Let the Magic Begin,
   Day 1 Linda Koestal with a wave of her magic wand opened the convention
saying the magic wasn't just because we were at the Disney capital but the
magic was in being with old friends and making new ones and learning about our
wonderful hobby. Followed by opening words from Central Florida President Ray
Wichus and our COA President Dave Green also welcomed us.
  I (Carole Marshall) was the first speaker, I tried to aquaint everyone on
some characteristics of identifying Pectens, What some of the criteria were to
separate species and gave a few examples of look alike Pectens and how they
differ.
  Hank Foglino, with his usual mix of humor and fact explained about El Nino,
and how it was a natural cycle with doughnuts of air circling the equator and
what happened when they stall. His basic conclusion was that this was a good
thing, bringing rain to areas that usually do not get any rain and leaving
areas of the world dry for areas that usually get too much rain.
  Bobby Cordy went into detail on how to exhibit at a shell show. Proper
labels, neatness etc. It was an excellent program for those who wish to
compete in a shell show and haven't quite gotten the grasp of having a prize
winning exhibit.
  Gary Rosenberg stressed the need, not only for non-academics but academic
unity in compiling important data bases. With a little planning now, before we
get to a point of no return, the major scientific data bases should be using
one format that would be accessable and usable to everyone.
   The hotel is beautiful, the weather was just right today with our usual and
normal afternoon showers. There is no sign of any wild fires. We were all free
for a couple of hours while the set up for the Welcome Party was being done.
  The Welcome Party was very nice. Plenty of food, strolling magicians and a
people quest. Linda had a FIND THE PERSON GAME. You know, who is the tallest,
who's from Brazil, I am afraid Jose Coltro was besieged on that one as well as
his lovely wife. There was one people quest that I think stumped everyone. Who
has never ridden in an airplane? I never did find anyone who hadn't ridden in
a plane, even the tiniest baby has ridden in a plane. Is this a wonderful
world?
  In between, a lot of visiting, a personal preview of Art Weil"s new book and
talking talking ,talking. Having fun y'all, Wish you were here too!