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Welcome to the Official Site of the Wichita And Affiliated Tribes
Commissioner Vacancy-Wichita Tribe Industrial Development Commission
The Wichita and Affiliated Tribes is seeking three (3) interested individuals to serve as Commissioners for the Wichita Tribe Industrial Development Commission. The individuals will be appointed to terms that end September 30, 2024, September 30, 2025 or September 30, 2027. Please send a letter of interest and resume documenting education and/or experience related to the position. The applicants may be tribal or non-tribal. The letter and resume must be sent to The Wichita and Affiliated Tribes, Attn: Myles Stephenson Jr., Secretary, P.O. Box 729, Anadarko, OK 73005, by fax at (405) 247-2430 or by email at myles.stephenson@wichitatribe.com by Friday, January 27, 2023.
Commissioner Vacancy-Wichita Gaming Commission
The Wichita and Affiliated Tribes is seeking an interested individual to serve as a Commissioner for the Wichita Gaming Commission. The individual will be appointed to an unexpired term that ends May 31, 2023 and will be reappointed to a 4 year term ending May 31, 2027. Please send a letter of interest and resume documenting education and/or experience related to the position. The letter and resume must be sent to The Wichita and Affiliated Tribes, Attn: Myles Stephenson Jr., Secretary, P.O. Box 729, Anadarko, OK 73005, by fax at (405) 247-2430 or by email at myles.stephenson@wichitatribe.com by Friday, January 27, 2023.
Wichita and Affiliated Tribes
American Rescue Plan (ARPA Department)
Homeowner Assistance Fund (HAF) Program
FY-2023
FOR APPLICATION-CLICK HERE
ARPA Response Household Assistance Program ApplicationGuidelines
A.R.P.A Response Household Assistance Program is available for any adult Wichita and Affiliated Tribes enrolled tribal member and will be administered under the ARPA Department. The services provided under this program at this time are utility bill relief, rental payment, mortgage payment, temporary housing assistance, direct client services, and incarcerated assistance. All applicants must submit a completed application with all of the required documents listed on application checklist. Applicants are required to submit a statement of explanation as to the circumstances to document a need for assistance. Other documentation may be required to verify eligibility or to verify there has been a negative economic impact endured by the household. Services are for One (1) time assistance per fiscal year October 1, 2022 through September 30, 2023.
You may apply for assistance under one of the following:
2023 RHAP Application
1. Utility Assistance (Bill or Deposit)
Assistance for utilities includes a maximum up to $500. The payment will be made directly to the vendor. A copy of the bill must be in the tribal members name and the bill must be provided with the application.
2. Rent Assistance (Bill or Deposit)
Assistance for rent includes a maximum up to $500. The payment will be paid directly to the landlord or housing office. Must have a lease agreement in place for current residence and provide a copy with the application. In the case of a request for Deposit Assistance then a rental agreement or letter showing the amount of the deposit must be provided.
3. Mortgage Payment
**MUST APPLY WITH THE HOMEOWNERS ASSISTANCE FUND (HAF) PROGRAM PRIOR TO RECEIVING THIS ASSISTANCE**Assistance for mortgage includes a maximum up to $500. The payment will be paid directly to the mortgage company. Must provide house payment agreement or letter from mortgage lender.
4. Incarceration Assistance
Once per fiscal year assistance, not to exceed $100.00 to tribal members who are impacted while being imprisoned or incarcerated and are seeking adequate care assistance. Prison crowding and lack of sanitation measures contribute to the risk of contracting the virus. This assistance does not apply to those tribal members who are currently housed in municipal or county jail.
5. Natural Disaster Relief
Assistance for disaster relief is set aside for Tribal Members that are directly affected by a natural disaster. Each request will be assessed case by case and capped off at $500. Anything needed that exceeds $500 has to be approved by the Wichita Executive Committee. (Types of assistance can vary whether it be groceries, clothing, basic necessities, hotel, relocation expenses, etc.) Proper paperwork must be in place to receive assistance and receipts are required for any purchases made with this assistance.
6. Elder Appliance Repair
To assist tribal members with repairs of a household appliance that is not functioning properly. assistance up to $150.00 for repairs. If appliance is unfixable and needs replaced, the program will assist with the purchase of a replacement appliance.
7. COVID-19 Direct Impact Assistance
For Tribal Members who have been directly impacted due to COVID-19. Approval is needed from the Wichita Executive Committee under this assistance and amount will be determined case-by-case.
8. Referrals-Internal Resources **Pre-eligibility is determined by total household income for referrals**
Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program(LIHEAP)
Community Service Block Grant(CSBG)
Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program(LIHWAP)
Wichita and Affiliated Tribes- General Assistance (OKLAHOMA RESIDENTS)
GENERAL ASSISTANCE APPLICATION
The Wichita and Affiliated Tribes General Assistance program is ongoing until depleted to Wichita tribal members who are not currently employed or unemployed due to COVID. The amount approved will be determined by household size. Those seeking to apply for General Assistance may do so by completing the application and providing the following required information:
CDIB-Certificate of Indian Blood
Proof of income and resources
No land letter from BIA
Applicant cannot be receiving or eligible for County/State Public Welfare or Social Security Income.
Must reside in the Designated Jurisdictions: Caddo, Kiowa, Comanche, Tillman, Cotton NO EXCEPTIONS
Applications may be accessed online at the tribe's website (www.wichitatribe.com) the program can fax, email, and mail any request for applications. Please give us a call at 405-247-2425 Ext.353 for any questions that you may have or Email- alicia.wheeler@wichitatribe.com.
Quiz Bowl
On Thursday, September 15, the after school program had a quiz bowl over the words and phrases they have learned so far this school year. The youth practice Wichita language daily thanks to the language app that was developed with the help of the late Doris McLemore. Prizes for the winners included backpacks donated by Dane Evans who is a Wichita Tribal member, and also one of Doris' grandchildren. Dane is a former quarterback for the University of Tulsa, and is currently playing for the Canadian Football League's Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Pictured are standing, left to right- Shaylene Courtney, Cailea Williams, Ombria Williams, Skylah Williams. Sitting left to right- Lily Williams, Ethan Puerta, Sasha Torres, Brandon Torres.
Congratulations to the 2022-2023 Wichita Tribal Princess, Isabella Fridia
Latest Updates on COVID-19 from the Wichita and Affiliated Tribes:
The Wichita and Affiliated Tribes' Tribal Offices are currently open to assist Tribal members with their needs. Please practice social distancing.
Tag Office require that you make an appointment before coming in.
Walk-ins are not guaranteed but can still be served if an appointment is available.
Please call the main number for more information 405-247-2425 or one of the numbers below.
We are currently available at the following numbers:
Maintenance/Elder Lawn Program 405-247-2425 Ext. 114
Education 405-247-2425 Ext. 171
EPA 405-247-2425 Ext. 141
Tribal Funded Social Services/LIHEAP 405-247-2425 Ext. 120
Indian Child Welfare 405-247-2425 Ext. 127
VOCA/Victims Advocate 405-247-2425 Ext. 130
Caregiver Program/AOA 405-247-2425 Ext. 115
Health Programs 405-247-2425 Ext. 157
Food Distribution 405-247-2425 Ext. 117
TOR/Substance Abuse 405-247-2425 Ext. 352
RISE Prevention 405-247-8824 Ext. 404
Native Connections 405-247-8817 Ext. 405
CCDF/Child Care Assistance 405-648-7095 Ext. 332
Communications 405-247-2425 Ext. 165
OTHER NEWS and INFORMATION:
Driveway Program - Gravel and Tinhorn Service
Tribe and BIA Sign Hydro, Okla. Trust Land Agreement
DIGITAL EDITIONS OF WICHITA TRIBAL NEWS
Archived Home Page Features


Homepage / Cars News / 2023 Ford F350: New Ford F-350 Looks Impressive With Trim Changes [Update]
2023 Ford F350: New Ford F-350 Looks Impressive With Trim Changes [Update]
By Cynthia CarnahanPosted on November 30, 2021 December 16, 2021
2023 Ford F350 The pick-up truck war never ends in Detroit as soon as all sorts of trims have started to appear and the most obvious is the appearance of the modified headlights that seem to be retaining the shape of the current lens.
at the bottom of the headlights are re-illuminated as daytime running lights or low beam headlights, and this isn't the first time Ford has become obsessed with the Super-duty F350. In past generations, the chord streamlined LED light signature to eliminate the odd dot matrix pattern was introduced at this time.
Back in the package and trim it appears the 2023 Ford F350 Sports a strange mix of top-run platinum jewelry with the black alloy wheels normally reserved for the aforementioned tremor. Of course, changing the tire package is very easy, you just need to adjust it according to your needs, but platinum equipped with tremors will be an attractive offer.
At the rear, we see mostly similar to today's trucks with no changes in the location of the trailer's wiring harness and the backup sensors that pop up in their usual places. The taillights appear to have several clear LEDs stacked vertically rather than the existing lenses, possibly indicating lighting that is unique to a particular team.
Again, changing the lighting sign without having to change the physical shape and dimensions of the lamp is a relatively inexpensive way to refresh the vehicle without incurring huge costs.
Outstanding hauling & towing talent
Muscular diesel engine options
Tough enough for the weekday, civilized enough for weekends
The updated infotainment system in top
Trim Lariat trim gets Sports Appearance package
King Ranch and Platinum models now exclusive to all-wheel-drive
Trim XLT now qualify for the Appearance Black package
2023 Ford F350 Preview
2023 Ford F350 Redesign
2023 Ford F350 Interior
2023 Ford F350 Exterior
2023 Ford F350 Color
Favorite Features
ULTIMATE TRAILER TOW CAMERA SYSTEM W/PRO TRAILER BACKUP ASSIST
OFF-ROAD TREMOR PACKS
2023 Ford F350 Engine
2023 Ford F350 Performance
2023 Ford F350 Towing and Payload Capacity
2023 Ford F350 Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
2023 Ford F350 Price
2023 Ford F350 Release Date
About the start of the 2023 Ford F350, We feel it will stick with platinum cream based on the chrome accents found on the rear-view mirror covers at the bottom of the windows.
Apart from that the 2023 Ford F350 is also pretty much wrapped in heavy camouflage which in our opinion this packaging hides the new design update, but we still hope that the design is getting better, more attractive and powerful, and of course more stylish with some other variations.
For the record using black wheels is the Off-Road Tremor package which has been discontinued for the Super Duty XLT trim but is still offered on the King Ranch and platinum variants so we hope that the offroad tremor will continue to run on the 2023 Ford F350 Super Duty model year.
As far as we know the 2023 Ford F350 has been eyed by Matai for a while now it seems that this time it will use black wheels on its newest type.
This food prototype 2023 Ford F350 which is often referred to as Super Duty Platinum has all the special features including chrome mirror caps and chrome strips along the bottom of the DLO trim window, but what you need to know is also the black wheels which are not yet available on the current generation type on the Platinum type. , but you can have it with other packages like Tremor of road.
Since this is still a prototype type it is highly probable that this wheel will be offered in the next generation 2023 Super Duty Platinum and may also be a replacement wheel used in testing and not intended for production models.
However, it is also necessary to know that the 2023 Super Duty SuperCab that Matai saw last week was wearing black wheels with a similar design.
Apart from the interesting tidbits this prototype also sports heavy camouflage on the front and checkered camo elsewhere as seen on all previous pick-ups.
Then the design of this car is of course still a mystery with the revised styling of the truck which is something new for the next generation. Moreover, the familiar end configuration of this Ford model car shows that a 6.6L v8 Powerstroke turbo diesel engine is on the hood under this prototype.
In addition to the most striking exterior changes, the next four generations have also upgraded several revised technological features as well as added features to the Ford F350 by introducing the self-driving feature which is a mainstay feature on the next 2023 Ford F350.
In the interior of the Ford Super Duty truck, a horizontally oriented measuring screen was added which made it easy to access the panels on this vehicle.
Related: 2023 Mitsubishi L200 First Look, New Barbarian X Trim Revealed
We appreciate Ford for his hard work in overhauling the 12-inch screen which has received a lot of positive comments.
As far as we know if you want to get that touch screen you have to choose a lariat model or higher with a Ford Sync 4 infotainment system with Apple CarPlay wireless capability and Android auto.
And we expect some more interactive makeovers on the inside of this 2023 Ford F350 vehicle.
Hello, we add the interior design of the dashboard is also sharp and the layout is practical we can judge the Super Duty interior is an ergonomic environment with direct controls and materials that are meant to be messy.
the process begins with the lariat trim level which introduces leather upholstery and high-end options such as ambient lighting and seat settings that can be hot and cold and also come with wireless power. But some chintzy parts make even the coolest interior models.
Buyers can choose two bed sizes the first is 6.75 feet and the second is a city with 8 feet, Cabin crew takes storage a step further with a lockable city under the back seat.
For Infotainment sophistication and connectivity the base model XL comes standard with a touchscreen for their infotainment system. The XLT type has an 8.0-inch touch screen with Apple car play, Android auto, and a wi-fi hotspot. As well as some upgrades with the B&O 10 speaker and SiriusXM satellite radio.
A pair of large volume and tuning buttons complete the dashboard area. As well as other physical buttons on the steering wheel make the whole system feel intuitive. Then the spacious cab can be equipped with enough accessories to run a Guns N' Roses concert including up to two 110 volt power points.
Changes to the exterior styling complement the chrome exhaust tips and black running boards. Meanwhile, this black display package was previously available on the Lariat type and this time it is available on the XLT type. It has also included a black 20-inch wheel bumper and body-color grille as well as a black running board and Ford Badge.
The base XL has 17-inch steel wheels as standard, the XLT uses 18-inch alloy wheels, and gets bigger in the more expensive trims. Due to its standard dual-rear-wheel setup, the F-450 has a wider front track than the rest of the lineup. The length of the bed is 6.75 feet and eight feet.
The new Sport Appearance package from the Lariat trim features a grille, mirror housings, and bumper in the same color as the body for those whose tastes tend to be less chrome. In the same vein, the Appearance Black package is now available with a lower XLT trim. Atlas Blue is on the list of exterior paint choices.
In the color section, visual changes occur in the new Atlas Blue exterior, the Baja interior color for the Lariat interior, Navy Pier and Light Slate for the Limited model, and several appearance packages for the F-250 and F-350.
Anything that makes life easier when towing a trailer especially when there's a turn to be made, and everything seems to go wrong is very welcome. This package (standard on King Ranch and up, optional on the lower three trims) provides 360-degree camera shots, reverse guidance, and trailer reverse guidance.
The Pro Trailer Backup Assist section means an automatic steering system controlled by a dial. It also works with fifth wheels and gooseneck adapters.
In addition to the pretty good FX4 Off-Road package, Super Duty 2022 offers this more extreme Tremor package. It includes special suspension components that increase ride height by two inches, Goodyear 35-inch all-terrain tires, front axle limited-slip differential, locking rear differential, and Trace Control, a sort of cruise control for difficult surfaces.
The 33-inch wading depth and rock-crawl mode make the Tremor-equipped Super Duty a true off-road fighter. And it is available in combination with a diesel engine.
On the entry-level XL trim, the 2022 Super Duty comes with single-zone air conditioning, vinyl flooring, and coating, remote start/lock/unlock, manually extendable side mirrors, trailer sway control, trailer tow package with 7- pin/4-pin connector, trailer hitch receiver, cargo bed light, and removable tailgate.
Safety features include automatic on/off headlights, hill start assists, and an SOS post-crash warning system. The infotainment system features Wi-Fi for up to 10 devices, AM/FM radio, MP3 player, 4.2-inch display, USB-C port, and four speakers.
The 2022 F-450 and F-550 Chassis Cabin models have a dual-rear-wheel setup as standard.
Beyond the engine, cab, bed length, and driven wheels, the 2022 Super Duty has trim levels starting at the more civilized XLT and then increasing in luxury through Lariat, King Ranch, Platinum, and Limited. The XLT adds carpeting, upholstery, collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, 18-inch alloy wheels, 110-volt power outlets, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration, satellite radio, navigation, and an 8-inch infotainment screen.
The Lariat features heated/powered extendable mirrors, dual-zone automatic temperature control, power-adjustable pedals, power-adjustable front seats, leather seating surfaces, leather-wrapped steering wheel, auto-dimming mirrors, rear parking sensors, and new updated Sync 4 infotainment system with a 12-inch touchscreen, speech voice command recognition, and 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen voice system.
Related: 2023 Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid Should Debut Later This Year
King Ranch only comes as a Crew Cab with all-wheel drive, as well as the Platinum and Limited variants. It also has a themed cabin with leather upholstery and wood trim, heated/ventilated front seats, memory settings for seats and front pedals, heated/power-adjusted steering wheel with memory settings, wireless charging, remote start, LED bed lights, 20 -inch alloy wheels, step tailgate, remote tailgate release and Ultimate Trailer Tow Camera System with Pro Trailer Backup Assist.
The Platinum features a power-retractable running board, LED fog lamps and taillights, massaging multi-contour front seats, and adaptive cruise control. The Limited tops the list with a dual-panel moonroof, quad-beam LED headlights, dark ash wood trim, expanded leather seats, adaptive steering, heavy-duty 332-amp alternator, and six upfitter switches.
Some features in higher terms are available in lower trims as options, such as the Ultimate Trailer Tow package. There are plenty of other additions to most of the 2022 Super Duty range, such as snowplow prep pack, FX4 Off-Road pack, Tremor off-road pack, storable loading ramps, five-wheel/gooseneck hitch preparation pack, liner spray bed, winch The 12,000-pound Warn, transmission power take-off, and aluminum cross-bed toolbox.
As you already know, the 2023 Ford F350 has come with a variant version of the 6.2-liter V-8 engine that produces 385 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque, although the 7.3-liter 430-hp V-8 engine and 6.7-liter Power Stroke diesel A V-8 with 475 horsepower and 1050 lb-ft of torque are both available.
Either rear or four-wheel drive is available, as is the six or 10-speed automatic transmission. The Super Duty truck can tow up to 24,200 pounds but reaches 37,000 pounds with a fifth-wheel hitch and a gooseneck.
All powertrains on the Ford Super Duty are Paired with rear or four-wheel drive and all modern can be equipped with more powerful engine options as well as offering an offroad package called tremor adding lift kits and slimmer tires along with other Road ready upgrades.
The 2023 Ford F350's performance was excellent it was able to perform as expected by a large rig pulling up to 19 tons. When unloaded the Ford f350 will feel light but the sensation is very smooth when the trailer is attached.
The most luxuriously priced trims perform better of course in terms of reducing wind and road noise on the highway, but this truck is also very responsive in the brake pedal, and maneuverability on the road is more convincing.
Drivers who have been around heavy-duty pickups for a long time are no doubt familiar with the manufacturer's old approach of calibrating their suspension to work best while the truck is being loaded. Luckily, things have progressed to where Super Tasks are civilized and structured under all circumstances.
The Adaptive Steering feature (standard on the top of the Limited trim, optional on the bottom of the bottom) is also an advantage when maneuvering at low speeds, taking a lot of effort.
Buyers won't have to shell out extra for the larger engine — the standard 6.2-liter V8 can handle most situations. Super Duty's highest payload capacity of 7,850 pounds is achieved with this engine in an F-350 with dual rear wheels and a Regular cab.
Most F-Series Super Duty trucks are rated to tow between 15,000 and 18,000 pounds. However, the 7.3-liter petrol V8 does come with a more modern and efficient 10-speed automatic transmission.
With various cabin configurations, the 2023 Ford F350 Super Duty has various maximum towing and payload capacities. and We believe Ford fans desperately want the strongest figure capable of carrying a 7850-pound payload.
The maximum towing capacity of the Super Duty will be an incredible 37,000 pounds, made possible by the massive 1,050 lb-ft of torque from the 6.7-liter turbodiesel V8 and gooseneck adapter.
When Ford changed powertrain options for its heavy-duty Cup trucks we also evaluated real-world mpg on fuel-efficient routes on the road. The 6.2-liter petrol V-8 with six-speed automatic remains the standard-setting on this model and we delivered 15 mpg on the highway. We hereby sincerely hope that the optional Super Duty power stroke diesel car will be the most fuel-efficient engine in its class.
There is no official price range yet, but our speculation is that the 2023 Ford F350 will start at:
XL $37,895 (Est)
XLT $42,370 (Est)
LARIAT $50,030 (Est)
King Ranch $65,995 (Est)
Platinum $69,310 (Est)
Limited $89,030 (Est)
The generation Ford F350 Super Duty was sold in the summer, however, we are still speculating that the 2023 Ford F350 will arrive next year and may also arrive in the summer.
Posted in Cars News


Shipping reform threatens jobs in rail
The Federal Government's plan to de-regulate coastal shipping will place 300 jobs at risk in Australia's rail freight sector and undermine the proposed Inland Rail project – according to the Rail, Tram and & Bus Union (RTBU).
RTBU National Secretary Bob Nanva today said the Abbott Government's coastal shipping reforms would not only decimate the domestic shipping industry – they would have repercussions right through the transport supply chain.
"Our discussions with employers have found that around ten per cent of the volume of containerised freight carried by rail could switch to foreign vessels under the new arrangements," Mr Nanva said.
"This would lead to around 300 jobs being lost straight off the bat in our industry, and would cause long-term damage to regional communities along major rail freight corridors."
EVEN PLAYING FIELD
Mr Nanva said the Federal Government had abandoned any semblance of competitive neutrality in the freight sector, brazenly gifting a huge competitive advantage to overseas-based shipping services.
"It's one thing to have different modes like rail, road and sea freight competing to provide the most efficient service – but there needs to at least be some sort of even playing field.
"Clearly that's not the case when flag of convenience vessels, that do not have to pay Australian wages or meet Australian safety standards, can compete openly in the domestic market.
"It's also bizarre that the Federal Government is pursuing a policy which will devalue the worth of its publicly-owned rail infrastructure manager, ARTC, just as it's looking to privatise the company.
"Furthermore, the Government is supposedly planning a huge investment in inland rail infrastructure – an investment which could become a stranded asset before it's even built."
WHERE'S THE STRATEGY?
Mr Nanva said the Abbott Government needed to stop its piece-meal approach to transport policy and start governing in the national interest.
"To any fair-minded observer, it looks like the Government's left hand doesn't know what the right hand is doing.
"Australia needs an integrated national freight strategy - one that ensures our transport system works in a cohesive and complementary way, while maximising jobs and securing the future of local industry."
RTBU submission to the Senate Standing Committee on Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport
Freight on Rail group's submission to the Senate Standing Committee on Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport


Jana Rothe
Clownesse
University of Applied Sciences Europe
Berlin/Hamburg, Germany
Contemporary, female* clowning: A niche of feminism. We all know clowns. Do we? Today, the figure is mostly associated with a cliche. Its affiliation to the circus (such as its' characteristic red nose) seems to be inseparable from the character. Additionally, its' scary depiction is gaining in popularity. Often used for racist or sexist behaviour in politics and media, the figure has even become a symbol of toxic masculinity. However, apart from the associated cliche and the clowns' medial representation, there is more to explore about the clown than its' red nose and wide grin: Clowns have been part of society for centuries. In different forms, they appeared to break conventions, live contradiction, defy directives, and cross borders, as they show the absurdity of normality. Being open to failure and playing with the darkest places of their soul, they want to relieve society of social constraints. They teach us to embrace the ridiculous, to drop the masks that we use in society while uncovering social and political structures. The clown figure has been playing a major influential role acting as a mirror of society. How come such a valuable role is mainly occupied by men? Which society is mirrored and who profits from the liberation of the social constraints? Did the lack of perspectives lead to the symbol, the clown has become today? "CLOWNESSE." looks for broader perspectives in the contemporary clownesse – a theme which the sociologist Delphine Cézard has been researching since 2015. According to Cézard, the characteristics of clowns proceed against female stereotypes. This not only leads to associating the term "clown" with males but also induces females to stay away from the department of clowning for a long time. A society producing stereotypes, which's thinking patterns are based on a patriarchal, discriminating system, offers the clownesse an opportunity for playing with difference and diversity today. In her being as a fool or an ugly Buffon, she can do what the male medial clown is less and less able to do: confuse, and thus come closer to the origin of the figure. . Inspired by the first clown portraits oft the 19s century, I want to refer to the social status they once enjoyed and pay tribute to their artform again. Analogously photographed and uncut, the portraits depict the clownesses between character and private person, allow the boundaries between role and everyday life to be mixed up and tell their own truth about the world. The photographs were all taken in Germany and are presented in an abandoned villa in an unknown location.
VIDEO: vimeo.com/512272866


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Purdue 150th Anniversary Events at the College of Science
Purdue College of Science 150th Anniversary Calendar
We invite Purdue Science students, faculty, staff, alumni, and friends — and the community — to join us for Purdue Ideas Festival and other 150th Anniversary events, and for other special events throughout the Purdue 150th Anniversary celebration.
See how our groundbreaking footprints in science lead to giant leaps in discovery — explore 150 Years of Giant Leaps in Science.
2018–2019 EVENTS
Dean's Executive Science Forum
10:30 to 11:20 a.m.
Stanley Coulter, Room 239
The dean's forum is open to the Purdue community. Special guest: College of Science alumna Janice Zdankus, vice president of quality, Hewlett Packard Enterprise Customer Experience and Quality.
The dean's forum is open to the Purdue community. Special guest: College of Science alumnus Bob Beideman, director of retirement plans, Southern Company.
HOMECOMING WEEKEND: FRIDAY
The dean's forum is open to the Purdue community. Special guest: College of Science alumnus John Roudebush, chief executive officer, Ecolink Inc.
IDEAS FESTIVAL EVENT
Biden Cancer Community Summit: Purdue's Legacy in Cancer Research
2:30 to 5 p.m.
Hiler Theater, Wilmeth Active Learning Center
What if we cure cancer in 10 years? Biden Cancer Community Summits in Washington, D.C., and across the country will focus national attention on the urgency to build momentum through community-driven action, ideas, and cancer solutions. The Purdue Center for Cancer Research and the College of Science are co-sponsors for this Purdue 150th Ideas Festival event. Join us as we learn how some of Purdue's most prominent leading experts in cancer research are challenging one of the most nuanced health problems of our time.
Graham Cooks, the Henry B. Hass Distinguished Professor of Chemistry, Purdue University
Andrea Kasinski, assistant professor of biological sciences and 2017 American Cancer Society Research Scholar awardee, Purdue University
Steve Konieczny, professor and interim head, Department of Biological Sciences, Purdue University
Phil S. Low, the Ralph C. Corley Distinguished Professor of Chemistry, Purdue University
There is no cost to attend, but registration is required.
Purdue Science 150th Celebration Tailgate and Purdue Homecoming Parade
Tent on Memorial Mall
Kick off the Purdue Homecoming celebration with the College of Science! Come for the food, fun, and friends, and stay for the annual Homecoming parade, which starts at Memorial Mall.
HOMECOMING WEEKEND: SATURDAY
Pre-Game Activities
9 to 11 a.m.
The College of Science will host pre-game activities in three locations. Be sure to visit us on Homecoming Row on Stadium Mall, at Boilermaker Crossing next to Mackey Arena, and inside the stadium on the Ross-Ade concourse. Meet Purdue Science students, who will be sharing fun activities for all ages. Pick up your alumni pin at any of these locations!
Homecoming Football Game: Purdue vs. Boston College
Ross-Ade Stadium
The College of Science is sponsoring the Homecoming football game, which is the official kickoff event of Purdue's sesquicentennial celebration. A special half-time show by Purdue's All-American Marching Band will celebrate Purdue Science.
Tickets can be purchased online or by calling 800-497-7678. For more information about Homecoming activities around campus, visit the Purdue Homecoming website.
INDY BIG DATA: A Technology Conference
JW Marriott, Downtown Indianapolis
Big Data: A Maze of Opportunity is the theme of the 5th annual Indy Big Data conference. Three College of Science faculty members are speakers: Professor of Computer Science Christopher W. Clifton, Assistant Professor of Computer Science Aniket Kate, and Professor of Computer Science David Ebert.
Learn more about and register for the conference.
The dean's forum is open to the Purdue community. Special guest: College of Science alumna Carolyne Gatesy, entrepreneur and owner, Main Street Office Center.
Dialog with Alumni: Diversity and Educational Excellence in Science
Lilly Hall and Lawson Commons
The Department of Biological Sciences is hosting this daylong event, which features four outstanding Purdue alumni who will visit and meet with various student and faculty groups for panel discussions. Drs. Carla Little, Debra Murray, Tracie Gibson, and James Simples, all African American, received their PhDs from the Department of Biological Sciences and have gone on to outstanding careers. They bring a unique perspective concerning the challenges our students face as undergraduate and graduate students. During the panel discussions, they will provide key insights that can help all our students succeed in college and in their professional journeys.
Info about specific discussion panel groups and times to come.
ALUMNI GUEST PANELISTS
Carla Little, PhD, Illinois Health Department
Debra Murray, PhD, Director, Education and Minority Diversity Program, Baylor College of Medicine
Tracie Gibson, PhD, Director, Student Success and Diversity, University of Massachusetts, Amherst
James Simples, PhD, Principal Medical Science Liaison, Janssen Scientific Affairs (Johnson & Johnson)
Approximation Theory and Machine Learning Conference
Lawson, Room 1142
Machine learning has made a tremendous impact on the world, in applications that include automatic face- and object-recognition in computer vision, self-driving cars, and automatic language translation. This conference will highlight the importance of approximation theory as it is used in mathematics in existing and future machine-learning and data science problems.
Visit the conference event page for more information.
The dean's forum is open to the Purdue community. Special guest: College of Science alumna Barbara Alving, MD, research professor in the School of Public Health at the University of Maryland.
The dean's forum is open to the Purdue community. Special guest: College of Science alumnus John Sninsky, chief scientific officer of CareDx, Inc.
The Detection of Gravitational Waves from Colliding Black Holes
Barry Barish, Nobel Laureate in Physics
Loeb Playhouse, Stewart Center
What if we could hear gravity? Barry Barish won the 2017 Nobel Prize in Physics for being the first to detect gravitational waves produced by colliding black holes — a feat believed by scientists to be the first step toward explaining how the universe was born.
The Hubert James Lecture and Purdue 150th Anniversary Ideas Festival event is sponsored by the Department of Physics and Astronomy in the College of Science. The event is free and open to the public.
The dean's forum is open to the Purdue community. Special guest: College of Science alumnus Alan Levy, president and CEO of Northstar Neuroscience.
The dean's forum is open to the Purdue community. Special guest: College of Science alumnus Ed McGavin, senior process engineering manager, Amazon.
Parents and Family Weekend
Dawn or Doom 2018
Emerging Technology — Risks and Rewards
Celebrating its fifth year, Dawn or Doom explores the effects of rapidly emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and genetic engineering, by bringing together leading national experts and stars from Purdue's large constellation of researchers to kick-start conversations about potential risks and rewards.
Learn more about the 2018 Purdue Dawn or Doom conference, which is free and open to the public.
The dean's forum is open to the Purdue community.
2018 Purdue Cryo-EM Symposium
Shively Club, Ross-Ade Stadium
Purdue will host several speakers from around the globe to discuss recent advances in cryo-electron microscopy. The keynote speaker is Dr. Richard Henderson, 2017 Nobel Laureate in Chemistry. The College of Science, the Department of Biological Sciences, and the Department of Chemistry are among the symposium sponsors.
For the list of speakers and the event flyer, visit the 2018 Purdue Cryo-EM Symposium website. Registration is $120/person. Space is limited, so we encourage you to pre-register online before August 31.
The dean's forum is open to the Purdue community. Special guest: College of Science Career Specialist Danielle Sheese.
College of Science Commencement
Algorithmic, Mathematical and Statistical Foundations of Data Science and Applications
Please save the date — details to come.
Purdue Day of Giving
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in modern military conflict, weapons
Hello, Atlantico
The social media feed for the Marinha do Brasil, Brazil's navy, has been off the hook this week as the country turned out to legit welcome into Rio de Janeiro the current fleet flagship, the brand new (to Brazil) amphibious assault ship NAeL Atlântico (AND 140). Formerly the British amphibious assault ship HMS Ocean (L-12).
The 21,500-ton LPH was built at Vickers, commissioning in 1998. In December 2017, the Brazilian Navy confirmed the purchase of the ship for £84.6 million– a comparative bargain when compared to new construction.
She left Royal Navy service on 27 March 2018, with the Brazilians arriving the month before to do a warm transfer. She commissioned in Portsmouth under the green Brazilian banner in June and has been working up in European waters with British advisors for the past several weeks.
As noted by Naval Recognition: "The helicopter carrier package for Brazil includes an Artisan 3D search radar, KH1007 surface surveillance radar system, four 30 mm DS30M Mk 2 remote weapon systems and four Mk 5B landing craft. However, the three original 20 mm Mk 15 Block 1B Phalanx close-in weapon systems, the torpedo defense systems and 7.62 mm M134 machine guns were removed from the ship."
Atlantico was greeted offshore of Brazil by two Super Cougars, two recently modified Sikorsky SH-16 Seahawk multirole helicopter (a local designation for S-70B), and two Bell 206 Jet Rangers (who normally serve as plane guards with divers aboard and fill liaison roles), which were arrayed on her flight deck as she entered Rio (as no one likes to see a brand new carrier with an empty deck.)
She is designated a PHM in Brazilain service, standing for Porta-Helicópteros Multipropósito or multi-purpose helicopter carrier.
She arrived in Rio on 25 August and is expected to be fully operational by 2020.
Note the fleet behind her on parade
The Marinha do Brasil has been continually in the flattop business since they bought the WWII vintage 19,980-ton light carrier HMS Vengeance (R71) from the British in 1956 (a ship nominally smaller than Atlântico). Following a four-year reconstruction in Holland, that ship joined the Brazilian fleet as NAeL Minas Gerais and was the first aircraft carrier purchased by a Latin American nation.
Brazilian Navy aircraft carrier Minas Gerais in 1966
Gerais gave 40 years of hard service to the Brazilians flying A-4 Skyhawks and S-2 Trackers until she was replaced by the French Clemenceau-class aircraft carrier Foch, which was commissioned as NAeL São Paulo in 2000. However, the 32,000-ton French flattop, now some 54-years young, has been a maintenance nightmare and the Brazilians announced last year that they were moving to condemn her.
Tags: Atlântico, brazil carrier, brazil navy, brazil ocean, Brazilian Marines, Brazilian Navy, HMS Ocean, Mari, Marinha do Brasil, NAeL Atlântico, Porta-Helicópteros Multipropósito
The Admiralty must love their Brazilian allies right about now | laststandonzombieisland - July 2, 2019


BAO DAI, FORMER EMPEROR OF VIETNAM, DIES
On my list
By Richard Pearson
Bao Dai, 83, a former emperor of Annam and Vietnam who spent more than 30 years contending with the demands of powerful foreign overlords and the political divisiveness of his own people before ending his life in exile, died July 31 at a military hospital in Paris. The cause of death was not reported.
Over the years, Bao Dai attempted to walk the tightrope of being a nominal monarch in a land ruled by others. During World War II, he found himself under the control of the pro-German Vichy French government and then Japanese occupation forces. After the war, he abdicated, served briefly in a communist government, endured a first exile and served briefly as emperor before being exiled again in 1955.
Bao Dai was born under the name Nguyen Vinh Thuy, the son of Khai Dinh, emperor of Annam, a French protectorate that now is the central coastal strip of Vietnam. After his father died in 1926, he took the throne with the name Bao Dai (Keeper of Greatness). He reigned from palaces in Hue and Da Lat.
Because of his youth, the new emperor was sent to France to complete his education. After taking up his duties as emperor in 1932, he saw his attempts at reform frustrated by the French opposition. Bao Dai then began spending much of his time vacationing in France or hunting in Vietnam's Central Highlands.
During World War II, Bao Dai cooperated with France's pro-German Vichy government and with Japanese forces that occupied Southeast Asia. After the war, with Vietnamese communist forces inexorably gaining power, Bao Dai abdicated and took a common name. He served briefly in Hanoi as the "supreme adviser" to the government of the new Democratic Republic of Vietnam proclaimed by the communist and nationalist leader, Ho Chi Minh.
After Bao Dai endured an exile in Hong Kong and France, the French restored him to an imperial throne as their nominee in 1949. When the 1954 Geneva accords resulted in the division of Vietnam into North and South, Bao Dai made a serious attempt at ruling, as emperor of South Vietnam.
He lost his throne for a final time in 1955. His handpicked and militantly anti-communist premier, Ngo Dinh Diem, engineered the downfall in a national referendum.
The exiled Bao Dai stood largely aloof from politics and Vietnamese affairs for the rest of his life.
Many observers said they believed that Bao Dai had been a reluctant ruler who had little real power under any of his overlords and who did not really want power in any case.
He seemed to prefer life on the French Riviera to an emperor's residence in Southeast Asia.
In his last years as emperor and in his early years of final exile, he led a luxurious lifestyle with interests and pursuits that resulted in much of the world press referring to him as the "Playboy Emperor."
The U.S. government had recognized Bao Dai and his government in 1950. It then began to funnel monetary and other aid to the beleaguered developing nation. The aid was intended to help fund the modernization of South Vietnamese society and to enable its government to stand up to communist North Vietnam.
Much of the aid money found its way to personal overseas bank accounts of the emperor. That money helped ensure his standard of gracious living after the referendum.
During his years in French exile, Bao Dai converted from Buddhism to Roman Catholicism and lost the greater part of his fortune.
His first wife, Nguyen Huu Thi Lan, died in 1968. The next year, he married Monique Baudot. He had six children. CAPTION: BAO DAI


2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class: 2014 Detroit Auto Show Preview & Live Photos
There's a new C-Class coming, and it's beautiful. It's also lighter, more powerful, with standard all-wheel drive, and packing several new high-tech safety features. The 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class will make its official public debut at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show this Monday. Today, we add to the high-res gallery of studio photos with live images of the car from its private unveiling in Detroit ahead of the 2014 Detroit Auto Show.
There are only a few things we don't know about the new C-Class so far. At the top of that short list are price and gas mileage. Whether those figures will materialize upon the car's official unveiling in Detroit next week, or if they'll wait until closer to the car's launch later in the year remains to be seen.
What we do know about the 2015 C-Class is that it looks very, very good--almost like a smaller S-Class, and if you've forgotten how good that car is, go remind yourself.
Inside and out, the new C-Class presents a fresher, more luxurious face, with a bold but still tasteful exterior and a cabin that looks at least one big notch more luxurious than the last car. Of course, final judgment will be reserved until we've laid hands on it ourselves.
Under the hood of the new 2015 C-Class, you'll find one of two engines: a 235-horsepower, 273-pound-foot 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder in C300 trim; or a 329-horsepower, 354-pound-foot 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 in C400 trim. Both engines use direct injection in addition to turbocharging, and both are paired to a 7G-Tronic Plus seven-speed automatic transmission. Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel-drive system is standard on all U.S.-bound C-Class for the 2015 model year.
Those power figures should complement the new chassis well, as it loses 220 pounds in total--154 of those pounds from the body structure alone--due to the use of about 40 percent more aluminum in place of steel in its construction. That weight savings has been achieved in spite of a rather significant growth in the car's exterior dimensions; the 2015 C-Class is 3.7 inches longer, 1.6 inches wider, and has 3.0 inches more wheelbase than the previous model.
The 2015 C-Class is also the first to offer air suspension in its segment. The base model still comes with standard steel springs, but an upgrade to a comfort-oriented air suspension is available, as is a sporty version of the Airmatic air suspension as part of the Sport package. The Sport package's dynamic air suspension also lowers the car's ride height by 0.6 inches. Models fitted with the adaptive air suspension can choose from Comfort, ECO, Sport, and Sport+ modes via the Agility Select switch.
Beyond the performance upgrades, the new 2015 C-Class should also be the safest C-Class yet, with a host of safety features that were only recently launched on the S-Class and E-Class arriving in their smaller counterpart. Among the new features are standard-equipment including: Attention Assist; and Collision Prevention Assist Plus, which helps to brake the car if a collision is deemed imminent by the car's sensors, capable of autonomous braking from speeds up to 124 mph, and completely preventing rear-end collisions at speeds up to 25 mph. Optional safety extras include Distronic Plus, BAS Plus Brake Assist System, and Enhanced Active Lane Keeping Assist. Other safety enhancements available include Active Parking Assist; a 360-degree camera; and Traffic Sign Assist, which can read traffic signs to warn of speed limits, no-passing zones, no-entry signs, and more.
On the more entertaining side of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class's technology is the COMAND infotainment system, installed in either the standard 7-inch display or the optional 8.4-inch display offered as part of the Multimedia package. Mercedes' mbrace2 apps and connectivity technology is also baked into the COMAND system, with the option to have over twenty Mercedes Benz Apps integrated from the factory.
Look for more details, including live photos, video, and more, live from the debut of the 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show this week.
You can also see the new 2015 C-Class in action in the official videos below.
High-Res Gallery: 2015 Mercedes-Benz C-Class live photos, 2014 Detroit Auto Show preview
2015 Auto Shows Detroit Auto Show Luxury Mercedes-Benz C Class News Mercedes-Benz News Videos youtube
2014 SRT Viper Gets Mid-Grade GT Model, Stryker Green Color
2015 Audi A8 And S8 U.S. Specs Announced
Chevy Corvette Stingray And Silverado Named North American Car And Truck Of The Year
Toyota FT-1 concept: Supra successor hinted at Detroit show
Used 2020 Mercedes-Benz C Class
Used 2020 Audi A4


Risk of developing autism is mostly caused by genetics
By Shaoni Bhattacharya
Genetic factors may explain most of the risk of developing autism spectrum disorder (ASD), suggests a new analysis.
It calculated that ASD has 83 percent heritability - this is a measure of the extent to which a particular trait is inherited within a population.
The paper, published in JAMA, is a re-analysis of a previous study by the same researchers in twins and siblings that concluded that ASD was 50 percent heritable. Many studies have attempted to quantify the contributions of genetics and environment to the risk of ASD, and estimates vary widely.
'We already know that autism has very substantial genetic contributions,' Dr Daniel Geschwind, a geneticist at the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine, told HealthDay News. 'The question is how much is genetic and how much is environmental?'
The authors of the new analysis put the findings into context. 'This estimate [83 percent] is slightly lower than the approximately 90 percent estimate reported in earlier twin studies and higher than the 38 percent estimate reported in a California twin study, but was estimated with higher precision,' they wrote. 'Like earlier twin studies, shared environmental factors contributed minimally to the risk of ASD.'
Dr Sven Sandin at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, and colleagues used an alternate method to re-analyse their data from a large study of children born in Sweden between 1986 and 2006, which followed them until December 2009. This included approximately 37,600 sets of twins, 2,642,000 full sibling pairs, and about 877,800 half-sibling pairs. Of these, about 14,500 children were diagnosed with ASD.
Although the two analyses produced hugely different results for heritability, the authors of the latest analysis note: 'In both analyses, the heritability of ASD was high and the risk of ASD increased with increasing genetic relatedness.'
But Dr Sandin added: 'Even in couples who already have a child with autism, the likelihood that their next child will also develop autism is increased, but still not very high.'
The large size of the study supports the validity of the findings, said Dr Geschwind.
Autism is mostly genetic, suggests study
The Independent | 26 September 2017
Findings Suggest Genetic Factors May Explain Most of the Risk for Autism Spectrum Disorder
JAMA Network (For the Media) | 26 October 2017
Genetic factors may explain most of risk for autism spectrum disorder
Medical Xpress | 26 September 2017
Genetics a Cause of Autism in Most Cases: Study
HealthDay News | 26 October 2017
The Heritability of Autism Spectrum Disorder
JAMA | 26 September 2017
Largest US twin study looks at how your postcode affects health
21 January 2019 - by Dr Rachel Montgomery
A study attempting to clarify the ongoing 'nature vs nurture debate' has confirmed that the issue is complex - and that most conditions are probably caused by an interaction of both...
Repetitive behaviours in rare form of autism 'edited out' in mice
2 July 2018 - by Isobel Steer
Genome editing technology has been used to edit out autistic traits in mice with a rare form of the condition, according to a new study in the journal Nature Biomedical Engineering...
Autism and smoking during pregnancy - a mitochondrial inheritance
30 May 2017 - by Professor David Skuse
In recent years, there has been an explosion in the number of children diagnosed with autism. There is seemingly one in every classroom, most of them boys; some are quiet and nerdy, others may be disruptive and aggressive. Most have normal intelligence, and can be educated in mainstream schools. Parents of such children question why one child is affected...
Autism linked to cognitive genes
6 March 2017 - by Jamie Rickman
Researchers have discovered that genetic variants associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) also correlate with higher intelligence...
UK twin study shows autism 'largely genetic'
9 March 2015 - by Sophie McLachlan
A UK twin study estimates that between 56 and 95 percent of autism spectrum disorder cases are attributable to genetics...


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Rare Perennials In Our Garden (continued)
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Video: 15 Perennials Every Garden Should Have! 💪🌿💚 // Garden Answer 2023, January
Ending. The beginning - in the article Rare perennials in our garden
Podophyllum (Podophyllum) is primarily interesting for the gardener as ornamental plants of unusual appearance. These are herbaceous plants 50-70 cm high with large, beautiful palm leaves. Under favorable conditions, the podophyll forms unusually picturesque dense thickets.
The genus podophyllum (Podophyillum) belongs to the barberry family and includes about 10 species, only one of which, the thyroid podophyllum (Podophyillum peltatum), grows in North America, the rest - in the mountains of Central Asia. The presence of plants from the same botanical genus on different continents is a sure evidence of their ancient origin. Indeed, podophylls are the oldest representatives of the barberry family, relics of the Tertiary period.
Podophyllum thyroid
There are two types of podophyll growing in our garden: thyroid podophyll and Podophyllum emodii, an Asian species from Central China. Despite the geographical remoteness of their ranges, these plants are very similar, and differ mainly in the number of lobes on the leaves. The thyroid usually has 5-7, while the Emod has three.
Thyroid podophyllum, fetus
The flowers of both podophylls are very large, up to 6 cm in diameter, pinkish-white. But they are so skillfully hidden under the leaves that one may not even guess about their presence. Therefore, the main decorative advantage of both podophylls is undoubtedly the leaves. With a rather insignificant, half-meter height of the plant itself, they look unusually large. In the thyroid podophila, for example, the diameter of the leaf blade sometimes reaches 40 cm; in Emod, it is somewhat more modest - up to 25 cm. There are relatively few leaves in podophiles, but they stick tightly to each other, forming even shields. The thyroid podophyll is especially good in this sense. Its thickets are so dense that they suppress any other vegetation with their shadow. The use of this podophyll in landscaping not only gives the garden a landscape, but to a certain extent eliminates weeding.
The podophyll also has another, and for some, perhaps more attractive "side of the coin". Thyroid podophyllum is a medicinal plant. It is included in the official pharmacopoeias of several countries. The plant's medicinal raw materials are roots. Podophyllum preparations have antitumor activity and are capable of inhibiting the growth of neoplasms. In folk medicine, podophyllum is also used as an anthelmintic and laxative. However, it should be remembered that all parts of the plant, excluding ripe fruits, are poisonous.
Podophylls are not at all difficult in agricultural technology. They can grow in full sun, but prefer intermittent, temporary partial shade. They love the soil rich in humus, but at the same time loose and moist. Plants are propagated by dividing rhizomes. The best time for this is early September. The thick cord-like roots of the podophyll are removed with a garden pitchfork and cut into pieces so that there is at least one renewal bud on each plot. Seed propagation is possible, but requires a lot of patience. Seeds must be sown before winter on sufficiently moist fertile soil. They emerge only after two winters and are very uneven. Seedlings grow slowly and need constant attention.
Fragrant rue (Ruta graveolens). To begin with, in ancient times, rue was considered a miraculous medicinal plant, with which it was possible to heal almost all known diseases. The plant was not only respected by doctors, but was also considered one of the most effective means against witchcraft. Ancient literature "captured" several cases of the use of rue. But even more popular rue becomes in the Middle Ages, when numerous scholarly "treatises" appeared, praising the properties of this plant.
The fame of the rue was so great that with the development of botanical science, the rue family was named after her, to which, in addition to her, are much more noticeable and important plants for humans: orange, lemon, mandarin, cork …
In essence, the exaltation of the rue was based on "objective" reasons. In ancient times, all extraordinary plants were endowed with miraculous properties. And the rue stood out against the general background with at least two qualities. Firstly, the leaves of the rue differ from the leaves of the bulk of plants in their unusual bluish-gray color. Secondly, they have a strong characteristic odor. It is enough to hold a sprig of rue in your hands so that its aroma sticks firmly to your palm.
Ruta is a small, woody in the lower part, half-shrub 50-80 cm high. Leaves are pinnately dissected twice or three times, with obovate lobes. Flowers are medium-sized, greenish-yellow, collected in loose umbellate inflorescences. The natural habitat of rue is in the east of the Mediterranean. But already in the early Middle Ages, the plant spread widely throughout Western Europe and the Middle East.
Ruta is undeservedly considered not a winter-hardy plant. In central Russia, it does chronically freeze, but it rarely freezes completely. In some winters (but not more often than once a decade), the plants freeze so thoroughly that at first they seem lifeless. But thanks to the surviving roots, the bushes quickly recover. Experience shows that elevated places and southern slopes are most favorable for rue. The soil should be simultaneously light, fertile, loose and well-drained, with a pH of 7.0-7.5.
It should be noted that rue bushes can be quite durable. On our urban site, several specimens of rue have been growing in one place for over 20 years. The plants served us as uterine testes. We used to collect rue seeds in October and sow straight away. But it happened that they forgot to do this, and then the plant sowed on its own.
Marsh cinquefoil
Marsh cinquefoil (Comarum palustre). When one of my not too self-possessed counterparts heard that I was growing saber in an ordinary garden, the first thing I did was scream indignantly: "Let it lie to you! Sabelnik is a marsh plant. And it will not grow in the garden!"
By this she exposed herself, as a spy would betray himself if he accidentally stumbled and swore in her native language. After all, the cinquefoil has really grown in our garden for a long time, and practically without outside interference. And the specific epithet "marsh" does not mean at all that the plant can grow exclusively in water. Our other guests could act as guarantors: iris, marigold, wild rosemary - all "swamp", but they grow and prosper in the garden. And despite the fact that our garden is located on a slope, its soil has a sandy loam base and, as a result, it looks more like a dry steppe than a swamp.
In what she was right, it is that in nature the cinquefoil most often grows along the shores of oxbows and lakes, and in general all kinds of swampy places. That is, it has a coastal, semi-aquatic ecological niche. The cinquefoil takes the most active part in the process of overgrowing of water bodies, both shallow and deep. He is among the first, along with sedges and the three-leafed watch, settles on rafters - "floating" shores of overgrown lakes. But sometimes the cinquefoil settles in swampy meadows and in drying out reeds. And these are already different types of habitat, because no one has canceled the drought yet. Survival science teaches plants to overcome "temporary" difficulties. So the sabelnik is taught this.
In the garden, the cinquefoil agrees to grow on the usual fertilized soil for years. It does not flourish, of course, but wow - it grows and even blooms. If the soil is "fertilized" with large doses of peat - peat and watered more often, then it is quite possible to collect medicinal raw materials from the garden cinquefoil.
Sanguinaria canadensis (Sanguinaria canadensis) is a monotypic perennial herb, endemic to the Atlantic region of North America. Americans call sanguinaria the bloody root, because when injured, it secretes abundantly orange-red juice.
Sanguinaria canadian
At first glance, you would never recognize a poppy relative in the sanguinarium. This is a stemless plant - flowers and leaves grow in sanguinaria directly from the rhizome, but separately from each other. The leaves are very large, up to 15 cm in diameter, on erect petioles up to 20 cm high. Flowers grow singly on thin, straight peduncles. Sanguinaria is unusually decorative, and oddly enough, it is completely simple in agricultural technology and unpretentious. Its current rarity is nothing more than a misunderstanding.
The main breeding method for sanguinaria is the division of the rhizome. It is desirable to conduct it during a period of relative rest - in late August and early September. The seed method is usually ignored by gardeners as more tedious. The plant grows slowly but reliably. In the absence of competitors, ten years after planting, the sanguine delle grows into a dense "lawn" with a diameter of 60-80 cm.
Read more - in the article Sanguinaria - Queen of the Poppy
Sleep grass, or common lumbago (Pulsatilla vulgaris) - the genus of lumbago of the buttercup family includes about 30 species. All of them are unusually decorative, for which they have long been loved by people. And it goes sideways for them - many of the shots were in the Red Book. Common lumbago is found in Western Europe, but it is grown in gardens far beyond its natural distribution.
Common lumbago
Shots are not difficult in agricultural engineering, although they require a certain accuracy. Properly planted, lumbago can grow for decades without any maintenance. On the contrary, he does not like to be disturbed. Transplanting a young seedling is still all right, but adult plants cannot be transplanted at all. This bookish statement is worth hacking down on the nose: the plant must be immediately planted in a permanent place, and then not disturbed.
If so, it is very important to choose the right location. First, it must be completely open. As the soil sways, for all its unpretentiousness, lumbago grows better on light, deeply fertile substrates of a neutral or slightly alkaline reaction, pH 7.0-7.5. Last but not least, the soil must have good natural drainage.
Spring chilomekon, forest poppy (Hylomecon vernalis). Chilomekon is a monotypic genus of the poppy family. The natural area of the plant is the Far East and Japan. It is a short, up to 25-30 cm, stemless perennial herb that develops a dense network of roots - sod. The leaves of Chilomekon are complex, consist of 5-7 irregularly serrate along the edge, oval leaflets pointed on both sides. Flowers develop on separate, growing flush with leaves, flower arrows. Corolla is simple, about 4 cm in diameter, of four golden-yellow petals.
Spring chilomekon
The rarity of chilomekon is not related to the difficulty of its cultivation. Rather, it is not popular with gardeners. It happens. After all, there are many beautiful plants, and all of them simply do not fit in the gardener's head. But if you want to create a natural garden - the garden is not only beautiful, but also environmentally friendly, then you cannot do without such as chilomekon.
The biology of chilomekon is specific and closely related to the life of the deciduous forest, under the canopy of which it lives in nature. The rhythm of its seasonal development is subordinated to the growth of leaves on trees. Chilomekon is a half-ephemeral. He wakes up early, rapidly develops a leaf apparatus, blooms and bears fruit among the very first plants. Then the active phase of its annual cycle ends, and it goes into a state of relative rest.
Growth processes start in the plant even before the snow melts completely - under the snow. This happens especially early in years when the soil does not freeze in winter, or does not freeze slightly. The first sprouts of chilomekon make their way to the soil surface through the remnants of granular snow, often in March, when it melts intensely during the day and freezes at night. Remarkably, chilomekon seedlings are colored in an unusual orange tint - this is due to the presence of milky sap of the corresponding color in the tissues of the plant.
Taking advantage of the first, still unstable heat, chilomekon rapidly expels leaves, and immediately proceeds to flowering. It blooms very early, at the same time as the first flowers: crocus, liverwort, spleen, galanthus. Flowering lasts 2-3 weeks and ends with full expansion of leaves on the trees. At this, the active phase of the development of chilomekon ends, it stops developing new leaves, and the old ones begin to thin out and wither gradually. By the beginning of July, the visible life of the plant finally dies down until the next spring.
Chilomekon agrotechnics is simple. It is shade-tolerant, picky about moisture and soil fertility. When choosing soil conditions, it should be remembered that the worst version of the soil is dry sandy, and the most favorable for the plant are medium loamy, constantly moderately moist soils rich in leaf humus. As for the relief, the chilomekon grows better on level places, and will agree to the slope only if it is northern and sufficiently humid.
When looking for a place in the garden for chilomekon, one should remember its biology. It grows best when surrounded by deciduous trees and shrubs under their thin, transparent shade.
Read more - in the article Chilomekon - forest poppy
Tiled skewer
Skewer (gladiolus) tiled (Gladiolus imbricatus) is the most real gladiolus. Only wild. In the Russian flora, by the way, there are several species. The tiled one is considered one of the most beautiful. It is a perennial corm plant with a height of 40-70 cm (sometimes up to 100 cm). The leaves characteristic of all gladioli are xiphoid, that is, long and flat. The flowers are rather large, funnel-shaped, lilac-red, purple or pinkish in a one-sided short and dense inflorescence. Blooms in May-June for up to a month.
Skater is sun-loving, but grows well in lateral or light mesh penumbra, prefers constantly moist fertile soils. It can grow in one place for many years. In favorable conditions, it gives self-seeding.
White ash (Dictamnus albus) and Caucasian ash (Dictamnus caucasicus). An ash tree, even if perceived only as an ornamental plant, is just a godsend for a gardener. It is beautiful, durable and rather unpretentious. In our country garden, a group of several ash trees have been growing in one place since the late 1990s. All of them, in turn, were grown from seeds of their own generation, collected from a mother plant growing in the front garden of a city house. And no one remembers where he came from. In general, the biography of our Yasenets (there are now more than twenty of them) is hidden by a historical fog. And no Investigative Committee will be able to get the truth anymore - even if you interrogate with a polygraph.
Dittany
Caucasian ash
I confess that I am not indifferent to the ash tree. And precisely for the reasons mentioned six lines earlier. And how can you not love a flower that, in addition to its attractive appearance, grows in one place for 20 years and does not spread rot at the same time with hard work and worries. If everyone were like that, it would be possible to walk around the garden as a guest, rather than crawl on all fours like now. In general, the ash tree for me is "persona grata" and its "area" in our garden will only expand. Moreover, there are still many places in the garden where it would be more than appropriate.
The genus Dictamnus, or Ash (Dictamnus) belongs to the Rutaceae family and, according to botanists, has 6 species. Ash trees are perennial herbaceous plants, the range of which crosses Eurasia in an intermittent strip from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean at approximately the latitude of the Caspian Sea.
Yasenets received the Russian name because of the similarity of the leaves of the plant with the leaves of the ash. They are imparipinnate, with a total length of 15-25 cm, and consist of 7-13 ovoid glossy leaves. On the lower surface of the leaves, you can see numerous small dots - these are glands through which the plant secretes volatile essential oils.
The flowers of ash trees do not spoil either in size (about 4 cm in diameter) or in color variety. They are either white or pinkish lilac; in the latter case, the flower petals are additionally decorated with a network of dark lilac veins. The corolla has five petals, but they are located slightly asymmetrically "with a twist", or as they sometimes say - arachnid.
The fruits of ash trees look like bristled boxes with short, rigid thorns, each of which contains two shiny black seeds. When ripe, the shutters of the capsules crack, throwing the seeds aside. So for reproduction, the fruit should be harvested as soon as it is full and just starting to dry out. This usually happens at the end of July.
In the gardens, more often than others, you can find two similar species - the Caucasian ash tree (D. Caucasicus) - with the Caspian-Siberian range and the white ash tree (D. Albus) - growing in southern Europe. They both grow well in culture.
Why is ash-tree so rare, the question arises? Personally, I have no other explanation than the difficulty of its reproduction. The difficulty, by the way, is relative. The easiest way to propagate an ash tree is by seed. But, since one plant produces relatively few seeds, and their real germination is far from 100%, the seed method does not allow the plant to multiply quickly and in large quantities. The ash tree can also be grafted. But this method is even less productive. Cuttings should be cut at the beginning of growth, if you just miss the time - they will not take root. In addition, cutting cuttings significantly weakens the strength of the plant - they hardly bloom, or do not bloom at all.
What does a plant need for well-being? Sufficiently light, permeable soil and full sun. What he does not tolerate is a combination of dryness and sterility of the soil. Ash also does not like strong shade and underground competition with other plants. Based on the foregoing, it is advisable to plant the ash tree in the sun itself, separately from other plants, in a group, and if possible, in an array. The soil substrate can be prepared on the basis of leafy earth, humus and sand: 1: 1: 2. The optimum pH is 7-7.5, so acidic soils should be limed.
The ash tree has another attractive feature. He is a prototype of the "burning bush" - a burning and unburning thorn bush, from among which God communicated with his chosen one Moses. Some people believe that the ash tree is the very bush. But this is unlikely, although there is one, but a very strong precondition for such a statement.
Ash trees emit volatile ether compounds, which, under certain conditions (in hot weather), can ignite spontaneously. The burning temperature of ash-tree ethers is not high, and the "burning" itself lasts a few seconds, so this does not harm the plant itself. The middle zone of Russia, however, is not the place where you can count on such a miracle. Be that as it may, Christians all over Europe revere the ash tree as a symbol of the biblical "burning bush", and as such they plant it in monastic gardens and temples.
Catalog in your envelope, by e-mail or on the website.
600028, Vladimir, 24 passage, 12
Smirnov Alexander Dmitrievich
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Love, Like A Red Rose, Blooms In My Garden
In our time, probably, there is no person who would not know that February 14 is Valentine's Day or Valentine's Day. This holiday has long crossed all state borders and rejected the prohibitions of all religions. Maybe because Love itself stands behind it - the eternal guardian of life?
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Wooden podiums and decks will make your garden life beautiful, varied and comfortable. It is not difficult to make them, the main thing is to immediately foresee all the nuances of construction so that the structures will serve you for many years


After weeks of searching, the NYPD has located the teenager connected to the murder of Tess Majors. This update on the case comes after the NYPD made the unusual action in releasing the pictures of the suspect even though he is a minor. Another allegedly involved individual, a thirteen-year-old, was arrested two weeks ago.
NYPD Chief of Detectives Rodney Harrison confirmed that the teenager has been located via Twitter this morning. It is not specified whether the individual is in custody or where he was located. Bwog reached out this morning and the NYPD refused to comment further as "this remains an active an[d] ongoing investigation."
Update 3:25 PM: According to a recent tweet from NYPD Chief of Detectives Rodney Harrison, the teenager was released from police custody and is in his attorneys' custody. The investigation is still active.
Barnard Gates via Bwog Archives
3 weeks ago at 9:20 pm
@Anonymous JUSTICE! FOR TESSA.
please advocate for the perpetrators to be tried as adults.
Viscous and Heinous crimes have to
The same consequences in the punishments for these acts.
I'm praying for Justice for Tessa.
The sad part is she herself might have forgiven them if she survived this senseless and brutal attack.
3 weeks ago at 9:18 am
@Anonymous Remember when all the social justice warriors told us "there was no evidence" the kid was black? That's the state of the alt left.
3 weeks ago at 10:34 am
@Anonymous According to the New York Times:
"The authorities believed that the teenager's family was shielding him until a mark on his hand healed, an official briefed on the case said. The official described the mark as consistent with a bite."
Remind me again why the family members aren't being charged with obstruction of justice?


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World's biggest pillow fight. The record currently belongs to a group of 6,261 participants who bashed each other with pillows during a baseball game in St. Paul, Minnesota.
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CEMEX Ventures invests in Energy Vault
Published by Lucy Stewardson, Editorial Assistant
World Cement, Monday, 20 May 2019 09:41
CEMEX Ventures has announced its investment in Energy Vault, an Idealab company that has developed a transformative technology to store energy. The new investment is further reinforced by plans to support rapid market adoption and the deployment of Energy Vault's technology through CEMEX's strategic network.
Energy Vault's transformative energy storage technology solves a key challenge for renewables, which have struggled to replace, in a significant way, fossil fuel power due to production unpredictability and the intermittency of wind and sunlight. Consequently, energy storage solutions that can harness energy from renewable sources become vital if cleaner and more sustainable sources of energy are sought.
In the absence of longer duration and more cost-effective energy storage, the amount of electricity that can be delivered to the grid from renewable energy sources, even though now widely affordable, has been limited.
For the first time, Energy Vault's system enables renewables to deliver baseload power below the cost of fossil fuels, 24 hours/day.
The investment follows a previously announced technology partnership with CEMEX, to provide concrete and other composite material technology for Energy Vault's storage towers.
The technology was inspired by pumped hydro plants that rely on the power of gravity and the movement of water to store and discharge electricity. This solution is based on the same well-understood principles of physics and mechanical engineering used in those plants. Energy Vault's system replaces water with custom-made concrete bricks through an innovative use of low-cost materials. The bricks are combined with the company's patented system design and proprietary algorithm-based software to operate a newly designed crane. The crane orchestrates the energy storage tower and electricity charge/discharge, while accounting for a variety of factors, including energy supply and demand volatility, weather elements, and other variables, such as inertia and system deflection.
As a result, the company is able to deliver the benefits of a gravity-based pumped hydro system with a lower price, and higher round-trip efficiency, without the requirement for specific land topographies and negative environmental or wildlife impacts. With longer duration and more cost-effective energy storage, it is possible to deliver electricity from renewables for less than the price of fossil fuels, 24 hours/day, for the first time.
In April 2019, Energy Vault won the World Changing Idea Award from Fast Company in the Energy category. The award was given for the economic and environmental benefits that the technology provides.
"Energy storage that enables power to be delivered for less than the cost of fossil fuels is critical as the world shifts away from its reliance on carbon-based fuels to renewable energy," said Gonzalo Galindo, CEO of CEMEX Ventures. "Energy Vault's storage technology is transformational and we are extremely pleased to broaden our relationship and support the company's efforts. The investment is also important because it complements the CEMEX R&D partnership and will accelerate our corporate objectives to achieve a carbon-free industrial footprint."
"CEMEX is a key strategic partner that adds critical innovations in material science that enhance both the economics and longevity of our economic storage system, and we are thrilled to expand our partnership and welcome CEMEX Ventures as an investor," said Robert Piconi, CEO and Co-founder of Energy Vault. "The combination of CEMEX's smart concrete solutions, significant global infrastructure and now its strategic investment will accelerate our ability to enable renewable energy to replace fossil fuels 24 hours/day."
Read the article online at: https://www.worldcement.com/the-americas/20052019/cemex-ventures-invests-in-energy-vault/
Cemex news US cement news Cement news 2018


This photo shows a search for political ads that were on Facebook displayed on a computer screen Thursday, Oct. 31, 2019, in New York. Twitter's ban on political advertising is ratcheting up the pressure on Facebook and Mark Zuckerberg to follow suit. Richard Drew/AP Photo
As Disinformation Online Grows, Wisconsin Group Hopes To Educate Voters Ahead Of 2020 Election
New 2020 Citizens Guide Offers Voters Practical Tips On Asking Candidates About Ethics, Spotting False Information Online
By Hope Kirwan
Tuesday, January 1, 2019, 5:55am
A nonpartisan group based in La Crosse is hoping to help voters elect ethical political leaders in the next election through a new 2020 Citizens Guide.
LeaderEthics-Wisconsin is a nonprofit organization promoting ethical leadership practices among elected officials.
Lee Rasch, executive director and founder of the nonprofit, said the group wanted to empower more than just its members to ask candidates about their morals ahead of the 2020 election.
"We realized that we can do even more if we can get the information into the average citizen's hands," Rasch said.
The 2020 Citizens Guide details how voters can ask candidates about ethics and practical ways to promote awareness of ethical leadership. The group defines ethical leaders as truthful, transparent with public information, unifiers rather than dividers, and willing to represent their entire constituency.
"Those four principles, they're pretty rock solid if you were a senior leader in health care or education or business or the service industry," Rasch said. "It's the irony that that's true in all of those other occupations except the political arena. And so we have to get people to think 'why would we accept that and why can't we raise that bar?'"
The 2020 Citizens Guide also includes tips about how voters can be smart consumers of information, especially on social media. The guide suggests people avoid liking or sharing stories that seem falsified or exaggerated and provides resources on how to spot disinformation.
Kate Olson is library media director for the Bangor School District and a speaker on news literacy. She said the growing amount of misleading information online means adults need better education about the integrity and motivation behind information shared on blogs or social media.
"When I was growing up (in the 1980s), my mom could point to say National Enquirer or some other tabloid on the newsstand in the grocery store ... and say, 'OK, that's one kind of publication and it's fine entertainment or whatever. But probably you're not going to use it to make big decisions or trust everything that it says all of the time,'" Olson said. "As things have progressed with technology, no one is really talking to people my age about what's going on behind the scenes on the internet."
Olson said people may not understand the difference between online stories from traditional news outlets and websites that use headlines meant to outrage readers into clicking on the article, called clickbait.
But she said these misleading stories are impacting voters' ability to elect candidates that represent their priorities.
"If you don't have accurate information, you can't make informed decisions. And if you're making decisions based on inaccurate information you're actually hurting people based on what you're trying to achieve with your political agenda or your civic agenda," Olson said.
Rasch said he recognizes the problem of disinformation on the internet is widespread. But he said LeaderEthics-Wisconsin is only focusing on the local political environment, reaching out to area lawmakers and political parties.
"We have to start there, by the local community, and how that can impact the people who are either state legislators or possibly federal, but that's going to take time," Rasch said. "Superficial change can happen quickly, but substantive change just simply takes time."
The 2020 Citizens Guide is available on the LeaderEthics website.
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New York Marathon Fundraiser Says Thank You
When Michael Pritchard put his name in the hat to win a place in the New York Marathon 2018 he had never run a marathon. Imagine his surprise when his name was one of the four which was chosen! The global draw was organised by his employers New Balance, one of the world's major sports footwear manufacturers, who have a factory in Flimby and sponsor the New York Marathon.
Michael completed the gruelling 26.2 miles in just over five hours to raise money for Hospice At Home West Cumbria. Not content with just completing the race, he also set himself the ambitious target of raising £100 for each of the miles he ran. We were thrilled when Michael came in just before Christmas to let us know that combining his Just Giving page and off line sponsorship forms, which allow us to collect gift aid, means he has hit his target!
Michael says, "I found myself fortunate to be in this position that working for New Balance they gave me the opportunity to do it. I don't think I would have had the opportunity otherwise or would have even pushed myself to do it. And to be able to give something back to a charity such as Hospice At Home is just amazing. I'd like to say a huge thank you to all the people who have supported me with the training and the sponsorship. It was great that the local papers Times and Star and News and Star featured the story, it certainly help raise awareness of my fundraiser and I know made a difference to the sponsorship"
Before his mother died she needed nurses to care for her in the latter part of her life and he chose us because of the support we offer local families making life a little easier at a very difficult time.
New Balance Employee Michael Pritchard Pic Jim Davis.
Michael, who is an operations manager for New Balance explained how he had won the place. "We had to say what would inspire us to train for the New York marathon and my daughter Ella Pearl was my inspiration. New Balance pride themselves in being independent and not copying what their competitors are doing. I explained how Ella at two-and-a-half years old is so fiercely independent, she is strong willed and tackles everything head-on – she's not afraid to fall down. My daughter is one of the most important people in my life and she's my inspiration." Having met Michael and followed his adventure we can certainly see where Ella gets her inspiration and determination from!
Thank you Michael and all your supporters for this wonderful donation.


Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan city that sits 2000 feet above the Urubamba River Valley; and was built in 1450 in what is now Peru. Aside from any religious concerns, Machu Picchu is a masterpiece of architecture and engineering; with the network of buildings and extensive terraces are literally carved into the side of the mountain. Despite 550 years of wear and tear the ruins seems virtually untouched. This is quite a feat considering that the city was built without the use of animals, and that the bricks are not held together with any mortar. Machu Picchu was abandoned due to the Spanish invasion just over a hundred years after its construction.
In 1911, an American scholar by the name of Hiram Bingham "discovered" Machu Picchu and shared his findings with the academic community. It is important to note that Bingham came across the "lost city" because a local boy took him to it. Furthermore there were already native Quechua people living in the structures at Machu Picchu. Various excavations and investigations were made and Bingham essentially looted the place and took thousands of objects back to the U.S. to be displayed in the Yale Peabody Museum. After the world at large was made aware of the city's existence, it became an increasingly popular destination for academics and travelers. In 1981 the Peruvian government recognized Machu Picchu and a large area around it as a historical sanctuary. In 1983 it was recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Today there is a luxury hotel hundreds of yards away from the site itself. There are many more hotels in the nearby town of Aguas Calientes. Environmental degradation due to excessive tourism is a serious problem at Machu Picchu. "…the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu were getting run-down to a point many feared would soon be beyond repair. The trampling of the shallow dirt, the trail-side deforestation for firewood, human waste and other garbage left on the side of the Inca Trail were major environmental threats facing the famous 'lost city.'" In response to these concerns the Peruvian government made stricter rules concerning tourism, reducing the number of people allowed on the trail each day to 500, and enforcing a pack-in pack-out policy. The polluting effect of tourism is still a very real problem, particularly from the perspective of the indigenous people.
Machu Picchu became such a controversial and important site because of its visibility and symbolism. Because of its fame, any serious developments concerning Machu Picchu will be newsworthy and visible; making it a very good way to deliver a message to the world. It is also a symbol of Western cultural appropriation and imperialism. Since knowledge of this sacred site became widespread in 1911, Europeans have been trying to control the site, and the study of the site. Bingham's claim that he had discovered Machu Picchu when there were people living there is reflective of his racism and condescension towards the native people. He's implying that the people living there don't count because they're not "civilized" or white. The removal of thousands of artifacts is another indication that Bingham completely failed to understand the importance of the site. Rather than looking at the ruins as a whole, considering the structures, location, culture, and people, Bingham took what he could and went to tell other white people because that's what was important to him. The construction of a hotel and other tourist infrastructure is a further insulting offense. It's comparable to putting a McDonald's in St. Peter's Square. It also encourages superficial cultural tourism. Instead of taking the time to understand, and interact with a culture, people come and stay at luxury resorts where they can avoid anything that's not on the brochure. The message communicated is essentially that "Machu Picchu is great, only if there weren't so many Peruvians."
Apart from the disrespect that Europeans in particular have shown to the site, Machu Picchu has become such an issue because it is incredibly religiously and culturally important. Nature and its power are crucial foundations to indigenous spirituality. The location is breathtakingly in its natural beauty and majesty, and rather than trying to compete with or overwhelm what is already there, the city harmonizes with the landscape perfectly. A beautiful synthesis of technology and nature. Machu Picchu is also important to indigenous cultural heritage. The ancient city might be called the crowning achievement of Incan culture and spirituality. The culture and language of the contemporary indigenous people comes directly from Incas. In a very real sense, Machu Picchu is where these people come from. A local woman expressed her feeling about the state of the ruins. "Since ancient times, this land has been preserved as sacred. The guardian spirits do not want roadways or industry, or people who pollute the land. These are sacred areas. It was there the deities built the ancient city of Machu Picchu." From a native perspective, this is clearly not a small problem or a minor annoyance. People feel that their spirituality and way of life are being trampled on, and they think this because it's true.
There are indigenous groups dedicated to preserving not only Machu Picchu, but Peruvian indigenous religious heritage more broadly. One such notable group is Yachay Wasi. Their campaign, called the Inka Challenge, asks this question, "Will world governments, scientists, nonprofit sponsors and tourists respect Indigenous Peoples' spiritual heritage: religion, burial sites and human remains, and will the international community respect and allow them to protect their sacred sites?" In short, the answer is no. Indigenous activists aren't asking foreigners to stop coming to Machu Picchu, all they're asking is that visitors respect the sacrality of the site, and recognize that it's not disneyworld. In a country where 45% of the population is Indian, and 37% are part Indian, one might think that the government would take action to satisfy the wishes of so much of their populace. It seems that Western money is more crucial to the government than native support. In 1999, the government approved a plan for the construction of a massive luxury hotel, more restaurants and stores, and a cable car to the ruins. Due to widespread national and international protest and objection, the government suspended the plan, but has not cancelled it. Some fear it may eventually be revived.
The previously mentioned artifacts that were removed to a Yale museum are another topic of controversy. In Bingham's diary he specifically states that the artifacts he took were loaned temporarily for a period of eighteen months. A 1912 contract between Peru and Yale also states that Peru has the right to demand return of the objects in question at any time. Indeed, the Peruvian government tried to invoke this right after the end of the First World War, and Yale denied the request. Their official stance is that the artifacts belong solely to them. The museum has also releases statements offering to work out some sort of deal with Peru, but the Peruvian government is so far reluctant to compromise because of, "Yale's insistence that the University has valid title to the objects and the attitude that any sort of deal with Peru would be a magnanimous step on its part." Yale's actions in this matter are in the worst tradition of Western scholasticism, and reinforce the idea that Westerns academics are arrogant and untrustworthy, undermining legitimate attempts at cross cultural communication. We should be ashamed.
Ideally the foolish, poorly conceived tourist machinery that has been put in place would be removed, but we all know that is unlikely. In all probability money and materialism will prevail and the site will be degraded until it's gone. How crude we are.
– Tim Wheeler
[faculy edit: In a highly publicized decision, Yale University has entered into a partnership with a Peruvian university to return Machu Picchu artifacts.] Yale and Peru Sign Accord
One Response to Machu Picchu
bondeng attractions says:
We took a bus, a train, and then a bus again to reach the top of Machu Picchu Mountain where the ruins are. My headache left me, which is fortunate since the first thing I did upon arrival is sprint across the ruins to get my name on the list for the Huaynu Pichu hike. Only 300 visitors are allowed at a time and I wanted to catch up with my classmates who had taken earlier buses than I. The climb forces me to do a solid hour of stair-stepping but rewards me with a majestic view of the Machu Picchu ruins.


2017 INFINITI Q60 : LEADER IN THE PREMIUM SPORT COUPE SEGMENT
January 26th, 2016 by dealerinspire
The all-new 2017 INFINITI Q60 world leader in the premium sports coupe segment combines expressive design with exhilarating performance and dynamics.
The INFINITI Q60's bold exterior expresses a powerful elegance through its daring proportions and taut, muscular lines. Dynamic enhancements, including an all-new lightweight and sophisticated 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine, together with new adaptive steering and digital suspension systems, result in a premium sports coupe designed and engineered to perform.
The high performance 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine from the new and exclusive "VR" powertrain family is born out of the brand's extensive in-house experience of six-cylinder powertrain development. The new engine has been engineered to empower the driver and offer increased power and torque with high levels of efficiency. This new "VR30" engine comes in two power ratings: 300 horsepower or 400 horsepower, with the latter offering one of the best power-to-efficiency ratios in the premium sports coupe class.
A four-cylinder 2.0-liter gasoline engine, turbocharged to produce 208 horsepower, is also available in the INFINITI Q60.
Power is channeled through the INFINITI Q60's rear wheels for optimal dynamic response and to benefit steering feel. The available rear-biased Intelligent All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system provides enhanced stability and road holding in low-grip conditions.
The INFINITI Q60 has been engineered to deliver a truly engaging sports coupe experience, with a unique balance of ride comfort and agile handling. Complementing this position is INFINITI's new Dynamic Digital Suspension, which has been designed to offer best-in-class handling responses and agility, and enhanced ride comfort – thanks, in part, to a dedicated new set of dampers.
In addition, INFINITI's second-generation Direct Adaptive Steering offers high levels of steering feel and feedback, and the Drive Mode Selector gives drivers the option to personalize and tailor the steering's precise levels of response and feel to suit their own preferences.
Powerful, elegant and daring new design
The INFINITI Q60 employs signature INFINITI design cues to communicate dynamism through powerful elegance, representing a daring visual expression of the car's performance potential.
The interior is almost directly out of the INFINITI Q50, which means there are two large screens in the center stack and a lot of different textures. There is a smaller steering wheel (sporty!), and the availability of carbon fiber trim.
It's also chock-full of tech. Models with the V6 have the second generation of INFINITI's "direct adaptive steering," its digital steering system, which the company says now provides more feel and feedback. INFINITI is also using something that it calls a "digital suspension," which is a fancy name for adjustable suspension with different ride modes.
This is all controlled through a rather thorough drive mode selector that allows you to select six modes for the steering, from standard to Sport+. There's also a mode called customize, which allows you to select a mode for the steering and then the response of the steering, it's like the a-la-carte menu of adjustable steering response.
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