Pole owl recognition ! !

[Sheldon Bowles]

The great pole owl movement continues to roll as more and more photographers who really care about the art of the craft realize the unique challenges posed by the capture of the truly excellent pole shot.

In this regard, I draw your attention to pbase's Photo of the Day today:

http://www.pbase.com/rachelita/image/74913974

Today pbase ---- tomorrow the world.

Granted, it's not a snowy, but a pole owl, is a pole owl, is a pole owl.

And us pole owl photographers have long memories (Ann)

Cheers

[Ron D]

Pole Owl Photogs Unite....:err:

[Keith]

I want to be a member too of the " Bird Pole Sitters Anonymous "
(BPSA) :brows:

Im sure I have some hydro poles as well :D

http://www.pbase.com/keithrankin/image/74932717/original.jpg

[Mao]

Before I join this honorable society I need to find a monumental pole and then to find a willing accomplice - dressed to the 9's in white.

[Bobby]

OK Sheldon, you got me, I'm in. I too now hope to be a member in good standing. If I get voted in that is.


http://bobbyb.smugmug.com/photos/132491676-O.jpg

[Gale]

Pole Eagles
http://www.pbase.com/techwish/image/72257713.jpg

I think I qualify:>)))
hahahahaha

" Bird Pole Sitters Anonymous "

[Rudi]

What about me? I want to be a member... rolleyes;

http://rudiphoto.zenfolio.com/img/p511604750.jpg

http://rudiphoto.zenfolio.com/img/p744139940.jpg

[Jim]

Mind if I join in, I want to be a member too please . :)

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/37/100766182_b6cbf08c48.jpg

[Sheldon Bowles]

The first rule of membership for this society has to be that you don't make the founder look bad.

All applicants have, to date, made me look like a total schmuck!

Haaaaarrrrruph!

On the other hand you have all shown respect for the ancient and honorable traditions of the society by posting some truly great pictures.

I shall spend the day closeted with our accounting team at the plant reviewing our March budget papers. They will think I am in deep thought considering whether or not we should hedge our stainless steel purchases through June, or August. I shall actually be considering the merits of applications.

This weighty work shall likely wear me out to the point that I need to leave the office early and come home for a pick-me-up rum and coke. On the theory if the first was good, a second will be better, I'll likely have several.

Past experience suggests that later today you may all be accepted 'warmly' or shall squirm under a tongue lashing the likes of which hasn't been heard around this house since ..... well you don't need the details, I'm still picking salt out of my wounds.

Cheers

[Harv]

If it has to be an owl, I suppose I can't join. All I have is one of my very first osprey-on-a-pole shots from early last year. If this will qualify, I would be proud to become a member of such an elite group.

http://harveyg.smugmug.com/photos/132516338-O.jpg

[Ann]

If it has to be an owl, I suppose I can't join. All I have is one of my very first osprey-on-a-pole shots from early last year. If this will qualify, I would be proud to become a member of such an elite group.


I need to know this answer too. All I have on a pole is a osprey, I do have some small bird that is unreconizable on a post too.
Cause I sure would like to join. :biggrin:

[billw]

I'm For "Bird Pole Sitters"
http://www.pbase.com/image/69043983.jpg

[Gale]

lol
Devil on pole
http://www.pbase.com/techwish/image/51151169.jpg

[Bohdan]

Doing the pole "nasty"


http://alterego.smugmug.com/photos/64788115-L.jpg

[E.B. West]

I guess I'll add one even though it's not an owl.

http://ebinfl.smugmug.com/photos/123562641-L.jpg

[Mao]

Hope I qualify.

http://wireless-1.smugmug.com/photos/118946939-O.jpg

[Charlemagne]

Ohhh Ohhhh. Me too me too!!!!!

http://images17.fotki.com/v305/photos/5/548424/2234391/redshouldered1-vi.jpg

I know.. not an owl but hey.. its definately a pole!!

Charles

[Ann]

Here's my pole sitter! :brows:

http://www.pbase.com/ann44/image/58944134.jpg

[Harv]

I love this thread. It's like the association game. :biggrin:

[Sheldon Bowles]

The Ancient and Honorable Order of Pole Owl Photographers' governing body, The Mystic Order of The Clan, both common and extra plenipotentiary, has met in solemn conclave and decreed the following:

A) A bird, is a bird is a bird. Who are we, us mere follops of the Great Lens Maker In The Sky, to decree one bird better than another. (Note, the inclusion of the ostrich and the Galapagos flightless cormorant was not an easy sell on this one.)

B) The above applicants have shown great disrespect to Founder Sheldon by posting pole pictures that make his humble offerings seem like (as one extra plenipotentiary put it, "crap.") Sadly, despite strong protests from myself, this was held to be a worthy act, it being noted with ill disguised glee that at 185 pounds on the scale this morning I was a good 15 pounds overweight. The relevance of my need for a tummy tuck in this context was left mercifully unexplained.

C) Accordingly, all above applicants were approved with much banging of tables, clinking of glasses and toasts to all poles: voting, electrical, fence, valuting, telephone (both kinds,) geographic, cat, magnetic and ethnic.

And so it falls to me to pretend I'm happy about this and welcome you all as members of The Ancient and Honorable Order of Pole Owl Photogaphers with all of the rights, privileges thereto appertaining.

So say we all.

Congratulations. You now have full use of the club house (tie in the dinning room after six, please) locker rooms ( his, hers, and undecided,) unlimited bar tab privileges in the High ISO Lounge, and priority use of the billiard tables.

And, when negotiating a bank loan, buying lunch at McDonalds, or simply sending a Happy Easter card to names picked at random from the phone book to drive them nuts, you have the right to place T.A.H.O. P.O.P. behind your name, or simply, POP for short.

Future applicants shall face the same rigorous approval process, but to save time the Mystic Order of The Clan, has approved several likely candidates in advance, provided their photographic offerings are, I regret to say, of a caliber sufficient to cause further humiliation to myself --- a level of competence, one member pointed out, that "a two year old with a Brownie" could meet.

God Bless all Pixel Shooters and Confusion to our Enemies!

[Mao]

We embrace your regal appointment. Wooohoooo.

Mao Ouyang, T.A.H.O. P.O.P (R) ....the R is for registered....Yay.

[Harv]

Thank you, Sheldon, Oh Exhalted One. As you can see, I have affixed my new credentials to the end of my signature and have done so with a level of pride never before experienced.

[Alex Paul]

Umm I must sit this one out however I love your shot Sheldon :)

[Rudi]

I'm gonna have to get me some new business cards... :D

[Sheldon Bowles]

At this time the members in good standing are: Keith, bobbyb, Gale, Rudi, Jesk, Harvey, Ann, Bill, Bohan, E.B., Mao, Charles and Sheldon. A lucky 13!

You are all founding members of this illustrious group.

Further, I am pleased to announce that Alex Paul is being granted associate status. He says he is going to "sit this one out," and The Mystic Order of The Clan assumes he is doing so atop a pole.

And to think, the people passing my office door think I'm busy fluffing air at a customer, or working on the new strategic plan!

Cheers.

[Desert Rat]

But now what a freakin minute here the order is about pole owl photographers? most of the founding members don't have Owls sitting on poles, but have hawks and woodpeckers on poles? What gives? I really think you need to rename your new order.. Oh exhalted one... :notworthy: :notworthy: :notworthy: I call fowl.. yes fowl i say...

[Rudi]

.... and the feathers were flying.... :D

[Mao]

and the band played on....

[Sheldon Bowles]

First, read this from above at 12:17 a.m. today:

"A) A bird, is a bird is a bird. Who are we, us mere follops of the Great Lens Maker In The Sky, to decree one bird better than another."

Second, owl is but a metaphor for the mystical experience of life. In this case anchored to the here and now through the natural medium of wood, or the man made medium of steel or concrete. In either case you have the juxtaposition of animate with inanimate, life atop that (pole) which is often used to mark death, or in the case of coastal totem poles the actual mortuary where a grave box can be placed in the recessed back. As with the Orthodox Rite of the Yukon Church, the essence of wing and feather takes precedence over the genus Bubo scandiacus, known prior to 2002 as genus Nyctea scandiaca.

I trust this clears this up for you Desert Rat.

[Art]

I might as well hop on the pole wagon and toss one in:):)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v737/GTRplr99/snowypole1.jpg

[Sheldon Bowles]

Well Art, you've more than succeeded in making me look bad with this great pole shot and it now falls to me to welcome you as a founding member of the Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographs.

Your name shall be inscribed in the Mystic Book and the catalog of various jackets, vestments, pins and ceremonial robes will be out to you shortly.

The designation: T.A.H.O.P.O.P. (The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers) may now, if you wish, be added to your signature line here. You may also wish to have your bank add it to your checks the next time you have them printed. Passport offices, to date, have been reluctant to use it in passports, much less install the fast lane we have asked for for the exclusive use of members, but I'm sure this is just a matter of time.

Congratulations. It must be comforting to know that if you die tonight those left behind will be able to place T.A.H.O.P.O.P. proudly after your name in the obituary notice. Certainly it is the signature and defining accomplishment of my life.

[Gerald]

Oh Great and Exalted Founder Sheldon, I am on bended knees extending my meager offering for consideration of membership to T.A.H.O.L.M.P.O.D.F. or whatever this group is called!!!

http://www.pbase.com/gerald_r/image/54013836/original.jpg

[Sheldon Bowles]

Gerald, you are an owler of some considerable skill whose posts, including this one, have humbled (well, should have humbled) my good self for many, many months now.

You sir are #15 in the ever growing, much in demand, and coveted Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers.

Your baseball cap with the order's logo is in the mail.

While permissible, there is, contrary to rumors on the Shout Board, no need to tattoo a pole sitting owl on either arm.

Registration forms for the first annual convention to follow.

Congratulations and welcome, Gerald.

As for you other owlers and birders out there in Pixel Land, birds of a feather may flock together, but any poled feather thing is acceptable for membership --- heck, a branch is as good as a pole! We're nothing if not flexible. Our roster remains open for roosters to owls, from sparrows to albatross.

Onwards and upwards .....

[Bobby]

My God, I'm up to my arse in Owl guano. However I must admit I'm proud to be a member of ,
T.A.H.O.P.O.P,
as WC Fields once said when offered a membership to an exclusive country club,"I would never join a club that would have me as a member". In this case I guess I'll make an exception.

[Lisa]

Not an owl, but we don't see them here ;) oh, and we don't have poles either. Oh, what the heck...:cute:

http://www.pbase.com/image/75066725.jpg

[Ron D]

Here are a couple for my attempt at entry into the most exalted order of Fowl Pole sitters to our great and wonderful benefactor Mr. Sheldon Bowles

http://byteme.smugmug.com/photos/123025372-L.jpg

http://byteme.smugmug.com/photos/113845754-L.jpg


Entry to this most illustrious group is hard won and most cherished, I am humbly looking forward to your most prised opinion....:err:

[Lisa]

Ron, those are awesome. Wow, what a beauty that first one is. Well done....

[Sheldon Bowles]

Lisa, I am pleased, proud, and down right tickled pink, to announce that the 16th membership in The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers has been bestowed upon you.

Your 'owl' is certainly on a pole, although a little baldish in the face feather department compared with some other owls. However, seeing as a sparrow on a twig seems acceptable to the admissions committee with only a very small bribe, your bird, whatever it is, is totally sufficient to earn you the coveted designation of T.A. H. O. P. O. P. ---- don't you just bristle with joy reading those magic letters?

The actual ceremony of admission will be held during the spring conclave at a secret site (Keith's backyard) to be revealed in the fullness of time.

As for Ron's startlingly good offerings, they have been taken under advisement by the admissions committee who shall report later. (Translation: I have to go help my wife with her mother right now and then off to the office.)

[Joe F.N.]

Ron that first one appears to have been placed there as part of a totem pole display. Great shots.

[Lisa]

Lisa, I am pleased, proud, and down right tickled pink, to announce that the 16th membership in The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers has been bestowed upon you.

Your 'owl' is certainly on a pole, although a little baldish in the face feather department compared with some other owls. However, seeing as a sparrow on a twig seems acceptable to the admissions committee with only a very small bribe, your bird, whatever it is, is totally sufficient to earn you the coveted designation of T.A. H. O. P. O. P. ---- don't you just bristle with joy reading those magic letters?

:notworthy: Thank you, Sheldon! I am humbled especially considering that I had only meager offerings......never hurts to try. ;) Does this mean I can add the red letters at the end of my sig????:cheer: :cheer:

[Peter]

Can I join to, or are you all filled up.:biggrin:
http://www.pbase.com/decor/image/53855994/original.jpg

[Sheldon Bowles]

:notworthy: Thank you, Sheldon! I am humbled especially considering that I had only meager offerings......never hurts to try. ;) Does this mean I can add the red letters at the end of my sig????:cheer: :cheer:

Oh yes! BIG RED LETTERS !!!

Makes me want to weep just thinking how wonderful it will be to see the designation in your sig.

As for Ron, the jury is still out. Translation: Looks like this meeting I'm in is going to end and I'll need to look awake as it does --- especially as I'm the chairman of the meeting. Nice thing about turning the lights down for a power point presentation is that I can come to the back of the room and Pixel Shoot while the rest of them look at the screen.

Better go ... later Ron

[Sheldon Bowles]

Ron D. It gives me particular pleasure to tell you that this afternoon at a family funeral (I kid you not, a favourite aunt at 89 gone!) I had ample opportunity to convene a meeting of the admission's committee between Abide By Me and Amazing Grace during what was billed as "The Message" to deal with your status and you are hereby admitted to The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photograhers.

Your entry is with distinction as the first shot above goes so far beyond what is necessary to make me look bad that it can only be seen as the ultimate slur on my pole owl ability ---- although several other submissions have also make me look like a complete twerp.

You sir are #17 in an elite group of talented, and not so talented (me) photographers who appreciate the beauty of feathers atop a pole.

Initiation rutuals involving the dispatching of chickens and the roasting of a whole pig in a pit are slated for warmer weather in June. You may wish to being collecting feathers for your head dress and "G" string now. The music for your dance will be sent to you two weeks prior to the event.

Now, I must away to the post funeral reception at the home of the son who has assured me that unlike the tea and coffee offering in the church basement following the service, will feature a "real drink."

Thus fortified, I expect to return later and deal with Peter and his desire to be #18.

And I notice that one of our esteemed moderators ---- those with all passwords --- have altered my penguin logo to identify me as the founder of this illustrious group. Neat ! ! Thank You.

[Gerald]

Gerald, you are an owler of some considerable skill whose posts, including this one, have humbled (well, should have humbled) my good self for many, many months now.

You sir are #15 in the ever growing, much in demand, and coveted Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers.

Your baseball cap with the order's logo is in the mail.

While permissible, there is, contrary to rumors on the Shout Board, no need to tattoo a pole sitting owl on either arm.

Registration forms for the first annual convention to follow.

Congratulations and welcome, Gerald.

As for you other owlers and birders out there in Pixel Land, birds of a feather may flock together, but any poled feather thing is acceptable for membership --- heck, a branch is as good as a pole! We're nothing if not flexible. Our roster remains open for roosters to owls, from sparrows to albatross.

Onwards and upwards .....

Thank you very much, exalted founder!

My ball cap hasn't shown up yet, & where the heck do you get those fancy red letters?

[Desert Rat]

Well, this is the best I can do for now... Not many raptors sit on posts around these parts...

http://www.pbase.com/desertrat99/image/63661030.jpg

[Kevin]

I didn't realize people kept their pole shots. ;)

35;

067;

:667:

[Sheldon Bowles]

Thank you very much, exalted founder!

My ball cap hasn't shown up yet, & where the heck do you get those fancy red letters?

It's coming by Canada Post (what else, you expect FedEx from a post group?) and given Canada Post's recent track record, I'd not hold my breath --- but keep watching the mail box!

As for the fancy red letters, I stole them in a cut and paste. No honor amongst thieves or Pole Owl Photographers.

Cheers,

[Sheldon Bowles]

Now we deal with Peter, our Nightowl.

You sir are #18, and in this we are unanimous!

You have actually submitted an owl --- a beautiful snowy --- on top of a post! And no snow, and you are at eye level. Amazing.

Even without the lubrication of a post funeral reception I would tell you it is an honor to have your fine self part of this over the top, ego driven group of over achievers led by a definite also ran. But there is no shame in being an also ran to our now 18 members!

And so, in the fullness of time, and with several rather sufficient rum and diet cokes under my belt, I lightly touch a 600mm lens on each of your shoulders and bid you rise to take your rightful place amongst the pantheon of your peers who proudly proclaim themselves members of The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers. This society of overachievers is not some rag tag lot as may be found on other internet photo groups. Oh no! T.A.H.O.P.O.P. membership is strictly limited to those who apply, although consideration is being given to granting associate status to some who are either too proud, or too modest, to actually ask.

Your official induction, Peter, shall be by total immersion in the river Ganges at a time and place of your choosing --- first class airfare, and several nights at the Ritz Carlton for your fellow members being all that is asked of you.

We are delighted to have you Peter --- go get those pole shots!

[Sheldon Bowles]

Eric, our Desert Rat, and a fine fellow by any standard is to be admitted to The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers as #19 --- an auspicious number for those who follow the Ramgoolian calendar of lunar passings. I do not follow the Ramgoolian calendar, for when I did the bank would have nothing to do with my suggestion that for religious reasons I was only able to make payments once every 187 days by their day reckoning. But that's another story for another time.

The business at hand is a proper welcome to Eric and much laud and honour to his pole sitting raptor, which meets and exceeds the three essential requirements of membership. First it is a bird, second it is on a pole (or at least something) and third, it makes Sheldon's offering look like doofass. Doofass is as doofass does, as Forest Gump would remind us and after this fine, fine photograph the wonder is that Sheldon has the brass to show up at all, rather than slinking away into the undergrowth. But show up I do, if for no other reason than to be humiliated by 19 other Pixel Shooters.

Eric, some considerable thought and effort has gone into a proper venue and event to mark your rite of passage to full peoplehood (Canadians aren't allowed to use sexist words like manhood anymore) and membership in T.A.H.O.P.O.P. Pity Peter got the typhoid infected Ganges River event --- it's a killer! However, we can do no less for you. An email has been sent to the Vatican to see if they might allow a small event in front of the Bernini Alter --- although the events following the last Pixel Shooter event there may well us getting a fair hearing this time. But stay tuned.

In the meantime your cap, a 2005 copy of the Radio Canada guide, and several other non essential items will be on its way to you.

Not since Johnny Cash played the Arizona State Fair has their been such excitement in Los Angeles!

Welcome Eric !! !

[Ron D]

Thank you most exalted one....

I will look forward to the ritualistic party at a later date ( mind you a G-string is like spandex, it is a privilege for a few, not a right:biglaugh:),

[Rudi]

I didn't realize people kept their pole shots. ;)

35;

067;

:667:

Ummm... why? What do you do with yours, Kevin??? :D

[Keith]

Founding member, Im honored Sir Sheldon :D I shall carry the name with pride. Guess I need some new fancy business cards now :brows:

[Sheldon Bowles]

Founding member, Im honored Sir Sheldon :D I shall carry the name with pride. Guess I need some new fancy business cards now :brows:

Certainly, a new business card would help if you are expecting to take advantage of the group discount with Canon and Nikon products available to members (many thanks to Rudi for negotiating the terms, limited though they may be to the Ayers Rock stores for now.)

The sun has arrived back in Winnipeg for the first time in weeks. The call of the owls sitting on poles within 25 miles or so is irresistible --- I am filled with yearning to stalk the viscious snowy beast on the arctic tundra of rural Manitoba farmland. I go forth (or sixth, for that matter) to battle the vagaries of light, snow blue sky and white owl atop wire infested wooden poles. Would that Mao were here, dressed in furry kevlar, fleet of foot, to lure these beasts attention from the ever interpid pole owl photographer valiantly creeping within 800 feet of the foul fanged avengers.

Go thou membership, and do likewise!

Membership lists remain open ......

[StanM]

Sheldon - I want to join this elite society as well !! But I don't have an owl - will this do :)

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c114/alpha788/hawk2640x480-1.jpg

[Sheldon Bowles]

Stan is a shoo in for #20 !

First, his pole shot is fabulous. It has, "Sheldon, you are a dweeb," written all over it. Matter of fact I showed it to Penny, (my wife of the past 40 years, nine months, four days and five hours, but who's counting?) as she is a great birder, thinking she would like it. I think she did, but what she said was, "How come he can take such a clear picture with all the colors right and you can't?" I used to be able to say, "it's the camera, dear," but since that git National Geographic Photographer in Antarctica was using a 20D such as I have, that has become a more difficult sell.

Second, Stan is such a fabulous Pixel Shooter he'd rank even if all he did was send in a shot of a pole. The guy joined us in December, and as of this writing has sent us 333 posts, and his recent Wood Duck post contains more pictures in one post than I've sent in all the months I've been a member.

Third, Stan has been unwell and I'd not want to do anything to upset his recovery.

Fourth, Stan is no fool. If you look at the upper right hand corner of this post you'll see, top row, right hand end, a VERY nice gift sent to me by Stan.

If your official cap doesn't arrive Stan, blame Canada Post.

In the meantime arrangements are being made for your induction in the totem pole garden in Stanley Park on the eve of the summer solstice --- we'll be on just after the Wica folk and before the Druids. After the Druids the Vancouver City Council is doing a tourist thing for the Alaska Cruise people which apparently involves numerous scantily clad 20 year olds from over Wreck Beach way doing some dance with tassels, so we'll want to be sure to clear out early. If any B.C. members have a stuffed owl (Keith and Peter's wonderful collection of stuffed snowies will be in for repair after a long hard winter of being dangled from sharp piano wire in the winds of Alberta) they might bring to glue atop a totem, this would be fitting.

Welcome Stan. We are delighted to have such a fine fellow and great photographer as #20.

[Sheldon Bowles]

Much thought and effort has been given to the induction of Eric, everyone's favorite desert rat.

First, after some investigation it has been determined that "desert rat" is in reference to his love of wide open sandy places and is not a nick name bestowed upon him by the military as a consequence of his going AWOL. I thought this best to clear up right at the start.

Second, I am pleased to announce that as Eric is a Los Angeles lad and likes to get out of the city for open places, arrangements have been made for the induction to commence on an Alberta Hutterite Colony. This Anabaptist sect is well known for it's rural lifestyle, strict conformity to standards, black clothing, head coverings for women and full beards for men, no televisions, radios, or CD players, and a tendancy to fullness of girth accounted for by the fact that they make THE most fabulous fries you'll ever eat anywhere.

Eric, being a California lad, will appreciate their daily 5 a.m. bible study class even though they are conducted in High German. Arrangements are being made for him to spend a week at the colony prior to the induction --- never let it be said The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers isn't concerned about the welfare of our members.

The two most important people on a colony are "The Boss," and "The Pig Man.' By special arrangement with The Boss, Eric will be able to spend his days casting whatever pearls he may have before the appropriate audience. In as much as pig farming has .... well, a peculiar odor, Eric won't actually be joining us for the induction ceremony --- a bar-b-que in Ann's backyard.

A word of caution to Eric: Be careful who you smile at, you might become engaged.

Three cheers for all Pixel Shooters, and especially those who are members of T.A.H.O.P.O.P. and if YOU would like to join, we still have a few choice spots available. Just send a pole picture with feathered creature, or in the case of vultures, partially feathered creature, or if you don't have such a shot, just a pole will do, or a sparrow on a twig, or lacking anything like that, most anything taken with your cel phone in the last year will do. And if you're like me, and don't really know how to post a picture --- forget the picture and just apply. We're nothing if not exclusive!

[StanM]

ROTFL!! :biglaugh: :biglaugh:

Thank you Great Founder and Exalted One for including your humble servant into this Sacred and Exalted Order - the VERY nice gift was just in case :)

Seriously, this has been a great thread, and Sheldon your inductee rituals and comments have been a hoot :biglaugh:

Now I can proudly add this association to my signature :cheer:

[Sheldon Bowles]

Stan you're a good lad, and I look forward to a day of nature photography on Wreck Beach with you some summer day. I'm not sure about poles but the last time I was there ( 30 years ago ??) there were lots of fine logs and many delightful "birds."

Gung ho friend, Sheldon

[Desert Rat]

Man Sheldon you really need to get get out more.. Oh Exhalted one... I bow at your feet... :notworthy: :notworthy: :notworthy:


Eric, our Desert Rat, and a fine fellow by any standard is to be admitted to The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers as #19 --- an auspicious number for those who follow the Ramgoolian calendar of lunar passings. I do not follow the Ramgoolian calendar, for when I did the bank would have nothing to do with my suggestion that for religious reasons I was only able to make payments once every 187 days by their day reckoning. But that's another story for another time.
The business at hand is a proper welcome to Eric and much laud and honour to his pole sitting raptor, which meets and exceeds the three essential requirements of membership. First it is a bird, second it is on a pole (or at least something) and third, it makes Sheldon's offering look like doofass. Doofass is as doofass does, as Forest Gump would remind us and after this fine, fine photograph the wonder is that Sheldon has the brass to show up at all, rather than slinking away into the undergrowth. But show up I do, if for no other reason than to be humiliated by 19 other Pixel Shooters.

Eric, some considerable thought and effort has gone into a proper venue and event to mark your rite of passage to full peoplehood (Canadians aren't allowed to use sexist words like manhood anymore) and membership in T.A.H.O.P.O.P. Pity Peter got the typhoid infected Ganges River event --- it's a killer! However, we can do no less for you. An email has been sent to the Vatican to see if they might allow a small event in front of the Bernini Alter --- although the events following the last Pixel Shooter event there may well us getting a fair hearing this time. But stay tuned.

In the meantime your cap, a 2005 copy of the Radio Canada guide, and several other non essential items will be on its way to you.

Not since Johnny Cash played the Arizona State Fair has their been such excitement in Los Angeles!

Welcome Eric !! !

[Desert Rat]

Now, wait one minute here.. Who decided that our own Sheldon should be the exalted one of the order? We, have enough in the group to take a vote and appoint a different leader... :err: :err: :huh:

So, what is this with singling out the Desert Rat? What happened to all these other members or new inductees of the group? :arghh: :arghh: They sure are a lot closer to Alberta and can spend the week with the Alberta Hutterite Colony. I mean all you Great White Northerners should be inducted first since you already live there don't you think? :biglaugh:

Well, actually i can somewhat speak German so that will not be a problem with the 5am bible study classes.. Anywhoo as a photographer you should be up before the sunrises anywhoo... Unless you are our very own Kevin who cannot seem to be up before sunrise... :couch:

[Kevin]

For your consideration.....

Afterall, an eagle does out-rank all other raptors. Taken yesterday while searching for Mike (mdephoto) unsuccessfully, I might add.

http://www.kevinpaavola.com/PixelShooter/030407Eagle.jpg

And yes, I occasionally arise before sunrise if I'm in the mood. ;)

[Rudi]

And yes, I occasionally arise before sunrise if I'm in the mood. ;)

I'm with you on this, Kevin - I ain't a morning person either! :)

[Gale]

The Regal Great Horned Owl watchith over you
http://www.pbase.com/techwish/image/74146118.jpg

[Sheldon Bowles]

Now, wait one minute here.. Who decided that our own Sheldon should be the exalted one of the order? We, have enough in the group to take a vote and appoint a different leader... :err: :err: :huh:

So, what is this with singling out the Desert Rat? What happened to all these other members or new inductees of the group? :arghh: :arghh: They sure are a lot closer to Alberta and can spend the week with the Alberta Hutterite Colony. I mean all you Great White Northerners should be inducted first since you already live there don't you think? :biglaugh:

Well, actually i can somewhat speak German so that will not be a problem with the 5am bible study classes.. Anywhoo as a photographer you should be up before the sunrises anywhoo... Unless you are our very own Kevin who cannot seem to be up before sunrise... :couch:

Eric will now be inducted at a Manitoba Hutterite colony. It is harsh, I know, but unless distension in the ranks (distension being a bloated form of dissension, by the way) is dealt with firmly and early there is no telling what disharmony might arise.

One thing Eric may not understand is that Alberta is to Canada, what La Jolla is to California. If Willie Sutton were asked why he robbed Albertans he'd point out it was because, 'that's where the money is.' Further, Eric may not realize that earlier today when I awoke, with windchill it was thirty seven below zero in Winnipeg. Without the windchill it was near twenty five below. Alberta is where the natural gas comes from that heats my shower. If an Albertan wants to be inducted at the Ritz-Carlton ballroom, then the Ritz-Carlton it will be. Californians, being short on natural gas, Signal Hill, or no Signal Hill, get the Hutterite colony --- and now Eric gets a Manitoba Hutterite colony.

One more peep of protest from Eric and he'll be bunked with the Jakob Hofer family.

[Sheldon Bowles]

I'm with you on this, Kevin - I ain't a morning person either! :)

No self respecting T.A.H.O.P.O.P member should be up before eight except under the most extraordinary conditions. (I have found a wife wanting you out of the house, either for the convenience of the cleaning lady, or the wife's sanity, to be an extraordinary condition.)

If you want a picture of the sunrise, either head to Churchill in December when you can pick it up around noon, or do the sensible thing and take a picture of a sunset and call it a sunrise.

Thus say we all ....

[Rudi]

Yesterday afternoon, we had a large thunderstorm move through, and it got wet and COLD! I was absolutely FREEZING, even after my bike ride and a shower. Then I looked at the outside temperature on my weather station - NO WONDER! It was 19.8 degrees C! And this is the end of summer! Unacceptable!!! (Below 20C is considered COLD around here! :D).

[Kevin]

...<snip>....
One more peep of protest from Eric and he'll be bunked with the Jakob Hofer family.

I love it! Have a backup plan ready Sheldon. I suspect the Desert Rat may need a habitat similar to Siberia. Is there a "Northern" branch? (if you get my drift?) :brows: :brows:

[Sheldon Bowles]

Here are the facts that must be considered with reference to Kevin's application:

#1. T.A.H.O.P.O.P. is totally without standards of mediocrity much less excellence of either photographic skills, or character.

#2. Nevertheless, Kevin did show wanton disregard for poles by posting a few days ago a crack about people not keeping their pole photos --- I'm sure many members are still licking their wounds over this slight.

#3. Just as there is no Catholic like a converted Catholic (my Godson darn near took Holy Orders to please the woman he married --- and was a dyed in the wool Roman Church man even after the woman in question tossed him aside for a crack at a third husband, which is a story for a thread of it's own someday) it may well be that having seen the light, Brother Kevin may become one of our most ardent supporters.

#4. He hails from Orlando.

#5. He has made 3,291 posts to Pixel Shooter and has 949,998 points --- not one of which has he expended in a shameless attempt to bribe me with a ribbon, or a beer, to give his application speedy approval.

#6. With Eric's induction moved to Manitoba, we do have a space available at an Alberta Hutterite colony and a week with The Pig Man reserved.

#7. Kevin is a really nice guy.

#8. Point #7 is irrelevant.

#9. Rumor has it he can get people discounts on Disneyworld admissions.

#10. His eagle picture is really very nice --- and a far, far better eagle picture than I have ever taken, so the rub Sheldon's nose in it factor is there.

#11. On the History channel last evening a program called The Executioners, said that in England, in the latter years of hanging, from the time the condemned left their cell to walk next door to the gallows room, until they were dead, was down to less than 20 seconds.

#12. Point #11 is irrelevant --- except it does show that A) I don't waste all my time here in the evenings on Pixel Shooter, B) That I do sometimes watch some class history programs, it's not all Ugly Betty and Boston Legal, C) I can and do remember useful snippets of information.

In the end, the only two points that matter are #1 --- we take anybody --- and #2 ---- his pole picture is very nice indeed.

Accordingly, by the power vested in me (nasty suggestions of a defrocking from Eric notwithstanding) I hereby admit Kevin of Orlando as the 21st member of The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers.

A cap, befitting the head of a 3,291 post poster, is (or will be) on it's way along with the winter 2007 May Kay catalog from which Kevin may pick a gift of his own choosing. Hint: the Rose Marie blush is VERY nice.

Should the week at the Alberta Hutterite colony prove impossible for Kevin to make, a closer to home, skinny dip swim across Alligator Pond (think Walden Pond with snapping turtles) is the alternate induction event. Anyone thinking of covering this swim photographically may want to consider the new Canon 1D Mk111 with it's superior fast focusing and tracking ability. At the annual swim last year those that made it across we like a blurr except to the most accomlished race car photographers.

Kevin, it is good to count you as one of us. There are only us and them, and now you are us.

Note: Any thems who want to be us are welcome to apply.

[Sheldon Bowles]

I love it! Have a backup plan ready Sheldon. I suspect the Desert Rat may need a habitat similar to Siberia. Is there a "Northern" branch? (if you get my drift?) :brows: :brows:

Oh, I'm glad you're one of us.

I think you and I could be real friends with a mind like yours.

Heh, heh, heh.

But, let's not forget, Eric is one of us too, and being in Los Angeles he may just know some of those rich and famous types and get us into a Hollywood party or two. :cheer:

[Sheldon Bowles]

[QUOTE=Gale;48835]The Regal Great Horned Owl watchith over you
QUOTE]

Excellent Gale, excellent.

A wonderful Great Horned and I love the way you've presented it.

I am amazed at the progess you've made under the mentoring of all 21 members of this fine group. From razor sharp eagles to this magnificent textured owl you are pushing the limits of artistic expression.

You are THE one ! ! !

:cheer: :cheer: :cheer:

[Gale]

:blushing: Thanks Sheldon
Tough shootin owls in the dark
If ya can't shoot em art em

[Harv]

Sheldon, you continue to crack me up and you always 'make my day'. God Bless.

[Sheldon Bowles]

:blushing: Thanks Sheldon
Tough shootin owls in the dark
If ya can't shoot em art em

Shrewd. Very shrewd.

Proud to call you a pole owl mate.

[Sheldon Bowles]

Sheldon, you continue to crack me up and you always 'make my day'. God Bless.

Harv, this is very kind of you --- I've just phoned my 93-year-old mother and said, "Mom, you know how you always wonder what worth I am to anyone??? Well, have I got good news for you. You see, there's this guy Harvey ....."

Want to know what's really funny? She wasn't impressed.

Yard by yard, life is hard.
Inch by inch, life's a cinch.

[Sheldon Bowles]

It is with considerable pleasure that I announce Mitchell and Delaney have been accepted as full members of The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers with all of the various rights and responsibilities that accompany this singular honor.

Their photos in the contest --- their winning photos ---- cannot be ignored. While short a pole, they are owls! And what fantastic owls they are. As the skill level of these two young photographers increases with time, work and experience, I've no doubt that they too will be able to capture an owl at rest atop a pole, rather than moving.

The induction will take place in early June at a McDonalds of their choosing in Edmonton. Ann will deliver "Address to The Pole Owl" by Robert Burns (that's Robert Burns of Fox Creek, not the Burns of Scotland) and I shall pay for a Big Mac and small fries for all in attendance.

Congratulations and welcome Delaney and Mitchell

[Ann]

I'll have to get working on this! Going to McDonalds is a treat for someone from Fox Creek!!! :biggrin:

[Sheldon Bowles]

Howcome? There are three in Fox Creek, aren't there? Did they close them! Why can't they just leave things as they are. Next thing you know the Keg will go. Bummer!

[Ann]

The only Keg in Fox Creek would be a Keg of Beer!

[andreasb]

Can I join in ?

This is Full Frame (BTW the real meaning of full frame is that it fills the frame, and hasn't been cropped)
http://www.pbase.com/andreasb/image/55275775/original.jpg

This is a cropped image
http://www.pbase.com/andreasb/image/55275776/original.jpg

This is an image
http://www.pbase.com/andreasb/image/57083708/original.jpg

This is a spitting-image
http://www.pbase.com/andreasb/image/72471913/original.jpg

This is a closer up image
http://www.pbase.com/andreasb/image/64229880/original.jpg

This is an anti-pole image (Grounded), actually if you check out the relfection in his eye you can see the pole!
http://www.pbase.com/andreasb/image/73922938/original.jpg

OK maybe now you can see the pole?
http://www.pbase.com/andreasb/image/75366746/original.jpg

[Rudi]

This is Full Frame (BTW the real meaning of full frame is that it fills the frame, and hasn't been cropped)

Only a Nikon shooter would say that... ;) :D

[Sheldon Bowles]

Andreas, Andreas, Andreas!

I know I made a thing about posting shots that made me look bad --- but let's face it, making me look bad is not a high hurdle. Several prior posters have pushed it, I know, and really rubbed my nose in it, but you ! ! !

As I squirm, looking at the first two pictures, half in awe, half in delight at how wonderful they are, and half in total jealous agony, you give us, as if the first two aren't enough, an owl on a pole. Then we get owls spitting fur balls and wind up with reflected a reflected pole in an owl's eye. Geeeeesh!

I grovel on my knees in front of you. I weep for the chance to carry your lens cloth. I bask in the glow of your glory. Double Geeeeesh!

It is with unaccustomed humility that I grant you membership in The Ancient And Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers. You may wear the red robes to convocation, you may enter branches of the Alberta Treasury Bank and withdraw whatever cash they'll give you, you may don the feathered head dress and run through Maple Bay going, "Whoo, whoo, whoo," at your pleasure. As you can see, this is an order with significant rights and privileges not enjoyed by other Pixel Shooters.

Your induction shall be held at NCC's Cowichan Garry Oak Preserve as soon as the rain clears. That will be what? August?

Welcome Andreas!

Alright, enough of this hero worship Sheldon. Get a grip. You are THE man. Repeat it. Come on at least try to say it.

Well, .... will you come out from under the bed and give the baby back his blanket and soother? If I make you a nice rum and coke? Double rum?

There's a good boy ... out you come. You don't need to look at those owl pictures any more.

Sheldon? Sheldon? Don't go back under ..... too late.

[Sheldon Bowles]

The snowy owl season is coming to an end here. It is 11 p.m. here and the temperature has climbed this evening to zero "C" or 32 "F" I suspect any snowies left will head north tomorrow at first light in search of someplace cooler. Pity. I'll miss them.

Last Sunday I was out on a route that would normally result in five or six snowy owl sightings but only one was spotted. Thankfully, it was on a pole. As I drove past --- you gotta keep the truck moving or they'll come swooping right down on you and try to rip the top right off the cab to get at you --- Penny reached over, took the wheel, and as she kept the truck going straight I bravely (floolishly?) lowered my window enough to stick the lens our and grap one last-of-the-season pole owl shot. As you can see this ghostly beast was looking right at me thinking, "Lunch!"

And so, to wallow further in my significant inadequacies, (thanks Andreas for once again stoking the fires of my burning and well deserved inferiority complex) I present this pole owl:

http://www.pbase.com/nightpilot/image/75383464.jpg

And, what a ferocious creature he is. scared;

[krisalys]

Hi Sheldon:

My Mommy told us about the pictures you need. Me and my sister and my Mommy found this and hope we can join, too.

http://www.pbase.com/image/75401767.jpg

[Sheldon Bowles]

Hi Sheldon:

My Mommy told us about the pictures you need. Me and my sister and my Mommy found this and hope we can join, too.

http://www.pbase.com/image/75401767.jpg

Krisalys, you're Lisa's daughter? She is so wonderful ! ! !

Lisa didn't manage an actual owl, but you have!

This owl is what I call a Mao owl.

Regardless, this be an owl, and this be a pole, and that's more than is needed to join.

And, you've succeeded in besting me, that's for sure. Your owl is properly exposed, nicely centered in the picture (only the greatest photographers can ignore the rule of thirds and get away with it the way you have) and it's tack sharp! I love the glint you managed to catch in the owl's eye.

Your profile doesn't tell me where you live, and so it's hard to decide which venue would be best for the induction ceremony. However, Lisa's induction, as I recall, is slated for Keith's backyard in a few months. Perhaps we can do you, and your sister, at the same time?

I'm sure your mother will have told you what a fine, exclusive, wonderful group of modest photographers we all and I congratulate you on skipping so easily over all the the hurdles and becoming a member. This is a particularly significant achievement for someone on their first post. Some have needed more than a thousand posts to Pixel Shooter to be accepted.

Please feel free to place T.A.H.O.P.O.P in your signature --- it will gain you instant recogniton and credibility in the most exclusive of circles.

Congratulations Krisalys

[Lisa]

lmao; lmao; lmao;

Okay, Sheldon, what would make you think these two little girls belonged to me???:p

Yes, they are mine and I had a different idea than the one we eventually came up with...they thought it was rather "gross". ;)

Thank you kindly for pointing out that I was unable to find ANY owl on my own not to mention the fact that it has taken me over 1,000 posts to get this far.

You are a lot of fun......:biglaugh: :biglaugh:

The girls will be thrilled!

[Sheldon Bowles]

lmao; lmao; lmao;

Okay, Sheldon, what would make you think these two little girls belonged to me???:p

The girls will be thrilled!


Why would I think they belonged to you? You're mentoring is all over that photo --- it screams "Lisa's family,' to any knowledgeable conniosseur of 21st century photography. That and it was linked to your pbase account.

Glad to have the girls with us. That brings us to four in the youth division.

Gung ho friend,

[Lisa]

Why would I think they belonged to you? You're mentoring is all over that photo --- it screams "Lisa's family,' to any knowledgeable conniosseur of 21st century photography. That and it was linked to your pbase account.

Glad to have the girls with us. That brings us to four in the youth division.

Gung ho friend,

Please, I hope it doesn't scream "Lisa's Family" and as for my mentoring....my poor kids are really done for ;)

Darn about the pbase account....I thought I made it a little harder to figure out than that!

All they have is little P & S's but the 10 year old is learning how to use my trusty old D70....

You are FAR too clever :coo3l:

[andreasb]

I' truly honored and the Gary Oaks are too, should the rain ever stop, they are just down the hill from where I live, there is a rumoured Barn Owl Pair in one of the barns on the reserve. Btw the GHO was taken in my neighbor's across the streets backyard (!) So we (as in the Royal we) go all over the place and come to the conclusion that there s no place quite like Home!!!

Andreas, Andreas, Andreas!

I know I made a thing about posting shots that made me look bad --- but let's face it, making me look bad is not a high hurdle. Several prior posters have pushed it, I know, and really rubbed my nose in it, but you ! ! !

As I squirm, looking at the first two pictures, half in awe, half in delight at how wonderful they are, and half in total jealous agony, you give us, as if the first two aren't enough, an owl on a pole. Then we get owls spitting fur balls and wind up with reflected a reflected pole in an owl's eye. Geeeeesh!

I grovel on my knees in front of you. I weep for the chance to carry your lens cloth. I bask in the glow of your glory. Double Geeeeesh!

It is with unaccustomed humility that I grant you membership in The Ancient And Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers. You may wear the red robes to convocation, you may enter branches of the Alberta Treasury Bank and withdraw whatever cash they'll give you, you may don the feathered head dress and run through Maple Bay going, "Whoo, whoo, whoo," at your pleasure. As you can see, this is an order with significant rights and privileges not enjoyed by other Pixel Shooters.

Your induction shall be held at NCC's Cowichan Garry Oak Preserve as soon as the rain clears. That will be what? August?

Welcome Andreas!

Alright, enough of this hero worship Sheldon. Get a grip. You are THE man. Repeat it. Come on at least try to say it.

Well, .... will you come out from under the bed and give the baby back his blanket and soother? If I make you a nice rum and coke? Double rum?

There's a good boy ... out you come. You don't need to look at those owl pictures any more.

Sheldon? Sheldon? Don't go back under ..... too late.

[Sheldon Bowles]

Lisa, when I first saw this post from your daughter I figured it had to be Mao giving me a yank again! But I couldn't figure out how he got an account from last November? So, I started to try to figure out what was going on. Probably took me an hour to figure out it likely was your family. You put me to work, that's for sure.

[Sheldon Bowles]

Andreas, I know just where you live. I was on the board of the Nature Conservancy of Canada when we took on this property and I was there for the 'opening.' What a fabulous area.

As you know, less than 5 percent of the Garry Oak ecosystem still exists and this site is a gem. I've always wanted to go back to see it again, and now with you there I've got double incentive to visit.

[andreasb]

Sounds good I will take good care of you!

Andreas, I know just where you live. I was on the board of the Nature Conservancy of Canada when we took on this property and I was there for the 'opening.' What a fabulous area.

As you know, less than 5 percent of the Garry Oak ecosystem still exists and this site is a gem. I've always wanted to go back to see it again, and now with you there I've got double incentive to visit.

[Sheldon Bowles]

Notice re: Desert Rat's induction ceremony.

There has been some outburst from otherwise well respected and valued members that Eric (aka Dreset Rat) should not be subjected to a Manitoba Hutterite Colony initiation ritual.

Accordingly, and with some considerable misgiving and reluctance, the ceremony venue has been again rescheduled. We shall now all be going to Eric's hometown of Los Angeles for a beach event --- volleyball, beer, hot dogs and a horseshoe pitch for the young at heart.

This alteration of plans has nothing, I repeat NOTHING, to do with the fact it is mid-March and I have two feet of snow in my front yard and am fed up with winter. This is not a, "next year I'm going to the beaches of California," thing. Not at all. It is simply a response to others and a mark of respect for Eric's submission to T.A.H.O.P.O.P. That's all. Really.

[Peter]

Now we deal with Peter, our Nightowl.

You sir are #18, and in this we are unanimous!

You have actually submitted an owl --- a beautiful snowy --- on top of a post! And no snow, and you are at eye level. Amazing.

Even without the lubrication of a post funeral reception I would tell you it is an honor to have your fine self part of this over the top, ego driven group of over achievers led by a definite also ran. But there is no shame in being an also ran to our now 18 members!

And so, in the fullness of time, and with several rather sufficient rum and diet cokes under my belt, I lightly touch a 600mm lens on each of your shoulders and bid you rise to take your rightful place amongst the pantheon of your peers who proudly proclaim themselves members of The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers. This society of overachievers is not some rag tag lot as may be found on other internet photo groups. Oh no! T.A.H.O.P.O.P. membership is strictly limited to those who apply, although consideration is being given to granting associate status to some who are either too proud, or too modest, to actually ask.

Your official induction, Peter, shall be by total immersion in the river Ganges at a time and place of your choosing --- first class airfare, and several nights at the Ritz Carlton for your fellow members being all that is asked of you.

We are delighted to have you Peter --- go get those pole shots!
Oh great and honorable T.A.H.O.P.O.P. founder, I thank you for your gracious acceptance. However, I also have some thoughts as to my induction ceremony. Though I was pleased not to have to deal with the porkers on the Hutterite settlements, the Ganges immerson is a bit far. How about the North Saskatchewan River after sharing some rums at Keiths back yard bar-b-que ? Although it is not infected with alligators, there have been reports ofa huge man-eating northern pike, which could make it an exciting swim.:biggrin:

[Sheldon Bowles]

I expect to be in Edmonton around June 6 for a day or two.

Perhaps we could meet at a Swiss Chalet (quarter white, baked potato -- the ultimate gourmet meal) and discuss this whole thing. Frankly I don't give a hoot --- get it, a "hoot" ?? Pole owl ... hoot? oh, forget it --- where you have your induction, but I'd love to see India before I die, I'll be 65 in April, holding you ransom for a ticket to Bombay, or Mumbai as it's now known, seems like my best hope.

As for the North Saskatchewan, last time I looked at it I thought that it was much like our Red River here in Winnipeg --- might be safer to take our chances in the Ganges.

So, let's do Swiss Chalet. I'll buy. Never let it be said I'm not the last of the big time spenders!

[Ann]

I expect to be in Edmonton around June 6 for a day or two.

Perhaps we could meet at a Swiss Chalet (quarter white, baked potato -- the ultimate gourmet meal)
So, let's do Swiss Chalet. I'll buy. Never let it be said I'm not the last of the big time spenders!


Geez, I was willing to settle for Macdonalds!!!!

[Jeff JTPhoto]

WE HAVE LIFT OFF and off little friend to the hydro pole.........

http://jtphoto.ca/webimages/mar07/1678chickadee.jpg
1DmkII 70-200 2.8L IS @ 200mm f-8 @ 1/800 ISO 200

http://jtphoto.ca/webimages/mar07/1677chickadee.jpg
1DmkII 70-200 2.8L IS @ 200mm f-8 @ 1/500 ISO 200

[Sheldon Bowles]

Like the ulta-orthodox Jews who run photo stores in New York and are closed on Saturday your esteemed, venerated and oft maligned Lord High Pooh Bah, Sheldon, has taken St. Patrick's Day in seclusion with the admissions committee to deal with the application of Jeff --- otherwise known as BigRed450, heart throb of the teenage girls in South Gillies Ontario.

The decision as to admission was made instantly. Welcome Jeff!

The toasting of the green, Jeff, and all things Irish took longer.

While Jeff's offerings are neither owl, or pole, they are bird and base. And as Jeff notes, the first chickadee in take off mode is undoubtedly headed for a pole. Most importantly these shots make me look bad --- not a difficult challenge, I know, but nevertheless a requirement Jeff has fulfilled with exemplary perfection. My collection of chickadee shots isn't as good as my snowy owl work ---- and that's saying something.

Jeff I am delighted to welcome you into the ample bosom of The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers and proclaim you member ordinarie, extraordinaire and debonaire with all the rights and privileges thereto appertaining.

Might we invite members from the eastern townships of Thunder Bay to an induction ceremony for yourself at Upper Scotch Lake out Hwy #17 in August?

Good to have you with us, Jeff, and should you wish you may now join the elite few entitled to place T.A.H.O.P.O.P. in their signature line, on business cards, and Yellow Page ads. There seems to be some delay in the cap supply, but as soon as they are ready, be assured yours will be in the mail.

[Joe F.N.]

To: His Honour, Sir Sheldon Bowles Founder.

Dear Sir Sheldon.
Today I make formal application for membership in:T.A.H.O.P.O.P. The photograph I wish to submit may come under considerable scrutiny since the raptor, depicted, does not in fact sit on a pole. He is a handsome bird of the species Great Horned Owl who himself suffers humiliation in that he is a captive and not free to roam. As I have stated he does not sit on a pole but is perched on a man made object consisting of steel pipe and rope. This anomaly is sufficient to have the image sent to a committee of adjustments for approval. This is understood. Should this committee reject my application I will also understand but I will be saddened by it. Since it's inauguration I have had a desire to be a member of the elite group T.A.H.O.P.O.P. but felt that I was never quite worthy of receiving such distinction. This photograph is as close as I will ever get to a achieving a prerequisite image attachment for an application. I implore you to at least send the owl for adjudication.
I wait with great anticipation for your reply.
Humbly yours,
Joseph F. Noordman Esq.

http://joefn.smugmug.com/photos/138276073-O.jpg

[Sheldon Bowles]

Joseph F. Noordman Esq.
Oshawa, Ontario
Canada

My dear Sir:

It is with great pleasure that I write to inform you the committee of adjustments, waivers, chickadee training, and garage (single and two car) side yard zoning amendments, has met and by a vote of 16/0 has upheld the image you have submitted as being more than adequate to qualify you for immediate acceptance into The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers. May I be the first to offer my sincere congratulations on this singular honor.

T.A.H.O.P.O.P. has had several noticeable esteemed members of Pixel Shooters who, for some inexplicable reason have not seen fit, or neglected, to put their names forward for inclusion in the membership roles. Your name was one of the most glaring omissions. It is good that this tardy oversight on your part has now been remedied. The good people of Oshawa (132 at last count out of a population of 141,590 --- which is pretty good considering you're but 60 miles east of Toronto The Wicked) can rest easy this evening knowing that both Joe and bobbyb are card carrying members of T.A.H.O.P.O.P Not since Winfields Farm gave us Northern Dancer (the horse, not the lap one) has there been such cause for rejoicing in the streets of Oshawa.

You may have noticed that several prior admissions have been sent important articles of office and be eagerly awaiting your own hat, vest made from the skins of Lake Ontario zebra mussels, and magic decoder ring in cracker jack box. Unfortunately these packages have reduced the post office department’s drug sniffing dogs to spasms of catatonic apoplexy rendering them worthless for further drug use. T.A.H.O.P.O.P. shipments have been banned and negotiations are underway with the postal service to see if it would be acceptable if a system were devised to keep the zebra mussel skins wet and less pungent during transport. You will be notified when this is resolved.

In a related matter, please be assured we are taking seriously and trying to render what assistance we can in the matter of one Mao Ouyang and the full patch members of a certain Oshawa bikers club. Mr. Ouyang’s belief that wearing the magic decoder ring and the zebra mussel skin vest rendered him invisible when photographing certain business dealings of the aforementioned club is flawed. While he was, of course, invisible, he failed to cloak the actual camera in the zebra mussel skin wrap provided. Every effort is being made by both the RCMP and TAHOPOP to locate Mr. Ouyang and secure his release. A note left at the scene saying “Mao Ouyang is with Jimmy Hoffa now!” is an excellent clue and will be vigorously followed up by members Mitchell and Delaney at the end of the school year.

Now, your induction. As this will undoubtedly be THE event of Oshawa’s 2007 social calendar with invitations being eagerly sought by the social elite hoping for a chance to actually be introduced to you, we are searching for an appropriate venue with sufficient washroom facilities to handle the crowd. More on this later.

Joe, TAHOPOP has many fine members. None more welcome than yourself.

Please feel free to place your membership in your signature, if you wish. A notation on your 2007 tax return will go a long way to fending off an audit. We have friends in high places!

[Joe F.N.]

Dear Sir Sheldon

It is with great humility and gratitude that I accept membership in this most prestigious order known as T.A.H.O.P.O.P. It will be an honour attaching the title to my signature. Hopefully I will do nothing in the future, such as taking a photograph of any raptor in his/her natural environment, and posting it under the pretext that it has T.A.H.O.P.O.P. approval. Now that I have been accepted as a member I will assume the responsibility of overseeing Mr. Mao Ouyang's sometimes questionable practices in the field of photography. As Mr. R. Brown.s reputation as an enforcer is clearly documented I will seek his assistance also in fulfilling your wishes. Hopefully I will make the membership proud.
I have printed copies of my request and your response to that request, for my wife to read. From the violent shaking of her head from side to side I can see that she is favourably impressed.

Again, thank you and the membership for allowing me entry into this honourable club.

Sincerely,

Joseph F. Noordman Esq.

[Sheldon Bowles]

Now that you are part of this close knit order Joe, I feel it only fair to warn you that a wife exhibiting violent shaking of the head from side to side, does not suggest "favourably impressed" so much as it likely suggests her thinking, "total idiots, call the lawyer and get a Power of Attorney for Joseph fast, cut off contract with Mao, get Net Nanny to monitor his computer time, sell his cameras, find a scrapbooking group at the church for him to express his creative needs." Beware wives with violently shaking heads.

It is a comfort to hear that both you and R. Brown will try to keep the reins tight on Mao. I suspect this could quickly develop into full time work for both of you.

Good to have you with us Joe. You may assume that any photo you care to post is pre-approved by TAHOPOP --- raptor, or not.

Let the games begin ! ! ! !

[P.E.Wog]

This guy is sitting on a light pole. Will this count. ( no owls yet )
http://pewog.smugmug.com/photos/138685222-L.jpg

[Sheldon Bowles]

My dear Mr. Paul E. Wog.

No one in the illustrious history of The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers has ever been granted membership status after just 44 posts to the parent Pixel Shooters group.

Oh no! Lisa needed more than a thousand. On the other hand her two children were accepted with zero prior posts --- but never after 44.

However, the excellence of your picture speaks volumes in your favor. Others have been accepted showing far less merit. And you do seem to know Mao. Mao is like Ron, Joe and Harvey --- to know them may not be to love them, but you gotta at least like them. Keith, Gerald and Peter are a whole different ball of wax are as Rudi, Jeff, Bob, bobbyb --- a cast of characters you might want to avoid. As we speak Rudi is asleep in Australia apparently dreaming of some "she" who when she turns up will be worth the money. Make of it what you will. I kid you not, it's right there in the Shout box. However, it seems you know not these people and so we needn't take that into consideration. Desert Rat is yet another matter it would be best not to even touch on here. E.B., Charles, Ann and Art have their moments, while Kevin and Andreas are an open book.

But, I digress. Which, given my usual succinct tight prose is unlike me in the extreme, as I'm sure you know.

So, to the matter of your membership.

After due consideration, and a very nice rum and coke (diet, just a squeeze of lime, no ice) I am thrilled to inform you that by a vote of 16/0 you have been accepted as a member of The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers and are henceforth entitled to place TAHOPOP ( generally thought of as TAH - O - POP ) in your Pixel Shooter signature, to wear the vest of recycled Toronto Blue Jays' programs (symbolizing hope in the face of overwhemling odds) and the apron of Save Our CBC lawn posters (symbolizing Alberta's love of all things cultural east of Regina) to all ceremonial occasions sponsored by TAHOPOP. The cap may, or may not, be sent to you at a later date. Stay tuned.

It is fitting that new members be received into the Order at a proper induction ceremony. It seems the Senate Chamber in Ottawa is both an elegant venue, and is of little or no use to the sitting government, and we expect to be able to secure it in the near future for your induction. However, it seems there are several B.C. Senators who died at their desks just after the Christmas recess and their actual passing only discovered this week when Air Canada tried to deliver their new Super Elite cards. Once these chaps are dealt with --- not an easy matter as they were Tory Senators and there are those who say they're just sleeping --- we'll find a date.

In the meantime be assured you are most welcome here and should you be entering the U.S. there is no need to stop at customs --- just breeze through and tell them you're TAH - O - POP. If there's a problem, check with Mao, he's the one who set this up for us.

Good to have you with us Paul ! ! !

And, congratulations.

[P.E.Wog]

My dear Mr. Paul E. Wog.

No one in the illustrious history of The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers has ever been granted membership status after just 44 posts to the parent Pixel Shooters group.

Oh no! Lisa needed more than a thousand. On the other hand her two children were accepted with zero prior posts --- but never after 44.

However, the excellence of your picture speaks volumes in your favor. Others have been accepted showing far less merit. And you do seem to know Mao. Mao is like Ron, Joe and Harvey --- to know them may not be to love them, but you gotta at least like them. Keith, Gerald and Peter are a whole different ball of wax are as Rudi, Jeff, Bob, bobbyb --- a cast of characters you might want to avoid. As we speak Rudi is asleep in Australia apparently dreaming of some "she" who when she turns up will be worth the money. Make of it what you will. I kid you not, it's right there in the Shout box. However, it seems you know not these people and so we needn't take that into consideration. Desert Rat is yet another matter it would be best not to even touch on here. E.B., Charles, Ann and Art have their moments, while Kevin and Andreas are an open book.

But, I digress. Which, given my usual succinct tight prose is unlike me in the extreme, as I'm sure you know.

So, to the matter of your membership.

After due consideration, and a very nice rum and coke (diet, just a squeeze of lime, no ice) I am thrilled to inform you that by a vote of 16/0 you have been accepted as a member of The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers and are henceforth entitled to place TAHOPOP ( generally thought of as TAH - O - POP ) in your Pixel Shooter signature, to wear the vest of recycled Toronto Blue Jays' programs (symbolizing hope in the face of overwhemling odds) and the apron of Save Our CBC lawn posters (symbolizing Alberta's love of all things cultural east of Regina) to all ceremonial occasions sponsored by TAHOPOP. The cap may, or may not, be sent to you at a later date. Stay tuned.

It is fitting that new members be received into the Order at a proper induction ceremony. It seems the Senate Chamber in Ottawa is both an elegant venue, and is of little or no use to the sitting government, and we expect to be able to secure it in the near future for your induction. However, it seems there are several B.C. Senators who died at their desks just after the Christmas recess and their actual passing only discovered this week when Air Canada tried to deliver their new Super Elite cards. Once these chaps are dealt with --- not an easy matter as they were Tory Senators and there are those who say they're just sleeping --- we'll find a date.

In the meantime be assured you are most welcome here and should you be entering the U.S. there is no need to stop at customs --- just breeze through and tell them you're TAH - O - POP. If there's a problem, check with Mao, he's the one who set this up for us.

Good to have you with us Paul ! ! !

And, congratulations.

Dear Sir Sheldon,
I must humbly thank you and fellow memember of the T.A.H.O.P.O.P. for allowing me to join your very prestigious club. I know the content of my picture was questionable. Never in my wildest dreams did I figure I would ever rate a consideration in to your honored and hallowed club.

I know you mentioned about avoiding some people. I'm not sure but they might be the ones dragging me out to these wild and dangerous places. With big white birds charging at you or trying to lose me in the woods, I not sure if I'll ever last in my penance to learn this amazing art.

Mao did say something about getting in to the US but didn't say anything about getting out again. I have my suspicions that Mao might be trying to lose me in a bigger set of woods. Bobbyb said I would have no problem but he is one of the ones on your avoidance list so I do not think I will believe him.

As to the induction ceremony if it has to be in a goverment building so be it. For the honor of joining your prestigious club we are even willing to be seen in such a place. I will wait with baited breath for your invitation to the induction ceremony.

Your ever so humble servant.
Mr. Paul E. Wog

[Sheldon Bowles]

bobbyb has, this morning, sent along a very nice bottle of Newfoundland Screech. His inclusion on the 'might want to avoid' list was obviously a grievous error. Others may yet redeem themselves.

[Rob]

Please Sir, will you let me in. I promise that I sought Owls all day & found Zero, Nil, None & still have not got one.:arghh: I did, however find these little guys! Do they qualify :daydreaming:

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/208/448196981_fae2864f1c_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/224/448193664_f5a7c5347b.jpg

[Sheldon Bowles]

Qualify! My goodness yes. The second photo, like many Australian offerings, is a delightful blend of sun ripened pole, with hints of wire, plastic and pleasing feather tones. Droppings burst forth mid cross bar and surprise the viewer. The first photo is bolder with just a hint of the possibility of droppings but the pole is full bodied and bold. This photo while viewable now will age well and discerning viewers may wish to hit the save button and keep for several years when pixel degradation will bring richer blues already evident in the second photo.

The committee has designated these submissions as pole-in-need-of-owl shots and by a vote of 16 to zero has approved Smithy9990, aka Rob, for inclusion in the membership roles of The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers with all rights and privileges thereto appertaining.

These privileges include, but are not limited to, the right to place notification of your designation in your Pixel Shooters signature, either in full form, or simply as TAHOPOP. One of the most useful boons for you, Rob, is the 10 percent discount on the kangaroo stew special at the Four Seasons Ayers Rock Spa and horse shampoo emporium in Alice Springs. There is also no need to any longer tip waiters in France. Simply scribble TAHOPOP on the bill, or, if ten percent has already been added, confidently strike it out and mark TAHOPOP in big bold letters on the tab. You'll want your camera handy to record the look of delight on the waiter's face!

Let pole owl motto #7: Illigitimus, plurus, subnauseous papus supremo polet erectus genus aegolius forever ring in your ears.

We now come to the exciting prospect of your initiation ceremony --- a TAHOPOP ceremony Shakespeare would say is more honored in its breech than its observance. The committee feels this is a two rum and coke problem and will (may?) be rendering it's decision as to the location in the very near future.

In the meantime be assured, Rob, that TAHOPOP is pleased and proud to have someone of your polecentric abilities --- owl challenged as you may be --- included in the membership roles. Congratulations!

[paul weston]

This pole thing cracks me up,seems like i better try and get a shot myself.

paul.

[Cal]

consider my humble submission....

http://www.funshots.smugmug.com/photos/141005213-L.jpg

[Rob]

Thankyou my friend, Can't wait to edit my signature & what's more I'm going to the Alice in October so will give it a try. Will embarras my wife by getting her to photograph the waiter when I amend the Bill. Sensational idea:biglaugh:

[Ellen]

What about mine ? Is that any good?

http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y21/ellenmac/_MG_5698.jpg

[chezem]

Well Sheldon. I've been waiting weeks for this bird to come and land on this light pole again so that I could get a bit closer but alas it has not come to pass. So here is my humble offering along with all the crap that's left on the pole. I just hope that it is good enough. It's probably on a par with your owl. :cheer:

http://www.pbase.com/image/76777220/original.jpg

[Rudi]

Oh sure! NOW everybody's got them! :D

http://rudiphoto.zenfolio.com/img/p991473765.jpg

[Sheldon Bowles]

Greetings all worthy, and unworthy, applicants.

I am heading out to our farm for the weekend, which is saddly and blessedly beyond internet. I shall, however, convene the committee and give most careful consideration to all the above messages.

And, Cheryl, your photo offering only shows up as a little red "X" in a box. Not that this is necessarily an impediment to being granted TAHOPOP accreditation --- I just wanted to mention it in passing.

For those of you who believe in the Christian faith, I wish you a blessed Easter. For those that don't, have a great redeeming day anyways. And for those of you on the fence, get to chuch, mosque, synagogue, or meeting house ---- look on it as insurance.

[chezem]

Ah Sheldon,

The photo is on PBase. But thats another story. I don't know why some can see it and others can't. You can right click and go 'show picture' or 'refresh' or if all else fails use this link. http://i.pbase.com/o6/15/736615/1/76777220.WMhHOR82.MG1346xx.jpg

[Rudi]

Yes, PBase is really going nowhere fast these days.;( I can see it at the moment, Cheryl, but yesterday it didn't want to show up on one occasion when I checked this thread. As you said, it's out of your hands, but I am starting to wonder how many PBase customers will take their business elsewhere in the near future... it's a shame - they are the original photo storage site, and their ideas have been copied by others, they just let it all slide somehow.

[Sheldon Bowles]

Cal, Ellen, Cheryl ...

Cal, your eagle submission is about as humble as George Bush (or myself, when you come right down to it.) This is one wonderful eagle! It certainly puts my pole owls to shame --- which, frankly, in and of itself, is not necessarily the highest compliment your eagle deserves.

I am delighted to tell you that on a recount in Florida you have been admitted by a vote of 16 to 0 to The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers.

Ellen: You have placed feather, beak and two feet so large they even put my wife's wide foot to shame, atop a fine pole. (Penny, by the way wouldn't mind that remark. She's quite pleased with her wide feet except when it comes to shoe buying time.) After several rum and coke the commitee decided that this is the single finest seagull photo ever posted to Pixel Shooters!

The committee, with several abstentions --- occassioned, interestingly enough by failure to abstain in the rum and coke department --- has unanimously elected you to The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers. Congratulations!

Cheryl: The committee has viewed your offering with various degrees of horror, shock, amusement and downright derision. This may be the mangiest spotted turtle dove ever posted on an internet site. And, to boot, it's presented on a pipe! A crappy pipe! This photo is enough to make even the most ardent animal rights activist shout, 'shoot that bird! Put it out of its misery.' However, that said, the committee did note that the beast was feathered, and while the pole was lying sideways, rather than upright, after several rum and cokes they were in no position to protest the inability of anything, or anyone, to remain upright. And, as awful as this poor spotted turtle dove may be, it is technically, artistically, and in every other way a much better photo of feather on stick than I have managed.

Accordingly, after fortification with "just a small one this time --- Gawd woman, don't drown the rum with that coke. You'd best add a dollop of Appleton's Jamaican Dark rum to give it body," the committee has voted 20 to 0 (16 members, but several voted twice, thinking the vote was for another round) to admit you to The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers. I, for one, am delighted to have you with us, for if you're not for us, you're against us, and given what you've done to this poor spotted turtle dove, I'm all for having you with us!

Cal, Ellen, Cheryl you may all now take the life altering step of placing The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers, or simply, TAHOPOP in your Pixel Shooter signatures. Before declining to tip in French restaurants it might be best to wait to see how it works out for Rob. However, your annual dues are fully tax deductible.

In recognition of Cheryl's unique offering initiations for all of you will be held at the Australian National Spotted Turtle Dove Recovery Center in Glen Alpine, New South Wales as soon as we know if her Spotted Turtle Dove recovers. (Have any of you ANY idea how difficult it is to have written this whole thing and not once, NOT ONCE, referred to STD ???? Talk about restraint! )

Your caps, cloaks, magic mittens, and Pole Identification Guide, will be in the mail shortly.

Congratulations!

Glad to have each of you as a member.

[Sheldon Bowles]

Cheryl ! ! !

The committee may owe you a huge apology!

I have had a message from one of Pixel Shooters most esteemed members to say that your Spotted Turtle Dove is a beautiful example of this fine bird, whereas Rudi's is an obese, puffed up bird which is so ill its feathers are lying flat! Worse, the poor thing can't even manage to stand on a pipe (apparently the preferred perch) and must instead alight on a big flat blob of a base for support.

A formal request to the Prime Minister of Australia to call a Royal Commission to deal with this issue has been sent.

In the meantime please know the committee is so upset that they may have maligned your fine photograph without cause that serious consideration is being given to breaking the "no alcohol before two in the afternoon" rule.

[Igor]

My submissions :)

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h90/nikkorer/bird-owl-G2F85020-af-300mm-f4-kenko.jpg

http://i62.photobucket.com/albums/h90/nikkorer/bird-shrike-D2X_7131-RS-af-300mm-1.jpg

[Dave Stiles]

When I saw this reply in another thread I just had to try and qualify as a member of the Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers.

>Igor, the pole is optional. Heck, the owl is optional.<

Thus I present my submission for evaluation. It is not an owl, and perhaps it would be a stretch to call the standing snag it is perched in a pole, but heck, it could have been a pole had it grown up elsewhere ... and the eagle has a beak, kinda similar to an owls. Both species have feathers and hunt for food.

The image was shot while on my first winter trip to Yellowstone. During the trip I took the Sno-coach ride from Mammoth to Old Faithful. On the way we came across this eagle off in the distance, somewhere around 1/8 of a mile or so off the roadway along the old stagecoach road near Old Faithful. It just happened that all five of us in the coach were photographers, so the driver was very cooperative in stopping when we asked her to if we saw something that needed to be photographed.

The outside temperature was a balmy five degrees fahrenheit, and I assume that the wings were spread to act like a solar panel, picking up the sunlight and warming the blood via the vessels in the wing.

http://naturefoto.org/data/524/medium/BaldEagle015_012605E.jpg

[Sheldon Bowles]

Yee gads and little fishes.

Not since the dreaded Keith, Prince Peter and Gerald the Great tread the halls of Pixel Shooter castle have such fine owls been spotted.

The committee has called an emergency meeting to fast track Igor for membership. Unfortunately, it is 12:39 p.m. in Winnipeg and lunch calls!

The admissions committee stands adjourned until sufficiently suffoncified.

[Sheldon Bowles]

Yikes!

Now we have a fantastic offering from Dave!

This shall be a two cheeseburger lunch in celebration.

The admissions committee shall resume in the fullness of time to consider Igor and Dave.

Does life get any better than this?

[paul weston]

It seems as though the rather lofty goal of trying to get a shot of a owl on a pole has been reduced to taking a picture of something that resembles a pole with something on top that at least has a pulse,SO. Here is my submission to gain entry into the pole owl club. Notice that the subject in question is not sitting on A pole but on several poles at the same time, thats worthy of special consideration IMHO. please try to fast track my submission into the pole owl thingy as iam leaving for kenora in a couple of weeks.

Thankyou MR grand poobaa for considering my submission:brows:

paul weston.http://www.pbase.com/photozlink/image/76910744.jpg

[Rudi]

There WAS a bird sitting on that stool just a moment ago, wasn't there, Paul? :D

[viewfinder]

Neither an Owl,
Nor a Pole,
But here Goes...

Lorikeet Swimsuit (http://pixelightbox.com/v/viewfinder/feathers/lorikeet/DSC_004221.pixel)
http://pixelightbox.com/d/607-4/DSC_004221.pixel (http://pixelightbox.com/v/viewfinder/feathers/lorikeet/DSC_004221.pixel)

BTW, it's a Hills Hoist (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hills_Hoist)...

Regards,
Jonathan

[Rudi]

:clap_1: :clap_1: :clap_1: Well done, Jonathan! This is certainly taking this thread to new.... heights? :D

[Ted Busby]

I hope I can qualify....:cute:

One real Pole-Owl & A Harrier...:unsure:

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c23/busbyea/Snowy-Owl-02-2.jpg

http://i24.photobucket.com/albums/c23/busbyea/Northern-Harrier-01a.jpg

[Sheldon Bowles]

When we adjourned for lunch yesterday, the committee had intended to grab a quick sandwich and coffee and get right back to the important work of TAHOPOP decision making. Well, one member wanted a beer, which led to two, which led to playing the slots, which led to being there when some of the afternoon regulars came in, which led to the need to be polite and have a quick one with them, which led to it being too late to go back to work anyways, which led to needing to explain to wives why homecoming was at eight and not six when dinner was ready, which led to words, laptops being ejected out the backdoor with a sleeping bag, ..... you know, same old, same old, hot tongue and cold shoulder for dinner.

Today the commitee has solved the lunch issue by ordering in: Tim's bacon cheese club on a whole wheat wrap. Very trendy. Very chic. Inexpensive.

And so we sit in judgement on five, yes five!, applications for admission to this illustrious and venerable organization which was established by Micelangelo Buonarroti in 1510 in the midst of his work on the Sistine Chapel ceiling when he placed an owl on a pole in the Creation of Adam scene --- a fact which only became apparent to modern day viewers following the restoration of 1980. Rumor in Rome has long held that this was actually an artistic response to Leonardo da Vinci's Owl on Pole sculpture which is among three long lost works of the master.

First we have Igor, the Polish prince of photography. The master of the moment. Lover of light. Like the Energizer Bunny, once this man starts to post TAHOPOP pictures he's off to the races. And what a race it is. He has humbled Sheldon many times over. He has owled and owled and owled and as if this isn't enough, he's added a L.B.J. (little brown job) to cinch the deal.

Igor, I am pleased to tell you the committee, simply by table thumping, no vote, has approved you as a member of The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers.

Dave: What an eagle! The committee has labled this shot; Eagle Yearning To Be An Owl. And you have a stick/tree/pole. What more could we ask for? There even appears to be snow on the branches, which along with the white head is eerily reminiscent of snowy owls. Bravo!

With further table thumping you sir have been admitted to The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers. It's good to have you one of us, and NOT one of them.

Paul: To anyone less astute than the committee, less creative, less magnanimous your offering of a white square reading, "Missing Image File," would present a challenge. Not TAHOPOP committee though! We instantly recognized that this was the ultimate creative pole owl shot --- leaving the viewer open to creating in his/her imagination a mind image of the perfect owl on pole. Fantastic!

To the sound of table thumping you have been admitted to The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers. Congratulations!

Jonathan: Swimsuits, Lorikeet, clothes line ???? I admit the committee was puzzled for some hours as we tried to grapple with the symbolism, metaphor and mystery of your offering. Finally we undersood. The clothes line, like telephone wire, is found in nature strung from pole to pole. The bathing suit, obviously worn, wet and hung out to dry, speaks of beauty not there. The absent other. The owl. And then in a playful poke at pretension, you give us the brightly colored bird as if to say, "Enough! Life may be mendacious syllogism of Homeric proportions, but .....," well, no need to explain. Once you see the owl within the final matroshka it is clear.

The committee insisted on a recorded vote so each might secure their place in history by linking their names with yours. And so, by a vote of 16 to 0, you are now a member of The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers. May all your lorikeets be owls!

Finally Ted: What can we say except we salute you! While Jonathan elected to advance his case with subtlety and Paul by indirection you sir whack the committee with fish full blown across the chops. Not since Monty Pyton did the fish dance by the canal has such a direct approach been taken, or taken so successfully. Congratulations! The first shot is not only owl on pole, it is an owl caroling, via karaoke, "My Way," featuring the Frank Sanatra arrangement. The love of owls for karaoke began, according to naturalists in the know, in Japan in the 1980s and is now a favorite party game of owls around the world. Rarely is this captured by a photographer. Eat your hearts out, Keith, Peter, Gerald, etc. etc. etc. The Harrier on its own would qualify you. As it is, it is but icing on the cake.

With Tim Horton's turkey bacon club finished members were able to again vote and by 16 to 0 you have been admitted to The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers. Well done!

Each of you may now alter your Pixel Shooter signature to include TAHOPOP in whatever form best suits you. This will alert "them" ("them" not being "us") that you have passed the rigorous investigation by the committee of every aspect of your life and are therefore a person of substance. (As in worthy, not abuse.) There are endless perks available to members, many of which are listed earlier in this thread. Of particular interest at this time of year is the invitation to Queen Elizabeth 2 for dinner for only $4,199 a person --- this being the Cunard Queen, not the London one, and applies to the May 2nd sailing only. Your hats, mugs, automobile gun racks, health card and oil change filter will be in the mail to you shortly.

As for induction, it's looking as if a mass induction in Alberta, with drinks at Ann's, the dinner at Keith's and desert at Peters may work best for all concerned. More on this later. The committee felt strongly that Desert Rat should be part of this and a collection is being taken to hire a private jet to bring him up. I'd gladly send my jet, but it's in for a new cabin interior and an upgrade to avionics.

Igor, Dave, Paul, Jonathan, and Ted I am thrilled to count you each as one of us. May all your poles be owled.

[Igor]

Igor, I am pleased to tell you the committee, simply by table thumping, no vote, has approved you as a member of The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers.


Honoured, thrilled and flattered I am :notworthy:
Thank you! :notworthy: :notworthy: :notworthy:
:clap:

[viewfinder]

Swimsuits, Lorikeet, clothes line ????
Actually - Swimsuit, Lorikeet, clothes line and budgie smuggler... One more trivia for you to solve ;)

Thank you Sheldon and the illustrious committee, I am truly humbled and honoured to be part of the Order - so long as I don't have to shave my head and practice the AAA - Ancient Art of Abstinence...

Regards,
Jonathan

[Ted Busby]

WOW! What a Thrill, totally blew me away, and I'm finding it very hard to choke back the tears of joy.

idhit;

I hope I can live up to the committees standards & expectations :unsure:

[Sheldon Bowles]

Honoured, thrilled and flattered I am :notworthy:
Thank you! :notworthy: :notworthy: :notworthy:
:clap:

It is TAHOPOP that is honoured by your presence!

[Sheldon Bowles]

Actually - Swimsuit, Lorikeet, clothes line and budgie smuggler... One more trivia for you to solve ;)

Thank you Sheldon and the illustrious committee, I am truly humbled and honoured to be part of the Order - so long as I don't have to shave my head and practice the AAA - Ancient Art of Abstinence...

Regards,
Jonathan

Budgie smuggler is beyond the scope of TAHOPOP.

Of course you are truly humbled and honoured. Anyone would be. This is such an exclusive group.

AAA is not practiced among TAHOPOP and indeed is frowned upon. Matter of fact, when any AAA is spotted near-by TAHOPOP members rush to surround it and frown. This has proved to be very effective.

[Sheldon Bowles]

WOW! What a Thrill, totally blew me away, and I'm finding it very hard to choke back the tears of joy.

idhit;

I hope I can live up to the committees standards & expectations :unsure:

Yes, Ted, the realization that now you too are a member of TAHOPOP is a life altering experience and even the most hardened often shed a tear of joy.

Buck up and stiff upper lip and all that.

As for expectations, I think I can safely say I am VERY familiar with the committee's expectations and standards and that you need not fear for being able to meet the minimum requirement.

[Dave Stiles]

Dave: What an eagle! The committee has labled this shot; Eagle Yearning To Be An Owl. And you have a stick/tree/pole. What more could we ask for? There even appears to be snow on the branches, which along with the white head is eerily reminiscent of snowy owls. Bravo!

Thank you kind sir. I have proudly attached the TAHOPOP 'badge of honor' to my signature block. I hope I can live up to the committees standards & expectations, and pray to the powers that be that they allow me to one day actually capture for all of posterity, an actual owl on a pole, and not just an image taken from far away of an Eagle Yearning To Be An Owl.

[chezem]

Cheryl: The committee has viewed your offering with various degrees of horror, shock, amusement and downright derision. This may be the mangiest spotted turtle dove ever posted on an internet site. And, to boot, it's presented on a pipe! A crappy pipe! This photo is enough to make even the most ardent animal rights activist shout, 'shoot that bird! Put it out of its misery.' However, that said, the committee did note that the beast was feathered, and while the pole was lying sideways, rather than upright, after several rum and cokes they were in no position to protest the inability of anything, or anyone, to remain upright. And, as awful as this poor spotted turtle dove may be, it is technically, artistically, and in every other way a much better photo of feather on stick than I have managed.

Accordingly, after fortification with "just a small one this time --- Gawd woman, don't drown the rum with that coke. You'd best add a dollop of Appleton's Jamaican Dark rum to give it body," the committee has voted 20 to 0 (16 members, but several voted twice, thinking the vote was for another round) to admit you to The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers. I, for one, am delighted to have you with us, for if you're not for us, you're against us, and given what you've done to this poor spotted turtle dove, I'm all for having you with us!

Cheryl ! ! !

The committee may owe you a huge apology!

I have had a message from one of Pixel Shooters most esteemed members to say that your Spotted Turtle Dove is a beautiful example of this fine bird, whereas Rudi's is an obese, puffed up bird which is so ill its feathers are lying flat! Worse, the poor thing can't even manage to stand on a pipe (apparently the preferred perch) and must instead alight on a big flat blob of a base for support.

A formal request to the Prime Minister of Australia to call a Royal Commission to deal with this issue has been sent.

In the meantime please know the committee is so upset that they may have maligned your fine photograph without cause that serious consideration is being given to breaking the "no alcohol before two in the afternoon" rule.



My dear Sir,

I thank the most honorable committee for my admission to this elite group. I take pleasure in the fact that as I have the submitted the worst photo up to date then anything I do from here on in can only be an improvement. May you only be judged by the company that you keep.

Cheryl

[Sheldon Bowles]

My dear Sir,

I thank the most honorable committee for my admission to this elite group. I take pleasure in the fact that as I have the submitted the worst photo up to date then anything I do from here on in can only be an improvement. May you only be judged by the company that you keep.

Cheryl

Well, as it turns out, it's not the worst photo by a long shot! Preliminary evidence before the Royal Commission indicates your photo is actually exceptional. Expect a call from the National Museum of Bird Studies, Australia.

May we all aspire to the levels you have reached!

[retief]

I am, per instructions, at long last ready to make Formal Application to your most esteemed order. Said application is requesting admittance for both myself and my wife, Nancy, with the added Flourish of the Hole Owl. In reference, the Hole Owl:

Nancy's:
http://www.deweydrive.com/g2/gallery2/d/8460-2/070401_D025716.jpg

Mine:
http://www.deweydrive.com/g2/gallery2/d/8587-2/070407_D016928.jpg

Has now become an exquisite Pole Owl as well:
http://www.deweydrive.com/g2/gallery2/d/8705-2/070428_D019064.jpg

In no way does this detract from the ...

Quintessential Pole Owl:
http://www.deweydrive.com/g2/gallery2/d/8585-1/070415_D017924.jpg

I shall now sit cross-legged in a very poor imitation of something Yoga-like because I have no flexibility, as I chant .... :
"Mommy-Homey-Pat-Me-Bum ..... Mommy-Homey-Pat-Me-Bum" whilst I meditate, in hopes that we may be found suitable for inclusion in such a world-reknowned group as ....

T.A.H.O.P.O.P. .....

Humbly yours, The Deweys ..........

[Sheldon Bowles]

Bill, Nancy, the admissions committee of The Ancient and Honourable Order of Pole Owl Photographers was called into session just moments ago. Unfortunately, the bottle of Mount Gay Rum (perfected by tradition since 1703) has nothing but fumes (43 percent alcohol ) left in the bottom. Without this Barbados lubrication the committee is unable to enter into full and meaningful deliberations. Accordingly, the committee stands adjourned while an emergency run is made to the local booze shop. However, I can tell you