Get ready for New Orleans
New twists on familiar traditions
The 85th AAPG annual meeting begins April 16. Highlighted are new formats, opportunities and summarizations of topics to be covered throughout the meeting.

 New Orleans to be 'Network Heaven'
Member Career Needs Addressed
Put on your comfortable shoes and come prepared to make contacts. Free to everyone is a seminar dealing with career options for geologists. Then in the Exhibit Hall is the Employment Booth (number 2815) where you can pick up a copy of "Using the Convention as a Career Self-Management Tool". Here's a checklist to help you maximize your stay.

 Friedman to Receive Powers Medal
Honors Set for 38 at New Orleans
AAPG awards are presented to recognize individuals for service to the profession, the science, the Association and the public. AAPG's highest honor, the Sidney Powers Memorial Award, will be given to Gerald M. Friedman.

 A Close Link With the Legacy
Friedman: A Powers' Connection
In 1964 Gerald M. Friedman moved to Troy, New York. Not only was Troy a center for the industrial revolution but it was the boyhood home of Sidney Powers. Thus, a circle is completed as Friedman will be honored for his continued efforts to keep the science of geology alive for future generations.

 'And the River Kept Rising'
Great Flood of '27 Left Its Mark
It started in August 1926, and by September heavy rainstorms had flooded the Mississippi River. John M. Barry will bring this tale to the AAPG annual meeting in New Orleans, first in a lecture and then as commentary during a Mississippi River cruise.

 Who (What) Is the Culprit -- and What Now?
Wetlands Loss Issues to be Aired
No one seems to agree on what should be done about Louisiana's disappearing wetlands. Many say the oil and gas industry are responsible for this loss while others declare it is due to natural causes. These issues will be debated at a forum during the AAPG annual meeting. Causes and possible solutions for this environmental crisis will be discussed.

 Naturalist Applauds New Guinea Efforts
Paradise and Oil Mix Nicely
Past experience had left physiologist and naturalist Dr. Jared Diamond the impression that oil and water cannot mix. Devastation of the environment was guaranteed by pursuits of the oil and gas industry ... or so he thought until Diamond traveled to the Kikori River area of Papua New Guinea.

 What Do You Say When You Are Asked?
So, Are We Running Out of Oil?
World undiscovered and reserve growth estimates as well as regional undiscovered estimates will be presented in New Orleans.

 Groat Leads 'Big Business'
USGS 'Getting Attention'
Charles "Chip" Groat will be speaking for two different luncheons at the annual meeting. Signs are optimistic at the U.S. Geological Survey where Groat is the director.