Author Archives: Shawn E. Bell

eBook

Scribd cuts off romance and erotica

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

Scribd, the subscription-based content platform has apparently alerted its publishing partners that it will be dropping a number of romance and erotica titles from its ebook catalog.  Smashwords CEO Mark Coker announced the news on the Smashwords website yesterday, along with the estimate that Scribd will drop 80-90% of the Smashwords romance and erotica titles.  Mark is a strong proponent of indie publishing, and has been critical about the viability of a subscription model for ebooks (Amazon has updated its author compensation model for their Kindle Unlimited subscription platform starting July 1, 2015; authors now get paid “per page” read).

From Mark Coker’s post:

Scribd, the fast-growing ebook subscription service, today announced dramatic cuts to their catalog of romance and erotica titles.

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Activities, Adventures, Conservation

Long Meadow Back Packing Trip – High Sierra Volunteer Trail Crew

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

Back Packing trip, rock work.

Event Date: 07/19/2015 – 07/25/2015
Cost: FREE

This is not any easy trip, high altitude and 5-7 mile long hike into and out of base camp. You are encouraged to stay over Saturday night at the trail head to acclimate. Please provide you own food for Saturday night and Sunday breakfast. Food will be provided Sunday lunch thru Saturday lunch. Crew will hike in the morning and should come out to trail head Saturday afternoon the following Saturday. This event is located in the in the Golden Trout Wilderness. An experienced crew leaders will train volunteers in general trail maintenance techniques and safe usage of hand tools. We will be removing brush and trees, repairing water bars, and installing water diversion structures. This is a beautiful area high in the Sierra, at least 6,000-7,500 ft. The nature of the topography, the distance of the hike into the base camp usually 5-7 miles and the work performed will make this a strenuous trip. There is no charge for this event, week long back packing trips usually cost at least $5,000 with 15 people participating that equals $300 per person. Please consider making a donation online or bringing a donation to the event. More detailed information will be sent to you after you sign up. Continue reading →

State Parks

California State Parks Welcomes Visitors for July Fourth Holiday Weekend

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

The California Department of Parks and Recreation says they’re ready to welcome visitors this July 4th weekend.  From their press release:

California State Parks expect to be busy this Fourth of July weekend. The majority of state park campgrounds are already sold out, particularly along the coastal areas and at many historic sites.

With fabulous parks and historic sites across the state, Californians have great options for celebrating the Fourth of July holiday, and State Parks wants to remind them to be safe, and familiarize themselves with some do’s and don’ts. Check out our list of the top 15 Fourth of July tips for park visitors including:

  • Heat Precautions – With triple digit temperatures predicted in some locations, take precautions against heat by staying hydrated and avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun.
  • Swim Responsibly – When cooling off, beach users should stay in designated swim areas and be alert for rip currents and sneaker waves.
  • Keep Connected – For any updates on State Parks, please visit our website www.parks.ca.gov, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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News, Wildlife

CSF Hosts 2nd Annual ‘California Wine, Wings & Wildlife’ Event in Sonoma

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

On June 29, in the heart of California’s wine country, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) gathered members of the sportsmen’s conservation community and other supporters for the 2nd Annual ‘California Wine, Wings & Wildlife,’ western regional event.

This event offered an opportunity for Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus (CSC) Members from the western United States and supporters of the sportsmen’s conservation community to discuss regional and federal policy priorities. It commenced with a sporting clays competition at the Wing & Barrel Ranch, followed by a wine reception and dinner.

CSF President Jeff Crane welcomed attendees. “We are fortunate to have strong supporters of the hunting and angling community in a beautiful place like Sonoma. Thank you to Members of Congress and CSF partners for joining us to discuss and celebrate the future of hunting and angling.” Crane also announced the sporting clays competition “Top Gun” shooter: Larry Turley, of Turley Wine Cellars.

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State Parks

Not too late to reserve a campsite for July 4th in California’s State Parks!

Posted on by Shawn E. Bell

According to the California State Parks press release, there’s still availability for camping in California’s beautiful state parks! From California State Parks:

Below is a list of 4th of July park availability from Friday, July 3, through Sunday, July 5, 2015. The list provides parks that are available for a one-day, two-day, or a three-day stay. Remember there is a 48-hour reservation window, which means the last day you can book your reservation is Wednesday, July 1, for arrival Friday, July 3.

Don’t forget what they say on their website: “Feel the breeze through the pines, smell an aromatic campfire, hear the waves gently lap the shoreline. It’s just like when you were a kid! Whether it’s near the beach, alongside a mighty redwood, or by a shimmering lake – this is life the way it should be. This is camping at California State Parks!”

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