#Tourism Development Authority
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(I don't usually break copyright for journalists, who deserve to make a living through their writing the same as other authors, but this paywalled article mentions a few native Hawaiian relief efforts that need funding)
Native Hawaiians organize aid for Maui fire victims as government lags
Reis Thebault, Washington Post [12Aug 2023]
LAHAINA, Hawaii — The boats kept coming. One by one, cruisers and catamarans eased toward the beach in Kahana, a small and tightknit neighborhood just north of Maui’s hardest-hit areas.
Each one was laden with supplies: generators, propane tanks, trash bags full of clothing and ready-to-eat meals. And each one was greeted by two dozen people, the first among them wading waist-deep into the ocean to retrieve provisions from the boat and pass them down the chain, which wound its way to shore.
[Hawaii utility faces scrutiny for not cutting power to reduce fire risks]
The entire operation buzzed with urgent efficiency. But this was not the National Guard, or the Federal Emergency Management Agency, nor state or local government. This was scores of residents, led mostly by native Hawaiians, who had battled immense grief and unreliable communications to coordinate a large-scale disaster relief effort serving everyone in need after Tuesday’s ruinous Maui fire.
And this, a parade of boats that brought desperate locals thousands of pounds of supplies, was one of many.
“There’s no government agency helping us — this is it,” said Jareth Lumlung, a native Hawaiian who helped arrange the de facto donation hub. “This is our home, our community.”
[Live updates on Hawaiian wildfires]
In the days since a ferocious wildfire decimated whole swaths of Maui, including the historic west island town of Lahaina, those who live here have said they’ve received little help from the county and state, small entities which are struggling to respond to an unprecedented calamity.
For people whose cultural traditions have been threatened by American colonization and the state’s embrace of tourism and development, government help was never expected. Instead, the community has relied on itself.
Many, native Hawaiians in particular, see the absence of visible official support as a continuation of long-standing frustrations and pain, which began with the destructive arrival of Europeans and lives on in struggles over water rights.
The displacement of native Hawaiians is a particularly acute concern now, as much of the island has been targeted for gentrification, driving up the costs of living and forcing many native Hawaiians to move to mainland cities like Las Vegas.
[After five hours in ocean, Maui fire survivor is ‘blessed to be alive’]
Government officials have said they were focused on putting out the flames, housing and feeding survivors in evacuation centers outside the burn zone, protecting damaged areas, clearing roads in and around the town and helping to restore essential utilities. Some of the aid is out of reach of survivors, however, because they lack transportation or working phones to alert them about services. In Lahaina, the private efforts have been more visible, survivors said.
Hawaii Gov. Josh Green (D) estimated that nearly all of Lahaina had been destroyed. But in Kahana, the town’s spirit remained completely alive.
“If you take away all Hawaiians, there’ll be no more Hawaii,” Lumlung said. “It’ll be just a place. This is what it’s all about right here. We’re all raised the same way; this is something that’s just naturally instilled. You don’t have to be asked to do these things.”
Residents gather at Napili Plaza in Lahaina, Hawaii, to connect to Starlink satellites to contact their loved ones on Friday. (Mengshin Lin for The Washington Post)
The supply boats began arriving on Wednesday, as first responders were still battling the blaze and recovering bodies amid burned-out homes and businesses. Two days later, they hadn’t slowed. On Friday, they began arriving early, and volunteers had tents set up to sort the goods: a pile of men’s pants here, a pyramid of diapers there and vast mounds of bottled water.
“We lost everything. We lost our town,” said Jerica Naki, whose home in Lahaina was destroyed. “That’s why we’re here.”
On this day, the volunteer boats largely came from neighboring islands, Oahu and Molokai, northwest of Maui in the Hawaiian archipelago, traveling far on choppy seas. Naki was helping sort donations and she described an emotional whirlwind, from escaping with nothing to seeing a staggering amount of volunteer support for those who have been displaced like her.
[These maps show where wildfires are burning in Hawaii]
“A lot of us are born and raised here,” Naki said, looking around as the chain of volunteers hauled in boxes of tinned sausage. “There’s a l xd ot of pride in Lahaina, so it hurts, a lot. But this is all we have here now, each other, and we’re making do.”
As the response has worn on, the greatest needs have shifted. There is now plenty of nonperishable food and bottled water. Generators, fuel and Starlink satellite internet systems would be most useful, volunteers say.
Sheryl Nakanelua knew instinctively where she needed to go when she fled her Lahaina home as flames spread. She made her way to Kahana and set up a tent across from Lumlung’s house, where she’ll stay until her family is let back into her subdivision, one of the few that was spared.
“This is our family place, it’s home,” she said of the Kahana neighborhood. “This is the best part to be at. It’s what’s keeping us positive.”
Other such spots have popped up. Napili Plaza, once a destination for groceries, ribs and tattoos, is now a donation drop-off center. And some 100 cars lined up for free gas near the town’s former railroad station. Coordinating the boats and other donation sites is a massive task that involves maddening games of phone tag in a place largely without cell service and requires a relentless dedication and extensive Rolodex.
Residents like Zane Schweitzer have both. Schweitzer, whose family has lived around Lahaina for generations, has spent nearly every hour of the last 48 working his walkie-talkie and phone, frantically arranging aid from around Maui, Hawaii and the mainland. Working with the Oahu-based youth nonprofit Na Kama Kai, he helped coordinate one of Friday’s largest deliveries.
Officials said most of Lahaina, the historic town in West Maui, was destroyed when hurricane winds pushed fires to the coast.
On the south side of Lahaina, in Olowalu, Eddy and Sam Garcia are transforming their groundbreaking sustainable farm into a shelter for those who have lost their homes. The married couple, who themselves have lost farmland and fruit crops worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, are setting up temporary housing, a massive solar power system and a satellite internet connection that they’ll open to anyone who needs it.
“In the immediate moment, people need shelter, they need food, they need water, they need a place to get on the internet so they can look for their loved ones,” said Eddy Garcia, who grew up in Lahaina. “We’re shifting all of our attention to trying to feed and house our neighbors.”
The Olowalu farm is uniquely well-prepared to handle this sort of disaster. Run by the Garcias’ nonprofit, Regenerative Education Centers, it was already operating off the grid, with its own power, plumbing and food. The nonprofit has launched a fundraiser to help pay for the fire effort, which will continue as long as there’s a need.
The property, even after being raked by the fire’s severe winds, is verdant and shaded by tall mango trees. On Friday, volunteers and staff readied the farm to fill any needs. They butchered and smoked a wild pig, set up new solar panels and scoured the internet for portable toilets. Eddy Garcia whirred with adrenaline, his satellite-connected cellphone ringing every few minutes with someone offering help.
For locals like him, helping his neighbors is not only about their survival, but about preserving the island’s identity and keeping it livable for those whose families have been here for generations.
“It’s not about these giant hotels on the beach and all the big companies, but trying to take care of local people,” he said. “This is not a visitor’s destination spot, this is the kingdom of Hawaii. That hit the heart of it in Lahaina. It hurts to even talk about it.”
His phone rang again and he stood up to leave.
“I’m like a ball of rubber bands right now,” he said, “and the only thing keeping me going is I got to organize these things.”
——
[More photos and links to the latest news in and after article]
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Let's start with our Birthday man Alexander D. aka Jester 🍂
Birthday: December 29
Lives in the city of Belgorod.
Likes regular black coffee without sugar.
Alexander doesn’t like being addressed as “Sasha” , prefers “Jester” or “Alexander”.
Contrary to rumors, he did not write a book.
Previously worked in the field of game development.
Screenwriter – his main job , additional and hobby.
Works with the same technical designer for more than 6 years .
Jester is a music lover
Alexander is about 40 years old - this information was provided by composer Dmitry, who has been working with him for many years.
Despite the fact that Alexander himself does not show himself, he does give hints :)
The city of Kharkov is very close to Alexander, but he has not been there for a long time due to the political situation.
He likes active tourism ; living in the forest for several days is not a problem
Favorite time of year is summer. But in summer he tries not to stray far from the air conditioner.
Artists like to work with the Jester , as he always gives very detailed descriptions.
Once upon a time, the Jester himself wrote haiku .
Photo from the group "Jester's Tent"
Alexander has a cat named Lisa.
He calls himself the Jester because his job is to entertain the public.
Alexander is not a public person and is very sensitive to personal boundaries.
If you visit his vk page, he likes to share with his audience his night mood music.
I'll post one author per day there's 11 other screenwriter.
I'll give my sources at the end.
Jester vk page 👇
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Chalk Mountain
+ a WiP introduction
(status: third draft)
genre(s): fantasy, action, au
tone(s): regional gothic, found family, prophesies, platonic love, lgbt+ protag, "magic" abilities
warning(s): blood, harsh family relations, death, cursing -- (will be editing to add more as i come across them)
tag: #wip: chalk mountain
"stay away from the bluebonnets," dixie's mother always said. "they know your secrets and will trick you with good smelling petals and a comfortable place to rest after a picnic; but eventually you will never get up, eventually you will be blue, floral, swaying in the hot wind, watching as people pass by until another sleepy bystander succumbs to take their last nap as the person they were. before they take them. before they take you."
(will be adding links to characters and more characters and some other stuff when they are ready; this will be reblogged when updated with anything. authors notes at the end!)
characters and descriptions! (to be edited)
Dixie Alvarez is the protagonist of this story. A heroine against her will, Dixie has a smart mouth and a bad habit of holding grudges; she never fit in anywhere and always managed to piss somebody off no matter where she was. A difficult relationship with her father and her mothers abandonment drives her to flee her home in search of a new, quiet, and peaceful life with people like her. Outcasts. So, she set off in her trashy green minivan to a town her mother used to tell her about in stories. Chalk Mountain. Curly, mid-length red hair, downturned brown eyes, freckles, (mostly) untamed eyebrows, 5'7". Evolved (unknown)
Emilio Baku is the side character, Dixie's best friend, and partner in crime. Ripped away from his home in Korea, Emilio developed a big heart that was always open to others after his adoptive parents took him in like it was nothing; he has now been in Chalk Mountain since he was 5 years old. Lovable teddy bear meets ruthless suppressed anger makes a man willing to do anything to protect what he loves. Short black hair that's always a little messy, deep dark brown eyes, faded burn scars cover his hands. 6'2". Evolved
Franklin and Maude are Emilio's adoptive parents and Dixie's guardians. Maude has been in Chalk Mountain since she was born. Her mother was a jailer before the town went bankrupt after a false meteorite claim that drained their tourism. Franklin came later, after he was found out as an Evolved and began to be hunted down. He took refuge in Chalk mountain 27 years ago and soon after met Maude. Maude: long, straight, gray hair, white eyes, smile lines, eye wrinkles, 7'6". Franklin: long gray hair, tall and slender figure, milky white eyes. 7'6". Both Evolved.
extra characters + descriptions (to be expanded)
The Oracle -> eons old but presents as around 30s/40s. vitiligo, blind with white irises, waist length wavy hair as black as the night sky, various markings and tattoos and scars. can only speak in prophet but can communicate in your dreams.
Marigold Alvarez -> Dixie's mother, very, very, VERY powerful woman. A force to be reckoned with, legends about her, and large popularity around Chalk Mountain. Marigold has been missing for over 11 years now, but Dixie hasn't seen her since before she herself was 12 years old. Short red bob, green eyes, freckles, permanent smirk on her face with smile lines. 5'9". Last known location: Chalk Mountain.
Walter Alvarez -> Dixie's father, loud, overbearing. One night after a screaming fight that Dixie overheard, her mother left in a tizzy. She watched her mom speed off in the car from her bedroom window, never to be seen or heard of again. Walter makes a point to never speak of Marigold and has tried painting her to be the villain ever since. Salt and pepper, short, gelled, curly hair, 5'8". Husky figure, brown eyes, grungy teeth.
authors note >
so excited to finally get this ball rolling and start sharing it with you as i figure my way through this story. i will eventually be sharing drafts as i get them written and will do snippets, short stories, moodboards, etc. based on this wip! i will announce when tag list is open (not enough content for me to want to make one yet) but for now enjoy this little info dump on my world i'm building:) also this story will be written with "proper" capital letters, i just enjoy making content lowercase! open to asks and tag games about this wip!!
this will be giving very much "mutants from x-men", very "don't trust anything beautiful". also there's dragons.
#i did this all on mobile so i hope it doesn't look insane#y'all are gonna think my magic building is fucking insane LMFAO#wip: chalk mountain#wip intro#wip introduction#my wip#writeblr#currently writing#writing#authors#i have loved queue since we were 18#writers on tumblr#literature#regional gothic#texas gothic#lgbt protag#found family#fantasy#currently reading
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Palestinian Farmer Discovers a Rare Byzantine Mosaic in Gaza
The mosaic, dating from between the 5th-7th centuries AD, was discovered by a local farmer whilst planting an olive tree. The significant discovery raises questions about the status of preservation efforts inside the besieged Palestinian enclave.
The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in the Gaza Strip announced on Friday "a major archeological finding"—the discovery of a stunning Byzantine mosaic. Hamas says it will issue an official statement providing additional details in the next few days.
The mosaic floor, dating from between the 5th-7th centuries, was discovered a few months ago inside the Bureij refugee camp in central Gaza, approximately 1km from the Israeli border.
Earlier today, the Associated Press shared photos of the site and reported that a local farmer uncovered the mosaic whilst planting an olive tree, when his spade hit a hard surface. The farmer and his son started digging. Three months later, they uncovered the mosaic.
Archeologists claim that this is one of the most significant findings ever discovered in the Gaza Strip. "These are the most stunning mosaic floors ever discovered in Gaza, in terms of the richness of the graphic representation and the complexity of the geometric layout. We have never seen a mosaic boasting such rich colors in Gaza before", says Rene Elter from the French School of Biblical and Archeological research in Jerusalem.
According to the photos, the mosaic features animal depictions, and appears to be well-preserved. A little damage is visible in some areas, caused by roots of olive trees planted at the site in previous years. The farmer who dug up the mosaic covered it with a large sheet and refuses to be identified before the official unveiling. In a chat with the Associated Press, he expressed his hope for some financial reward for his discovery.
The discovery of this archeological treasure brings to the fore the difficult and complex status of cultural heritage and preservation efforts in the Gaza Strip. A situation resulting from the continual conflict with Israel, and not helped by Hamas' own neglect of preservation efforts in some cases. Archeological artifacts in Gaza—one of the most densely populated areas in the world—are at risk due to budgetary considerations, development issues and a lack of sufficient local expertise and awareness. In addition, the occasional looting of artifacts by locals hardly helps the situation, and the destruction of sites is at times deliberately encouraged by the authorities.
In 2017. Hamas operatives completely destroyed significant portions of remains of the 4,500-year-old Bronze Age city of Tel Es-Sakan, to make way for new construction projects. As far as Israel is concerned, it also confiscated a large amount of artifacts from Gaza, during the years of its direct rule. One of the most prominent culprits was former Defense Minister and military chief Moshe Dayan.
The Gaza Strip was once a thriving and important crossroads and trade route, connecting the Levant with Africa and Asia. As a result, it has accumulated significant archeological treasures over the course of the last 5,000 years: from the Bronze age and times of the Caliphate, through to the Ottoman Empire and the days of British mandate in the 20th century.
Last June, a large ancient Roman necropolis (a burial site) was discovered in Gaza, dating from the 1st-2nd centuries AD. It was discovered by tractors in Jabalia, in northern Gaza, whilst digging foundations for concrete structures as part of a reconstruction project.
In 1999, the Saint Hilarion Monastery was discovered about ten kilometers south of Gaza city. The monastery is part of a sprawling 4.5 acres structure, built atop the alleged birthplace of Saint Hilarion, a Christian saint who lived in the area in the 4th century, considered to be a founding father of cenobism in the holy land. The website dedicated to the site features images of walls and foundations of two churches, a cemetery, bath houses, a baptism chamber and mosaic floors.
In 1996, another 5th century Byzantine church was discovered in Jabalia.
#Palestinian Farmer Discovers a Rare Byzantine Mosaic in Gaza#5th-7th centuries AD#archeology#archeolgst#mosaic#ancient mosaic#ancient artifacts#history#history news#ancient history#ancient culture#ancient civilizations
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The Narwhal just published a really thorough and easy-to-understand look at the ongoing selenium poisoning and land management issue of the Kootenai/Kootenay River. The article includes maps, graphs/charts, and photos of the landscape. The article also provides a good look at the conservation work of the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, and the Ktunaxa Nation; I’ve tried to excerpt those passages here, below.
Basically, the story is that industrial coal mines at Elk Valley near Fernie in interior British Columbia poison the Kootenai watershed, which includes land/water in Montana and Idaho. Everyone knows about the poisoning, but since the river crosses an international border and involves 2 different US states, government agencies can’t or won’t limit mining companies or fix the issue because of legal jurisdiction issues. The river flows through the globally-rare inland temperate rainforest region/biome, and the river system is home to the highly endangered, nearly-extinct land-locked variation of the Kootenai River white sturgeon. Management of the pollution across an international border has led to conflict between Indigenous communities, BC provincial, Montana/Idaho state, Canadian federal, and US federal agencies. The river is already imperiled by the existence of the Libby Dam, the drainage of wetlands, forest-clearing, and tourism/land-development from nearby Fernie and Spokane-Coeur d’Alene. The Kootenai Tribe of Idaho manages a fish hatchery to help native burbot and the white sturgeon.
For years, the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and the Ktunaxa Nation have tried to appeal to both Canadian federal and US federal authorities to ask for some kind of trans-boundary/international collaboration. In 2021, the Ktunaxa Nation asked BC and Canadian federal land managers to suspend all permitting processes for new coal mines in the region. Despite Indigenous resistance, Canada continues to accept proposals for new coal mines in the region.
All text and photos below are from the article.
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Scientists already know where the selenium is coming from: a string of enormous metallurgical coal mines in B.C.’s Elk Valley. Parties on all sides, including Teck Resources, which owns the mines, are keen to stem the flow of contamination. But efforts to address pollution soon run up against economic interests [...]. The mines are allowed to release selenium at levels well beyond what the province considers safe for aquatic life, and even as experts warn of a growing threat to fish and other aquatic life, regulators are weighing proposals for new coal mines in the valley. [...]
Pollution from the mines has become an increasingly contentious issue between Canada and the United States, where downstream ecosystems, already burdened by human development, are now feeling the added strain of selenium. The scope of the contamination is extensive. Even a few hundred kilometres downriver, there are fears that increasing selenium pollution threatens the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho’s decades-long effort to restore white sturgeon and burbot populations in the Kootenai River. “To see any of that work be reversed or effectively cancelled out would be a tragedy to our people and the nature we hold so dear to our hearts,” says Gary Aitken Jr., Kootenai Tribe of Idaho’s vice chair.
Journalists from The Narwhal traced the flow of selenium from the mines down the Fording River, along the Elk, into the Koocanusa reservoir and south across the border until it pours over Montana’s Libby Dam. From there we followed the Kootenai River, which rushes and gurgles before tumbling over the Kootenai Falls on its way to Idaho, where it meanders through farmlands on its way back north, crossing back into B.C. (where the spelling changes from Kootenai to Kootenay) before eventually merging with Kootenay Lake. At each stop, we found people deeply concerned about the threat selenium poses to fish in these rivers. [...]
The Koocanusa reservoir, a vast human-made lake spanning the international boundary, collects water from both the Kootenay and Elk Rivers. For years, a joint B.C.-Montana working group involving experts, representatives from Indigenous governments, Teck and multiple state and provincial government agencies [...]. The hope was that the B.C. and Montana governments would adopt a single selenium standard for Koocanusa. After years of work, Montana moved forward on its own. The state officially adopted the more stringent selenium standard for Koocanusa of 0.8 parts per billion in February 2021 after securing approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. But for months, it was “pretty much crickets from north of the border,” says Sexton, who has worked with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes on this issue for more than a decade. [...]
The Ktunaxa Nation Council, Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho are all part of the broader Ktunaxa Nation, whose traditional territory covers parts of the region known today as B.C., Alberta, Montana, Idaho and Washington State. While the impacts of selenium and other contaminants from the mines are a significant concern throughout the Kootenai River watershed, for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, Lake Koocanusa and the Kootenai River downstream of the Libby Dam, are a particular focus. [...]
Some 90 kilometres downriver, across the state line, the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho has pressing concerns about the threat selenium poses to endangered white sturgeon and burbot populations. These fish hold spiritual and cultural significance for the tribe, says Aitken Jr., Kootenai Tribe of Idaho vice-chair. [...]
The Kootenai Tribe of Idaho has been working for more than three decades to restore white sturgeon and almost 20 years to rebuild burbot populations, species that may have been wiped out long ago from the Kootenai River if not for the tribe’s conservation aquaculture program.
At its Twin Rivers Hatchery, near the confluence of the Moyie and Kootenai Rivers, tiny prehistoric-looking sturgeon swim slowly along the bottom of large, round tanks. [...] But neither sturgeon nor burbot are close to self-sustaining — the Tribe’s ultimate goal. [...] Eventually, Hoyle says, she hopes to see a site specific selenium standard established for the Kootenai River downstream of Libby Dam, one that’s more protective of the fish populations the tribe is working so hard to protect and rebuild. The challenge is that it’s governments north of the border that have authority over the source of the contamination — the coal mines back in Canada.
The Kootenai Tribe of Idaho, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and the Ktunaxa Nation, have for years called for this pollution issue to be referred to the International Joint Commission, a body created under the Boundary Waters Treaty signed by Canada and the U.S. in 1909. [...] The Kootenai Tribe of Idaho, Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and Ktunaxa Nation have sent repeated letters to federal government officials in Washington and Ottawa asking for the issue to be referred to the joint commission or for some other transboundary framework [...]. Neither B.C. Environment Minister Heyman nor the federal spokesperson would say whether their governments support calls for an International Joint Commission reference.
Last summer, the Ktunaxa Nation asked the B.C. and federal environment ministers to suspend all environmental assessments for new coal mines in the Elk Valley.
“We will no longer accept the ‘business as usual’ approach to coal mining,” the Ktunaxa Nation Council’s letter says. “Ktunaxa laws and customs require us to act as stewards of our our ʔamak ȼ wuʔu [land and water] [...].”
“Unfortunately, a legacy of major coal mines in Qukin ʔamakʔis, approved without our consent, now threatens our ability to uphold our responsibilities as Indigenous title holders and caretakers of this area within ʔamakʔis Ktunaxa.” [...]
Despite those efforts, selenium continues to leach from the piles of waste rock that have built up over more than a century of mining. It continues to flow from the Fording River, into the Elk and south through Koocanusa. It pours over the Libby Dam into the Kootenai River, where it cuts through mountain valleys and rushes over the Kootenai Falls. It meanders through canyons and farmland in Idaho on its way back to the B.C., where it empties into Kootenay Lake — far west of where it first drains into the rivers of the Elk Valley.
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Text by: Ainslie Cruickshank. All photos by: Jesse Winter. Text and photos from: “How pollution from Canadian coal mines threatens the fish at the heart of communities from B.C. to Idaho.” The Narwhal. 23 April 2022.
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Apes in the Glades: a divisive Florida mystery
OCHOPEE – The drone of cicadas, the flat river of grass and gators lurking by the roadside, only their eyes visible above the black water: this is the Florida Everglades. It is a region that has long been imbued with fascinating history both haunting and beautiful, from being the location of marijuana smuggling routes (or as the locals call it, square grouper) and a hiding spot for killers on the run. But deep in the swamp lurks another source of intrigue: the skunk ape.
Also known as Florida’s Bigfoot, the hairy biped has been a lifelong pursuit of Ochopee, Florida local David Shealy. He describes the skunk ape as being between six and seven feet tall, covered in hair and incredibly smelly. Since spotting the creature near his home at the northern end of Everglades National Park at age 10, Shealy has made it his life’s work to find this elusive character. He has reported other sightings since then, once in 1998 and most famously in 2001 when he recorded video footage of the creature trudging through the swamp, which is available on YouTube.
Shealy is the founder of the Skunk Ape Research Headquarters in Ochopee. It’s one of several of Tamiami Trail’s roadside attractions (including the world’s smallest post office) and includes a campground, collection of live pythons and alligators, a gift shop and plans to expand. The building also houses Shealy’s two casts of skunk ape tracks. In 2000 he even applied for a grant from the Collier County Tourism Development Council, which was denied.
Sightings of skunk apes have been reported since the 1950s and ‘60s. One discrepancy, however, is that the native Seminole and Miccosukee tribes have a legend of the skunk ape in their culture, too. For clarity, the tribes are separate politically but not culturally, according to the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Tara Backhouse, the collections manager at the Seminole Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum said in an email that, “there’s definitely not anything written down, and I don’t believe it’s a real Seminole legend in any way.” Shealy says something different: “That’s not the case at all and I grew up here with the Indians.” Indeed, Shealy's property is not far from the Miccosukee reservation. He recounted a story that Miccosukee tribal member Michael Frank told him about a time during the Seminole Wars. “At that time an Indian scout left the village and went into the Everglades, and he returned with a story that he had seen a group of men that were very large and covered with hair.” Shealy says there are as many as nine skunk apes in the Everglades. According to him they smell because they spend time in alligator holes, and they make a low bassy cooing growl. When he performs the skunk ape call, it sounds a lot like an alligator bellow. Shealy has a response for that, too. “I have big alligators that roar every time the garbage truck comes in so I know gators really good and it's not a gator.”
So did Shealy make it all up? Some locals think so. The picture that many residents of the nearby Everglades City paint is that Shealy simply wanted to make more money. Some call him a fraud, some call him a scientific researcher. When I met him, though, the first thing I understood about David Shealy is that he is a storyteller. He has many tales of encounters with Florida's bigfoot, some his and some from other people, but all of them captivating. He spoke of a time when he collected a hair sample from one encounter but the next day two unidentified federal agents, “The men in black” as Shealy calls them, who came to his home and confiscated the sample, never to be heard from again. In another story a woman named Mary Billie was chopping down palm fronds for a chickee hut. As she was hacking at the fronds one fell away and she was face to face with the skunk ape.
Despite the chorus of skunk ape deniers, there are others who support Shealy’s work. Brad Bertelli is the author of The Florida Keys Skunk Ape Files, which is a work of fiction based on real reports of encounters with the cryptid. Included in the book is a real clipping from an 1874 newspaper that reads, “Key West has a ghost covered with hair and about the size of a horse.” Bertelli says, “It reads to me like a typical skunk ape or bigfoot sighting.” And one of the earliest reports of such. Another story that inspired his book is a family on Key Largo who witnessed a smelly hairy creature on their property, which frightened them so much they moved out of the Keys entirely.
Both skunk ape aficionados have responses for the nonbelievers. Shealy says, “It’s not a good attitude to have because what they are doing is possibly putting a threatened or endangered species at risk and that they really need to do their research, possibly go out on their own. Just discounting it is doing an injustice to our native wildlife.” For Bertelli, “A lot of it has to do with not being willing to engage with something that is unknown. There are things out there bigger than ourselves. You have to keep an open mind.”
Fact or fiction, stories like these captivate people’s imaginations, and have for a long time. Like Bertelli says, “When you look back these bigfoot creatures have been sighted on six of the seven continents. When we go back hundreds and hundreds of years, every culture has their story about them.” So keep an open mind, and keep an eye out next time you’re in the Everglades.
#skunk ape#florida skunk ape#cryptozoology#florida myths#ochopee#skunk ape headquarters#david shealy
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Ngành Du lịch Việt Nam tăng vọt với sự phục hồi đáng chú ý sau đại dịch
The resurgence of Vietnam's tourism sector is a vibrant narrative of resilience and renewal. As the world emerges from the shadow of the pandemic, Vietnam has witnessed a remarkable recovery, with its tourism industry playing a starring role in the nation's economic upturn. From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the serene waters of Ha Long Bay, the country's vast array of cultural and natural wonders are once again open for exploration, offering a beacon of hope and a wealth of opportunities for travelers and locals alike.
Rediscovering the Beauty of Vietnam: A Surge in Visitor Numbers
The Return of the Global Traveler
As international borders reopen and confidence in travel returns, Vietnam has seen a significant increase in visitor numbers. The country's diverse landscapes, rich history, and warm hospitality are drawing tourists back in droves. Data from Vietnam's tourism authorities show an upward trend in arrivals, with figures rivaling and, in some cases, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
A Focus on Sustainable and Responsible Tourism
In the wake of the tourism sector's revival, there has been a concerted effort to promote sustainable and responsible travel practices. Vietnam is actively enhancing its eco-tourism initiatives, ensuring that the beauty of its destinations remains unspoiled for future generations. From eco-friendly hotels to tours that support local communities, the emphasis is on creating a tourism industry that is both environmentally and socially conscious.
Innovations and Upgrades: Enhancing the Tourist Experience
Infrastructure Improvements for a Seamless Journey
Vietnam's commitment to bolstering its tourism appeal extends to significant infrastructure developments. Upgraded airports, improved transportation links, and enhanced digital connectivity are making travel within the country smoother and more accessible than ever before. These advancements are not only improving the tourist experience but also boosting the sector's contribution to the national economy.
Digital Transformation in the Tourism Industry
A key element of Vietnam's tourism resurgence has been the embrace of digital technology. From virtual tours to online booking platforms, digital innovations are providing travelers with the tools to plan and enjoy their visits with ease. This digital transformation is also enabling the industry to reach a wider audience, tapping into new markets and demographics.
The Road Ahead: A Bright Future for Vietnam's Tourism
Embracing New Markets and Opportunities
As Vietnam looks to the future, the tourism sector is set to expand its horizons. With a strategic focus on untapped markets and an increase in international collaborations, the country is poised to establish itself as a premier destination in Southeast Asia. The introduction of unique travel experiences, cultural festivals, and culinary tours is aimed at showcasing the country's rich heritage and contemporary dynamism to the world.
A Call to Discover Vietnam's Charm
The revival of Vietnam's tourism industry is a story of triumph over adversity. As the country opens its arms to the world once again, it extends an invitation to travelers to rediscover its enchanting landscapes, bustling cities, and tranquil retreats. With its tourism sector set on a path of sustainable growth, Vietnam is not just a destination to visit but a destination to experience, remember, and revisit.
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SLAP IN THE FACE - MAUI SET TO REOPEN FOR TOURISM - RESIDENTS OUTRAGED
ABCNews.Go.com - September 19, 2023
West Maui, an area devastated by wildfires that ravaged the historic town of Lahaina less than two months ago, is set to reopen for visitors on Oct. 8. Lahaina will remain fully closed to the public until further notice, according to the Hawaiian Tourism Authority.
The decision to open up for tourism has prompted outrage from some residents, many of whom remain displaced and have yet to pick up the pieces of their destroyed homes.
Jeremy Delos Reyes, one of the roughly 7,500 displaced residents, is living with his family at a nearby hotel and is angered to learn that the state is planning for the return of visitors to the disaster area. Reyes has lived on Maui for 48 years.
"Why am I stuck at a resort right now every day, waking up wondering if me and my wife and my family are going to get kicked out because tourists need a place to stay?" he told ABC News in an interview.
He continued: "Why do these displaced people that lost family members -- lost everything they own -- have to go to work now and put on a smile to serve cocktails, to bring towels, to clean their room? How would that make you feel if you lost your family and everything you own?”
Oct. 8 will mark two months since the wildfires began their destruction.
Displaced residents say they have yet to revisit their old homes, as they await clearance from federal and local agencies to clear the areas as safe from hazardous materials and poor air quality. The disaster area is restricted to authorized personnel only, and many areas still don't have access to clean, safe drinking water.
Many children from the region are still being transported to schools outside of West Maui, with expectations that schools will start up around Oct. 13 if they prove to be safe for return.
Jordan Ruidas, a resident and community organizer, has created a petition to delay the reopening of West Maui that has gathered more than 5,000 signatures. Tiny.One/DelayTheReopening
"With it being exactly two months after the tragic fires … it seemed like a slap in the face honestly," she told ABC News in an interview.
Ruidas said she and others know that West Maui will eventually need to open, "but what's concerning to me is our government officials have not hit certain benchmarks that a lot of us working class, Lahaina locals feel like we need before we can even start to get back to some kind of normalcy.”
However, some business owners in the region are anxious for economic support.
Noah Drazkowski, who was born and raised in West Maui and owns a local business, said his feelings are mixed about the reopening. The majority of his income comes from tourism, he says. The impact of the fire has compounded on top of the economic hit the COVID-19 pandemic had on his business.
"Being born and raised here, it's difficult to want to reopen and that tourism is going to come back in," Drazkowski said. "But as a business owner, I know that we need it. I know that our families need it. You know, we need to be able to get back to some kind of normalcy to help push forward.”
Tourism accounts for a large chunk of Maui County's economy. According to the Maui Economic Development Board, approximately 70% of every dollar is generated directly or indirectly by the visitor industry. The board calls tourism the “economic engine” for the County of Maui.
Some residents don't want it to be this way, arguing that the annexation of the Hawaiian Islands has impacted the ownership of land and water for Native Hawaiians. Maui has been under water restrictions in recent years amid an ongoing drought and has been facing a housing crisis, as costs skyrocket.
As residents continue to grieve, some fear the devastation will be exploited by visitors gawking at the tragedy.
Those who do decide to come when West Maui opens, residents ask that they be respectful of the grieving city. Drazkowski recommends volunteering in the recovery efforts while on vacation if possible.
"We went through a crisis. We went through a natural disaster. A lot of families are still grieving and still processing and they don't really want to see, they don't really want to see anyone on the side of the road trying to take pictures of what happened to their home," said Drazkowski.
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Ultimate Guide to Starting a Business in Dubai: Everything You Need to Know
Understanding Dubai’s Business Landscape
Dubai has a diverse and dynamic business landscape, catering to various industries such as trade, tourism, finance, real estate, and technology. It is essential to research and understand the market demand, competition, and potential opportunities for your proposed business idea.
Choosing the Right Business Structure
Dubai offers several business structures, including sole proprietorship, limited liability company (LLC), branch office, and free zone company. Each structure has its own advantages, requirements, and regulations. Selecting the appropriate structure is crucial for your business’s growth, liability protection, and tax implications.
Obtaining the Necessary Licenses and Approvals
Starting business in Dubai, UAE requires obtaining the necessary licenses and approvals from the relevant authorities. These may include trade licenses, commercial licenses, and other industry-specific permits. The process can be complex, so it’s advisable to seek guidance from legal experts or business consultants.
Free Zones: A Viable Option for Foreign Investors
Dubai’s free zones offer attractive incentives for foreign investors, such as 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and streamlined business setup processes. Popular free zones include Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC), Dubai Internet City (DIC), and Dubai Design District (D3).
Finding the Right Location and Office Space
Choosing the right location and office space is essential for your business’s success. Dubai offers a range of options, from modern office towers to shared workspaces and free zone facilities. Consider factors such as accessibility, infrastructure, and proximity to your target market.
Hiring and Managing a Team
Building a strong and talented team is crucial for your business’s growth. Dubai’s diverse workforce offers a pool of skilled professionals from various backgrounds. However, it’s important to understand the local labor laws, visa requirements, and cultural nuances when hiring and managing employees.
Banking and Financial Considerations
Establishing a business banking account, securing funding, and managing finances are critical aspects of start business in Dubai. Research the local banking system, explore financing options (such as bank loans, investors, or government initiatives), and develop a solid financial plan.
Marketing and Promoting Your Business
With a competitive business environment, effective marketing and promotion strategies are essential for your business’s success. Leverage digital marketing, networking events, tradeshows, and other channels to reach your target audience and build brand awareness.
Complying with Legal and Regulatory Requirements
Dubai has a comprehensive legal and regulatory framework governing business operations. Familiarize yourself with the relevant laws, regulations, and compliance requirements to ensure your business operates legally and avoids penalties or fines.
Seeking Professional Assistance
Starting business in UAE can be a complex process, especially for those new to the region. Consider seeking professional assistance from business consultants, lawyers, or accountants to navigate the process smoothly and avoid costly mistakes.
Start business in Dubai can be a rewarding and lucrative endeavor, but it requires careful planning, understanding of the local business landscape, and adherence to the relevant laws and regulations. By following this ultimate guide and seeking professional advice when needed, you can increase your chances of success in this dynamic and thriving business hub.
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One day last September, a curious email arrived in Chris Hables Gray’s inbox. An author and self-described anarchist, feminist, and revolutionary, Gray fits right into Santa Cruz, Calif., where he lives. He’s written extensively about genetic engineering and the inevitable rise of cyborgs, attending protests in between for causes such as Black Lives Matter.
While Gray had taken some consulting gigs over the years, he’d never received an offer like this one. The first shock was the money: significantly more than he’d earned from all but one of his books. The second was the task: researching the aesthetics of seminal works of science fiction such as Blade Runner. The biggest surprise, however, was the ultimate client: Mohammed bin Salman, the 36-year-old crown prince of Saudi Arabia.
MBS, as he’s known abroad, was in the early stages of one of the largest and most difficult construction projects in history, which involves turning an expanse of desert the size of Belgium into a high-tech city-region called Neom. Starting with a budget of $500 billion, MBS bills Neom as a showpiece that will transform Saudi Arabia’s economy and serve as a testbed for technologies that could revolutionize daily life. And as Gray’s proposed assignment suggested, the crown prince’s vision bears little resemblance to the cities of today. Intrigued, Gray took the job. “If I can be honest with how I see the world, I’ll pretty much put my work out to anyone,” he says.
[...]
Many staffers seem to have genuinely bought into that message. Jan Paterson, a British-Canadian who heads planning for Neom’s “sports sector,” says she wants her grandchildren to grow up in the city, which she hopes will be the most physically active urban center in the world. Three years in, she’s one of the longest-serving employees. “I joined because, in my working career, no one has ever said, ‘Do you fancy setting up a semi-autonomous state using your passion as a tool for positive social change?’ ” Paterson explains. “It’s as simple as that.” Her eyes light up as she describes an ideal day in the Neom of the future. Imagine a sixth grader, she says. When he wakes up, his home will scan his metabolism. Because he had too much sugar the night before, the refrigerator will suggest porridge instead of the granola bar he wanted. Outside he’ll find a swim lane instead of a bus stop. Carrying a waterproof backpack, he’ll breaststroke the whole way to school. Paterson actually means this; Neom says it’s considering an idea for canals filled with swimmable water, creating a novel aquatic commuting option. If all goes well, she says, residents can expect an extra 10 years of “healthy life expectancy.”
[...]
Gray, the Santa Cruz author, was hired to help conceive a high-end tourism zone called the Gulf of Aqaba, which internal documents say will feature luxurious homes, marinas, nightclubs, and a “destination boarding school.” MBS told its designers that he liked the aesthetic of “cyberpunk,” a sci-fi subgenre that typically depicts a dark, tech-infused future with a seedy underworld—think William Gibson’s novel Neuromancer or the Keanu Reeves vehicle Johnny Mnemonic (also based on a book by Gibson). “I was a little surprised to hear that the prince was very interested in science fiction, but many people are, of all sorts of political persuasions,” Gray says. He and a team of other consultants were soon working long hours to research the aesthetics and implied culture of cyberpunk’s many iterations, which fed into a taxonomy of science fiction atmospheres that Neom employees were developing.
Building a cyber-feudal corporate omni-surveillance hellzone, we call this act “The Anarchists“
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Space Tech: Private Ventures and Mars Exploration
Space Tech
Beyond intrepid exploration, space technology has advanced to address pressing issues on Earth. It is becoming more and more essential to the effective operation of contemporary societies and their economic growth. Space has the potential to directly affect billions of people’s lives and open up large-scale, highly impactful solutions.
A broad term for satellites, space stations, ground stations, tracking and monitoring centers, downstream analytics and artificial intelligence, software, and other technologies, SpaceTech offers innovative ways to solve global concerns. Satellites increase communication, navigation, and earth observation capacity at low cost even in remote locations. Satellite-based earth observation data is vital, accurate, and reliable for data-driven decision-making by businesses and governments.
The underserved and otherwise unprofitable regions can benefit from high-speed connectivity thanks to the satellites. The application of action plans for intelligent agriculture, resource management (land and water), infrastructure development (urban and rural), climate and weather monitoring, environmental protection (including reducing the risk of disaster), and other purposes can all benefit from the use of satellite data.
Aerospace Innovation
The space industry is predicted to increase in value from USD 360 billion in 2018 to USD 558 billion by 2026 and roughly USD 1 trillion by 2040. Even though the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is one of the world’s top space agencies and is working on projects like the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (NavIC) and the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM), India currently only makes up 2%, or USD 7 Bn, of this market value.
One reason could be that the private sector’s contribution to the Indian space industry has primarily consisted of ISRO subcontracting, with ISRO historically handling the crucial value addition activities internally. Because of this, Indian private companies have lagged behind other world leaders in SpaceTech in terms of end-to-end capabilities.
The publication of SpaceCom Policy 2020, Space RS Policy 2020, Geospatial Policy 2021, and other policies, along with the creation of organizations like NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL) and the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN–SPACe), have created a national push to expedite the private sector’s involvement in the Indian space area. The Department of Space is also working on a comprehensive Space Act and other policies, including launch vehicle and space exploration policies.
Because of our natural curiosity and desire to understand the universe, space travel has long fascinated people.
Recently, private enterprise and international cooperation have transformed space exploration.
This article will explore the changing face of space exploration and emphasize the importance of international collaboration and private industry.
New Space Technologies
Pioneers of Personal Space Travel
NASA, Roscosmos, and ESA were the only government space agencies allowed to explore space. However, private companies leading space innovation changed everything:
SpaceX since 2002 has resupplied the ISS, developed reusable rocket technology, and prepared to colonize Mars.
Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin offers professional and recreational suborbital and orbital spaceflight.
Rick Branson’s suborbital space tourism company, Virgin Galactic.
Innovating, competing, and seeking commercial opportunities beyond Earth are redefining space exploration in private space ventures.
Space Exploration Companies
International Space Cooperation
Space exploration requires international cooperation even as private businesses grow:
The Earth-orbiting International Space Station (ISS) is a global collaboration marvel. European, Japanese, Canadian, Russian, and US space agencies participate.
Mars exploration: NASA, ESA, and others work on Curiosity and Mars Sample Return.
The Artemis Accords outlines global cooperation on the Moon and beyond, inviting international partners to lunar exploration.
Global Collaboration and Private Enterprises Benefits
Space exploration benefits from private sector involvement and international cooperation in a number of ways.
Innovation: By bringing in competition and innovation, private endeavors lower costs and advance technology.
Commercialization: Businesses worldwide can take advantage of commercial endeavors to expand their satellite deployment, space tourism, and resource exploitation capabilities.
Shared Resources: Working together, nations can pool resources, exchange knowledge, and take on challenging projects.
Scientific Discovery: Across national boundaries, international cooperation increases the possibility of scientific discovery and exploration.
Difficulties and Things to Think About
Although private and international partnerships present notable benefits, they also present certain challenges.
Regulation: To address new challenges, the framework governing international cooperation and private space endeavors needs to change.
Resource Management: A complex ethical and legal challenge is the responsible use of space resources, such as lunar mining.
Space Debris: Coordinated actions ought to tackle the expanding problem of space debris and environmentally friendly space operations.
Space Travel Prospects
Future space exploration could lead to asteroid mining, planet colonization, and scientific breakthroughs.
Space exploration is entering a new era as private companies and multinational partnerships change the space environment.
Space exploration is more accessible, sustainable, and transformative than ever thanks to private innovation and international collaboration. It shows our willingness to push the limits and our enduring spirit of exploration.
Mars Rover
What is Mars Rover?
A robotic vehicle that investigates the surface of Mars is called a rover. Rovers are long-range, remotely controlled vehicles that gather data and take images while traveling great distances. They have found evidence of water, ancient life, and possible resources on Mars, among many other significant discoveries.
Six Mars rovers have been successful so far:
In 1997, Sojourner became the first rover to set foot on Mars. During 83 days, it investigated the Ares Vallis region.
The twin rovers Spirit (2004) and Opportunity (2004) touched down on Mars in 2004. For many years, they investigated the Gusev Crater and Meridiani Planum, respectively. Opportunity stopped operating in 2018 and Spirit became stuck in 2010.
Gale Crater is presently being explored by Curiosity (2012). It has found evidence of ancient lakes and rivers, among many other significant discoveries.
The Jezero Crater region is being explored in Perseverance (2021). In addition to gathering samples of rock and regolith broken rock and soil for potential return to Earth, it is searching for indications of prehistoric life.
The first Chinese rover to set foot on Mars is Zhurong (2021). It is investigating the area of Utopia Planitia.
An essential component of our Mars exploration are the Mars rovers. They have made significant contributions to our understanding of the Red Planet’s potential for habitability.
Read more on Govindhtech.com
#Space Tech#MarsExploration#Ventures#SpaceTech#satellites#AI#Aerospace#NASA#technews#technology#govindhtech
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10 June 2023: Crown Prince Hussein, the Regent, chaired a follow-up meeting at the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) to review progress in implementing the Aqaba strategic plan.
The Regent listened to a briefing by ASEZA Chief Commissioner Nayef Al Fayez on priorities in the implementation of initiatives, development projects, and tourism activities in the city. (Source: Petra)
Fayez said ASEZA has prepared a plan to activate key focus sectors in Aqaba’s strategy on the medium and long terms, adding that the authority has completed goals in investment promotion and automating services to streamline procedures for visitors and investors.
He added that the authority has activated employment and technical training programmes to build the capacities of targeted groups, noting also work on updating Aqaba’s masterplan.
The chief commissioner said work is underway on the initial plans to build the Aqaba aquarium, and to continue the process of regulating diving centres and the city’s transportation system.
Crown Prince Al Hussein listened to additional briefings from officials on the implementation of the strategic plan.
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National Trails Day
The outdoors are calling out to us, telling us this is the perfect time for a hike — it is National Trails Day after all, which is celebrated only on the first Saturday in June of each year, falling on June 4 this year. Organized by the American Hiking Society, this event aims to bring together all trail enthusiasts, young and old, while honoring those who help maintain and preserve hiking trails for everyone to enjoy.
History of National Trails Day
The history of National Trails Day stretches back almost 50 years. Back then, there were no government-mandated trails for walking and other leisure activities. This changed when President Lyndon B. Johnson made a law, which established trails that people could use for recreation (and tourism too). This system saw much change over the years, with local authorities and organizations adding to the network of trails. With each new organization dedicated to hiking and outdoor activities, more and more incentives to expand the existing trails became available to people.
Until now, private entities have been expanding on the governmental law, but soon, a presidential task force concluded that more was needed to be done to expand the trails and safeguard the environment. This report tasked federal authorities with providing funds to local authorities and officials to help them develop and maintain pathways in their regions. The American Hiking Society, which by then was a big name in the world of hiking, decided it needed to devise a scheme to further incentivize people to take up volunteering and activities to maintain and enjoy the country’s hiking trails, and thus, they launched National Trails Day, which has been running ever since.
National Trails Day timeline
October 2, 1968 Trails Act Becomes a Law
President Lyndon B. Johnson establishes an official network of trails across America that can be used for recreation and tourism.
October 13, 1976 The American Hiking Society is Born
An official hiking organization is created, which begins hosting meetings and thinking up new initiatives to increase interest in hiking.
January 28, 1985 A Review of Outdoor Recreation Services
President Ronald Reagan signs an executive order, the Presidential Commission on Outdoor Recreation Resources Review, to conduct a thorough review of America's outdoor recreation services.
January 28, 1987 A Call for More Commitment
The Presidential Commission on Outdoor Recreation Resources Review, now called the President’s Commission on Americans Outdoors, calls for more outdoor commitment from the government for protection and funding.
1988 National Trails Agenda Project
A cooperative venture is undertaken between the National Park Service and American Trails to look at trail-based issues and to provide recommendations that satisfy America's need for trails.
1991 An Idea Takes Root
The American Hiking Society comes up with a program to highlight the importance of trails and dubs it 'National Trails Day.'
1993 First National Trails Day Comes into Being!
The American Hiking Society launches the first National Trails Day, with hundreds of organizations participating — this day has been celebrated ever since.
How To Celebrate National Trails Day
Participate in special events
Do more than hike
Show appreciation to volunteers
Throughout the U.S., the American Hiking Society branches and various private organizations host multiple events and activities to celebrate hiking and promote awareness about the trails you can use. So grab a friend (two- or four-legged) and set out on a little hike around your local trail.
Hiking trails are for more than simply hiking. These trails offer plenty of recreational opportunities for those who don’t like hiking. They also offer excellent opportunities for birdwatching and activities like canoeing or paddle trips, and, of course, most trails can be used for biking as well.
These pristine trails and pathways have been maintained by a group of volunteers. So let’s take a moment to appreciate their efforts. You can even celebrate these efforts by sharing your appreciation on social media. You would not only be honoring these volunteers but you would also be building interest in hiking too! Another way to show your appreciation would be to become a volunteer yourself. Check out the Appalachian Trail Conservatory or other organizations just like it that are responsible for maintaining hiking trails and find out if there is anything you can do to help.
Fun Facts About National Trails Day
The 20th-anniversary rush!
There are so many trails!
There’s one standout trail
Buying a house? Look for a trail
People still love to hike
A whopping 157,000 people participated in the 20th Annual National Trails Day events on June 2, 2012, held across the U.S.
America boasts around 200,000 miles of trails all over the country.
The Appalachian National Scenic Trail — commonly called the Appalachian Trail or A.T. — receives about two million visits each year.
According to the American Hiking Society, in 2008, prospective home buyers looked for trial availability while buying houses.
The National Survey on Recreation and the Environment (NSRE) trends in 2012 showed participation rates have increased in the first decade of the 21st century.
Why We Love National Trails Day
We get to explore nature
Hiking (and outdoorsy activities) are healthy
It is a great bonding activity
National Trails Day is a great big celebration of the outdoors. In a time when all most of us usually see is a giant corporate jungle, hiking is a wonderful and refreshing pastime for us. We get to visit places where nature still reigns supreme, which is a brilliant way to spend our time.
Going on a quick (or long) hike instantly gets your blood pumping. Even if you are not into hiking as an activity, outdoor aficionados can enjoy many more activities in areas with hiking trails, each of which have their own health benefits. Plus, being in nature is a giant stress buster and good for the soul. If this isn’t enough to convince you, spending time outdoors and in nature is a known aid for non-clinical depression and a great way to restore mental- and physical faculties.
These trails are truly for everyone. It offers young children a place to safely run around outside, a breath of fresh air for anyone who needs it, and a chance for the elderly to admire some wildflowers... There is no competition here, no apps or distractions. It’s just you, your loved ones, and, on some trails, your pets too. Happy bonding!
Source
#Yosemite National Park#Earthquake Fault#Mammoth Lakes#Utah#California#Musket Shot Springs Scenic Overlook#Arches National Park#travel#vacation#Canyonlands National Park#original photography#summer 2022#landmark#tourist attraction#National Trails Day#First Saturday in June#3 June 2023#grass#flora#nature#blue sky#clouds#NationalTrailsDay#hiking
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English culture guide map
English culture guide map
English culture guide map, a quick reference navigation guide of this blog, the world of English, to give the visitors a rapid view of the different contents.
English Culture blog summary pages | The World of English (english-culture.com) -- Advertising & Media -- Anecdotes & Quotes -- Arts and Crafts -- Blogs and bloggers -- Carl William Brown -- Celebrities & Gossip -- Copyright & Privacy -- Daimon Club -- E-books Promotion -- Education first -- Entertainment -- Essays with Quotes -- Facebook & Twitter -- Finance & Trading -- Fashion & Life Style -- Fort Attack Project -- Gastronomy & Food -- Grammar and Tests -- Health & Wellness -- Humor & Jokes -- Information News -- Knowledge & Culture -- Language & Grammar -- Literature & Life -- Marketing & SEO -- Music & Dancing -- News & Events -- Philosophy -- Photo Galleries -- Poetry & Poets -- Proverbs & Sayings -- Quotes by Authors -- Quotes by Arguments -- Reading & Writing -- Science World -- Sponsors & Partners -- Stupidity Struggle -- Technology -- Tourism & Travel -- Thoughts & Opinions -- Video Galleries -- Visual Quotes -- World of English
https://www.english-culture.com/the-world-of-english/ The World of English is a website dedicated to exploring the language, culture, varieties, and future of English. It provides information on the history of English, its influence on other languages, its use in different fields, and its status as an international language. It also provides resources for learning, practicing, and improving English, as well as advice on using the internet and marketing strategies.
https://www.english-culture.com/entertainment/ Entertainment is a form of activity that holds the attention and interest of an audience or gives pleasure and delight. It can be an idea or a task, but is more likely to be one of the activities or events that have developed over thousands of years specifically for the purpose of keeping an audience’s attention. "What masque? What music? How shall we beguile the lazy time, if not with some delight?" William Shakespeare
https://www.english-culture.com/web-software-guide/ Web software guide links. This page contains a complete collection of links to the most useful software online, both old, new and future, with many AI applications and tools for every purpose, use and enjoyment.
Video shorts quotes
https://www.english-culture.com/photo-galleries/ Great photo links to the most famous and useful website that offer free images. Photo Galleries by English-culture on Instagram, pictures, photographs, images and quotes by the Daimon Club Crew, Fort Attack and Carl William Brown founder of The world of English and Aforismi Celebri. The image of life is but the negative of that photograph that will only be developed by death. Carl William Brown
https://www.english-culture.com/video-shorts-quotes/ Video shorts quotes, a post where you can find video shorts of various character also created with AI reciting various quotes and aphorisms by Carl William Brown. The end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time. Thomas Stearns Eliot ~ We are all born ignorant, but one must work hard to remain stupid. Benjamin Franklin ~ The most intelligent recedes. The world domination of stupidity is based on this sad truth.
https://www.english-culture.com/quotes-world/ Quotes World is a website that provides quotes and aphorisms from famous authors, philosophers, and other influential people. It also provides information on the history and meaning of aphorisms, as well as advice on how to choose the best quotes and aphorisms. Quotes World also offers a variety of topics, such as freedom of speech, happiness, life, love, and more. From this page you can reach other sections, such as quotes by authors, quotes by arguments, and quotes by Carl William Brown
Daimon Club Organization
https://www.english-culture.com/100-best-quotes/ 100 best quotes and aphorisms by great and famous authors and writers edited for the World of English blog by Carl William Brown. Quotes include: "In tristitia hilaris, in hilaritate tristis" by Giordano Bruno, "The path to paradise begins in hell" by Dante, "We fight against three giants, my dear Sancho: “injustice, fear, and ignorance”" by Miguel de Cervantes, "Never accept an inferior position to anyone" by Miyamoto Musashi, "Today is the first day of the rest of your life" by Zig Ziglar, "We learn from history that we do not learn from history" by Friedrich Hegel, "All war is a symptom of man's failure as a thinking animal" by John Steinbeck, "Everywhere I go I find that a poet has been there before me" by Sigmund Freud, and "Smart people learn from everything and everyone, but stupid people already have all the answers" by Socrates.
https://www.english-culture.com/ai-guide-to-web-resources/ A guide to the many AI resources available on the internet, including databases, general resources, texts, chats, software, books, services, voice and music, images, graphics, videos, online tools, and games. It includes links to websites such as The World of English, There's An AI For That, Andi Search, Perplexity Open Search, Google Translate, Microsoft Translator, Ahrefs, QuillBot, Books.Google.com, InstaText, DoNotPay, Notion, AISEO, Natural Readers, Eleven Labs, Descript, Riffusion, Stable Diffusion, D-ID, Brandmark, MyCharacter, Beautiful.ai, Zoomscape, Waymark, Tome, AITWO, Durable, ToWords, Sloyd, AI Dungeon, and AWS.
https://www.english-culture.com/daimon-club-organization/ Daimon Club is a cultural association founded in 1997 by Carl William Brown to promote his literary works. It is a virtual meeting place made up of more than seven hundred pages, concerning almost every sort of subject. The name “Daimon” has a Greek origin and means “genius” or “spirit”. The main goal of the association is to improve communication abilities and to promote surrealism. The organization offers various services such as cultural research, free exchange of promotional links, translations, and consultations. It also sponsors campaigns against HIV virus and AIDS, and encourages dialogue between the two cultures, humanities and science. The Daimon Club also has a project to create an international operating center for the organization.
The Royal Society
https://www.english-culture.com/proverbs-and-sayings/ Proverbs and sayings are wise words of wisdom that have been passed down through generations. They are often short and simple, and express a truth based on the practical experience of humankind. These great quotes can be used to express both the wisdom and the stupidity of different cultures and peoples. They are often used to give advice and guidance, and can be found in literature, poetry, and everyday speech.
https://www.english-culture.com/origin-of-proverbs/ Proverbs are ancient words of wisdom that have been passed down through generations in many cultures. They are typically short, pithy sayings that express a general truth or moral lesson. They are often found in the Bible, Aesop's Fables, and other works of literature. They can be used to teach moral lessons, provide inspiration, and serve as a practical guide to living a better life.
https://www.english-culture.com/autonomous-learning/ Successful language learning entails learner motivation, cooperation and empathy. This approach places emphasis on learner development. Autonomous learning is the process of learning without relying on formal education systems. It involves self-motivation, self-monitoring, and self-assessment. It can be done through reading books, exploring the world, and engaging in activities that promote self-learning. This process can be enhanced through peer-checking, producing materials, and reflecting on usage. It is important to provide learners with tips and assistance when needed, and to avoid “denouncing” them for making mistakes.
Finance and Trading
https://www.english-culture.com/english-grammar-summaries/ English grammar is a complex and confusing set of rules based on Latin, with many variations in dialects and regional differences. It is important to understand the rules of grammar and to treat the English language with respect as an intricate tool. Quotes from various authors are provided to illustrate the importance of grammar and the complexity of the English language. A list of resources is provided to help with learning English grammar, vocabulary, and usage. From this page you can reach a lot of others posts and links about the English language, its grammar with lots of tests.
https://www.english-culture.com/anecdotes-quotes/ Anecdotes and quotes are a great way to learn about English culture and the world. Famous writers and characters have told and narrated a lot of great works of art using this literary form. Some famous anecdotes of this page include the conversation between a mother and daughter, the story of Picasso, the story of the Michigan Grayling. Isaac D'Israeli's book A Dissertation On Anecdotes is a great resource for learning more about anecdotes and quotes.
https://www.english-culture.com/literature-life/ Literature and life are closely intertwined. Literature can be used to teach, move, and entertain. It can also be used to transcend reality and provide insight into the human experience. There are many resources available to explore literature, such as Anna's Archive, PDF Drive, and WORLD BOOKS IN THE NET. Additionally, there are many quotes and aphorisms on books, poetry, and literature available to explore.
Britannica Online
https://www.english-culture.com/thoughts-and-opinions/ Thoughts and opinions, ideas, reflections, intellectual speculations and considerations on different literary and social cultural topics by various and famous authors shaped on their cultural experiences. Quotations from influential people can be used to create valuable speech and writing. Quotations can help to express ideas better, evoke emotions, and show knowledge. Quotations can be used to discuss topics such as religion, philosophy, language, history, anthropology, astronomy, literature, poetry, and love.
https://www.english-culture.com/great-philosophy-quotes/ Philosophy is a battle against the bewitchment of our intelligence by means of language. Ludwig Wittgenstein. If you don’t like my principles, I ‘ve got others. Groucho Marx. To be is to be perceived. (Esse est percipi). Bishop George Berkeley. The aim of philosophy is to show the fly the way out of the bottle. Great philosophy quotes include: "The secret to happiness is to face the fact that the world is horrible," by Bertrand Russell; "We feel that even if all possible scientific questions be answered, the problems of life have still not been touched at all," by Ludwig Wittgenstein; "The only true wisdom is knowing that you know nothing," by Socrates; "The aim of philosophy is to show the fly the way out of the bottle," by Ludwig Wittgenstein; "The only reason for time is so that everything doesn't happen at once," by Albert Einstein; and "The effort to understand the universe is one of the very few things that lifts human life a little above the level of farce, and gives it some of the grace of tragedy," by Steven Weinberg.
https://www.english-culture.com/poetry-and-poems/ Poetry is an ancient and widespread art form that has its origins in the communal expression of the religious spirit. It is a form of imaginative literary expression that makes its effect by the sound and imagery of its language. It is characterized by compression, extensive use of imagery, and a strong emotional component. It covers a wide range of topics, from hymns and lullabies to love songs and political satires. It is often used as a form of communication or instruction, but it is also an art form in its own right. It has been adapted to many different cultures and times, and technological advances have made it possible to preserve any poem.
Autonomous learning
https://www.english-culture.com/essays-with-quotes/ Essays with quotes. This article provides a list of classic essays and speeches from some of the world's greatest authors, including Walt Whitman, Virginia Woolf, George Ade, Susan B. Anthony, Robert Benchley, Joseph Conrad, Frederick Douglass, W.E.B. Du Bois, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ben Hecht, Ernest Hemingway, Martin Luther King Jr., Jack London, H.L. Mencken, Christopher Morley, George Orwell, Dorothy Parker, Bertrand Russell, Margaret Sanger, George Bernard Shaw, Henry David Thoreau, James Thurber, Anthony Trollope, Mark Twain, H.G. Wells, and Walt Whitman.
https://www.english-culture.com/latin-influence-in-the-english-language/ Latin influence in the English Language and vocabulary through the centuries. Latin has had a significant influence on the English language, with estimates of native words (derived from Old English) ranging from 20%–33%, and the true percent of native words used in everyday spoken and written English actually ranging from 75%–90%. A computerized survey of about 80,000 words in the old Shorter Oxford Dictionary (3rd ed.) estimated the origin of English words as follows: Langue d'oïl, including French and Old Norman: 28.3%; Latin, including modern scientific and technical Latin: 28.24%; Germanic languages: 25%; Greek: 5.32%; No etymology given: 4.03%; Derived from proper names: 3.28%; All other languages: less than 1%. English has borrowed extensively from Latin, with loanwords dating from the period before the Germanic tribes invaded England, and continuing throughout the Old and Middle English periods.
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On September 7 residents and security forces clashed on the island of Rempang, Riau province, after local people attempted to stop the authorities from conducting land measurements and boundary marking for the Eco City development project.
Residents blocked the main road spanning the island using trees and burning tyres as makeshift barricades. Police responded by firing teargas into the crowd with some landing in a nearby school, resulting several children suffering from teargas inhalation. Police detained at least eight demonstrators following the incident.
In 2001 plans emerged to turn Rempang Island into an industrial and tourism area supported by a free trade zone and free port policy as part of the Batam City Industrial Area Development Project, which was awarded to the company PT Makmur Elok Graha (Meg) on May 17 2004.
Prior to this, in 1986 under Forestry Minister Sujarwo, Rempang Island was declared a conservation area but without any consultation or inspection on the ground, so the island was deemed to be uninhabited.
A new policy in 1992 established that Rempang Island, Galang Island and the surrounding islands were to be included in the Batam Island Industrial Region as a Bonded Zone. This reaffirmed the assumption that there were no local communities living on Rempang Island or that they were not of any concern. As a consequence there was no policy for the relocation of local residents or compensation mechanisms.
Following this in 1999, residents of Galang sub-district on Rempang Island were given the opportunity to become part of the administration of the Batam City municipal government, but this still did not resolve the problem because the communities there were still not recognised because as did not have legal claim over land that had occupied for generations.
In late 2022 a meeting was held between the Batam Free Trade Zone Authority (BP Batam) and Rempang residents at the Tg Kertang Bridge Four Village on Rempang Island, at which the BP Batam explained about the planned Rempang Eco City construction project that would be carried out by PT Mega.
The mega project was to be part of the government's so-call agrarian reform program known as TORA (Agrarian Reform Land Object), which would be registered by the government by requesting land right certificates from Galang sub-district residents.
In the second period of the process PT Meg conducted aggressive lobbying with related ministries in order to get support to accelerate the project, which became easier after a decree was issued designating the project as a strategic national project (PSN).
If we go back a few years following the 1965 mass killings that brought Suharto's New Order dictatorship into power, land gabbing had become common in many parts of Indonesia. This was in line with Suharto's move to forge a close relationship with the US imperialist state, which had backed Suharto's seizure of power and the removal of Indonesia's leftist founding president Sukarno.
And of course in order to pay back this debt of gratitude, the US was allowed to force its way deeper into Indonesia's economy though capital exports such as funding development programs in an effort to increase its grip on and in the end be freer to monopolise the economy. By this time land grabs were being carried out though a militaristic approach.
Suharto was overthrown in 1998, but the ideology of developmentalism (pembangunanisme) continued to dominate in Indonesia. In 2004 the World Bank issued a document titled Bad Infrastructure Hampers Indonesia's Economic Growth and Poverty Alleviation Efforts. These kinds of documents are a scenario that is always applied to control Third World countries because with large debts they can be forced to follow programs that have been determined by the imperialist countries. Thus Indonesia is encouraged to pursue infrastructure projects to support the smooth circulation of capital throughout the country.
The implementation of this on the ground began in 2004 during the era of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (SBY) with the Master Plan for the Acceleration and Expansion of Indonesia's Economic Development (MP3EI). Put roughly, the World Bank said that if Indonesia wants to maintain economic stability it must improve the state of its infrastructure.
Since the late 80s Indonesia has adopted the model of public-private partnership schemes (PPP). Under these schemes, infrastructure development is no longer funded by the government but is instead handed over to the private sector or investors. For these investors it becomes a kind of bolu kukus (steamed sponge cake) that is soft and delicious because they can do as they like when investing in Indonesia.
Meanwhile the government's role in facilitating projects is taking responsibility for the acquisition of land, which can be done by means of forced mediation or forced evictions, as was the recent case in Rempang.
The authority of national strategic projects has been further strengthened by the enactment of the widely unpopular Omnibus Law on Job Creation, which provides strong "legal certainty" for the acquisition of land for the benefit of capitalistic projects in Indonesia.
The law also saw the establishment of a Land Bank. In normative terms this institution guarantees the availability of land through the concept of economic fairness for public, social and national development interests, economic equality, land consolidation and agrarian reform.
This however is only on paper. In practical terms, the hidden goal of land banks is to facilitate the process of land acquisition for investment, both in the name of development for the public interest and economic growth, as well as facilitating the process of the privatising state land. Land controlled by the land bank is given the status of the Land Management Rights (HPL).
The implication of this is the privatisation and commercialisation of state land (something prohibited in the 1960s), and the avoidance of corruption in the use of state land, and the strong potential to displace people from their land, who de facto are occupying or living on state land. Thus people can be evicted on legal grounds.
In order to fight the people's oppressors, there needs to be a systematic and organised movement. Starting from educating young people, and this education must also be populist in accordance with the definitions and desires of the people. The ordinary people must build for themselves what they want without interference from the corrupt government.
With that also, when young people understand who the real enemy is that is trampling on and grabbed their parents' necks, and forcibly taking their land, then young people will be two or three steps closer to an organised people's movement.
Then there is a need for solidarity from the working class, students and other elements of the oppressed people in every part of Indonesia so that it can pressure the government to withdraw all military and police forces from Rempang (as well as Wades and other areas where people are threatened with eviction) and provide the rights that should be afforded to the residents of Rempang Island such as land ownership and the right for the indigenous people on Rempang to control, regulate, manage and utilise their customary lands and all natural resources within it.
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Catalyzing Success in Dubai: Unveiling Licensing and Regulatory Pathways - PRO Deskk
Embarking on a business venture in Dubai involves navigating through a labyrinth of licensing and regulatory procedures overseen by the Dubai Economic Department (DED). PRO Deskk is a one-stop business solution that can guide you through this meticulous journey. The DED categorizes business activities into Commercial and Industrial Licenses, encompassing trading, services, professions, artisans, craftsmen, and manufacturing.
Different business sectors require approvals from specific ministries and government bodies:
Dubai Municipality: Restaurants and contracting firms need approvals from here.
Road and Transport Authority (RTA): Licenses involving car rentals and specific transportation services require RTA approval.
National Media Council: Businesses in advertising, publishing, and printing seek endorsement from this council.
Central Bank of UAE and Insurance Authority: Financial sector businesses need approval from these entities for banking services, financial institutions, and insurance.
Ministries: Industries like manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and maritime activities require ministry approvals.
Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry: Every Commercial and Industrial License must register here.
Diving deeper, there are additional requirements and fees tied to certain licenses:
Tourism License: Inbound and outbound tourism activities mandate bank guarantees, refundable upon license cancellation.
Travel Agency License: A deposit at the Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing is required, refundable later.
Building Contracting Companies: A one-time fee is payable at the Department of Economic Development.
General Trading: Additional charges apply as a one-time fee at the Department of Economic Development.
Customs Broker: A deposit is to be paid to Dubai Customs, refundable upon license cancellation.
RTA Activities: Different fees apply for various RTA activities such as Rent a Car, Bus Rental, and Passenger Transport.
Understanding these nuances is vital for entrepreneurs looking to establish a foothold in Dubai’s dynamic market. PRO Deskk, as a comprehensive business solution provider, can assist in complying with these regulatory requirements, ensuring a smooth start and sustainable growth within the region.
#DubaiBusinessSetup#DubaiEconomy#CommercialLicense#DubaiEntrepreneurship#DubaiRegulations#BusinessCompliance#UAEBusiness
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