Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team Pond Blog

Vernal Pool Exploration this Sunday with MECT

Richard Roth — Fri, 05 Apr 2019 13:00:00 GMT

I'll be doing a daytime walk for Manchester/Essex Conservation Trust on Sunday April 7. We meet at Andrews Street and Southern Avenue in Essex at 3pm. Go to our activity calendar or Manchester Essex Conservation Trust page for more information on the Vernal Pool Exploration event.

Field Trip #2 Recap

Richard Roth — Thu, 04 Apr 2019 14:47:33 GMT

We had a nice field trip last night at Nugents Stretch. We heard a fairly good chorus of spring peepers and wood frogs. We saw spotted sals, wood frogs, fairy shrimp and caddisfly larvae. Matt Curran spotted a lone spotted sal egg mass. There's going to be colder temps for a while and no rain until Monday, but there's a lot more action to come.. Keep watching your e-blasts.

Nighttime Vernal Pond Field Trip #2 recap

Richard Roth — Mon, 01 Apr 2019 13:30:00 GMT

We had a nice field trip last night to Nugent's Stretch. Good choruses of wood frogs and spring peepers. We saw plenty of wood frogs and a few spring spring peepers, a few dozen spotted salamanders including a congress complete with spermatophores, caddisfly larvae and fairy shrimp. I think the forecasted cooler temps will shut things down for a while. Keep watching your e-blasts.

Vernal Pond Field Trip #1 tomorrow night

Richard Roth — Sun, 31 Mar 2019 20:30:00 GMT

Looks like we're going to get some rain today. I think it will taper off by evening... however the forest floor should remain wet for a while. Some of our observation pools are free of ice. So... I'd say let's do a field trip tonight at 9pm. If you haven't ever gone on one of these, check out the field trip guidelines on our website. Dress for the weather and bring your best flashlight.

I've been checking the pools...

Richard Roth — Sat, 30 Mar 2019 01:30:00 GMT

I've been checking the pools. Heard some wood frogs this afternoon at Ravenswood and Nugent's Stretch. First time this year. Our viewing ponds are still at least 80% frozen. The rain is supposed to stop. I don't think its going to be a good night for frog and salamander action. Right now its looking like Sunday night might be good. Keep checking your e-blasts.

Help our new store called THE SHOP!

Richard Roth — Fri, 29 Mar 2019 14:58:34 GMT

We are looking for a couple of items for THE SHOP including a nice wooden bookshelf and a few small entryway rugs with rubber backing or a large one about 4 feet wide by 6 or 8 feet long. Let us know if you would like to donate them to our office/store. If you know of someone who is downsizing and has some cool stuff for THE SHOP please tell them about us and the work we do.

Our Newsletter is on its way...

Richard Roth — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 17:30:00 GMT

Your newsletter is on its way to your houses... if you're on our snail mail list. If you're not... and you want to be, just email us your address. Or... you can read it on our website, capeannvernalpondteam.org for your perusal.

Scouting vernal ponds for action

Richard Roth — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 17:30:00 GMT

Meanwhile, I've been checking the vernal ponds. Some have less than 50% surface ice. Others have more than 85% surface ice. I haven't heard any wood frogs calling yet. So it looks like we are at least a couple days away from any nighttime field trips. Keep watching your e-blasts and try to join us for one of these trips. They are amazing.

Scouting all vernal ponds... field trips coming up soon

Richard Roth — Sat, 23 Mar 2019 15:05:32 GMT

Nighttime field trips could be happening soon. I've been checking the pools. Most still have about 75% ice. But, the warmer weather is on the way. I think we're still a few days away. Keep an eye on your E-Blasts.

Annual Meeting coming up March 25th

Richard Roth — Sat, 23 Mar 2019 15:03:41 GMT

Our Annal Meeting is Monday, March 25 at 6pm at our new office at 242 Main Street #5 in Gloucester. Right next to Nelsons Clothing Store. Please let us know if you plan to attend. We're just getting set up and we want to know how many chairs to bring.

Annual Meeting open to the public

Richard Roth — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 02:00:00 GMT

On Monday, March 25th at 6:00 pm we'll be holding our Annual Meeting at our new home at 242 Main Street #5 (just left of Nelson's) in downtown Gloucester. It's open to the public. Hope you can make it.

Highlights of being a part of the Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team

Richard Roth — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 01:00:00 GMT

One of the highlights of being a part of the Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team is our Nighttime Vernal Pond Field Trips. Going into nature at night is a unique experience and some amazing things are found in vernal ponds. Go to our website to review our Field Trip Guidelines.

Wow, look at all the upcoming Volunteer opportunities for you calendar

Richard Roth — Thu, 14 Mar 2019 15:09:21 GMT

We are really gearing up for our activities this year. Go to our Activity Calendar. You'll find information about upcoming scheduled events like a Vernal Pond Walk, Earth Day activities, Essex STEM Night, Pride Stride, Motif 1 Day, Yard Sale, and more. Get 'em on your calendar early and have some fun volunteering while helping educate the public!

Upcoming Annual Public Board Meeting

Richard Roth — Thu, 21 Feb 2019 02:30:00 GMT

The Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team Board will host our Annual Board Meeting on Monday, March 25th from 6-8pm to discuss a number of agenda items... including plans for our Vision, Funding and Grant opportunities, scoping out new pools for certification, upcoming Nighttime field trips, and a few other important matters. This meeting is open to the public so please come if you can and bring your ideas and motivation. You'll also be able to check out our new digs.

Essex STEM night was incredible

Richard Roth — Wed, 20 Feb 2019 16:11:43 GMT

We had one tres cool snake show at the Essex Library this afternoon. About 100 people showed up, mostly kids. Thanks to our courageous volunteers: Colleen Anderson, Diane Bevins, Vicky Cataldo, Nathan Mineo and Pia, one of the moms who showed up and had no idea she would end up volunteering to walk the snakes around the room. Snakes were well-behaved and everybody had a good time.

THANK YOU ALL for making our programs available to so many!

Richard Roth — Fri, 18 Jan 2019 03:00:00 GMT

As we kind of wind down for the season, I want to thank all of you for making 2018 such a great year. We really did a bunch of good stuff. Most of you have received your Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team Annual Appeal. Many of you have responded with generous donations as well. Thank you for all you do to help save our little corner of the world.

Bridge Cape Ann's Fall Fest this Saturday.

Richard Roth — Fri, 05 Oct 2018 00:40:44 GMT

Next activity in two days... Saturday October 6, 2018 11am-3pm. Bridge Cape Ann's Annual Fall Fest at Cape Ann's Marina Resort, 75 Essex Ave., Gloucester. The forecasted temperature is 62 degrees which is just warm enough for our critters. So please get in touch and let me know if you can help out. Setup at 10am.

Stem Discovery Night was great fun.

Richard Roth — Fri, 05 Oct 2018 00:38:51 GMT

We had a great time at the STEM Discovery Night in South Hamilton last night. We had a lovely snake exhibit and a great crew of volunteers: Logan, Jaclyn, Anya, Devin and Jessica Lichtenwald, Faye Grandson, Dylan Gaetano, Colleen Anderson, Ethan Everett, Mathew, Christopher and Rachel Rex. Thanks to Lorraine Miller for inviting us.

Next show is STEM Discovery Night

Richard Roth — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 17:01:55 GMT

Next show is STEM Discovery Night for Middle and High Schoolers this Wednesday October 3rd from 6:30-8:30pm. It's being held at Miles River Middle School (which is connected to the Hamilton-Wenham High School) 787 Bay Road, South Hamilton. Setup is from 5-6pm. We have some volunteers. Might need a few more especially for setup. Should be a neat event, they're expecting 500 students.

Nice show at the Sustainability Fair in Gloucester

Richard Roth — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 16:58:36 GMT

We had a nice show at the Sustainability Fair on Saturday. On the down side, the attendance was lower than years past. On the upside, we had a great display and more time to talk with each person that came by. Thanks to our volunteers: Sawyer and Shane Towne, Marion Healey, Faye Grandson, Colleen Anderson, Ernie Cutis, Ann Byers, Mat Rex, Harrison McKeen, Logan, Jaclyn and Anya Lichtenwald.

Cape Ann Sustainability Fair coming up this Saturday the 29th

Richard Roth — Mon, 24 Sep 2018 02:11:51 GMT

This Saturday September 29, 2018 we'll be at the Cape Ann Sustainability Fair at O'Maley School from 10am to 4pm. Set up at 9am. I suspect we will show up with the usual cast of critters. And... um, oh yes, we'll need volunteers.

More information on our activity calendar.

Crow Fest was the Best.

Richard Roth — Mon, 24 Sep 2018 02:10:45 GMT

We had a nice time at the Crow Fest yesterday with our frogs, snakes, salamanders and turtles. Thank you to our volunteers: Ann Byers, Sawyer and Shane Towne, Faye Grandson, and Colleen Anderson. And thanks to Kate Noonan from the Common Crow for inviting us.

Look what's next... no rest when it comes to saving our corner of the planet.

Richard Roth — Thu, 20 Sep 2018 15:03:26 GMT

Are we done for this year? I don't think so...

Saturday September 22, 2018 Crow Fest at the Common Crow. It's from 10am-5pm. We'll be there with some critters and we'll need some volunteers.

Saturday September 29 Cape Ann Sustainability Fair at O'Maley School. It's from 10am-4pm. Volunteers needed.

Wednesday October 3 STEM Discovery Night at Hamilton-Wenham High School. Goes from 6:30-8:30pm. Should be a neat event, they're expecting 500 students.

Saturday October 6 Bridge Cape Ann Fall Fest at the Mile Marker. Runs from 11am-3pm. Critter display, if its not too cold. If its going to be below 60 degrees you get to stay home.

For more information on these events check out our... activity calendar.

A big thank you to our generous Sponsors!

Richard Roth — Thu, 20 Sep 2018 15:02:20 GMT

Well, I had a sense I was forgetting something in the last E-blast, but I sent it anyway and then realized I forgot to thank the sponsors. without which we hardly would have made anything. So... Thank you: Taormina Tile, TD Bank, New England Herpetological Society, Cape Ann Savings Bank, Bertone General Contracting and Good Harbor Graphics.

What a spectacular evening of fun and dance with THE FOOLS!

Richard Roth — Thu, 20 Sep 2018 15:00:35 GMT

Well... I know you're all waiting for the concert wrap up. It was really a great time, the action at the raffle table was brisk and lots of people went away with cool stuff. Thank you to all the people and businesses that donated all that cool stuff.

The Fools were fabulous, such a great, fun band. And they enjoyed the crowd... they said so. We brought turtles, frogs, salamanders and snakes, which were a big hit. The people at the Cape Ann Marina Resort were very good to us and made sure we had everything we needed. The other Rick Roth (he calls me the other Rick Roth) and his lovely bride Karen came all the way from Littleton and brought a few of their Creature Teacher critters. The cockatoo was dancing to the music.

All the bookkeeping hasn't been done yet... Hey, it takes a while. But Victoria has informed me we cleared about $2300. Yes, I would have liked to squeeze a few more people in there and sell out and make a few more bucks. But, it was a damn good crowd and I'm not complaining.

Our volunteers did an outstanding job, and we could never pull off the event without them: Thanks to Cora and Lila Hawks, Jon, Kate and Diane Bevins, Tracy Bowen, Marion and Jay Healey, Nick Taormina, Dylan Piscitello, Faye Grandson, Dylan Gaetano, Marisa Neves, Keith Bertone, Colleen Anderson, Lucee Williamson, Isaac Saunders, Sawyer Towne, Isabel Luz, Wendy Antrim, Anna DiPerna, Jayme Gordon and Victoria Rolf. Thanks to Cheryl Briscoe and Colleen for the superb posters!

Here comes The Fools on Saturday at the Mile Marker in Gloucester

Richard Roth — Thu, 13 Sep 2018 01:05:08 GMT

We had a nice write up in the Gloucester Daily Times today about our Benefit Concert. Thanks to Andrea Holbrook. While online ticket sales have been good, I'm hoping we'll get lots more. And, we still need some volunteers for the night of the event. So please get in touch and let me know if you can help out at the show. And, if you can't help, get those tickets and go. It's going to be a really fun night.

We have a super selection of spiffy stuff in our spectacular raffle including a beach cruiser bicycle, whale watch tickets, gift certificates to local restaurants and businesses, along with artwork by local artists. These items are definitely worth the trip!

Join us on Saturday for The Fools in concert at Mile Marker One in Gloucester. Its a benefit for Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team. We're having a very cool silent auction too. We'll be there from 7-11.

The Fools concert and silent auction to benefit the Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team

Richard Roth — Fri, 07 Sep 2018 23:41:30 GMT

Just 8 more days until our fundraising benefit with a silent auction and The Fools in concert. In addition, our own Rick Roth will be there with a host of volunteers and a snake display along with the other Rick Roth from Littleton MA with some of live animals. Have some fun with our critters, snack, and dance. It's really going to be a great time. Join us at Cape Ann's Marina Resort under the tent in Gloucester.

Upcoming Block Party and Concert with THE FOOLS

Richard Roth — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 13:54:08 GMT

Upcoming FUN, FUN, FUN

Gloucester Block Party
Saturday, August 11, 6-9pm
Main Street in front of Toodeloos

Our Benefit Concert featuring... The FOOLS
Saturday, September 15th, 7-11pm
The Mile Marker under the tent

Sidewalk Bazaar in the rearview...

Richard Roth — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 13:52:50 GMT

Brings up a point that I don't make often enough. If you look at all the cool stuff we are able to do (check out our website capeannvernalpondteam.org)... as I was saying, if you look at all the cool stuff we are able to do, none of it would happen without our fabulous volunteers. Thank you all for a wonderful job creating the awareness, doing the conservation and all the endless work that goes with it.

Sidewalk Bazaar Saturday

Richard Roth — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 00:30:00 GMT

Saturday we had a nice thing going until the rain showed up just after 11am. The whole crew started to dismantle the display: 2 tents, native snake display, display panels, flags and banners, sale items, a bunch of non-native snakes, and various other essentials. In just about 20 minutes, everything was broken down and loaded into my van and I was driving home.

Sidewalk Bazaar Friday

Richard Roth — Fri, 03 Aug 2018 22:30:00 GMT

The Sidewalk Bazaar... kind of toasty on Friday, and maybe that's the reason the event wasn't as well attended as in years past. We were still busy... because we had all those cool snakes. Thanks volunteers!

Sidewalk Bazaar

Richard Roth — Thu, 02 Aug 2018 20:12:30 GMT

Just checked the weather and while there are some scattered thundershowers predicted in the area, we will be under our tents. So... its a go. We will be there for setup at about 7:30 tomorrow morning.

Come down and volunteer

Turtle Trapping

Richard Roth — Thu, 21 Jun 2018 02:11:43 GMT

And... on Monday, after checking turtle traps in a wetland in West Gloucester for over a month... we finally caught a turtle. 12" snapper. He was quite angry about the whole thing. But, hey... at least we got a turtle. He got to go free again anyway.

Benefit Concert featuring The Fools on Sale NOW!

Richard Roth — Wed, 20 Jun 2018 15:00:00 GMT

Tickets on sale now for our Benefit Concert and Silent Auction featuring The Fools. Right here on our website!!!

Riverfest was exceptional!

Richard Roth — Tue, 19 Jun 2018 12:30:00 GMT

We had an exceptionally lovely snake show at Riverfest on Saturday in Sudbury. Great weather, great crowd and a great bunch of volunteers to complete the trifecta. Thanks to Gerry Swislow, Annette Huskins, Colleen Anderson, Jon and Diane Bevins and Mike Zaborowski. Really a fun time.

Riverfest this Saturday and we need Volunteers too.

Richard Roth — Wed, 13 Jun 2018 14:03:01 GMT

This Saturday is Riverfest on June 16. We will be Presenting Snakes of New England and the World at Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters in Sudbury from 1:00 - 2:00pm. More information on our Activity Calendar. You can find more information in their online brochure by scrolling down to Saturday, Sudbury, #16 Fishing and Family Festivities. We need some help with this one so let me know if you can volunteer.

Snakes Presentation for the Devereux School and Devereux at Waring kids.

Richard Roth — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 19:00:00 GMT

We were in Marblehead Monday doing our Snakes of New England and the World Presentation for about 70 kids from the Devereux School and Devereux at Waring School. We had great weather so we held the show outside with about 25 of our snakes. Great snakes and they were lucky enough to spend time bonding with the kids. Thanks to our volunteers: Stella Allen, Ella Strong, Wilhelmina Rolf Thaemert and Victoria Rolf.

AmazonSmile for a Great Nonprofit!

Richard Roth — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 14:21:19 GMT

We could use your help. It will take less than five minutes to accomplish... and by doing so you will financially support our mission when you use AmazonSmile. Please click our own unique link on our Support - Supportive Shopping page and you will bypass the charity selection process, and are automatically asked if you want to support us - Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team. It's so easy!

Strawberry Festival Fun!

Richard Roth — Wed, 06 Jun 2018 14:16:42 GMT

Nice time at the Strawberry Festival Saturday. Vernal Pond Exhibit and some of our favorite snakes. Great weather, big crowd. Thanks to our volunteers: Colleen Anderson, Steve McCrory, Ann Byers, Genna, Jay and Mathew Healey, and Anna DiPerna.

Audubon Nature Festival at Ipswich River

Richard Roth — Tue, 05 Jun 2018 21:00:00 GMT

Sunday I went to the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary in Topsfield for the Audubon Nature Festival with a Native Snake Exhibit. Lots of people, fun day. Thanks to Richard Wolniewicz for the invitation.

Riverfest at Great Meadows coming up.

Richard Roth — Mon, 04 Jun 2018 14:30:00 GMT

Our next public activity is Riverfest on June 16. We will be Presenting Snakes of New England and the World at Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters in Sudbury from 1:00 - 2:00pm. More information available on our Activity Calendar. Let me know if you can volunteer...

Yard Sale this Saturday from 9-1!

Richard Roth — Wed, 23 May 2018 14:54:13 GMT

After checking the weather for the fifty millionth time... the Yard Sale is on for this Saturday. We will need lots of volunteers for lugging stuff, pricing, selling, setup, breakdown, managing the CAVPT info tent, and a whole bunch of stuff that crops up. Please come down and help us with this fundraiser. Bring some of your stuff to sell. We will likely start setting up by 6am. Location is Rogers Street, right behind St. Peter's parking lot, Gloucester.

Crane Estate for The Trustees last Sunday

Richard Roth — Wed, 23 May 2018 01:13:21 GMT

Nice snake show at the Crane Estate on Sunday afternoon. The weather was sunny and warm despite the forecast and we held our Presentation outside in the beautiful setting of the old Casino. Thanks to our volunteers: Stella Allen, Wilhelmina Rolf Thaemert, Victoria Rolf, Keith Bertone and Colleen Anderson. And thanks to Dorothy Antczak for inviting us.

The Fools Concert tickets on sale now!

Victoria Rolf — Fri, 18 May 2018 14:11:46 GMT

Click on the link that follows for more information and to purchase tickets for The Fools. It's our biggest fundraiser of the year!

The Fools Concert and Silent Auction to benefit the
Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team

Crane Estate for The Trustees Snakes Presentation coming up

Richard Roth — Sun, 13 May 2018 01:10:38 GMT

On Sunday, May 20th from 2-3 pm at The Barn on the Crane Estate, Rick Roth, founder and executive director of the Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team and local snake expert, will present "Snakes of New England and the World." Rick cares for over 100 snakes of all different species -- even if we don’t find any slithering friends on our hunt, there will be plenty of snakes to see and learn about during the show!

Swamping for Vernal Pools

Richard Roth — Sun, 13 May 2018 01:09:17 GMT

Nick Taormina and I did some swamping this morning. We did the field work for three vernal pool certifications, and scouted some good areas to check out next year, as the season for certification is nearly over for this year.

Annual Yard Sale is coming up fast

Richard Roth — Fri, 11 May 2018 14:00:00 GMT

On Saturday, May 26th join us for our Annual Yard Sale behind St. Peter's parking lot. Drop off stuff between 7-9 am and the sale runs from 9-1. We'll have some sort of Exhibit too. We can use help with donations, running the sale, or the Exhibit -- so please volunteer.

Perley Elementary School Preschoolers

Richard Roth — Thu, 10 May 2018 18:30:00 GMT

We had a nice critter exhibit at the Perley School in Georgetown on Wednesday. Four groups of preschoolers who checked out our snakes, frogs, salamanders and assorted other goodies.

Lynn Woods Earth Fest today and Pride Stride tomorrow

Richard Roth — Sun, 29 Apr 2018 00:14:17 GMT

We had a nice snake show at Earth Fest at Lynn Woods. They get a huge crew out there in the morning to clean up the whole park. Then, back to the Ranger Station for pizza, live music and snakes. Perfect weather. We didn't have any volunteers besides me and Colleen, but we were able to recruit John, Rick, Yusef and Jida, and they did a great job.

Tomorrow, Pride Stride. I hope the weather is as nice as it was today. It's a little iffy. We plan to be set up after noon by the time the walkers return. They start their 3 mile walk at noon. We'll have a vernal pond display under our tent a some sort of snake thing.

Rick

5th Nighttime Vernal Pond Field Trip

Richard Roth — Thu, 26 Apr 2018 21:38:10 GMT

We had one cool field trip last night to Stillington. Not many human participants. Lots of spotted salamanders walking away from the pool, as they have finished their breeding activity, and a few walking to the pool to get started. Just a few wood frogs leaving the pool. Good chorus of spring peepers. Red backed salamanders, a toad, leeches and a caddisfly larva.

Scouting for Vernal Ponds

Richard Roth — Mon, 23 Apr 2018 18:00:00 GMT

And on Sunday Keith Bertone, Nick Taormina and I checked out some vernal pools in Gloucester, Danvers and Rockport. Some of them didn't turn out to be vernal pools, but I think we'll be submitting 5 more reports to the Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program. And we'll likely get to a few more pools in the next week or so. Board member Dave McKinnon has three more he can lead us to. If you know of any vernal pools that we don't know about, then you should email us... and soon, this is the time to certify.

Endicott College Earth Day Festivities

Richard Roth — Mon, 23 Apr 2018 14:30:00 GMT

Saturday we were at Endicott College in Beverly for their Earth Day Event. Vernal ponds and Snakes of New England and the World exhibits under our tent. Thanks to Ann Byers, Colleen Anderson, Marion, Genna and Jay Healey for volunteering. And thanks to Eric Owens for inviting us.

More activities this coming weekend!

Richard Roth — Mon, 23 Apr 2018 01:54:22 GMT

This coming weekend we have two more Earth Day activities... Lynn Woods Earth Fest on Saturday and Gloucester Pride Stride on Sunday. More information available on our Activity Calendar. We would love your help! Let us know.

Applied Materials Earth Day

Richard Roth — Mon, 23 Apr 2018 01:50:53 GMT

Friday we participated in the Applied Materials Earth Day at Blackburn Industrial Park. Lots of their employees came by to check out our vernal pond display. Thanks to our volunteers Ann Byers, Colleen Anderson and Viki Rolf. And to Casey Buckles for inviting us.

Need volunteers for 4 upcoming Earth Day Activities

Richard Roth — Sun, 15 Apr 2018 23:53:54 GMT

Meanwhile, we need help for Earth Day at Applied Materials in the Blackburn Industrial Park on Friday April 20, 2018, 11am-1pm. Vernal Pond display.

Earth Day at Endicott College on Saturday, April 21, 11am-3pm. Vernal Pond and Snakes display.

Plus two more the following weekend. Check out our Activity Calendar for more information on these activities and others.

Lucky Friday the 13th Nighttime Vernal Pond Field Trip!

Richard Roth — Sun, 15 Apr 2018 23:52:10 GMT

We had a cool field trip on Friday night to Ravenswood Park with about 25 participants. We went to Stillington for spotted salamanders. Lots of peepers and wood frogs seen and calling. Wood frog and Spotted salamander egg masses. Nice leech. Then to Long and Narrow for fairy shrimp. Great bunch of people, fun trip. If any of you have cool photies from this trip, and would like us to post them on our website, you get a photo credit of course, then please send them along.

Maybe it will warm up enough for another trip soon.

Vernal Ponds Présentation for the New England Herp Society

Richard Roth — Tue, 10 Apr 2018 22:53:53 GMT

We did a Vernal Ponds Presentation for the New England Herpetological Society at the New England Wildlife Center in South Weymouth on Sunday. We showed our Vernal Ponds DVD and our shiny new powerpoint presentation which was followed by a brief but meaningful field trip to a pool on the Center's property where we did manage to find 3 spotted salamander egg masses and a wood frog egg mass. Nice crowd, fun time.

Earth Day Activity at Endicott College

Richard Roth — Thu, 05 Apr 2018 13:30:00 GMT

And...since you're all going to be fired up about field trip season, I know you'll want to volunteer for the Earth Day event at Endicott College in Beverly. Saturday, April 21 from 11am to 3pm. We will likely have a vernal pond display and a snake display. And, don't forget our other three Earth Day events. Check the Activity Calendar on our website.

Well that sure was fun TONIGHT!

Richard Roth — Thu, 05 Apr 2018 03:00:00 GMT

The rain quit just in time for our field trip tonight. On the way in we saw about five Spotted salamanders migrating and then low and behold we saw hundreds of congressing salamanders in the pool. It was pretty wild down there with frenzied males trying to attract the females to their trail of spermatophores. We also saw fairy shrimp doing there ballet act for us. Spectacular.

Generator generously donated by our member

Richard Roth — Tue, 03 Apr 2018 23:30:00 GMT

I believe it was just last week we made a plea for a generator to keep our animals toasty in the event of a cold weather power outage. We are now the proud owners of a slightly used, and fully capable of our wattage requirements, generator from Rockport contractor Bill Elwell. Thank you Bill.

Our Newsletter is in the Mail!

Richard Roth — Mon, 02 Apr 2018 19:30:00 GMT

You may have received your Cape Ann Vernal Pond Team 2018 Newsletter by now. If you're not on our snail mail list, let me know. Or you can check it out on line. Thanks to our fabulous newsletter committee for making it happen... and it looks pretty amazing if I do say so myself. Biologist Nathan Mineo has an interesting article about Trees and ... well should read it.

First Vernal Pond Field Trip - Saw the Easter Bunny

Richard Roth — Sun, 01 Apr 2018 14:00:00 GMT

So... we had a nice little field trip last night to Long and Narrow in Ravenswood Park. We saw a nice array of spotted salamanders and a cheeseload of fairy shrimp, which delighted our guests of honor, Margaret and Pearl, Nicks' five-year-old twin nieces. Too cool for much frog action. We saw the Easter Bunny.
Stand by, the weather is going to warm up sometime. April fools...

Cadre of Volunteers needed for weekday activities during the school year.

Richard Roth — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 01:37:52 GMT

Are you off during the weekdays during the school year and want to help us out? This is a great opportunity to help us out when we really need it. Our young volunteers are in school and some of our adults have job commitments during the weekdays. We don’t do as many school presentations during the school year as we would like because its often difficult to get volunteers. We’re looking for a cadre of daytime volunteers.

Walk for us during Gloucester Pride Stride

Richard Roth — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 01:36:57 GMT

Are you a walker? Walk in the Gloucester Pride Stride at Stage Fort Park on April 29th which is designed as a walk-a-thon to raise money to support local nonprofits. You can walk for us and help us out by raising a few dollars in the process. We’ll also have a booth with some critters if the weather is suitable.

Field trips coming soon...

Richard Roth — Fri, 30 Mar 2018 01:36:16 GMT

Are you or the kids ready to head out in the evening and catch a glimpse of migrating and breeding at our local vernal ponds? We have some nighttime vernal pond field trips coming up so check your emails and we’ll let you know when the conditions are right and we’re ready to head out and see what we can find.

Annual Meeting coming up... get involved

Richard Roth — Tue, 20 Mar 2018 14:30:00 GMT

On Monday, March 26th at 6:00 pm we'll be holding our Annual Meeting at the Get Outside Center. It's open to the public. Hope you can make it.

Upcoming activities like Earth Fest, Pride Stride, Yard Sale and THE FOOLS!

Richard Roth — Mon, 19 Mar 2018 20:00:00 GMT

We are really gearing up for our activities this year. Use this link to access our Activity Calendar. You'll find information about upcoming scheduled events like Earth Fest, Pride Stride, Yard Sale, The Fools, and a host of upcoming presentations and exhibits. Get 'em on your calendar early and have some fun volunteering while helping educate the public!

Upcoming Intro to Vernal Ponds activities coming up

Richard Roth — Mon, 12 Mar 2018 21:30:00 GMT

We have Intro to Vernal Ponds shows coming up in April at the Perley School in Georgetown and the Tower School in Marblehead. No dates for those yet.

The real fun is about to begin...

Richard Roth — Thu, 01 Mar 2018 02:46:18 GMT

Be thinking about Nighttime Vernal Pond Field Trips.

Up close and personal at Gloucester's YMCA

Richard Roth — Thu, 22 Feb 2018 20:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday, February 20th we gave a "Snakes of New England and the World" presentation for kids at the YMCA in Gloucester. It's always fun to share our snakes at our local YMCA. Thanks to our Volunteers Colleen Anderson, Ann Byers, Kayla Saltonstall, Marisa Neves and Rick. Thanks go to Mike Springer for the article and photos in Thursday's Gloucester Daily Times.

We had some fun at Brooksby Village

Richard Roth — Wed, 21 Feb 2018 23:30:00 GMT

On Friday, February 16th we presented "Intro to Vernal Ponds" at Brooksby Village in Peabody for about 35 people. The activity included our DVD, live critters and our new power point. Nice crowd, nice show. Thanks to our Volunteers Colleen Anderson, Ann Byers and Rick.

Fantastic Essex County Ecology Center/Toad Hall Bookstore Grant Gift

Richard Roth — Sat, 03 Feb 2018 02:29:04 GMT

We had a very thoughtful Grant from Essex County Ecology Center/Toad Hall Bookstore. Included was a super kind letter from the President, Robert Buchsbaum, and the Board of Directors and we have quoted the body below. We want to thank them and acknowledge the exemplary work their organization has done over the years to support conservation and the CAVPT.

"Please accept this grant ... from the Essex County Ecology Center. As you know, Toad Hall Bookstore, the funding arm of ECEC, had to close this past fall after 45 successful years in Rockport. On the positive side, we were left with some remaining funds. The Board of Directors thought it entirely appropriate that some of our remaining proceeds be granted to the Cape Ann Vernal Pool Team in support of your environmental education and conservation initiatives. Our founder, Buck Robinson, and the rest of the board were always proud of the support we were able to provide to CAVPT and to see the fruits of your labors in your wonderful video."

Wow!

What a fantastic Annual Appeal response from Our Team!

Richard Roth — Fri, 26 Jan 2018 02:53:37 GMT

Thanks again for supporting us during our Annual Appeal... keeping our doors open and funding our Wildlife Center. You're the greatest!

New England Herpetological Society Expo

Richard Roth — Thu, 09 Nov 2017 01:30:22 GMT

Nice time at the New England Herpetological Society on Sunday. We were there all day with a native Massachusetts snake display. Thousands came in the door and we were able to engage an awful lot of them. Thanks to Keith Bertone and Gabe Montague.

Wicked Scary...

Richard Roth — Wed, 01 Nov 2017 14:09:36 GMT

Nice time at the Wicked Scary Pumpkin Carving Session last week. Good crowd: Colleen Anderson, Anna DiPerna, Jessica Kagle, Sarah Holmes, Julia, Karen and Ron Camille, Karen, Brian and Littleton Rick Roth, Dez Whitney, Nick Albina, Deb Gray and Bandit the Honduran milk snake.

Check out the cool pumpkins under activities, special events!

Gloucester Harvest Music Festival

Richard Roth — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 03:12:24 GMT

Saturday, we were at the Gloucester Harvest Music Festival. They assembled a great lineup of musicians. We were there all day with a Snakes of New England and the World exhibit. Thanks to so many volunteers that helped throughout the day.

Drone in action over Vernal Ponds

Richard Roth — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 03:11:14 GMT

And on Sunday, Nick Taormina, Adam Boronsky and I checked out some vernal ponds in Gloucester and Essex for additional info for certification. Adam flew his drone over the pools and took some birds-eye view photos. One cool, fun tool to help us protect wetlands.

Mill Pond Wildlife Relocation

Richard Roth — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 03:10:10 GMT

Its been another wild week. More action at the Mill Pond in Rockport. Set and baited 11 turtle traps on Wednesday morning. Thursday morning we had classes from Rockport HS and Essex Tech. Found three more turtles and more eels and elvers. I lost count of the fish that students got in the seine nets. Friday we had students from Rockport HS, Essex Tech and Glen Urquhart School. Only one more turtle. Students got hundreds more fish in the seine nets. Urquhart students were quick to learn the fishnet dredging technique for retrieving goocum from the bottom of the pond. They were able to sift through it to find dragonfly larvae, elver, freshwater clams and snails.

So... lots of animals got moved out of harm's way and moved to the Loop Pond.

Gloucester Harvest Music Festival

Victoria Rolf — Tue, 19 Sep 2017 03:04:11 GMT

Maritime Heritage Day

Richard Roth — Mon, 04 Sep 2017 22:30:00 GMT

Saturday, all-day Snake Exhibit for Maritime Heritage Day at Maritime Gloucester. Thanks again to our volunteers Marisa Neves, Ann Byers, Marion Healey, Dylan Piscitella, Jason Healey, Kayla Saltonstall, Victoria Rolf, Anna DiPerna, Keith Bertone, and Rick.

Really a fabulous job by our courageous vernal pond team members. Setup and breakdown went like clockwork at all three events this weekend. Great job of getting all our visitors up close and personal with our snakes. I really can't say enough about all the people who came together and made these events a great success.

Gloucester Block Party

Richard Roth — Sun, 03 Sep 2017 21:00:00 GMT

Friday night we were there for the Gloucester Block Party Snake Exhibit under the lights. Thanks to volunteers... Marisa Neves, Enza Cucitrone, Kathryn Heinze, Nathan and Laura Mahoney, Marion Healey, Genevieve Healey, Jason Healey, Colleen Anderson, Wilhelmina Rolf Thaemert, Victoria Rolf, Christian Kishida, Steve McCrory, Jon and Diane Bevins, and Rick. Scads of people at our tent. Thanks to Don and Susan at Toodeloos Toy Store.

Cape Ann Farmer's Market

Richard Roth — Sun, 03 Sep 2017 18:00:00 GMT

Okay... that was a wild three days. Nice Snake Exhibit at the Cape Ann Farmer's Market on Thursday. Thanks to all of our volunteers including Marion Healey, Genevieve Healey, Kayla Saltonstall, Anne Rosenfeld, Colleen Anderson, Ann Byers, Wilhelmina Rolf Thaemert, Victoria Rolf, and Rick. And the cool Kid's Activity with Tracy and Cathy from Art Haven - painting wooden snakes. Check out the page from our website under Activities, Activity Photographs.

Gloucester Sidewalk Bazaar... WOW!

Victoria Rolf — Thu, 10 Aug 2017 17:30:00 GMT

Wow, that was really something... at the Gloucester Sidewalk Bazaar. Thanks to our multitude of volunteers that were so generous with their time - there are so many people who helped out.

I saw a lot of coaching and educating amidst a few thousand people that came by our exhibit over those two days. We had a really great display and we even had a visit from a prominent politician - photo with Rick.

Check out our activity photographs Sidewalk Bazaar for some great highlights from this event, all the volunteers, and the photie.

Sawyer Free Library 'Build A Better World' Program

Richard Roth — Mon, 24 Jul 2017 02:31:01 GMT

We had a really fun snake show at the Sawyer Free Children's Library yesterday. Full house, lots of enthusiasm. Thanks to our volunteers: Colleen Anderson, Keith Bertone, Steve McCrory, Ann Byers, Mason and Karen Camille, and Victoria Rolf. Thanks to Christy Rosso for putting out all the snake books, getting us a huge crowd and her lovely introduction.

Thanks also to the person who left two reptile books on the windshield of White lightning.

Summer Fun Day Camp

Richard Roth — Fri, 21 Jul 2017 00:50:27 GMT

Nice show at Summer Fun Day Camp at Rockport Elemntary School this morning. Lots of kids. Snakes were well behaved. Fun time. Thanks to our volunteers: Colleen Anderson, Frew, Michael, Brigid and Zack.

Carpet python homeless

Richard Roth — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 03:01:05 GMT

Sunday afternoon I got a call from Melanie at the Sea Urchin store in Gloucester. There was a snake behind the building. Someone told her it was a rattlesnake. She emailed me a photo. Carpet python from Australia. Evidently somebody's pet got loose. Snake was gone by the time I got there. Melanie called again on Monday. Snake was back. Colleen and I went over and got it. Anybody need a carpet python?

Maxine's surgery update

Richard Roth — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 03:00:30 GMT

Sunday morning I took Maxine, our boa constrictor and a real fan favorite, to the New England Wildlife Center in South Weymouth. Most of a tumor was surgically removed from her back by Dr. Greg Mertz and his very capable staff. We'll go back next Sunday for a followup. She's hanging out on her climbing branch right now and seems to be recovering nicely.

Gloucester Block Party... and WOW!

Richard Roth — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 02:59:37 GMT

Saturday night we were at the Glosta Block Pahty on Main Street with a native snake display and a bunch of other snakes for people to get up close and personal with. We were mobbed. Thanks to our volunteers: Diane, Kate and Jon Bevins, Steve McCrory, Colleen Anderson, Wilhelmina Rolf Thaemert and Victoria Rolf, Cora Hawks and Marisa Neves. And thanks to Don and Susan Boyé at Toodeloos Toy Store.

Unitarian Universalist Society Animal Awareness

Richard Roth — Tue, 18 Jul 2017 02:58:23 GMT

Saturday morning we were at the UU Church in Rockport for their Summerfaire with a bunch of vernal pond critters: frogs, salamanders, turtles and snakes. Nice time. Thanks to our volunteers: Keith Bertone, Ann Byers, Cora Hawks, Victoria Rolf and Colleen Anderson.

Halibut Point State Park

Richard Roth — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 03:41:17 GMT

Sunday morning we had a snake show at Halibut Point State Park. Once again, the weather was ideal. Nice crowd too. Thanks to Keith, Colleen and Janice Fullman. And thanks to John Ratti from the Department of Conservation and Recreation for a nice introduction and help during the show.

Harold Parker State Forest

Richard Roth — Mon, 26 Jun 2017 03:39:16 GMT

Saturday evening we had a nice snake show at Harold Parker State Forest. Beautiful weather, great crowd. Thanks to our volunteers: Keith B., Colleen Anderson and our friends from the New England Herpetological Society and CAVPT snake show veterans Dawn McCall and Mike Labbe. And thanks to Alex Lawson from the park.

RiverFest at Great Meadows Sudbury

Richard Roth — Tue, 20 Jun 2017 15:00:00 GMT

And... we had a great snake show on Saturday at the Great Meadows National Wildlife Sanctuary in Sudbury MA for RiverFest. Just after arriving at the sanctuary, I noticed these two sketchy looking characters hanging around by the park entrance. Turns out it was Norman Williams and Gerry Swislow with whom I graduated from Rich Central High School in Olympia Fields Illinois in 1970. What a surprise. So... we made them help out with the show along with Adam Boronsky and Colleen Anderson. Great crowd. Fun time.

Strawberry Festival Fun

Richard Roth — Wed, 14 Jun 2017 02:33:39 GMT

We had a nice time at the Strawberry Festival on Saturday at Mile Marker One. Great weather, great crowd. We had one cool live animal display: tadpoles, frogs, turtles, salamanders and snakes. Thanks to our volunteers: Becca and Ian Toltz, Keith Bertone, Colleen Anderson, Kate and Diane Bevins, Steve McCrory, Marisa Neves, Anna DiPerna, Victoria Rolf and Wilhemina Rolf Thaemert.

Audubon Nature Festival

Richard Roth — Tue, 06 Jun 2017 02:40:00 GMT

Yesterday I was at the Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary with a bunch of our native snakes for the Audubon Nature Festival. I was helping out one of my favorite nature educators Richard Wolniewicz. Huge crowd. We were busy all day.

Yard Sale Recap!

Richard Roth — Tue, 30 May 2017 01:52:29 GMT

We had a great Yard Sale on Saturday. The weather was perfect. We were set up earlier than ever. Breakdown happened faster than ever. We brought in over $1400.00, which is the second most ever.

I wish I could thank everyone by name, but its really not possible with all the Vernal Pond Team members, the Kestrels and everyone who donated items or volunteered some time before, during and after the sale. All I can say is Thank You to everyone for a great fundraising event.

Crane Estate

Richard Roth — Thu, 25 May 2017 15:00:00 GMT

Nice show at the Crane Estate on Sunday. Snakes of New England and the World. Perfect weather, great crowd. Thanks to Dorothy Antczak, Keith Bertone, Colleen Anderson and Steve McCrory.

Mass State House hearing on Bill 490 yesterday

Richard Roth — Thu, 04 May 2017 02:33:23 GMT

We had a nice time at the Mass State House yesterday. 48 people, mostly from the New England Herpetological Society, were there to oppose Senate Bill 490 which, if passed, would basically shut down our live animal educational presentations. The bill was not very well thought out or very well written. They lumped animal educators in with people who promote dog fighting. Several of us testified against. At the end of the day, I think I could safely say "That bill isn't going anywhere."

Lots of People Checking Out Our Clean Energy Fair Display

Richard Roth — Tue, 02 May 2017 01:24:59 GMT

We had a nice vernal pond/native snake display at the Clean Energy and Sustainability Fair at O'Maley School on Saturday. Lots of people checking out our exhibit. Thanks to volunteers Viki Rolf, Ann Byers, Colleen Anderson, Keith Bertone, Diane, Jon and Kate Bevins.

Gloucester Pride Stride Vernal Pond Display at Stagefort Park Sunday

Richard Roth — Mon, 01 May 2017 21:00:00 GMT

On Sunday we had a vernal pond display at the Gloucester Pride Stride. Thanks to Colleen Anderson, Keith Bertone, Becca Toltz and Chad Interante, and those who Walked the Walk!

Earth Fest at Lynn Woods on Saturday

Richard Roth — Tue, 25 Apr 2017 18:00:00 GMT

We had a cool snake show at Earth Fest at Lynn Woods on Saturday. Thanks to Keith, Judy, Dave and Colleen. And Ranger Dan and all who did such a great job cleaning the woods.

Lynn wetlands field work

Richard Roth — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 23:00:00 GMT

We've been some busy buccaroos. Last Sunday Keith Bertone and I went to Lynn MA to look at some wetlands with a group who is trying to save as much woods as possible there. Did the field work for one pool.

Glen Urquhart School Snakes Presentation

Richard Roth — Fri, 21 Apr 2017 20:30:00 GMT

On Thursday we did a snake show for about 70 kids at Glen Urquhart School in Beverly Farms. Thanks to Viki, Verdun, Wilhelmina, Christine and Mark.

Seekonk Public Library Snakes Presentation on Tuesday

Richard Roth — Thu, 20 Apr 2017 21:00:00 GMT

On Tuesday Viki Rolf and I did Snakes of New England and the World for a full house (80) at the Seekonk Public Library. Charlie and Theresa from Seekonk helped out with the show.

Field trip to Ravenswood Park last night was really Great!

Richard Roth — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 15:34:31 GMT

We had a great field trip last night to Ravenswood Park. A few spotted sals seen migrating - even though it wasn't raining the ground was still wet from the afternoon rain. Lots of peepers calling and breeding, good wood frog chorus. Lots of congressing sals in the pool. Spermatophores and eggs. Fairy shrimp, caddisfly larva, red-backed salamander and a predaceous diving beetle. What else do you need really?

Still need volunteers for next week's snake shows.

I'm expecting some good action at the pools tonight, so there will be a field trip. Meet at Walgreen's at 9 pm.

Essex County Greenbelt Field Trip

Richard Roth — Mon, 10 Apr 2017 17:00:00 GMT

Great weather for an afternoon field trip yesterday. Good group of people. Spotted sal and wood frog eggs, fairy shrimp. Glad to do a field trip for Essex County Greenbelt, a truly fabulous organization. Thanks to Andrew Mahoney for inviting us and Mary Williamson for help at the field trip. And thanks to CAVPT volunteers Cindy Dunn, Sandy Barry and Keith Bertone.

Field trip tonight April 5th and tomorrow night April 6th too

Richard Roth — Wed, 05 Apr 2017 17:16:31 GMT

There will be a field trip tonight. Might not see any migration, but there should be some action in the pools. Meet at Walgreen's parking lot on Main Street in Gloucester at 9 pm. Check the field trip guidelines on the website.

Then, on Thursday April 6, the weather should warm up and get wet. I think it will be a good night for migration. Same deal: meet at Walgreen's at 9 pm.

See you out there, Rick

Field trip last night

Richard Roth — Wed, 05 Apr 2017 17:15:35 GMT

We had a nice little field trip last night to two pools in Ravenswood Park. Nice drizzle to keep everything wet. A few degrees on the cool side. But we did see two spring peepers hopping to the pool. Several spotted salamanders making the migration. Saw one wood frog in the pool and heard a few others quacking. 50 or so spotties in the pool and 50 million fairy shrimp.

First Vernal Pond Field Trip tonight!

Richard Roth — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 22:28:06 GMT

Now... the weather forecast for tonight is good chance of rain and 42 degrees during peak field trip time. That's a couple degrees on the cool side for a huge migration. But, you never really know what the amphibians are going to do. So... I am going out tonight to see what's happening. Might be some good action, so join me if you can. Meet at Walgreen's parking lot on Main Street in Gloucester at 8:30pm, look for White Lightning, my van. Check out the field trip guidelines on our website.

Nice Introduction to Vernal Ponds at Gloucester High today

Richard Roth — Tue, 04 Apr 2017 22:26:56 GMT

We had a nice Introduction to Vernal Ponds this morning for some of the science students at Gloucester High School. Video and turtle, frogs, snakes, salamanders, fairy shrimp and caddis fly larva.

Scoping out ponds coming soon

Richard Roth — Mon, 23 Jan 2017 04:05:36 GMT

With all this rain I'm thinking about pond surveys. CAVPT recently bought some really cool rechargeable flashlights that'll blind you - for the field trips. Looking forward to spring and getting out in the woods.

We had a great time at Gloucester High School

Richard Roth — Thu, 15 Dec 2016 03:40:46 GMT

We had a great time at Gloucester High School last Friday presenting Snakes of New England and the World. 200 or so students, three presentations. Great job by our fabulous volunteers: GHS students Marion Healey, Lila Hawks, Marisa Neves and Kate Bevins, who got out of some of their classes so they could participate. And Becca Toltz, Nichole Stafford and Colleen Anderson.

Manchester Memorial School for the Department of Parks and Rec

Richard Roth — Sat, 26 Nov 2016 23:00:00 GMT

We had a nice Snakes of New England and the World presentation on Wednesday, at the Manchester Memorial School for the Department of Parks and Recreation. Thanks to our volunteers: Wendy Antrim, Becca Toltz, Nichole Stafford, Viki and Wilhelmina Rolf Thaemert, Karen and Marisa Neves and Colleen Anderson.

Cape Ann Trail Stewards Transit to Trails Launch Event

Richard Roth — Mon, 17 Oct 2016 22:00:00 GMT

Last Friday we had a nice native critter exhibit for the Cape Ann Trail Stewards Transit to Trails Launch Event, at the Seine Field in East Gloucester. Beautiful day, nice crowd. Thanks to Keith Bertone, Ted Tarr and Colleen Anderson.

Thanks to all who braved the weather at Dogtown Days

Richard Roth — Sat, 08 Oct 2016 19:00:00 GMT

We had a nice exhibit at Dogtown Days last weekend. Cool event. The weather was a little soggy and raw, but there were lots of people there to admire our Dogtown native reptiles and amphibians. Thanks to Becca Toltz, Keith Bertone, Colleen Anderson, Marisa Neves and Dave and Benjamin McKinnon.

NEHS Mass Reptile Expo Native Mass Snake Display

Richard Roth — Tue, 27 Sep 2016 21:00:00 GMT

So... last Sunday CAVPT had a nice native Massachusetts snake diplay at the New England Herpetological Society's Mass Reptile Expo in Randolph. Lots of people were interested in our snakes. Keith Bertone and I did that one. We are both members of both organizations.

Maritime Gloucester and Ludwik who misbehaved!

Richard Roth — Tue, 06 Sep 2016 21:30:00 GMT

We had a great time on Saturday at Maritime Gloucester. Our snakes were a big hit and we were pretty much mobbed all day. Thanks to our courageous volunteers: Kate, Diane and Jon Bevins, Nick Taormina, Marisa Neves, Colleen Anderson, Marion Healey, Keith Bertone, Wendy Antrim and Abby Cook. Snakes were relatively well-behaved except for Ludwik who pooped in Marisa's shoe. Snakes today.

Mobbed at Gloucester Block Party

Richard Roth — Sat, 20 Aug 2016 19:00:00 GMT

We had a great time at the Gloucester Block Party last Saturday. Us and our snakes were mobbed the whole time. Thanks to our fabulous volunteers: Wendy Antrim, Colleen Anderson, Becca Toltz, Marisa Neves, Ted Tarr and Marion Healey (who showed up as a very convincing Harley Quinn, which was quite popular with our younger visitors.