Section 287(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act allows the Federal government (through U.S. Immigrations and Custom Enforcement) to enter into agreements with state and local law enforcement agencies to permit designated state and local agents to perform immigration law enforcement functions. The problems with these agreements are obvious. Most egregiously, these agreements often lead to a prevalence of racial profiling, as some lesser-trained state and local agents abuse their newfound power.
Examples of these problems are unfortunately present in Georgia, as both Gwinnett and Cobb counties have had numerous documented instances of 287(g) abuse and racial profiling by their officers since the implementation of their federal agreements. No case was a better indication of these problems than the case of undocumented immigrant Jessica Colotl, a Kennesaw State University student in good standing who faced deportation in 2010 after she was arrested for driving without a license. She was pulled over for "impeding the flow of traffic."
As a result of the abuse and profiling created by these 287(g) programs, the ACLU of Georgia sent a complaint to the Department of Homeland Security's Office for Civil Liberties and Civil Rights in 2010 outlining the reasons that the 287(g) agreements with Gwinnett and Cobb county should be terminated. Unfortunately, this plea fell on deaf ears, as Gwinnett and Cobb county have continued to operate their 287(g) programs through 2012. In May 2012, we sent yet another complaint letter urging these 287(g) agreements to not be renewed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.


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Getting and Spending the Refund Cheque
When I wrote my blog post about the Ontario licence plate fee refund, the cheque was in the mail. Last Monday it arrived. Studying it carefully revealed a few things about how this goodie was implemented.
Doing the Math
The covering letter says that the "cheque refunds your licence plate renewal fees from March 2020 to now." I received $270. My licence plate expiry date is in June and I had paid annual fees of $120 twice in the last two years. The extra $30 ($270 – (2 x $120) must represent the fees I paid in 2019 for the period from March to June 2020. Several people I've spoken to have gotten similar cheques. This leads me to conclude that the total refund for the period from March 2020 to now will be substantially greater than the estimated ongoing cost of $1 billion.
FYI, Note the FY
The cheque was dated March 30, 2022. If you know a little public sector inside baseball, you will recognize that this is the day before the fiscal year-end of March 31. This suggests that the Ford Government was ensuring that the refunds would be paid in the 2021-22 fiscal year. This will increase the deficit for 2021-22. In its forthcoming budget, the Government will prefer to incur expenditures in 2021-22, so the projected deficit in 2022-2023 will be smaller, and it will appear that the government is making progress to a balanced budget.
The cheque has two signatures, one an illegible public servant's (the faceless bureaucrat meme) and the other Finance Minister Peter Bethlenfalvy's. I'm surprised that Doug Ford missed this opportunity to enhance his name recognition with the electorate – or at least a portion of it.
The Recipients
The recipients of the cheques, of course, are people who own vehicles. Similarly, the beneficiaries of the recently announced six month 5.7 cents per litre reduction in the gasoline tax are drivers. It is said that driving is a privilege, not a right. Beyond that, drivers are a privileged group in Doug Ford's Ontario. And these targeted tax and fee cuts are an attempt to win their votes. Non-drivers are generally lower income, younger, and live in central cities. Doug Ford doesn't expect to get their votes, so why help them?
Spending the Rebate
As I mentioned in my previous post, I will be donating the money to an opposition party (more on that in a future post). Taking into account donations I've already made, this $270 rebate will allow me to donate $650 now and receive a credit of $380 on my 2022 taxes, so that the actual cost will be equal to the rebate.
Get Better Soon, Peter
Speaking of Peter Bethlenfalvy, the Ontario Finance Minister was scheduled to speak at the Empire Club today about "Ontario's Economy is Getting Stronger – Here's How," but he had to cancel because he has Covid. His topic is the slogan of the pre-election ad campaign Ford has been running using government money. Bethlenfalvy has rescheduled for next week, and I really hope he is better so I can hear his narrative about the Ontario economy. And maybe he can tell us how the ad campaign, the licence fee refund, and the tax cut are making Ontario – as opposed to the PC Party – stronger. Stay tuned.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


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Tiger, Phil And Player Of The Year
By Jaime Diaz Photos by Sacramento Bee/Getty Images
Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson during the first round of the 2012 U.S. Open.
Among the spoils of winning in professional golf -- and especially a major championship -- is that the victor for a short time is aggrandized beyond proportion.
That means Tiger Woods is being unnecessarily hyped. Just the raw facts of what Woods did at the WGC-Bridge-stone Invitational in Akron, Ohio -- winning for the fifth time this year, mixing in a 61 on his way to a seven-stroke blowout, all in the week before the year's last major -- belie embellishment. He appears in even better form than he did after cruising to victory in May at the Players. It's a loaded term, but it's far from a stretch to consider him, to a significant degree, back.
This story line with a little extra mustard -- Tiger is again unbeatable -- makes a nice counter to the enduring buzz for Phil Mickelson. Lefty's victory at Muirfield in the British Open last month redefined both what we think of him historically and what we can expect of him going forward.
It's been too long, but the two most compelling figures in golf are once again close to evenly matched at the very top of the game.
Related: How Tiger's swing has changed
There will always be Tiger fans and Phil fans and never the twain shall meet, but Woods has always separated himself in the non-subjective departments: wins, major wins, records. Mickelson isn't going to catch him on any sort of career basis, but this year there's an award that would carry extra meaning: PGA Tour Player of the Year, determined by a vote of the players.
It's still early, with a major and the FedEx Cup playoffs yet to be contested, and 2013 major winners Adam Scott and Justin Rose, or even Matt Kuchar or Brandt Snedeker, might have something to say about it. Nor is the award definitive, competing with the equally prestigious PGA of America Player of the Year honor, which is based on a point system. Furthermore, Woods has won the tour's award 10 times. He probably wouldn't care if he didn't win it again this year ... unless Phil did instead. So he cares.
Mickelson, on the other hand, has never won the award, just as he has never been No. 1 on the World Ranking, where Woods has spent seemingly a generation and counting. So Mickelson cares too.
Here's what makes it interesting: Lefty is leading. No doubt Woods has played at a consistently higher level and has three more victories. But Mickelson's first British Open triumph was momentous. Unless Woods wins the PGA, Muirfield will be how 2013 is remembered.
Major championships have often determined year-end awards. The best example was Ben Hogan, who after coming back from his car accident in 1950 won the U.S. Open at Merion for his only official victory of the year. Meanwhile, Sam Snead won 11 times, although not any majors. Hogan was named PGA Player of the Year, while a wounded Snead significantly cut back his playing schedule.
Mickelson himself has previously been a victim of majoritis. In 1996 he won four tournaments but none of the big four while Tom Lehman won twice including the British Open. Lehman was the tour's player of the year.
Related: Phil Mickelson swing sequence
It's a criteria Woods supports. In 2008 Woods won four events including the U.S. Open at Torrey Pines before sitting out the rest of the year with injury. When Padraig Harrington won the year's final two majors, Woods said the Irishman deserved to be the tour's player of the year, which he was.
Bereft of a major, the ball is now in Woods' court. A PGA victory would be game over, a milestone moment in his saga of greatness, redemption and the ascent of Mount Nicklaus.
But if neither Tiger or Phil (or Scott, Rose, Kuchar or Snedeker) were to win at Oak Hill, Mickelson's lead would increase. Then again, so might Woods' motivation. The chance to thwart Phil might ignite his former propensity for late-season winning streaks.
Remember 2006? After winning the Masters to back up victory at the previous year's PGA, Mickelson stood on the 72nd tee at Winged Foot on the verge of supplanting Woods as No. 1. Then Lefty made his catastrophic double bogey to lose the U.S. Open, and Woods reestablished dominance by winning the next two majors.
Now Mickelson is on the verge again. Perhaps it will provide the push Woods needs to finally get his 15th major. Even if he doesn't, expect a pitched battle from the current No. 1 to keep the champion golfer of the year from also becoming player of the year.


When you first move into a home, whether it is a new build or an existing home, it can look incredibly bare and impersonal. It is in both the small details and the statement decor that you can impart your personal taste and style and make your house into a home that you will be truly proud of and in which you will feel completely comfortable. One unique and interesting way you can not only impart personal style but elegance, luxury and grandeur is with stone moulding. Stone moulding can be used in a variety of ways to enhance your home and below we will discuss three applications that would spectacularly elevate the design aesthetic of any home.
Just like icing on a cake, stone moulding stops the exterior of a home from being flat and boring and brings dimension and visual interest. A drab exterior leaves much to be desired. Curb appeal is important because it is the first thing anyone sees when they visit your home and it sets the tone for their overall experience. Stone moulding can be used in a variety of ways on your home's exterior to highlight architectural features. Stone moulding can be used along the roof line, around windows, around doorframes, along balconies, around garages and so much more. Your home has unique architectural features that should be highlighted and enhanced by stone moulding, and if your home is lacking, stone moulding can make all the difference.
In the same way that stone moulding can enhance your home's exterior architectural features, it can also enhance a home's interior features. We have all seen crown moulding in a home and marveled at the way it transforms a space but stone moulding is the ultimate way to add elegance and visual interest. There are a variety of styles to choose from with stone moulding to perfectly compliment your home's unique design aesthetic and interior decor. Stone moulding adds depth and draws focus so it is the perfect complement to things like doorframes, as a transition from ceiling to wall, as a chair rail, around windows, around fireplaces and more.
There are a lot of ways to incorporate carved stone into landscape design. Stone moulding can be used to accent architectural features in landscape design, along balconies or decks, or near landscape structural such as arbors, pergolas or more. Additionally, it can be used to highlight features around a pool to create the ultimate feeling of luxury and class.


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I don't believe I'm eccentric: Jeff Goldblum
Jeff Goldblum, who reprises his role as David Levinson in Independence Day: Resurgence, tells me that the film is so much more than just rampant destruction
Jeff Goldblum, top hat and all, towers over me in the conference room at the Park Hyatt, Sydney. Before taking his seat, he wants to know where I come from. "India!" he repeats, almost enchanted by the country. His baritone, which I suspect has healing properties, echoes in the still silence of the room.
There's something, for lack of a better word, otherworldly about him: his wizard-like appearance, his slow, measured manner of speech, the glint in his eyes as he waits for you to make your point, his animated expressions… It is perhaps all this that contributes to his memorably eccentric performances on screen.
"Oh, I don't know if I'll call it eccentric, although I can see why you do," he says. "Generous directors give me the freedom to bring my-own-something to my roles — to make them more than just what they are on the page."
We saw this in the roles that most Indians remember him for: the cynical Dr. Ian Malcolm in Jurassic Park, and the computer expert David Levinson in Independence Day — both disaster films. Perhaps, his humour serves the purpose of buoying up these otherwise murky movies. "Yes, that's partly Roland's (director Roland Emmerich) intention in Independence Day: Resurgence. It may all be serious and heart-wrenching, but you know, we humans have a sense of humour."
It was never a surprise to Jeff that the sequel was made, even though it took 20 years. "Roland and I have stayed as pals after the first film that did so well. Now, the technology is special. The cast is incredible too. We have Sela Ward playing the first female president. How about that!"
It's one of those things Jeff says in a half-serious, half-joking way. He goes on to deny that there is a temptation to draw attention to self in a film such as Independence Day: Resurgence that has so many popular cast members, including Liam Hemsworth and Bill Pullman. "I think an actor comes out best when he's just invested in bringing out what the director wants. It's important to put your own agenda away, and serve the film." So true is he to this approach that he went through every page of the film's script and even requested that his character not be present in a few scenes. "Sometimes, less is better in such films."
His character, David Levinson, has a "special sort of intuition", much like in the first film, but has undergone some transformation. "I played an under-achiever in the first film. Now, I'm one of the people protecting the world, you know, in case something bad happens. We use new technology to solve environmental problems, create a defence system, find out who the aliens are…"
The original film shows the destruction of almost half the human race. "My character may have fought wars, but has endured nothing of this scale. Three billion died in the 1996 film, and that's a heck of a thing."
I ask him if VFX-heavy, disaster films such as this provide actors with scope for performance at all. "Well, whether people like it or not, we are just trying to make something with integrity. Roland is an authentic director. When I heard of the first film, I could immediately see it was like a contemporary version of an Irwin Allen disaster movie." And, that's not all. "Ultimately, it is about the unification of humanity in the face of a disaster. We've seen in real life how potential disasters necessitate this unification."
He says it isn't all about blowing things up, and the planet getting saved at the last possible minute by a heroic act. "Earthlings bond as a family in this precious and fragile planet. We have a special personality, you know? I think this angle may play out even more in the third film."
I interrupt just to confirm. "There's definitely a third film then?" He denies knowledge about it, and says in his typical manner, "Who knows? But if it does happen, I'll still be there, trying to geek myself."
This article was written for The Hindu. All copyrights belong to the organisation. Do link to this page if you'd like to share it.
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From Impressed to Obsessed
I was thirteen years old when I wrote my first novel in 1993. It was titled "The American Dream." I remember it so clearly. It was handwritten in blue ink in three A5 exercise books. I had to sew them together with thick yarn to make one copy. My drawing ability came in handy, and I made a colorful illustration of the main character on white paper, then cut and glued it onto the brownish cover. Next, I wrote the title in fancy letters and covered the book in transparent plastic wrap, giving it a neat and glossy look.
The title could not be more cliché. What did an African teenager know about American life? Nothing, except what we learned from the media. We longed to live the American lives we saw playing out on television. The list was endless, from the Cosbys, Saved by the Bell, Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Dynasty, Beverly Hills 90210, to Bay Watch and Melrose Place. The booming R&B and Hip Hop culture influenced our dressing and music choice. MTV music videos put the icing on the cake. We loved all things American!
The events that influenced the storyline and title of my book began five years earlier, in 1988, when I heard the song Dial My Heart by the R&B boy band of four brothers called The Boys. The song was at the top of our local music charts, and after I watched the four brothers dancing on stage in oversized tuxedos in the music video for A little Romance, I fell in love! I wished I could be one of the girls in that video. The Boys were not only handsome with cool haircuts, but they also had cool dance moves, and their vibrant energy was palpable through the T.V.
When my sister Rutendo saved her pocket money (allowance) and purchased the vinyl record Messages from the Boys, I went from being a fan to a super fan. I played the entire album back to back, repeatedly, singing and dancing to all the songs— every day for weeks. After that, I was officially an obsessed fan!
I studied the record jacket, front and back, and that was when I learned their names, Khiry, Hakeem, Tajh, and Bilal Abdulsamad. Then, I researched any information I could find about The Boys. What a task in 1989/1990! Without the internet and social media, my only source was magazines that were hard to come by and way too expensive for a nine or ten-year-old.
I can't remember how I finally got my hands on a magazine with a center spread of The Boys, including an interview and their background story. I was thrilled. I read that article several times over. About how they began singing for by-standers at Venice beach in California to raise money for a Father's Day gift. They earned good money and became so popular that they turned that one performance into a regular act and eventually got discovered and produced by Baby Face and L. A Reid and signed to Motown. The great American story—I was all in.
Of the four brothers, my favorite was Hakeem; he was my first celebrity crush. Hakeem was to me what Justin Beiber was to pre-teens when he first came on the scene. I came into possession of a wall poster of The Boys and couldn't stop admiring Hakeem. My sisters and friends knew of my Hakeem obsession because I told everyone that I would go to America and find him, my true love.
A message to The Boys
Before Twitter and Instagram, the only way to send a message to your favorite celebrity was through fan mail (you have to be at least 40 years old to remember this). You could send a letter to the fan club address via snail mail and, in return, receive a signed photograph of your favorite superstar. For example, my childhood friend and neighbor was crazy about Richard Dean Anderson, the main character on the popular T.V series MacGyver. After months of waiting, she wrote to his fan club and received an autographed photo of Richard Dean Anderson. I was blown away by that idea and knew I had to write to The Boys, specifically Hakeem (ha-ha).
And so I did. I discovered The Boys 'fan club address on the back of their vinyl record jacket in tiny print. I saved my pocket-money to pay for the airmail (international postage stamp) that was pricey for a nine or ten-year-old (I can't remember my exact age). In my letter, I told them how I loved their music and was probably their biggest fan in Africa. Could they please send me an autographed photo and poster?
I waited weeks and months and got no reply. So then I decided to send another letter if the last one got lost in the mail. So again, I spent all my savings. Spending all my money on a postage stamp was a considerable sacrifice. Pocket money (we called it tuck money) was a daily allowance that our parents gave us to spend on snacks during recess at the school tuck shop. So for days and weeks, I went without any treats/snacks, saving every penny. And still no reply.
I didn't give up, and I wasn't a happy fan. My third letter to The Boys was a long rant from a disgruntled fan. Yes, I did it. I wrote how selfish they were for not considering posting mail from Zimbabwe to the United States was expensive. Besides, it is downright rude to ignore a fan! Was it too much to ask for an autographed photo to show my friends? (I'd told everyone I was getting a signed picture of Hakeem). Still, I begged for a reply, and I had a special message for Hakeem. I wanted a photo of just him, without his brothers!
I don't know if my letters ever made it, or perhaps they got lost in the pile of mail from hundreds of other super fans. I can only imagine the laughs by their management team if they ever read my third letter. But, unfortunately, I will never know because I never received a reply—there were no messages from The Boys.
Lemons to Lemonade
Years later, at thirteen, I had more significant problems than worrying and obsessing about Hakeem and his brothers. I had moved on to other interests like the New Kids on The Block, Boys II Men, and Tevin Campbell. These musicians were at the top of the music charts and driving all the girls wild. But, unfortunately, the Boys seemed to have disappeared off the airwaves. I still liked their music, but as I grew older and the music scene changed, they became a distant memory.
I loved reading and writing and was always buried deep in a book. I enjoyed fiction, and in those days, Sidney Sheldon and Danielle Steel were my favorites. But then I had an urge to write, and the more I read, the stronger it grew. I wanted to tell a story but had no idea what to write or where to begin. Then the idea came to me. I was probably taking a shower to get ready for school or during our many daily chores like cleaning the dorm rooms (argh! the joys of boarding school), washing dishes in the school kitchen, or watering the vegetable gardens.
The story was about a seventeen-year-old Zimbabwean girl who was crazy about a superstar boy band of four African- American brothers. The Boy band was a global success, and to promote an upcoming album, they announced a competition to discover their "Super Fan." Fans worldwide had to write a short essay about why they should be selected. The grand prize was a one-month Super Fan experience with the boy band, including joining them on tour and spending a few days in their Hollywood mansion.
The girl from Zimbabwe saved her allowance and raised enough to send a one-page essay about how their music inspired her to work hard to achieve her dreams, just as they had done. Finally, out of the millions of hopeful girls and boys from all around the world, she was the chosen one! The story detailed how the simple African girl was flown to America, her first time leaving her family, home, and country, to meet the world's greatest boy band, including her first celebrity crush. A dream come true! But she would soon find out that it was not all glitz and glamor, and the reality was far from her fantasy.
The story followed the girl's journey to the United States, a country she had only read about and watched on T.V. As the writer, I had to imagine what that would have felt like because I had never been to America. But, at least I could write about being on an airplane because I had been on a plane once when I was eight years old, a short flight from Bulawayo to Harare, and I used what I could remember from that experience to describe the plane ride. The rest was pure imagination.
I imagined the girl being picked up at the airport by a limo driver holding a banner with her name. I had seen this scene on T.V. I described how she would have been overwhelmed by her modern surroundings compared to her humble African environment. When the limo pulls up to the mansion, the girl is mesmerized. I was inspired by the scene from "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" when Will Smith steps out of the taxi and looks up at the mansion, his new home. So, that "Bel-Air house" became the mansion in my book.
Then she met the brothers, and they looked nothing like they did on T.V. They were neither as good-looking nor friendly. She later discovers that the celebrity life shown on T.V was exaggerated and staged. The brothers didn't get along as a band or as a family. They fought constantly, and each member threatened to leave the band to pursue a solo career. The brothers lived with their parents and managers, and they disagreed on just about everything. These rich and famous boys were overworked and miserable (think The Jackson Five).
The gist of the story was that the African girl who initially felt unwelcome soon warmed up to this dysfunctional family. Weaving her way into their lives, forming unique bonds with each member, and eventually getting them to appreciate each other and work together, like how Maria in "The Sound of Music" positively influenced the Von Trapp family, and they lived happily ever after.
The brothers liked her and invited her for a day at their school. And there, again, she was disappointed because it wasn't as cool as it looked on T.V. Some of the kids made fun of her accent, clothes, and hair. However, one of the brothers saved her from a bully. And when everyone discovered that she was staying with the famous brothers, she became popular, to the mean girls' despair. I took a lot of inspiration from Saved by the Bell to write that storyline. That was my idea of what an American high school would be.
I don't remember all the story's details, but I think there was a romantic storyline with one of the brothers and maybe a first kiss. By the time the month was up and the girl had to return to Zimbabwe, the brothers were back to being a united boy band. Their parents had stepped down from management to focus on parenthood. She thought going to America would change her life, but she changed the lives of her American host family.
That was my first book as I remember it. I wrote dialogue and detailed descriptions. My experience of being a super fan of The Boys, who never replied to my fan mail, inspired the idea for my first book.
My schoolmates at St. James high school liked my story. As I wrote and developed the story, I remember people lining up to read it, chapter by chapter. I loved the writing process, creating a fantasy, and putting it on paper for others to read. I wrote several stories after that, including short stories with illustrations and comic books (co-written with my sister Mutsa). The writing bug has come to bite me throughout the years, but I never completed any of the writing. Instead, I'd save to my computer or share with a friend or two and leave it. Then, life happened, and I didn't have the time or drive to write again.
In 2018 that urge to write returned, and this time it was fierce. The idea for my book came to me while I was at work, and I couldn't wait to get home and start typing. So, finally, the book is ready to be shared with the world. I am excited and can't wait for you to read it!
Watch the Videos:
Dial My Heart music video: https://youtu.be/ZhKKK7AgTIs
A little romance music video: https://youtu.be/9dl07EUPZiY


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PV Production in Europe is Experiencing a Renaissance
Product innovations and optimizations, rising demand and sinking production costs are enabling solar companies to bring photovoltaic production back to Europe. This trend is further boosted by the research and mechanical engineering expertise represented on the continent as well as by problems with global supply chains stemming from the coronavirus pandemic.
©asharkyu / Shutterstock
Initiatives and collaborations such as the Solar Manufacturing Accelerator scheme aim to re-establish and advance PV production in Europe. "Europe is an attractive production site, because production is environmentally friendly and profitable here and has proven feasible even without subsidies," explains Dr. Jutta Trube, Vice Managing Director of the sector association Electronics, Micro and New Energy Production Technologies (EMINT) at the German Mechanical Engineering Industry Association (VDMA).
Swiss-based company Meyer Burger is set to build module production facilities in Freiberg (Saxony) and Bitterfeld-Wolfen (Saxony-Anhalt), which will help revive a region that used to be Germany's solar valley. The start of production is scheduled for the first half of 2021 with an output of 400 megawatts (MW) in solar cells and 400 MW in solar modules. The plan is to expand the factory's production to 5 gigawatts (GW) by 2026, which is expected to create as many as 3,500 direct jobs.
But this is not the only project to be realized in the former solar valley: NexWafe, a company based in Bitterfeld-Wolfen, Baden-Württemberg, is planning the cost-efficient mass production of silicon wafers, so far the most expensive component of a solar module. The start-up has developed a process which lowers silicon losses during wafer production by 90 percent. The production capacity is expected to reach 15 GW by 2026 and wafer manufacturing costs should be reduced to half of those currently incurred by leading Asian manufacturers.
Other European players are also ramping up their production capacities: NorSun, a Norwegian manufacturer of monocrystalline silicon blocks and wafers, increased its annual production capacity from 450 MW to 1 GW last year, reducing unit costs by 30 percent as a result. The company plans to expand production capacity from 4 to 5 GW by 2024.
Intersolar Europe, the world's leading exhibition for the solar industry, will once again give space to PV production technologies in 2022. The exhibition will take place as part of The smarter E Europe 2022 at Messe München from May 11–13, 2022.
Renewable Energy Sources Act 2021: Making On-Site Consumption Attractive
The amended German Renewable Energy Sources Act (EEG), which came into force on January 1, 2021, makes on-site consumption even more worthwhile, especially for smaller and medium-sized PV installations.
Subsidy-Free Photovoltaics in Europe: PPAs Continue to Gain Ground
As costs continue to drop, more and more photovoltaics projects are being implemented without subsidies.
European Photovoltaics Market Experiences Robust Growth, Despite the Coronavirus Pandemic
New photovoltaic systems with a capacity of 18.2 gigawatts (GW) were installed in Europe in 2020.
Inverters – Smart All-Rounders
Solar inverters are increasingly becoming smart all-rounders.
Cells and Modules – Constant Competition for More Efficiency
Innovations are driving the development and production of increasingly powerful and cost-effective solar cells and modules, as is evident in the trajectory from multi-busbar technology to half-cut cell modules to solar tiles and shingles.


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Trump proposes expanding access to short-term health insurance
Short-term health plans are cheaper but come with unintended costs, experts warn
By Amy Martyn
02/22/2018 | ConsumerAffairs | Insurance
The Trump administration on Tuesday proposed a new rule that would allow people to remain on inexpensive, short-term health insurance plans that come with fewer consumer protections.
"Short-term, limited-duration insurance is a type of health insurance coverage that is designed to fill temporary gaps in coverage when an individual is transitioning from one plan or coverage to another form of coverage," the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) says.
Short-term health plans are already available in the United States, but under Obamacare rules, the plans cannot last longer than 90 days. The HHS proposal would allow the plans to last up to 12 months.
Under such plans, health insurers can exclude people with pre-existing conditions and charge more for certain health conditions. They would likely be more attractive to customers with fewer healthcare needs.
"Americans need more choices in health insurance so they can find coverage that meets their needs," HHS Secretary Alex Azar said in an announcement explaining the proposal. "The status quo is failing too many Americans who face skyrocketing costs and fewer and fewer choices."
Less coverage and fraud risks
The move to expand access to short-term health insurance follows a similar proposal issued by the HHS last month to allow consumers to form their own "associations" across state lines to purchase health insurance. Both ideas were raised in response to a directive that Trump signed in October, which asked the HHS to explore coverage options are "exempt from the onerous and expensive insurance mandates" stipulated by Obamacare.
Expansion of access to so-called "skinny" health insurance plans may seem attractive to the millions of Americans who remain uninsured, but experts warn that the cheaper health plans will offer less coverage, be vulnerable to fraud, and could take healthy, profitable customers out of the Affordable Care Act risk pool. Officials from the previous administration see the proposal as Trump's latest attempt to undermine Obamacare.
The proposals have been publicly championed, on the other hand, by chain retailers and chain restaurants, some of the nation's largest employers of uninsured workers. Both industries have bitterly fought the Affordable Care Act and its mandate that employers provide their full-time workers with health insurance.
From so-called Obamacare surcharges on customers' bills to cutting workers' hours and benefits, retailers and restaurants have protested the Affordable Care Act in a number of ways.
Wal-Mart, for instance, in 2014 terminated health benefits they offered to part-time workers just as the Affordable Care Act was rolling out. "Like every company, Wal-Mart continues to face rising health care costs," Wal-Mart said of its decision at the time.
"Skinny" plans not the answer, providers say
The National Retail Federation, which represents Wal-Mart and other retailers, has championed Trump's attempts to repeal the Affordable Care Act and his October directive calling for insurance plans exempt from "'onerous" mandates.
"As an industry with extremely tight profit margins, retailers are unable to absorb the added costs, and could be forced to lay off workers," the trade group claims.
Providers who want to expand access to affordable care are doubtful that "skinny" insurance plans are the answer.
"You can always make insurance more affordable by making insurance worse," Dr. Adam Gaffney, a pulmonologist who advocates for single-payer healthcare, told ConsumerAffairs last month.
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The yuppie parks his car, whips out his Dell notebook computer, connects it to his Cingular RAZR V3 cell phone, and surfs to a NASA page on the Internet, where he calls up a GPS satellite navigation system to get an exact fix on his location which he then feeds to another NASA satellite that scans the area in an ultra-high-resolution photo. The young man then opens the digital photo in Adobe Photoshop and exports it to an image processing facility in Hamburg , Germany. Within seconds, he receives an email on his Palm Pilot that the image has been processed and the data stored. He then accesses a MS-SQL database through an ODBC connected Excel spreadsheet with email on his Blackberry and, after a few minutes, receives a response.
Redneck Fire Alarm… Now With Extra Butter!
So the other day while standing in line at Wal-Mart I overheard an older lady telling the cashier, who didn't really appear to pay much attention to the woman, that she saw a man driving a pickup truck down the interstate… with a dog hanging on to the tailgate for dear life.
A few weeks later my neighbor Jim stops me by the mailbox and tells me he saw the darn funniest thing he's ever seen in his life so I ask him what he saw.
Apparently Jim waited for the owner of the vehicle to come out of the store, 'cuz retired people have time to wait around in Bass Pro Shop parking lots, and talked to the owner of the truck, a local taxidermist with a great sense of humor.
And it's not a dog, it's a coyote.
Not many people on the planet would argue that good redneck pictures can bring a smile to the face of just about anyone. Why? Just… Because.
NOTE: The husband's condition has been upgraded from critical to stable.


Sea Palling is off the main tourist trail being at almost the far eastern extremity of the North Norfolk coast. Facilities for visitors are few and far between on this piece of the coast but there is one important thing about Sea Palling that should not be overlooked; this tiny seaside village has one of the finest sandy beaches in the whole of North Norfolk.
This popular beach is partly man-made as most of the sand has built up as a result of the extensive sea defence works that were completed just a few years ago. Sea Palling is worthy of such protection because it is a natural ingress point for flood waters if there were another North Sea surge, such as that last seen in the catastrophic North Sea floods of 1953. Because of its topography Sea Palling would act as a giant funnel allowing flood waters to make their way into the precious Norfolk Broads National Park. This would cause extensive river flooding and untold damage as far inland as Norwich.
When visiting Sea Palling it is worth walking west along the narrow road that runs just on the land side of the sand dunes. Over many years along the side of this road an unofficial development of holiday dwellings of all shapes and sizes has grown. Some are like ordinary beach huts but others are far more ambitious and unique in design.
Sea Palling has a public house called the Old Hall Inn (reputedly haunted) beside the main coast road, and The Reef Bar provides food and drink down by the beach car parks.
That lead photo is beautiful. I don't think I've ever been to Sea Palling but it looks lovely.


Pot's Plan to Take Over the World?
Last month PBS aired a two hour special on The Botany of Desire by science writer, Michael Pollan. Pollan set out to explore how four particular plants have evolved to satisfy human desires: the apple, which evolved to satisfy our desire for sweetness; the tulip, our desire for beauty; the cannabis (marijuana plant), our desire for intoxication; and the potato, our desire for control.
The documentary shows beautifully how over time man has cultivated, cross-bred, and aided the transfer of these plants from one native environment to another. What's odd is that Pollan talks about the plants as if they're the ones in control while all these things are going on. For example, the apple's existential predicament, Pollan says, was that it was stuck in one place. So the apple evolved to appeal to mammals so they wouldn't be stuck there, and that's how they got people to bring them to America.
For the tulip, which Pollan says has no practical value, "the really ingenious ones are the ones that figure out ways to reengage us every generation." They do this by reproducing themselves in different colors so we won't get bored with them.
The potato? Pollan didn't ascribe as much intelligence to the pedestrian potato. It evolved, he says, to gratify our desire for control because we can grow huge amounts of it.
To be fair, Pollan shows genuine, contagious wonder at the fascinating subjects of his study, and he does admit at the end of the show that he's engaging in a bit of anthropomorphism. His conclusion was a fairly accurate summary of the power of nature. "Nature is stronger than any of our designs, and nature resists our controls." I wouldn't argue that point.
But what struck me as odd was that all the ingenuity and industriousness was ascribed to the plants, not to the people who were cultivating, growing, researching, cross-breeding, or transporting them. And it was the plants that had plans, will, and intentions. The people were merely objects for plants to manipulate.
Different. Plus, for me, I couldn't help but think that potatoes satisfy a desire for food more than a desire for control.
This post first appeared in the Salvo Signs of the Times blog.
Ah, the wonders of postmodern 'logic'. This story very well illustrates the back-to-the-Middle-Ages mindset: superstition and piling fallacy on fallacy. Great post, Terrell!


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Home MMA News Charles Oliveira Dustin Poirier releases statement following UFC 269 loss to Charles Oliveira
Dustin Poirier releases statement following UFC 269 loss to Charles Oliveira
Image Credit: @ufc on Twitter
Dustin Poirier has released a statement following his third round submission loss to Charles Oliveira at Saturday night's UFC 269 event.
Poirier (28-7 MMA) and Oliveira (32-8 MMA) collided in the headliner of last weekend's pay-per-view event at T-Mobile Arena.
Dustin Poirier had entered the highly anticipated title bout on a three-fight winning streak. 'The Diamond' was coming off back-to-back TKO victories over Conor McGregor in his most previous efforts.
Meanwhile, Charles Oliveira had captured the promotions vacant 155 lb title back in May, when he stopped Michael Chandler with a TKO in the second round. That win had marked 'Do Bronx's' ninth in a row, with eight of those respective victories coming by finish.
Saturday night's 'Oliveira vs. Poirier' main event produced one of the craziest opening rounds in UFC history. Dustin Poirier was able to drop Charles Oliveira on two occasions and appeared to be cruising towards his much desired title win. However, in round two 'Do Bronx' was able to score an early takedown and road out the round in top position while dropping elbows. Then, in round three, Oliveira was able to take the back of 'The Diamond' and promptly locked in a rear-naked choke to finish the contest.
Charles Oliveira stops Dustin Poirier at UFC 269
In the immediate aftermath of the loss Dustin Poirier admitted he wasn't sure if he had the desire to "claw and climb" the lightweight ladder again.
"I can do anything I put my mind to. I can fight for another belt. I can go on another streak. I can claw and climb and get back to wherever I want to be. It's just, 'Do I want to?' That's the question I've got to look in the mirror and answer. Do I want to do it again? Do I want to go down that road again? That answer will come in the next couple days or couple weeks."
While Dustin Poirier has still not made a firm decision regarding his fighting future, he did take to social media this afternoon where he issued the following statement to his fans.
What a beautiful journey, the ups and the downs. Im grateful for all of it
— The Diamond (@DustinPoirier) December 13, 2021
"What a beautiful journey, the ups and the downs. Im grateful for all of it." – Poirier wrote.
Who would you like to see Dustin Poirier fight next if he does decide to return to the Octagon? Share your thoughts in the comment section PENN Nation!


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NC Campus Compact seeks to respond to the needs of our communities and our state. Fighting hunger has been a special focus of our network. In addition to hosting the NC Hunger Corps AmeriCorps VISTA project, we have engaged in the activities below.
NCCC/Food Lion Feeds COVID-19 Gift Card Partnership
In response to the COVID-19 crisis, NC Campus Compact and Food Lion Feeds partnered in March 2020 to offer gift cards to campuses to help them stock their on-campus food pantries and toiletry closets to support students remaining on campuses and/or who live locally and have need. We were able to provide $250 Food Lion gift cards to 13 campuses in the NC Campus Compact member network. Campuses who participated in the 2020 NC Collegiate Hunger Challenge were ineligible for the gift cards as they received cash prizes in March to address food insecurity.
Davidson County Community College
NC Central University
UNC Asheville
Collegiate Hunger Challenge 2020
We were pleased to once again partner with Food Lion Feeds to host the 2nd annual Collegiate Hunger Challenge. Twelve schools were competing for up to $22,000 in prizes [1st place = $10K; 2nd place = $7K; 3rd place = $3K; SouperBowl Food Drive Collection = $1K; Social Media campaign = $1K gift card] to support efforts – on campus and in the local community- to raise awareness about and address food insecurity and hunger. Participating institutions selected one or two students to serve as MVP Hunger Ambassadors to help facilitate the campaign. It was expected to run from from January 26 – April 25. Unfortunately, due to the COVID-19 crisis we had to end the campaign the second week in March.
Than ks to the graciousness of Food Lion, we were able to provide each participating campus with a $1000 prize, rather than just the five prizes to the top winners. Also, all the Hunger Ambassadors received their stipend. Special congratulations to North Carolina A & T State University who won the social media prize: a $1000 gift card to support their on-campus food pantry. Check out all the posts from the campaign at #foodlionfeeds on Twitter and Instagram. (Pictured: Joshua White, one of the two MVP Hunger Ambassadors at NC A & T at the Pantry Pop-Up they used to promote the competition and serve students.)
Thanks to all the campuses who participated (listed below) and the Food Lion External Communications and Community Relations team.
Central Piedmont Community College
Lenoir-Rhyne University
NC A & T State University
Piedmont Community College
UNC Pembroke
IMPACT STORY: Piedmont Community College received their $1000 prize in Food Lion gift cards. An anonymous donor added $1375 to this cause so, all together, the Student Development Office was able to provide gift cards to 95 students in need in their rural, economically distressed county, during the COVID-19 crisis.
In August 2018 NC Campus Compact joined forces with Food Lion Feeds to launch the "Collegiate Hunger Challenge." The project sought to mobilize colleges and universities to address hunger in their local community. The winning campus could receive $20,000 to fund hunger-related programs. Seventeen campuses — including 4-year colleges and universities and 2-year community colleges — participated.
Each campus selected a student leader to serve as its MVP Student Hunger Ambassador and spearhead the challenge. Each campus also received $500 from Food Lion to organize hunger education, awareness, and feeding events in partnership with their local food bank, on-campus pantries, and Food Lion stores. They also created social media posts using #foodlionfeeds.
Elizabeth City State University won the $10,000 prize for the Souper Bowl Food Drive, collecting the most food, adjusted for enrollment. NC Central University won the $10,000 prize for overall campus-community hunger engagement.
North Carolina A &T State University
Pfeiffer University
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
University of North Carolina at Pembroke
Wake Technical Community College
From 2010-2013 the NC Campus Compact AmeriCorps VISTA program focused on hunger alleviation and program development. The 34 VISTA members, who were placed on member campuses throughout the state, assessed local food insecurity needs and developed strategies and programs. Since 2010, VISTA members have also coordinated programming for "Hunger and Homeless Awareness" week.
Our "Statewide Challenge to End Hunger" ran from November 2011 to March 2012, in conjunction with our Tenth Year Anniversary. The challenge sought to promote and collate campus efforts to address food insecurity. Thirteen NC Campus Compact members participated in the effort, which resulted in 19,946 pounds of food and 15,297 food items collected; 107,457 meals created or served; 7253 volunteer hours and $21,802 funds raised.
In fall 2012 and 2013, we sponsored two "NC Campuses Against Hunger" conferences to explore hunger-related issues. In response to the proliferation of campuses-based food pantries, we hosted a webinar in May 2014, "Establishing and Maintaining a Campus-Based Food Pantry," to provide information and training for our member institutions. In winter 2014-15, we partnered with AARP-NC to host the Hunger Solutions webinar series. In fall 2015 we facilitated a Food Access Learning Community for staff and faculty engaged in food access and hunger alleviation activities.
Becoming a VISTA Member
Hosting a VISTA member
Community Impact Student Award
Barnhill Civic Trailblazer Award
Marshall Alternative Break Scholarship
Engaged Faculty Award
Engaged Scholarship Prize
Civic Engagement Professional of the Year
Lambert Engaged Leader Award
Community Partner Award
2020 Census Highlights


SIGN UP WITH REFERRAL CODE LKZUYU FOR $15 DRIVING CREDIT! Or use the following link: www.carnextdoor.com.au/invited/LKZUYU Leo (the Kia Rio) is comfortable to drive, with automatic transmission. He seats 5 people and has great boot space. Leo is super easy to navigate and park. FEATURES: phone mount for the driver, charging cables for most devices (iPhone, Android, etc), AUX cable, tissues, umbrella, and usually I leave lollies and gum in the car too!


Firefighters are warning residents about the dangers of putting water on to chip pans fires after a blaze in Dartford last night (4 November).
A family in Francis Road heard a smoke alarm sounding and carbon monoxide detector beeping just after 9pm last night, and discovered a chip pan alight in the kitchen of their two-storey home.
The mother encouraged her three daughters to leave the property, she then called 999. She then quickly attempted to smother the fire with a dry tea-towel, however the heat caused it to catch fire too, so she then threw a bucket of water across the room towards the cooker in an attempt to douse the flames.
Fortunately the occupants, a mother and her three daughters, all got out of the property unharmed.
Two fire engines were sent to the scene and crews wearing breathing apparatus put out the remains of a shouldering fire in the kitchen, using a hose reel. They used a specialist fan to clear smoke from the house and a thermal imaging camera to check the fire was fully out. The fire caused damage to the cooker surround, cupboards and kitchen ceiling, as well as smoke logging.
Firefighters replaced the smoke alarms in the property and offered some safety advice and reassurance to the family.
Watch manger Allright said: "It is extremely easy to get distracted while cooking, however I would urge residents to take extra care not to leave cooking unattended. We would also advise families to consider getting for a thermostat-controlled deep fat fryer or using oven chips instead of using an open pan, as hot oil can overheat and ignite very easily, resulting in a fire that can spread extremely quickly.
KFRS offers a range of free advice and services to keep you and your family safe from fire in your home, speak to one of our home safety advisors by calling 0800 923 7000 (during normal office hours) or email.


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Horizons Moving Elsewhere in July
Published April 11, 2011 • Updated on April 13, 2011 at 1:01 pm
Horizons, Philly's temple to vegetarian and vegan cuisine, is closing around July 4. Owner Rich Landau said that fans of the place shouldn't get too upset, as they plan on opening another spot in Midtown Village. Landau is intent on keeping the staff intact during the move, as well.
The new concept will be a much simpler operation, as opposed to the intricate plates Horzions is famous for, and will focus on veggies instead of proteins and imitation meats. The Horizons team served the very first vegan meal at the legendary James Beard House in 2009, so we're confident that whatever they open, we'll be front and center.
In their place, Hopewell, NJ-based Nomad Pizza will begin operations in early September, where they will turn out wood-fired pies, and rely on a great beer and wine list to keep guests warm and fuzzy. For those not from the Jerz, Nomad started their operation out of the back of an REO Speedwagon (the truck, not the band), which still rocks and rolls today. [The Feast]


About Tikk Measurez: Tikk Measurez, born in Hampton and raised in Manassas VA, has been rapping and recording music since 2004. Tikk's music brings you street swag from a VA point of view. Tikks music is a treasure chest filled with natural swag, gritty lyrics, and emotional content grouped together on hard hitting beats. His songs draw you into the moment. They create a audio collage of the moment that pulls you into the song.
Tikk Measurez highly popular mixtapes 'In the Mix' and 'Some Things Never Change' were followed up by VA Hustle Muzik, Vol. 1 in 2008. This was the first in a series of mixtapes that showcased his raw look at life in the streets of Virginia with songs such as 'VA Shyt" and 'I'm Ballin'. In November 2010 Tikk Measurez hit a roadblock in life and music when his older brother was murdered in Hampton VA. After a year of reflection on his brothers death, Tikk Measurez decided to continue his pursuit for his passion of music. "My Brother would have wanted it this way" Tikk says.
Now working harder and more focused than ever Tikk Measurez is committing himself to the studio and perfecting his craft. He is currently working on his new album entitled "Life Is What We Make It" due to be digitally released in the Fall of 2012. In the meantime Tikk is regaining fans by putting out new songs every week on his website TikkMeasurez.com. Tikk wants his fans to get involved and choose what songs should go on his album.


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Five great coastal drives in Ireland
From cliff-side roads to scenic trails – buckle up, you're in for a ride!
From breathtaking cliff-side roads along the Wild Atlantic Way to stunningly scenic routes through Northern Ireland – take a seat and buckle up, you're in for quite a ride!
#RoadTrips
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For a relatively small island, Ireland is framed by a wide variety of coastal road trips. In Northern Ireland, the Causeway Coastal Route journeys past golden beaches and sprawling glens. On the Wild Atlantic Way, the Ring of Beara loops around wild landscapes and colourful villages. We could go on!
Of course, exploring world-famous cities such as Dublin and Belfast is a must on a visit here. But, if you fancy getting off the beaten track, then taking to the open road is one of the best ways to do so. You'll discover quaint seaside towns, jaw-dropping natural beauty, and if you get lost along the way, there'll always be a friendly local face to help out with directions.
So, start your engine, it's time to get all revved up for five of the best coastal drives on the island of Ireland...
Ring of Beara, County Cork
1. Ring of Beara, County Cork
The Ring of Beara is a 140 km route that loops around the remote Beara Peninsula in West Cork. While it's less well-known than the nearby Ring of Kerry in County Kerry, this beautiful drive is no less spectacular.
This is a world of giant seascapes and endless skies. Nestled in these vast landscapes are the unmissable villages of Allihies and Eyeries. With brightly painted buildings, friendly locals, and lots of places to eat and drink, they're ideal pit stops on this drive.
If you fancy ditching the car for a bit, the Beara Way is a great trail for walkers and cyclists alike. Other highlights? Garnish Island in Glengarriff is a garden island of rare beauty. While Bere Island in Bantry Bay is a picturesque spot for walking, cycling, and birdwatching.
Mourne Coastal Route, County Down
2. Mourne Coastal Route, County Down
Welcome to the giant landscapes of Northern Ireland. Starting off in the city of Newry, the Mourne Coastal Route takes you from the picturesque shores of Carlingford Lough, up along the coastline towards Belfast. Stunning views of the Mourne Mountains and the Irish Sea abound on what must surely be one of the most scenic road journeys on the island of Ireland.
The route meanders by some of County Down's top sights, such as Kilbroney Park and Rostrevor Forest, both excellent places to venture into the great outdoors. Charming towns and villages are dotted along the way, too, of course, chief among them Annalong and Kilkeel – the latter of which is known as the "seafood capital of the Mournes".
Golfers should make a beeline for Royal County Down Golf Club, one of the most famous links courses in the world. Whereas hikers can take on a peak or two in the Mournes. Slieve Donard is an imposing but enjoyable challenge.
The Burren Loop, County Clare
3. The Burren Loop, County Clare
The Burren is one of the most otherworldly regions on the island of Ireland. A rocky limestone landscape that has formed over hundreds of millions of years, this vast, moon-like area in County Clare is home to many hidden treasures.
The Burren Loop itself hugs the craggy coastline by the North Atlantic Ocean, as it weaves past the cute village of Doolin and the surfing hotspot of Lahinch, before heading inland and around the Burren National Park.
Key stops along the route include Aillwee Cave, the award-winning Burren Smokehouse, and a true showstopper – the Cliffs of Moher.
Nature lovers should be on the lookout for flora and fauna of the Burren, such as falcons, badgers, and orchids, all of which somehow thrive in this seemingly harsh, stony landscape.
Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland
4. Causeway Coastal Route, Northern Ireland
The Causeway Coastal Route is an epic road trip along Ireland's northern coastline, from Belfast across to Derry~Londonderry. Pristine beaches, cliff-top castles, cosy towns, and much more awaits.
Highlights? How long have you got?! Thrill-seekers should head to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, suspended high above the ocean waves. History buffs will love Dunluce Castle, which is dramatically perched on a County Antrim cliffside. And EVERYONE has to experience the Giant's Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and geological wonder.
This is also Game of Thrones® territory, with filming locations such as Binevenagh mountain and Downhill beach along the route in County Londonderry.
For food, try the fresh local seafood at Harry's Shack. Partial to a tipple? Stop into The Bushmills Inn. If you haven't realised by now, this coastal drive has got the lot.
Copper Coast Drive, County Waterford
5. Copper Coast Drive, County Waterford
The Copper Coast Drive in County Waterford is home to some of the most spectacular scenery on the island of Ireland. Cliffs, beaches, coves, and bays are all ready and waiting to be explored, just a short hop from Waterford city. In fact, such is the beauty of this stretch of coastline, that it has been deemed a UNESCO Global Geopark.
Tramore is a top hub to hit along this route. The seaside town has a vast sandy beach which is always popular with holidaymakers. The harbour town of Dungarvan is also a worthwhile stop. Cyclists can embark on the Waterford Greenway from here. While foodies should make a booking for The Tannery, an award-winning restaurant run by chef Paul Flynn.
For an off-the-beaten-track adventure, head inland to Dunhill Castle. These impressive castle ruins have been standing tall for some 800 years.
Do you feel like tasting wild Atlantic sea spray on your lips? Strolling through vibrant city streets? Exploring ancient ruins? Right this way…
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Q: How Prepreg types and number of plies affect mechanical and thermal properties of the PCB What are advantages and disadvantages when using a single ply of 7628 type prepreg as compared to say 2 plies of 1080 or a similar prepreg. I'm primarily concerned about any mechanical and/or thermal differences (advantages/disadvantages) that might arise. Most most of the resources i found on the internet focus on the electrical performance which is fairly well understood.
I've read somewhere (cannot find now where) that higher fiber-glass content may affect the feature size (higher surface roughness) and the min hole size (higher fiberglass density tends to dull drill bits more often).
If I want to maintain a certain voltage isolation between two copper layers, is it better to go with 7628 (high glass content) or 2 x 1080 (higher resin content).
Some usefull resources I used
Whitepapers at Isola group website (link to website)
Shengyi materials (link to website)
Disclamer
I'm not extensively familiar with this matter. The two links I posted above were two primary resources I used to inform myself about the matter. What I did see that few times my PCB manufacturer would use say 6 x 106 prepreg between the cores. This left me wondering why is that, and why not simply use thicker prepreg like 7628. Is this purely a convenience where the manufacturer used the prepreg material type that was available to him or there are some other reasons?

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


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Greenville activists to commemorate Juneteenth, call for reparations
Events schedule for throughout Upstate
Kylie Jones
THEY ARE COLLECTING CANNED AND DRIED FDOO FOR THE PANTRY. TOMORROW WILL MARK THE FIRST YEAR JUNETEENTH IS RECOGNIZED AS A FEDALER HOLIDAY. PRESIDENT BIDEN SIGNED THE BILL ACKNOWLEDGING THE 12th FEDERAL HOLIDAY. WHAT IS DIFFERENT ABOUT JUNETEENTH THIS YEAR? GOOD AFTERNN,OO KYLIE. >> WE,LL GOOD AFTERNOON. ONE ORGANIZER HERE IN GREENVILLE TELLS MEHE T ESTABLISHMENT OF JUNETEENTH AS A FEDERAL HOLIDAY IS A SIGNIFICANT MOMENT IN HISTORY. IT DOESN'T COME WITHOUT CRITICISM THOUGH SOMEAY SHE T HOLIDAY ALONE ISN'T JUSTICE. >> AFTER MORE TNHA 100 YEARS JUNE 19th IS NOW A FEDALER HOLIDAY. >> WE ARE SURVIVORS. >> JUNETEENTH COMMEMORATES THE END OF SLAVERY. JUNE 19, 1865. UNION SOLDIERS BROUGHT THE NEWS TO FREEDOM OF ENSLAVED PEOPLE IN TEXAS. TWO YEARS AERFT THE CONFEDETERA SURRENDERED. >> THE NOTION THAT YOU COULD HEAL WITHOUT JUSTICE IS A FOOL'S ERA. >> NOW SOMERE A CALLING FOR REPA RATIONS. >> WE -REP RAARATIONS. >> W AREE TALKING ABOUT WHAT HAS HAPPENED OVER THE PAST 400 YEARS. >> REPAIR RATIONS -- REPAIRATIONS CAN TAKE DIFFERENT FORMS. >> THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT HAS TO ASSUME RESPONSIBILITY FOR ITS ROLEN I CREATING THAT WEALTH GAP. IN CREATING THE HEAHLT GAP. THE EDUTICAON GAP. >> TOMORROW AFTERNOON THEY ARE HOINLDG A DAY OF COMMEMORATION AS SURVIVORS. BUT SHE ADDS THE RECOGNITI OFON JUNETEENTH IS JUST A JUMPING OFF POINT. >> WE CAN BEGIN TO IN FACT MOVE FORWARD WITH THE ESTABLISHMENT OFREPARATION. >> TTHA EVENT WILL BE HELD AT 1:00 AT THE CONFEDERATE MEMORIAL IN DOWNTOWN GREENVILLE. THER WEILL BE ANOTHER EVENT DOWN THE STREET. THE JUNETEENTH FREEDOMAY D CELEBRATION AT 2:00 NEAR
This year marks the first time Juneteenth will be recognized as a federal holiday in the U.S.President Joe Biden signed the bill earlier this week, acknowledging June 19 as the 12th federal holiday.The Upstate is holding several events Saturday to commemorate the holiday. Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers brought the news of freedom to enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas. This was around two months after the Confederacy surrendered and around two years after the Emancipation Proclamation freed slaves in the South."We're past being victims," Efia Nwangaza, with the South Carolina Reparations Coalition, said. "We are survivors."Nwangaza said the establishment of Juneteenth as a federal holiday is a significant moment in history. But some say the holiday doesn't signify full justice. "It's a hollow gesture," she said. "The notion that you can heal without justice is a fool's error."The call from Nwangaza and many others now comes for reparations."We're not talking about just what happened during the holocaust of slavery," Nwangaza said. "We're talking about what has happened over the past 400 years."She said reparations can take different forms and means something different for everyone. Nwangaza said reparations can come in the form of money, land or resources to bridge gaps in society. "The federal government has to assume responsibility for its role in creating that wealth gap," Nwangaza said. "In creating the health gap. The education gap."On Saturday, Nwangaza said they're holding a day of commemoration as survivors. But she added, the recognition of Juneteenth is just a jumping-off point. "We can, in fact, begin to move forward with the establishment or reparations," she said.The event, held by the Greenville-based group of the South Carolina Reparations Coalition, is Saturday at 1 p.m. at the Confederate Memorial Park in Greenville.The Young Democrats of Greenville County are also holding the Second Annual Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration from 2 p.m.-9 p.m. It will be at the Peace Center TD Stage in Greenville. Below is a complete list of the Juneteenth events scheduled for Saturday:11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Seneca Juneteenth Celebration: Norton Thompson Park, downtown Seneca11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Juneteenth Tillman Rally: State House, 1100 Gervais Street, Columbia1 p.m. Day of Commemoration and Outrage: Confederate Memorial Park and Soldier Statue, 400 North Main Street, Greenville2 p.m. – 9 p.m. South Carolina Democratic Party Juneteenth Celebration: Peace Center TD Stage, 301 South Main Street, Greenville2:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Father's Day Juneteenth Celebration: College Park Neighborhood Association, 248 Pioneer Place, Spartanburg6 p.m. Juneteenth at Carolina Wren Park: Anderson Area Remembrance and Reconciliation Initiative, 111 E Whitner Street, Anderson
GREENVILLE, S.C. —
This year marks the first time Juneteenth will be recognized as a federal holiday in the U.S.
President Joe Biden signed the bill earlier this week, acknowledging June 19 as the 12th federal holiday.
Greenville celebrates first federally-recognized Juneteenth holiday
The Upstate is holding several events Saturday to commemorate the holiday.
Juneteenth commemorates the end of slavery. On June 19, 1865, Union soldiers brought the news of freedom to enslaved Black people in Galveston, Texas. This was around two months after the Confederacy surrendered and around two years after the Emancipation Proclamation freed slaves in the South.
"We're past being victims," Efia Nwangaza, with the South Carolina Reparations Coalition, said. "We are survivors."
Nwangaza said the establishment of Juneteenth as a federal holiday is a significant moment in history. But some say the holiday doesn't signify full justice.
"It's a hollow gesture," she said. "The notion that you can heal without justice is a fool's error."
The call from Nwangaza and many others now comes for reparations.
"We're not talking about just what happened during the holocaust of slavery," Nwangaza said. "We're talking about what has happened over the past 400 years."
She said reparations can take different forms and means something different for everyone. Nwangaza said reparations can come in the form of money, land or resources to bridge gaps in society.
"The federal government has to assume responsibility for its role in creating that wealth gap," Nwangaza said. "In creating the health gap. The education gap."
On Saturday, Nwangaza said they're holding a day of commemoration as survivors. But she added, the recognition of Juneteenth is just a jumping-off point.
"We can, in fact, begin to move forward with the establishment or reparations," she said.
The event, held by the Greenville-based group of the South Carolina Reparations Coalition, is Saturday at 1 p.m. at the Confederate Memorial Park in Greenville.
The Young Democrats of Greenville County are also holding the Second Annual Juneteenth Freedom Day Celebration from 2 p.m.-9 p.m. It will be at the Peace Center TD Stage in Greenville.
Below is a complete list of the Juneteenth events scheduled for Saturday:
11 a.m. - 9 p.m. Seneca Juneteenth Celebration: Norton Thompson Park, downtown Seneca
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Juneteenth Tillman Rally: State House, 1100 Gervais Street, Columbia
1 p.m. Day of Commemoration and Outrage: Confederate Memorial Park and Soldier Statue, 400 North Main Street, Greenville
2 p.m. – 9 p.m. South Carolina Democratic Party Juneteenth Celebration: Peace Center TD Stage, 301 South Main Street, Greenville
2:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Father's Day Juneteenth Celebration: College Park Neighborhood Association, 248 Pioneer Place, Spartanburg
6 p.m. Juneteenth at Carolina Wren Park: Anderson Area Remembrance and Reconciliation Initiative, 111 E Whitner Street, Anderson


Don't delay your summer vacation, just look at these simple cost cutting measures to get the most out of your next trip. Here are 10 summer travel tips.
A great summer travel tip is to be flexible. This is the best tip we can provide. The trick is to be flexible with your travel plans to get the most mileage from your dollar. Many destinations are fighting over business right now, and you never know who's going to come out with the next great deal. Plus, being spontaneous about your travel destination can be half the fun of the vacation.
2. Summer Travel Tips: Start Your Paperwork Now!
One great summer travel tip is to start your paperwork now. First things first. Even if you don't have a specific trip in mind, get your passport. Processing times (without extra rush fees) can take a month or more and a new travel deal can be here and gone in as quick as 24 hours. Some travel deals are too good to pass up and the key is to act fast.
Here's another summer travel tip: know your price range. You are more likely to take that dream vacation if you set aside your funds ahead of time. Alternatively, you could also set a clear target price range for your trip. Once that goal is set, you'll feel more comfortable in locating and purchasing your vacation quickly.
Would you rather lie on the beach all day or see as many sights as you can? It's best to identify the type of vacation you and your travel companions want up front. Here are three types of vacations to consider. It's an important summer travel tip, pick the place best suited for you.
1. Beach destinations: Resorts are bending over backwards to attract tourists to their beaches, so this year you can soak up the sun in any number of places. The Caribbean, Mexico, San Diego, and Hawaii all have outstanding savings and package deals.
2. Big city vacations: Take a bite out of the Big Apple with some amazing New York City sales, or let loose in Las Vegas. This is also true across the pond. Europe is a dream destination, and with multiple four-season cities like Paris and Madrid, you can have a great trip any time of year.
3. Outdoor Adventures: Some people think this is for adrenaline junkies alone, but thrill seeking doesn't always require a big physical commitment or giving up luxury. Try Costa Rica and explore the beautiful cloud rain forest canopies, all while enjoying great accommodations.
Here's a hot summer travel tip: Bundled pricing makes your vacation planning easy. All-inclusive resort vacations are being offered at some of the best prices in years and are perfect for a cross-generational family beach vacation. Everyone can eat, stay and play at an all-inclusive resort with one set price. Plus, most resorts offer a 'kids camp' so that the parents can enjoy some downtime with a fruity drink and a book by the pool-a rarity on most family vacations.
Masses of people attend Carnival in Brazil in February. Travellers flock to Pamplona, Spain, for the Running of the Bulls in July. College kids flood Cancun for Spring Break. These events drive prices up. On the flip side, Paris and other European cities are quiet during August because locals are on summer holiday, so it's cheap and you'll have easier access to activities than at busier times of the year. Summer travel tip: keep seasonal trends in mind.
One summer travel tip on when to fly: You can save hundreds of dollars just by shifting your flights by one day. You'll find the best fares generally are reserved for midweek travel. Tuesdays and Wednesdays are particularly good, especially for international flights.
Summer travel tip: Be sure to look for and compare extras when making your booking decision. You should ask when you check-in at the front desk about any available upgrades or freebies as they don't cost hoteliers too much and increase the value of your stay and experience.
Great summer travel tip to keep in mind: The deal might look amazing at first, but think about how much you'll be spending on food, entertainment, and shopping while you're travelling. Now, imagine if your dollar only went half as far as it could have somewhere else. Take currency differences into consideration and you'll really stretch your travel dollars… as much as two or threefold!
10. Summer Travel Tips: Go Online ASAP!
Social media also offer a way to save. From promotional discounts and contest giveaways to the latest in travel deals, it is becoming easier to have other people bring the information to you via Twitter or Facebook. By simply following travel experts like @travel_ticker on Twitter and keeping an eye on popular hashtags (e.g. #TravelTuesday), consumers can let the deals find them.


Founded in 2011 by Wagner Alberti and Scott Menzies, A&M Imports is located in the Port of Baltimore and is the exclusive importer of fine Brazilian wines and beer.
Our mission is to nationally market and distribute quality Brazilian wines as well as educate the general public on Brazil's exceptional capacity for the production of superior wines and beer.
Having done business in Brazil for the last 23 years I have had the privilege of making many wonderful Brazilian friends. I was again most fortunate to re-unite on a trip last year with a fellow named Wagner Alberti. Wagner worked for me 20 years ago in Baltimore as an intern doing market research. Wagner went back to Brazil in 1991 and I went on to grow a Logistics Company to become the largest Forest Products Import facility in the USA.
Fast forward one year later and we have A & M (Alberti/Menzies) Imports LLC. We have a long term agreement with the flagship wine producer of Brazil ….Vincola Salton of Tuity in the State of Rio Grande do Sol. Salton is the largest producer of high quality wines in Brazil. A very traditional fourth generation family of Italian immigrants who today control 42% share of the Brazilian sparkling wine market and they produce an incredible line of terrific wines.
The Port of Baltimore will be our home port and the central office and epi center of our distribution network generating cargo for the Port of Baltimore and jobs to handle the necessary logistics. We will grow the Brazilian wines in the USA market based on their great quality and fantastic value. We have many restaurants and retailers very excited about having great quality Brazilian wines available for their customers to experience and enjoy.
It is a dream come true for me and I know for Wagner as well to be business partners representing Vincola Salton of Brazil. We have our next generation of family now coming into the business and they will work with us along with the Salton team and family to develop the wines of Brazil in the USA.
A&M Imports has partnered with Brazil's flagship winery, Vinicola Salton, and is honored to be representing their products here in the United States.


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Inauguration Update Joe Biden calls for unity as he is sworn-in as 46th president
Tabernacle Choir's 'Let Us All Press On' tops Billboard's Classical Traditional chart
By Christine Rappleye@CTRappleye Mar 23, 2019, 8:23am MDT
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"Let Us All Press On" is an album by the Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square.
Provided by Deseret Book
SALT LAKE CITY — "Let Us All Press On: Hymns of Praise and Inspiration," a recently released album by The Tabernacle Choir and Orchestra at Temple Square, is in the top spot on the Billboard's Classical Traditional chart, according to an announcement from the choir.
It's the 13th time that an album by the choir has been on top of the Classical Traditional list, according to the announcement.
It's also No. 3 on Billboard's Classical Album chart.
"We're always pleased when the work of these talented performers is well-received by the public," said Choir President Ron Jarrett. "We know that the music of the choir and orchestra can bring peace and healing to those who listen. Our desire is that this "Let Us All Press On" CD will bring those blessings to all who need them."
"Let Us All Press On," which is the choir's first full-length album of hymns in almost seven years, features 14 songs, including "More Holiness Give Me," "All Creatures of Our God and King," "Guide Us, O Thou Great Jehovah" and "Brightly Beams Our Father's Mercy."
It also includes "Our Prayer to Thee," with text written by President Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He wrote the words in 2003, and it was first performed as a hymn in April of that same year at the church's general conference, where it was matched to a tune by composer Joseph Parry.
"We are grateful for the response to this latest recording by the Choir and Orchestra," said Mack Wilberg, music director of The Tabernacle Choir, in the announcement. "We gave the album the subtitle of 'Hymns of Praise and Inspiration' and our hope is that the recording's music can provide the inspiration and uplift that so many are looking for in the world today."
"Let Us All Press On" is available now on iTunes, Amazon and DeseretBook.com.
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Maruti Suzuki India Ltd has launched the 2018 Maruti Suzuki Ciaz facelift in the auto markets of India with ex-showroom [Delhi] prices starting from Rs 8.19 lakh and going up to Rs 10.97 lakh. Most importantly the 2018 Maruti Suzuki Ciaz facelift comes powered to a 1.5 litre petrol engine with smart hybrid technology. Besides that 2018 Maruti Suzuki Ciaz facelift comes loaded with more features, modified styling and updated interiors. The 2018 Maruti Suzuki Ciaz facelift is the first upgrade of the Maruti Suzuki Ciaz launched back in 2014.
2018 Maruti Suzuki Ciaz facelift is available in seven colour options – Pearl midnight Black, Nexa Blue, Pearl metallic dignity brown, metallic premium silver, pearl snow white, pearl sangria red and metallic magma grey. Maruti Suzuki India provides three wheel options to the 2018 Maruti Suzuki Ciaz facelift – 15 inch precision cut alloy, 15 inch steel and 15 inch silver alloy wheels with full wheel caps. The 2018 Maruti Suzuki Ciaz petrol variant is priced starting from Rs 8.19 lakh extending upto Rs 10.97 lakh while the diesel engine variant is priced staring from Rs 9.19 lakh extending up to Rs 10.97 lakh. All the fore mentioned prices are ex-showroom prices.
The 2018 Maruti Suzuki Ciaz facelift is offered in four variants – Alpha, Delta, Sigma and Zeta. The 2018 Maruti Ciaz comes with new fog headlamps, revised central air drum, a new set of bumpers, revised front grille and a new headlamp assembly. This four – wheeler features a new front end design with a more stooped stance. The top of the line variant of the 2018 Ciaz are provided with chromo door handles. The exterior updates include the multiple alloy wheel design and rear windshield spoiler as well.
The interior of the new Ciaz get a birch blonde finish. 2018 Maruti Suzuki Ciaz comes equipped with two digital screens – one on the dashboard and other on the instrument control. The 7 inch driver information screen is installed with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay connectivity and in built navigation system. The other interior features include rear sun shades and rear seat entertainment with a DVD playback options. Cruise control, hill hold assist, seat belt reminder, electronic stability program and speed alert system are offered as standard safety features.
The 2018 Maruti Suzuki Ciaz is powered to the new 1.5 litre K series petrol engine with mild hybrid technology, which delivers a power of 104 bhp and produces a peak torque of 130 Nm. The 1.3 litre diesel engine also comes with mild hybrid technology churns out a power of 91 PS and produces 200Nm torque. 2018 Maruti Suzuki Ciaz takes on the likes of the Toyota Yaris, Honda city and Hyundai Verna.


These are very very nice. I completed them in late January 2002. Again, sorry about the pictures. The finish is Krylon faux stone stuff. I actually did these and decided to make the Paraglows match. I installed the cheap Michael Percy spike feet before I did the finish. These have the updated crossovers. I built the crossovers on peg board that is bolted to the bottoms and sides. The bolts were installed before I did the finish as well. The boards are attached with washers and nuts. I made the cat hair shields (aka grills) from wood and parts from Madisound.
I currently have my speakers bi-wired. A while back, I made some nice jumpers with Doc's magnet wire and tried them for a few weeks. After that, I tried the bi-wiring again and liked it better. With the jumpers, cymbals had no body or sustain. I don't understand why the jumpers didn't sound as good but to me, it was quite a difference.


Decoration, carpets & curtains and acc.
Wishing Cards and Party Acc.
Epson Black ink Cartridge #126 "T126120-S"
Epson Black ink Cartridge #68 "T068120-D2"
Epson Cyan ink Cartridge "T054220"
Cartridge LC51Y YELLOW (BRO) compatible.
Cartridges #02 CYAN P (HP)compatible.


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Who is this 90s sex symbol?
He was the star of a film which won twelve local and international film awards in 1992. Do you know who he is?
by Candace Sutton
30th Mar 2018 5:14 AM
IN 1992 his slinky body slid across the stage in an iconic Australian movie which won twelve local and international film awards and made him an instant star.
The son of a US character actor, he had enjoyed a stage career in another form of entertainment before the role which made him a household name.
It paved the way for a string of movie credits which saw his career on a high burn for the rest of that decade, with guest appearances in some of Australia's most highly acclaimed TV shows and starring stage roles.
It led to a collaboration with Hollywood stars like Will Smith and an American TV campaign for Coca-Cola.
But when he appeared on television last week, as a guest celebrity contestant on the new Rove McManus TV show, his mature appearance had audiences guessing.
Can you guess who the balding man with the Dad bod and the refreshing lack of ego is?
This affable father of three and guest celebrity on the new Rove movie show was a film star and sex symbol of the 1990s.
Yes, it's Strictly Ballroom star Paul Mercurio.
He appeared on Rove's new 'Show Me the Movies'.
The fact that the now 54-year-old father of three and affable cooking show host is largely unrecognisable was blatantly pointed out when Rove's "Show Me The Movies" featured on Gogglebox on Easter Thursday.
As Gogglebox contestants gasped and gawked at Mercurio's middle-aged looks and receding hairline, one of them quipped, "Strictly Baldroom more like it".
Mercurio was a ballet dancer as a child, the son of gravel-voiced American actor Gus Mercurio OAM, whose 60-year performing career spanned radio, television and film.
Paul Mercurio in the role that made him famous, as the lead in Baz Luhrmann's Strictly Ballroom.
Paul Mercurio was appointed principal dancer with the Sydney Dance Company, while still a teenager, and held the position for a decade.
Paul Mercurio revisits his starring role on the 25th anniversary of Strictly Ballroom last year.
He went on to found the Australian Choreographic Ensemble, but cast in his film debut in the leading role of Baz Luhrmann's Strictly Ballroom he swept to fame in 1992.
More Australian films like Cosi and Welcome to Woop Woop were to follow, and roles in Blue Heelers, All Saints, Murder Call, Medivac, Heartbreak High and Water Rats.
He won the lead role in the Emmy award-winning US TV miniseries The Bible: Joseph, and acted as a movement consultant on the Will Smith movie I, Robot.
Mercurio was a judge on Dancing With The Stars in both Australia and New Zealand, and more recently hosted cooking show Mercurio's Menu which highlights regional Australian cuisine.
He has been married to his wife Andrea for 30 years and they have three adult daughters, Elise, Emily and Erin.
Mercurio on the set of Show Me The Movies on Channel Ten last week.
His hit movie made him an international name.
Mercurio (right) and co-star Tara Morice bust a move on the set of 1992's Strictly Ballroom.
Paul Mercurio and his wife Andrea with their three daughters Elise, Emily and Erin.
actor australian editors picks sex sexy
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Crime Elizabeth Jane Sbresni said she was trying to get off drugs.


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Blacklands Railroad
A general discussion about shortlines, industrials, and military railroads
Class III: Short Line, Industrial, Military, Terminal and Railroad Holding Companies General Discussion: Short Lines, Industrials, and Military « You are here
Moderator: Aa3rt
by #7470
Hi. I was hoping someone here knows of the Blacklands Railroad in Sulphur Springs, Texas. I am inquiring of the #108 Baldwin 2-6-2 "Prairie" locomotive that once resided on North Conway New Hampshire at the Conway Scenic Railroad. I know it was moved to the Blacklands back in 98 or 99. I was wondering if anyone knows the current status of the locomotive. I know it was supposed to be restored but was disassembled and from what I heard further funding of the project was ceased. Can anyone help me out?
Re: Blacklands Railroad Texas #108
by Reader#108
I have some info for you........I sent an e-mail to Blacklands Railroad. The president of the company informed me that Baldwin 2-6-2 #108 is in pieces waiting to be restored by the Robbins Rail Museum in AL. The Blacklands does not own the engine anymore, and it is still in Sulpher Springs awaiting this process. I personally think that it is a shame that a locomotive that was intact for the most part when purchased, is being left to sit awaiting a restoration 15 years in the waiting. I just purchased a postcard of #108 from Sulpher Springs, and the date is Dec 1999, just after purchase. It has a fence around it, the smoke stack is missing, the red identifier on the front is missing, and it looks like someone was trying to work on it.
--------Bill------- http://www.preciousescapes.webs.com and
https://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Preci ... 4390695506
Reader#108
Milepost 101 on the MEC Line
Yeah it is sad that it is in peices now and was once oporating on the Conway Scenic not too long ago. But I am glad to see that it will at least be restored. Its great to know that this piece of history is being preserved and not thrown away. Thanks for the great information.
As far as the 108 went for the Conway Scenic, I know that there were a lot of problems with her. Some of these such as something about stay bolts breaking a lot. And also the 108 was not powerful enough for the railroad. And I know the 3 1/2 grade coming into the Station at North Conway was often a problem for the 108. It was replaced and put into storage. Its unfortunate that it wasnt stored in the roundhouse or covered up but like i said before at least it will be restored.
Newer info.....if you Bing Baldwin 2-6-2 Steam locomotive #108 you get an announcement for its sale....yet again....
by drvmusic
Anyone know of any updates? Last I heard was that it's still in pieces, rusting, and overgrown.
drvmusic
Re: Blacklands Railroad
by Jeff Smith
https://www.progressiverailroading.com/ ... ort--54684" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
A Blacklands Railroad subsidiary has opened a transloading and storage terminal at the Northern Nevada Railport and Logistics Center in Fernley, Nevada, the Northern Nevada Development Authority (NNDA) announced yesterday.
The subsidiary, Black Gold Rail Terminals: Northern Nevada, will help the short line meet its intermodal, logistics and distribution needs in a cost-effective manner, according to an NNDA press release.
Currently, Sulphur Springs, Texas-based Blacklands Railroad is investing $1 million for additional track and a locomotive, NNDA officials said. It is the first short line to establish a transloading and storage terminal in northern Nevada.
Next stop, Willoughby
~el Jefe ("Jeff Smith Rules") :: RAILROAD.NET Site Administrator/Co-Owner
If it's Tuesday, It Must Be Belgium
by ConwayScenic252
Still curious on what is up with #108. Is it accessible to the public?
ConwayScenic252
Main Power for the Mountaineer since 2011.
by NHV 669
700 N Davis St
https://maps.app.goo.gl/HsehW9m6kxUUaN2v5
Assuming that's it, rusting away on a storage track.
Avatar: NHV 669 at the south end of the "Pompy" in White River Jct., VT on 4/29/1993. Photo by Richard Roberg.
NHV 669
Return to "General Discussion: Short Lines, Industrials, and Military"
Amherst Show 2023
#14 Orange Line Cars 1400-1551 (From Red/Orange Procurement ...
by jwhite07
Potential PAR/PAS Traffic Growth
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CSX Track Upgrades & Infrastructure of Pan Am
by Gilbert B Norman


It was the beginning of a summer vacation. John was resting at the lake with his girlfriend Susan.
The couple enjoyed themselves lying on a blanket in the open outdoors surrounded by nature. All they could hear were the rustling leaves and twittering birds. Hooting cars and wailing sirens were far away. Finally they got away from the problems and the noise of a big city. John decided to swim across the lake. He was fit as a fiddle and the water seemed delightfully warm. He squinted at Susan and saw her sleeping so decided to go without telling her, in order not to wake her up. He didn't have anything to make him noticeable in the water. Without a warm- up, spontaneously, he jumped into the lake. While he was swimming, all of a sudden he got a cramp in his leg and began to drown himself. He started to panic. It was touch and go but fortunately some fishermen were nearby on a boat and heard him crying for help. They made him out and In the last moment came and yanked him aboard.


In case you just moved in to a home that needs renovation, chances are that you will need to start a renovation project In most cases, we are confused where we should start, and end up doing the same job twice. Your priority should be to make your house weatherproof and safe, and then you can start thinking about styling, design, and decoration. Below you will find a few tips on how to prioritize your home improvements to make the most out of your budget and time.