Ed,

Thanks for the kind words. A few years ago I returned from Alaska after spending close to four years in the Bering Sea. I collected data aboard fishing boats for the federal government. My faith was tested in every way with regard to federally managed natural resources and I was feeling pretty dismal about it. I was having a hard time digesting the complex nature of resource management with regard to government, stake holders, shareholders ( the public ), media and those of us who risked our lives to insure a future for Alaskan fisheries. I was still feeling down about the whole thing till I was asked to give a couple of reptile and amphibian presentations to kids. I did not have many animals to show and my presentation was far from perfect. The kids loved it though and I think I had as much fun as they did, maybe more. It was a pivotal time for me and basically it helped to turn my thinking around. I was offered a small sum for my services and I just asked them to use the money to purchase books for the kids. It felt really good. I am not just looking out for myself, I want those kids to have the same opportunity to enjoy the natural world that I have had. Lets all help each other out.

Thanks,

Dan.

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