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abinavgoyal · 6 months

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10 Must-Know Tips for Successful Building Construction in Canada

Are you planning a building construction project in Canada? Whether you’re a seasoned builder or a novice in the construction industry, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest tips to ensure a successful project. In this article, we will share ten must-know tips to help you achieve just that.

From obtaining the necessary permits to hiring reliable contractors, we will guide you through every step of the process. Our tips will cover crucial aspects such as project planning, budgeting, material selection, and site management. We will also provide insights into Canadian building codes and regulations to help you stay compliant and avoid any legal issues.

By following these tips, you can streamline your construction project, minimize costs, and maximize efficiency. Whether you’re constructing a residential building, commercial facility, or industrial structure, our expert advice will equip you with the knowledge you need to succeed.

Don’t let your construction project become a nightmare. Read on to discover the essential tips that will help you achieve a successful building construction project in Canada.

Importance of successful building construction

Successful building construction is vital for various reasons. It ensures the safety and well-being of occupants, enhances the aesthetic appeal of the structure, and contributes to the overall development of the community. A well-constructed building also increases its value and provides a solid foundation for future renovations or expansions.

Understanding the Canadian construction industry

Before embarking on a construction project in Canada, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the country’s construction industry. Canada has a robust and highly regulated construction sector that adheres to strict building codes and standards. Understanding the construction landscape will help you navigate the process more efficiently and avoid any potential pitfalls.

Building regulations and permits in Canada

Obtaining the necessary permits and adhering to building regulations is crucial to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues. In Canada, each province and territory has its own set of building codes and regulations. Familiarize yourself with the specific requirements in your jurisdiction and ensure that your construction plans align with these regulations. Engaging with local authorities and building inspectors can provide valuable insights and guidance throughout the process.

Hiring the right construction team

One of the keys to a successful building construction project is assembling the right team. Hiring experienced and reputable professionals, including architects, engineers, contractors, and subcontractors, is essential. Conduct thorough research, check references, and review past projects to ensure that the individuals or companies you choose are qualified, reliable, and have a track record of delivering high-quality work.

Creating a comprehensive construction plan

A well-defined and detailed construction plan is the foundation of a successful project. Start by outlining the project’s objectives, scope, and timeline. Identify the required resources, including labor, materials, and equipment, and create a budget that considers all aspects of the construction process. A comprehensive plan will help you stay organized, manage expectations, and mitigate potential risks.

Ensuring safety and compliance during construction

Safety should always be a top priority in construction projects. Implementing proper safety protocols, providing adequate training to workers, and ensuring compliance with Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) regulations are crucial steps. Regular inspections and ongoing monitoring throughout the construction process will help identify and address any safety concerns promptly.

Managing construction timelines and budgets

Effective project management is essential to keep construction timelines and budgets on track. Regularly review project progress, identify any delays or cost overruns, and take corrective actions as necessary. Proper planning, communication, and coordination among all stakeholders will help minimize disruptions and ensure that the project stays within budget and is completed on time.

Using sustainable building practices

Sustainable building practices are becoming increasingly important in the construction industry. Consider incorporating energy-efficient technologies, using environmentally friendly materials, and implementing waste management strategies. Sustainable construction not only reduces the environmental impact but also offers long-term cost savings through reduced energy consumption and maintenance.

Leveraging technology in construction projects

Technology has revolutionized the construction industry, offering new tools and processes that can enhance productivity and efficiency. Embrace technology solutions such as Building Information Modeling (BIM), project management software, and drones for site inspections. These tools can streamline communication, improve collaboration, and provide real-time data for better decision-making.

Case studies of successful building construction projects in Canada

Examining case studies of successful building construction projects in Canada can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Learn from the experiences of others, understand the challenges they faced, and analyze the strategies they employed to achieve success. Case studies can offer practical tips and lessons learned that can be applied to your own construction project.

Don’t let your construction project become a nightmare. By following these ten must-know tips, you can streamline your construction project, minimize costs, and maximize efficiency. Whether you’re constructing a residential building, commercial facility, or industrial structure, our expert advice will equip you with the knowledge you need to succeed.

Remember, successful building construction requires careful planning, attention to detail, and collaboration with the right professionals. With the right approach, your construction project in Canada will be a testament to your expertise and dedication. Start implementing these tips today and pave the way for a successful construction journey.

#young Canadian entrepreneurs #Canadian entrepreneurs 2023 #successful business in Canada #entrepreneur awards Canada #Famous Canadian entrepreneurs #construction industry in Canada #management and leadership #Garry Sangha #leadership and management skills #construction in Canada #project management leadership #leadership skills in project management #building construction in Canada #Indo-Canadian entrepreneur #largest construction brands in British Columbia #construction companies in British Columbia #largest not-for-profit tournaments in Canada #sensitize young voters in Canada #Garry Sangha entrepreneur

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that-student-that-has-homework · 3 months

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Portgas D. Ace Headcanons 01

Excuse me Oda-sensei, but that 40 year old Ace is simply criminal. Thank you so much for blessing us with him

Anyway! Have some Husband!Ace headcanons For more Ace content please head to my Tumblr MasterList

Ace is, respectfully, a huge simp for his wife

To the extent that the Whitebeard crew straight up jokingly awarded him with a “Biggest Wife Simp” Award

They made it look official and had Whitebeard sign it and everything. There's even a stamp.

Ace has it framed and hung proudly on the wall next to your bachelor’s degree / college diploma / degree in general.

I feel like despite his own personal insecurities, Ace still manages to be an amazing father

I imagine Ace originally setting out for like one or two kiddos at most (because y'know...what if he's not good enough) and ending up with 3 or 4 kids

Thing is, that’s both your faults.

Ace is tender and goofy with his kids, and he’s so friggin caring: to the extent that…well wouldn’t it be neat to see him with maybe another 2 or 3 kiddos of his own?

(Your husband is hot okay?)

In his case, he swears you have a unique glow about you when you’re pregnant. But more than that when he sees you with your first born, he suddenly wants a big family with you.

I imagine his kids are an eldest son, then his princess, then the youngest boy who takes after his uncle Luffy.

His kids aren’t parentified. He keeps his issues far, far, away from them. Besides, he’s got you by his side.

He was dedicated to making sure they got as much playtime as possible.

He heard about learning through play, and he is DEDICATED to doing that as much as possible

Ace’s kids are spoiled with affection, but not spoiled brats.

While it’s true he’d give them the world, he’d rather let them go get it themselves.

For example: when they asked for a tree house, he gave them the greenlight immediately.

But they had to build it themselves.

It was a super fun project lasting a little over two months with the whole family involved.

Oh and the Whitebeard crew helped too.

It took a while to get the design down initially, then the shopping logistics and whatnot (they used a lot of math here - see education via play)

Building the thing took maybe a weekend or two because the Whitebeard Crew and even the Strawhats came over to help

(It was mostly Franky and Usopp doing work, Sanji was cooking with Thatch)

Uncle Luffy was not allowed near the construction zone after an accident.

They almost destroyed the tree house with their partying once

Ace’s kids were not happy and no one was allowed in the backyard for the rest of the night

He makes sure they have proper manners and self-defense skills

You had to help out here, no lie.

He admitted he needed your help, especially after a dinner with Garp where Makino tagged along to see Ace again

He puts all of his kids into martial arts classes

especially his princess - he’s so proud of her when she beats up bullies

He’s not great at discipline though to be honest. He probably goes about it similarly to Garp.

Ace will not tolerate any of his kids being nasty to their mother. No matter the phase.

You will have to hold him back if you want to let them get their frustration off their chest.

He’ll let them talk, but you’ll have to keep a hand on him somewhere, his arm, his hand, his knee, his shoulder, his back and rub soothing circles

Let’s just say, “talk shit, get hit,” is Ace’s attitude towards anyone being demeaning towards you (more so with adults, not his kids, but that's why they get a scolding)

"Ace my love" (he melts every time you call him that) "the kids’ll start thinking you love me more than them if you do that"

"My kids won’t disrespect their mother though!"

"They’re just venting darling, and when they say or do something that violates my boundaries, I'll be sure to reinforce it. Lead by example right?"

If they ever feel like pissing Ace off for fun they can just say something kinda not nice about you and he'll get mad and they'll flee from him giggling like the little gremlins they are

Ace is veeeeeeeeerry physically affectionate and he isn’t shy about it at all.

At gatherings with the Whitebeard family, he will gladly seat you in his lap, he will happily hug you as you are seated.

His arm is on your waist most of the time.

They tease him to make him tone it down, he does not.

He, in fact, dials it up. Turns up the heat lol.

You have kids? Not in front of them? What do you mean, not in front of the kids? It’s important they know just how much he loves their mama!

So he will continue to be playful with his hugs and kisses and other displays of affection.

It’s nothing too over the top. Just hugs and quick pecks wherever.

Your entire head is fair game for his smooches, your arms (he loves kissing your pulse and then making eye contact, sneaky guy that he is), your shoulders.

Maybe lifting you and spinning you around. Cuddles. Little bites.

He will play-wrestle his kids to “fight” them over getting to cuddle you, and then he’ll just put all his weight on all of you in a group cuddle

Just to let you know, your kids also receive all the warmth and love of his affections.

When his sons are still tiny and adorable, he smooches them all over. The kisses grow less frequent as they grow older, but the hugs do not stop.

Oh no, hugs galore.

Ace still pecks his little princess on her forehead though

When they’re all under ten he’ll wrap them in a hug (after he chased them down and caught them so they’re laughing and screaming) and start smooching their cheeks while they laugh and try to get out of his grasp

Also yes she’s his princess, but that girl has no problem throwing a fully grown man twice her size around, he made sure of it.

I reiterate: Ace is not remotely shy about displays of affection

Like his eldest could have a friend over, and Ace would still launch a full scale hug attack using the rest of his troops (daughter/youngest)

It's complete with screeching, screaming, and a lot of laughter

His kids used to get teased for it, but it didn’t take more than a few conversations for them to instead jeer at the kids that teased them.

"You’re all jealous your parents don’t love you like ours do"

"How sad, your parents don't hug and kiss you"

Their dad, grandpa, uncle - uncles really, are all gremlins - it's in their DNA

The kids are really physically affectionate with each other as a result

Deadass they’ll be kicking the shit out of each other one second and the next they’ll be all cuddled and huddled up playing Mario Kart or something

Ace is his kids’ hero.

His sons aspire to have his level of fitness.

His daughter, when she’s older, uses him as a standard for dating

You're relieved

Ace is touched and a touch nervous, because he is aware of his shortcomings, though he works hard to keep improving

Of course when you look at him, a twinkle in your eyes, and tell him, “I’m so proud of her, I’m so proud of you!” He feels better

When you continue: “if she can find a guy like you, who cherishes her as much as you cherish me, I’d be so happy.”

Ace loves you so much he swears

#portgas d ace x reader #portgas ace x reader #portgas ace x you #one piece x reader #one piece x you #portgas d ace x you #portgas d ace fluff #portgas d ace #portgas d ace fanfic #one piece fanfiction #one piece #ace one piece

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cuubism · 2 years

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actor hob, and pretentious asshole film director dream

[ this got so long and so weird and specific i'm so sorry ]

so hob is an everyman actor. a good actor, charismatic, funny, fan favorite, but not the type that gets cast in highbrow art films. mostly he does like romcoms, mid-budget action movies, feel-good family films, etc etc. and he's totally cool with that, he's good at what he does, and people enjoy those films, anyway. he might be getting a bit bored though, a bit stagnant. might be thinking it's time for some reinvention. and there might be a certain director whose ridiculous and nonsensical but dreamy films he's particularly enamored with...

dream makes REALLY pretentious art films. the types that get studied in graduate level film classes and have fifty different academic papers with fifty different theses trying to puzzle them out. dream is a master of themes and images and subtle construction. he is also a COMPLETE asshole and impossible to work with, an auteur in the most stereotypical way possible, he writes and directs, he micromanages all his projects, he asserts his vision and god help anyone who goes against it. nobody can handle him, nobody can STAND him, and the only reason he still gets funding for these projects is because they win awards, so many awards, and the studios want to ride on the coattails of those awards. but it's getting to the point where even his most ride-or-die producers are ready to give up.

right off the back of dream's most recent bafta, a rather naive Big Exec approaches him to direct the next installment of his Big Superhero Franchise. dream is immediately like fuck off with that bullshit but the exec pleads with him that the franchise is flagging and they really need something new to spice it up. plus the pay will be enough for dream to finance like 10 of his own ridiculous art films without having to rely on producers for money. and dream really is about to get cut off for being a complete insufferable asshole so he takes the gig. it kind of feels like prison though.

anyway, he gets to work trying to make this shitty boring film at least marginally less shitty and boring. he doesn't have a lot of leeway -- a lot of the story is locked in, half the cast is set from prior installments etc. dream immediately regrets taking this job, he'd rather die in actual prison than work on this mindnumbing piece of trash. it feels like it's taking an eternity and who could possibly stand an eternity of this???

well. enter hob, whose agent managed to snag him a 2nd-lead sort of role in this thing. it's not QUITE the reinvention he was going for but the pay and exposure are really good -- and even if they weren't, the moment hob saw that dream was attached he was immediately on board.

cue dream tearing his fucking hair out and basically being a complete menace and diva on set -- no that wasn't good, yes we have to do a 57th take, oh my god this dialogue is horrible give me that shitty script i'm writing my own thing, what do you mean the plot is linear???, wait there are how many cgi aliens????? i'm going to kill myself -- and Hob, pretty much Just Happy To Be There as always, takes one look at this beautiful dramatic emo asshole and is like oh. yes. i don't know what i'm saying yes to, but i'm saying yes. just immediately enamored with this bitch against all logic, he's like i've seen all your films i know how your mind works you brilliant nihilistic mess of a person. i'm on board. let's go.

first scene that hob's in dream is once again ranting about the atrocious script, which he did not write and is hardly allowed to change -- or, every change he makes is too weird and the studio keeps nixing it. everyone keeps sighing and being like oh my god can we please just shoot i wanna go home, meanwhile hob's like alright then. let's workshop it. and dream's just like. what. you aren't just gonna tell me to shut up? and hob's like no, youre right, this script is trash, but i know you're just going to write something really weird and psychedelic that they won't let you shoot. and dream's like you dare to speak to me that way??? and hob just puts his hands on his hips and is like listen, i actually know more about this sort of general audience family film thing than you do, mister arthouse, so are you going to work with me or not? and dream's just like what... is happening... because usually people who try to 'handle' him either just cave to his every demand like wimps, or just fight him on everything to 'prove' that they're in control, and hob is just kind of... not doing either of those? anyway dream doesn't know what to do with him.

so they workshop it. turns out hob actually DOES know how these sort of general audience all-follow-the-same-three-act-structure films work and how to improve things within those confines, and also he understands what like, normal people like, you know, casual feel good movies, not everything has to be a mindbender, jesus. so they bounce ideas off each other for like 3 hours until they finally get something that's okay enough that dream no longer wants to fling himself into the sun. meanwhile everyone on set is staring at them like 👀. then dream is like come back to my trailer we are rewriting the other 116 pages of this script right NOW. what else is hob supposed to do but follow.

then hob becomes the designated Dream Handler on set. dream starts using him as his barometer for what 'normal people' would like because he does not understand that at all. ("hob, will 'people' accept this?" "well considering youre spinning the camera around on a string i'm gonna go out on a limb and say no"). dream becomes kind of obsessed with him because his life is so like, normal, and he's okay with it?? he doesn't find existence to be an insufferable prison from which there is no escape?? and hob is like aw i know you're such a tortured artistic soul *pats him on the head*. plus, hob is actually a good actor, and he's able to put a lot of heart into even this mediocre big budget film, and kind of forces dream to confront the idea that there's more than one good type of story. that different stories serve different purposes and a straightforward happy story is okay, actually.

(and that the problem is the corporatization of the storytelling, not the story itself)

anyway the movie ends up being pretty good, dream still kind of hates it because he wasn't given full artistic license but he has to grudgingly admit that it has at least some merit. after the premiere hob is like (cheekily) so you gonna direct the sequel? and dream is like i did not write that to have a sequel. and hob's like it has a cliffhanger? and dream's like so???? and hob's like well theyre definitely gonna make a sequel. and dream's like i hate this planet. also no i'm not going to make the sequel. i'm going to fuck off to the woods and make a movie about teeth. do you want to star in it? and hob's like you're so fucking weird i'm obsessed with you i'm going to kiss you now.

so yeah, that.

#dreamling #the sandman #just chuckin aus into the void cuz who knows if i'll ever actually write them #sorry this au became insane XD #it got SO much longer and more meandering than i was aiming for i just wanted to write a little 2 paragraph summary LOL #then it grew several legs #long post #anyway dream doesn't have a 'full name' in this btw he just directs under Dream like he's beyonce or something 😂#you can think of dream as sort of like ingmar bergman or luis bunuel #and hob is like. mark ruffalo. so you can try to imagine that dynamic if you wish XD #sort of inspired by the way art film directors keep getting roped into directing marvel and disney films for some reason??#my writing

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bcacstuff · 1 month

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Design of Midhope Distillery

The parts of document I'm showing in this post was presented and designed on June 26, 2020

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

This Design and Access Statement accompanies a Planning Applica- tion for a new Single Malt Scotch Whisky Distillery at Midhope Castle which lies within the Hopetoun Estate on the outskirts of Edinburgh. It is intended this is the first of a series of applications containing proposals to regenerate the Castle, the surrounding listed buildings and landscape setting.

The overall project aims to create an environment to produce, share and market an exceptional whisky. Its success depends not just on the production of whisky but on the ability to invite guests to see the creative process, appreciate its origins and have the time to experi- ence the whisky and the environment. It is intended in the future that the castle will be the venue for a significant part of these activities.

Note, the clients Golden Decanters and Hopetoun estate are the original applicants. Golden Decanters changed their company name since April 2022

Design Team

Project Manager - Curries & Brown

Currie & Brown works across the public and private sectors, including commercial property, consumer goods, defence, education, funding institutions, government, healthcare, high-tech, hospitality and leisure, industrial, mixed-use developments, nuclear, pharmaceuticals and life sciences, PPP/P3, residential property, retail, trans- portation and logistics and utilities and renewables. wWith our global reach, Currie & Brown brings together a large group of talented professionals to offer our clients a comprehensive range of the services, experience and expertise, together with a significant value added offering.

Planning Consultant - Scott Hobbs Planning

Scott Hobbs Planning (SHP) is an established planning and development consul- tancy founded in 2004, servicing clients throughout the British Isles, for major mixed use, commercial, retail and residential development. The practice has wide ranging and detailed experience in all aspects of planning-related work including national policy shaping, development planning and development management; development framework and master-planning; and consultation processes.

Architect - 56three Architects

56three is a design based Practice with projects covering new build, conservation and refurbishment works throughout the UK.

We have an award winning team of architects, technicians and interior design- ers who are able to provide the full range of architectural services from feasibility through to construction.

Landscape Architect - rankin fraser landscape architects

rankinfraser landscape architecture llp was formed in January 2008. Based in Edin- burgh, Scotland the practice brings together Chris Rankin and Kenny Fraser – two Landscape Architects with over 30 years combined experience of delivering award winning projects from conception through to completion

We combine practice with research and teaching to provide our clients with a thoughtful, creative and professional approach to landscape design and place mak- ing covering public realm, landscape urbanism, housing landscapes, education and health projects in urban and rural situations.

LOCATION

The site is approximately 11.5 miles West of the City of Edinburgh, 5 miles to the North West of Edinburgh airport, 3.5 miles to the West of the South Queensferry, and a little under half a mile South of the Firth of Forth. It has an overall area of 6.9 hectares within the beautifully managed Hopetoun Estate. Hopetoun House is approximately 1 mile East of the site.

SITE

The site is located within Hopetoun Estate but outside the area of the Designated Designed Landscape that surrounds Hopetoun House and Abercorn to the east. The site for the new distillery is located to the immediate west of Midhope Castle.

The Castle is reached via an access road runs for approximately a quarter of a mile, west from the road link between the hamlet of Ab- ercorn and the A904.

The site to the east of the Midhope Burn is largely dense woodland. A Fireworks manufacturing business is currently located in a large clearing near the entrance to the site. This clearing was formerly the location of a Saw Mill.

The access road arrives at a small car park. There is a path that leads to the outer wall of the Castle courtyard.

Midhope Castle is to the north-east of the site with a courtyard and a modest walled garden to the immediate South. Behind the castle, just to the north, is a small derelict Victorian, ancillary building.

In the space to the east of the castle toward the approach road there are two Victorian cottages and a doocot.

The site for the distillery building is to the south-west of the cas- tle and in an area that is currently occupied by a number of modern agricultural sheds and some hard-standing left from recent utilitarian ancillary structures. The area is functional and has no obvious sig- nificant historic structures. It currently houses the grounds for a tree climbing and chainsaw training company which is in the process of relocating.

HERITAGE CONTEXT

The original Midhope Castle (recorded as “Medhope Castle”) was built in the late 15th century. In 1587 this castle was partially rebuilt.

The castle was extended in 1664 and reached the general arrange- ment and form that can be seen today. Further extensions and altera- tions took place in 1678.

By the early 20th century the castle was in a state of disrepair and the interior timber staircase recorded as being in poor condition.

In 1988 a programme of consolidation and partial restoration was undertaken. A new roof was formed on the West Tower and steelwork was inserted within the shell of the castle to stabilse the structure. New window frames were inserted into the existing openings. This work seems to have arrested any further significant deterioration.

Today the building is in a ruinous state internally, and most of the in- ternal features have been lost, but is generally wind and water tight.

Midhope Castle was designated as a Scheduled Monument in 1950 and was given a Category A listing in 1971 . In 2018 the Scheduled Monument status was removed and the designation was simplified to the current Category A listing.

The Roy Lowlands map of 1754 shows the castle within the wider context of the Hopetoun House Estate. To the north of the castle are a series of geometrically arranged copses either side of an axis that relates to Hopetoun House to the west. Today some of these trees are still visible.

The landscape around Midhope Castle is also visible on this plan - the series of walls that form the courtyard at the castle, and the larger open area to the west.

The 6 inch map of 1854 more shows Midhope Castle in the form that it can be seen today. The approach path from the east, the Doocot, the gamekeeper’s cottage and the walled garden to the south of the castle are visible.

This plan also shows the state of the landscape to the west of the castle. A path or track extended out from the courtyard into the land- scape and a series of gardens were enclosed to the north.

The south edge of the site was defined by a row of trees that aligned with the walled garden.

The remaining traces of these landscape structures have informed the location of the new distillery building and the landscape strategy.

MASTERPLAN APPROACH

The current application is the first in a series of planned phased pro- posals for the site that will initially improve the setting, and stabilise the fabric, of the castle, and later seek to reuse and regenerate the castle.

The construction of the distillery and the production of the whisky need to be the first steps in order to establish the business and generate income in order to progress to the next phases of the wider project.

In the medium term there are also plans to open parts of the castle to facilitate some of visitors who currently visit the site due to the castle’s association with the “Outlander” television series.

There is the ultimate aim to use the castle for visitor functions that are complimentary to the new distillery – tasting spaces, dining, and potentially overnight accommodation.

All of these future works will carefully balance the repair and refur- bishment of the existing historical fabric of the castle and surround- ing landscape features. Further refinement of the timing and content of these next phases will reviewed as the project develops.

VISION

Initial works

The current Planning Application is for the new distillery building together with the immediate landscaping, a new access road and the change of use of Midhope Castle to visitor accommodation.

An application for Listed Building Consent will follow. This will include the repair and refurbishment works to the landscape features around the castle- the reinstatement of the damaged stone piers, the re- gaining of the walled garden and cobbled castle forecourt and the potential removal of derelict outbuildings. It has not been possible to gain access to the site to carry out these surveys due to restrictions imposed by the Covid 19 crisis.

Next steps

Future Planning Applications and Listed Building Applications are planned as the business becomes established. These include plans for a Maltings Building at the former Sawmill site, work to the castle and extensions as appropriate, repurposing of the Dovecot, and other facilities in the grounds of the castle and distillery.

SCOPE OF INITIAL PHASE

It is possible to conceptually divide the site into two areas, they can broadly be described as modern farm building land and the castle grounds. It is not intended that the physical distinction between the areas be over emphasised in the finished design but it is a useful tool in describing the approaches to the specific areas. The distillery is proposed to be on the farm building land, with the main road and the access road coming across the castle grounds.

The farm building land does not have any obvious structures of histor- ic significance, whilst the castle grounds are rich with elements that are historically significant and referred to in the category A listing of the castle and the Category B listing of the Doocot.

The historic influence on the farm building land is most strongly ap- parent in its relationship to the castle grounds. The land spreads in a relatively level expanse from the castle and forms the base of an approximate bowl. This reinforces the sense that the area that will house the distillery, despite being the larger area, is attendant on the castle as the most substantial historic structure on the site.

Very little work is proposed to the immediate castle grounds in this application. The client wishes to take the time to carefully consider the appropriate design and relationship with the existing buildings. The intention is to intervene in this area as little as possible at this point and only to the extent that is required to access the distillery site without negatively affecting the significant historic fabric.

The castle grounds are subject to ongoing analysis and will be the focus of future applications in subsequent phases.

DESIGN PROPOSALS

The distillery is seens as the first phase of a sequence of develop- ments on the wider site aimed at enriching the landscape and improv- ing the setting and fabric of Midhope Castle.

The aspiration is to create a unique place where the production of Whisky, the landscape it draws from and the heritage of the site can be enjoyed. The setting and location is key to the proposal.

The new distillery building will have two main functions. It will pro- duce over 500,000 litres of whisky a year from Barley grown on the Estate. It will also offer visitors the opportunity to see all aspects of the Whisky production process and to enjoy the unique historical set- ting and landscape.

The setting of the distillery is one that has many layers of history. It will be close to Midhope Castle, which is known to date from the fif- teenth century and along with the land around has been altered many times over the subsequent years. The castle was occupied until the 1920s and each periodw has resulted in change. The additions to the castle are clear to see, and there are buildings around the castle that date from the 1800s. The setting shows a timeline of agricultural use and castle shows evidence of the varied occupation that ranges from aristocracy to the workers on the land.

The castle is the embodiment of the historic significance of the site, and this position is to be carefully maintained. The orientation of the new design is lead by the influence of the existing fabric. It’s form will have a larger footprint but a lower height, it will not compete with the castle but rather work alongside it, and by looking toward the castle’s raised entrance create an exciting new dynamic.

SETTING & ACCESS

The approach to the site will be along the existing track which winds through dense woodland to a clearing that is currently used as a car park for visitors to the castle.

From here a new access route is proposed to take service traffic for the distillery to the south, away from the castle and existing cottages.

The existing footpath leads up to the castle courtyard past the listed dovecot building and existing Victorian cottage and outbuildings to the north.

The courtyard sits between the castle and the overgrown walled gar- den to the south. To the west of this enclosed outdoor space is the open area currently given over to light industrial and agricultural use. This largely flat area of land sits within a shallow depression relative to the surrounding wider agricultural landscape. This will be the site of the new distillery.

The distillery begins to be visible on moving through the courtyard. The new building will align with the traces of an route that once ran through this area out to the west.

SETTING & RESPONSE

The new building consists of three, simple shed-like forms.

The largest is a long, pitched roof building that edges the south of the site. This building will contain most of the distillery production areas and spaces for visitors – a display area containing whisky ma- turing in barrels, tasting spaces, and multi-purpose areas that can be used for exhibitions and functions.

To the north is a second smaller pitched roof form that contains the stills and shelters the worm tubs.

To the south a third pitched roof form encloses external tanks and barrel storage.

A service yard is located to the south of the distillery and sits be- tween the new building and the existing embankment. The service yard and the more industrial activity is hidden from view from the surrounding landscape and most importantly is invisible from the ap- proach road and castle. Access to the service yard will be provided by a new road formed to the south of the main site.

The public areas of the distillery will offer views back to the castle and the landscape to the north. The landscape around the distillery will reinstate paths and routes that we once on the site.

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

The basic form of the new building has been influenced by common simple, robust utilitarian agricultural buildings. From a distance the distillery will appear as a grouping of simple, quiet forms in the land- scape.

The still house will be wrapped in timber giving it an abstract quality. This building will contain the stills and their copper forms will be vis- ible through the glazed gable facing the castle courtyard.

The still house sits in a cooling pond and forms a gathering place at the visitor entrance to the distillery. This entrance aligns with both the reinstated road and wall running east to west but also with the existing track that leaves the site to the north.

A large framed window on the first floor of the distillery offers pano- ramic views back to the castle, across the structured landscape close to the distillery and further to the agriculutral fields of the estate beyond. These large windows will be edged in bronze metal cladding,

The maturation display area at the east end of the building will be clad in stained or charred slatted timber that will allow in direct light into the space. On dark evenings this end of the building will glow and act as a lantern drawing visitors across the landscape from the castle.

As I showed in my previous post, these plans are now revised and filed again on 8 February 2024, awaiting a decision. This document was filed on 21 March 2024. There are some minor changes to the original plans which were already approved in 2021

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rjzimmerman · 1 month

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Excerpt from this story from The Hill:

The Biden administration has finalized standards for federal buildings that will eliminate onsite fossil fuel usage for new projects by the end of the decade, the Energy Department confirmed Wednesday.

In the announcement, first shared with The Hill, the Energy Department said the rule will require 90 percent cuts to emissions from new construction between fiscal 2025 and 2029, with onsite emissions eliminated from all new projects and major renovations beginning in 2030.

The administration projects that the cuts will save $8 million in taxpayer funds from equipment and infrastructure expenses, and they will eliminate 2 million metric tons of carbon emissions and 16,000 tons of methane emissions over the next three decades.

An official with the Federal Energy Management Program told The Hill the final rule is part of the mandate given to the Energy Department by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007.

“DOE has issued three separate proposals over the years to implement this requirement, but as of tomorrow, we will have a final rule for it,” the official said, saying the final rule is “a regulation that applies to new construction and major renovations, and it fulfills Congress’s mandate to cut emissions, reduce fossil fuels.”

The rule defines “major” renovations as those costing $3.8 million or more, the official said, meaning “smaller projects” will be excluded. The rule will also include an option to apply for limited, case-by-case exemptions for scenarios, such as supply chain issues or issues with a building’s physical structure that make the technological adaptations impractical.

The Biden administration also introduced a federal standard in 2022 that required at least 30 percent of federal buildings to cut direct greenhouse gas emissions to zero by 2030. As part of these efforts, the administration announced the installation of rooftop solar panels on the Pentagon in January as part of the first round of $250 million in awards to improve federal buildings’ energy efficiency.

#fossil fuels #federal buildings

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jujumin-translates · 6 months

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Event | Act 3.5 Event - NEW ERA GARDEN | Chapter 2

*Contains spoilers for Act 12 - eternal moment*

Kazunari: Ah, “New Fleur Award Executive Committee” is trending.

Itaru: Never thought they’d suddenly start a video channel.

Kumon: Are they gonna announce what the new Fleur Award is?

Itaru: I think they’re still working on preparing that.

Banri: The stream’s about to start.

Yukio: “…”

Reni: “…”

Izumi: Ah, it’s Dad and Kamikizaka-san.

Tenma: It’s kind of weird seeing those two standing next to each other.

Yukio: “Welcome, everyone, to our official video channel. I’m Tachibana, a member of the New Fleur Award Executive Committee.”

Reni: “I’m Kamikizaka.”

Reni: “On this channel, we would like to share our efforts towards the new Fleur Award.”

Reni: “We will hold another formal stream in the future to explain the details of the new Fleur Award, so please wait for that.”

Reni: “To begin, we’ll start with showing you this short video.”

Izumi: Eh!? That’s a theater!?

Kumon: It’s under construction? As in, it’s brand new!?

Muku: That reminds me, I have seen some construction around Veludo Way lately!

Yuki: Oh, so they’re talking about that place.

Taichi: So it’s a theater for the new Fleur Award!?

Reni: “A new theater, complete with equipment for streaming, is being built for the new Fleur Award.”

Tasuku: They’re seriously even building a new theater…

Sakyo: And complete with streaming equipment, so does that mean the next Fleur Award will have the basis of being streamed online…?

Kazunari: I wonder if that was Yukio-san’s idea?

Izumi: Probably…

Izumi: (I heard that MANKAI’s theater was built based on Dad’s idea… I’m sure this is something he’d think of.)

Izumi: (I hope Kamikizaka-san isn’t struggling to deal with Dad’s recklessness again…)

Reni: “The seating and exterior are yet to be completed, and it’s expected to take some time before it can be officially opened, however…”

Reni: “The foundation for the stage has been completed.”

Reni: “Now, Tachibana will explain the schedule for the new performance, which is meant to be for the unveiling of the new theater and to test out the equipment.”

Yukio: “I would like to put on a performance and stream it as my return as a director in Japan next month on the foundations of the new theater, which will eventually be the stage for the beginning of the new Fleur Award.”

Taichi: EHH!?

Izumi: Dad’s return as a director!?

Yukio: “The streaming will be free of charge, as it will also serve as a test run for the streaming equipment.”

Yukio: “The contents and performers are a secret for now, but we hope you look forward to this festival project.”

Kumon: I wonder who’s gonna be performing?

Kazunari: Maybe the first-gen?

Banri: But next month? That seems like it’s pushin’ it for the schedule.

Tsumugi: I wonder if the preparations for this have been going on for some time now.

Sakyo: I wonder. Knowing Yukio-san, there’s a possibility it was just a spontaneous idea…

Izumi: (Whatever it is, I’m kind of excited to see Dad’s new work!)

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Yukio: …And that’s that!

Kasumi: I see!

Hiro: …And that’s that?

Zen: …

Syu: …Haah.

Zen: How did you manage to get all of us together? It’s not a busy time of year for me, so I can handle it, but…

Kasumi: My job allowed me to write an exclusive feature article for “Spotlight” about this.

Yuzo: You were so reluctant to come last time, yet this time you were basically the first one here.

Kasumi: Quiet, you. Those were different circumstances.

Syu: And I thought popular actors often had strict schedules.

Hiro: If I’m told I’m gonna perform with the rest of the first-gen group on the stage for the new and important Fleur Award, I’m putting it first no matter what.

Hiro: If it was an issue with the higher-ups, I would’ve just gotten things adjusted. But what about you, Syu-san? Don’t you have your own theater company to worry about?

Syu: There was a younger person I had my eye on, so we had a meeting and I asked them to take over the role for next month’s performance. What about you, Reiji?

Reni: As a board member, it’s sort of something I have to take on.

Yukio: It seems like Yuzo is the only one who can easily participate.

Yuzo: You make it sound like I have nothing better to do!

Yukio: Thank you, everyone. It makes me really happy to be able to do theater together like this again.

Yuzo: So what are you gonna do with us now that we’re all here?

Hiro: Is it a rerun of an old performance?

Yukio: Fufu, I think you’ll all be surprised by this one. The new performance will be about… the Shinsengumi!

[ ⇠ Previous Part ] • [ Next Part ⇢ ]

#a3!#a3! translation #yukio tachibana #reni kamikizaka #kasumi hinamori #hiro hyuga #zen kuryu #syu otomiya #yuzo kashima

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spacetimewithstuartgary · 3 months

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New SpaceTime out Monday...

SpaceTime 20240219 Series 27 Episode 22

Technical issues hit the Mars Perseverance rover

Mission managers and engineers are working to resolve a technical issue which is affecting NASA’s Mars Perseverance Rover.

Was snowball Earth caused by an impact winter

A new study claims Snowball Earth events which cover the planet in ice for thousands to millions of years could have been triggered by an impact winter caused by a large asteroid strike.

The astronomy of ancient standing stones

Scientists statistically prove that the earliest standing stone monuments of Britain, the great circles, were constructed specifically in line with the movements of the Sun and Moon, 5000 years ago.

Next generation NASA space suit being tested in microgravity

While NASA’s new space suits for use of the lunar surface are still being developed and are now years behind schedule and over budget -- another space suit project – this one for use aboard the International Space Station has now reached the testing phase.

The Science Report

Nearly half of the world’s migratory species now showing population decline.

Magma flows into the dike beneath Iceland moving at unprecedented speeds.

Fossils of a 380 million year old fish discovered in the Fink River south of Alice Springs.

Skeptics guide to the Welsh big foot

SpaceTime covers the latest news in astronomy & space sciences.

The show is available every Monday, Wednesday and Friday through Apple Podcasts (itunes), Stitcher, Google Podcast, Pocketcasts, SoundCloud, Bitez.com, YouTube, your favourite podcast download provider, and from www.spacetimewithstuartgary.com

SpaceTime is also broadcast through the National Science Foundation on Science Zone Radio and on both i-heart Radio and Tune-In Radio.

SpaceTime daily news blog: http://spacetimewithstuartgary.tumblr.com/

SpaceTime facebook: www.facebook.com/spacetimewithstuartgary

SpaceTime Instagram @spacetimewithstuartgary

SpaceTime twitter feed @stuartgary

SpaceTime YouTube: @SpaceTimewithStuartGary

SpaceTime -- A brief history

SpaceTime is Australia’s most popular and respected astronomy and space science news program – averaging over two million downloads every year. We’re also number five in the United States. The show reports on the latest stories and discoveries making news in astronomy, space flight, and science. SpaceTime features weekly interviews with leading Australian scientists about their research. The show began life in 1995 as ‘StarStuff’ on the Australian Broadcasting Corporation’s (ABC) NewsRadio network. Award winning investigative reporter Stuart Gary created the program during more than fifteen years as NewsRadio’s evening anchor and Science Editor. Gary’s always loved science. He studied astronomy at university and was invited to undertake a PHD in astrophysics, but instead focused on his career in journalism and radio broadcasting. He worked as an announcer and music DJ in commercial radio, before becoming a journalist and eventually joining ABC News and Current Affairs. Later, Gary became part of the team that set up ABC NewsRadio and was one of its first presenters. When asked to put his science background to use, Gary developed StarStuff which he wrote, produced and hosted, consistently achieving 9 per cent of the national Australian radio audience based on the ABC’s Nielsen ratings survey figures for the five major Australian metro markets: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth. The StarStuff podcast was published on line by ABC Science -- achieving over 1.3 million downloads annually. However, after some 20 years, the show finally wrapped up in December 2015 following ABC funding cuts, and a redirection of available finances to increase sports and horse racing coverage. Rather than continue with the ABC, Gary resigned so that he could keep the show going independently. StarStuff was rebranded as “SpaceTime”, with the first episode being broadcast in February 2016. Over the years, SpaceTime has grown, more than doubling its former ABC audience numbers and expanding to include new segments such as the Science Report -- which provides a wrap of general science news, weekly skeptical science features, special reports looking at the latest computer and technology news, and Skywatch – which provides a monthly guide to the night skies. The show is published three times weekly (every Monday, Wednesday and Friday) and available from the United States National Science Foundation on Science Zone Radio, and through both i-heart Radio and Tune-In Radio.

#science #space #astronomy #physics #news #nasa #esa #astrophysics #spacetimewithstuartgary #starstuff #spacetime

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omgkalyppso · 8 months

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I've been thinking of eventual post-canon vampire Étoile.

The Pale Elf spoilers. End Game BG3 spoilers. If you open this and it's too long for you, you can press J on desktop to skip it.

Étoile did not ascend Astarion but I am brainstorming / working on a fic where he rips Cazador's throat out with his teeth while he's stabbing him to death so we get Astarion (and his six siblings) as vampires.

Either two, or twelve, or a few hundred years in the future depending on what I settle on, Étoile would eventually be made a vampire. I have a lot to consider with a fucking town of undead to manage (I'm sure Étoile grew up on the outskirts of a village of 400 and like. wtf. the numbers) (I've been reading about the populations of Waterdeep and Baldur's Gate and calculated Cazador's diet*).

The more immediate problem for Étoile is Raphael, who has the Crown of Karsus.

I need to decide whether Everything Happens At Once as it does at the end of the game. Does Karlach really start burning up right after Astarion? Does Étoile really have to choose between mourning, drinking with Shadowheart or facing Florrick and official business? Or can we spread this out over a few days? Does Raphael's message come to them that very first night? Or is it a week later? A year? Raphael says he's going to be coming to knock on their door "soon" - does that mean next? Does that mean within the week? Does that mean after a decade? How many planes or how much of the material plane should I imagine at risk or destroyed before Étoile has an effective solution.

What-if's are fun = like what if there's no solution? What if saving the world from this is someone else's journey and my short-lived hero dies or finds themself alone and abandoned? But that's not fun for a fic concept / full exploration to me.

Possible solutions for Raphael include:

Following in Gale's footsteps and making a plea to the divine. Becoming Auril's champion, if not her chosen. Either so that she will award Étoile with armor fit to fight a demi-god in the hells, or so she will be able to send them directly to Raphael so they don't have to go traipsing through the hells to get to him - regardless of whether she could summon them back. Either to provide her the Crown so she could freeze it in her frozen collections where she keeps natural phenomena, artworks and artists in ice for her to admire, with the risk that she would freeze Étoile as well in the end. Or to provide her the Crown to wear or to absorb, to return to her a piece of her that she's lost — reclaiming her previously stolen power over snow storms, even though she's abused this before.

Dishonoring Karlach's memory and making a pact with Mephistopheles or Asmodeus. Mephistopheles has had the Crown before and kept it hidden away, and Asmodeus has long been the Archdevil Supreme over the divided Nine Hells, either would likely be cunning enough to take advantage of the situation. And otherwise compelled enough to insult Raphael so specifically as to make (even) a (temporary) ally of his ... not rival. Pet project. Infatuation. This is especially fun if Mephistopheles feels slighted by not inheriting 7000 souls due to the way The Pale Elf resolved. If Étoile thought they were about to be betrayed after Raphael's defeat, they could put on the Crown, go to another plane, and die under the weight of it, only to be resurrected and mocked by "Withers" for stumbling so much on their path, "although being only mortal, it was always going to be so." Multiplying their survivor's guilt.

Asking Gale who already hates them to do the impossible and the ultimate blaspheme against his Goddess: If the Crown of Karsus - and the Karsian Weave - was constructed, could he create an equivalent to destroy the original? And why would he do this when they could have given the Crown to Mystra to begin with? And if he did do this, why would he involve Étoile in any capacity? In private, Étoile offers to hold him, as they should've held Karlach, in her last moments. They will allow him whatever revenge he chooses, if only he applies his mind to this for as long as he's able. Gale finds a way to detonate the Crown in the same way he managed to accidentally do the same with the Orb during his first encounter with the thing. They have a magical barrier / ward / shield that they don't expect to survive the blast, and when the Crown detonates, Étoile uses Warding Bond on Gale in solidarity / for good measure, but the like-magic instead starts siphoning / tearing the Orb from Gale's person, until his soul and the Orb are both outside of himself for a brief moment until the Orb tears away as if magnetically drawn to the Crown, and in the instant it happens, a portal to another plane opens beneath them, dropping them into another world, safe from the destruction they've left in the Hells. Gale's alright. I think Rolan would come on this adventure too.

We don't deal with Raphael. The Blood War is neverending and Asmodeus is going to swat him like a gnat.

We don't deal with Raphael. He was being coy. He comes by for tea and sex twice a season.

In any scenario where Étoile and Raphael face off, I will delight in writing / imagining battle dialogue. Étoile would absolutely throw in Raphael's face that he had needed them to get the Crown because Daddy put it up on a high shelf.

Once Raphael messages Étoile his warning, I think Étoile would lose it. They may have even included in Raphael's pact that he couldn't bring the Crown back to the material plane, but that doesn't stop his armies or hellfire. It just sets the stage for where they'd have to fight, if I decide that Raphael couldn't come back to the material plane for some reason -- because he won't be parted from the Crown, if it won't come back then neither will he.

But Étoile would worry about the fires and sun-situation in the Hells, they will worry about their responsibilities to facing this. They will want to be continuing with Astarion into the Underdark to organize the vampire spawn. They will want to be able to hope for that life after they've dealt with the latest insanity. They would try to convince Astarion that they need to part ... but they wouldn't be half as convincing as he is.

Astarion would propose that there could be a person among the seven thousand who has dealt with devils before, and may have advice. He will accuse them, after all their promises and all his honesty of feeling safe with them that they'd leave. He would argue in favor of his abilities and his perspective, his knowledge of the situation and Étoile's dwindling number of available allies, that he is capable of being an effective resource against Raphael's threats.

Étoile would presume to argue that Astarion's siblings and the vampire spawn won't tolerate them coming and going, and Astarion will declare that they will have to. Unless they want to be overrun with infernal portals and an even more inhospitable landscape — any source of blood, human or animal, would be at risk if Raphael starts throwing his weight around.

When Raphael is dealt with in some way, and after at least a year, but probably more like 6 at minimum of settling into whatever routine looks like for the vampire spawn (alliances with Wyll as Duke Ravengard, with the Sword Coast at large, perhaps with another plane or two, maybe even with some peoples of the Underdark), Étoile would be overdue for a journey home to see their mother.

Either this would be the first of centennial visits (at the very least) over the next few centuries (Aranea only has so many years left in her), or it would be the last significant visit before something irreparable was broken between them. Whether this is the first and last visit where Étoile visits as a living creature, or whether the last visit is far in the future, during that visit, their mother, Aranea, can see this will be A Last Time just by looking at her child. And she will throw a fit.

She's so angry. Heartbroken. Trying to convince Étoile to see it as a manipulation (while not truly believing this) and asking Astarion not to kill her child.

Aranea is concerned for two specific things: The first is death, whether as transformation or otherwise. She's not concerned that her child could "live" for centuries, but that Étoile would die before her. This is death. It's death and no one would be able to talk her out of that or around it. Astarion has a grave. It's death. She doesn't want her child to die. Her second concern is vampires' various weaknesses. The thought of someone exposing her child to sunlight in a day or in a millennia and to die a second time, in such a potentially horrible way, or to be driven to madness by years — and to seek an end because of it— She wouldn't want this for Étoile, nor Astarion but that ship's sailed; she can only console against what has yet to pass.

But Étoile only wanted to see her once more, the decision's already made, no matter the dread Aranea's outburst puts in Astarion. And when Étoile is briefly dead, whether in Aranea's house or in Auril's temple, they are laid out as if for a wake by the hands of whichever two servants or companions followed them and Astarion to this cold mountain. Aranea has locked herself in her room, stoic but inconsolable. Astarion stays with Étoile — right up to the moment where they wake, and he has to face what he's done.

He cannot hear their heartbeat, he never will again. Their natural scent lingers on their packed clothing, their pillowcase in another room; but their body too will forever have that 'whiff of undeath' as Shadowheart put it. The warmth of their body is muted and lost. Étoile's coloration has changed so that any who looks upon them will wonder if they don't know, that there is something unliving about them. They will have no reflection, no sunlight, and the unending, inescapable thirst. They may not even sound the same with fangs in their mouth.

They did not suffer as the vampire spawn in Cazador's care, but for all their suffering, Astarion could at least convince himself sometimes and often that Cazador was the monster, and— And now he's done this. He's taken something that can never be given back, and in a way he's even taken it from himself. Every vampire he's ever known has tried to hurt him, has been duplicitous and selfish and— Will Étoile inherit these traits too? Is their emotional heart as dead as their true one? Will he be as instinctually repulsed by them as he has been by nearly all other vampires?

When Étoile sits up, Astarion runs to a closed door, it hardly matters where, he cannot face Étoile though they call to him from the other side.

I just need a good contrast to how ascended Astarion is awed by his own power the beauty of the player character as a vampire spawn.

I was telling a friend that I was gaining new perspective for how Dr Frankenstein must have felt in the horror of the birth of his creation. What horrible misery, what glorious life, what inerrable pain - woe, success! No longer was his creature his ambition, now they were the same.

Astarion doesn't use some of his deepest terms of endearment for a while, and of course Étoile is understanding — but also afraid, offended, hesitant. There's an adjustment period, even though Astarion doesn't choose to control them once he can, doesn't delay longer than it takes for the subject to come up (1 day) to allow them to drink from him for full vampirism.

Meanwhile none of Astarion's siblings have the hang ups he has with regards to Étoile as a vampire and they tease and delight in how Étoile not only represents them in public, they've been folded into the clan.

I've assigned the vampire siblings ages and past careers for those who weren't explored in canon. I have headcanons for vampire spawn oc's who are part of their little society. My favorite is Anastasia. Only a week turned by Leon, she has a son and does not wish to go to the Underdark arguing that she is not starved as the others are, that she is still in full control of her mind and her ambitions. She helps develop their Council of Twenty. Wait, let me back up: many of the vampire spawn and all of the vampire siblings agree early on that they don't want to refer to themselves or for outsiders to call them the Szarr Clan or Cazador's Spawn; but there are seven vampires now, and to choose a name between them for all to agree to go by could easily come to insults and battle and abandonment; but they all know Étoile for what they've done for them and what they've done for Baldur's Gate. They call themselves House Ienith; which was once the name of a House in Menzoberranzan, and Étoile worries it will upset the drow because that House was disbanded when their mother was a child, but besides risking insults and a lack of allyship, it was discovered that so long as they were not trying to occupy the compound that used to belong to House Ienith, were not claiming authority in drow politics, and recognized that they would never be accepted as their House revived, that they at least weren't enemies. Drow envoys occasionally scout or visit.

Several drow book-keepers are calculating what several thousand vampire spawn could be leveraged for or against.

Anyway! The Council of Twenty of House Ienith consists for some years of the seven vampires (Astarion and his siblings), seven vampire spawn — one from each vampire's subclan as voted upon by their members, four vampire spawn from any vampire subclan as voted upon by all members, a vampire spawn who is a child to ensure that particular group's unique needs are met, and Étoile for whenever they are present. Some are more comfortable that Étoile would be a vampire, and I do think a not-inconsequential number of them would experience some kind of jealousy, either that they couldn't turn a person or twelve that they chose, or that they were not eligible to become a full vampire themself.

I think that the vampires feel some kind of way using their new powers over the vampire spawn, but I do think they have at least 4 Rules that the vampire spawn are magically obliged to follow, and then otherwise a series of laws that they're as beholden to as the population of any mortal city.

I have even more thoughts about their governing structure and Baldur's Gate, etc. But I think I've said everything I wanted to say in this very long post.

I think we should introduce Doctor Dalyria and Araj Oblodra. Dalyria would probably like her as much as Astarion does At First, but then they'd be experimenting in blood magic and possible vampirism treatments like nobody's business.

*So presuming Cazador either also did some of his own hunting or that his spawn brought him victims that were unsuitable for the ritual, I'll say he consumed 8500 victims over 200 years which is 4 people per month. If a vampire (spawn) needs 4 people / boars / creatures of similar size per month to survive then 7,000 vampires need 28,000 animals per month. Sheep in the player's handbook have a cost of 2 gold. That's 56,000 gold per month to feed these fuckers if we're conducting trade; but that's only 8 gold per person, which makes it sound more reasonable. But a person eating the meat - a single sheep should be able to last 6 months, rather than 1 week. There is the possibility that the vampires could sell the meat / partner with butchers in various cities as some number of livestock has got to be dying anyway to feed the mortal populace, but which butchers will work with them, which people will eat meat so close to undead, who will buy dinner from vampires? And could the farmers of livestock ultimately put up with demand? Might have to resort to starting up "vampire quarters" in cities all across Faerûn.

#long post #oc tag: étoile #i'm sure my lore is spotty but i don't need corrections! thank you #baldur's gate 3 spoilers

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lonestarflight · 11 months

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Orbital Sciences X-42 Pop-Up Upper Stage or Upper Stage Flight Experiment (USFE)

"In the 1996/1997 time frame, the U.S. Air Force began to define plans for building blocks of a future Military Spaceplane (MSP) system. The full scope of these plans came to public attention in January 1998, when the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Space Vehicles Directorate (VS) requested proposals from the industry to study various aspects of advanced military space technology. This included research related to a potential MSP system. The latter was to cover concepts for RLVs (Reusable Launch Vehicles), SMVs (Space Manoeuver Vehicles, see X-37/X-40), so-called CAVs (Common Aero Vehicles, see X-41/Falcon) and finally pop-up upper stages. Pop-up upper stages were defined as rocket stages, which could be used by RLVs or ELVs (Expendable Launch Vehicles) to boost payloads to their final orbits and/or to perform orbital manoeuvers.

Earlier, in 1997, the AFRL had already begun a formal program to develop a pop-up upper-stage, named the Modular Insertion Stage (MIS). The MIS was defined as an expendable, low-cost, liquid-fueled upper stage, which could be scaled by using one to three rocket engines (hence the 'modular' label) to suit all expected user needs. It had already been determined in AFRL-sponsored studies in 1997 by TRW and Rocketdyne, that the best-suited propellants for the requirements (storable, non-toxic fuels) would be hydrogen peroxide and kerosene. Subsequently, AFRL cooperated with NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) in funding and management of further development of the MIS. MSFC had its 'Bantam' low cost lift program running since 1997, and this provided a suitable contractual framework for the MIS effort. It was decided to build an MIS flight demonstrator, called Upper Stage Flight Experiment (USFE), and Orbital Sciences Corp. (OSC) was eventually awarded a contract to design and build the USFE. At some time in late 1997 or early 1998, the designation X-42A was officially allocated to an expendable demonstrator for pop-up upper-stage technology. However, this designation has so far not been further used in any official announcements, and therefore it is unclear if it will be actually applied to the USFE project (in fact, that doesn't appear too likely; see RLV section below).

Construction and component testing of the USFE prototype proceeded through mid-2003 on a relatively low-key basis. However, in that year a tank failure during a helium pressurization test completely destroyed the engine. Since then, a second prototype has been built, but propellant tank leakage problems have again delayed the program. If tests with a new tank, scheduled for early 2006, are successful, the USFE could be ready for a flight demonstration by May 2007. For this test, the USFE would be fitted as the third stage on top of a two-stage booster provided by OSC (most likely the first two stages of a retired Minuteman missile).

X-42 RLV Demonstrator

The X-42 designator has also been unofficially used by the AFRL and the industry in 2002 for a possible RLV demonstrator. Orbital Sciences Corp. (OSC) has presented a design, which is based on its Multi-Role Reusable Vehicle (MRRV) concept, a winged vehicle powered by a single RS-27 rocket engine. The significance of the use of 'X-42' for this proposal is not quite clear, but it appears to emphasize that the vehicle could be a reusable solution to the upper stage requirement.

OSC X-42 RLV Demonstrator

By 2003, this design had slightly evolved, featuring a single vertical tail on the fuselage instead of the wingtip fins. A single CAV (Common Aero Vehicle) could be carried atop the fuselage and launched in space. OSC's X-42 was equipped with a conventional tricycle landing gear and a braking parachute in the aft fuselage. The vehicle was designed for versatile trajectories and short turn-around time on the ground (14 days), making it a true 'space launch workhorse'.

The X-42 label has also been informally used in a few papers and presentations to refer to other proposed test vehicles related to RLV and TSTO (Two Stage To Orbit) technology. The acronym RAST (Reusable Access to Space Technology) has also been mentioned together with X-42. All said, it looks as if the X-42 designation is currently not tied to a specific program or vehicle."

Information from Andreas Parsch: link

source, source

#Orbital Sciences X-42 #X-42 #Orbital Sciences X-42 Pop-Up Upper Stage #Pop-Up Upper Stage #x-plane #United States Air Force #U.S. Air Force #US Air Force #USAF #Department of Defense #DoD #NASA #classified #DARPA #my post

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safetycourses2022 · 2 months

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#𝐂𝐨𝐬𝐦𝐨𝐬 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐭𝐞 (𝐂𝐈𝐓𝐈)#𝐄𝐎𝐒𝐇 - 𝗨𝗞 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 & 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗲𝘁𝘆 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐬 #Award in Construction Project Management #Level 2 - Award in Basic Workplace Construction & Process Safety #Level 3 - Award in Workplace Construction & Process Safety #Contact Us:#Mob:#+919787872866 #+919787873866 #Email:#[email protected]#Web:#www.cosmostrg.com #WhatsApp Channel :#https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaHMYayGufJ45OH4Xo1n #WhatsApp Group :#https://chat.whatsapp.com/IunhDueyuLsEPc9SkB7dlK #eoshcourses #eoshcourse #eosh #eoshuk #construction #constructiontraining #constructionprojectmanagement #ConstructionSafety #healthsafety #HACCP #constructionprogress #foodsafetytraining #firefighter

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kemetic-dreams · 3 months

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The writer, O. Dave Allen is a community activist and political commentator

MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica, January 25, 2022 - We the Jamaican people are at risk of becoming slaves again. We are a country with 95% African people. It’s a fact that the majority of the African population is at the bottom of the economic pyramid while the 5% at the apex are the minorities who control the economy. We all know that the economy is the superstructure that determines everything else, we also know that those who control the economy rules the country. It is time for majority rule.

When the Chinese were commandeering the local retail and distributive business, it was of little concern to the traditional moneyed class. Their long held sense of security is now threatened by the fact that the Chinese have cornered the retail business and have accumulated untold millions, buttressed by unaccountable billions of dollars of dubious origin with an insatiable and avaricious appetite of the tiger spreading their tentacles devouring all that is in its path.

There is an insidious war that is being waged by the Chinese business interest that will undermine all and every local Jamaican business. We are not here dealing with the compliant Chinese shopkeepers of yesteryears; but a contrived network, led by the Chinese State to dominate and control the Jamaica economy with Montego Bay as the entry point, bolstered by the powerful Association of Chinese Enterprises in Jamaica (ACEJ), a non-profit organization.

This mega conglomerate is akin to the Dutch East India Company (The Dutch East India Company historically a military-political-economic complex rather than a pure trading or shipping company).

Can you imagine the consequences when the Chinese would have established their own bank and formal financial intermediaries?

Recently China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), was awarded the Government of Jamaica funded US$274.5-million Montego Bay Perimeter Road Project, which includes the rehabilitation of Barnett Street and West Green Avenue, as well as the construction of the Long Hill bypass and a drainage study of the Montego Bay bypass area is also to be conducted under the project.

This catalysis project strengthens the presence of the Chinese in Jamaica and serves as beachhead in Montego Bay to supplant the hegemony of the United States of America in Jamaica and make a mockery of the Monroe Doctrine as they pursue endless war at distant shores.

The Montego Bay perimeter road is funded by the Jamaican taxpayers and as such there is no justifiable reason why this contract should have been awarded to any overseas contractors.

The government has a duty not only to provide physical infrastructure but also to effectively use our taxpayer’s money to build our social capital and to strengthen the capacity of our human resource.

We have developers, engineers, contractors and consultants with more than adequate competencies to develop the Montego Bay Development Road. Our local professionals have demonstrated the capacity to execute and manage major projects as exemplified by the work carried out by Jamaican professionals on the Northern Coastal Highway.

In the recent Andrew Holness cabinet reshuffle the Hon. Homer Davis was appointed to head the Office of the Prime Minister West. This is no accident, but a strategic move to ensure the orderly integration of the Chinese into western Jamaica.

Minister Davis and Former Mayor of the City of Montego Bay enjoys more than cordial relationship with the Montego Bay Chinese community with numerous visits to China during his tenure in office. With the support of the Chinese Dr. Horace Chang remains the most powerful member of the Holness’ Cabinet.

While Bishop O’Neil Russell, and others may be disappointed in the reappointment of Dr. Horace Chang as Minister of National Security, they missed the bigger picture that Chang has consolidated his power base with the appointment of his Deputy General Secretary and his protégé Homer Davis as head of OPM West and the ostensible Emissary of the Chinese community, the new power base in Montego Bay.

To those who sing praises of Homer’s appointment, are living in a fool’s paradise. It is not about you, it is about the Chinese work permits and citizenship, building approvals, the clearance of their goods at the wharf and importantly their security. Homer Davis as a conduit who will ensure that the JLP is fully funded to win the next elections.

There will be a seismic shift in business activities back to the old city of Montego Bay. This regeneration started with Harmony Park, the building out of the downtown Montego Bay Waterfront District and soon the regentrification of the urban centre.

Finally, Who gave the Chinese the permit to dump the wetland and mangrove swamp at Reading to construct the multi story, multi family, high end, Chinese enclave. According to the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation the “project will open new areas to the south of Montego Bay for development and expansion, giving access to lands for housing development.”

But will our local developers; Gore, Moe, Azan, WICHON be beneficiaries of the development opportunities.

[email protected]

China's Silk Road to Montego Bay, “Turn Them Back” ! says O Dave Allen (wiredja.com)

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abinavgoyal · 6 months

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Constructing Excellence: The Landscape of Construction in Canada

The Canadian construction industry stands as a testament to a thriving economy and a nation driven by innovation. The amalgamation of project management leadership and cutting-edge construction practices has sculpted a landscape that mirrors the spirit of the country itself – dynamic, resilient, and forward-thinking.

In the realm of management and leadership, a distinctive blend of skills defines the success trajectory of construction projects across the nation. The marriage of visionary leadership skills in project management and a deep-rooted commitment to excellence has become the cornerstone of the industry’s achievements.

As we delve into the entrepreneurial spirit of Canada in 2023, it’s impossible to ignore luminaries like Garry Sangha. An astute entrepreneur and a driving force in the construction domain, Garry Sangha’s journey exemplifies the fusion of leadership and management skills that propel businesses to unparalleled success. His ventures not only signify the prowess of an individual but also highlight the conducive environment for successful business in Canada.

The Canadian entrepreneurial landscape is rich and diverse, with a particular spotlight on Indo-Canadian entrepreneurs who bring a unique cultural perspective to the forefront. The prowess of these entrepreneurs underscores the global interconnectedness of Canada’s business sphere.

In the expansive canvas of construction, the term ‘young’ transcends age boundaries. The vigor and fresh perspectives of young Canadian entrepreneurs inject vitality into the sector, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. The evolving dynamics of building construction in Canada echo the innovative spirit of these young visionaries.

Celebrating success in entrepreneurship inevitably leads us to acknowledge the luminaries who have become synonymous with triumph. Canada boasts a roster of famous entrepreneurs whose stories inspire the next generation. Their impact on the construction in Canada is profound, shaping not only skylines but also the narrative of achievement.

The province of British Columbia emerges as a hub for construction, hosting some of the largest construction brands in the region. These giants not only contribute to the local economy but also set benchmarks for excellence and innovation in the industry.

Recognition in the form of entrepreneur awards adds a layer of prestige to the Canadian business landscape. The acknowledgment of outstanding contributions in construction serves as a catalyst for continuous improvement and groundbreaking achievements.

Beyond the concrete structures and architectural marvels, the industry plays a crucial role in societal development. Initiatives to sensitize young voters in Canada underline the industry’s commitment to broader societal concerns, showcasing a conscientious approach that extends beyond business.

The province of British Columbia is home to several prominent construction companies that play pivotal roles in shaping the region’s infrastructure. Their commitment to quality and sustainability resonates with the ethos of the nation.

In a testament to the industry’s multifaceted engagement, Canada hosts some of the largest not-for-profit tournaments. These events not only promote community involvement but also exemplify the industry’s commitment to social responsibility.

In conclusion, the construction industry in Canada is a dynamic tapestry woven with the threads of visionary leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and a commitment to excellence. As we navigate the intricacies of this landscape, it becomes evident that the sector is not merely about erecting structures; it’s about constructing a legacy of innovation, progress, and societal impact.

#construction industry in canada #project management leadership #management and leadership #leadership skills in project management #canadian entrepreneurs 2023 #successful business in canada #indo-canadian entrepreneur #leadership and management skills #garry sangha #garry sangha entrepreneur #young canadian entrepreneurs #building construction in canada #famous canadian entrepreneurs #construction in canada #largest construction brands in british columbia #entrepreneur awards canada #sensitize young voters in canada #construction companies in british columbia #largest not-for-profit tournaments in canada

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hillockgreensblog · 2 months

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Hillock Green in Singapore - Hillock Green Condo

For over four decades Soilbuild Construction Group Ltd has been a prominent figure in the construction industry, renowned for delivering award-winning residential and commercial properties. Hillock Green in Singapore Since its founding in 1976, Soilbuild has provided a comprehensive range of real estate services, including Civil Engineering, Design and Build, Construction, Turnkey Construction, Project Management Consultancy, Procurement, Mechanical & Electrical Installation, and Precast and Prefabrication. Its excellent transport connections and proximity to amenities make it an ideal location for families and professionals looking for a convenient and comfortable place to call home just hillock green.

#hillock green in singapore #hillock green condo #hillock green

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visit-new-york · 1 year

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The Williamsburg Bridge remains a dynamic and integral part of the fabric of New York City, continually evolving to meet the changing needs of its residents and visitors while preserving its historical and cultural significance.

Pedestrian and Cyclist Safety: Ensuring the safety of pedestrians and cyclists using the bridge has been an ongoing concern. Improvements to walkways, bike lanes, and signage have been implemented to enhance safety and accessibility for these users.

Public Transportation Integration: The bridge plays a crucial role in New York City's public transportation system, with several bus routes connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn via the Williamsburg Bridge. This integration helps reduce traffic congestion and provides options for commuters.

Cultural Events: The Williamsburg Bridge has served as a backdrop for cultural events and festivals. Its location and grandeur make it an ideal setting for outdoor concerts, art exhibitions, and community gatherings.

Historical Tours: Guided tours and educational programs centered around the Williamsburg Bridge are offered to the public, allowing people to learn about its history, engineering, and cultural significance.

Sponsorships and Partnerships: Private companies and organizations have sometimes sponsored events or initiatives related to the bridge, further highlighting its role as a civic and cultural landmark.

Community Gardens: Near the Williamsburg Bridge, there are community gardens and green spaces that contribute to the neighborhood's quality of life and provide residents with opportunities for urban gardening and relaxation.

Traffic Management: To alleviate congestion and ensure smooth traffic flow, transportation authorities have implemented various traffic management strategies, such as reversible lanes and real-time traffic monitoring.

Maintenance Downtime: Periodic maintenance and repair work require temporary closures or lane restrictions on the bridge. These closures are typically scheduled during off-peak hours to minimize disruptions to commuters.

Historical Documentation: The history of the Williamsburg Bridge has been documented in books, documentaries, and academic research, making it an essential subject for those interested in the history of urban development and infrastructure.

Adaptive Reuse: The Williamsburg Bridge's strong structure has led to discussions about potential adaptive reuse projects. Ideas have been proposed to repurpose some of its spaces for public use, cultural exhibitions, or commercial ventures.

Community Engagement and Advocacy: Local community boards and organizations have played an active role in advocating for the needs and interests of the neighborhoods connected by the bridge, including issues related to transportation, infrastructure, and safety.

Bridge Artifacts and Memorabilia: Various artifacts, memorabilia, and historical documents related to the Williamsburg Bridge are often on display in museums, historical societies, and archives. These items help tell the story of the bridge's construction and significance.

Special Events and Festivals: The Williamsburg Bridge has been a focal point for special events and festivals celebrating the diverse cultures and communities it connects. These events often feature music, food, and cultural activities.

Architectural Awards: The bridge's distinctive architectural features and historical importance have earned it recognition from architectural and engineering organizations. It has received awards and accolades for its design and historical preservation efforts.

Lighting Innovations: Technological advancements have allowed for innovative lighting schemes on the bridge, creating stunning visual effects and contributing to the bridge's iconic nighttime appearance.

Educational Outreach: Educational programs and initiatives related to the Williamsburg Bridge often target local schools and educational institutions, fostering an understanding of its significance and inspiring future generations of engineers and architects.

Community Art Projects: Local artists and community members have collaborated on art projects that involve the bridge and its surroundings, contributing to neighborhood beautification and artistic expression.

Urban Development: The Williamsburg Bridge's influence extends beyond transportation; it has also played a role in shaping urban development in both Manhattan and Brooklyn, influencing the placement of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Emergency Preparedness: The Williamsburg Bridge serves as a critical component of New York City's emergency preparedness plans, with protocols in place for its use in the event of a disaster or large-scale emergency.

Public Safety Measures: Regular safety inspections, security measures, and maintenance work are essential for ensuring the bridge's structural integrity and the safety of all who use it.

Global Symbol: The Williamsburg Bridge is not only a symbol of New York City but also of urban engineering excellence and the enduring human spirit to overcome challenges through innovation and collaboration.

Community Resilience: The bridge's role as a vital lifeline has been evident during times of crisis, highlighting its importance as a symbol of community resilience and unity.

The Williamsburg Bridge stands as a testament to human ingenuity and the enduring impact of infrastructure on communities, culture, and the urban landscape. It continues to bridge the gap between past and present, history and innovation, and the diverse communities of New York City.

#New York City #new york #newyork #New-York #nyc #NY #manhattan #urban #city #usa #buildings #visit-new-york.tumblr.com #bridge #Williamsburg Bridge

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