The AP reports that consumer complaints to the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) regarding receiving unwanted automatic telemarketing calls, also known as “robocalls,”
have risen sharply in the past several months. The federal government created the “do-not-call” registry in 2003 so that consumers could opt-out of receiving telemarketing phone calls. However, advancements in technology have
now led to a new and growing problem of automated robocalls being made to phone numbers included on this list.
Consumers may register their cell phones and landline numbers on the do-not-call list, and telemarketers are required by
law to check them every 31 days to ensure they are not targeting any contacts found on it. However, robocalls were actually
ruled illegal in 2009, unless the caller has written permission from their clients to do so, or the calls are made by a charitable
organization or are for informative purposes, such as notifying a client of a flight delay.
The main problem, according to FTC representatives, is that robocalls are highly attractive to illegitimate telemarketers
searching for more ‘bang’ for their buck – the computers making the calls can literally dial millions of
numbers within a few hours. In addition, the companies making these calls utilize caller ID scramblers so receivers see bogus
numbers calling them, or they change numbers so often that it’s impossible to keep track of which ones are actually
making the calls.
Furthermore, numbers of telemarketers checking the do-not-call registry have dramatically declined since 2007, says the
FTC. In 2007, nearly 64,000 telemarketers used the information provided, while only 34,000 did so in 2012. Some industry experts
claim this may be due to legitimate telemarketing companies turning to mail and email campaigns, however.
Complaints of unwanted telemarketing calls filed with the FTC have also risen from 65,000 in 2010 to more than 212,000
less than two years later. The FTC is planning on increasing its efforts of thwarting robocalls to include working on developing
technology that can prevent caller ID spoofing, as well as tracing where the calls are truly coming from.
The best advice on how to deal with receiving a robocall is to hang up so that the caller doesn’t think you’ll
answer, and will possibly slow down or stop calls to your number all together. Consumers may also file formal complaints with
the FTC at www.FTC.gov.
Optional Text or Photos
ClickZ Provides the latest internet advertising news, e-commerce market research, internet statistics and more.
CNET News.com Tech news and business reports with focus on information technology. Core topics include computers, hardware, software,
networking, and Internet media.
E-Commerce Times Everything you need to know about doing business on the Internet. Information for C-Level executives and small-to-mid-sized
business managers. Provides e-commerce news, opinion, feature articles, and special reports.
eWeek Offers 24/7 IT news coverage, features, analysis as well as special industry and topic-specific reports.
Information Week Online authority for IT and internet news, business and personal technology product reviews, and industry analysis through
blogs and opinion columns.
InfoWorld Provides IT news, blogs, and reviews covering all aspects of information technology including computer networking, network
security and more.
internet.com News network of over 150 web sites covering the internet, e-commerce, and IT industries.
Wired Daily news on how the IT are affecting business, society and culture.
WIRED magazine delivers the latest news and reviews on current trends in the world
of technology, business and culture. Also find gear, gadget and gizmo reviews and articles on innovative people and ideas
in each issue of WIRED magazine.
Asian Business Strategy Online magazine providing research articles, features, commentary and columns on business & management in Asia.
BTS Blog providing strategy alignment and execution news and ideas from experts.
Business Standards Focuses on the role that quality and standards play in business. Regular features include interviews with leading business
figures with news and views on the latest developments in management systems, registration and standards.
CEO Magazine Australia's business magazine focused directly at high-level executives in Australian companies.
Chief Executive Magazine written for CEOs and their peers. Provides ideas, strategies and tactics for top executive leaders seeking to
build more effective organizations.
Corporate Board Member Magazine for directors and board members serving on boards of publicly traded companies. Covers executive officer boardroom
issues - mergers, acquisitions, corporate governance, shareholders, IPOs, more.
Dialogue Publication covers varying business topics relevant to leaders in different management functions and different geographical
locations.
Disaster Recovery Journal Publication dedicated to the field of disaster recovery and business continuity.
Emergence Publication addresses complexity issues in management and integrates multiple perspectives in management theory, research,
practice and education.
European CEO Delivered quarterly to c-suite executives in 28 countries throughout Europe. Based in London, provides the numbers, detailed
analysis, strategy and guidance needed to make qualified business decisions in Europe's diverse marketplace.
Government Executive Government's business news daily and the premier web site for federal managers and executives.
Management Issues Focuses on the leadership, management and people issues that are at the heart of the changing workplace.
Management Today Leading UK magazine in management and business thinking, human resources, leadership, corporate social responsibility,
operations, technology, and expert opinions.
Meetings & Conventions Magazine of international community of meeting and incentive managers.
Perdido Features articles, profiles of organizations and their programs, and book reviews in the fields of leadership, human relations,
and management.
Performance Management Online magazine dedicated to examining, discussing and sharing the numerous and varied applications of PM technology with
its readers.
Selling Power Magazine for professional selling skills, motivation and sales management know-how in the business- to-business environment.
strategy+business Delivers penetrating insights and practical guidance about management, innovation, public policy, strategy, and more.
Workforce Management Provides information on employment law, human resource development and human resource management.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS
America's Network Magazine for telecom executives providing in-depth coverage focused on using infrastructure, applications and services
to increase competitive advantage and profits.
Billing and OSS World Magazine for service providers covering billing, OSS, customer care, and regulatory issues.
Cabling Installation & Maintenance Cabling solutions for fiber and copper communications systems. Covers coaxial, twisted-pair, fiber-optic, zipcord and
network management.
Call Center Dedicated to providing product and strategic information that the executives responsible for improving customer relations
and retention through call centers rely upon.
Communications News Magazine serves the decision makers responsible for networking, voice, data, and video communications technologies at
enterprise and service provider organizations.
Communications System Design Resource center for OEM design engineers and technical managers involved in the development of communication systems and
equipment.
Inside Telephony Global information resource & magazine for telecom industry including telecom and VoIP news.
Lightwave Magazine covering fiber-optic communications technology and applications for manufacturing, service and end-users.
Mobile Radio Technology (MRT) Magazine for managers who plan, design, operate and maintain mobile communications, systems and basestations. News, industry
updates, lastest technology reviews.
New Telephony Online magazine covering IP communications industry with daily news, weekly features and more.
Phone+ Premier magazine for VoIP, data, wireless, Internet and content solutions for the channel.
Telephony Leading magazine for all communications service providers: new and incumbent, wireline and wireless. Covers news, technologies
and business strategies driving the industry.
WhatSatphone Magazine An independent online magazine established as a source of consumer information and guidance relating to satellite communications.
Electronic Gaming Monthly Popular video game magazine offering both the beginner and expert the latest news, game reviews, and tips. Focuses on
video game consoles, including the Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, and Wii.
Escapist Magazine for a mature audience, covering digital entertainment culture with news, interviews and articles by the top writers
in and outside of the industry.
Gamasutra Game development magazine providing industry news, features and technical articles, job board for game developers, and
directory.
Game Developer Magazine Industry leaders and game development experts share technical solutions, review new products, and discuss strategies for
creating innovative games.
Game Informer Computer and video games magazine featuring news, previews, reviews, codes, and strategies. Covers PC, PlayStation 2,
GameCube, Xbox, online, and handheld games and peripherals.
Game Industry News Daily news source of the computer and video gaming industry.
Game Revolution Extensive independent source of video games information.
Game Spot One of the best online source for PC, PlayStation 2, Xbox 360, Wii, PS3, GameCube, PSP, DS, GBA, PS2, PlayStation 3, and
Xbox video game news, cheats, reviews and more,
GamePro Game news, previews, reviews, features, strategies, videos and downloads.
Games First Online videogame magazine providing independent coverage of videogames on all platforms.
Games for Windows America's top computer games magazine. Find in-depth reviews of new releases, previews of upcoming games, the latest on
new platforms and technologies, and the strategy secrets for winning.
Games Radar Offers the latest news, reviews and cheats on video games, PC games, and PlayStation games.
Inside Mac Games Macintosh gaming web site and magazine featuring exclusive sneak previews, demos, news, reviews, features, and more.
Official PlayStation Magazine Video game magazine focusing on PlayStation culture, including gaming on the original PlayStation, the PlayStation 2,
the PlayStation 3, and the PlayStation Portable.
PC Gamer Magazine providing product reviews, tips and cheats, and advice about hardware, software, and accessories for Windows-based
gaming.
WGE:MAG Published by the World Gaming Executives network, providing news and reviews about PC and console games.
WorthPlaying Reviews, previews, screenshots and an extensive PC/console game database. Covers Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Nintendo Wii,
GameCube (NGC), PSP, etc.
INTERNET
.net UK magazine providing practical advice on the full range of topics essential for today's web builders: design, development,
sales, marketing, usability, security, copywriting, advertising, and more.
alarm:clock Profiles privately-held technology ventures and tells you how these companies fit in to the technology landscape. Covers
Internet, wireless, hardware, and software companies.
First Monday Peer-reviewed journal on the Internet. Publishes original research papers about the Internet and related technologies.
Information Week Online authority for breaking Internet news. Featured coverage areas include search engines, browsers, Web 2.0, e-commerce
and web development.
Internet Scout Project Selection of newly discovered online resources of interest to researchers, educators, and anyone else with an interest
in high-quality online material.
Mappa Mundi Magazine examines information discovery on the Internet via an eclectic mix of ideas about technology, history, and the
future of cyberspace.
Media Mall Source for digital media entertainment news & reviews.
New Media Knowledge Knowledge-sharing hub for businesses and individuals working in digital media. Includes information on interactive television,
online music, government legislation, e-commerce, and more.
PenTest Magazine IT security magazine featuring articles by penetration testing specialists and enthusiasts, experts in vulnerability assessment
and management.
Web Developer's Journal Tips on Web page design and development, HTML, graphics, scripting, favicon, development tools, Java, sql basics, building
web sites, and more.
Computer Shopper Guide to the dollar-wise computer deals. Find reviews, top products, technology
deals and more.
Computer User Provides tech videos, reviews, news on software, hardware, gadgets, more.
Computerworld Covers news from the IT manager's perspective with a broad analytical view
of how that news affects the daily operations of technology enterprises.
Computor Companion Computer magazine edited to instruct, inform, and entertain beginning to
intermediate computer users.
Custom PC Magazine for PC enthusiasts with a passion for performance hardware and
customisation.
InfoWorld Provides IT news, blogs, reviews and conferences covering all aspects of
information technology including computer networking and security.
Laptop Magazine Reviews the latest mobile tech products and provides expert buying advice,
plus industry news.
Laptopical Opinions about laptops and notebooks, includes computer reviews and comparison
information.
MacLife Provides news and analysis about the Apple Macintosh and iPod. Features
daily blogs and a wide range of how-to articles and podcasts.
MacUser UK Mac magazine providing buying advice, reviews, news and practical features.
Macworld Features Apple, Mac, iPod, and iPhone news, reviews, tps and discussion.
Maximum PC Magazine for savvy PC users, with reviews, lab tests, and original do-it-yourself
content.
PC Magazine Complete guide to PC computers, peripherals and upgrades. Reviews of computer
and Internet related products, reports on technology news and trends, shopping advice and price comparisons.
PC Magazine Middle East Monthly magazine covering computer and internet industry news and updates
in the Middle and Near East.
PC Pro Major UK computer magazine. Provides labs-based reviews, entertaining features
and advice from consultants.
PC User Australia's premiere source of technical information for home, school and
small business computer users.
PC World Popular computer magazine offering advice on various aspects of PC and related
items. Features monthly Top 100 PC and product rankings, evaluations and ratings, tips, how-tos, step-by-step guides, and
more.
Personal Computer World UK magazine for independent computer advice. Covers E-Commerce, communications,
personal computing and security issues.
Smart Computing Source for computer troubleshooting, error messages, common problems and
installation tips.
Tech Wayz Latest smartphones and tablets updates as well as other related news.
COMPUTER PROGRAMMING
Application Development Trends Provides information about emerging software trends and technology to IT technical management involved with corporate
enterprise applications in large enterprises.
C++ Source Online magazine for practicing C++ professionals. Contains feature articles, information pertaining to the philosophy
and direction of C++ programming and related topics, tutorials for beginners, and a news section.
Developer Network Journal Articles for software developers working with .NET, COM, ASP and ADO technologies on the Microsoft Windows platform.
developer.* Independent magazine devoted to topics of interest to software development professionals of all types - programmers, software
architects, QA engineers, database designers, etc.
Doctor Dobb's Journal (DDJ) Premier programming magazine featuring software tools and tips for the professional programmers, as well as articles,
source code, book reviews, microprocessor resources and a store.
Java World Magazine provides the latest Java technology news, tutorials, how-tos, source code, and applets.
Leading-Edge Java Publishes articles of practical use to professional Java developers. News, tutorials, APIs, and tools, interviews, and
feature articles about new uses of Java technology.
Luminary Free monthly software project management, development and consulting newsletter.
MSDN Magazine Provides reports on the newest technologies affecting Microsoft network systems. Find source code, selected articles,
and back issues.
Perl Review Magazine about the language and community of Perl. Site features some free articles.
SYS-CON Media World's leading IT media company publishing AJAXWorld, Java Developer's Journal, .NET Developer's Journal, XML-Journal,
WebLogic Developer's Journal, Flex Developer's Journal, ColdFusion Developer's Journal, and more.
Visual Studio Magazine Independent Microsoft development magazine. Offers news, how-to, code downloads, blogs, more.
The AP reports that consumer complaints to the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) regarding receiving unwanted automatic telemarketing calls, also known as “robocalls,”
have risen sharply in the past several months. The federal government created the “do-not-call” registry in 2003 so that consumers could opt-out of receiving telemarketing phone calls. However, advancements in technology have
now led to a new and growing problem of automated robocalls being made to phone numbers included on this list.
Consumers may register their cell phones and landline numbers on the do-not-call list, and telemarketers are required by
law to check them every 31 days to ensure they are not targeting any contacts found on it. However, robocalls were actually
ruled illegal in 2009, unless the caller has written permission from their clients to do so, or the calls are made by a charitable
organization or are for informative purposes, such as notifying a client of a flight delay.
The main problem, according to FTC representatives, is that robocalls are highly attractive to illegitimate telemarketers
searching for more ‘bang’ for their buck – the computers making the calls can literally dial millions of
numbers within a few hours. In addition, the companies making these calls utilize caller ID scramblers so receivers see bogus
numbers calling them, or they change numbers so often that it’s impossible to keep track of which ones are actually
making the calls.
Furthermore, numbers of telemarketers checking the do-not-call registry have dramatically declined since 2007, says the
FTC. In 2007, nearly 64,000 telemarketers used the information provided, while only 34,000 did so in 2012. Some industry experts
claim this may be due to legitimate telemarketing companies turning to mail and email campaigns, however.
Complaints of unwanted telemarketing calls filed with the FTC have also risen from 65,000 in 2010 to more than 212,000
less than two years later. The FTC is planning on increasing its efforts of thwarting robocalls to include working on developing
technology that can prevent caller ID spoofing, as well as tracing where the calls are truly coming from.
The best advice on how to deal with receiving a robocall is to hang up so that the caller doesn’t think you’ll
answer, and will possibly slow down or stop calls to your number all together. Consumers may also file formal complaints with
the FTC at www.FTC.gov.
THE JACKIE & SHADOW STORY
THE BIG BEAR BALD EAGLE STORY
"JACKIE & SHADOW"
The Big Bear bald eagles, Jackie and Shadow, have been nesting in Big Bear Valley since 2013, This is the first time
in three years that they have successfully hatched eaglets. In 2019, they had two chicks; and in 2022, they had one. This
year they had three eaglets, but one of the three eaglets that hatched in early March did not survive a storm. It passed
away on March 13, 2025.
NAMING CONTEST
The "Friends of Big Bear Valley" (FOBBV) are hosting a naming contest for the two surviving eaglets.
The Friends are inviting the public to submit name suggestions until March 28, 2025.
The FOBBV is asking for gender-neutral name suggestions and is accepting donations of $5 for one entry, $10 for three entries,
or $25 for 10 entries. The final names will be chosen by Big Bear Valley elementary school students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th
grades. The winners will be announced on April 1, 2025.
EAGLE CAM
The FOBBV operates a 24/7 live webcam of Jackie and Shadow's nest, which has drawn thousands of viewers worldwide.
The organization relies on donations to maintain the livestream, which is free from advertisements. Donations are appreciated!
The Bald Eagle is a large, powerful bird that has been the national symbol of the United States since 1782. It is a member
of the Accipitridae family and is found near large bodies of water throughout North America. Here are some key facts about
the Bald Eagle:
EAGLE BEHAVIOR & HABITAT
SIZE: 3 feet in length, 6-7 feet in wingspan, and 10-14 pounds in weight.
HABITAT: Found near large bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and coastlines.
DIET: Primarily feeds on fish, but also eats other small animals and carrion.
CONSERVATION STATUS: Listed as a species of Low Concern, but was once endangered due to habitat destruction, hunting, and
pesticide use.
INTERESTING BEHAVIORS
Bald Eagles are known for their impressive eyesight, which allows them to spot fish up to a
mile away. They are also skilled thieves, and have been known to steal food from other birds.
NESTING: Bald Eagles build large nests, called eyries, which can weigh up to 2,000 pounds and measure 10 feet wide and 6 feet
deep. These nests are often used for many years and may be added to over time.
MATING: Bald Eagles form long-term monogamous relationships, with some pairs staying together for up to 20 years.
BREEDING: Bald Eagles typically breed between March and May, with the female laying 1-4 eggs per clutch.
HUNTING: Bald Eagles are skilled hunters, using their sharp talons and strong wings to swoop down on their prey. They can
also steal food from other birds, such as osprey and hawks.
MIGRATION: While some Bald Eagles are migratory, others are resident birds that stay in their year-round territories.
Some Bald Eagles migrate from Canada and Alaska to the contiguous United States each winter, while others remain in their
year-round territories. Those that migrate typically travel in large groups, often with other species such as osprey and hawks.
HUNTING TECHNIQUES: Bald Eagles are skilled hunters, using a variety of techniques to catch their prey. Some of their methods
include:
DIVING: Bald Eagles will swoop down from high altitudes, using their sharp talons to snatch fish right out of the water.
PERCHING: Bald Eagles will perch above a body of water, scanning for fish and other prey below.
STEALING: Bald Eagles will steal food from other birds, such as osprey and hawks.
PREY: Bald Eagles primarily feed on fish, but will also eat other small animals such as; rabbits, squirrels, mice, and
carrion.
The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and The Migratory Bird Treaty Act Overview
The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA) and The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) are two federal laws of the United
States that protect birds, including eagles. Here's a brief overview of each act:
BALD EAGLE CONSERVATION STATUS
The Bald Eagle is no longer considered an endangered species in the United States. In 2007, the federal government removed
the Bald Eagle from its endangered species list, and in 2024, New Jersey removed the Bald Eagle from its endangered species
list, citing a remarkable comeback for the species.
Regardless, the Bald Eagle's status remains of "special concern" in New Jersey, and the species is still protected under The
Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Additionally, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has
proposed listing three subspecies of the Bald Eagle as endangered and two species as threatened under The Endangered Species
Act.
It's worth noting that while the Bald Eagle is no longer considered endangered, conservation efforts are still necessary to
protect the species and its habitats. Ongoing monitoring, habitat preservation, and public education are key to ensuring the
species' continued success.
THE PROTECION LAWS: Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act
The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act (BGEPA):
was enacted in 1940 to protect Bald Eagles and Golden Eagles
The Law prohibits the taking, possession, sale, purchase, barter, transportation, and exportation of bald and golden eagles,
including their parts, nests, and eggs
The Law allows for certain exceptions, such as: •
Permits for scientific research, education, and conservation
• Permits for Native American tribes for cultural and spiritual purposes • Permits for the use of eagle parts
in traditional crafts and ceremonies
The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA):
was enacted in 1918 to implement international treaties with Canada, Mexico, and Japan to protect migratory birds
The Law prohibits the taking, possession, sale, purchase, barter, transportation, and exportation of migratory birds, including
their parts, nests, and eggs
Covers over 800 species of birds, including waterfowl, songbirds, raptors, and game birds
The Law allows for certain exceptions, such as: • Permits for hunting and trapping under specific regulations •
Permits for scientific research, education, and conservation • Permits for the use of bird parts in traditional crafts
and ceremonies
KEY PROVISIONS & PENALTIES
Both acts have similar provisions and penalties for violating the laws. Some key points include:
Penalties: Up to $100,000 in fines and/or up to one year in prison for individuals, and up to $200,000 in fines for organizations
Permits: Required for activities such as hunting, trapping, and possession of bird parts
Reporting: Required for the sale, purchase, and transportation of bird parts
Import and Export: Prohibited without a permit from the US Fish and Wildlife Service
Sottile Park Online Worldwide (SPOW) is a virtual cybercast park, offering users the ability to explore various locations
around the world through established web links. The cyber portal is named after Anthony W. Sottile, civic leader & family
man from The Heart of The Berkshires of New England. Virtually located in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, SPOW! allows users to
"travel around the world in one day" or "visit the world in 80 seconds." The website provides media links, add-ons, and promotional
tools for users to enhance their knowledge and experience, online.
Copyright 2010 to Present JDS / John David Sottile