Rob,

I understand. I think the one thing I've learned from all of this is that it is VERY likely that MOST (maybe 99.99%?) newspaper articles, TV news pieces, magazine articles, etc. on ANY subject has factual errors. So while I understand that you feel targeted by this, I hope you understand that it is probably beyond the scope of python news stories. It's probably happening in everything we read, hear, or see in the media. To combat this, I've started seeking alternative points of view on subjects I'm interested in. For example, I listen to NPR a lot but I wanted to hear real criticisms of the health care bill because I knew NPR would sugar coat it. So I listened to Rush Limbaugh and Glenn Beck to see what they had to say. That's the same reason I read posts here... I want to see what "the other side" (poor choice of words in this case because I don't think we disagree about the legislation) has to say about pythons. I think this is something we should all make a habit of doing when a subject interests us or affects. Just my two cents.

In regard to the story... I would feel a little out of place calling the reporter and explaining the confusion because I barely spoke with him. Though, if he were to ask me about it I would explain why it sounds a little misleading. The thing is... IF they printed a correction it would be hidden somewhere in the paper where nobody reads it and I think the damage is already done. And I don't think the reporter tried to make it sound that way... I think he probably doesn't understand the impact of what he said. And, really, I think the average American just sees the picture of the snake, says "whoa... that's in Florida?... I don't like it." and then goes on to the next story... especially folks in Miami. There are seriously people here who don't even know the Everglades exist.

Again, I can't discuss much about the statistics other than what was already presented. But if you want to know exactly how Frank presented that info you can find an audio recording of the testimony online.

Also, for those who are curious, the paper is done with the internal peer review and has been submitted to the journal. The journal has agreed to give us an expedited review in light of the current political situation so with any luck it will be out very soon!

Mike

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