Podcasts about virginia department

09/21/23 - The family of Irvo Otieno reaches $8.5 million settlement in his wrongful death suit; The Virginia Department of Elections announced it signed agreements with five states and Washington DC to share voter data; and other stories.

Click to listen to episode (3:54).Sections below are the following:Transcript of AudioAudio Notes and AcknowledgmentsImagesExtra InformationSourcesRelated Water Radio EpisodesFor Virginia Teachers (Relevant SOLs, etc.)Unless otherwise noted, all Web addresses mentioned were functional as of 9-15-23. TRANSCRIPT OF AUDIO From the Cumberland Gap to the Atlantic Ocean, this is Virginia Water Radio for the weeks of September 18 and September 25, 2023.  This is a revised version of an episode from September 2014. SOUNDS - ~6 sec – Pied-billed Grebe call. This week, we feature some raucous mystery sounds from a family of diving birds.  Have a listen for about 20 seconds, and see if you can guess what's making these calls.  And here's a hint: you'll get grief if you miss this name by only one letter's sound. SOUNDS - ~ 22 sec. If you guessed grebe, you're right!  Those were some of the sounds made by the Pied-billed Grebe, Horned Grebe, and Red-necked Grebe.  Out of 22 grebe species worldwide and seven in North America, these three species are found commonly in many aquatic habitats in Virginia, with two others—the Eared Grebe and the Western Grebe—seen occasionally within the Commonwealth.  Horned Grebes and Red-necked Grebes are regular winter residents on Virginia's coasts, while the Pied-billed Grebe is typically a year-round resident on the coast and a winter resident in other regions. Grebes are known for their swimming and diving abilities; for example, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's “Birds of the World” Web site says quote, “[g]rebes rocket through the water by compressing water behind them with coordinated thrusts of their muscular legs,” unquote; and Cornell's “All About Birds” site calls the Pied-billed Grebe “part bird, part submarine.”  Lobed toes set far back on their bodies adapt grebes for swimming, and their ability to add or remove water and air from their feathers and internal air sacs helps them to float or, as needed, to submerge to escape danger or to feed.  Grebes feed on a variety of aquatic animals like fish, crustaceans, and insects; on aquatic plants sometimes; and—notably—on their own feathers.  In turn, they may be eaten by such predators as raccoons, snakes, and birds of prey. Grebes call and act aggressively during breeding season, but they may be quieter and much less noticeable during non-breeding season.   In fact, a calm pond surface might conceal a hiding grebe with only its nostrils exposed to the air, or that surface might be broken—almost silently—by a grebe emerging with a fish in its bill. Thanks to Lang Elliott for permission to use the grebe sounds, from the Stokes' Field Guide to Bird Songs, and we let the Pied-billed Grebe have the last call. SOUNDS - ~6 sec. SHIP'S BELL Virginia Water Radio is produced by the Virginia Water Resources Research Center, part of Virginia Tech's College of Natural Resources and Environment.  For more Virginia water sounds, music, or information, visit us online at virginiawaterradio.org, or call the Water Center at (540) 231-5624.  Thanks to Stewart Scales for his banjo version of “Cripple Creek” to open and close this episode.  In Blacksburg, I'm Alan Raflo, thanking you for listening, and wishing you health, wisdom, and good water. AUDIO NOTES AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This Virginia Water Radio episode revises and replaces Episode 233, 9-29-14. The sounds of the Horned Grebe, Pied-billed Grebe, and Red-necked Grebe were from the Stokes Field Guide to Bird Songs-Eastern Region CD set, by Lang Elliott with Donald and Lillian Stokes (Time Warner Audio Books, copyright 1997), used with permission of Lang Elliott.  Lang Elliot's work is available online at “The Music of Nature” Web site, http://www.musicofnature.org/. Click here if you'd like to hear the full version (1 min./11 sec.) of the “Cripple Creek” arrangement/performance by Stewart Scales that opens and closes this episode.  More information about Mr. Scales and the group New Standard, with which Mr. Scales plays, is available online at http://newstandardbluegrass.com. IMAGES Two Pied-billed Grebes on a pond in Blacksburg, Virginia, September 28, 2014.  Photo by Virginia Water Radio.Pied-billed Grebe at Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge in Wyoming, April 2016.  Photo by Tom Koerner, made available for public use by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library, online at http://digitalmedia.fws.gov; specific URL for the photo was https://digitalmedia.fws.gov/digital/collection/natdiglib/id/23453/rec/4, as of 9-18-23.Horned Grebe with chick, at Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge in Alaska, June 2005.  Photo by Donna Dewhurst, made available for public use by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library, online at http://digitalmedia.fws.gov; specific URL for the photo was https://digitalmedia.fws.gov/digital/collection/natdiglib/id/411/rec/41, as of 9-18-23.Red-necked Grebe pair, at Anchorage Coastal Wildlife Refuge in Alaska, May 2005.  Photo by Donna Dewhurst, made available for public use by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Digital Library, online at http://digitalmedia.fws.gov; specific URL for the photo was https://digitalmedia.fws.gov/digital/collection/natdiglib/id/20/rec/37, as of 9-18-23. EXTRA INFORMATION ABOUT THE PIED-BILLED GREBE The following information is quoted from the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (formerly Department of Game and Inland Fisheries), “Fish and Wildlife Information Service,” online at https://services.dwr.virginia.gov/fwis/, primarily the “Life History” section of the the Pied-billed Grebe entry, online at https://services.dwr.virginia.gov/fwis/booklet.html?&bova=040008&Menu=_.Taxonomy&version=19612. The scientific name of the Pied-billed Grebe is Podilymbus podiceps. Physical Description “This species is 12-15 inches (31-38 cm) long with a 23 inch wingspread.  It is a small, stocky bird distinguished by its short, blunt bill encircled by a broad black band with the upper portion of the bill curved downward; it is often described as chicken-like.  ...Grebes have lobed toes, feet that are placed far back on the body, and a short rudder-like tail to aid in pursuing prey underwater.” Reproduction “The nest is built by both members of the pair and is made up of flags, rushes, sedge, algae and mud and is attached to grasses, reeds or bushes in the water. ...The eggs are laid from March to September, are blue-white initially, and then turn brown.  The brown color results from the adults covering the eggs with wet organic matter when they are foraging or defending the territory.  ...There may be up to 2 broods per year.  Incubation takes about 23 days and begins with the first egg laid.” Behavior “Nest attendance is shared equally by the male and female during egg-laying and post-laying periods.  Incubation however, is carried out mostly by the female.  The streaked or spotted chicks can swim almost immediately after hatching.  The young will usually travel on the parents back or will cling to their tail.  The parents may feed the chicks and even dive while chicks are on their back.  The parents will return to the nest frequently with the young.  Young grebes fledge at about 35 days.  ...[This species] rarely flies, and it escapes by diving with a short leap or by slowly submerging.  It is the most solitary of the grebes.  It is the first grebe to arrive north in the spring and the last to leave in the fall.  It migrates in closely-massed flocks. ...” Feeding “Diet consists primarily of fish including eels, carp, and catfish as well as sticklebacks, sculpins, silversides, and minnows.  [It will also] forage on crayfishes, aquatic insects, snails, spiders, frogs, tadpoles, some seeds and soft parts of aquatic plants, ...[and] on shrimp in saltwater bays and estuaries.  [It ingests] large numbers of their own feathers.  This may serve to protect the stomach from puncture by indigestible parts and prevent hard items from entering the intestines.  Feathers also provide the base material of regurgitated pellets that contain undigested material such as fish bones.” Aquatic/Terrestrial Associations: “In Virginia, pied-billed grebes have been observed foraging with snowy egrets.  Mutualistic foraging enhances opportunities for obtaining prey.  Limiting factors: The greatest losses of nests and eggs resulted from wind, rain, waves, and storm tides.  Predators of eggs and young include raccoons, laughing gulls, water snakes, snapping turtles, and peregrine falcons.” SOURCES Used for Audio Cornell University Lab of Ornithology, “All About Birds,” online at http://www.allaboutbirds.org.The Horned Grebe entry is online at https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Horned_Grebe/;the Pied-billed Grebe entry is online at https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Pied-billed_Grebe/;the Red-necked Grebe entry is online at https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Red-necked_Grebe/. National Audubon Society, “Taxonomic Family: Grebes,” online at https://www.audubon.org/bird-guide?title=Grebe&family=6460. Cornell University Lab of Ornithology, “Birds of the World,” online at https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/home.  (subscription required).The entry for the taxonomic family of grebes, Podicipedidae, is online at https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/podici1/cur/introduction; this is the source of the quote in the audio.The Horned Grebe entry is online at https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/horgre/cur/introduction;the Pied-billed Grebe entry is online at https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/pibgre/cur/introduction;the Red-necked Grebe entry is online at https://birdsoftheworld.org/bow/species/rengre/cur/introduction. Indiana Audubon, “Pied-billed Grebe,” by Annie Aguirre, July 1, 2018, online at https://indianaaudubon.org/2018/07/01/pied-billed-grebe-2/. Angela Minor, “Birds of the Blue Ridge: Pied-billed Grebe,” Blue Ridge Country, December 27, 2022. Chandler S. Robbins et al., A Guide to Field Identification of Birds of North America, St. Martin's Press, New York, N.Y., 2001. Stan Tekiela, Birds of Virginia Field Guide, Adventure Publications, Cambridge, Minn., 2002. Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (formerly Department of Game and Inland Fisheries), “Fish and Wildlife Information Service,” online at https://services.dwr.virginia.gov/fwis/.The Horned Grebe entry is online at https://services.dwr.virginia.gov/fwis/booklet.html?&bova=040005&Menu=_.Taxonomy&version=19612;the Pied-billed Grebe entry is online at https://services.dwr.virginia.gov/fwis/booklet.html?&bova=040008&Menu=_.Taxonomy&version=19612;the Red-necked Grebe entry is online at https://services.dwr.virginia.gov/fwis/booklet.html?&bova=040004&Menu=_.Taxonomy&version=19612. Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (formerly Department of Game and Inland Fisheries), “List of Native and Naturalized Fauna in Virginia, August 2022,” online (as a PDF) at https://dwr.virginia.gov/wp-content/uploads/virginia-native-naturalized-species.pdf. Joel C. Welty, The Life of Birds, 2nd Edition, W.B. Saunders Company, Philadelphia, Penn., 1975. For More Information about Birds in Virginia or Elsewhere Chesapeake Bay Program, “Birds,” online at https://www.chesapeakebay.net/discover/field-guide/critters?s=&fieldGuideType=Birds&fieldGuideHabitat. Cornell University Lab of Ornithology, “Merlin Photo ID.”  The application for mobile devices allows users to submit a bird photograph to get identification of the bird. Information is available online at http://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/. Cornell University Lab of Ornithology and the Audubon Society, “eBird,” online at https://ebird.org/home.  Here you can find locations of species observations made by contributors, and you can sign up to contribute your own observations. University of Michigan Museum of Zoology, “Animal Diversity Web,” online at https://animaldiversity.org.Virginia Society of Ornithology, online at http://www.virginiabirds.org/.  The Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to the study, conservation, and enjoyment of birds in the Commonwealth. Xeno-canto Foundation, online at https://xeno-canto.org/.  This site provides sounds of birds and other wildlife from around the world. RELATED VIRGINIA WATER RADIO EPISODES All Water Radio episodes are listed by category at the Index link above (http://www.virginiawaterradio.org/p/index.html).  See particularly the “Birds” subject category. Following are links to some other episodes on diving birds. American Coot – Episode 391, 10-23-17.Cormorants – Episode 467, 4-8-19.Loons – Episode 445, 11-5-18

DC federal Judge Tanya Chutkan has set March 4, 2024 as the trial date for Trump's case over the aftermath of the 2020 election. This is the day before Super Tuesday, when 14 states, including California and Texas, head to the polls to determine the GOP nominee for president. The president's age is a top concern not only to 89% of Republicans, but also 69% of Democrats amid Biden's 2024 reelection bid, The Associated Press/NORC poll indicates. With Biden being the oldest U.S. president in history, Republicans and independents are significantly less concerned about former President Donald Trump's age even though he is only three years younger. The Fisher family farm, a source of healthy food for local consumers in Virginia, was raided by the Virginia Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (VDACS). Plus ore on today's episode.

Welcome to Season 3 Episode 2 of SARCast - Luke is joined by Ralph Simonsen aka Famous Ralph. It is a jammed packed discussion covering a wide range of subjects including the Icelandic ICE-SAR Conference, Avalanches and a good update on what Ralph has been up to in the Arctic Circle! At the end of their discussion they discuss Artificial Intelligence (AI) use in Drone search and rescue.Later Luke is joined by Sam Vincent from Derbyshire 4x4 Response Team who discuss what a 4x4 Response team is, what they get up to here in the UK and Sam shares his experiences of Snow and a good view of what it's like in the team.Episode Links:ICE-SAR Conference - https://www.rescue.is/Norsk Folkehjelp - https://folkehjelp.no/Norsk Folkenhjelp Midt-Troms - https://www.instagram.com/nfmidttroms/Derbyshire 4x4 Response Team - https://derbyshire4x4response.org/Modern Outdoor Survival Snow Episode - https://www.spreaker.com/episode/52204362 Dr Robert Koester: Robert J. Koester first joined the Appalachian Search & Rescue Conference in 1981 and since then has participated in hundreds of searches. He holds a PhD in search theory from the University of Portsmouth and is CEO of dbS Productions. His contributions to search and rescue include seminal research on lost person behavior (with emphasis on dementia), the International Search and Rescue Incident Database (ISRID), a tactical decision aid software – FIND. A Search Mission Coordinator, instructor for the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, and past president of the Virginia Search and Rescue Council (15 years), Robert has also worked for the United States Coast Guard, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, National Park Service, Department of Homeland Security, and Federal Emergency Management Agency. Author of numerous books and articles on search and rescue. He has presented in Aruba, Australia, Iceland, Ireland, New Zealand, Poland, the United Kingdom, and throughout the United States and Canada. A link to Lost Person Behaviour - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Lost-Person-Behavior-Search-Rescue/dp/1879471396 Gear Links: Rigerloo Rescuer - https://rigloo-rs.com/rescuer/Ortovox Peak 45 rucksack - https://nettbutikk.folkehjelp.no/produkt/beredskapssekk-vanlig-rygg/Helly Hansen - https://www.hellyhansen.com/journal/custom-made-for-search-and-rescueSAR Cast TShirt - https://sarstore.co.uk/product/sar-store-sar-cast-t-shirt/ Podcast Links - Join the conversation over on Discord - https://discord.gg/sX98QHg777SARCast Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sarcastuk/SARCast Twitter - @SARCastUKSAR Store Online Shop - https://sarstore.co.uk/

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge: Invites us to pray for our students as they begin a new school year  Shares why it is vital to pray for those struggling with their mental health Attend the Day of Prayer for Mental Health at All Saints in Manassas, with Mass celebrated by Bishop Burbidge at 11 a.m. this Saturday, August 26 Expresses grave concerns regarding some local public school districts rejecting the model policies of the Virginia Department of Education Read Bishop's Catechesis on the Human Person and Gender Ideology Affirms how our renovated cathedral will reflect the Diocese's diverse cultural representation  Attend the Marian Procession & Mass for Multicultural Communities this Friday, August 25 Spotlights the upcoming Season of Creation taking place from September 1 to October 4 that opens with the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation  Gives advice and encouragement to those who are struggling with work   Bishop also answers the following question from the faithful: I found it nothing short of a miracle that the Maria Lanakila Catholic Church in Maui was unscathed by the wildfires but the surrounding area was in ruins. What were your thoughts on this? 

Emails obtained by VPM News show Virginia is talking with more than a dozen other states, including Ohio and Florida, to come up with a plan to combat voter fraud; A Richmond-based Kava-Bar is taking the Virginia Department of Health to court over its battle to open; Bus riders who rely on the Greater Richmond Transit Company's downtown hub will see some service changes when the new transfer station opens next month.

Larry O'Connor and Patrice Onwuka speak with Jacqueline Woodbridge, spokesperson for Transurban, about the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and Transurban North America partially opened a 10-mile extension of the 95 Express Lanes this week to reduce congestion on the Interstate 95 corridor. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this third hour; Larry O'Connor and Patrice Onwuka speak with Jacqueline Woodbridge, spokesperson for Transurban, about the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) and Transurban North America partially opened a 10-mile extension of the 95 Express Lanes this week to reduce congestion on the Interstate 95 corridor. There is an environmental disaster in Maui. Larry O'Connor and Patrice Onwuka speak with Newt Gingrich, author of new book "March to the Majority," former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, 2012 presidential candidate and Chairman of Gingrich 360 about the upcoming RNC debate. A new TikTok trend includes parents cracking eggs over the head of their children.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

African Americans are second only to Native Americans and Alaskan Natives in the number of people who still smoke. Of the African Americans who still light up, three in four smoke menthol cigarettes; menthol makes it easier to start - and harder to quit smoking. Cardiologist Dr. Keith Newby and Rita Miller, Tobacco Use and Dependence Treatment Coordinator with the Virginia Department of Health, talk about the dangers of smoking and offer specific ways to quit. Plus, Producer Lisa Godley has information on upcoming community events you won't want to miss.

Click to listen to episode (5:28).Sections below are the following:Transcript of AudioAudio Notes and AcknowledgmentsImagesSourcesRelated Water Radio EpisodesFor Virginia Teachers (Relevant SOLs, etc.)Unless otherwise noted, all Web addresses mentioned were functional as of 8-4-23. TRANSCRIPT OF AUDIO From the Cumberland Gap to the Atlantic Ocean, this is Virginia Water Radio for the weeks of August 7 and August 14, 2023. MUSIC – ~27 sec – Lyrics: “I'm gonna soak up the sun, I'm gonna dry out the river, I'm gonna run to the shimmering pond, until the summer comes….” That's part of “Until the Summer Comes,” by the Harrisonburg and Rockingham County, Va.-based band, The Steel Wheels.  It sets the stage for this episode's exploration of what one may hear and see when the summer comes to a southwestern Virginia pond on a hot July day.  On July 27, 2023, I visited a Blacksburg pond to listen and watch at four times during the day.  Have a listen for about 80 seconds to an audio post card of that pondside day and see what creatures you recognize.  Short breaks in the audio separate recordings at sunrise, mid-day, and sunset. SOUND – ~83 sec Some of the sounds you heard were a Louisiana Waterthrush beside the pond's outlet stream at sunrise; melodic Wood Thrushes at sunrise and sunset; a Belted Kingfisher at midday; and, as the day was ending, the buzzing of cicadas, the croaking trills of Gray Tree Frogs, the chittering of Chimney Swifts, and the eerie whistles of a Screech Owl.  Throughout most of the day one could also hear various other birds, such as cardinals, crows, and towhees, along with the occasional “thunk” of a Green Frog.Other sights of the day included a Great Blue Heron flying away from the pond at sunrise and returning at sunset; Cedar Waxwings feeding on pond insects; dragonflies and damselflies mating and defending territories; water striders skating on the pond surface; a slow-moving Snapping Turtle; and what might have been a mink diving into the pond's outlet stream. The small but information-rich book, A Golden Guide to Pond Life, notes that the various kinds of natural and human-constructed ponds have, quote, “ceaseless activity” in spring and summer, and that thousands of plants and animals live in or near ponds, lakes, and streams.  While the summer's still here, I hope you have time to explore a pond or some other aquatic world. Thanks to The Steel Wheels for permission to use this episode's music, and we close with about 25 more seconds of “Until the Summer Comes.” MUSIC – ~27 sec – Lyrics: “…until the summer comes.” SHIP'S BELL Virginia Water Radio is produced by the Virginia Water Resources Research Center, part of Virginia Tech's College of Natural Resources and Environment.  For more Virginia water sounds, music, or information, visit us online at virginiawaterradio.org, or call the Water Center at (540) 231-5624.  Thanks to Ben Cosgrove for his version of “Shenandoah” to open and close this episode.  In Blacksburg, I'm Alan Raflo, thanking you for listening, and wishing you health, wisdom, and good water. AUDIO NOTES AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS “Until the Summer Comes,” from the 2013 album “No More Rain,” is copyright by The Steel Wheels, used with permission.  More information about The Steel Wheels is available online at http://www.thesteelwheels.com/.  This music was used previously by Virginia Water Radio in Episode 569, 3-22-21. This episode's sounds were recorded by Virginia Water Radio beside a pond at a private residence in Blacksburg, Va., on July 27, 2023. Virginia Water Radio thanks Virginia Water Resources Research Center Director Stephen Schoenholtz for his help with this episode. Click here if you'd like to hear the full version (2 min./22 sec.) of the “Shenandoah” arrangement/performance by Ben Cosgrove that opens and closes this episode.  More information about Mr. Cosgrove is available online at http://www.bencosgrove.com. IMAGESPond view at about 6:28 a.m.Pond view at 8:05 p.m. Water strider at 12:47 p.m. Dragonfly at 12:50 p.m. SOURCES Used for Audio George K. Reid, Pond Life (Golden Guide®), as revised by Jonathan P. Latimer et al., St. Martin's Press, New York, N.Y., 2001 (the “ceaseless activity” quote and the other information that the audio mentioned from this source were taken from pages 4, 5, 8, and 9.). For More Information about Ponds Let's Talk Science (Canada), “Introduction to Lakes & Ponds,” online at https://letstalkscience.ca/educational-resources/backgrounders/introduction-lakes-ponds.  New Hampshire PBS, “NatureWorks/Ponds,” online at https://nhpbs.org/natureworks/nwep7b.htm. Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, “Private Pond Management,” online at https://dwr.virginia.gov/fishing/private-pond-management/.  According to this source as of August 6, 2023, there are an estimated 80,000 ponds in Virginia. RELATED VIRGINIA WATER RADIO EPISODES All Water Radio episodes are listed by category at the Index link above (http://www.virginiawaterradio.org/p/index.html).  See particularly the following three subject categories; “Amphibians”; “Birds”: and “Rivers, Streams, and Other Surface Waters.” The Louisiana Waterthrush was featured in Episode 520, 4-13-20. Following are links to some other episodes related to ponds. Episode 82, 10-3-11 – an introduction to ponds.Episode 309, 3-28-16 – ponds as the setting for exploring temperature in animals.Episode 381, 8-14-17 – ponds as two of six water locations for sound recordings at midnight.Episode 404, 1-22-18 – ice on ponds. FOR VIRGINIA TEACHERS – RELATED STANDARDS OF LEARNING (SOLs) AND OTHER INFORMATION Following are some Virginia Standards of Learning (SOLs) that may be supported by this episode's audio/transcript, sources, or other information included in this post. 2020 Music SOLs SOLs at various grade levels that call for “examining the relationship of music to the other fine arts and other fields of knowledge.” 2018 Science SOLs Grades K-4: Living Systems and Processes2.5 – Living things are part of a system.3.5 – Aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems support a diversity of organisms.4.3 – Organisms, including humans, interact with one another and with the nonliving components in the ecosystem. Grades K-5: Earth and Space Systems3.7 – There is a water cycle and water is important to life on Earth. Grades K-5: Earth Resources4.8 – Virginia has important natural resources. Grade 66.6 – Water has unique physical properties and has a role in the natural and human-made environment.6.8 – Land and water have roles in watershed systems. Life ScienceLS.5 – Biotic and abiotic factors affect an ecosystem.LS.6     – Populations in a biological community interact and are interdependent.LS.8 – Change occurs in ecosystems, communities, populations, and organisms over time. Virginia's SOLs are available from the Virginia Department of Education, online at https://www.doe.virginia.gov/teaching-learning-assessment/instruction Following are links to Water Radio episodes (various topics) designed especially for certain K-12 grade levels. Episode 250, 1-26-15 – on boiling, for kindergarten through 3rd grade. Episode 255, 3-2-15 – on density, for 5th and 6th grade. Episode 282, 9-21-15 – on living vs. non-living, for kindergarten. Episode 309, 3-28-16 – on temperature regulation in animals, for kindergarten through 12th grade. Episode 333, 9-12-16 – on dissolved gases, especially dissolved oxygen in aquatic habitats, for 5th grade. Episode 404, 1-22-18 – on ice on ponds and lakes, for 4th through 8th grade. Episode 407, 2-12-18 – on snow chemistry and physics, for high school. Episode 483, 7-29-19 – on buoyancy and drag, for middle school and high school. Episode 524, 5-11-20 – on sounds by water-related animals, for elementary school through high school. Episode 531, 6-29-20 – on various ways that animals get water, for 3rd and 4th grade. Episode 539, 8-24-20 – on basic numbers and facts about Virginia's water resources, for 4th and 6th grade. Episode 606, 12-6-21 – on freezing and ice, for kindergarten through 3rd grade.

CLICK HERE to listen to episode audio (5:58).Sections below are the following: Transcript of Audio Audio Notes and Acknowledgments ImagesExtra InformationSources Related Water Radio Episodes For Virginia Teachers (Relevant SOLs, etc.). Unless otherwise noted, all Web addresses mentioned were functional as of 7-21-23. TRANSCRIPT OF AUDIO From the Cumberland Gap to the Atlantic Ocean, this is Virginia Water Radio for the weeks of July 24 and July 31, 2023.  This is a revised version of an episode from July 2013. SOUND – ~7 sec That underwater sound, recorded by a kayaker on Virginia's Appomattox River, opens an episode about how scientists and resource managers learn about the finned creatures that live underwater.  We start with some mystery sounds.  Have a listen for about 30 seconds, and see if you can guess what's going on with this beeping and splashing.  And here's a hint:  If a finned creature detects this signal, it might soon have a stunning experience. SOUNDS AND VOICES – ~27 sec – “Everybody's hands out of the water?”  Beeping and splashing.  “Ok, whenever you all are ready, you can pull it.... One, two, three...” If you guessed fish sampling, you're right!  Those were sounds from an electrofishing demonstration, during a May 2013 Virginia Master Naturalist field trip about fish in streams and rivers.  The demonstration was led by Jamie Roberts, who at the time was a Virginia Tech research scientist and as of 2023 is an associate professor of fisheries at Georgia Southern University.  Participants learned about fish-assessment techniques commonly used by fishery managers and by fish scientists, known as ichthyologists.  For some more details on fish sampling in streams, let's listen to a two-minute excerpt from Dr. Roberts' session. GUEST VOICE - ~2 min./2 sec.“So one of the things I want us to notice as we're sampling is what we catch with different types of gears, with different types of methods, and then what we catch in different types of habitats. “So there's really, essentially three different types of habitats that we have here [in a stream].  You have that shallow, turbulent stuff [that] we in the stream ecology world tend to call riffles; you have these, sort of, deep, deeper still somewhat high velocity areas called runs; and you have still waters, which we call pools.  And the three gear types that I wanna play with are...electrofishing with a dip net, which we'll do in pools; electrofishing into a stationary seine—so this is a seine net; and then sweeping a seine around like crazy and just seeing what we can get, like an old-time ichthyologist.  We'll do some sampling that is more like the golden days of ichthyology, before we had $10,000 electrofishers. “Icthyologists often rely on electrofishers of one type or another to catch fish, because it sort of brings fish out of the woodwork.  Fish are in this environment that's very difficult for us to access and see through and everything, and electricity is sort of the equalizer; it makes fish a lot easier to catch.  There are electrofishers that are mounted on boats; there are electrofishers that are barges that you tow around; and this is called a backpack electrofisher.  It's powered by a DC battery that looks a lot like a motorcycle battery.  And it produces electricity that this fancy box turns into the correct frequency and wavelength and pulse type to momentarily stun fish, and while they're stunned, we net ‘em; and as soon as they get out of the electrical field, if we've done everything like we're supposed to, they just immediately come back.  So if we throw them in a bucket, they should immediately regain normal composure.” As Jamie Roberts noted, fish live in an environment largely hidden from unaided human vision or hearing.  So scientists and resource managers combine ancient technologies—like nets—with modern electronics to get the information needed to understand and properly manage fish and the aquatic areas that sustain them. Thanks to Dr. Roberts and the New River Valley Master Naturalist chapter for permission to record the fish-sampling session.  Thanks also to Raven Harris for the Appomattox River sounds.  We close with a musical selection whose title describes the water world of many fish.  Here's about 25 seconds of “The Deep Blue Green,” by Andrew VanNostrand. MUSIC - ~27 sec – instrumental. SHIP'S BELL Virginia Water Radio is produced by the Virginia Water Resources Research Center, part of Virginia Tech's College of Natural Resources and Environment.  For more Virginia water sounds, music, or information, visit us online at virginiawaterradio.org, or call the Water Center at (540) 231-5624.  Thanks to Stewart Scales for his banjo version of “Cripple Creek” to open and close this episode.  In Blacksburg, I'm Alan Raflo, thanking you for listening, and wishing you health, wisdom, and good water. AUDIO NOTES AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This Virginia Water Radio episode revises and replaces Episode 172, 7-29-13. The Appomattox River sounds were recorded by Raven Harris on the Appomattox River in Petersburg, Va., on April 18, 2014; used with permission. The fish sampling sounds and talk by Dr. Jamie Roberts were May 13, 2013, along Toms Creek in Montgomery County, Virginia, at a class of the New River Valley Chapter of the Virginia Master Naturalists Program.  Thanks to Jamie Roberts and to participants in that Master Naturalist class for permission to record the session. “The Deep Blue Green,” from the 2019 album “That We Could Find a Way to Be,” is copyright by Andrew VanNorstrand, used with permission.  More information about Andrew VanNorstrand is available online at https://greatbearrecords.bandcamp.com/.  This music was used previously by Virginia Water Radio most recently in Episode 632, 7-18-22. Click here if you'd like to hear the full version (1 min./11 sec.) of the “Cripple Creek” arrangement/performance by Stewart Scales that opens and closes this episode.  More information about Mr. Scales and the group New Standard, with which Mr. Scales plays, is available online at http://newstandardbluegrass.com. IMAGES Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (now Department of Wildlife Resources) personnel giving a backpack electrofishing demonstration to the Virginia Master Naturalists/New River Valley Chapter at Toms Creek in Montgomery County on May 6, 2013.  Photo by Bill Sydor, courtesy of New River Valley Master Naturalists Chapter.Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (now Department of Wildlife Resources) personnel leading a seining demonstration to the Virginia Master Naturalists/New River Valley Chapter at Toms Creek in Montgomery County on May 6, 2013.  Photo by Shannon Ritter, courtesy of New River Valley Master Naturalists Chapter.Jess Jones (left), co-director of the Freshwater Mollusk Conservation Center at Virginia Tech, examining the settings on a backpack electrofishing device, in the North Fork Holston River in Saltville, Va. (Smyth County), June 19, 2018.  Photo by Virginia Water Radio.EXTRA INFORMATION ABOUT ELECTROFISHING The following information on electrofishing is quoted from the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources blog, Alex McCrickard, “Not Too Shocking: Your Electrofishing Questions Answered,” by Alex McCrickard, November 9, 2020, online at https://dwr.virginia.gov/blog/not-too-shocking-your-electrofishing-questions-answered/, accessed July 17, 2023. “Have you watched some of the videos from aquatic biologists at the Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) and seen a boat outfitted with long, wand-like poles with dangling cables?  Have you ever showed up to a river or stream and witnessed a crew of biologists with large backpacks and long rods extending into the water?  This unusual-looking activity is called electrofishing, and it's modern science in action. “As Virginia's state fish and wildlife agency, DWR is responsible for the management of our fish and wildlife resources for the benefit of the public.  Our agency staff work hard to conserve and protect our freshwater fisheries across the Commonwealth.  The best way to monitor the health of fish populations is to catch a number of fish from one area at one time.  While our aquatics biologists are all excellent anglers, there is a more efficient, safe, and effective way to catch the fish!  Electrofishing is a common method used in fisheries science; this type of biomonitoring is truly one of the most effective ways to monitor our fisheries. “Fish can really help tell the story of the health of a certain waterbody.  They are in the water 24/7 and are constantly exposed to the elements.  Some species are more tolerant to pollution than others.  The make-up and diversity of a water body's fish population can help tell the story of water quality and inform our agency's biologists.  In turn, all of this influences sound management decisions that can improve habitat, water quality, and fish health, which benefits the general public and anglers who cherish Virginia's freshwater resources. “So, you now might be wondering what exactly happens during electrofishing?  What's going on behind the scenes during these surveys?  Our electrofishing FAQs below cover these basics. “What is electrofishing? “Electrofishing is a technique used in fisheries science to sample fish populations.  Sampling is when biologists study a number of fish from a certain area, measuring and examining them and recording the statistics.  When biologists electrofish, a generator or battery gives off an electrical current that runs through the water.  Volts, amps, and frequency can be adjusted based on water temperature, conductivity, and other variables.  Electrofishing can take place on foot with a backpack unit on a small stream or river.  For larger rivers and lakes, electrofishing typically takes place from a boat or barge. “From a boat, the anodes enter the water from a long boom off the bow.  Electrical current travels from anode cables back to the cathode(s)–in many cases, the metal hull of the boat acts as the cathode.  The electrical field typically expands 5 to 7 feet in circumference from each anode and down about 6 to 7 feet.  The size of the electrical field can vary depending on conductivity, voltage, and frequency of electrical current. “Fish are temporarily stunned as the electrical current causes their muscles to contract.  The fish then float towards the surface where they can be easily netted. “Is electrofishing harmful to fish? “Electrofishing has the potential to be harmful if not used properly; however, biologists have the training and experience to operate the equipment safely and effectively while minimizing impacts to fish.  Prior to any sampling, biologists adjust and monitor electrofishing settings to the target species in a particular habit. In some cases, electroshocking is avoided during spawning periods and habitats of certain rare and endangered species to eliminate even the perception of harm. “Does electrofishing affect different species of fish differently? “Yes, the frequency of the electromagnetic current can affect species differently.  For example, low frequency electrofishing tends to only affect catfish species.  When we sample tidal rivers to assess the catfish populations, we solely use low frequency.  High frequency sampling is often used for standard community assessment of multiple species.  Because of their larger surface area, big fish such as bass and muskie are more susceptible to electroshocking than small fish such as minnows and darters. “Electrofishing is only efficient in shallow water, so sampling is usually conducted when all species and sizes of interest are likely to be vulnerable to this technique. “Why do DWR biologists electrofish?  What's the goal for sampling and what do DWR biologists do with the fish during electrofishing? “Electrofishing is an effective method to assess the health of a fishery in a non-lethal manner.  It allows biologists to evaluate the health, variety, size distribution, and abundance of fish species on a given body of water and how that population can change over time.  Length and weight measurements further allow biologists to assess overall fishery health.  This type of sampling allows DWR to look at interactions within a fish population.  Furthermore, we can track status of endangered and threatened species or the status of spread of any invasive species.  All of this information influences sound management decisions that benefit the public who recreate on these resources. “Is electrofishing safe for the DWR biologists? “Yes, because of their training and experience, DWR biologists are safe when electrofishing.  Our biologists wear non-breathable waders that keep them from being shocked while using backpack electrofishing units.  For electrofishing boats, numerous electric cut-offs are in place to prevent accidents, and the boat is grounded.  All DWR biologists wear personal flotation devices while sampling on boats.  DWR biologists have also had formal training in electrofishing principles and techniques (for example the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service electrofishing course), which contributes to the safe operation of electrofishing gear. “In what kinds of waters do you electrofish? “Electrofishing takes place in freshwater and tidal freshwater rivers and streams.  Because of the high conductivity of saltwater, it is not conducive to electrofishing. “Can anglers use electrofishing equipment to catch fish? “No, it is unlawful for the general public to use electrofishing equipment to catch fish.” SOURCES Used for Audio Alex McCrickard, “Not Too Shocking: Your Electrofishing Questions Answered,” Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, November 9, 2020, online at https://dwr.virginia.gov/blog/not-too-shocking-your-electrofishing-questions-answered/. Stephen R. Moulton II, Jonathan G. Kennen, Robert M. Goldstein, and Julie A. Hambrook, “Revised Protocols for Sampling Algal, Invertebrate, and Fish Communities as Part of the National Water-Quality Assessment Program,” U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 02-150, online at http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2002/ofr-02-150/. National Park Service, “What Lies Beneath: How Electrofishing and Environmental DNA Is Being Used to Monitor and Conserve Fish Species in Great Smoky Mountain National Park,” April 8, 2021, online at https://www.nps.gov/articles/000/what-lies-beneath-how-electrofishing-and-environmental-dna-is-being-used-to-monitor-and-conserve-fish-species-in-great-smoky-mountain-national-park.htm. Jordanna Sheermohamed, “Sea Science: Why is the ocean blue, green and everything in between?”  The Triton, April 24, 2019. Virginia Master Naturalists Program, online at http://www.virginiamasternatu

Rod Arquette Show Daily Rundown – Thursday, July 20, 20234:20 pm: Terry Schilling, President of the American Principles Project, joins Rod for a conversation about a new Virginia Department of Education rule that prohibits schools, and school districts, from allowing students to use a different name or pronoun without parental permission.4:38 pm: Shawn Teigen, President of the Utah Foundation, joins the program for a conversation about his op-ed piece in the Deseret News on ways to make Utah safer for bicycles.5:05 pm: Former Utah Congressman Jason Chaffetz, now a Fox News analyst, joins the show for a conversation about the IRS whistleblowers in the Hunter Biden case.6:05 pm: David Christopher Kaufman of the New York Post joins Rod for a conversation about his piece on why both parties need the Gen-X independent voters on their side.6:20 pm: Peter Berkowitz, a Senior Fellow with the Hoover Institution at Stanford University, joins the program to discuss his piece for Real Clear Politics about the roots of critical race theory.6:38 pm: Representative Steve Eliason joins Rod for a conversation about the effectiveness of the national 988 suicide hotline on its one-year anniversary.6:50 pm: Candice Hasenyager, Director of the Utah Division of Water Resources joins the program for a conversation about how, following a strong winter, we can make the water we have last longer.

SFC (Ret) Robert Joseph Hayes (Joe) was born on June 11,1949, in Richmond, VA, to the late Robert and Patricia Frances Hayes. He died on July 8, 2023 at the age of 74. He was a decorated Veteran of the Vietnam War; enlisting in the Army in 1970 and serving our national defense dutifully for over 20 years retiring in 1990. Even though he retired from the Military; he always stayed a “soldier at heart”. He graduated from VCU with a M.S. in Business/Computer Science; and worked for the Virginia Department of Education and the City of Richmond as a...Article LinkSupport the show

The city of Richmond has chosen acting Chief of Police Rick Edwards as its new chief; A number of organizations and individuals have voiced opinions, following Tuesday's release of guidelines around trans students in public schools from the Virginia Department of Education; Virginia Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine have announced $44 million dollars for the state's 10 airports. 

On this week's episode, Bishop Burbidge: Commends the Virginia Department of Education on issuing updated model policies for public schools  Read his joint statement with Bishop Knestout and find a link to the full policy document  Summarizes his keynote address to pro-life leaders from across the country at a recent leadership conference in Toledo, OH Describes the beauty of a new church for the St. Ambrose community, dedicated last weekend  Expounds upon the upcoming Synod on Synodality following the announcement of Vatican-appointed participants  Find a link to the full list of voting delegates and learn more about the Synod of Bishops  Bishop also answers the following questions from the faithful:    Have you had any surprises during your time as chairman of pro-life activities at the USCCB?  What would you consider to be the main impetus for lapsed Catholics returning to the Church? 

Fresh off his first 100 days in the role, we sit down with Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Gerald Lackey. Stacked with a Ph.D. in social psychology and a career background in business transformation and operational efficiency, Gerald discusses his vision for the state agency, the challenges it faces, and how he's working to “unlock” hidden talent around the newly energized 2,000-employee statewide organization. We also chat about about electrification, the DMV mainframe, a new DMV website, the history of DMVs, and even digital license plates. Finally, Gerald touches briefly on topics pertinent to dealers — and of course, you'll learn what kind of car he drives. Follow Gerald on LinkedIn

The Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services recently released revised guidelines for state Medicaid disability waiver programs which would allow certain family members who provide caregiving services for their child or spouse with disabilities to be paid directly by the state. The move comes after outcry from hundreds of families and letters from state Democrats critical of the initial guidelines prohibiting this option that DMAS – which oversees the state's Developmental Disabilities Home and Community-Based Services waiver programs – submitted to the federal government in May. This option has been available in Virginia since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic,...Article LinkSupport the show

The Virginia Department of Education has issued new model policies for transgender students; The Virginia Department of Education has paused a grant program that helped people of color obtain full teaching credentials; The Virginia NAACP expressed concern Tuesday over the Youngkin Administration's approach to restoring the voting rights of people who have been convicted of a felony.

The Virginia Department of Social Services has received approval from the United States Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service to replace certain Supplemental  Nutrition  Assistance  Program, or SNAP, benefits stolen from  clients' Electronic  Benefits  Transfer cards, beginning July 17.   Under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023, Virginia can use federal funding to replace certain SNAP benefits stolen between Oct. 1, 2022 and Sept. 30, 2024 through card cloning, skimming and other fraudulent methods. Eligible SNAP benefits may also include Disaster SNAP and emergency allotments.   Pandemic Electronic Benefits Transfer benefits, also known as P-EBT benefits, established by the Families...Article LinkSupport the show

Virginians may now choose to indicate their blood type to include on their driver's license to assist first responders in the event of an emergency.   Citizens have the option to indicate their blood type when they renew or replace their driver's license or ID at dmv.virginia.gov or in-person at any Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles customer service center. Customers who are applying for a license or ID for the first time must visit a customer service center in person.   If you renew or replace your credential online, you will be prompted with a question whether you'd like to indicate...Article LinkSupport the show

Perpetuate pandemonium on this July 14, the 195th day of a year we're counting as the 2,023rd. But today is National Pandemonium Day which has nothing to do with the black and white animal that is not actually a bear. You'll have to wait until March 16 for National Panda Day, which I will hope will be less chaotic than this one. I'm Sean Tubbs and with training, you can be too. In today's edition:* The Virginia Department of Elections has published the official list of candidates for this year's General Assembly races* A project to build a pedestrian bridge over the Rivanna River does not make the cut for the latest round of federal funds* The region's transportation planning body wants your input on a survey about transportation priorities for the next long range plan  This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit communityengagement.substack.com/subscribe

The number of Virginians changing the sex listed on their birth certificate more than doubled between 2020 and 2022 after the passage of a law streamlining the process for individuals wanting to do so. Previously, a person seeking to change the sex designation on their birth certificate had to provide the state registrar evidence that specific medical procedures had occurred as well as a court order. Now, a person can request the change by submitting the registrar a form from their health care provider stating “clinically appropriate treatment for gender transition” was provided. Virginia Department of Health Director of Communications...Article LinkSupport the show

Last summer, the 988 hotline for mental health emergencies launched in Virginia and nationwide as part of a federal effort to create a more streamlined approach to accessing crisis support for those in immediate need. After an initial spike in 988 calls during its rollout, 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline data shows the commonwealth now receives an average of almost 6,000 calls a month – up from over 4,300 a month in the year prior. Bill Howard, director of the Crisis Supports & Services division with the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS), said the average rate...Article LinkSupport the show

Households that need assistance to purchase or operate cooling equipment like an air conditioning system, fan, air conditioner or heat pump, may apply for funding through the Virginia Department of Social Services' Virginia Energy Assistance Program now through Aug. 15. To qualify, a household must have a child less than six years of age, an adult 60 years or older, or a person living with a disability. Income requirements, which are based on a household's gross monthly income (before taxes), can be found here (available in English and Spanish). Individuals and families in need of cooling assistance are encouraged to...Article LinkSupport the show

Welcome to the last day of the fiscal year of 2023, a day that perhaps could use a few carols and celebrations. Perhaps such things will occur in the future if Charlottesville Community Engagement can return to full form? Either way, this is also the 550th edition of a newsletter and podcast intended to bring people information about things happening as we head into a summer holiday slowdown. I'm Sean Tubbs. On today's program: * UVa reacts to yesterday's Supreme Court ruling on affirmative action * One of Albemarle County's swimming lakes is closed due to an algae bloom* A very small percentage of Albemarle County's population responds to a survey on the Comprehensive Plan* Two groups seeking to promote entrepreneurship receive $300,000 from Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development * New pickleball courts coming to Farmington and more development news from Albemarle County Charlottesville Community Engagement is a unique publication with a lot of stories about what's happening in the community. Consider becoming a free or paid subscriber! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit communityengagement.substack.com/subscribe