<p>Despite being one of the most versatile and interesting amphibians in North America, frogs and toads (otherwise known as <i>anurans</i>) have traditionally not received enough attention from science. But now, with the population of modern frogs and toads dwindling at an alarming rate, author J. Alan Holman brings together the latest research and findings about ancient anurans, expanding the world's knowledge about these fascinating creatures while there is still time to understand and save them.</p> <p></p> <p>Comprehensive and lavishly illustrated, this essential guide provides a general account of the fossil record, a detailed account of individual anuran bones used in paleontological studies, and an epoch-by-epoch discussion of Mesozoic, Tertiary, and Pleistocene anurans and the changes they experienced throughout their evolution. Fossil taxa still living are reviewed in terms of modern characteristics, ecological attributes, modern ranges, and diagnostic skeletal elements. With detailed fossil history, biology, and anatomy, <i>Fossil Frogs and Toads of North America </i>is an informative, accessible book for anyone interested in frogs and toads and the scientific history of their evolution into the animals we know today.</p>
<p>Our Town: Spencer explores the rural Owen County community of Spencer, Indiana from the perspective of the people who live there.</p> <p>The program begins with genealogist Vivian Zollinger considering the pioneer heritage of the area and how the values introduced by the first settlers persist today. Important historic companies such as Spencer Wood Products and Honey Laymon's "counter-card" company then are considered, as well as contemporary businesses such as printer/publisher World Arts, Inc., the 80-year-old Babb's grocery store, and Chambers Restaurant, a local eatery whose fame has spread.</p> <p>Our Town: Spencer profiles nationally renowned artist Ken Bucklew, and local "walker" and patriot Tom Hamilton. It shows neighboring McCormick's Creek State Park in its spring glory and then stops in at the YMCA and at a local auction to reveal some of the town's ordinary sites and sounds. The visit ends with a brief look at how the medical devices industry in the form of Boston Scientific Corporation and Cook Urological offer a prosperous present and an optimistic future. A consistent theme threads throughout the program--it's the character of the people of Spencer that makes, and has always made, this community of 2,700 residents a wonderful place to live.</p>