Hatfield Visit and Introduction

[Glazed]

First, please have patience with me as I get comfortable manuevering around the site. Second, I wanted to thank everyone who visited the Science Center this Sunday. I hope you enjoyed the tour, Newport and the beaches - I always enjoy talking with those deeply involved in ornamental fish keeping of all types. I learn so much with each get together. Also, it really feels like we have set the ground work for a very productive relationship between PNWMAS and the Ornamental Fish Health Program. The possibilities are endless, and I am very anxious to begin working on ways to incorporate the many ideas we discussed - again, please be patient, things work pretty slow around here!

 

As for somewhat of an introduction of myself: I graduated from Oregon Coast Community College's Aquarium Science Program over a year ago. I was enrolled in the very first class to go through the program, and have developed a very close affection for the program. At the very least I can say the program cranks out responsible, energetic individuals that love this world of aquatic animals.

 

While enrolled in the program I had the good fortune, if not blessing to hook up with Dr. Miller-Morgan. As many of you are aware of, I was very instrumental in building the Visitor Center's Wet Pet Room. Dr. Tim and I have talked so much about improving the room, but haven't found the means and ways to do that until now, after talking with you all. Again, this is very exciting stuff!

 

Eventually, Dr. Tim hired me as his full time assistant and my job title became Aquatic Animal Husbandry and Health Specialist. Wow! That's a mouthful to say. Our primary concern is fish health and being available to help hobbyist, retailers, wholesalers, club memebers etc. in any way we possibly can.

 

Amazingly, considering how much and how long I have loved ornamental fish keeping, and with my last four years of experience, one might think I had acquired tons of valuable information concerning the trade, and I have, but I am certain not on the knowledge level of you all. Basically, in a few choice areas I feel well qualified to hold my own, but in many areas I fell like a rookie and so I look forward to gaining volumes of knowledge from you all.

[reefgeek84]

I did not go, but sounds like it was a great time. And it is a pleasure having you aboard.

[dsoz]

welcome to the group. I also did not go, but it sounds like a good time was had by all.

 

dsoz

[Michael7979]

Well I did go!

Had a good time and there was some very interesting things to see!

Must have been longer then I thought since I last visited the HMSC. Seemed bigger and had things that I don't recall being there. Everyone at the HMSC was really energetic and eager to answer questions.

 

Glad to see you found the boards and are going to be stopping by from time to time and sharing information and joining in on other topics.

 

Welcome!

[impur]

The HMSC tour was great! Thanks so much! And welcome to the site

[biomekanic]

Welcome aboard!

 

The people here are a great resource for providing knowledge, and IMO, something even more important sometimes, encouragement.

 

My only request is a mantis shrimp habitat.

[JManrow]

Welcome to our site Dennis!

Our group had a great time at HMSC Sunday.

What do you think of our site and forum? Yeah, I know... we have our share of crazies here. It keeps things interesting! (laugh)

 

We are looking forward to more involvement with HMSC in the near future. I am sure hobbyists, retailers, and wholesalers will jump at the opportunity to participate in educational seminars and workshops!

 

The upcoming Coral Farmer's Market and the PNWMAS BBQ will both be good opportunities to become familiar will some of them. Feel free to ask questions here at the site. You will no doubt be asked a few too!

You will see that we have a lot of fun here, as well as help each other and educate. PNWMAS is not a boring group! Keep on posting!