Rusty’s class visited “the national science museum” this past week.  It was a week jam-packed with … uh, with … well, with some lip service about NOAA’s importance in tracking storms, oceans, and conservation. Mark jumped in to answer questions directed to the students, as is his habit. He patted himself on the back for his knowledge and gung-ho support for NOAA.  

In spite of this apparent focus on NOAA, it still seemed like the week focused more on Mark’s reactions. For example, the students and teacher Mavis essentially had nothing to say or do all week, other than stand in a line while Mark and Rusty grabbed center stage with the docent. There was very little demonstration or exhibits shown, losing an opportunity to better showcase NOAA’s work. 

I am not belittling NOAA. I stand on the opposite side of those who seek to dismantle, break up, or privatize this important agency. NOAA performs real and important work. There is a second week coming up, so maybe we’ll learn something. But so far, this has been a pretty weak story, offering no drama, plot, surprises, or enlightenment. Will today’s nature talk do any better? 

I reckon that we can at least agree that the title panel is colorful, though a bit meh. The topic of aggressive turkeys is at least topical. In my location, wild turkeys are found just about everywhere during the fall:  golf courses, parks, university campuses, and yards. I have not seen their aggressiveness, but I can testify to their stubbornness or stupidity when it comes to avoiding automobiles. The stand in streets with near complete indifference, to the point of getting run over from time to time.  

Question: What the heck is that orange shape in the title panel?