We ENCOURAGE all readers to do their own homework and not use these articles as their SOLE SOURCE of Education. Knowledge is Power and Power is Knowledge. Many Media Companies only give you: conflict, controversy, blood and half-truths. It is up to you to find the whole story and not just what you read.
February 2012 - Texas Snake Man gets bit while performing a safety lecture/show/demonstration. http://www.nbcdfw.com/news/weird/Texas-Snake-Man-Bitten-By-Rattlesnake-140818923.html
January 2012 - WAKE UP REPTILE LOVERS! They're at it again and we need you all to take a moment and visit this link so you can help educate our politicians and everyone around you. I've been doing this for over 20 years and would like to continue to be able to educate young minds using pythons. http://united-states-association-of-reptile-keepers.rallycongress.com/5799/no-on-fws-python-rule-bad-american-small-business-families-alread/
December 2011 - Snake Education With A Twist, Inc. has a FACEBOOK Page now. Like us! http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Snake-Education-With-A-Twist-Inc/121513411268096?bookmark_t=page
November 2011 - After a month of discussion we have decided to keep our current website look/format and also add a ".org" link as well.
September 2011 - Our website will be going through some changes in the next month or two and will soon showcase a whole new look. We appreciate your continued support. Also, make sure to check out our many videos on Youtube.com http://www.youtube.com/user/ToddRowley?ob=0&feature=results_main
March 2010 - a great deal of news has taken place throughout Florida and several other states in the past year regarding the Burmese Python and other reptiles of concern that have and will effect Reptile Keepers. I will soon be updating all this information on this site. Remember please do not believe everything you read but use that information then do your own homework.
July 16, 2009 - THE HUNT IS ON! Florida has allowed 20 licensed and trained reptile person's to capture and kill Burmese Pythons. Each of them are allowed 5 helpers. We in the reptile community applaud these steps but make sure you are legal to own them and stay safe in these efforts to eliminate these intruders.
July 15, 2009 - earlier today is was "reported" that a man in Jacksonville, Florida was bitten by a pigmy rattle snake in the garden section of a Wal-Mart store. That area of the store was closed down until a thorough search was done. The man bitten is recovering in a local area hospital and all indications is that venom was injected. http://www.news4jax.com/news/20059152/detail.html?taf=jax
July 13, 2009 - For those that are not sure of what is going on in Florida with Senator Bill Nelson (S373) and Hon. Kendrick Meeks (HR 2811). These two politicians are using the recent media coverage of snakes to fuel their proposed bills into law (S373 & HR2811). The reptile world, as a whole, is not apposed to the banning of Burmese pythons in Florida (heck we have plenty already in the wild) nor a legal, organized hunt of these Burmese pythons with trained professionals in the Florida Everglades. However, we are apposed to the current way the proposed bills are written which state "pythons" instead of the specific Burmese Python. The reptile world wishes to also ask that not only that section of the bills be changed but also to indicate the continue "interstate transport and trade of captive bred Burmese Pythons already in the Country to continue". The ban of "pythons" all together in this Country would have a huge impact on the economy in Florida and other States that currently have well established businesses that bred and sell these reptiles and generate millions into the local economy. Do not blame an entire Reptile Organization/ Group for the careless, irresponsible pet-owners of a few. We encouarge these politicians to sit down with the reptile groups and really talk with them to fully understand the total impact this current written proposed bill would cause. Do not make this a WITCH HUNT! For more information go to www.usark.org
July 2, 2009 - On July 1, 2009 in Oxford (Sumter County) Florida - a 2 year old girl was killed by a pet albino Burmese python owned by the mother's live-in boyfriend. The snake apparently got out during the night (this was the 2nd time it got out of it's cage in the last 48 hours) and went into the little girls rooms and constricted and killed the child by suffocation. The python also apparently bit the child several times. The boy friend woke that morning noticed the snake was missing and went into the little girls room where he found the snake on the child. He stabbed the snake several times and called 911. The snake was found in the child's room hours later after they removed the child from the room. The snake was still alive and taken to a veterinarian for treatment. NOTE- the owner of this 8ft. Burmese Python was not licensed to have this snake. The cage did not meet requirements of such a snake. The tragedy is that a child died. And in Florida this may be the first case ever of a non-venomous snake killing a person. The local news has tried to spin this into a Witch Hunt once again and this only adds fuel to Sen. Bill Nelson's plan to submit a bill (law) that would ban these snakes from Florida - Ban import of them, due to the pythons loose in the Everglades.
This Tragedy is about a Irresponsible Pet Owner-Irresponsible Owner!. If the owner of the snake was permitted and properly licensed then it would have been less of chance the snake would have gotten out since FFWC actually come to your home to INSPECT the actual location of the snake cage(s) and exactly where in the home it will be placed. Let's again remember this was an irresponsible owner. This could have very well been a gun, dog, car or you name it. Our prayers go out to the family of the child and their circle of friends.
June 20, 2009 - the F.I.R.E. Reptile Expo held normally at Orange County Convention Center in July has been cancelled this year - 2009.
April 2009 - HR669 VICTORY is ours Reptile Keepers!! The incredible response from you all have shown out law makers that these "organizations" that try to bully their ideas through will not be tolerated. This victory means they (PETA & AHS) have to go back ot the drawing board and start all over. The battle is won for now but be true, stand tall and make sure you maintain your legal and moral responsibilities to your pets. Doing so will only make it harder for such organizations to portray us as "animal cruelty thugs". Also a quote from USARK news:
"Take heart in the fact that the Reptile Nation stopped HR669 in it's tracks!!" We also need to thank Congressman Henry Brown, SC for helping us to focus our fight on the Subcommittee as opposed to the full House of Representatives. He is the one who instructed us to write real letters to be truly effective. He said emails are fine if that is all you can manage, but they can be filtered and deleted. There is no denying the weight of thousands of paper letters from American citizens. The Reptile Nation was responsible for 49,229 letters delivered to the Subcommittee in less than two weeks. Congressman Brown's staff made sure they all got in the door. 38,000 of those letters will be entered into the permanent record. Thank you my friends!
For more information on this and other reptile news visit www.usark.org or www.cfhs.org
April 2009 - HR669 - write to your States Congressman, flood their mailboxes and e-mails letting them know to STOP HR669 from becoming law in your State. The State of CT lost that battle. For much more information on this and more Reptile News go to: www.usark.org or www.cfhs.org
April 2009 - EVERYONE that cares about their reptiles and the legal right to own such wonderful creatures. ... Two large organizations (PETA & AHS) are trying to push a bill/law HR669 through to become law. If this happens you'll lose the right, has a responsible owner, to own many types of animals. Watch for it and learn and do what you can to stop it. I call this a Witch Hunt. For more information go to the news section of www.usark.org
February 2009 - Many things are happening in the Reptile World here in Florida and around the South Eastern USA. I'll be updating you all soon on what is going on and links to this information for you to read up on and how you may wish to get your voice heard.
February 2009 - Remember when the weather gets cold or to the frost/freeze temperatures in areas that normally do not get it. Those reptiles and other critters will seek out warmer locations to stay. .. Your Home, Your Car, Your Garage and other locations. So, play it safe and look before you put your hands anywhere.
November 2008 - This past weekend we had our 1st Ever
Reunion Camping Trip.
A Trip that was years
July 17, 2008: A lady doing laundry got a huge
surprise when she found a large snake in the washer in her Maine, farmhouse
on Wednesday July 16th.
http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080717/ap_on_fe_st/odd_snake_washing_machine
Thursday July 10, 2008: A 3 year old child was bit by a pigmy rattle snake on Wednesday July 9 while walking around her campsite. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/volusia/orl-bk-pygmy-rattlesnake-bite-071008,0,5653484.story
Tuesday June 24, 2008: We here at the Central Florida Herpetological Society and many in Central Florida would like to send our prayers and well wishes to the family of Edward "Ed" James Swain. Ed, passed away this past Sunday to an on going battle with cancer. Ed spent many years educating others on the wonders of reptiles. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/community/news/winterpark/orl-bizdead2508jun25,0,2222810.story
Thursday May 29, 2008: The East Orlando Sun Newspaper and reporter, Megan Shannon did a wonderful article on our business. Thank you Megan. http://www.eosun.com/article-445-walk-on-the-wild-side.html
April 30, 2008: A man (Jack) in Bushnell, Fl. was bitten by an Indian Cobra early this morning and airlifted to ORMC after calling 911 himself. Venom-One in Miami-Dade County had anti venom flown in for treatment. For more information on this click here: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/state/orl-cobra0108may01,0,7834542.story Currently they are indicating the owner of the snake was licensed for such venomous reptile.
March 17, 2008: Well it's been over a month since Deltona, Florida tried to make legal issue and change laws that allow venomous snake owners to keep venomous snakes. It seems the ordeal is over and Deltona backed down and was told, they can't change the laws...better yet, over ride what FWCC has set in place. Now, they are going after breed restrictions on pit bull dogs. Wow, all those people that were ignorant and agreed in banning the venomous snakes now have to deal with their dogs! Also not that Orlando Slantinel never did write any article after the President of the Central Florida Herpetological wrote them and gave them correct information. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/community/news/deltona/orl-vsnakes0608mar06,0,5090246.story
February 18, 2007: The results are in for the man in Deltona who has venomous snakes. It seems the County Commissioners will back out from seeking legal action against him since he has his VRL Permit granted by the FFWC. http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/News/Local/newWEST01021808.htm & http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/volusia/orl-bk-snakes021808,0,3303414.story
February 17, 2008: Looks like the Orlando "Slantinel" Sentinel continues their one sided support of articles from last week. They posted a letter from a reader supporting and responding to last weeks article but I have not seen any article, letter or comments regarding all the e-mails/letters/calls they got from licensed snake/exotic keepers. I also noticed they still have the article that allows anyone to see the licensed venomous keepers in Central Florida. mapping of VRL's: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/community/news/deltona/orl-map-snakes,0,4421257.htmlstory Viewpoint Article: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/community/news/deland/orl-vvlett17_108feb17,0,6245683.story
February 14, 2008: Happy Valentines Day everyone. I just wanted to update you on the Orlando Sentinel's article's. Not only did they mislead their readers they went on to post the addresses of ALL Venomous Keepers in Central Florida (Feb. 9th). Sure, it may be public knowledge but I believe they did this to fuel their article and now could be facing legal action because some of the venomous keepers are lawyers, law enforcement officers and other person's who's information is considered "sealed" and Private in the Sunshine State Laws of Florida if they are a Government Employee or other agencies. Way to go Orlando Slantinel. I know they have been receiving phone calls, e-mails and letters. They knowing allowed an article of theirs to be published without considering all sides and lead the readers to believe one side. Let's post all the editors of the Orlando Sentinel on a billboard for all to see so when someone disagrees with them they can go directly to their home and speak to them. Shame on You Orlando Slantinel!
February 8, 2008: Orlando Sentinel is taking up where the Deland Paper left off about considering even stricter laws on venomous and exotic snakes that just took place January 1, 2008 of this year. They have a quote from a local Commissioner and some other person's of interest. I only ask that anyone they get to speak about this that is not a licensed reptile holder should be careful. Do your homework before you open your mouth. I hope our County and City Officials will read up on all things, do their homework and don't just go with the Witch Hunt that is now taking place. These new laws do effect me and my business and anything they do will continue to effect me, my business and many others out there. Plenty of comments from all walks of life. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/orange/orl-snakes0908feb09,0,2251395.story
January 13, 2008: Well, it was October when we reached 100,000 on Youtube and now we are at just over 150,000 views. Thanks everyone. www.youtube.com
January 1, 2008: This year begins the new laws in Florida on select reptiles with permitting, micro-chips and more. http://myfwc.com/permits/index.html direct link: http://askit.myfwc.com/cgi-bin/myfwc.cfg/php/enduser/popup_adp.php?p_faqid=2529&p_created=1199400504
December 2007: From all of us (Collin, Erik, William, Ely, Chris L., Chris V., Ryan, Zeshan, Zenas, Dalton and Phil) to all of you. Thank you for a great year and I look forward to 2008 full of new and returning campers.
November 20, 2007: Just to let you all know that 2 new videos have been added to our videos. They can be seen on www.yahoo.com and www.youtube.com videos as well.
October 25, 2007: A man was bite by a pigmy rattle snake in East Orlando today and taken to ORMC. The man reports he was cutting a field when he came upon the snake which bit him on his left index finger. He said he knew enough to get the snake and bring it with him to the hospital. The man is currently in school to become a herpetologist himself. The bite does not look too serious and the man was in fair condition when I met with him.
October 20, 2007: The monthly CFHS meeting to take place on Tues. November 6th has been moved to Saturday November 17, 2007 @ 4:00pm for a BBQ at George Van Horn’s “Reptile World Sepentarium” 5705 East Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway (also known as 192), St Cloud . Everyone is invited, members, non-members, interested people, and bring all your friends that have some interest in the outdoors. Bring a covered dish if you wish. Plan on attending? Then contact Shawn to RSVP at 321-452-1798.
October 11, 2007: IT HAPPENED! We've Done It! As of today, the videos on www.youtube.com have been viewed over 100,000+ times. The videos were put up last December and man to people have things to say. Many comments are negative since they think I was making fun of Steve Irwin but they soon realize I wasn't or they actually read the description of the video. I have plenty of nice comments and comments that asked reptile questions. Thank you everyone and this does not include the views on myspace or www.yahoo.com videos either. http://www.youtube.com/user/ToddRowley?ob=0&feature=results_main
October 5, 2007: Well it seems the Orlando Sentinel finally corrected the mistake but I know it was only after they received e-mails, letters or calls informing them. Sure it took 2 weeks and I could go off on that but I am just happy that a large News Paper Company decided to right a wrong. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/orl-corrections,0,501484.htmlstory
September 21, 2007: The the person or person's that broke into my home. Next time you kick in the snake room door, trash my home and steal from me I'll have a very large and dangerous rattle snake waiting for you. May God or someone else have mercy on your soul because at this point in time, I do not!
September 19, 2007: This article printed by the Orlando Sentinel was published but the information was gotten from another newspaper in South Florida (St. Petersburg Times by Craig Pittman). The Big Problem is that the information is WRONG! Permitting License wildlife Class 1 vs. III. Bonds and insurance as well. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/state/orl-exotic19sep19,0,3291958.story
September 11, 2007: Anyone missing a 5ft. boa constrictor? A large 5 ft. boa was seen by a lady slithering up under her car so she called it in. Luckily the police didn't shoot the snake but instead captured the snake. http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/volusia/orl-snake1107sep11,0,5963974.story
June 24, 2006: Our very own local Herping Man - George Vanhorne made the local paper, Orlando Sentinel for "This week spotlight". http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/osceola/orl-spotlight2407jun24,0,3603661.storyJune 17, 2007: It's Father's Day to Happy Father's Day to all those "Father's" and "Dad's" out there. Also, we have recently returned from our 2nd longest ACF trip ever, 7 days and 7 nights to the mountains of the Cherokee's and more. Check out our new pics on this website and at least 6 new videos on www.youtube.com as well. Just type in Chief Rowley and enjoy.
May 19, 2007: Young boy who watched Steve Erwin all the time helped save his own life when bitten an Adder (venomous snake). Way to go Steve! http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/news/tm_headline=crikey--i-ve-just-adder-snake-bite&method=full&objectid=19130690&siteid=66633-name_page.html
May 10, 2007: Boy bite by copperhead in North Fl.... this is a simple reminder to watch where you play but the only part I had trouble with is that copperheads do not have eggs. They have live birth. I e-mailed the writer of that story and shared that information. http://www.wjhg.com/news/headlines/7539457.html
May 9, 2007: A child up North bitten by a venomous snake in MS. The problem with this story is the writer referred to the snake as "poisonous" which we know there is no such thing, they are venomous. I know it's a small part but it makes a difference to educate others. http://www.wlbt.com/Global/story.asp?S=6495128&nav=2CSf
May 5, 2007: Attention All Boy Scouts & Girl Scouts... On Sunday July 15th at the Orange County Convention Center off International Drive in Orlando, Florida you will be able to get in FREE on the 2007 F.I.R.E. (Florida International Reptile Expo) as long as you have your scouting uniform on. Check out Orlando's Largest Reptile Expo, over 1000 snakes/reptiles to see and even buy. Also, Sunday July 15th stick around and earn your Reptile/Amphibian merit badge during a FREE class. The F.I.R.E. will be offered Saturday July 14th & Sunday July 15th, 2007 at the Orange County Convention Center. For more information go to www.worldherpexpo.com
May 5, 2007 May and June are the Alligator Mating months and with the low rain falls the gators will be on the move even more. Many reptiles and other animals will be moving around looking for ponds, lakes and any area there is water. Be careful, be safe and be smart when outdoors.
April 30, 2007 I have signed up as a myspace user and now taken the next step into YouTube.com with some of the videos on this website and some that have not been put on this website. Enjoy them all. Go to www.youtube.com then type in Chief Rowley in the search bar and have fun. or click this :http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Chief+Rowley&search=Search or you may also find some of the videos at Yahoo videos.
January 22, 2007 If you live in Central Florida and would like to get more involved in the "herping" world then consider joining the Central Florida Herpetological Society, largest in the South East United States. This organization is for all ages, young and old alike. A Great Family adventure to learn together, to "herp" together, to grow together. Meet others that share your interests too. To learn more click here.
December 31, 2006 Young female snake handler was attacked by a large python snake while putting on a show. http://www.cfnews13.com/News/Local/2006/12/31/python_attack.html http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20061231/ap_on_fe_st/snake_handler_attack http://www.cnn.com/2006/US/12/31/snake.attack.ap/index.html
December 26, 2006 Florida Law Makers are wanting to change the way current owners of Large Exotic Snakes (Boas, Burmese, Anaconda) keep them here in Florida. They are proposing permits for select large snakes and micro-chipping any over 2ft. long. I will let you read for yourself but let me say this, "I don't think they have thought these through fully. The logistics of what they are wanting to do will do more harm then good in the short run..." http://www.sptimes.com/2006/12/26/State/A_Florida_crackdown_t.shtml http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/state/sfl-creptiles22dec22,0,833842.story?track=rss http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/state/orl-snakes2306dec23,0,7528737.story?track=rss
December 19, 2006 News on biologist tracking large pythons and other large snakes in the Florida Everglades. http://www.cnn.com/2006/TECH/science/12/18/python.detectives.ap/index.html
December 16, 2006 An Ohio man was killed by his pet 14 foot Burmese Python Snake. Those that know me know I have several snakes over 9ft. long (Abby, Albinee, Tiny, Lucky). http://www.upi.com/NewsTrack/view.php?StoryID=20061216-114358-4495r
November 14, 2006 Researches in South Florida using pythons with transmitters to locate other large exotics and have them removed. Keep in mind this is what our law makers are thinking of doing to anyone having exotics or venomous. I'll keep my mouth shut until they actually think it will work then I'll speak up. http://www.usatoday.com/tech/science/2006-11-14-pythons-radio_x.htm?csp=34
November 10, 2006 Texas "Snake-Man" breaks his own record by having 10 rattle snakes in his mouth for 12.5 seconds. Do I need to even reply to this one? http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/061110/photos_us_rank_afp/777cca630b5a84c15509d30440e48552
November 7, 2006 A woman in Kentucky was bit by a snake during a Church service where snake handling is practiced. The woman dies! http://www.fox6.com/news/national/story.aspx?content_id=21935004-8EBD-45C8-91E5-A3E91004E62F&rss=national
November 6, 2006 Our local area Theme Park, Gator Land on FIRE! http://www.wftv.com/news/10249356/detail.html?rss=orlc&psp=news
November 2, 2006 Okay everyone I have heard about it so much I have decided to give it a try. Yep, I have a myspace now and it's only been 48 hours and I am already ready to get rid of it. I don't have the patience to figure out all the do's and don'ts. That is why I am not into video games I don't get all the buttons nor can I remember it all. So, see what you think www.myspace.com/chiefrowley I hope this is the right way to set up the link.... I think. Also, the "friends" list profile is NOT a reflection of myself or this company. Again, I am doing a trial basis to see how this goes. I am truly amazed at what people are willing to put on a PUBLIC access website.... go figure.
November 1, 2006 Florida Residents may get the opportunity to deal with alligators that come onto their property. Currently, only licensed trappers are allowed to handle and/or remove alligators. FFWC are considering lowering the level of protection with the Florida Gator which would allow home owners to deal directly with the gators. My concern if this new law passes that residents that know nothing about alligators will then find themselves on the biting end of the situation. Just like in snake, most people get bit when trying to catch or kill the reptile. Those are my thoughts and I am out of here! Chief http://myfwc.com/whatsnew/06/statewide/gator-clarif.html
October 27, 2006
Teen is hero in true story of snakes, danger.... By BETH N. GRAY
http://www.sptimes.com/2006/10/27/Hernando/Teen_is_hero_in_true_.shtml
WEEKI WACHEE - Hernando County, Florida.
October 25, 2006: Attention All Boy Scouts & Girl Scouts... On Sunday November 5th at the Orange County Convention Center off International Drive in Orlando, Florida you will be able to get in FREE on the 2006 F.I.R.E. (Florida International Reptile Expo) as long as you have your scouting uniform on. Check out over 1000 snakes/reptiles to see and even buy. Also, Sunday Nov. 5th stick around and earn your Reptile/Amphibian merit badge during a FREE class. The F.I.R.E. will be offered Saturday November 4th & Sunday November 5th, 2006 at the Orange County Convention Center. For more information go to www.worldherpexpo.com
September 10, 2006: Tomorrow marks the 5th anniversary of the Attack on America. All this week I have received e-mails about 911 and the television and radios have been talking about it non-stop. I am one of those that believe we should never forget what happened but at the same time continue to live life to the fullest and treat each day as if it were your last. Remember to show the love to those you love, show the friendship and support to those around you. Patriotic Americans is not publicly strong as it was days and months after 911 and we should continue to be very pride of where we live. It may not be all that we want in many ways, but when you look at the over all big-picture in the world of today, it's the best there is. You may agree or disagree with our elected officials but be happy that YOU CAN do just that. May God Bless You and Keep You throughout your life and come into the hearts and souls of those you meet along your journey. Chief Rowley
September 4, 2006: The "Croc Hunter", Steve Irwin Dead at 44 years old. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/14663786/ Steve Irwin will be missed by millions of people that have grown up watching him. Many of my videos are based off his Character Style. Steve, may the good Lord keep you close and watch over your loved ones that remain here with us. Your style of education will be used by many for years to come... Chief Rowley
Some comments from our readers regarding the sudden death of Steve Irwin (Sept. 4th, 2006): Have a comment send it to us."So sad. What a weird way to die."
"I agree. My daughter, Karen phoned & told us this morning & when I talked to her at lunch she was so depressed she wasn't sure if she would be able to finish out her day @ work. My granddaughter, Autumn, was really upset because her lifelong dream had been to go to Australia & meet Steve in person. She even wants to be some kind of animal or marine biologist so she could go to Australia to work. We will miss the man, he was a great entertainer & taught so much about animals. He was something like you. You teach so much about snakes that once someone talks to you they aren't so wild about hurting them. Every time I tell somebody about the snakes in our creek & they go yuk I think they should talk to you. You are definitely an inspiration to people. "
"I can't believe it Chief. I guess you will have to take his place, ...."
"I know I am so sad about that I loved him and his wife and kids that is so sad."
"I can't believe it either. He has done so much and he had much more to do before his time. I still think it is a bad dream...."
"The world has lost a wonderful man that both entertained and educated millions of people. I feel for his family that he leaves behind but hopefully the huge amounts of support from around the world will some how give peace of mind to his wife and children...."
"It is a sad story, unbelievable the way that it happen and even more so to the fact that it must have been his time. Honestly, what are the chances that a Sting-Ray could hit that spot? I would really like to see the statistical data on that, if there even is any. I feel so sorry for his wife and their child, I know it must be very hard on her." JR 9/5/06
'This is so terribly sad. Dalton and I are broken hearted about it. We pray for they're family."
August 28, 2006: Snakes On A Plane (movie): What can I say about this movie other then it's a combination of: slap-stick, adult humor, drama and down right stupidity. I personally saw the movie just to say I did and I hope if you watch the movie you remember just that, it's a MOVIE and much if not 90% of the movie is incorrect/false. Samuel L. Jackson was right when he had the name of the movie changed. "Snakes on a plane" will get a crowd and it has done fairly well in theatres so far but it's all about entertainment not Education.
June 27, 2006: A newly discovered snake that can change color?: article no longer available
June 27, 2006: Considered one of the Largest Snakes Alive. article no longer available
June 1, 2006: Woman gets bit by snake while in a WalMart garden center. http://www.wftv.com/news/9305190/detail.html?taf=orlc
March 31, 2006: Man crashes his car after a snake bites him. article no longer available
March 8, 2006: The Butler Garter Snake threatened by a new hospital acute care planned for construction. http://www.jsonline.com/story/index.aspx?id=406926
March 9, 2006: Australian Snakes' Venom Could Provide The Next Generation Of Human Therapeutic Drugs. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=39033
February 1, 2006: Man Bitten By Deadly Snake In Florida Everglades":http://www.local6.com/news/6650180/detail.html?taf=orl
December 22, 2005 Hollywood man bitten by snake, possibly a cobraA 43-year-old Hollywood man is at Memorial Regional Hospital being treated for a possible poisonous snake bite. The anti-venom unit is still looking for the brown snake and has not yet confirmed the type of snake. Miami-Dade's anti-venom unit responds to all snake bites in South Florida. Miami Herald: article no longer available. Another link to the same story: http://www.nbc6.net/news/5616512/detail.html
December 6, 2005 Wildlife officials urge people that snakes are out and to stay clear of them. http://narooma.yourguide.com.au/detail.asp?story_id=444033&class=News%2D+Local
Spring 2005 Information on research at University of Central Florida on the venomous Golden Lance Viper. http://www.cas.ucf.edu/news/Quest2005_8.php
October18,2005 CNN Daily News Clips :Backyard Battle With Python
http://us.video.aol.com/video.index.adp?mode=2&pmmsid=1417443
October 10, 2005
Loose python devours 18-pound Siamese cat
near Miami-Dade home
--------------------
By Alva James-Johnson
Staff Writer
It had only been two days since Elidia Rodriguez had seen her Siamese cat,
Francis. So when a Burmese python showed up Sunday in a wooded area behind her
house in northwest Miami-Dade, the 66-year-old woman thought nothing of it. That
was until her son, Andres, noticed a peculiar bulge in the python's belly.
"I'm sure there's a cat in there," he said later. It's the latest python
incident in South Florida, where exotic snakes are proliferating and swallowing
pets and other creatures whole. A 13-foot python recently gulped down a 6-foot
alligator until its stomach ruptured, alarming public officials and citizens.
And for residents like Rodriguez, Sunday's incident heightened concern.
On Sunday morning, Rodriguez was walking her dogs when she encountered the
snake, which was 10 to 12 feet long, her son said. He said his mother called him
to the scene because he had caught snakes on the property before. He said he was
trying to capture it when he
noticed the bulge. That's when he decided to call 911. The Miami-Dade Fire
Rescue anti-venom unit arrived and bagged the python about 11 a.m. "It was a
pretty good size animal, and it wasn't friendly, either," said Capt. Al Cruz. He
said when he tried to grab the python, it tried several times to bite him. He
said the snake had several rows of about 100 teeth and could have inflicted a
significant wound.
"I figured it hasn't been a pet snake for some time now, especially with the
temperament that it had," he said Cruz said the bulge in the python's stomach
was about 15 to 16 inches, and he suspected it was the 18-pound cat. "It was a
full-size pet," he said. "I even felt the legs in the stomach."
He said the python was taken to A.D. Barnes Park in Miami, where it is on
exhibit. Andres Rodriguez said the cat was about a year old, and his mother had
received it from a friend. When he told her that he thought the python had eaten
her pet, he said, her eyes welled with tears. He was still trying to decide how
to break the news to his 6-year-old daughter, Nicole, who lives in Tampa. He
said she had become close to the animal, and would be heartbroken. Cruz said the
anti-venom unit sees about three to four pythons a year roaming the streets of
Miami-Dade County. He said they could be found from Miami Beach to Cutler Ridge.
"They are pets that people have that get away, or people release them," he said.
He said a reptile 10 to 12 feet long can kill an adult or
child through strangulation, but most won't unless they're confronted.
"The big problem is probably with small pets," he said. Rodriguez said he caught
a python behind the house five years ago and
kept it in a cage, but it eventually died. He said the family has other pets,
and he fears a python could strike again. "These things, I think, should be
completely outlawed," he said.
Staff Writer Jeremy Milarsky and news partner WTVJ-Ch. 6 contributed to
this report.
Putnam County fire marshal dies of rattlesnake bite
- 2005
The Associated Press
PALATKA -- A Putnam County fire marshal has died
after being bitten by a diamondback rattlesnake he shot in a neighbor's yard.
Joe Guidry, 54, shot the five-foot snake multiple times on Oct. 1 and thought it
was close to death. He reached out to grab the snake, and
that's when officials say he was bitten on his right hand.
Putnam County Sheriff Dean Kelly says Guidry told him in intensive care that he
felt the snake's poison tingling in his lips as soon as he
stood up after the bite. Guidry's condition worsened despite receiving 18 vials
of antivenin, and he died Friday, Kelly said.
"He died helping someone else. I think his mission in life was to make people
remember him and well, mission accomplished," Kelly said.
Kelly will be giving a eulogy at Guidry's funeral Tuesday in Palatka. Guidry had
also worked as a firefighter in Clay and Collier counties
and an emergency medical technician in St. Johns County.
Copyright (c) 2005, Orlando Sentinel
Visit OrlandoSentinel.co
October 5, 2005: This news hit all over the East Coast and throughout Florida. What people don't know is that it happens more often than not. Large pythons have taken up residence in South Florida along with a small family of COBRA's. Yep, you heard me right. When such powerful creatures take up home in South Florida with other Native creatures things are bound to happen. http://www.local6.com/news/5060013/detail.html#
September 17, 2005: a mid 20 year old man was bit (tagged) by a Hagen Tree Viper that he was keeping at home. The young man is in the hospital under medical observation and treatment and currently in stable condition. The snake was removed from his home since he was not permitted. Fines are pending for the young man. The snake is being housed with a licensed venomous keeper at this time while the young man decides whether to continue to pursue his 1000 hrs. and permitting for VRL or turn the snake over to the keeper. No further information at this time.Middle School student bit on shoe: http://www.nbc4.com/news/4984869/detail.html
News about a Professional Snake Handler who got bit ("tagged") by a Western Diamondback Rattle Snake in Homestead, Fl. while putting on a show. http://www.local6.com/news/4981330/detail.html .... here is the news article I told you about
Public safety officials are warning Southern Arizonans to be
wary of snakes, after a German tourist died from a bite earlier
in the week. Marcus Wolf, 35, was bitten Sunday in the Willcox
area and drove himself to Northern Cochise Community Hospital in
Willcox, officials said Friday. He ...
http://www.azstarnet.com/dailystar/dailystar/93741.php
Cooler days are hot time for rattlesnake bites in Arizona
March 2005: Man survives bite from one of the world's deadliest snakes on his head. http://www.wftv.com/news/4321691/detail.html?taf=orlc
March 28, 2005 Black Mamba Snake Bites Central Fla. Man" :http://www.local6.com/news/4321742/detail.html?taf=orl
December 2004: 53 poisonous snakes removed from mans home. http://www.local6.com/news/3973084/detail.html?taf=orlpn
Katrina:
Our hearts and prayers go out to the Gulf Coast region that felt the destructive power of Hurricane Katrina. This is something that none of us have ever experienced in our lifetime. May God look down on us, lift us and guide us to rebuild our faith, compassion and our core soul. May there be light at the end of this long, long road ahead. May we all find a new sparkle of light in our souls that bring us closer together to love, support, listen, comfort in fellowship with family and new found friends. Chief Rowley August 2005
911:
This Sunday marks the 4 year since the attack on the United States of America. During this time of need and despair let us not forget that day on a sunny afternoon when our lives changed forever. We continued, we carried on, we rebuilt, we re-opened and we came out of the rubble. On that day we were all the SAME COLOR. We saw everyone emerge from the rubble in an ashy grey and they worked there way out of the cities and towns. Let us not forget what we learned on that day and how we felt. Channel your anger into constructive behaviors like: Respecting one another, Embrace your friends and neighbors and treat others as you yourself want to be treated. The human spirit is stronger than anyone really realizes so let it show and let it shine. We ask God to give knowledge to those who wish others harm for: religious belief, color of skin, location on earth, state of mind and their choices in life. May these people find peace in their own life and soul so that they may return it to their neighbors. Chief Rowley
Increase in Snake Bites
With all this destruction around and the waves kicking up in the waters do not be surprised to find all types of animals looking for higher ground. As the waters returns to it's oceans be VERY CAREFUL. It is at this time we will see an increase in snake bites and other wild animal bites. Don't use your hands when flipping over that piece of wood, roof, tin or what ever, use a hook or broom handle. Be prepared for those startled reptiles and animals looking to hide, run and attack out of fear. Tap on the object you are about to flip or move with the broom handle before touching it. You may save yourself from a possible bite or attack. Tap it and prepare to move out of the way. Chief Rowley
June 18,2003: News - Pet Snake Puts Owner In Hospital" the link: http://www.local6.com/news/2279298/detail.html?taf=orl
August 6, 2002: This show was 10 years in the making. Doing a Snake Show with my older brother who originally got me into the snake business. : A link to to the show in Huntington, IN : http://www.huntington.edu/news/0203/Rowleysnakes.htm
PO BOX 618618, Orlando, Florida 32861-8618 (407)-445-1812
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October 10, 2005, 10:57 AM EDT
(This story supports what I have been
telling people for years, Dead Snakes Can Bite!)
