hmf Dig #1 May 12, 2003 Sir Fances Drake button How did Queen Elizabeth 1 honor Sir Fraqnces Drake?
Bill Fox: . . . . Mon, May 12, 9:22AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Hi, I'm Bill Fox I am currently located at Blackwater Community School in Coolidge, Arizona. I teach 4th grade and coordinate the science fair with all of our other fine teachers. I am looking forward to using some of the interesting study areas to enhance science, math and language development within my classroom. I want my students to be interactive with the computer and our enviroment at school and that is why we are going to begin our Camp Internet studies with the Global Gardening project.
Jami Mendoza: . . . . Mon, May 12, 9:22AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Hi! My name is Jami Mendoza and I teach in LaPlant, South Dakota at Tiospaye Topa School. I am currently teaching the 1st grade, but will be including the K-8 grades in Camp Internet. Our school is on the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation and has approximently 250 students in our K-12 school.
Jean Smith: . . . . Mon, May 12, 9:22AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Hi! My name is Jean Smith. I teach computer classes for grades 7-12 and am the technology coordinator at Tiospaye Topa School in LaPlant, SD. Tiospaye Topa is a K-12 BIA school, which serves approximately 250 students from the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe.
rhull: . . . . Mon, May 12, 9:24AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Hello, my name is Richard Hull. I am the Curriculum Coordinator at Blackwater Community School. BWCS is located on the Gila River Indian Community. GRIC boarders the Phoenix metro area in central Arizona. BWCS serves preschool through fourth grades. We also have a family literacy model, the FACE program. Our tribal name of our charter school is Akimel O'Otham Pee Posh. We are a BIA grant school.
MR. E!: . . . . Mon, May 12, 9:25AM PST (-0800 GMT)
My school's name is Casa Blanca Community School. We are located on the Gila River Indian Reservation about 30 miles southeast of Phoenix, Arizona. The community that we are located in is Bapchule, Arizona..............
I am the Computer Lab instructor for our school which, is K-4, with approximately 350 students..............
My name is Mr. E!
Tim Loge: . . . . Mon, May 12, 10:24AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Hello!I teach 7th and 8th grade at Havasupai elementary, a BIA K-8 school. We live in the heart of the Grand Canyon. We have about 88 students.
kfogle: . . . . Mon, May 12, 10:24AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Hi!! I teach 1st grade at Baca Community School in Prewitt, New Mexico. Prewitt is located right off of I40 about 80 miles west of Albuquerque. Baca is a BIA school on the Navajo Indian Reservation. We are getting a new school!!! It will be ready for this comming school year....... We are all very excited about it
smontano: . . . . Mon, May 12, 10:28AM PST (-0800 GMT)
Hi! I,m Shannon, I teach on the Navajo Indian Reservation in
New Mexico 50 miles east of Gallup. A new school is being built at our current site and will bring our sister BIA school from Thoreau, NM to join us in August.
: . . . . Mon, May 12, 2:32PM PST (-0800 GMT)
My name is Alice and I teach gifted and talented students k-6.
: . . . . Mon, May 12, 2:58PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Hello, I am Holly a Hupa California Indian teach at the Salt River Elementary School
: . . . . Mon, May 12, 3:36PM PST (-0800 GMT)
hmf Dig #1 May 12, 2003
Sir Fances Drake button
How did Queen Elizabeth 1 honor Sir Fraqnces Drake?
: . . . . Mon, May 12, 3:42PM PST (-0800 GMT)
hmf Dig #1 May 12, 2003 Sir Fances Drake button How did Queen Elizabeth 1 honor Sir Fraqnces Drake?
Bill Fox, Blackwater Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:27PM PST (-0800 GMT)
William Fox
Wednesday, May 14, 2003
Field Report
Entry 1. 8:00 am. After an evening of tossing and turning in my bed on the boat ride we arrived at the pier to Santa Rosa Island. We were given an introduction in how to use our GPS navigational instruments and we set off to explore. The Latitude and Longitude for this location was noted at N 34.00865 and W 120.04898. We disembarked by ladder and set off up the bird poop covered pier to the trailhead.
rhull: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:28PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Richard Hull - Blackwater Community School
The team of teachers and naturalist from the National Park Service www.nps.gov boarded the boat Truth www.truthaquatics.com at 8:00 pm on the 12th of May. This was a new experience for most of us to be spending the night in a bunk on a ship. The boat debarked for the island at 4:00 am. The trip took around three hours. The park guide invited the team to breakfast and a view of the island at approximately 7:00 am. After a briefing about the island’s regulations, the Truth moved next to the dock. Getting off the boat reminded me of how the immigrants must have felt landing at Ellis Island. You had to climb a ladder to reach the top of the pier. After more briefings we began our adventure on the island.
Bill Fox, Blackwater Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:28PM PST (-0800 GMT)
William Fox
Wednesday, May 14, 2003
Field Report
Entry 2. We began walking up the trail and the Field Guides told us how this was one of the windiest places in North America. They provided evidence of this by pointing out the eucalyptus trees that lined the road. They were all growing sideways because of the wind. The field guides also pointed out how come the Island was so windy and why the pier was located on this side. It was because the waves hit the other side of the Island and prevented boats from unloading on the pier. The pier was built to off load cattle and supplies for the families that lived there and the ranch hands that worked the cattle. This side of the island was windy but the waves were not present because they are blocked by the position of the island and the mountains on the island. Lat N 34.00749 Lon W120.04898
Bill Fox, Blackwater Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:28PM PST (-0800 GMT)
William Fox
Wednesday, May 14, 2003
Field Report
Entry 3. After we began our walk down the trail we noticed numerous indeginesous flowers, weeds and plants that the guide said were returning to the island in abundance because of their preservation work and also because the cattle no longer grazed on the island. They also pointed out imported plants such as a salt shrub that produced salt crystals that would fall off and percolate into the nearby soil preventing other plants from growing near this plant. This was a type of survival instinct built within the genetic structure of this plant. We continued on down the trail were I located some fresh Elk tracks near the stream. We discovered that these Elk were placed here by the owners for trophy hunts that now supported the family’s income. They also placed deer from the Kaibab area of Arizona here as well for hunting. I was told that a trophy hunt could cost a hunter as much as 13,000 dollars to do. The latitude for this location was N 33.99314 and W 120.04090.
Bill Fox, Blackwater Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:29PM PST (-0800 GMT)
William Fox
Wednesday, May 14, 2003
Field Report
Entry 4. We continued up the trail towards where the Torre Pines were located and turned towards the beach. Here we encountered a Chumash village cleaning area were the Chumash Indians cleaned their abalone shells and discarded them in large piles along the coastline. At this location I moved dangerously close to the cliff edge for a better look below and spotted a sea lion basking in the sun. I proceeded to take a few pictures of this peaceful animal in his natural environment. The island has many sea lions, seals and otters visiting it daily year round. The location of this spot was N 33.98793 and W 120.02660
rhull: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:29PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Richard Hull - Blackwater Community School, Santa Rosa Island is the ancestral home of the Chumash Indians. They can trace their presence on the island dating back more than 10,000 years. It is not clear when the last Chumash left their island home for the mainland. The island has been used as a private ranching operation until most recently when it was purchased by the National Park Service.
Mr. Loge, Havasupai Elementary: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:29PM PST (-0800 GMT)
My first impressions of arriving at Santa Rosa Island’s pier were many. In order to grasp a hold of the pier’s ladder we had to step on the ship’s railing first. Our ship was named Truth, and the channel’s waves forced the ship to bob and sway away from the ladder. So first thing, there was a bit of excitement, and a bit of courage was required to climb from the boat to the top of the pier. Next, once we were on top of the pier the first mate asked us our name. It had to be checked off his list. This was done so that the captain knew exactly who had left the ship. The first mate promised to pick us back up, if we returned to the pier at the scheduled time of 1:30 pm. If not, he knew exactly who was left on the island. With that, I had made a mental note to always be the aware of our time. Lastly, I was very intrigued with where I was standing: the pier appeared to be whitewashed, but upon closer inspection it was covered in thick seagull defecations; the wind was insisting to blow me off the other side of the pier; the smell of seaweed was overwhelming. To get off the pier it look to be a hike; it was a long pier! The island itself stretched majestically out before was. It had a nice, long beach and high cliffs behind it. The island was green but not tree filled. The GPS on the pier was N 34.00854 & W 120.04703, and with that reading we were ready to begin our adventure. 
Bill Fox, Blackwater Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:29PM PST (-0800 GMT)
William Fox
Wednesday, May 14, 2003
Field Report
Entry 5. At this time I left the others and proceeded on my own up to the pines for a closer look. These pine only grow in two areas in the entire world. One being this island and the other a small area of San Diego. This particular version is smaller than those in San Diego because of the wind that blows so strong here. It was evident that the deer use these trees for hiding in and sitting under. I found numerous droppings in this area. The longitude was N3.98638 and Latitude W 120.04090
Mr. Loge, Havasupai Elementary: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:29PM PST (-0800 GMT)
An island maybe a paradise, but there is still a danger or two to look out for. Here are a few warnings that we were told to heed: stay out of Clap Spring’s water because it is still recovering from fecal choliform (defecation) from the cattle that once roamed the island-do not drink or even touch the water; stay on trails avoid cow trails which are narrow, uneven and unstable and dangerous; stay away from cliff edges since they tend to be crumbly and unstable; stay away from rodent droppings because you can catch the hanta virus (like other places in the Southwest). 
Bill Fox, Blackwater Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:29PM PST (-0800 GMT)
William Fox
Wednesday, May 14, 2003
Field Report
Entry 6. I moved off from here back up the road to were the trail headed out to the beach. I walked up the beach for approximately .5 miles and noticed the fascinating cliffs and rock formations. I moved back up on the trail and headed back to the pier. I arrived at the pier and took a small rubber skip back to the boat because the boat wasn’t able to dock this time because it was low tide.
Bill Fox, Blackwater Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:30PM PST (-0800 GMT)
William Fox
Wednesday, May 14, 2003
Field Report
Entry 7. As we were heading back towards Santa Cruz Island we encountered a once in a lifetime sight. We found Humpback whales feeding in the shallow waters off Santa Cruz Island. It was magnificent seeing them blow water in the air and dive deep giving us a full show of their tails. These magnificent beasts were extremely large and didn’t even care that we were there.
Bill Fox, Blackwater Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:30PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Entry 8. We left the island and headed towards Santa Cruz Island to visit the one of the largest sea caves in the world. The captain pulled the boat right into the cave for us to see. There were sea lions and birds of many types inside the cave and large jellyfish in the water as well. It was a fantastic sight to see and the cave went in about a half mile we were told.
rhull: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:30PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Richard Hull Blackwater Community School,This remote island lays some 40 miles off the coast of Santa Barbara, California. The isolation contributes to its serenity. The group moved along the marked hiking trail with their guides for the first hour or so. At about the half way mark at the crossing of one of the islands only sources of drinkable water, I set off with a colleague to explore the pristine beach that lay below the trail.
Bill Fox, Blackwater Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:30PM PST (-0800 GMT)
William Fox
Wednesday, May 14, 2003
Field Report
Entry 9. On our cruise back we encountered one of the most incredible sights I have ever seen. We ran into a supper large pod of dolphins that came right over to our boat and moved along side us for about 10 minutes. There were literally hundreds of these beautiful mammals jumping, diving and playing beside us. I have never in my life seen such a sight even in my many years in the navy. You could reach right down over the side and touch them as they surfaced it was awesome. This was a great adventure and one I will never forget. I’m glad we had our digital cameras and a film crew to save the events for future reference.
rhull: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:30PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Richard Hull - Blackwater Community School,We followed the stream to where it entered the ocean. The beach was amazing! It was one the few times I have walked along a stretch of beach that my footprints were the first and only ones for that day. The morning tide had deposited many treasures to observe. Sand dollars, crab carcasses, shells of many colors, driftwood and seaweeds littered the sands. High cliffs of layered sentiments border this beach. There are few places to actually access the beach from above. It is easy to allow your imagination and inner thoughts to be released in this setting. I walked south along the beach to where a lava deposit blocks my path. Here the rocks were white with droppings from thousands of sea birds. The calming sounds of the ocean waves and the calls from sea gulls in the distance insisted that I rest and take in this private moment. As I turned to head back north the view was astounding. My footprints were easily retraceable. I could see the boat landing in the far distance.
dee: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:31PM PST (-0800 GMT)
My visit to the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History was surprisingly exciting. The Museum’s web site is: www.sbnature.org. My colleague and I were able to hear recordings of the Chumash language and songs. 
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:31PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Field Report on Santa Rosa Island Excursion
By Mr. E!
5/14/2003
rhull: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:31PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Richard Hull - Blackwater Community School,The journey back to the boat landing was slow as if my feet were protesting the return to reality. At one point, the cliff had given way and circumventing the debris required climbing about slick rocks, wet sand and dodging the incoming sea. At the pier there extends a ladder to the beach. We climbed up the ladder and waited for our group to return.
dee: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:31PM PST (-0800 GMT)
They use abalone to make necklaces and tools.
rhull: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:32PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Richard Hull - Blackwater Community School,We left Santa Rosa Island around 3:00 and headed over to Santa Cruz Island to get a view of Painted Cave. Along the way we were treated to a humpback whale sighting. What a day! And there was more to yet to come. The boat took us along the coast of Santa Cruz. Steep volcanic cliffs surround this island. There are many sea caves and formations to observe. The captain steered the boat into the entrance of Painted Cave. There was much excitement on the boat. Inside the cave were harbor seals lounging on the rocks, colorful jellyfish floating about, starfish clinging to the sides of the cave and rare birds nesting.
We turned and headed back for Santa Barbara. On the way dolphins that raced along side the boat surrounded us. Followed by seagulls looking for a handout. We arrived back at the landing around 6:00, exhausted from the outing but overwhelmed by the experience.
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:32PM PST (-0800 GMT)
5-12-Monday
5:00 P.M.
Our Camp Internet training at the California Computer Center has adjourned after being in class since 8:30 A.M.
dee: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:32PM PST (-0800 GMT)
I especially liked the Chumash sea going canoe that was displayed above out head. We were about to get close enough to see how it was make but it was protected from being climbed on. 
rhull: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:33PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Richard Hull - Blackwater Community School, Thank you Camp Internet and RAIN Network for giving us this rare opportunity. Especially from us desert dwellers.
dee: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:33PM PST (-0800 GMT)
I especially liked the Chumash sea going canoe that was displayed above out head. We were about to get close enough to see how it was make but it was protected from being climbed on.
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:33PM PST (-0800 GMT)
5:15 P.M.
Richard and Bill, my new-found friends from Blackwater Community School and I, board the Waterfront Electric Shuttle and are headed down to Stearn’s Wharf.
We are trying to find our boat, the “Truth Aquatics” but don’t really know where to look. We start heading west along the beach area to Harbor Landing, and got lucky!
We hop aboard and pick out our bunks (berths). We unload our backpacks. Now we need to find a place to eat. We walked about a ½ mile and found a Sea Food restaurant.. I ordered an Alaskan Halibut, which cost me $22.00. I think I could have been happy with a couple of tamales and a tortilla! It’s now 7:00 P.M. and we are “chowing” down.
dee: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:33PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Those little paleontologist in our schools would of loved the exhibit of the pygmy mammoth fossils. It is the most complete skeleton ever found .
dee: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:33PM PST (-0800 GMT)
The pictures of the cave paintings were beautiful.
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:34PM PST (-0800 GMT)
:00 P.M.
We’re back on the boat now, and I’m fixing my bunk. All we have are one blanket and a pillow. I go back up on the deck and wait for our movie to start. At this time we are supposed to be watching “The Island of the Blue Dolphins” but it isn’t starting on time.
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:36PM PST (-0800 GMT)
9:00 P.M.
The film started about fifteen minutes ago, and my fellow mates and I are watching this interesting T.V. film. The film has a connection to the Santa Rosa Island, which we will be visiting tomorrow.
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:37PM PST (-0800 GMT)
10:30 P.M.
The movie ended around 10:15 and I’m heading down to our bunk area to turn in. I’m wondering if I’m going to be able to go to sleep in this strange place! I drew my curtain and went to sleep without too much trouble. We are still docked at the harbor and will sleep on the boat. We will push off early tomorrow morning.
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:37PM PST (-0800 GMT)
5-13-Tuesday
4:00 A.M.
I wake up as the boat’s engines kick on. I crawl out of my bunk and go up on deck. I’m the only one awake and the sole human being on deck!
I’m looking out and seeing absolutely nothing. It is dark, cold, windy, foggy, and spooky!
Real men aren’t supposed to admit they’re scared, so I’ll only admit that I was concerned, bewildered, disoriented, dazed, and flummoxed! What is an innocent, pure, clean-living, Native American boy doing out here, somewhere – wherever we are!
All I could slightly see was out white-water wake trailing behind us. I’m hanging on tightly to a ladder because the boat was rocking, swaying, trying to stay afloat. The water was a little, bit rough at this early time of the morning. What was amazing was how dark it was out there! Wherever you looked, you couldn’t see a thing! I have to admit, what if …? Now I can empathize with the shipwrecked victims out on the dark, night-time disasters!
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:38PM PST (-0800 GMT)
4:45 A.M.
I’m now heading back to my bunk to see if I can “blow a few more Zzzzzzs.” We are supposed to reach Santa Rosa Island sometime around 7:00 A.M.
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:38PM PST (-0800 GMT)
7:00 A.M.
We’re awake and the Captain is making some kind of an announcement, which I can’t hear because of the engine noise.
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:39PM PST (-0800 GMT)
7:30 A.M.
For breakfast I’m “pigging out” on a Breakfast Burrito, which is actually not too bad.
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:39PM PST (-0800 GMT)
9:15 A.M.
We are docked right beside the pier. In order to leave out boat to go up on the pier, which as about 12 feet up, we have to climb up the pier ladder, as our boat is swaying. You grab the ladder to go up when the side of the boat sways up against it! Nice experience!
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:39PM PST (-0800 GMT)
9:50 A.M.
We have all successfully climbed up to the pier’s deck. We are now ready to begin our hike.
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:40PM PST (-0800 GMT)
10:00 A.M.
We are about 1 ½ miles into our hike. It’s now warmed up quite a bit. We are walking on a dirt road, with the coastline and ocean to our left, and the rolling hills to our left. There is a slight breeze behind us gently pushing us along. It’s getting too warm. Take your jacket off Mr. E!
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:40PM PST (-0800 GMT)
11:15 A.M.
We are at about the endpoint of our hike. We are now at the Black Rock, site of the Chumash era.
“Wima” is the name, the Chumash called their island, the Santa Rosa Island as we know it today.
Radio carbon dating indicates that humans have been using this island for nearly 13,000 years!
Archaeologists have determined that a femur bone found in 1959 in Arlington Canyon on the Santa Rosa Island belongs to the “Arlington Woman”, and is the oldest human skeleton found in North America, dating to the end of the last Ice Age, about 13,000 years ago!
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:41PM PST (-0800 GMT)
11:50 A.M.
When we arrived at the Black Rock, I said a small prayer. In my prayer, I thanked the ancient Chumash for allowing us to visit them on their precious island. I prayed for their well-being, and health, in their new after-life dimension. I am sure they are with my Hopi people, those who departed hundreds of years ago, as well.
I prayed because that’s how we Hopi people are – we are very respectful of others, and care about the wellness of everyone. We are at peace with our lands and our surroundings. The Chumash would also pray for us if they were on our land. They would also be respectful of our land, history, people, and culture.
I felt a connection because I feel all Native Americans are connected. In my solitude at Black Rock I was amazed at the vastness of the ocean. It stretched out endlessly and was unending. I felt at peace, happy, quizzical, healthy, refreshed – and my hair was very, very, messed up! The ocean breeze has been unkind to my “do!”
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:41PM PST (-0800 GMT)
1:17 P.M.
We have hiked back to the pier, and our boat, “The Truth” is arriving to pick us up. The boat can’t dock beside the pier this time so we will have to climb down the ladder into a rubber boat. I think this is called a skiff. It can take only five hikers at a time, and I board with the first five. I can’t ever remember climbing a ladder, since I did it the last time about 55 years ago, climbing down into a Kiva.
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:51PM PST (-0800 GMT)
1:15 P.M.
The Pier Dock is in sight! All the "Happy Hikers" will be boarding "The Truth" at 1:30 and returning to Santa Barbara for the night..........
Tonight we tired, happy, hikers will be sleeping in real beds! I think this "roughing it" can get old, real quick, for us "City Boys!"
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:54PM PST (-0800 GMT)
1:15 P.M. The Pier Dock is in sight! All the "Happy Hikers" will be boarding "The Truth" at 1:30 and returning to Santa Barbara for the night.......... Tonight we tired, happy, hikers will be sleeping in real beds! I think this "roughing it" can get old, real quick, for us "City Boys!"
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School:: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:56PM PST (-0800 GMT)
1:15 P.M. The Pier Dock is in sight! All the "Happy Hikers" will be boarding "The Truth" at 1:30 and returning to Santa Barbara for the night.......... Tonight we tired, happy, hikers will be sleeping in real beds! I think this "roughing it" can get old, real quick, for us "City Boys!"
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School:: . . . . Wed, May 14, 0:56PM PST (-0800 GMT)
1:15 P.M. The Pier Dock is in sight! All the "Happy Hikers" will be boarding "The Truth" at 1:30 and returning to Santa Barbara for the night.......... Tonight we tired, happy, hikers will be sleeping in real beds! I think this "roughing it" can get old, real quick, for us "City Boys!"
kfogle-baca: . . . . Wed, May 14, 1:24PM PST (-0800 GMT)
We were finally aboard the boat (Truth) button . I say the boat because this part of our adventure was causing some stress. Since I was little, I always got sick riding in a car. Then when I traveled on a plane and now I was going to be on a boat. I always heard being on a boat was the worst. I bought motion sickness bands for my wrists and took my Dramamine. Aboard the boat, I went down to select a place to sleep. The sleeping quarters were small and dark. I really couldn’t tell what I was getting into. I just put my stuff down and went upstairs to watch the movie, Island of the blue dolphins. I was falling asleep during the movie and thought I wouldn’t have trouble sleeping tonight.
kfogle-baca: . . . . Wed, May 14, 1:25PM PST (-0800 GMT)
The boat docked right on the pier at Santa Rosa Island button . Walking up to the pier we observed geologic stratification of rock. The park ranger suggested this stratification 
occurred many years ago when the island uplifted out of the ocean. The top of the island was formed from runoff of the island over time.
kfogle-baca: . . . . Wed, May 14, 1:26PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Walking off the pier and up on the island we observed rusty farm equipment and some abandoned buildings. There were several houses painted white with green trim. This is what is left of the Vail and Vickers Ranch 
button . For a long time the ranch was a working ranch that raised cattle and sheep. It was amazing that cattle and sheep were transported off the island on boats to be sent to market. Now the island is owned by the National Park Service button and leased back to the Vail and Vickers until the year 2011. The Vail and Vickers no longer raise cattle and sheep on the ranch but operate a very lucrative outfitting business. They bring hunters onto the island and charge up to $13,000 for this opportunity. The island has elk and deer on the land, which are not native to the island and are considered trophy animals. When the lease runs out in 2011 the animals will be removed from the island in an attempt by the National Park Service to reclaim the land.
kfogle-baca: . . . . Wed, May 14, 1:27PM PST (-0800 GMT)
The island was very windy. Santa Rosa Island is past the Point of Conception button so its atmospheric flow is separated from the coast and a large wind stress curl is prevalent. I observed Eucalyptus plants bent over towards the beach, which tells how hard the wind blows. Walking along the trail an exotic crystalline ice plant, native of Africa was pointed out. The plant takes salt out of the water. It felt prickly and is reddish in color. It reminded me of a flower from a wedding cake that had dried up. This particular flower puts out enough salt to kill other plants that try to grow around it. It has adapted to its environment so it can survive.
kfogle-baca: . . . . Wed, May 14, 1:31PM PST (-0800 GMT)
The next destination on the trail was Water Canyon. Along the trail I observed grasslands where the cattle would have grazed. I observed many different plants, however I observed a very beautiful poppy. It was sunshine yellow with an orange center. 
I was told it was the state flower of California. button The trail down was very steep. At the bottom of the canyon a small stream was running on it’s way to the ocean. I could hear the wind whipping through the canyon sounding like a car motor running in the distance.
Bill Fox, Blackwater Community School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 1:42PM PST (-0800 GMT)
William Fox
Wednesday, May 14, 2003
Field Report
Entry 2. We began walking up the trail and the Field Guides told us how this was one of the windiest places in North America. They provided evidence of this by pointing out the eucalyptus trees that lined the road. They were all growing sideways because of the wind. The field guides also pointed out how come the Island was so windy and why the pier was located on this side. It was because the waves hit the other side of the Island and prevented boats from unloading on the pier. The pier was built to off load cattle and supplies for the families that lived there and the ranch hands that worked the cattle. This side of the island was windy but the waves were not present because they are blocked by the position of the island and the mountains on the island. Lat N 34.00749 Lon W120.04898
R McCarty Havasupai Elementary: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:26PM PST (-0800 GMT)
May 12, 2003 I participated in the most awesome Internet Workshop of my entire life. We spent the night sleeping aboard The Faith and at 4:00A.M. The boat moved towards Santa Rosa Island which has been purchased by the Federal Government. When we arrived at the island we climbed up on the dock and saw the most amazing shoreline and wall of layered rock tipped sideways.
RMcCarty, Havasupai Elementary: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:31PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Our guide Dave talked about the fact that many of the plants and trees on the island were indigenous to the island, and some were brought by people. We learned that at one time the ocean waters were much lower so more of the land was exposed to the elements and the distance from the shoreline to the coast shore line was much shorter. 
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:31PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Camp Internet Field Report
Santa Rosa Island
May 13, 2003
Jean Smith
We departed to Santa Rosa Island from Santa Barbara, CA at 4:00 am on Tuesday, May 13, 2003, on the boat the Truth. button The passengers consisted of Camp Internet students, a few students from local schools, naturalists from the National Park Service, and crewmembers.
jmendoza at Tiospaye Topa School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:31PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Camp Internet Field Report
Santa Rosa Island
May 13, 2003
Jami Mendoza
The boat arrived on time to the Santa Rosa Island. As we stepped off of the boat onto the dock, I knew I was in for a real treat! I took a deep breath and took in the fresh crisp ocean air. The first amazing sight I saw was viewed right on the dock. This was a spectacular view of sedimentation. This sight is true evidence of geologic stratification or layering. 
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:32PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Stepping off the boat onto the pier at 8:00 am found us at Santa Rosa Island. It is one of the five national park islands in the Channel Islands. Upon setting foot on the island, our GPS reading found us at N34.00851o and W120.04704o, with an elevation of 19 feet.
jmendoza at Tiospaye Topa School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:32PM PST (-0800 GMT)
The next sight our guide showed us was the Vale and Vickers Ranch. This ranch has been on the Santa Rosa Island since the 1800’s. This sight used to be a huge cattle ranch. The cattle would be shipped 100 head at a time across the ocean to the ranch. Although there are no cattle on the ranch anymore, a few people still live in the houses to maintain upkeep of the ranch. button
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:32PM PST (-0800 GMT)
We began our five-hour island hike. Sheep grazed the island in the 1800’s and cattle were introduced in the 1900’s, and remained until about five years ago. We went past the Vail and Vickers Ranch, which has buildings that were built around 1870. button With the exception of a few electrical poles, the ranch remains nearly identical to the way it looked after the Civil War. This is one of the windiest spots past the Point of Conception. Eucalyptus trees were planted to help break the wind. These trees are short and bend slightly because of the wind, as compared to the tall straight trees found on the mainland. Lichens and moss grew freely on the fence between the ranch and the tree grove. 
jmendoza at Tiospaye Topa School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:33PM PST (-0800 GMT)
The various scents on the island are amazing. I was able to see several Eucalyptus trees by the dock and ranch. The trail guide tells us the reason why they are all bent in a strange shape is due to the wind in that particular area. It is quite amazing to see the shape the trees have taken on. Next, we came to a wooden fence with patches of lichen and moss. It actually looks like someone placed them in a perfect pattern along the fence.
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:33PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Santa Rosa Island has four native land mammals; spotted skunks, grey fox, blue-belly lizards and mice. Deer and elk were placed on the island for the purpose of wild game hunting by the Vail and Vickers and their clients. The herds each consist of about 500.
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:33PM PST (-0800 GMT)
As we continued hiking, we walked on a path that was surrounded by native wild grass. button The grassland reminded me of the native grass that grows freely in South Dakota. One of the first plants we saw was the crystalline ice plant, which was a reddish-coral color. It looked frosty with frozen drops of water running down the sides. 
Our guide encouraged some of us to taste the saltiness of the plant. Bunch grass grew abundantly among the wild grass.
jmendoza at Tiospaye Topa School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:33PM PST (-0800 GMT)
On our way along the trail, the tour guide points to a plant called a crystalline ice plant. This plant was used for salt. It is a very pretty reddish color and looks like it is covered with frost. I tasted the plant and was very surprised at how salty tasting the plant actually was. As we moved on down the path we came to a stream with a small waterfall. The water is very clear at present time, but was very polluted with cattle feces when the cattle were on the island. This is a peaceful sight and we all decided to take a short rest while the tour guide told us about the stream. The stream and waterfall have
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:33PM PST (-0800 GMT)
We walked past the airstrip, which is used primarily by planes transporting supplies. The planes have a short nose because they need to drop quickly and don’t require a long runway. A public year-round campground is to the right of the airstrip and to the left is a 2-mile beach called Water Canyon Beach.
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:34PM PST (-0800 GMT)
As we continued our trek, we went to the bottom of the canyon (N33.99295o, W120,04180o). button It was a beautiful sight, with a waterfall trickling into a narrow rocky stream. The stream always has water in it, even after a five-year drought. When cattle grazed on the island, the water was contaminated with feces, but it appears clear now. Plant growth on the cliffs is improving with the absence of the cattle. Lemonade flowers and morning glories were growing freely on the cliffs. Natural plants have little competition, as there are presently no browsing animals on the island. In order to provide restoration of native plants, seedlings are started on the mainland. This year alone, 14,000 plants will be grown and planted. It is hopeful that the average rainfall of 15-20 inches will occur this year.
jmendoza at Tiospaye Topa School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:34PM PST (-0800 GMT)
On our way along the trail, the tour guide points to a plant called a crystalline ice plant. This plant was used for salt. It is a very pretty reddish color and looks like it is covered with frost. I tasted the plant and was very surprised at how salty tasting the plant actually was. As we moved on down the path we came to a stream with a small waterfall. The water is very clear at present time, but was very polluted with cattle feces when the cattle were on the island. This is a peaceful sight and we all decided to take a short rest while the tour guide told us about the stream. The stream and waterfall have always had water in them, even after a five-year drought. 
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:34PM PST (-0800 GMT)
On our uphill trek from the canyon, I observed a beautiful dudleya plant. It was a pretty pink color and reminded me of the yucca plants that grow wild near the banks of the Missouri River in South Dakota, where I live. We also saw California poppies, which are bright yellow with orange centers. button
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:35PM PST (-0800 GMT)
We continued to the rocky cliff site where the Chumash Indians had a workstation (N33.98794o, W120.02657o). 
There were flat rocks and shells, where they apparently prepared foods. The Chumash originally inhabited the island. The oldest human remains in North America were found here, dating back 13,000 years ago. The Chumash relied on the sea for food and trade. They used shells to make beads and traded them with people from the mainland. They used a bead money system. The Chumash traveled by redwood plank canoes.
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:35PM PST (-0800 GMT)
From this point, we had a beautiful view of the ocean and the beach area. There were many sea birds perched on the huge black rocks. Our guide stated that there were 12-14 species of sea birds on the island. We also observed a sea lion. 
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:35PM PST (-0800 GMT)
The remainder of the hike found us heading back to the pier. We backtracked until we got to the bottom of the canyon. Here we saw a native yellow-belly lizard. Instead of continuing the way we came, we turned to the right and went to the beautiful beach area. button The tide was low and we were able to rest on the fine white sandy beach. We found a few seashells, and well as many beautiful rocks. After relaxing, we return to the canyon and continued our journey to the boat.
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:36PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Upon reaching the pier, we found our boat; the Truth anchored a ways from the pier. Due to the weather, we were unable to load at the pier. We climbed down a ladder and rode from the pier to the boat in a small dingy that held 6-8 people. After climbing back onto the boat, we were ready to head back to the mainland.
jmendoza at Tiospaye Topa School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:36PM PST (-0800 GMT)
As we walk along the island our tour guide tells us that there are only four native mammals on the Santa Rosa Island. The four mammals are the spotted skunk, grey fox, mice, and the blue-bellied lizard. We were able to see the blue-bellied lizard sunning himself on a rock by a Chumash Indian working station site. This station was so AWESOME! There were thousands of tiny shells and a huge flat rock. The tour guide tells us that this is believed to be where the Chumash Indians prepared food such as shellfish. 
They also ate pine nuts and acorns, but mostly lived off the sea. The Chumash Indians developed a bead money system where they would trade seashells to make as beads for trade. 
At this sight over the ledge looking out to the ocean, we were able to see a small sea lion sleeping on a rock.
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:36PM PST (-0800 GMT)
On our journey back, we felt fortunate to observe two hump-backed whales sounding several times (N34.06611o, W119.93151o). Even from a distance, their tail fins were huge. We then continued toward Santa Cruz Island, the largest of the island.
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:36PM PST (-0800 GMT)
The north side of Santa Cruz Island consists of volcanic rock with caves in the side. The most incredible sight at Santa Cruz was the Painted Cave (N34.06978o, W119.92746o). The Truth was able to drive into the cave, which goes in about a quarter of a mile. The walls were beautiful! They actually looked like they had been painted different colors. There were several sea birds in the cave. The most incredible sights were the medusa jellyfish in the water and a variety of colorful sea stars on the walls of the cave. We had a group picture taken of all the Camp Internet students in the cave. 
After exiting the cave, we were able to see Profile Point, which looked like the profile of a person on the side of the rock.
jmendoza at Tiospaye Topa School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:37PM PST (-0800 GMT)
As we made our way back to the boat dock, we walked along the sandy beach. We observed many seashells of different shapes and colors. After about a five-mile hike, we returned to the boat dock and prepared to board our boat. The boat was not able to come up to the dock due to the weather, so we had to first board a small dingy that would transfer us over to our boat. The small dingy could only hold 6-8 people, so we took turns going over to the larger boat. It was so exciting going down the ladder into the small dingy. After we were in the dingy, we were given a ride over to our larger boat called the TRUTH. button
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:37PM PST (-0800 GMT)
We were in awe of the trip so far, and didn’t anticipate any further excitement until we came upon a pod of dolphins (N34.07131o, S119.86027o). 
This was the most incredible sight on the trip! There were approximately 500 dolphins swimming and jumping in the distance. As we got closer, the dolphins seemed to surround the boat. They were jumping in a synchronized method everywhere. They also swam underwater next to the boat at approximately 10mph. We could hear a high-pitched squeal as they swam. It was especially fun to see them close-up. Their backs seemed to be covered with scrape marks. One of the guides told us that the teeth of other dolphins made these marks. The crew on the Truth was very patient and allowed us to observe the dolphins for a long time. As we continued back to the mainland, we enjoyed watching the dolphins until they were totally out of sight.
jsmith, Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:37PM PST (-0800 GMT)
We arrived at the Sea Landing in Santa Barbara around 6:00pm. The trip was incredible and entirely more than I had anticipated. I am anxious to take back the knowledge and experiences I gained on the trip to Santa Rosa Island. Jami Mendoza, Angel Lee and I are grateful for having been given such a great opportunity. 
jmendoza at Tiospaye Topa School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:37PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Once we were on the boat we all had a great lunch. We were told that we would be going to painted cave. The tour guide told us that it would take about an hour to reach the painted cave. On our way to painted cave, we were lucky enough to be able to see a few whales swimming near our boat area, what an incredible sight! After an hour of boating and chatting about the Santa Rosa Island, we reached the painted cave. I could not believe how fascinating this cave was. button As we were driving into the cave we were able to see two medusa jellyfish that were purple in color. We were also able to see several starfish in multiple colors. The cave was so unbelievable, what a sight! Our whole group of Camp Internet students had our picture taken on the boat while inside the cave. 
jmendoza at Tiospaye Topa School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:38PM PST (-0800 GMT)
After leaving the cave I was thinking to myself that this trip could not get any better, it was so unbelievably incredible! Once again the tour guide came over the intercom and told us that we were approaching a pod of dolphins. I could not believe my eyes! There were hundreds of dolphins that were literally swimming in front, and along both sides of our boat. The dolphins were of various shapes and sizes. Some of the baby dolphins were about the size of a football. The dolphins seemed to be “playing” alongside our boat. One of the tour guides told me that when the dolphins would turn to their side that the dolphins were looking up at us. I could also hear them talking to each other in a very high-pitched type screech.
jmendoza at Tiospaye Topa School: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:39PM PST (-0800 GMT)
We began the journey back to Santa Barbara. I was so excited by all the wonderful sightings. I could not wait to get back to our hotel, so I could phone home and tell my family all about the awesome sights that I was able to see. I cannot believe how lucky I was to have been able to see so many amazing sites! I am truly looking forward to going back to my school, and sharing this wonderful learning experience with my students.
smontano: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:39PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Santa Rosa Island encompasses approximately 84 square miles and is part of a chain known as the Channel Islands. 
button From my understanding, it is now owned by the park service and leased to the Vail & Vickers Ranch for the purpose of big game (elk & deer) trophy hunts. These animals have been imported to the island. In the most recent past the island had been a cattle ranch and before that a sheep ranch. It was a home to the Chumash Indian about 1,000 years ago and is rich in archeology. The oldest human skeleton, “Arlington Woman” now known from North America was excavated at this island. button
smontano: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:41PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Initial observations from the boat revealed nothing spectacular, however, once upon the island that becomes a different story. The beach sites are beautiful with backgrounds, which display diagonal sandstone rock stratifications of a light tan. However, much of the beach is made up of jagged lava drop offs. button A tremendous wind blows down the road to the pier as you travel up. Eucalyptus trees (not native) had been planted as windbreaks on the left hand side of the trail up to the ranch and distortion due to this great blowing was evident by their curved appearance.
smontano: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:42PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Above the trees, the ranch structures are visible. Numerous varieties of flora can be seen, especially the California state flower, a brilliant yellow poppy with an orange center, which I was told has acquired its own aspects of uniqueness since its introduction to the island. button
smontano: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:43PM PST (-0800 GMT)
I found the site of the main ranch house and its 30 foot tall
Cypress trees captivating and set and sketched it. The
house sits in a wind guarded spot where surrounding shrubbery and trees have flourished. 
button The park service guide
said few people have cared to live on the island due to its isolation. The only forms of transportation to and from the island are by boat or air. There is a small runway, but we were told that landing could be most difficult due to the high velocity of the winds.
smontano: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:45PM PST (-0800 GMT)
The terrain of the island generally consists of a series of rolling hills with canyons, which drop off, but not too steeply. Spring water ran gently down the one canyon which we walked through. It looked pristine and clear due to years of effort on the part of the park service. This site was called Water Canyon and flowed out onto Water Canyon Beach.
smontano: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:46PM PST (-0800 GMT)
The terrain of the island generally consists of a series of rolling hills with canyons, which drop off, but not too steeply. Spring water ran gently down the one canyon which we walked through. It looked pristine and clear due to years of effort on the part of the park service. This site was called Water Canyon and flowed out onto Water Canyon Beach.
R.Mc Carty, Havasupai Elementary: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:46PM PST (-0800 GMT)
At the beginning of our hike we learned about men first raising sheep on the land. There were no predators to attack the sheep. Later cattle were raised. The buildings and ranch house were built in the 1800’s. The ranch house has a couple of eucalyptus trees that the rancher’s wife brought with her. As we hiked we looked at fields and the hiked down into the canyon where cattle and sheep could not graze, and we saw the walls of the canyon filled with indigenous growth.
smontano: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:47PM PST (-0800 GMT)
At the tour point called “Black Rock” we came upon a Chumash midden site with an abundance of abalone shell
remnants. button Apparently the native people brought back the catch of the day and broke the abalone open upon a weathered lava rock. This was where the tour basically ended and the return trek began. 
R.Mc Carty, Havasupai Elementary: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:48PM PST (-0800 GMT)
The small stream flowed clear and they talked about how it use to be green when cattle were raised up above.
R.Mc Carty, Havasupai Elementary: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:49PM PST (-0800 GMT)
On the trip home we saw a group of over 100 dolphins. The sight was amazing! We watched them swim beside the boat.
R.Mc Carty, Havasupai Elementary: . . . . Wed, May 14, 2:50PM PST (-0800 GMT)
We also caught shots of whales on our ride home.
*~*Angel Lee*~* Tiospaye Topa: . . . . Wed, May 14, 3:09PM PST (-0800 GMT)
On Tuesday May 13, 2003 about thirty people including myself set off for Santa Rosa Island at 4:00 a.m. Santa Rosa is one of six islands known collectively as the Channel Islands. They are located about 160 miles from the coast of Southern California. This great distance can either be traveled by boat or airplane. We sailed on a vessel known as the Truth for four hours each way. Two hours into the boat ride, we encountered porpoise and common dolphins (Delphainus delphus) at 34.08 86°N 119.57 06°W. There were about 350 creatures all together. After everyone had awoke and eaten breakfast we introduced ourselves and were given brief safety instructions. There were several people from the Channel Islands National Park and the Channel Islands Marine Sanctuary.
*~*Angel Lee*~* TTS: . . . . Wed, May 14, 3:12PM PST (-0800 GMT)
The boat pulled as close as possible to the pier so we could jump across to a ladder. Although this task was a bit daunting everyone made it onto the pier safely. It was very cold on the pier due to the wind. Our exact location at our starting point was 34.00854°N 120.04704°W. There was also a very pungent, unappealing smell from the bird defecation built up over many years. A few of our knowledgeable guides gave us a brief history while on the pier. Santa Rosa Island has been very secluded since the relocation of the Chumash people. After they had departed the island was primarily used to raise livestock. At first sheep were the primary focus of the owners, the Vale and Vicar families. After a twelve-year resting period cattle were brought in. This pier was made of wooden planks and was used to load and unload cattle. There was an innovative mechanism to get the cattle off the pier and onto the barge safely. The guides placed an emphasis on the historical aspect of this cattle farm because they maintained the ranching methodologies of the Civil War era throughout the late 1900’s. 
*~*Angel Lee*~* TTS: . . . . Wed, May 14, 3:13PM PST (-0800 GMT)
We left the dock and began walking up a moderately steep hill. On top of this hill there were eucalyptus trees that were growing sideways! This occurs because of the year round windy conditions. These trees were not native and were actually brought over to help block the wind so the crop seed would not be blown away. We couldn’t get very close because there was a huge plank fence covered in moss or lichen. 
There were several buildings and all appeared to have been repainted within the last year (red with white trim, houses were white with green). 
The location of the ranch and pier were specifically chosen because of the high amount of wind. This aided in the ability of sailing vessels to approach and leave the island.
*~*Angel Lee*~* TTS: . . . . Wed, May 14, 3:13PM PST (-0800 GMT)
We then walked alongside the ranch and stopped for a few last instructions. A stress on the time was placed, not only the time that the ship was leaving but also how many hours we were going to be on the island. I knew right then that I would have to stick close to somebody with a watch because I don’t wear one. We also learned that there were non-native deer and elk on the island. One intimidating piece of information was that rodents on this island had tested positive for Hantavirus. While we were resting on the picnic tables one of the park crew picked a very interesting specimen, the crystalline ice plant (Mesembryanthemum crystallinum). 
This was actually brought over by Spanish sailors and is used as a natural form of salt. This property enables this plant to survive here because when it dies it raise the salinity (saltiness) of the soil around it. This makes it hard for other plants to grow here. At this point we were informed that our pace was going to pick up which worried a few people because most people had 10+ pound backpacks on.
We walked for about a mile until we came to a fork in the road. The scenery reminded me of home. The grass and terrain were very similar to those on the west side of the Cheyenne River Reservation. 
The reason for the similarity is that most of the grasses on the island are non-native species. At this point our exact location was 33.99352°N 120.04382°W. We were given two options: explore the campgrounds and canyon on the right or hike two more miles and explore Water Canyon Beach and the big drop off to the ocean. Most of our group chose to keep on hiking. It warmed up quite a bit and we had to remove our sweaters. There weren’t very many observations to make because most of the surrounding habitat was grassland.
*~*Angel Lee*~* TTS: . . . . Wed, May 14, 3:13PM PST (-0800 GMT)
We were 30 feet down in the canyon and stopped for a rest at 33.99309°N and 120.04095°W. It was very cool and sweet smelling. The sounds of ocean swells beating on the shore could be heard from our location. We learned about the year round creek known as Clap Springs. It was advised not to drink the water due to the presence of Giardia lamblia but our trusty tour guide Carl Demangate tested the water. 
At one time the water was neon colored due to the amount of contaminants in it. These contaminants came from cow, deer and elk feces. This was also one of the reasons that the island isn’t used for livestock anymore. The National Parks crew had planted bulrushes to help speed up the cleaning of the creek. On the side of the cliff native plants like chaparral, brush, coastal sage, lemonade berry, Northern Ireland morning glory, and Santa Cruz Island buckwheat were making a comeback with the absence of the cattle. We also saw a species of Dudleya (maybe gnoma?) growing into the cliff walls. The word dudleya means live forever and the characteristic of this plant that caught my eye was its amazing color. It was green in the center and pink toward the tip of the leaf but there weren’t any flowers to help identify the exact species.
*~*Angel Lee*~* TTS: . . . . Wed, May 14, 3:14PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Our group continued up a very steep hill and continued for about another mile to a Torrey tree grove. 
On our way there I slid down a small hill while trying to get a better look at this vibrantly colored flower. 
Our location was 33.9863°N 120.02880°W. The Torrey pine tree is one of the most isolated species because they grow on this island and in San Diego. When the Chumash inhabited the island there were about several thousand trees, however, this dwindled to several hundred due to disease. We stopped for a break and learned more about the original inhabitants of this island. 
One of the most fascinating facts was that 13,000-year-old human remains were found on this island. They are the oldest human remains found in the world. Before heading to an actual Chumash site we learned about the rise and fall of their society. Interestingly, it revolved around the ability to cut circular holes in beads used as money.
*~*Angel Lee*~* TTS: . . . . Wed, May 14, 3:14PM PST (-0800 GMT)
From this point we walked several hundred feet to the site and the big drop off to the ocean. The Chumash used this site, which was richly embedded with different types of shellfish, to prepare food. Our exact location was 33.987°N 120.02655°W 
Around this visible work site was porous volcanic rock. A volcanic base with overlying sedimentary rock formed this particular island. Although the Earth/Space science class read about this type of rock it is very hard to imagine the word porous when applying to this size of rock. While looking directly over the drop off a brown sea otter was taking a nap. 
At this time our group was allowed to split up and go hiking around the island on our own.
*~*Angel Lee*~* TTS: . . . . Wed, May 14, 3:14PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Mrs. Mendoza, Mrs. Smith and I decided to go back to Clap Springs and go to the beach from there. The beach was very clean and peaceful. We took a small break and began walking down the beach looking for a shortcut back to the pier. There wasn’t one without the option of swimming so we hiked up a steep hill. Mrs. Mendoza found an old Styrofoam cup and did her part for the environment by taking back ashore and disposing of it properly. At this point Mrs. Smith figured we had walked about 4.5 miles around the island. We were nearing our boarding time so we hustled back to the pier. The wind had picked up quite a bit so we were forced to crawl down a ladder and jump into a skiff to get back aboard the Truth.
*~*Angel Lee*~* TTS: . . . . Wed, May 14, 3:14PM PST (-0800 GMT)
On the way back to Santa Barbara Harbour we were able to see whales. Their location was 34.07817°N 119.90505°W. They were quite a bit away but we could see their tail fins as they were diving. Our boat headed to Santa Cruz to view Painted Cave. 
Our location here was 34.07130°N 119.86014°W. Everyone was able to see Medusa jellyfish, colored sea stars (purple and orange), loons, mud swallows, and western gulls. Our boat went into the cave and then reemerged. 
Some interesting facts about Santa Cruz Island are that it is a subduction zone and has an earthquake fault running through it. The island is actually being uplifted and eroding at the same time. About an hour into the boat ride from Santa Cruz we saw hundreds of common dolphins. They swam in front and alongside the boat. 
They were very playful and it seemed like they were trying to race the boat. This event made it an excellent trip.
*~*Angel Lee*~* TTS: . . . . Wed, May 14, 3:15PM PST (-0800 GMT)
On the way back to Santa Barbara Harbour we were able to see whales. Their location was 34.07817°N 119.90505°W. They were quite a bit away but we could see their tail fins as they were diving. Our boat headed to Santa Cruz to view Painted Cave. Our location here was 34.07130°N 119.86014°W. Everyone was able to see Medusa jellyfish, colored sea stars (purple and orange), loons, mud swallows, and western gulls. Our boat went into the cave and then reemerged. Some interesting facts about Santa Cruz Island are that it is a subduction zone and has an earthquake fault running through it. The island is actually being uplifted and eroding at the same time. About an hour into the boat ride from Santa Cruz we saw hundreds of common dolphins. They swam in front and alongside the boat. They were very playful and it seemed like they were trying to race the boat. This event made it an excellent trip.
*~*Angel Lee*~* TTS: . . . . Wed, May 14, 3:17PM PST (-0800 GMT)
On Tuesday May 13, 2003 about thirty people including myself set off for Santa Rosa Island at 4:00 a.m. Santa Rosa is one of six islands known collectively as the Channel Islands. They are located about 160 miles from the coast of Southern California. This great distance can either be traveled by boat or airplane. We sailed on a vessel known as the Truth for four hours each way. Two hours into the boat ride, we encountered porpoise and common dolphins (Delphainus delphus) at 34.08 86°N 119.57 06°W. There were about 350 creatures all together. After everyone had awoke and eaten breakfast we introduced ourselves and were given brief safety instructions. There were several people from the Channel Islands National Park button and the Channel Islands Marine Sanctuary button .
*~*Angel Lee*~* TTS: . . . . Wed, May 14, 3:17PM PST (-0800 GMT)
The boat pulled as close as possible to the pier so we could jump across to a ladder. Although this task was a bit daunting everyone made it onto the pier safely. It was very cold on the pier due to the wind. Our exact location at our starting point was 34.00854°N 120.04704°W. There was also a very pungent, unappealing smell from the bird defecation built up over many years. A few of our knowledgeable guides gave us a brief history while on the pier. Santa Rosa Island has been very secluded since the relocation of the Chumash people. After they had departed the island was primarily used to raise livestock. At first sheep were the primary focus of the owners, the Vale and Vicar families. After a twelve-year resting period cattle were brought in. This pier was made of wooden planks and was used to load and unload cattle. There was an innovative mechanism to get the cattle off the pier and onto the barge safely. The guides placed an emphasis on the historical aspect of this cattle farm because they maintained the ranching methodologies of the Civil War era throughout the late 1900’s.
*~*Angel Lee*~* TTS: . . . . Wed, May 14, 3:17PM PST (-0800 GMT)
We left the dock and began walking up a moderately steep hill. On top of this hill there were eucalyptus trees that were growing sideways! This occurs because of the year round windy conditions. These trees were not native and were actually brought over to help block the wind so the crop seed would not be blown away. We couldn’t get very close because there was a huge plank fence covered in moss or lichen.
There were several buildings and all appeared to have been repainted within the last year (red with white trim, houses were white with green). The location of the ranch and pier were specifically chosen because of the high amount of wind. This aided in the ability of sailing vessels to approach and leave the island.
: . . . . Mon, May 19, 8:06PM PST (-0800 GMT)
SANTA ROSA GALLERY of IMAGES Island Poppy ... Entrance to Painted Cave on Santa Cruz Island ..... plants on fallen tree stump .... somebidy napping .... listening and thinking ....
: . . . . Mon, May 19, 8:09PM PST (-0800 GMT)
island shoreline .... prehistoric midden heap from early chumash inhabitants ...
: . . . . Mon, May 19, 8:12PM PST (-0800 GMT)
Our Intrepid Campers From New Mexico ... South Dakota ... 
and the group together including Arizona and California too!
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Fri, May 23, 9:47AM PST (-0800 GMT)
12:00 NOON
At the Chumash site at Blackrock, I’m sitting on the vocanic rocks looking out into the unending, vastness of the Pacific Ocean……. In my state of solitude I’m amazed at the different world I’m in, water, water everywhere, it stretches out into the horizon for miles and miles. The dark, blueness of the ocean is foreboding, here the water is in command…have to respect it – we are at its mercy…have to respect it!……… I’m imagining what it must have been like 10,000 to 13,000 years ago. This area was the Chumash domain, and it must have been quite a sight to see all the sailing activity, as they went from island to island to trade among one another. 
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Fri, May 23, 10:05AM PST (-0800 GMT)
12:30 P.M.
As I’m looking out, I feel at peace, I’m happy, I’m amazed, I’m invigorated, I’m healthy, and I’m refreshed. My inner thoughts are not out of control, but there is a lot of electrical activity going on inside me…….. My thoughts turn to my school, Casa Blanca Community School, in Bapchule, Arizona. I think about my colleagues, about how we’re all trying to make a positive influence on our boys and girls. About how we want our students to be courteous, and respectful, lifelong learners, … to become happy, productive, responsible adults and parents someday……. I think about how fortunate I am to be around the most dedicated staff, who truly care about one another, and who put their undying efforts into helping the boys and girls become happy, confident, smiling learners. 
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Fri, May 23, 10:08AM PST (-0800 GMT)
12:45 P.M.
Sitting here, looking out into the ocean, it’s very breezy, not windy. My beautifully, combed hair is beginning to stick out in all directions, getting very, very MESSED up! I’m glad no one here knows that, that’s not the real me!
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Fri, May 23, 11:11AM PST (-0800 GMT)
1:17 P.M.
We have hiked back to the pier, and our boat, “The Truth” is arriving to pick us up. The boat can’t dock beside the pier this time because of low tide, so we will have to climb down the ladder into a rubber boat. I think this is called a skiff – dingy? It can take only five hikers at a time, and I board with the first five. I can’t ever remember climbing a ladder, since I did it the last time about 55 years ago, climbing down into a Kiva. 
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Fri, May 23, 11:50AM PST (-0800 GMT)
1:20 P.M.
The first five of us have now climbed aboard “The Truth.” There are 31 of us Adventurers, so the skiff will have to shuttle back and forth to the pier a few times…….. It was “fun” climbing up the ladder to the top of the pier, and then having to climb down into the rubber dingy. If one were to be a “little” clumsy, the big, giant tub (Pacific Ocean) was delightfully opening its jaws!
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Fri, May 23, 0:00PM PST (-0800 GMT)
2:00 P.M.
We’re all aboard and are now heading back to the mainland, Santa Barbara. After our great adventure on Santa Rosa Island, and back aboard our boat, I think everyone is hungry. We’re all in the galley ordering sandwiches and other delights. I had a cup of Coke (we were using coffee cups) and a $5.00 burger, with a small bag of Fritos. The burger wasn’t bad…and it “did its thing.”
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Fri, May 23, 0:10PM PST (-0800 GMT)
2:33 P.M.
It’s Tuesday afternoon, and it’s dismissal time for the boys and girls at Casa Blanca Community School. Shouldn’t Mr. E! be checking off classes for end-of-the-day bus departures, instead of cruising the high seas? I hope no one finds out that he’s out here in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, just “kicking back.”
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Fri, May 23, 0:40PM PST (-0800 GMT)
2:45 P.M.
Squeals of excitement coming from my fellow Campers! Humpback whales have been sighted to our left at about 10:00 (clock direction). I’m looking around… Where? Where? Two of them are off at a distance of about 400 yards, and hard to see. We’re now a little closer to them and begin to try to take digital pictures……… They’re gracefully rising out the water and then tailing down. I was trying to time my shots so I could see them rise, but I think I failed. I managed to get a couple of distance shots as they were diving back down……… One, friendly National Park Naturalist was chatting with me and told me that humpbacks and blue whales exist in this particular region. The ocean depth in this area, as I was told, is about 150 to 200 feet. Out a ways, the depth becomes 2,000 feet!
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Fri, May 23, 0:56PM PST (-0800 GMT)
3:15 P.M.
We are now sailing along the north side of Santa Cruz Island. This is a volcanic island and number of caves have been carved out over time. 
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Fri, May 23, 1:36PM PST (-0800 GMT)
3:30 P.M.
We were told we had a treat in store for us…we would possibly be going INSIDE a cave called, Painted Cave. I’m thinking…must be a pretty big cave, because we’re on a mighty large boat………. And it was! What an awesome sight, and what a grand experience…everybody was ooohhing and aaahhing! True to its name, the cave was beautifully painted. We went quite a ways inside - our large boat and all. It was so huge inside that we had lots of room all around the boat, with the cave’s ceiling looming very high above us. I managed to take an award-winning digital shot of this magnificent wonder. 
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Fri, May 23, 2:04PM PST (-0800 GMT)
4:00 P.M.
Our treats and surprises weren’t over yet! Someone began yelling, “DOLPHINS at 3:00!” Sure enough, we spotted large water movements and splashing at about 300 yards. As we were sailing along, the dolphins began chasing us. They were closing in, 75 feet, 50 feet, 30 feet, 25 feet, 15 feet, 10 feet, 5 feet, 2 feet……… There were literally hundreds of them. The National Park Naturalist Volunteer who was with me told me that this many dolphins are called a Mega-Pod. She told me that there are probably about 6,000 of them because a large number of them are underwater as they are moving along. This army …pod…of dolphins was called a “Nursery Pod” because they had little babies with them, about the size of footballs……… They caught up and playfully swam alongside, under, in front of, and around us for quite a ways. They are fast, graceful swimmers, and they were just gliding along effortlessly. They finally said goodbye and parted from us around 4:15. That was one, happy, exciting, awesome, extraordinary, once-in-a-lifetime experience for me!
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Fri, May 23, 2:22PM PST (-0800 GMT)
4:45 P.M.
We’re just merrily, skipping along at this point. I think we’ve come a little ways down from our “high” now, and are “DOLPHINED OUT!”
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Fri, May 23, 2:30PM PST (-0800 GMT)
5:10 P.M.
We are about 30 minutes from the shores of Santa Barbara. It’s getting mighty foggy, breezy, and quite cold. Our fun-filled, exciting, excursion is about to come to an end.
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Fri, May 23, 2:46PM PST (-0800 GMT)
5:40 P.M.
Here we are, about to get our feet on solid ground, once again. Thank you, “TRUTH” for a mighty, fine ride. We have become friends. 
Mr. E!, Casa Blanca Community School: . . . . Fri, May 23, 3:19PM PST (-0800 GMT)
FINIS
Thank you, Marcy and the entire Camp Internet Staff. What an eventful, fun-filled, wide-eyed four-day learning experience we had. You-all gave us some kind of “CALIFORNIA WELCOME!” I think we all had a very rewarding and thankful time there, in Santa Barbara. We will take our training back to our schools and share our wonderful Camp Internet knowledge with our students and staff……… My “do” is now back in place and am presentable-looking again………. I have one question, for you all. Who is that distinguished, sweet-looking guy, on the left, in the “twurple” jacket? 