#june lake okeechobee

[jthurlow]

Continue to Call Out the Bad Actors-Toxic Lake Okeechobee

[weather-usa]

Climate of Florida

Florida's climate is indeed quite diverse, with distinct tropical and subtropical regions. The delineation between these regions is marked by a west-east line from Bradenton along the south shore of Lake Okeechobee to Vero Beach. South of this line lies the tropical zone, characterized by warmer temperatures and lush vegetation, while north of it, the state transitions into a subtropical climate.

See Weather Forecast for Florida today: https://weatherusa.app/florida

Summers are consistently warm throughout Florida, with temperatures averaging in the 80s °F (27 to 29 °C). However, even in Miami, freezing temperatures can occur, albeit rarely and of short duration. The Keys, due to their southernmost location, have never experienced frost.

Rainfall patterns in Florida are heavily influenced by the summer months, with the heaviest precipitation occurring during this time. The average annual rainfall varies from around 40 inches (1,000 mm) in Key West to 62 inches (1,575 mm) in West Palm Beach. Snowfall is infrequent but can occur in northern areas, with reports extending as far south as Miami. See more: https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-32978

The west coast of Florida is particularly susceptible to lightning strikes during the summer, while hurricanes pose a recurring threat to the state, with about one striking annually on average. The hurricane season spans from June to November, with September being the most likely month for hurricanes to occur. Notable hurricanes in Florida's history include the devastating Great Hurricane of 1928 and Hurricane Andrew in 1992.

Average annual temperatures in Florida exhibit minimal variation, ranging from around 68 °F (20 °C) in Tallahassee in the north to 77 °F (25 °C) in Key West in the south. Monthly averages in January range from the mid-40s °F (6 to 8 °C) in the north to the mid-50s °F (12 to 14 °C) in the south, while August sees temperatures in the lower 80s °F (27 to 29 °C). These consistent temperatures contribute to Florida's appeal as a year-round destination for tourists and residents alike.

See more: https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-32931

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-32816

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-32927

Florida boasts a remarkable diversity of plant and animal life, owing to its rich array of ecosystems and favorable climate. The state is home to thousands of plant species, including several hundred trees, many of which thrive in its extensive forested areas covering approximately half of its territory.

In Florida's forests, dominant tree species include pines, oaks, cypresses, palms, and mangroves, with tropical trees flourishing in the southern regions and temperate varieties such as beech, red maple, sweet gum, tulip (yellow poplar), magnolia, and hickory being common in the north. Nearly half of the tree species found in the United States can be found in Florida.

See more: https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-32814 The state's vegetation varies according to soil type, with different plant communities thriving in different regions. For example, flatwood lowland areas are characterized by slash and longleaf pine, oak, sabal palm, and grasses, while organic soils support sawgrass, cypress, sabal palm, myrtle, willow, elderberry, and gum. In limestone regions, grasses, saw palmettos, and sabal palms predominate, with cypress, bay, and gumbo-limbo trees being characteristic of extreme southern areas. Northern upland soils support hardwoods like loblolly and longleaf pine.

Florida's diverse habitats support a vast and varied wildlife population, including rare and protected species such as crocodiles, manatees, and the Florida panther. The state is home to around 100 species of mammals, including deer, pumas, bobcats, black bears, armadillos, otters, mink, and gray foxes, alongside numerous smaller animals. Manatees are commonly found along the coast and in warm inland waters, while various species of porpoises and dolphins inhabit the coastal waters. See more: https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-32735

Over 400 species and subspecies of birds have been documented in Florida, including land birds such as turkeys, quail, eagles, and hawks, as well as aquatic species like gulls, pelicans, and ospreys. Freshwater and marsh regions are home to birds such as ducks, geese, egrets, herons, and ibises. The state's reptile population includes the iconic alligator, along with more than 40 species of snakes, turtles, tortoises, lizards, and frogs.

Florida's extensive waterways harbor hundreds of species of fish and shellfish, including saltwater varieties like bluefish, snappers, groupers, and shellfish such as crawfish, oysters, crabs, clams, and shrimp. Freshwater species include the largemouth black bass, bream, sunfish, speckled perch, and catfish. Overall, Florida's biodiversity and abundance of wildlife contribute significantly to its ecological importance and its appeal to nature enthusiasts.

See more: https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-32733

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-32708

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-32328

[mapsbyw]

[changesinattitudes]

Better Late Than Never

June 6, 2023

 After a marathon two-day run, on Tuesday May 23, 2023 at 8:19 PM we tied Changes in Attitudes to our dock behind our house. The voyage was over.

We left Harborage Marina as planned at 5:30 AM on May 22 for the scheduled opening at 6. Between leaving the dock and going under the bridge I managed to run aground for the second time of the trip. If you remember the first time was leaving Pelican Bay on the second day. This being the planned next-to-last-day it was only fitting. But this time it was my own disorientation in the dark that led me to drift out of the channel. Fortunately, by going side to side and using full power I was able to dredge our way back into the channel. No harm, no foul.

There were probably 20 boats and a commercial tug in line for the scheduled 6;00 AM bridge opening. The Coast Guard Local Notice to Mariners had stated the bridge would be in the open position from 6-7 that morning then resume normal operation after that.

Someone forgot to tell the train operator. The bridge remained closed while a freight train slowly made its way across. Finally, 50 minutes late, at 6:50 the bridge opened.

Due to the number of boats heading the same way we were west bound traffic was cleared to pass first. We were number 4 behind a mega yacht, a commercial tug and another trawler. The next bottleneck would be the St Lucie lock which would have room for 6 boats.

The race was on.

We pushed the throttles forward to the breathtaking speed of 7.5 knots. This enabled us to do something we never do, pass another boat. But not just any boat, it was the commercial tug we got around. This was fortunate as we found out later. This put us in third position with just 4 miles to go.

Not much further we got passed by a plaining boat with a huge wake. As we got rocked we were thankful the good China was stowed and the stabilizers on. Now we were in 5th place. With just over a mile to go we were passed again. Fortunately, we were upon a no wake zone now and were able to block anyone else from passing (think NASCAR).

The first west bound locking of the day was at 7:45 and we made it in the first group! Yeah! We later found out that the commercial tug was the next through and needed the entire lock, so the rest of the fleet had to wait for our group then the tug before they could come through 6 at a time.

The bridge operators were aware of the mass of boats transiting the Okeechobee Waterway and timed their openings so there was little delay. The only incident with a bridge came the next day when the trawler in front of us called the Fort Denaud swing bridge a railroad bridge. That didn’t go over well with the bridge operator. The dressing down of the trawler skipper was epic as the bridge operator explained the difference between a highway bridge and a railroad bridge. A delay of about 5 minutes was incurred but to hear the dissertation was worth it.

The Port Mayaca Lock was in drive through mode and the crossing of Lake O was mostly uneventful. The only break in the monotony came when a trawler going the opposite direction, on a course to pass starboard to starboard, when a mile away turned to intercept us. I watch him as he closed and about 100 yards away he turned abruptly to starboard again right in front of us. Huh?? WTF?? As he crossed our bow he then turned to port and resumed his course passing us on the “ones” about 20 yards away. In summary he took a ordinary passing situation and maneuvered his boat to create havoc. He then decided to use 16 to question my knowledge of the Rules. I bit my tongue as he demonstrated his ignorance to all that were listening.

We made it through the Moore Haven Lock about 3:30, an hour before they closed, and tied up to the cheap town dock there.

The next morning called for a 6:00 AM departure again as the last leg would be around 100 miles. This leg was completely uneventful except for the bridge incident mentioned earlier. It was also the hardest as it seemed to go on forever; Charlotte Harbor can be the longest three hours of a life when heading home.

A bit of a summary. Our trip took 65 days. Of the 65 days we were at anchor or on a mooring 53 nights. We were in the Bahamas 52 days. We traveled almost 1300 nautical miles and used around 650 gallons of diesel.

It was an excellent trip. We enjoyed each other and the people we met and traveled with. The scenery in the Bahamas is spectacular, the people friendly.

But we are glad to be back.

[papermoonloveslucy]

VACATION TIME

April 29, 1949

“Vacation Time” (aka “Trailer Vacation to Goosegrease Lake”) is episode #41 of the radio series MY FAVORITE HUSBAND broadcast on April 29, 1949 on the CBS radio network.

Synopsis ~ It's vacation time, and Liz and George have decidedly different plans. He wants to go camping with a trailer he borrowed from a friend, while she's set on a glamorous vacation at Moosehead Lodge.

This episode later partly inspired the premise of “Liz Learns To Swim” aired on June 11, 1950. 

“My Favorite Husband” was based on the novels Mr. and Mrs. Cugat, the Record of a Happy Marriage (1940) and Outside Eden (1945) by Isabel Scott Rorick, which had previously been adapted into the film Are Husbands Necessary? (1942). “My Favorite Husband” was first broadcast as a one-time special on July 5, 1948. Lucille Ball and Lee Bowman played the characters of Liz and George Cugat, and a positive response to this broadcast convinced CBS to launch “My Favorite Husband” as a series. Bowman was not available Richard Denning was cast as George. On January 7, 1949, confusion with bandleader Xavier Cugat prompted a name change to Cooper. On this same episode Jell-O became its sponsor. A total of 124 episodes of the program aired from July 23, 1948 through March 31, 1951. After about ten episodes had been written, writers Fox and Davenport departed and three new writers took over – Bob Carroll, Jr., Madelyn Pugh, and head writer/producer Jess Oppenheimer. In March 1949 Gale Gordon took over the existing role of George’s boss, Rudolph Atterbury, and Bea Benaderet was added as his wife, Iris. CBS brought “My Favorite Husband” to television in 1953, starring Joan Caulfield and Barry Nelson as Liz and George Cooper. The television version ran two-and-a-half seasons, from September 1953 through December 1955, running concurrently with “I Love Lucy.” It was produced live at CBS Television City for most of its run, until switching to film for a truncated third season filmed (ironically) at Desilu and recasting Liz Cooper with Vanessa Brown.

MAIN CAST

Lucille Ball (Liz Cooper) was born on August 6, 1911 in Jamestown, New York. She began her screen career in 1933 and was known in Hollywood as ‘Queen of the B’s’ due to her many appearances in ‘B’ movies. With Richard Denning, she starred in a radio program titled “My Favorite Husband” which eventually led to the creation of “I Love Lucy,” a television situation comedy in which she co-starred with her real-life husband, Latin bandleader Desi Arnaz. The program was phenomenally successful, allowing the couple to purchase what was once RKO Studios, re-naming it Desilu. When the show ended in 1960 (in an hour-long format known as “The Lucy-Desi Comedy Hour”) so did Lucy and Desi’s marriage. In 1962, hoping to keep Desilu financially solvent, Lucy returned to the sitcom format with “The Lucy Show,” which lasted six seasons. She followed that with a similar sitcom “Here’s Lucy” co-starring with her real-life children, Lucie and Desi Jr., as well as Gale Gordon, who had joined the cast of “The Lucy Show” during season two. Before her death in 1989, Lucy made one more attempt at a sitcom with “Life With Lucy,” also with Gordon.

Richard Denning (George Cooper) was born Louis Albert Heindrich Denninger Jr., in Poughkeepsie, New York. When he was 18 months old, his family moved to Los Angeles. Plans called for him to take over his father’s garment manufacturing business, but he developed an interest in acting. Denning enlisted in the US Navy during World War II. He is best known for his  roles in various science fiction and horror films of the 1950s. Although he teamed with Lucille Ball on radio in “My Favorite Husband,” the two never acted together on screen. While “I Love Lucy” was on the air, he was seen on another CBS TV series, “Mr. & Mrs. North.” From 1968 to 1980 he played the Governor on “Hawaii 5-0″, his final role. He died in 1998 at age 84.

Bea Benadaret (Iris Atterbury) and Gale Gordon (Rudolph Atterbury) do not appear in this episode. 

Ruth Perrott (Katie, the Maid) was also later seen on “I Love Lucy.” She first played Mrs. Pomerantz (above right), a member of the surprise investigating committee for the Society Matrons League in “Pioneer Women” (ILL S1;E25), as one of the member of the Wednesday Afternoon Fine Arts League in “Lucy and Ethel Buy the Same Dress” (ILL S3;E3), and also played a nurse when “Lucy Goes to the Hospital” (ILL S2;E16). She died in 1996 at the age of 96.

Bob LeMond (Announcer) also served as the announcer for the pilot episode of “I Love Lucy”. When the long-lost pilot was finally discovered in 1990, a few moments of the opening narration were damaged and lost, so LeMond – fifty years later – recreated the narration for the CBS special and subsequent DVD release.

GUEST CAST

Frank Nelson (Policeman) was born on May 6, 1911 (three months before Lucille Ball) in Colorado Springs, Colorado. He started working as a radio announcer at the age of 15. He later appeared on such popular radio shows as “The Great Gildersleeve,” “Burns and Allen,” and “Fibber McGee & Molly”. This is one of his 11 performances on “My Favorite Husband.”  On “I Love Lucy” he holds the distinction of being the only actor to play two recurring roles: Freddie Fillmore and Ralph Ramsey, as well as six one-off characters, including the frazzled train conductor in “The Great Train Robbery” (ILL S5;E5), a character he repeated on “The Lucy Show.”  Aside from Lucille Ball, Nelson is perhaps most associated with Jack Benny and was a fifteen-year regular on his radio and television programs.  

Wally Maher (Joe Risley) was born on August 4, 1908 in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was known for Mystery Street (1950), The Reformer and the Redhead (1950) and Hollywood Hotel (1937). He was heard with Lucille Ball in the Lux Radio Theatre version of “The Dark Corner” (1947), taking the role originated on film by William Bendix. He died on December 27, 1951.

Milton Stark (Filling Station Attendant) was a theatre actor and director, who also appeared on radio and television, although usually in supporting roles.  He also worked as a dialogue coach and acting teacher. At UCLA a scholarship was established in his name. He lived to the age of 103. 

EPISODE

ANNOUNCER: “As we look in on the Coopers, it is a cold rainy afternoon, but Liz is in her bedroom standing in front of the mirror wearing a back-less, strapless sun dress.” 

Liz calls Katie in to show off her sun dress, but Katie is disapproving that is so revealing.  Liz has shopped for summer vacation clothes.  Liz’s bathing suit cost’s forty dollars. 

KATIE: “That’s a lot of money for two doilies and a diaper.” 

Liz says that husbands only approve of scanty swimsuits when they are on any woman but their wives. 

LIZ: “I want to look good for George. He’s going to see a lot of me this summer.” KATIE: “He’s not the only one!”  

The topic of revealing bathing suits was later also mined for comedy on “I Love Lucy.”  In “Off To Florida” (ILL S6;E6) Ricky thinks Lucy’s new skimpy new swimsuit is for Little Ricky!  Lucy also buys a swimsuit that Ricky feels is too skimpy when shopping for their California trip in “Getting Ready” (ILL S4;E11)

Liz says they are going to Moosehead Lodge on Lake Okeechobee. Liz calls it a real swanky place.  Katie reminds Liz that George prefers more rugged vacations.  Liz says she will suggest it to George at dinner. 

Lake Okeechobee is a real place, located in central Florida, although it is far more conducive to George’s type of vacation than Liz’s, highlighting nature through fishing and nature.  

Although there are places called Moosehead Lodge in America, it unlikely that a moose would be associated with central Florida and that it would be an upscale resort of the type Liz is describing. 

At the bank, George talks to his co-worker Joe about scheduling vacations.  Joe says that his ideal vacation is in a trailer.  If George likes the idea, he will lend the Coopers his trailer.  George will suggest it to Liz at dinner. 

After dinner, both Liz and George get cozy with the idea of easing the other into going on their dream destination.  Liz ‘just happened’ to hear about a place that she vaguely remembers. 

LIZ: “I did hear of some place called Moosehead Lodge. It’s probably situated in groves of stately pines, on the shores of an emerald green lake, its rustic beauty enhanced by lawns and flower beds. Each luxurious room is furnished with clean, comfortable box spring beds, modern bathroom and shower. Ten dollars a day, American plan. Oh, George, let’s go there. We can relax and enjoy a continual round of  glorious entertainment, sports, good food, and true fellowship, see your travel agent for details.”

George realizes that Liz has been plotting a vacation.  George says he has a better idea - two weeks in a trailer.  Liz is less than keen. George says that they can borrow Joe Risley’s trailer!

LIZ: “Keen with mud on it.”

Liz is worried that nobody will see her new vacation wardrobe if they are cooped up in a trailer.  They are at an impasse.  Liz suggests they go on separate vacations.  When George reluctantly agrees, she breaks down in tears.  

Liz moans to Katie that she already misses George, and the vacation doesn’t begin for two months.  George phones from work to talk to Liz.  George offers a compromise.  They will take a trial weekend trip in the trailer, and if she doesn’t like it, he will go to Moosehead Lodge!

Vacationing in a trailer was explored by Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz in their 1953 comedy MGM’s The Long Long Trailer.  The film mines a lot of physical comedy from the trailer’s unwieldy movement and how Lucy’s character Tacy Bolton copes with it. 

ANNOUNCER: “George is just driving up with the trailer hooked up to the back of the car.”

Liz remarks how small the trailer is.  

GEORGE: “Keep an open mind.” LIZ: “I’ll have to close it or it won’t fit in that trailer.” 

They tour the inside, which is smaller than Liz thought.  Just then, a knock at the trailer door and there’s a policeman (Frank Nelson) issuing them a parking ticket! Forty bucks for parking illegally!

The next morning George and Liz get an early start on their trial trailer trip.  Liz has brought along a little light reading for the trip: “Inside Moosehead Lodge” by Liz Gunther. 

Motoring along the highway, George is enjoying the drive. 

LIZ: “Travel is great. I wouldn’t go anywhere without it.”

George says it is so smooth, you wouldn’t even know the trailer is back there.  Liz notices that it isn’t!  George forgot to hook it on!   Finally, they are off (again) to Goosegrease Lake. Liz reads one of those sequential signs along the roadside: “If Your Whiskers...  Won’t Behave... Take a Tip Use....”  Liz goes silent. 

GEORGE: “Use what?”  LIZ: “The last sign’s torn down. Now we’ll never know.” 

Almost everyone in the audience knew it was Burma-Shave.  From 1926 until 1963 the ‘brushless’ shaving cream company dotted the American highways with small red signs, each containing a line of a short rhyme that the driver could read without slowing down as they drove by.  At one time, there were over 600 different rhymes on signs!  

The idea was given a nod on a 1955 “I Love Lucy” episode “First Stop” (ILL S4;E14) with the roadside signs for Aunt Polly’s Pecan Pralines. 

LUCY: Fifty miles to Aunt Sally’s Pecan Pralines. later... LUCY: 300 yards to Aunt Sally’s! ETHEL: 200 yards! FRED: 100 yards! RICKY: Just around the bend! LUCY: You have just passed Aunt Sally’s. 

Liz is quite sure that George’s shortcut has gotten them lost. They stop to ask directions from a laid back filling station attendant (Milton Stark) who tells them they don’t want to go to Goosegrease Lake.  He suggests they go to the hot springs, instead. 

Oops! Milton Stark has trouble pronouncing ‘Goosegrease’ and  the audience is aware of his flub. When he asks Lucille Ball “What ya gonna do there?” She deliberately says “We’re gonna goose a grease”, instead of “grease a goose”, which causes more giggles from the cast and gales of laughter from the audience. 

FILLING STATION ATTENDANT: “You can’t get there from here!”

Next morning Liz wakes up and looks around.  She sees beautiful green grass and a little flag with the number 18 on it!  A golf ball comes crashing through the window. The policeman from who ticketed them earlier knocks on the trailer door. They have illegally camped out on the 18th green of the municipal golf course - only two miles from home!  Liz said they didn’t know where they were going. 

POLICEMAN: “Do you know where you’re going now?” LIZ: “Yes!  To Moosehead Lodge!” POLICEMAN: “No, to the city jail! Come on!”

End of Episode

[meadowslark]

Farm workers shred sugar cane near Lake Okeechobee, Florida, in June 2007. Sugar cane sees some of the highest use of sulfur for soil pH control.

Photo: Marc Serota (Getty Images)

Farms Surpass Coal Plants as the Biggest Sulfur Polluters

“Historically, sulfur emissions have come from coal-fired power plants. In the years since the Clean Air Act helped fossil fuel pollutants get their act together—along with the closures of many facilities—sulfur emissions have decreased significantly from this sector. However, a study reveals we have a new source to worry about: agriculture.Published in Nature Geosciences on Monday, the

paper

highlights the changing landscape of sulfur emissions. With less sulfur in the atmosphere, farmers must now apply more sulfur—used as both a fertilizer and pesticide depending on the crop—to their fields.”

In addition to this eyepopping story, there is also

this link

to an article from last year on the major ag source of methane production. Spoiler: it’s not bovine digestion.

[bountyofbeads]

Transgender Woman Found Burned Beyond Recognition in Florida, Officials Say https://nyti.ms/2LWvjcW

Eighteen trans Black women have been murdered this year. Most were under 30.

SAY THEIR NAMES:

Dana. Jazzaline. Ashanti. Claire

Muhlaysia. Michelle. Paris.

Chynal. Chanel. Zoe. Brooklyn.

Denali. Kiki. Jordan. Pebbles.

Tracy. Bailey. Bee.

The Senate must pass The Equality Act and reauthorize the Violence Against Women Act.

We have to find ways to end the bigotry that leads to this violence.

Read more below:

https://t.co/iBFhXk8eg6

Transgender Woman Found Burned Beyond Recognition in Florida, Officials Say

Bee Love Slater was the 18th transgender person known to have been killed in the United States this year, according to the Human Rights Campaign.

By Mariel Padilla and Neil Vigdor | Published Sept. 14, 2019 | New York Times | Posted September 16, 2019 |

The body of a black transgender woman, said by the authorities to have been burned beyond recognition, was found inside an abandoned car in Florida.

The victim, Bee Love Slater, 23, was the 18th transgender person known to have been killed in the United States this year, according to Human Rights Campaign, a civil rights organization that tracks anti-transgender violence.

The authorities had to use dental records to identify her after she was found on Sept. 4 just outside of Clewiston, Fla., a city on the southwest side of Lake Okeechobee, Steve Whidden, the Hendry County sheriff, said Saturday night in an interview.

Sheriff Whidden said investigators were treating the case as a homicide, but had not uncovered any evidence to suggest that the killing was a hate crime.

“We don’t have anything that would show that it’s a hate crime right now,” he said. “We possibly have a motive, but I can’t say what that is at this time.”

The authorities are examining a series of social media posts directed at Ms. Slater before her death, according to Sheriff Whidden, who said that while they were not direct threats, they wished harm on Ms. Slater.

“There were some Facebook posts made — that this person needs to die,” said Sheriff Whidden, who would not elaborate on whether posts were made by an individual or more than one person because of the ongoing investigation.

“There are more questions than we have answers,” said Jackson Jackson, a friend of Ms. Slater’s.

Advocates for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender crime victims said Ms. Slater’s death was part of what they described as an alarming spate of violence against transgender people.

The Human Rights Campaign said she was the 18th transgender person to have died by violent means so far this year. In 2018, advocates tracked at least 26 such deaths, the majority of whom were black transgender women.

“These victims are not numbers — they were people with hopes and dreams, loved ones and communities who will miss them every day,” the group said on Twitter after Ms. Slater’s death.

Another friend, Shaq Bailey, said he was heartbroken at the news of Ms. Slater’s death. “She did nothing but smile and have a positive vibe,” he said. “Nobody who knew her would say bad things about her.”

Janet Taylor, a former longtime Hendry County commissioner, said on Saturday that the death jolted the tight-knit city of Clewiston, which is about 65 miles west of West Palm Beach.

“That’s the feel of the community, that this is really a hate crime,” Ms. Taylor said. “Sexual preferences — we can’t be judgmental about that. Our community just wants justice done for her family.”

Ms. Taylor, who is the founder of Glades Lives Matter, a community action group, said Ms. Slater was not from the immediate area and was believed to be from Pahokee, Fla., which is about 30 miles from Clewiston.

“She didn’t deserve what she got,” Ms. Taylor said.

The American Medical Association called violence against transgender people an “epidemic” and voted at a conference in June to adopt new policies to help prevent this violence.

“According to available tracking, fatal anti-transgender violence in the U.S. is on the rise and most victims were black transgender women,” Bobby Mukkamala, an association board member, said in a statement.

The new policies include educating people on the disproportionate number of fatal attacks on black transgender women and supporting a standardized database of hate crimes.

“The number of victims could be even higher due to underreporting, and better data collection by law enforcement is needed to create strategies that will prevent anti-transgender violence,” Dr. Mukkamala said.

Another friend of Ms. Slater’s, Dezmond Bass, said: “She lived in a small town where everyone knew everyone, and it made it easier for her to be targeted. You should be able to be who you want to be without being discriminated against, and we are doing all that we can to make sure she gets justice.”

Violence Against the Transgender Community in 2019

Published by Human Rights Campaign | Posted September 16, 2019 |

In 2018, advocates tracked at least 26 deaths of transgender people in the U.S. due to fatal violence, the majority of whom were Black transgender women. These victims were killed by acquaintances, partners and strangers, some of whom have been arrested and charged, while others have yet to be identified. Some of these cases involve clear anti-transgender bias. In others, the victim’s transgender status may have put them at risk in other ways, such as forcing them into unemployment, poverty, homelessness and/or survival sex work.

While the details of these cases differ, it is clear that fatal violence disproportionately affects transgender women of color, and that the intersections of racism, sexism, homophobia, biphobia and transphobia conspire to deprive them of employment, housing, healthcare and other necessities, barriers that make them vulnerable. HRC Foundation’s “Dismantling a Culture of Violence” report demonstrates how anti-transgender stigma, denial of opportunity and increased risk factors compound to create a culture of violence -- and provides clear ways that each of us can directly make an impact to make our society a safer place for transgender people.

As is too often the case in the reporting of anti-transgender violence, many of these victims are misgendered in local police statements and media reports, which can delay our awareness of deadly incidents. In the pursuit of greater accuracy and respect for transgender and gender expansive people in both life and death, HRC offers guidelines for journalists and others who report on transgender people.

Sadly, 2019 has already seen at least 18 transgender people fatally shot or killed by other violent means. As HRC continues to work toward justice and equality for transgender people, we mourn those we have lost:

Dana Martin, 31, a Black transgender woman, was fatally shot in Montgomery, Alabama, on January 6. Reports stated that she was found in a roadside ditch in her vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. Daroneshia Duncan-Boyd, an Alabama-based trans advocate, said that “she was a person that was loved by many.”

Jazzaline Ware, a Black transgender woman, was found dead in her Memphis apartment in March. Her death is being investigated as a homicide, according to The Advocate.  “Our community in Memphis is mourning the death of Jazzaline Ware, a Black trans woman and beloved friend,” said the Transgender Law Center in a press release. Further details are unknown as of May 31, 2019.

Ashanti Carmon, 27, a Black transgender woman, was fatally shot in Prince George's County, Maryland, on March 30. “Until I leave this Earth, I’m going to continue on loving her in my heart, body, and soul,” said Philip Williams, Carmon’s fiancé. “She did not deserve to leave this Earth so early, especially in the way that she went out.

Claire Legato, 21, a Black transgender woman, was fatally shot in Cleveland on April 15. Local media reports that Legato was shot in the head after an argument broke out between her mother and the suspect. She was taken to a nearby hospital and died from her injuries on May 14. Friends and family took to social media to mourn Legato’s death, remembering her as someone who was “full of life.”

Muhlaysia Booker, 23, a Black transgender woman, was fatally shot in Dallas on May 18. Local media reported that Booker was found dead, lying face down with a gunshot wound near a golf course in east Dallas. In April, Booker was viciously attacked in what Dallas Mayor Mike Rawlings described as “mob violence.” Officers say that there is no indication as of May 20, 2019, that the April attack is linked to Booker’s killing.

Michelle 'Tamika' Washington, 40, a Black transgender woman, was fatally shot in Philadelphia on May 19. Police responded to reports of shots fired in North Philadelphia’s Franklinville neighborhood, according to the Philadelphia Gay News. Washington, who was also known by the name Tameka, was found with several gunshot wounds and transported to Temple University Hospital, where she was pronounced dead. She is remembered by friends and loved ones as a beloved sister and “gay mother.”

Paris Cameron, 20, a Black transgender woman, was among three people killed in a horrific anti-LGBTQ shooting in a home in Detroit on May 25, according to local reports. Alunte Davis, 21, and Timothy Blancher, 20, two gay men, were found dead at the scene and Cameron was taken to the hospital, where she died from her injuries. Two other victims were also shot but survived. “This case illustrates the mortal danger faced by members of Detroit’s LGBTQ community, including transgender women of color," Fair Michigan President Alanna Maguire said.

Chynal Lindsey, 26, a Black transgender woman, was found dead in White Rock Lake, Dallas, with signs of “homicidal violence” on June 1, according to police. The Dallas Police Department has reached out to federal law enforcement to aid in the investigation. As of June 4, no further details were are available

Chanel Scurlock, 23, a Black transgender woman, was found fatally shot in Lumberton, North Carolina, on June 6. Few details are yet public about the crime, but police told a local news outlet they have “great leads” in their investigation. “RIP baby,” wrote a friend on Facebook. “You [lived] your life as you wanted. I’m proud of you for being unapologetically correct about your feelings and expectations of YOU.”

Zoe Spears, 23, a Black transgender woman, was found lying in the street with signs of trauma near Eastern Avenue in Fairmount Heights, Maryland, and later pronounced dead on June 13, according to local reports. “She was my daughter -- very bright and very full of life,” transgender advocate Ruby Corado, the founder and executive director of Casa Ruby, told HRC. “Casa Ruby was her home. Right now, we just want her and her friends and the people who knew her to know that she’s loved.”

Brooklyn Lindsey, 32, a Black transgender woman, was found dead on the front porch of an abandoned home in Kansas City, Missouri, on June 25, according to local news reports. “I love you, Brooklyn Lindsey,” wrote a friend on Twitter. “I shall live on for you. Rest in power, sista.”

Denali Berries Stuckey, 29, a Black transgender woman, was found fatally shot in North Charleston, South Carolina, on July 20. “I lost my best friend, first cousin,” wrote a family member on Facebook. “We were more than cousin. We were like brother and sisters. I love you so much, Pooh.”

Kiki Fantroy, 21, a Black transgender woman, was fatally shot in Miami on July 31. Fantroy’s mother remembered her as having “a heart of gold” and being “a very loving person.” She also pleaded for justice for her daughter, saying, “My baby, my baby. Please help bring justice to my baby.”

Jordan Cofer, 22, was among the nine victims killed in a mass shooting in Dayton, Ohio, on August 4. While Cofer was only out to a handful of close friends and used the pronouns he/him/his on his social media profiles, he is remembered by friends as “extremely bright” and “well-liked.” A friend told Splinter News that “Jordan was probably one of the sweetest people you would ever meet, a true saint, but he was also very scared constantly. He tried to give the best to everyone.”

Pebbles LaDime “Dime” Doe, 24, a Black transgender woman, was killed in Allendale County, South Carolina, on August 4. She was found dead in a car parked in a driveway, according to reports. Doe’s friends and family remembered her as having a “bright personality,” and being someone who “showed love” and who was “the best to be around.” 

Tracy Single, 22, a Black transgender woman, was killed in Houston on July 30. “Rest in power and peace Tracy,” wrote Monica Roberts, Houston-based transgender advocate. “You were taken away from us way too soon.”

Bailey Reeves, 17, a Black transgender teen, was fatally shot in Baltimore, Maryland, on September 2. As of September 6, little is known about the circumstances surrounding her death. Reeves is the 17th known trans person killed this year. 

Bee Love Slater, 23, was brutally murdered in Clewiston, Florida, on September 4. Slater is remembered by loved ones as someone "with a really, really sweet heart" who "never harmed anyone." 

Additionally, HRC is deeply concerned about the deaths of Johana ‘Joa’ Medina and Layleen Polanco, whose stories we are following closely. Medina, 25, died at a hospital in El Paso, Texas just hours after being released from ICE custody. She suffered severe health complications that went untreated while she was in detention, according to Diversidad Sin Fronteras. Her exact cause of death is not yet known. Polanco was found dead in a cell at Riker's Island on June 7. 

[ericwrightlakeforkguide]

Lake Fork Report 4/10/2019

I want to start out by thanking everyone who has come out to fish with me this season. I am having a blast and I appreciate the opportunity to work hard and help y’all have a great time on Lake Fork. 

As of this post, the water level on Lake Fork is currently 402.94 and the temperature where I have been fishing is around 67 degrees. We are having an awesome spawn on Lake Fork and if you enjoy sight fishing now is the time! The mornings can still be a little cool, so if you are planning to come out make sure to check the weather.

My go to bait for sight fishing is a Paca Craw/Okeechobee Craw - I rig this bait  with a 5/16 Tungsten and #3 rigging hook. I have also been able to catch them with the Zoom Ultra Vibe Speed Craw. Don’t forget to bring a great pair of polarized sunglasses. I use Costa sunglasses with Blue Mirror/Amber.  

I am also catching some fish right now using a drop shot on secondary points holding timber. I am rigging it with a 1/4 oz weight and #1 rigging hook. The trick here is to set your leader at about 12" (Tomato/Mardi Gras) finesse worms.

Some other baits we have been working with have been Frogs, Line Through Swimbaits and I can't tell you enough how productive the Owner-Underspin 3/8 oz with a Skinny Dipper (white trash) has been for us. You want this lure in your boat. 

I hope this information can help those of you coming out to Lake Fork.  

I do have evenings open for those looking to get out with me this spring. These trips begin at 4:30 and fish until dark. The cost is $200 and this price is good for 1-2 anglers. 

I am starting to book up full and half day trips for the second half of June and July and would love to have y'all out. If you are planning on coming out this summer, make sure to get your trip booked in advance. I will put all the prices down below the photos and if you would like to see more, please follow me on Instagram and Facebook. This first photo at the top is from yesterday 4/09/2019.

Thank you for stopping by - Eric Wright. 

LAKE FORK GUIDE RATES 2019

Full Day 1-2  Anglers:  $450.00 

3rd Person 100$

Full day trips begin at first light and end around 4 PM.  

Half Day: 1-2 Anglers $250.00

3rd Person 50$

Half day trips run for 5 hours.

Trail Boat: $100.00

Student/Military Discount Full Day $400.00

200$ Summer Evening Special  

CONTACT

Eric Wright #972 757 7947

Email ericwrightprofisherman@yahoo.com

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt:

Florida is struggling to stop a massive algal bloom in Lake Okeechobee.

Gov. Rick Scott declared a state of emergency in seven South Florida counties and instructed the Army Corps of Engineers, the body responsible for managing water levels in Lake Okeechobee, to redirect the flow of water to combat the bloom’s harmful effects.

Lake Okeechobee, the state’s largest freshwater lake, regularly experiences algal blooms, but this year’s is particularly large. It covers about 90% of the 730-square-mile lake, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. It has also appeared in the St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee estuaries on the state’s east and west coasts.

Algal blooms are unpredictable but tend to develop in bodies of water where there are warm temperatures, relatively calm conditions and nutrients running off nearby land. The bloom in Florida is caused by the accumulation of a naturally occurring blue-green algae called cyanobacteria. Algae doesn’t always pose a health or environmental risk, but cyanobacteria can produce a toxin called microcystin that, if consumed, can damage the liver and irritate the skin, eyes and throat, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Of the 90 algae samples taken from the affected counties in the last 30 days, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection has detected microcystin toxins in 49 of them. Of those, only 19 contained toxin levels greater than 10 micrograms per liter, the level the World Health Organization considers a low-level risk. The amounts ranged from less than one microgram to more than 460 micrograms of toxin per liter.

The governor’s office said the algal bloom spread as the Army Corps of Engineers discharged water from the lake into neighboring bodies of water. The Army Corps releases water from Lake Okeechobee to manage flood risk during the state’s wet season, which runs from late spring through the fall. This year, the discharges began on June 1. After a halting releases of water to the east coast on June 30 to allow the tides to replenish saltwater in estuaries, the Corps paused discharges to the west on July 9.

[transpondster]

The tide started in October near Sarasota, but intensified after heavy rain increased annual seasonal releases from Lake Okeechobee, where blue-green algae blooms erupted in June. Last week, neon green algae — which can also kill fish, oysters, sea grass and other marine life — continued to pile up in canals in Fort Myers and float in patches down the Caloosahatchee toward the Southwest coast. 

 As of Tuesday, state wildlife officials had tallied 605 dead and 120 sick sea turtles in seven counties with or near red tide, with 266 confirmed poisonings since November, Mote Marine Lab reported. That’s 1.7 times higher than the five-year average for total strandings. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration had confirmed 22 dolphin deaths, though not all were caused by red tide. That includes 11 collected by Mote last week in Sarasota and Manatee counties alone. 

 Nearly 100 manatee deaths in counties where red tide occurred have also been connected to the blooms. Impacts to other fish like tarpon — less high-profile species with fewer protections — won’t be known until future stock assessments can be performed, NOAA spokeswoman Kim Amendola said in an email.

Who could’ve guessed that state government excusing pollution, denying global warming, and allowing big sugar and big business to operate without any accountability might do tremendous damage to a place like Florida?

[jthurlow]

“In Full Bloom” Documentation Lake Okeechobee, Early June 2023

[thejfblog]

Mapping with Video: Modern Major Hurricanes in Southern Florida

Southern Florida and its position at the tip of a peninsula jutting out into the Northern Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico make it especially prone to tropical cyclonic activity during an annual hurricane season that lasts from June through November, corresponding with peak ocean temperatures during the summer and fall in the Northern Hemisphere.

Photos (clockwise from left) of the Great Miami Hurricane of 1926 battering Miami Beach, Florida, infrared satellite imagery of Hurricane Andrew, and an aerial of the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew near Homestead, Florida, in 1992. (State Library and Archives of Florida/NOAA)

Dozens of hurricanes have made landfall in the region since the early 20th century of varying intensities, with a number of storms leaving an indelible mark on the lives and memories of everyday Floridians, from Jupiter and the southern shore of Lake Okeechobee, south to Key West and Florida Bay, and north on the southwest Florida coast to the Caloosahatchee River.

This post takes a look at notable storms that were documented with video dating back from 1926 through the modern day.

Media coverage of these weather events changed dramatically since the early days of telecommunication technology, when early warning to locals of the Great Miami Hurricane of 1926 that threatened the burgeoning port city only came from a handful of radio stations that included WQAM and WIOD and two print newspapers, the Miami Herald and Miami Daily News (later the Miami News).

The resiliency of the natives and longtime residents of southern Florida, despite the annual imminent weather threat, demonstrates the hardy character of a people to a region.

[cathierrr]

How I Met Your Father

I am a mother that was not perfect. Many of my mistakes could have been avoided. Was I too young and immature to be a wife and mother?  Did my parents and grandparents try to tell us? Sure they did! No one could convince me otherwise. I’m laying it right out here in the first paragraph. Absolutely flawed the first time around. Not flawed to the extent Todd was in danger or lacking for anything, including love. We were just too young to be married let alone have children. Todd was an only child until he was 14.

However, there’s no way in hell that I’m owning that my marriage or mothering skills lacked the second time around.

Contrary to the podcasts, I was an excellent wife and mother. All the gaslighting you throw at me will not change my feelings on this subject. My story is backed with public records through court documents, police reports, pictures, even a voice mail recording from 1986.  Included in my story is a sister that has fabricated a lot of my story to my two younger children. Based on Cindy’s lies she’s also part of this story. I’m not skipping over her shortcomings either. So sis time to make another appointment with your Dr to up your Prozac. Please don’t forget the dentist too because you are going to be grinding your teeth again after this. There are no words worthy of my sister Cindy’s twisted mental contribution to this situation, but I’m sure going to try. A lot of witnesses have passed on, but fortunately many are still living. They have very sharp memories on the matter of what truly happened. Slander is a serious charge and provable in this story. Saving the best for last, I also have very detailed Journals dating from 1984 until 2010. I have condensed my earlier years in order to jump to the story of my final husband, Richard “Rick” Thomas Rockwood.  What caused me to relive this drama is my daughter. Danica’s recent podcast (Adapt/Overcome, part 2) stating that she didn’t remember why her parents got divorced. In a way I blame myself because I didn’t want to bad mouth their father.  I would love to forget most of it but I’m rehashing it because I feel it’s time to put the story out there. If I didn’t participate in this story I would hesitate to believe it was true. Unfortunately, it happened. I met Todd’s father, Mike the day after I graduated high school on June 6, 1972, my 18th birthday. When I went away to college that fall I was “in love”. I didn’t make it further than the first semester in Quincy, IL. All I wanted to do was get married and be a mother. We were married on January 26, 1974, I was 19. A week before our first anniversary we had Todd Joseph on January 19th, 1975. I was age 20.

Am I sorry for my shortcomings as Todd’s mother? Absolutely, I have expressed that to Todd many times in vain. I love Todd and always will regardless of how he feels about me. Todd has never been a warm or forgiving person towards me. I’m sure he’s nicer to others. I know he loves his siblings. Years later we’re driving to have a family portrait done. Todd’s home for a visit from the seminary where he had been for 5 years. Todd didn’t stop telling me his opinion of me as his mother until we arrived at the Palm Beach Catholic Church. He wanted to go to mass where the Kennedy’s went prior to the family portrait. Once we lit some candles and got back in the car, Todd continued his assessment of me. The family portrait would only have my three children in it. By the time we arrived my eyes were too red and swollen from crying.  My shortcomings were that I married his father who he has less respect for than me, but he loves the rest of his fathers family so he overlooks his alcoholic, classless red neck father (his words many times). He was a victim of divorce (we spoiled him more because of it which didn’t help) and I smoked marijuana. He is right on all of my shortcomings. I was young and thought pot would be legal soon. I missed that projected date by about 40 years. In my defense I learned from it and never smoked around my younger children. Now it’s a mute point but I am owning my shortcomings. Todd has accused me of too many other things that never happened.

I always knew that following the teachings of the Bible would not be his final path. A month after the family portrait episode Todd calls me in tears. The seminary in Cheshire, CT is letting him go. Not exactly letting him go. He had some medical problems during his seminary stay and the church wanted Todd to start his work in a church. 

They felt missionary work that Todd wanted would require things that might affect his health. He’d already almost died from gallbladder surgery and later back surgery. All of this by the time he was 21.  I told him this was a sign from God to do something else. I offered my home at no cost (that changed 3 months before he left). He could go to college and start his life. He also mentioned that his step father showed him that money and power was the best way to make it. Today Todd is an international corporate attorney in London. He hates me and has nothing good to say about me. I’m fine with his feelings until I come across his blatant lies.  It’s just my personal opinion, but is this really the expected behavior of a former priest?

October 25, 1985, Friday night Sandy Belcher and I had just left a great rock concert by Heart. It was at the West Palm Beach Auditorium (now known as The Jehovah Witness Center on the corner of North Congress Avenue and Palm Beach Lakes Blvd.). The auditorium was about a mile from my office. It was my favorite place for concerts not just because it was small and close. The building was circular and when there was nothing going on, you could drive up the ramp to the ticket window, purchase future tickets and drive away, no parking necessary. In the future Rick and I would see many concerts there including Eddy Murphy, Rodney Dangerfield. A little over a year later on December 27, 1986, we would take Todd to his first concert there with Cyndi Lauper. Rick and I had gotten engaged two days earlier on Christmas Eve.

Sandy bought the tickets for her and her boyfriend, Johnny Connelly. Johnny backed out at the last minute. Sandy didn’t want to go alone and I was almost done packing at home, so we went.  We had front row seats!

After the concert, we hit Big Daddy’s, also just down the street on Okeechobee Blvd. Robin Gufstason and Amy Boehler were going to be there prior to our arrival and would have a table for us.  Isn’t it funny how fate takes over? I would have stayed home and finished packing if Johnny had decided to go. In hindsight I kind of wished he had. There were good times too, especially my children. I hold onto those memories when reliving my story.

I remember walking into Big Daddy’s and getting a seat at Robin and Amy’s front row table. At the time, Sandy, Robin, Amy and I all worked together at the West Palm Beach Better Business Bureau. Robin and I were also roommates. I had moved to West Palm Beach a year earlier on April 1, 1984. I remembered the date well for 3 reasons. It was April Fool’s Day, also was my cousin Janine’s birthday. Janine’s brother Bruce was my age and my first encounter with a bully. Trust me when I say, never be around a bully on April Fool’s Day.

Robin’s boyfriend had just got transferred to Daytona which meant we could no longer share the the home we were renting in Palm Beach Gardens. I was moving in with Carmen Parish and her son, Adam on Sunday to Browning St. in West Palm Beach. After the band went on break, my roommate Robin goes outside with the band. Apparently Robin was not thrilled with her boyfriend whose name escapes me. Moving to Dayton was according to Robin “bumming her out” so a little payback with the drummer was her goal. Meanwhile, Amy mentions she has had her eye on one of the guys at the bar since he got there about an hour earlier. She could see he was finally staring at our table, she just knew he was going to ask her to dance after the band got off break. It seemed to me that the guy Amy had her hook for was already with a tall blonde. When I mentioned the blonde to Amy she said that wasn’t a deal breaker!? Amy and I didn’t share the same views at times. When the band break was over I noticed the tall blonde with the guy Amy was pumped up about was coming towards our table. She tells me her name is Lisa and she came over to our table because the guy she is with wanted to meet me. The guy is named Rick and is the brother of Lisa’s boyfriend David. Evidently Lisa and David had recently broke up and Rick took her out to cheer her up. By now Robin is back at our table and tells me to meet him. Knowing that Amy saw him first made me hesitate but Amy agreed I should. Rick came to our table and was very personable and handsome. I had recently broke off with my long term boyfriend and wasn’t looking for another.  After dancing for an hour I told Rick I had to go since I had to work in the morning. Rick asked me on a date for the next night. His friend Mark and his girlfriend were having a Halloween party in Wellington. I’m big on Halloween so I accepted. He walked me to my car and I gave him my address. He told me he loved my car. I had just gotten a red VW bug and also loved it.  It’s funny how much changes during a courtship. Later he will tell everyone that when he met me I was living out of boxes with a “piece of shit car”. I had no clue that night just how much my life would change. Until next time, Cathie

[cruisersnet]

USACE Lunchtime Webinars on Lake Okeechobee Water Levels, May 20-June 4

[pitchpine]

Late twilight on Lake Okeechobee

23 June 2017

Canal Point, Florida

[ericwrightlakeforkguide]

Lake Fork Report 4-1-2018

Spring is finally here and is an excellent time on Lake Fork to offer anglers of all experience levels the opportunity to come catch some giant bass!

As of this post the water level on Lake Fork is 402.96 and the water temperature where I am fishing is currently 64 degrees. The mornings here on Lake Fork can still be a little cool, so if you are coming out make sure to check the weather.

Recently the most common question asked is about water clarity. Lake Fork has received a lot of water this season and is currently dingy. This will change. The cleanest water I am finding is around mid-lake and we are ABSOLUTELY sight fishing.

This time of year I primarily use three baits.

When I am fishing secondary points, I will either use a drop shot or split shot rig. I set up my drop shot with a #1 rigging hook and a 1/4 oz weight (tomato). For the split shot rig I like to use a Fluke with a #3 rigging hook and 1/4 oz weight (Mardi Gras).

When I'm sight fishing, I throw a Texas rigged Paca Craw with a #3 rigging hook and a 5/16 Tungsten weight (Blk/Blu or Okeechobee Craw).

For those of you looking to come to Lake Fork for a guided trip, I would love the opportunity to help you catch a fish of a lifetime. Whether you are a first time or seasoned angler, I take pride in working hard to make sure each trip is a success. I currently have a few open slots left for April and I am starting to book May and June. If you have any questions or to book a trip, please feel free to give me a call. I will post my prices and contact information after the pictures. 

if you would like to see all my photos from this season please check out my Instagram.

Thanks, Eric Wright

LAKE FORK GUIDE RATES 2018

Full Day 1-2  Anglers:  $450.00 ( 1-2 people) After March 1

3rd Person 100$

Full day trips begin at first light and end around 4 PM.  

Half Day: 1-2 Anglers $250.00 ( 1-2 people)

3rd Person 50$

Half day trips run for 5 hours.

Trail Boat: $100.00

Student/Military Discount Full Day $400.00

200$ Summer Evening Special  

CONTACT

Eric Wright #972 757 7947

Email ericwrightprofisherman@yahoo.com