hearing scheduled for Wednesday. An Axelrod associate told the U.S. Attorney's Office that Axelrod recently traveled from Zurich, Switzerland, to Cuba and had no intention of returning to this country, Guadagno told U.S. District Court Judge Garrett Brown. Attorney Michael Himmel, who had been representing Axelrod, said he had notified him of the indictment and Wednesday's court hearing, Guadagno told the judge. But Himmel, who did not attend Wednesday's proceeding, told Guadagno that he had not been retained by Axelrod for the tax case. Axelrod was charged with using Swiss bank accounts to hide income from the IRS. In February 2003, Axelrod sold 30 rare Italian string instruments he had collected, which were valued at US$50 million, to the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra for US$18 million. MACO course Hi Bob, This is Bill Grimlan from MACO. I am just wondering if we still are on your schedule for a MACO course in the summer. We will probably start in June, if not July at the latest. Let me know If you have any questions or need any thing. Thanks Bob. Bill Grimlan MACO Admin. Reefs.org Admin. <Bill, am sorry, but I want to back out of this possibility altogether. Am overwhelmed (not by work so don't feel badly for me) with fun projects... traveling, diving, writing, making images... Please do consider coming on out on some of our journeys. Bob Fenner> Reef Central This ? is for Cody, was reading the ? answer site a person had mentioned about lighting on a chat forum found on RC site, you said you visit it a lot, what is the web site name?<www.reefcentral.com. Cody> Thanks Brian Please confirm your request to join FishNChips Hello crew@mail.wetwebmedia.com, We have received your request to join the FishNChips group hosted by Yahoo! Groups, a free, easy-to-use community service. This request will expire in 7 days. TO BECOME A MEMBER OF THE GROUP: 1) Go to the Yahoo! Groups site by clicking on this link: http://groups.yahoo.com/i?i=TtqSHPljTk2VWHoyl-jpcbAzw5M&e=crew%40mail%2Ewetwebmedia%2Ecom (If clicking doesn't work, "Cut" and "Paste" the line above into your Web browser's address bar.) -OR- 2) REPLY to this email by clicking "Reply" and then "Send" in your email program If you did not request, or do not want, a membership in the FishNChips group, please accept our apologies and ignore this message. Regards, Yahoo! Groups Customer Care Your use of Yahoo! Groups is subject to http://docs.yahoo.com/info/terms/ Aquariums category Hello, <Hi there> We're creating a directory focused on web site credibility. We included: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/ in the Aquariums section of the All.info directory. <Neat> Descriptive information provided by you and our editors helps our users choose sites. Our editors have already selected starter key terms and a category for your web site. To review their work, add information and gain editorial control over your site's record in our system, please update your information here: http://all.info/s?a=l&z=1rkuox0qo5g2njsoeiek0c More information about All. info is available at: http://www.all.info Thanks in advance. Ian Lenzen Editor, All. info - the Directory of Topics Note: If you are NOT the proper site contact or you would like to provide a corrected site contact, please update it here: http://all.info/s?a=nl&z=1rkuox0qo5g2njsoeiek0c&x=bobfenner%40wetwebmedia.com If you have other questions, please email: priority@all.info <Thank you for your note. Bob Fenner> A degree in Pet Fishing? Sign me up! Hi Bob, <Hello Dennis> I've been using the Conscientious Aquarist as a textbook for my Marine Science 120 marine aquarium class since it was first published. It replaced Moe's book, that we used for about five years. It's been very good for my students and an excellent resource. <Martin paid me a big compliment saying CMA was like his writing, but with pictures!> Our Aquarium class is offered in both spring and fall semesters and requires a prerequisite of our beginning level Marine Science 100 - Oceanography - class. We usually have between 15 and 25 students that take the class each semester, read the book and work in our school aquariums - feeding, cleaning, setting up displays, and water quality maintenance. We have six aquariums (about 1200 gallons total) hooked together in a recirculating, chilled, closed-system aquarium that displays fish local to Orange County, CA. We have another five aquariums (850 gallons total) of tropical aquariums, including a 150 gallon living reef. <Sounds very nice> Here are a few questions I had for you. 1. Are you working on a new edition of the Conscientious Aquarist? <Mmm, not specifically. I do archive suggestions, corrections for upcoming revisions... the work has been reprinted a number of times... Am working on a few other titles... a freshwater Cons. Aquarist tome with Sabrina Fullhart, the next couple of titles with Anthony Calfo in the "Natural Marine Aquarium" series. Do you have a copy of "Reef Invertebrates"? Pls send along a more complete address and I'll send a copy along to you> 2. If yes to the above, have you considered including discussions of cold water systems, their attributes and challenges <Yes... the original text was more than 1,100 pages... cut back a great deal (thank goodness) for salability/applicability... but had much of the words/ideas of Dave Wrobel (still at the Monterey Aquarium I believe) on cool/coldwater systems... A collection of his articles (mainly through FAMA) would likely work for you...> 3. Do you give lectures? Wayland said you live in San Diego and I was just wondering. <I do give pitches (have about monthly for the last twenty-thirty years... for free. "Pro bono"...> Thanks for your consideration, Dennis Kelly, Professor Marine Science Department Orange Coast College <Glad to make your acquaintance. Hope we will meet someday soon. Bob Fenner> Praise For Reeftopia.com (1/13/04) Hi Crew, <Steve Allen here> This time I actually do not have a question (unbelievable huh!:-); <I'm sure you could think of at least one if you really try hard. :)> instead I just wanted to pass-along a good experience I had with a recent online purchase from Reeftopia.com. <Great> Not only were Reeftopia.com's prices very competitive (when considering total cost, including shipping, etc.) but I also I feel they went above and beyond the "normal" sales and customer satisfaction process. I had a seemingly-unique problem with "something" growing on my acrylic tank. Rather than just sell me a variety of "janitors", they took the time to ask specific questions and to try to determine what this problem might be. They even included a few additional snails in my order just to try-out to see if they helped solve my problem! I have not yet found this level of personalized service with any other online supplier. <This kind of help is so great. I wish every business were this way. Truly good businesspeople understand the value of a satisfied customer base. I would add Indo-Pacific Sea Farms (www.ipsf.com) and Inland Aquatics (www.inlandaquatics.com) to that list. They have been very helpful to me. Do consider posting this experience on the Local/Internet Fish Stores forum at WetWebFotos.com> One other advantage: I also purchased a queen conch with my order. I nearly skipped this purchase because I ordered a fighting conch and a queen conch from another online store and I could not see why anyone would pay $6 for a conch that is the same size as an Astrea snail. When I receive my queen conch from Reeftopia.com I was very pleased to see a 2" conch! <Don't you just love a pleasant surprise.> Purchasing live fish and inverts online can be unnerving so I just wanted to pass-along this experience. Their selection might not be as large <thus enabling them to be better at the ones they do stock> as some other reef livestock web sites but I would not hesitate to purchase from Reeftopia.com again. <Thanks for the heads up.> --Greg Calendars Do you sell marine calendars, or know where to get them. You have such beautiful pictures. It would be nice to have a yearly calendar of them. Thanks, Cheryl <We don't make or sell them, but the fine folks at Microcosm-books.com (pls note the hyphen in the URL) do, and they are beauts. Thank you for asking. Bob Fenner> PETA petition Howdy, I very much agree with the following petition. Please read and if you agree follow the instructions to sign. Also, please pass this on to others. Elwyn Segrest http://www.PetitionOnline.com/rvkptaex/ <Thanks for sending this along Elwyn. Will post on our root web (www.WetWebMedia.com). We currently have about 10,000 ISP sessions per day. Bob Fenner> Reefland.com / WWM Partnership Hi Bob, Scott from Reefland.com here. I hope all is going well for you and your family. <Yes, thank you> I have for a long time been developing Reefland.com and our online Community as you know. I am now starting to move to what must be our next step and that is to offer the members of Reefland the next level of expertise during the discussion of their Marine Aquariums and for me that means offering them support and general discussions from industry leaders and experts such as yourself and the WetWebMedia team. <Okay...> What I have planned for and am now ready to implement is a Priority Support forum for paid, subscribing members of Reefland.com which are "manned" with industry leaders and experts. Subscribing Members who query this forum will know that the information they receive is that from experts who are well versed in the industry, in addition to other Subscribing Members who can participate. Currently, I offer members of Reefland an optional Contributing Member usergroup for $10 per year which gives them use to Avatars on our forum and gives them unlimited disk space to upload attachments to their posts and unlimited disk space in our Photo Gallery. What I propose to you is to set up a Premium Contributing Member usergroup for $25 per year which gives them access to this Priority Support Forum in addition to the benefits listed above. 100% of the additional proceeds ($15) from this Premium Member contribution goes to the "experts" that provide the support; Bob Fenner and the WWM Crew for their time and expertise. The remaining $10 of this contribution stays at Reefland.com as it does now to fund our site; the server and various software's that are used to power Reefland.com <Hmm, an interesting concept... but one that I don't think whose time has come. We (or at least myself and I believe most of the others of WWM) do what we do to help (inform, inspire... even retain!) other hobbyists, business folks and scientists in the aquatics interests. It would be "nice" to get paid... but not at the cost of losing folks interest, their livestock, them as participants. Our longer-term view is to spend what we do generate from sponsors ads on our root webs and BB and a portion of our media sales to our collective betterment (adventure travel, diving...), but other folks here are certainly welcome to join you if so interested.> Based on what I project to be your current advertising rates at WWM and the current participants, it would only take 1,000 Premium Members for WetWebMedia to match it's current revenue from advertisements of $15,000 annually. I highlight only 1,000 as it is proven from other online communities that the member base reaches well over 10,000 active members of which participate because of the "experts" available to them at that site. I would project that at the end of the first year the Premium Membership will be closer to 2,000 to double my estimated ad revenue from WWM. <Mmm, we have a few thousand dollars a month in said ad revenue, about 10k ISP sessions per day, an indeterminate sum of money from book sales... but definitely no (at least for me) time to put into other endeavors... We (WWM Crew) don't get "paid".> Let me now move on and try to answer some of the questions you may have. Regarding the logistics behind the subscriptions, we are already set up with an automated process for subscribing members therefore there is no work that has to be put into this to start it or to maintain it. Once a member orders the Premium Membership they are automatically moved into this usergroup and granted access to these features until the end of the term at which point they have the option to renew. Again, no administrative work on anyone's part is needed to maintain this functionality. Secondly, I would be willing to jointly share the available space within this forum for the advertisers which could potentially bring us both additional ad revenues. We would have to discuss this a bit more to determined and agree upon space but it should be no problem as I only offer advertisers the 480x60 spot near the top. My intentions are not to take away from the WWM visitors but to add to their experience. Therefore the forum could be molded to match the WWM site (as far as links and such) along with the Reefland.com style. With all due respect to you and your teams efforts, the power, searchability and scalability of the VB forum is awesome and to those of us in search of information and knowledge, this is invaluable. Along with this is the continued ability to limit access to other features and areas of the site if we so choose down the road. <VB? Visual Basic?> I hope that you will consider this proposal and know that I am open for any ideas or discussion surrounding this idea. The planning and research I have done tells me that this could be an excellent opportunity for the online marine enthusiast community as well as Reefland.com and WetWebMedia. The benefits to everyone involved is obvious. Looking forward to hearing from you, Scott Zachow Reefland.com <I appreciate your kind offer... I/We are quite happy/satisfied with what we have/are doing currently though. Best of luck, life to you in your endeavors. Bob Fenner> Re: Reefland.com / WWM Partnership Hey there, <Hi Sabrina!> Just wanted to let you know, I whole-heartedly agree with your stance on this, and thank you for it; I do not wish to be paid for any advice that is asked of me, in person, on a forum, through WWM, or anything. I do not wish to do this for money; there is certainly something to be said for the gratification of helping some twelve year old kid with a bloaty goldfish (ARGH.... just ONE more bloaty goldfish question, and I'll.... nah, just kiddin', bring 'em on....) and knowing that that *beloved* (albeit ugly, cheap, dumb) goldfish will be okay. <Ka bloom!> I am very GLAD that WWM does not charge for advice; where would those kids with their Bettas and platys go to find out what to fix? I don't expect a young kid to be paying a subscription to ask us how to fix their fungused fish - and that kid's fish is equally as important as any pricey SW fish - at least to that kid. <Am totally in agreement> In any case, I guess all this boils down to a matter of principal. I would rather pay (in time, efforts, whatever) to help than to be paid for helping. <Me too. It may come to what we have to offer paying us... but I don't see this in the near (next few years) time frame> Just wanted to say thanks for your stance on this (though I'd expect no differently from one like you), and let you know there will be no mutiny from me, for a lousy few bucks. Not that there'd be any call for a FW plant/shrimp geek on a reef board, anyway - but all the same, as long as my services are useful to WWM, I'll be sticking around. -Sabrina <Thank you my friend. Bob> Siegel Article Hello to Steven Pro or his Proxy, I've seen a few references to an article Terry Siegel wrote in "Marine Fish and Reef 2002 Annual" (i.e., here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/reefparasittksfaqs.htm) about fighting ich in a reef tank using a wide combo of non-medicated methods .. but, I cannot seem to get my hands on this article. Searched the publisher's web-site (www.fancypublications.com) to no avail ... and LFS has no clue (well, this can be the case for a lot of questions asked there.) Any leads on snagging this article would be appreciated .... Thanks, SLC <You might try writing Terry at ReefCentral.com, he heads up the Advanced Aquarist online magazine there... or search through a hobby clubs library, or even a large (college or central) library to see if the original is in their collection. Bob Fenner> MACO course Date: Sun, 13 Jul 2003 22:10:23 -0700 Hi Bob, This is Bill from Reefs.org and MACO. I am emailing you just to say "hi" and to let you know that you are still on our radar for your Fall course at MACO. Spring courses were very successful. Summer courses are going as we speak, they look like they will not be exceptions to the successes of MACO, so we are very excite about the fall session. In the coming weeks I will start emailing you to get both of us up to speed for the Fall session. <Thank you for the heads up> Please, let me know if you need anything or have questions that need to be answered. If nothing is on your mind, please, reply to this email anyways to let us know that you are alive and well. Thanks Bob. <Real good Bill. Am a bit out of it (just back from Malaysia). Do keep me abreast of what we need to get going. Bob F> Bill Grimlan Reefs.org Administrator MACO Administrator
African Grey Hi, <Squawk> Do you know if it is okay to be feeding my African Grey parrot plantains? I have tried feeding it to him a few times and he seems to like it very much, whereas when I feed him basic aquarium fare, he sometimes seems to get an upset crop/stomach? I would be very grateful for a response. <The periodic feeding of cooking bananas (and other types) is fine with most all parrots. Bob Fenner> Communism on Reef Central From Dr. Ron's Forum "I am a certifiable cranky old guy and my patience with wacky ideas has worn pretty thin over the years. My answers are not off the cuff, but are based on over 30 years of experience as a marine ecologist/invertebrate zoologist. You may not agree with them, and if not, we can discuss why, but this is not a debating society. If you get strident or abusive, I will close the thread and ban you from the forum." How can he ban people ? Does this mean if we disagree with him we get banned because he is cranky and because his "patience has grown thin" ? We can't debate ? Is this guy Nuts? <Umm, I'd guess that the chatforum which is ReefCentral, being a private concern, and paying/trusting Ron Shimek as a "moderator"(?) has vouchsafe given him authority to do the above... Does seem wacky (IMO). Have had occasion to chat with Ron and he always seems reasonable, personable... have heard of other people being ousted though... am totally against practices of "barring" people, "locking" threads on hobbyist forums... Am hopeful instead that contributors can/will be civil, positive given the opportunity. Bob Fenner> Saltwater video Bob, <Klaus> Let me refresh your memory. I'm the person who e-mailed you several times in regards to making a Saltwater aquarium video. <Yes, I recall> It's been a long time since I wrote you, but business has been great. I was barely able to finish the video work I had, so tackling another project would have been crazy. But, the summer traditionally brings less work. I am still very interested and have several more people interested in getting involved (from the production and marketing end). I just saw that you responded to me that you got some ideas from a visit to Vegas. I don't know how long ago you responded, but hopefully you can remember. I look forward to hearing from you. <Yes. A vendor had a booth with a fabulous software showing stills and video of underwater life in the Caribbean... on a DVD. Bob Fenner> Klaus Henke Elatica Productions, Inc. 847-707-2827 klaus@elatica.com www.elatica.com and .net Yahoo grp on saltwater fish and reef aquariums Thanks for your info on the vitamins. I love your book "The Conscientious Marine Aquarist". I don't read that fast so I am still reading. I also belong to a group called http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Saltwater_Fish_and_Reef_Aquariums/ Hopefully, and it would be really great if you popped in and gave some advice from time to time. if at all possible. I learn a lot there also, and the owner Kevin seams to really know his tuff. Well talk to ya later, Tim. <Thank you for the link. Will check out. Bob Fenner>
Re: Marine Tropicals/T-shirts Bob at WetWebMedia, Thank you for your considerate response and interest in the offer of these uniquely detailed and colorful T's @ the very low cost of $4.00 ea. Following is some pertinent info. regarding the shirts and availability. The minimum order @ $4.00 ea. would be 2 dz.(24 pieces) total order. Any combination of designs/sizes is ok. At this price, I am, unfortunately, not able to fulfill orders of less than 2 dz. shirts, which would total $96.00 plus shipping. There are, in fact, 4 designs available (as shown in attachment). The shirts feature full front prints w/ no back prints. The T's are all 100% cotton heavyweight white shirts and are either Oneitas or Hanes Beefys. Available designs/quantities, at this writing, are as follows:
Available quantities are subject to change. Please contact me with any further questions you may have. I look forward to hearing from you. Thanks again & Best Wishes, Glen R. Smith / Triggerfish 255 Shrader / Suite 6 San Francisco, CA 94117 e-mail - Tfish954@aol.com <Real good Glen. Will ad to your post. Bob Fenner> Ocean Features, Secondary Ed. Hello, My name is Chantal Engell and I am a freshman at Annville-Cleona High School in Annville, Pennsylvania. I am doing a project for my Gifted class on the ocean and I was wondering if it would be at all possible to have a monthly email correspondence on different features of the ocean. <Mmm, what do you have in mind? You're welcome to use the materials archived on our root web: www.WetWebMedia.com for curricula. Bob Fenner> That would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Sincerely, Chantal Engell Banned By Ron Bob, Can you believe that Ron Shimek sent me a private message from Reef Central ? (see below, I am sooooo honored) I told him that most of what he stated in his paper on 4 year breakdown was rubbish since 30 or 50 or even 100 tanks do not statistically represent a "typical" tank, especially when no controls are set up for the way the tanks are run. I guess I hurt poor Ron's feelings since he says he will ban me from Reef Central if I don't apologize to him publicly. I do not really spend a lot of time there so C'est la vi. <Asi es la vida> I am not planning to apologize.....I guess he got upset since I asked him if he was involved in any "miracle salt" concoctions coming to market in the near future...... <Apologize? Ha!> Hee Heee Heeeeeeee <Couldn't have keyed it better> Chuck Spyropulos [quote] R.Shimek wrote on 10/29/2002 07:36 PM: Chuck, The final statements in your recent post were both offensive and insulting. Unless I get a public apology, I will ban you from Reef Central. [/quote] <I detest censorship in all forms. Bob Fenner> Re: Banned By Ron Hey Bob, I am officially banned from Dr. Ron's fiefdom. I tried to log on to his forum again and I am locked out. If I want to I can always register under another e-mail but I don't think I will bother. <Ridiculous... hard to believe... banned? What does he think he's doing... censoring other opinions? Very bad P.R.> Oh well...more time to spend admiring my tank... and of course more time to spend on WetWeb, reefs.org, etc. Chuck Spyropulos <I guess... but still ludicrous, shocking... shameful... what's next, the Jews, Gypsies? Bob Fenner> Re: Saltwater Aquarium Video Mr. Bob Fenner, Thank you for your quick response. I'm deciding my next move based on your input. I look forward to hearing from some of your Compadres. I've clicked on some of the ads on your site. It has given me a lot to work with. Thanks again, and I'll keep you updated on my progress. <We're just back from Vegas and the DEMA show (Dive Equipment Manufacturers Association)... many new ideas in the way of videos (content and format)... Be chatting, Bob Fenner> Klaus Henke Elatica Productions, Inc. 847-707-2827 klaus@elatica.com www.elatica.com and .net Chuck Spyropulos and Reef Central Hi Bob, Anthony, and Crew, <Howdy> I was reading through the dailies and read of Chuck Spyropulos' problem with "Dr." Shi*mek. If you will, please forward my e-mail address to him. As a member, I'd like to start a thread letting other reefers know of this and have their opinions voiced as well. This is absolutely ridiculous <the situation, and a lot of what Dr. Shi*mek has said about various things>. If he's interested in having me start the thread, I am more than willing. I personally can't stand Shi*meek but would try to start the thread in an unbiased way. <We don't retain others email addresses... Maybe you can search/find the "conversation" they had on ReefCentral?> On a side note, thanks for everything you all have done for the hobby. <A pleasure, honor/duty. Bob Fenner> Blue skies, Robert Chuck Spyropulos and Reef Central Ron Shimek censorship and outrageous behavior Chuck Spyropulos banned on Reef Central Hi Bob, Anthony, and Crew, <cheers, my friend. Anthony Calfo this time. Bob has indeed been very candid on the subject and I thought to share my support and agreement> I was reading through the dailies and read of Chuck Spyropulos' problem with "Dr." Shimek. <Ron's behavior is unfortunate, staggering and unexplainable. Chuck's only flaring remark at the end as a jab (which could even have been diplomatically rephrased and really called Dr Ron to the mat) was only minutely instigating compared to the tremendously disrespectful and arrogant things Dr Ron has said in the past to more than a few other people... enough of which I have regrettably borne personal witness too. At a MACNA I heard him call a perfect stranger at a sand bed workshop "stupid" with a harsh tone that made some people uncomfortable enough to promptly stand up and leave his presentation. Recently in a flaming banter on Reef Central with chemist Randy Holmes-Farley he called Randy "boy" at one point with extraordinary disrespect (I don't see any reason to call another man that let alone an academic peer "boy" when you would hope he would never speak as unkind to you). And Ron later insulted Mr Holmes-Farley by saying quote], "You sound like the old farmer who, after drinking some beer, added some self-generated liquid fertilizer [pissed on] to his garden and thinks his tomatoes are bigger." (page 4 of the thread, "Its still in the water"). We could go on for days if aquarists wrote in with stories of Dr Ron's insulting legacy. Its quite disappointing for very intelligent he is otherwise and the knowledge he could share with a gentler tone... or at least a smaller ego. I'm trying to politely tune him out with personal hope that he will temper his ways. What Ron did is censorship and inappropriate by any intelligent rationale that I can discern. So Chuck voiced a concern that Ron's proposal of this controversial, if not ludicrous, claim of sea salt toxicity was tied to some profit motivated agenda. Guess what... join the club! Many aquarists have been wondering that very same thing in the face of his outrageous claims despite the fact that public aquariums and aquarists have been keeping fishes well past their natural lifespan in synthetic seawater(26 year old blue regal tangs, 32 year old Clownfishes, and I think a 60+ year old tarpon in Illinois!!! and we've heard of far more impressive stories)... corals spawning and living decades inland, fishes spawning, etc. We just don't buy the toxic salt theory, or telling people to tear down their tanks after 4 years, or to keep their reefs at 86F (!!!), and so on. Chuck's challenge of Ron's theory was not a personal affront but simply attempts at discovery. If Ron wants to ban Chuck for his conduct... how about censoring himself?> If you will, please forward my e-mail address to him. <we will post this message as we do all correspondence here at WWM (no censorship here!). I regret that we did not save Chuck's e-mail addy.. we do not save addys either <G>. Heehee... so: no spam or censorship:) > As a member, I'd like to start a thread letting other reefers know of this and have their opinions voiced as well. This is absolutely ridiculous <<the situation, and a lot of what Dr. Shi*mek has said about various things>>. <complete agreement here> If he's interested in having me start the thread I am more than willing. <excellent... it may be appropriate to politely voice your concern to the administration. Do consider contacting them directly first.> On a side note, thanks for everything you all have done for the hobby. <with kind regards for your appreciation> Blue skies, Robert foxracrusa@cox.net <all the best, Anthony> <<Geez... I almost thought folks were pulling my leg/fins... "banning"? But of all incidents, Barry Neigut is visiting (of ClamsDirect.com), and he related his experience of being banned from ReefCentral... what gives? Will post... Bob F>> Reefland.com News <Thank you, Bob Fenner> Good day bobfenner! Here are some things happening around our community! MACNA XV will be held in our backyard and hosted by the Louisville Marine Aquarium Society (http://www.lmas.org). This will be Reefland's first MACNA and I hope to see my virtual friends there! For More details regarding MACNA XV, visit the LMAS homepage or this thread: http://reefland.com/forum/showthread.php?&threadid=8125 Our Sponsors continue to offer some special deals to Reefland members located in our Coral Reef Treasures Forum located at http://reefland.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?&forumid=51. Ocean Encounter is offering 175 Watt 10,000 K Ushio Metal Halide Bulb for $59.00. Coral Fragz is offering a free bag of Chaetomorpha algae w/ $50+ purchase. Clams Direct is offering free boxes and handling for RL members; a $12.00 savings! These are some great deals being offered for you! Be sure to support our sponsors who make Reefland.com possible. http://www.reefland.com/sponsors.shtml Do you enjoy looking at reef pictures as much as I? Here are some links for you to check out: A "Flashy" display: http://www.reefland.com/RL.html SPS Corals: http://www.reefland.com/forum/showthread.php?&threadid=7933 Some General Eye Candy: http://www.reefland.com/forum/showthread.php?&threadid=8129 We hope you enjoy your stay at Reefland.com. Web Site Community for Aquarium Hobbyists Dedicated to Supporting the Aquarium Hobby <...> <Interesting advert., but what a slow-loading site. Thanks for sending this along. Will post to our Business Links. Bob Fenner> AquariaDepot.com AquariumReference.org AquariaSearch.com AquariaPromotions.com QuesTronixSoftware.com Who Is Virtual Marine Enterprises, Inc. This e-mail is being sent to you as an introduction to our company and our services. We are sending you this e-mail because we believe that you may be interested in the aquarium hobby or other services that we offer. This is a one-time mailing and we will not be sending you e-mail continuously (we all get enough junk e-mail already). If you would like to make sure that you never receive e-mails from us, simply click the link at the bottom of this e-mail. Virtual Marine Enterprises, Inc. owns and operates a community of websites <And an e-tailer site> that are dedicated to supporting and promoting the aquarium hobby. Each website has a unique purpose and together they form the vmarine.com community. Although our websites are targeted towards aquarium hobbyists; scuba divers, educators, researchers, conservationists, and anyone else who has an interest in all things aquatic, will find our websites useful as well. AquariaDepot.com Since 1999 AquariaDepot.com has been providing hobbyists with quality aquarium products at discount prices. With an inventory of over 5000 unique products we have everything you need for your aquarium, whether its freshwater, marine or reef. AquariumReference.org AquariumReference.org provides necessary information on the identification, behavior and care of the animals we keep in our aquariums (and many we don't). AquariumReference.org has an online species database with information on over 6000 fish and invertebrates. AquariaSearch.com AquariaSearch.com offers one of the largest and fastest growing online directories devoted to aquatic related websites. If you are interested in Aquarium Keeping, Aquatic Animals, Conservation, Scuba Diving, Tropical Travel or Underwater Photography then AquariaSearch.com is for you. AquariaPromotions.com AquariaPromotions.com offers free banner advertising to aquarium related websites. If you have a website that would be of interest to aquarium hobbyists and are looking for ways to promote it then visit AquariaPromotions.com. QuesTronixSoftware.com Virtual Marine Enterprises, Inc. has partnered with QuesTronix Software to help provide quality website design and development to the aquarium and related industries. With over 15 years experience in computer software design and development QuesTronix Software is able to fulfill the requirements of any project. Re: Web Site Community for Aquarium Hobbyists Virtual Marine Enterprises, Inc. (vmarine.com) - Press Release Robert, Thank you for your interest in our websites. Which site was "slow"? <Aquaria. Depot, and your ref. site... didn't look at others> Could you tell me your modem speed? <Cable> I am very concerned when I hear a comment like this and will do whatever I can to correct it (I am also the web developer). <Appreciate this. Bob Fenner, WetWebMedia.com> Cliff Dugan President Virtual Marine Enterprises, Inc. cliffdugan@vmarine.com Mermaid Sculptures for sale I have really enjoyed your informative web site. Since you like saltwater fishes I thought that you might enjoy seeing my woodcarving creations at my website www.worldofwoodcarving.com <Very nice. I like the Rexazour even better. Perhaps sometime you'll do marine life. Bob Fenner> Regards Randy Crumbliss New WWM title? <G> A note back to you and Steve re: the SD visit... an offer to take you to our fave sushi bar, Meiki's... it is fabulous... <Yes... please! And lets look up Ken Wong at some point to share sushi/fellowship. He mentioned for us to drop a line when we visit> <<For sure. We can, likely will meet up with him, Jason Kim and if you boyz behave (doubtful) their fab consorts>> A pledge to show you about parts of the trade. Todd.G of Custom Aquatic would like to meet you; sells lots of your book/s... and Pat.H of Aq. Whse needs to meet you re same... <looking forward to it> And a query, suggestion to you and Steve re co-writing a title on "(The Best) Marine Fishes for (Marine/Reef) Aquariums"... before BSV, TLS/F come out with some such title... I say we produce not unlike your spiral bound edition... What say you/s? Bob F> <that sounds awesome! Have already chatted excitedly with Steve about it today... we'll meet soon to brain storm and try to get on the same page... will run ideas/vision by you for sharing/input. A book on this topic would be quite useful especially if it was affordable. <<You will hopefully see that it is all these. I have an outline, start of chapters that will greatly improve with you and Steve's input. Can send along e wise or USPO if you'd like.>> I'm reminded of Helmut Debelius' "Fishes for the Invertebrate Aquarium" from more than a few years ago. A great little book!!! Also thinking of elements of The Tetra "Marine Aquarium" book from Dick Mills... packed with great info/pics but not too much to be too pricey or daunting for beginners. Perhaps we'll have an outline for the SD trip. Will you have interest/time to handle the layout/publishing/editing decisions (photos were a given <G>)? Thanks, bud... Antoine> <<Let's start (and finish!) this project ASAP! A great follow-up with your marketing efforts with your current title. Will split the big moolah evenly with you two. Bob F> Re: New WWM title? <G> <<You will hopefully see that it is all these. I have an outline, start of chapters that will greatly improve with you and Steve's input. Can send along e wise or USPO if you'd like.>> Yowsa...yes, please!. I did not realize that the seed had sprouted already beyond the thought. Electronic or hard copy (we both have cable lines now... do send your preference). <Okay... will send on CD to your res. Just tried to attach what I have and it's too big... Question, do you use Adobe's PageMaker? This is the layout software my stuff is on/in right now.> We can chew on it and all get onto the same page very soon I hope with the outline. Three writer's on one book... very cool. Could we have this ready for year's end release? <Knowing you, it could be done by next month!> I'm thinking heck ya! I'm actually a little ahead of myself on volume 2 of my BOCP (had promised early 2003). Looking like maybe I have time for both here :) <Agreed> Will you be providing further content, Bob? Are you leaving the bulk of it to us? <Will do either as you and Steve wish. Would like to contribute as much as wanted, warranted.> Just give us some direction and lets run with it! Antoine <CD on the way. Do you need/want PM? Bob F> Re: New WWM title? <G> Okay... will send on CD to your res. Just tried to attach what I have and it's too big... Question, do you use Adobe's PageMaker? <Yessuh... I have Adobe 6.5 from you... although I haven't learned/taught myself to work in it yet. Do you actually write in PageMaker or do you paste your content into it?> <Write AND paste... can import files, place pix... takes some getting used to... Did you use Quark/xpress or what for your Coral book? Do you mind taking on learning PM6.5? It's not too hard... well, it was for me when putting "booklets" together, but we do have some real help now (Zo and Jas)> This is the layout software my stuff is on/in right now. <I really need to learn this software indeed> <<Will you be providing further content, Bob? Are you leaving the bulk of it to us?>> Will do either as you and Steve wish. Would like to contribute as much as wanted, warranted. <O-tay! Lets gander at the outline...chaw on it... see what we can manage... float it back and forth... and yes... let us finish this ASAP :)> <thanks, bud... Antoine> <Thank you my friends. CD in the mail today. Bob F> Re: New WWM title? <G> > <Write AND paste... can import files, place pix... > takes some getting used > to... Did you use Quark/xpress or what for your > Coral book? Do you mind > taking on learning PM6.5? It's not too hard... well, > it was for me when putting "booklets" together, but we do have some real help now (Zo and Jas)> For my book, I tried to jump on the learning curve when you first gave me PM but found it a little rough at first. For the sake of time... I ultimately paid to have it postscripted. A friend of mine is a regional big-wig for Kinko's. She acted like a project manager and coordinated the offset printer and binding/collating for me. I sure don't mind trying to learn PM... it will be a great favor/help to myself as I will need it if I continue to write for any industry. Still... I am 3/4 finished with a non-aquariology book...1/2 finished with my second volume and now with this... no regrets to learn PM, but will drop it and pay to have someone else postscript it again if it helps me to get all three titles out near Christmas. <No need to rush; there is time> I need to take another look at PM and determine a comfort level. Will be seeking advice surely... Shirley... er, Bob. <Okay, even to call me surely. Bob F> Ciao, bub Re: Albuquerque club 2? Hi Bob, Seems like you guys have got things sorted out again? <Don't know what you're referring to> ><Please see here: http://www.tomgriffin.com/FAAS/index.html> Found their webpage, but it only "worked" with the index off, but I have no idea who to contact there. Any ideas? <See Chuck Davis' articles in AFM: He is very familiar with clubs, clubs of clubs in the field> Otherwise I'll just write a general email saying I want to start a club and maybe the right person will respond. <I would definitely try this> >Thanks for your help in (maybe) starting our group! ><Help is available. Be chatting. Bob Fenner> I meant. Thank you for your help in starting our maybe group. Gotta find some aquarists out here first!! Thanks again. <Or recruit people who want to (whether they're aware of it now or not) become aquarists. Do contact the LFS owners/managers with your thoughts, desires, maybe a freshwater club in the area re "how they do/did it". Bob Fenner> --des/Jane desert fish lady Airs Saturday, April 27 11:30 a.m. <Great! Thanks for this Rob. Will post to WWM. Bob Fenner> National Geographic's show on the tropical fish industry is being aired tomorrow!!! ERI International o ><)))))))o> o <o(((((((>< Here's the program reminder you requested from the National Geographic Channel: Sea Stories Fishy Business Thanks for watching! For more information, visit http://www.nationalgeographic.com/TV/channel New Website? Mr. Fenner, Hello Bob how are you?, I have been looking for you. I would like to use some of your articles on a web site I will be launching in the next couple of months and would very much like to talk with you about writing for our site. Please email me back with a phone number in which to contact you. If this is not Bob Fenner please disregard this note. Sincerely, Rick Acero <Is there a description, beginning of your proposed site I might look at? An overall "mission statement"? Let's chat this over the Net for now. Bob Fenner, just back from a month of diving, and way behind> eReefTank.com >Hi there, >My name is Cary Kletter and I founded www.eReefTank.com >eReefTank.com is a reef aquarium information site with articles, >photos, links a message board and more. We currently get over 2,200 >page views per day. <Not bad... WWM has about 10,000/d> March 2002 has been or best month to date. We >recently redesigned the site and are looking for advertisers. <Miguel, you lazy mon! Take a look at these folks ad offers, advertisers... Some good ideas, some funky, hard to read pages...> >All sponsors get free of charge a link on our Links page, a link on >our yahoo club links page, a paragraph of text and a link on our >Discounts page, and if you want to submit any photos or articles, a >free banner ad for six months on that photo or text page when it is >posted on the site. >Ad Option one is to put a banner ad and a link on 12 individual >photo pages for one year at $5 per page per month ($600 for the >year). If you order that before March 15, 2002. >Option two is a banner ad on our homepage for $75 per month ($900 >per year). >Option three is a banner ad on a premium page (Links Page, Articles >Page, Photos Page, etc.) for $50 per month ($600 per year). >All advertisers get two additional months free if they sign up by >March 15, 2002. Any other advertising desired can be customized to >fit your needs. All payments are in advance. Payment in product is >acceptable with approval. >Thank you for your consideration. >Cary Kletter >eReefTank.com <And an article by Anthony.C! Who could ask for more. Bob F> <And an article by Anthony.C! Who could ask for more. Bob F> Us. grins, Zo <Touché turtle. Bob> RE: eReefTank.com I do believe I hear the whip cracking... to work, to work! <VBG> Antoine <You betcha! Wish there was time to have as many of you come out and have fun refurb/ing a rental... or to go to Australia with. Bob> Re: Fwd: eReefTank.com Bob, I got about 10 e-mails from this guy in the past week begging me to send him some sponsor/advertisers for his website. I told him it's hard enough for me to get a response from potential advertisers. Mike <What a crack-up. Bob> malawicichlidhomepage.com, re site update Congratulations a work well done, keep up the good work. Wonder if you are going to the Interzoo in May? Would be nice to meet up with you if so. Peter C at Wet Web Media. <Outstanding. See you there Pete. Bob F need advice Hey Bob, Well - I'm throwing in the towel, sort of. As feared, the pay site just isn't getting it - so what the heck, it's now a free site. The number of new members coming in has slowed to basically nothing at this point, but my other site (a free picture/ID site) has gotten over 1000 unique visitors in 10 days. <Wow! This is a very strong showing. Congrats> So, I guess I'll try the sponsor/advert route just to keep them both up and running permanently. It's hard to figure people out sometimes - of the folks that have used it, I've had a good number e-mail me to tell me how much they've gotten out of it, and not one complaint about paying for it either. But, as I'd already told you, we just didn't get the traffic I expected. Oh well, had to try - and at least I didn't lose my ass on it. <Yes, a good, workable philosophy> So, now I've got to figure out how to get some ads. Got any advise on how to go about it? <If you build it... they will come is my best bit. Bob F> Cheers, j James W. Fatherree, M.S. new site Good Morning Bob, <Howdy> Well I'm back from a couple of holiday weeks back home in Jackson, MS. Glad to get back to where the lows are in the 40's instead of the 20's. <Brrr!> Over the last couple of months I've been scanning my slides and saving them to CD's, so I went ahead and made a site to put them on the net too. <Yes, saw it. A good start... many subscribers yet?> Here's one category that I doubt anyone I know could appreciate more than you - so be sure to take a minute and check it out: http://www.picsbase.com/james/default.asp?TopID=2&SubID=1&CatID=4 1000 down and about 4000 to go (plus 2000 prints). Yikes - <See what I do... generally for hours a day?> As always, hope things are going well out West. I start teaching again on Monday, so it's back to getting up at a normal time and shaving everyday, etc. I'm actually ready to get going again though - been sitting at this keyboard way too much for the last 6 months! <I hear you. Hope to run into you soon. Bob Fenner> Cheers, j James W. Fatherree Re: new site Hey again, The pics site is a new one that is just pictures - free as can be. If you didn't look, the link I sent is for all of my pics from the Tsukiji fish market in Tokyo - one of my favorite parts of the whole trip. <Have been there.... verrry early in the AM when the Blues are being sold/batered for high stakes/steaks... the link wouldn't come up though> As for the aquarium pay site - mixed results. I good portion of the people that check it out have signed up, but I'm really surprised at how few hits we've had from the magazines. I ran an ad in FAMA and one in TFH but I've had almost as many people find it through search engines and when I just put the address at the end of my column in italics. No more ads! <Wowzah... maybe if the ads ran longer?> It's been up and running for about ten weeks now and is about halfway to paying for itself (the webmaster and a slide scanner and my time). <Wow! We have free most everything labor-wise, a spiffy scanner (Nikon ED4000)... and spend our ad revenue mainly on travel... the Interzoo coming up and a dive jaunt to the Red Sea will be about it for the half year...> So, we'll have to see what happens in another 10 or 20. There's no advertisements on it at this point, but if it doesn't build up over the next year I may just make it free and look for some advertisers. I got a great deal on the server space, so the whole thing costs next to nothing to keep it up and running. <Ours is just shy of forty dollars a month for 200 megs of server space (hosted by datapipe.com... great service, folks... lots of speed, and rarely down time... and no charge for bandwidth (as of yet) thank goodness... as we "take-up" several weeks worth every week...)> As many hits as you have, ever given any thoughts to charging a fee? With a well established site like yours, you could start charging next to nothing (like a measly $1 a year) and make a heck of a lot of extra money. <Don't know... we've chatted this over only a bit... better for the intended purposes (increase hobbyist awareness, proficiency, like to love of the hobby... and business: hobbyist involvement, retention) to just have sponsors... This is fine for us for now... We have an "image" site in the works... to place stills, I hope video (sooner rather than not)... for sale/lease... WetWebFotos... hoping this will help the young fellow producing the software, generate more revenue (yes, to go diving, traveling, photographing even more!). We'll see> Reliable information certainly has value, and I've had a ton of positive feedback from members about how pleased they are to find so much in one place instead of surfing for hours and jumping all 'round the net (which is why I made the thing in the first place). Just a thought. <I appreciate your help, input. Be chatting James. Bob Fenner> Cheers, James W. Fatherree Re: new site One More, <Okay> As usual, there seems to always be some problem when starting up new sites. That address works fine for me, but maybe it's because I'm logged into the server directly. You're the first person I've given the full address to a particular page too. Please do me a favor and try going to: www.picsbase.com/james - then click on Travel, then Japan, then Tsukiji F. M., at the bottom of the list. If that doesn't get you there, then something is really wrong. <Looks like you got the whole gamut in> Thanks for the time, j P.S. I never looked into getting ads on the site - am I grossly underestimating how much they pay? (trips to Interzoo, Red Sea, etc.) <Most ad schemes on the net, and all the ones I know of re our interests pay poorly... We just save up> P.S.S. It may be time to shop around for servers - I'm no expert, but my brother is and knows how to surf for deals like no other. Our site is on ntidesign.com which gives us 99.9% uptime guaranteed, 500 megs, for $100 year. Might want to check them out. <Man, that IS cheap! Thanks for this. Bob Fenner> P.S.S.S. Gone to lunch - chat with you later James W. Fatherree Re: Daily Fish Email out WWM Great concept of a daily email from your web site. I hope you have some medicinal antipoison oak herbs in your food tonight. <Heard re your (and others) tangle w/ Poison Ivy (no thx, have had too many exposures... can even smell it... as in last Friedday). If worse comes to... do consider the anabolic steroid route... not to be done injudiciously (is this a word?), but can secure from a friendly vet (woof!) or knowing the concentration et al., vamos al sur (TJ). Hope to see you this eve. Bob/DogF> TL&C, t (thanks for checking in with zooman mike - it'd be fun to see you guys connect for the first time, you'd have so many stories to share) <Oh, am looking forward to more adventures all the way about. Do think we might expand the online media biz's to include him, you even. DF> Re: well (ZooWeb.com?) Hi Bob, Mike Kobert here (zoomanmike). Great to meet you. Tony, Kelly and I were have drinks (seems to be the norm for us) <Yikes, us all as well> the other night and Tony had mentioned that he might be joining you an adventure to Fiji soon. Sounds like great fun. I hope Tony's PADI card gets here in time. Tony also mentioned that you had a web site where you were featuring your work (photographic) on fish. Would love to see what you have. <The URL: www.WetWebMedia.com, and we are working on a server/system to allow automated credit card sales of images, WetWebFotos> He said that it numbered in the thousands of images. Very cool. What is the address of the site? I would like to check it out. I see from the message included below that he has mentioned my work to you. Is this something that you would be interested in talking about over that beer he also mentioned? <Always. Do you have images of animals as in zoos? Mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians...? My undergrad. degree is/was Zoology.> If so let me know. It would be great to meet you in person and swap adventure stories sometime! <Indeed... and we have many good friends who are in, have related interests (adventure travel, photography/videography...), and irregular get-togethers to chat over, show what we've been doing. You're welcome to join in those if you'd like.> Look forward to hearing from you. Mike <Will save your email address to invite you over... otherwise if you'd like, let's chat up what we both do, see if there's some way of helping each other. Bob Fenner> Re: well Bob, sounds great. Home phone is 858-273-0975. I have many zoo and wild images. Have not done a lot of work in the past five years but if there is a market I am sure that my skills are still there. Been wanting to go shoot lately and this may just be the spark that I need to get this rolling again. <Good to know oneself... do agree, trips out, new experiences very valuable for "whacking on side of head" stimulus, motivation> In the 80's I did a few gallery things and in 96 I hung a bunch of stuff at the North County Fair Nordstrom's. I have sold a few images for magazines and books as well as art for peoples walls. Never really sold enough to quit an do this full time. I heard too many times from people at my shows "I could shoot that, I have a nice camera...". Seemed to be a theme after a while...if they only knew what it took... <Yes... have done more than my share of carrying long focal length lenses about, bug bites galore, chased by animals I should run from, lack of showers/food/sleep...> Anyway, lets get together sometime soon. I would also like to meet your group. Sounds like it would be fun. All the best, Mike <Yes... will call. Hope to "infect" another friend, Dave Lathrup/Dorkasaurus, also a Hasher into starting a "Dave'sDinos.com" sort of site... Do wish there was time to do... maybe there is, tonight... Am cooking some of the meal for a HHH event/bday party for Fri. eve... and Mike.K (friend, hasher, web design type) is coming over for dinner, chatting up our ongoing projects... including Di's upcoming e-biz's... Could at least say hello, socialize, perhaps brainstorm a bit... and Tonester and Kelly are welcome... Let me know if you can make it on such short notice (we live in Mira Mesa)... and I'll put out a few more plates, contact Dork... and either of us TLC/NA, Bob Fenner> |
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