Articles and books I have written

Books I have written 

1. "Wisdom of the Wilderness: Stories of Animals with Environmental Messages" Discover the enchanting world of animals and their compelling tales in "Wisdom of the Wilderness." This collection of short fiction stories weaves together the lives of diverse creatures, each conveying an essential environmental message. Immerse yourself in these captivating narratives that celebrate the beauty of nature and inspire a deeper connection with the world around us.

   Get the book here: Amazon - Wisdom of the Wilderness

2. "Poems about Animals in the Solar System" Embark on a celestial journey with "Poems about Animals in the Solar System." This collection of short fictional poems takes you on an imaginative exploration of animals residing on various planets and moons within our star system. Each poem paints vivid landscapes and narratives, creating a unique blend of science and creativity. Join us in celebrating the wonders of the universe through these poetic verses.

   Get the book here: Amazon - Poems about Animals in the Solar System

Articles I have written follow

Step-by-Step Guides

Boomerang throwing

Boomerang throwing is influenced by various weather and climatic factors. For optimal performance and safety, consider the following conditions when throwing a boomerang:

1. Wind: A gentle, consistent breeze is ideal. Most boomerangs prefer a light wind, usually in the range of 3-to-10 mph (5-to-16 km/h). Wind direction is also crucial. Stand with the wind coming directly at your face (upwind). For right-handed boomerangs, the optimal orientation is typically about 45 degrees to the right of the oncoming wind, and for left-handed boomerangs, it's 45 degrees to the left. The wind helps the boomerang make its return flight. In no or very low wind, many boomerangs won't return, while strong, gusty winds can be unpredictable and may cause the boomerang to fly erratically.

2. Temperature: Boomerangs can be thrown in a wide range of temperatures, but extreme cold can make some boomerangs more brittle, especially if they are made from certain types of plastic or wood. Moderate temperatures are usually the most comfortable for the thrower and safest for the boomerang.

3. Humidity: While humidity doesn't drastically affect the flight of a boomerang, very high humidity might slightly alter the flight characteristics due to changes in air density. Additionally, prolonged exposure to high humidity might affect wooden boomerangs by causing them to warp.

4. Sunlight: Ideally, it's best to throw a boomerang when the sun is not directly in your line of sight, so you don't lose sight of it during its flight. Overcast days or times when the sun is lower in the sky are often preferable as are times when there is no rain. 

5. Altitude: The density of the air changes with altitude. Higher altitudes have thinner air, which can affect the boomerang's lift and flight. If you're accustomed to throwing at a certain altitude, you might notice different behavior if you change to a significantly different altitude.

6. Safety: Regardless of the weather or climate, always choose a location that is away from people, animals, and obstacles. An open field, park, or beach are ideal settings.

In summary, a mild day with a consistent light breeze and good visibility is optimal for boomerang throwing. If you're just starting out, it's also a good idea to practice in conditions that are as predictable as possible, so you can get a feel for how the boomerang behaves.

 Bibliography: 

Harris, Tom. “How Boomerangs Work.” HowStuffWorks, HowStuffWorks, 2 Nov. 2000, entertainment.howstuffworks.com/boomerang.htm. 

Latore , Sophia. “5 Ways to Throw a Boomerang.” wikiHow, wikiHow, 16 Dec. 2022, www.wikihow.com/Throw-a-Boomerang. 

Kite Building

Building an award-winning kite requires a combination of sturdy construction, aesthetic appeal, and aerodynamic efficiency. Here's a basic guide to help you create a high-flying kite:

Materials:

1. Lightweight yet strong materials such as ripstop nylon or lightweight polyester for the sail.
2. Flexible, lightweight rods like fiberglass or carbon fiber for the spars (frame).
3. Braided polyester or Dacron kite line, capable of supporting the kite's pull.
4. Tail material, which can be the same as the sail or lightweight ribbons.
5. Reinforcement material for high-stress areas, like where the spars meet the sail.
6. Kite handle or reel.

Steps:

1. Design:

   • Decide on a kite shape: There are various types like delta, diamond, box, or dragon.
   • Make your design stand out with unique patterns, colors, or themes. An award-winning kite often has a unique or particularly eye-catching design.

2. Build:

   • Cut your sail material according to the design.
   • Attach spars to provide the frame for your kite. Ensure they're securely fastened, as they'll face significant force in flight.
   • Reinforce points where the spars intersect with the sail. This prevents tearing under strain.
   • Add a bridle to your kite, which is essential for stability and control. The bridle's design and position can vary based on the kite's shape.
   • Attach the kite line to the bridle.
   • Add a tail to your kite. While not always necessary, tails can add stability, especially in gusty conditions.

3. Flying:

   • Choose a day with steady wind, ideally between 5-to-25 mph, depending on your kite's design.
   • Ensure the area is free from obstacles like trees and power lines.
   • Hold the kite with its back to the wind and let out line as the wind catches the sail. Alternatively, have a friend hold the kite and walk backward until the kite catches the wind.
   • As the kite rises, gradually let out more line. If you want to reach 200 feet regularly, make sure you have a reel with sufficient line length and strength.
   • Control the kite by adjusting the line tension. Wind it in to lower the kite and let it out to allow the kite to climb.

4. Safety:

   • Never fly kites near power lines, roads, or airports.
   • Avoid flying in thunderstorms; kites can act as lightning rods.
   • Use gloves if flying a large kite or in strong winds to prevent line burns.

5. Participation & Recognition:

   • To have your kite recognized as "award-winning," participate in kite festivals or competitions. These events often have categories for design, flight stability, and other criteria.

Lastly, practice and experience are crucial. Flying a kite to 200 feet might be challenging initially, but with experience, you'll learn to read wind conditions and control your kite more effectively.

Bibliography: 

Guerrero, Amy. “Kite Making and Kite Flying.” Kite Making and Kite Flying - How to Articles from wikiHow, Sunshine Craft Co, 7 Nov. 2022, www.wikihow.com/Category:Kite-Making-and-Kite-Flying. 

Larkey, Linda. “Steve Ferrel What It Takes to Make an AKA Award Winning Kite.” What It Takes To Make An Award Winning Kite, Grant Lovett, 10 Nov. 2021, www.u-make.org/2024-instructors-and-projects/steve-ferrel/steve-ferrel-what-it-takes-to-make-an-aka-award-winning-kite.  

Fiction Writing

Starangs: Guardians of the Galactic Arc

Chapter 1: Celestial Spin

In a corner of the universe, where nebulas whispered and stars blinked in silent camaraderie, the Starangs zipped and spun. Unlike any regular boomerangs, these entities were sentient, equipped with the latest in cosmic technology, and entrusted with the responsibility of guarding the Galactic Arc.

The Galactic Arc was an ancient cosmic pathway used by civilizations to travel the universe. As guardians, the Starangs' duty was to ensure its safety, protect its secrets, and maintain the balance of power in their region of the cosmos.

Starang Lumina, their leader, was the oldest and wisest. With a shimmering surface that mirrored the Milky Way, Lumina had seen galaxies form and fade. Beside her were Vortex, whose surface was a whirlwind of colors, and Nebula, who carried the essence of stardust.

Chapter 2: Disturbance in the Arc

One cosmic day, a dark void started consuming parts of the Arc. Panic surged as ancient routes disappeared and stars dimmed. The void wasn't just a space phenomenon; it seemed to have intent and direction.

Chapter 3: The Seekers

Starang Pulsar, the fastest among them, was sent to gather intel. He returned with news of the Seekers, a rogue group aiming to monopolize the Galactic Arc for their sinister plans.

Chapter 4: Collision Course

Using their technological prowess, the Starangs formulated a plan to trap the Seekers by creating a false Arc using celestial illusions. Vortex, with his whirlwind of colors, would be the bait.

Chapter 5: The Cosmic Dance

As the Seekers followed Vortex, a mesmerizing cosmic dance unfolded. The Starangs spun, twirled, and dived, creating intricate patterns in space, effectively trapping the Seekers in their illusion.

Chapter 6: The Power of Unity

The Seekers soon realized their folly. They were trapped in an endless loop, chasing a mirage. They pleaded for release.

Lumina, understanding the essence of unity in the universe, proposed a truce. The Seekers would help repair the Galactic Arc, and in return, they would be shown newer, uncharted paths in the universe.

Chapter 7: A New Dawn

Together, the Starangs and the Seekers restored the Arc. The universe, once again, pulsed with harmony, as new alliances formed and old prejudices melted away.

The Starangs, while still guardians, now had allies in the Seekers. The Galactic Arc, more vibrant than ever, became a testament to the magic that unfolds when adversaries become allies.

Epilogue: Infinite Arcs

In the cosmic silence, as stars continued their timeless dance, the Starangs, with their new allies, soared higher, seeking new arcs, new adventures, and endless possibilities.

And so, in the vast expanse of space, legends of the living boomerangs and their guardianship of the Galactic Arc spread from star to star, inspiring civilizations and kindling hope in the darkest corners of the universe.