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(Redirected from Hong kong)
Hong Kong, officially the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China, is an autonomous territory south to Mainland China and east to Macao in East Asia. With around 7.2 million Hong Kongers of various nationalities[note 2] in a territory of 1,104 km2, Hong Kong is the world's fourth most densely populated country or territory.
Hong Kong used to be a British colony with the perpetual cession of Hong Kong Island from the Qing Empire after the First Opium War (1839–42). The colony expanded to the Kowloon Peninsula in 1860 and acquired a 99-year lease of the New Territories from 1898. Hong Kong was later occupied by Japan during the Second World War until British control resumed in 1945. The Sino-British Joint Declaration signed between the United Kingdom and China in 1984 paved way for the transfer of sovereignty of Hong Kong in 1997, when it became a special administrative region (SAR) of the People's Republic of China with a high degree of autonomy.[15]
Under the principle of "one country, two systems",[16][17] Hong Kong maintains a separate political and economic system from China. Except in military defence and foreign affairs, Hong Kong maintains its independent executive, legislative and judiciary powers.[18] In addition, Hong Kong develops relations directly with foreign states and international organisations in a broad range of "appropriate fields".[19] Hong Kong involves in international organizations, such as the WTO[20] and the APEC [21], actively and independently.
Hong Kong is one of the world's most significant financial centres, with the highest Financial Development Index score and consistently ranks as the world's most competitive and freest economic entity.[22][23] As the world's 8th largest trading entity,[24] its legal tender, the Hong Kong dollar, is the world's 13th most traded currency.[25] As the world's most visited city,[26][27] Hong Kong's tertiary sector dominated economy is characterised by competitive simple taxation and supported by its independent judiciary system.[28] Even with one of the highest per capita incomes in the world, it suffers from severe income inequality.[29]
Nicknamed "Pearl of the Orient", Hong Kong is renowned for its deep natural harbour, which boasts the world's fifth busiest port with ready access by cargo ships, and its impressive skyline, with the most skyscrapers in the world.[30][31] It has a very high Human Development Index ranking and the world's longest life expectancy.[32][33] Over 90% of the population makes use of well-developed public transportation.[34][35] Seasonal air pollution with origins from neighbouring industrial areas of Mainland China, which adopts loose emissions standards, has resulted in a high level of atmospheric particulates in winter.[36][37][38]
Contents
1 Etymology
2 History
2.1 Prehistory
2.2 Imperial China
2.3 British Crown Colony: 1842–1941
2.4 Japanese occupation: 1941–45
2.5 Resumption of British rule and industrialisation: 1945–97
2.6 Handover and Special Administrative Region status
3 Governance
3.1 Structure of government
3.2 Electoral and political reforms
3.3 Legal system and judiciary
3.4 Foreign relations
3.5 Human rights
3.6 Regions and districts
3.7 Military
4 Geography and climate
5 Economy
5.1 Financial centre
5.2 International trading
5.3 Tourism and expatriation
5.4 Policy
5.5 Infrastructure
6 Demographics
6.1 Languages
6.2 Religion
6.3 Personal income
6.4 Education
6.5 Health
7 Culture
7.1 Sports
7.2 Architecture
7.3 Cityscape
7.4 Symbols
8 See also
9 Notes
10 References
10.1 Citations
10.2 Sources
11 Further reading
12 External links
Etymology
Hong Kong was officially recorded in the 1842 Treaty of Nanking to encompass the entirety of the island.[39]
The source of the romanised name "Hong Kong" is not known, but it is generally believed to be an early imprecise phonetic rendering of the pronunciation in spoken Cantonese 香港 (Cantonese Yale: Hēung Góng), which means "Fragrant Harbour" or "Incense Harbour".[13][14][40] Before 1842, the name referred to a small inlet—now Aberdeen Harbour (Chinese: 香港仔; Cantonese Yale: Hēunggóng jái), literally means "Little Hong Kong"—between Aberdeen Island and the southern coast of Hong Kong Island. Aberdeen was an initial point of contact between British sailors and local fishermen.[41]
Another theory is that the name would have been taken from Hong Kong's early inhabitants, the Tankas (水上人); it is equally probable that romanisation was done with a faithful execution of their speeches, i.e. hōng, not hēung in Cantonese.[42] Detailed and accurate romanisation systems for Cantonese were available and in use at the time.[43]
Fragrance may refer to the sweet taste of the harbour's fresh water estuarine influx of the Pearl River or to the incense from factories lining the coast of northern Kowloon. The incense was stored near Aberdeen Harbour for export before Hong Kong developed Victoria Harbour.[40]
The name had often been written as the single word Hongkong until the government adopted the current form in 1926.[44] Nevertheless, a number of century-old institutions still retain the single-word form, such as the Hongkong Post, Hongkong Electric and the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation.
As of 1997, its official name is the "Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China". This is the official title as mentioned in the Hong Kong Basic Law and the Hong Kong Government's website;[45] however, "Hong Kong Special Administrative Region" and "Hong Kong" are widely accepted.
Hong Kong has carried many nicknames. The most famous among those is the "Pearl of the Orient", which reflected the impressive nightscape of the city's light decorations on the skyscrapers along both sides of the Victoria Harbour. The territory is also known as "Asia's World City".
History
Main articles: History of Hong Kong and History of China
Prehistory
Main article: Prehistoric Hong Kong
Archaeological studies support human presence in the Chek Lap Kok area (now Hong Kong International Airport) from 35,000 to 39,000 years ago and on Sai Kung Peninsula from 6,000 years ago.[46][47][48]
Wong Tei Tung and Three Fathoms Cove are the earliest sites of human habitation in Hong Kong during the Paleolithic Period. It is believed that the Three Fathom Cove was a river-valley settlement and Wong Tei Tung was a lithic manufacturing site. Excavated Neolithic artefacts suggested cultural differences from the Longshan culture of northern China and settlement by the Che people, prior to the migration of the Baiyue to Hong Kong.[49][50] Eight petroglyphs, which dated to the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600 BC – 1066 BC) in China, were discovered on the surrounding islands.[51]
Imperial China
Main article: History of Hong Kong under Imperial China
In 214 BC, Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of a centralised China, conquered the Baiyue tribes in Jiaozhi (modern-day Liangguang region and Vietnam) and incorporated the area of Hong Kong into his imperial China for the first time. Hong Kong proper was assigned to the Nanhai commandery (modern-day Nanhai District), near the commandery's capital city Panyu.[52][53][54]
After a brief period of centralisation and collapse of the Qin dynasty, the area of Hong Kong was consolidated under the Kingdom of Nanyue, founded by general Zhao Tuo in 204 BC.[55] When Nanyue lost the Han-Nanyue War in 111 BC, Hong Kong came under the Jiaozhi commandery of the Han dynasty. Archaeological evidence indicates an increase of population and flourish of salt production. The Lei Cheng Uk Han Tomb on the Kowloon Peninsula is believed to have been built as a burial site during the Han dynasty.[56]
From the Han dynasty to the early Tang dynasty, Hong Kong was a part of Bao'an County. In the Tang dynasty, modern-day Guangzhou (Canton) flourished as an international trading centre. In 736, the Emperor Xuanzong of Tang established a military stronghold in Tuen Mun to strengthen defence of the coastal area.[57] The nearby Lantau Island was a salt production centre and salt smuggler riots occasionally broke out against the government. In c. 1075, The first village school, Li Ying College, was established around 1075 AD in modern-day New Territories by the Northern Song dynasty.[58] During their war against the Mongols, the imperial court of Southern Song was briefly stationed at modern-day Kowloon City (the Sung Wong Toi site) before their ultimate defeat by the Mongols at the Battle of Yamen in 1279.[59] The Mongols then established their dynastic court and governed Hong Kong for 97 years.
From the mid-Tang dynasty to the early Ming dynasty (1368–1644), Hong Kong was a part of Dongguan County. During the Ming dynasty, the area was transferred to Xin'an County. The indigenous inhabitants at that time consisted of several ethnicities such as Punti, Hakka, Tanka and Hoklo.
European discovery
The earliest European visitor on record was Jorge Álvares, a Portuguese explorer, who arrived in 1513.[60][61] Having established a trading post in a site they called "Tamão" in Hong Kong waters, Portuguese merchants commenced with regular trading in southern China. Subsequent military clashes between China and Portugal, however, led to the expulsion of all Portuguese merchants from southern China.
Since the 14th century, the Ming court had enforced the maritime prohibition laws that strictly forbade all private maritime activities in order to prevent contact with foreigners by sea.[62] When the Manchu Qing dynasty took over China, Hong Kong was directly affected by the Great Clearance decree of the Kangxi Emperor, who ordered the evacuation of coastal areas of Guangdong from 1661 to 1669. Over 16,000 inhabitants of Xin'an County including those in Hong Kong were forced to migrate inland; only 1,648 of those who had evacuated subsequently returned.[63][64]
British Crown Colony: 1842–1941
A painter at work. John Thomson. Hong Kong, 1871. The Wellcome Collection, London
Main articles: British Hong Kong and History of Hong Kong (1800s–1930s)
In 1839, threats by the imperial court of Qing to sanction opium imports caused diplomatic friction with the British Empire. Tensions escalated into the First Opium War. The Qing admitted defeat when British forces captured Hong Kong Island on 20 January 1841. The island was initially ceded under the Convention of Chuenpi as part of a ceasefire agreement between Captain Charles Elliot and Governor Qishan. A dispute between high-ranking officials of both countries, however, led to the failure of the treaty's ratification. On 29 August 1842, Hong Kong Island was formally ceded in perpetuity to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland under the Treaty of Nanking.[65] The British officially established a Crown colony and founded the City of Victoria in the following year.[66]
The population of Hong Kong Island was 7,450 when the Union Flag raised over Possession Point on 26 January 1841. It mostly consisted of Tanka fishermen and Hakka charcoal burners, whose settlements scattered along several coastal hamlets. In the 1850s, a large number of Chinese immigrants crossed the then-free border to escape from the Taiping Rebellion. Other natural disasters, such as flooding, typhoons and famine in mainland China would play a role in establishing Hong Kong as a place for safe shelter.[67][68]
Further conflicts over the opium trade between Britain and Qing quickly escalated into the Second Opium War. Following the Anglo-French victory, the Crown Colony was expanded to include Kowloon Peninsula (south of Boundary Street) and Stonecutter's Island, both of which were ceded to the British in perpetuity under the Convention of Beijing in 1860.
In 1898, Britain obtained a 99-year lease from Qing under the Convention for the Extension of Hong Kong Territory, in which Hong Kong obtained a 99-year lease of Lantau Island, the area north of Boundary Street in Kowloon up to Shenzhen River and over 200 other outlying islands.[69][70][71]
Hong Kong soon became a major entrepôt thanks to its free port status, attracting new immigrants to settle from both China and Europe. The society, however, remained racially segregated and polarised under early British colonial policies. Despite the rise of a British-educated Chinese upper-class by the late-19th century, race laws such as the Peak Reservation Ordinance prevented ethnic Chinese in Hong Kong from acquiring houses in reserved areas such as Victoria Peak. At this time, the majority of the Chinese population in Hong Kong had no political representation in the British colonial government. The British governors did rely, however, on a small number of Chinese elites, including Sir Kai Ho and Robert Hotung, who served as ambassadors and mediators between the government and local population.
File:1937 Hong Kong VP8.webmPlay media
Hong Kong filmed in 1937
In 1904, the United Kingdom established the world's first border and immigration control; all residents of Hong Kong were given citizenship as Citizens of United Kingdom and Colonies (CUKC).
Hong Kong continued to experience modest growth during the first half of the 20th century. The University of Hong Kong was established in 1911 as the territory's first higher education institute. While there had been an exodus of 60,000 residents for fear of a German attack on the British colony during the First World War, Hong Kong remained unscathed. Its population increased from 530,000 in 1916 to 725,000 in 1925 and reached 1.6 million by 1941.[72]
In 1925, Cecil Clementi became the 17th Governor of Hong Kong. Fluent in Cantonese and without a need for translator, Clementi introduced the first ethnic Chinese, Shouson Chow, into the Executive Council as an unofficial member. Under Clementi's tenure, Kai Tak Airport entered operation as RAF Kai Tak and several aviation clubs. In 1937, the Second Sino-Japanese War broke out when the Japanese Empire expanded its territories from northeastern China into the mainland proper. To safeguard Hong Kong as a freeport, Governor Geoffry Northcote declared the Crown Colony as a neutral zone.
Japanese occupation: 1941–45
Main article: Japanese occupation of Hong Kong
The Cenotaph in Hong Kong commemorates those who died in service in the First World War and the Second World War.[73]
As part of its military campaign in Southeast Asia during Second World War, the Japanese army moved south from Guangzhou of mainland China and attacked Hong Kong in on 8 December 1941.[74] Crossing the border at Shenzhen River on 8 December, the Battle of Hong Kong lasted for 18 days when British and Canadian forces held onto Hong Kong Island. Unable to defend against intensifying Japanese air and land bombardments, they eventually surrendered control of Hong Kong on 25 December 1941. The Governor of Hong Kong was captured and taken as a prisoner of war. This day is regarded by the locals as "Black Christmas".[75]
During the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong, the Japanese army committed atrocities against civilians and POWs, such as the St. Stephen's College massacre. Local residents also suffered widespread food shortages, limited rationing and hyper-inflation arising from the forced exchange of currency from Hong Kong dollars to Japanese military banknotes. The initial ratio of 2:1 was gradually devalued to 4:1 and ownership of Hong Kong dollars was declared illegal and punishable by harsh torture. Due to starvation and forced deportation for slave labour to mainland China, the population of Hong Kong had dwindled from 1.6 million in 1941 to 600,000 in 1945, when the United Kingdom resumed control of the colony on 2 September 1945.[76]
Resumption of British rule and industrialisation: 1945–97
Main articles: British Hong Kong, 1950s in Hong Kong, 1960s in Hong Kong, 1970s in Hong Kong, 1980s in Hong Kong, and 1990s in Hong Kong
Flag of British Hong Kong from 1959 to 1997
Hong Kong's population recovered quickly after the war, as a wave of skilled migrants from the Republic of China moved in to seek refuge from the Chinese Civil War. When the Communist Party eventually took full control of mainland China in 1949, even more skilled migrants fled across the open border for fear of persecution.[69] Many newcomers, especially those who had been based in the major port cities of Shanghai and Guangzhou, established corporations and small- to medium-sized businesses and shifted their base operations to British Hong Kong.[69] The establishment of a socialist state in China (People's Republic of China) on 1 October 1949 caused the British colonial government to reconsider Hong Kong's open border to mainland China. In 1951, a boundary zone was demarked as a buffer zone against potential military attacks from communist China. Border posts along the north of Hong Kong began operation in 1953 to regulate the movement of people and goods into and out of the territory.
Stamp with portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, 1953
In the 1950s, Hong Kong became the first of the Four Asian Tiger economies under rapid industrialisation driven by textile exports, manufacturing industries and re-exports of goods to China. As the population grew, with labour costs remaining low, living standards began to rise steadily.[77] The construction of the Shek Kip Mei Estate in 1953 marked the beginning of the public housing estate programme to provide shelter for the less privileged and to cope with the influx of immigrants.
Under Sir Murray MacLehose, 25th Governor of Hong Kong (1971–82), a series of reforms improved the public services, environment, housing, welfare, education and infrastructure of Hong Kong. MacLehose was British Hong Kong's longest-serving governor and, by the end of his tenure, had become one of the most popular and well-known figures in the Crown Colony. MacLehose laid the foundation for Hong Kong to establish itself as a key global city in the 1980s and early 1990s.
A sky view of Hong Kong Island
An aerial view of the northern shore of Hong Kong Island in 1986
To resolve traffic congestion and to provide a more reliable means of crossing the Victoria Harbour, a rapid transit railway system (metro), the MTR, was planned from the 1970s onwards. The Island Line (Hong Kong Island), Kwun Tong Line (Kowloon Peninsula and East Kowloon) and Tsuen Wan Line (Kowloon and urban New Territories) opened in the early 1980s.[78]
In 1983, the Hong Kong dollar left its 16:1 peg with the Pound sterling and switched to the current US-HK Dollar peg. Hong Kong's competitiveness in manufacturing gradually declined due to rising labour and property costs, as well as new development in southern China under the Open Door Policy introduced in 1978 which opened up China to foreign business. Nevertheless, towards the early 1990s, Hong Kong had established itself as a global financial centre along with London and New York City, a regional hub for logistics and freight, one of the fastest-growing economies in Asia and the world's exemplar of Laissez-faire market policy.[79]
The Hong Kong question
In 1971, the Republic of China (Taiwan)'s permanent seat on the United Nations was transferred to the People's Republic of China (PRC), Hong Kong's status as a recognised colony became terminated in 1972 under the request of PRC. Facing the uncertain future of Hong Kong and expiry of land lease of New Territories beyond 1997, Governor MacLehose raised the question in the late 1970s.
The British Nationality Act 1981 reclassified Hong Kong into a British Dependent Territory amid the reorganisation of global territories of the British Empire. All residents of Hong Kong became British Dependent Territory Citizens (BDTC). Diplomatic negotiations began with China and eventually concluded with the 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration. Both countries agreed to transfer Hong Kong's sovereignty to China on 1 July 1997, when Hong Kong would remain autonomous as a special administrative region and be able to retain its free-market economy, British common law through the Hong Kong Basic Law, independent representation in international organisations (e.g. WTO and WHO), treaty arrangements and policy-making except foreign diplomacy and military defence.
It stipulated that Hong Kong would retain its laws and be guaranteed a high degree of autonomy for at least 50 years after the transfer. The Hong Kong Basic Law, based on English law, would serve as the constitutional document after the transfer. It was ratified in 1990.[69] The expiry of the 1898 lease on the New Territories in 1997 created problems for business contracts, property leases and confidence among foreign investors.
Handover and Special Administrative Region status
Main articles: Transfer of sovereignty over Hong Kong and 2000s in Hong Kong
Transfer of sovereignty
Golden Bauhinia Square
On 1 July 1997, the transfer of sovereignty over Hong Kong from the United Kingdom to the People's Republic of China took place, officially marking the end of Hong Kong's 156 years under British colonial governance. As the largest remaining colony of the United Kingdom, the loss of Hong Kong effectively represented the end of the British Empire. This transfer of sovereignty made Hong Kong the first special administrative region of China. Tung Chee-Hwa, a pro-Beijing business tycoon, was elected Hong Kong's first Chief Executive by a selected electorate of 800 in a televised programme.
Structure of government
Hong Kong's current structure of governance inherits from the British model of colonial administration set up in the 1850s. The 1984 Sino-British Joint Declaration states that "Hong Kong should enjoy a high degree of autonomy in all areas except defence and foreign affairs" with reference to the underlying principle of one country, two systems.[note 3] This Declaration stipulates that Hong Kong maintains her capitalist economic system and guarantees the rights and freedoms of her people for at least 50 years after the 1997 handover. [note 4] Such guarantees are enshrined in the Hong Kong's Basic Law, the territory's constitutional document, which outlines the system of governance after 1997, albeit subject to interpretation by China's Standing Committee of the National People's Congress (NPCSC).[95][96]
Hong Kong's most senior leader, Chief Executive, is elected by a committee of 1,200 selected members (600 in 1997) and nominally appointed by the Government of China. The primary pillars of government are the Executive Council, Legislative Council, civil service and Judiciary.
Policy-making is initially discussed in the Executive Council, presided by the Chief Executive of Hong Kong, before passing to the Legislative Council for bill adoption. The Executive Council consists of 30 official/unofficial members appointed by the Chief Executive and one member among them acts as the convenor.[97][98]
The Legislative Council, set up in 1843, debates policies and motions before voting to adopt or rejecting bills. It has 70 members (originally 60) and 40 (originally 30) among them are directly elected by universal suffrage; the other 30 members are "functional constituencies" (indirectly) elected by a smaller electorate of corporate bodies or representatives of stipulated economic sectors as defined by the government. The Legislative Council is chaired by a president who acts as the speaker.[99][100]
In 1997, seating of the Legislative Council (also public services and election franchises) of Hong Kong modelled on the British system: Urban Council (Hong Kong and Kowloon) and District Council (New Territories and Outlying Islands). In 1999, this system has been reformed into 18 directly elected District Offices across 5 Legislative Council constituencies: Hong Kong Island (East/West), Kowloon and New Territories (East/West); the remaining outlying islands are divided across the aforementioned regions.
Hong Kong's Civil Service, created by the British colonial government, is a politically neutral body that implements government policies and provides public services. Senior civil servants are appointed based on meritocracy. The territory's police, firefighting and customs forces, as well as clerical officers across various government departments, make up the civil service.[101][102]
SPORTS604 VOLLEYBALL PLAYOFFS 2010
Sponsored by Red Bull & Terracotta Modern Chinese Restaurant
photos by Ron Sombion Gallery & PacBlue Printing
About Sports604 -Basketball-Bowling, Dodgeball-Volleyball-California Kickball
"Vancouver's Fastest Growing Recreational Sports League"
Sports604 leagues aim to cover all the fundamentals of league play: structure, competitiveness, recreation, exercise and fun!
Levels range from beginners to seasoned vets. Not to mention, we do it with a bit of style. Not only do we include team t-shirts as a part of the registration fee, we love to rock in our socks to music! Yup, we crank up the volume when the whistle blows so everyone can get hyped before they play and groove while they play
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A rare reaction from competitive colleagues at the Churchill Club this evening....
I had just presented the first trend, and grabbed the camera for the reaction on stage.
We each suggest trends, and then vote red or green, which usually leads to a lively debate.
I went for a U.S. market trend and a geek trend (and tried not to overlap with last year’s predictions):
Trend #1: Demographics are destiny, creating opportunity. Every 11 seconds, a baby boomer turns 60. This Internet-savvy cohort represents an enormous market of time and money, driving new opportunities in “mental exercise”, online education, and eventually, an “eBay for information” that exceeds the market for physical goods.
Trend #2: Evolution Trumps Design. Many interesting unsolved problems in computer science, nanotechnology, and synthetic biology require the construction of complex systems. Evolutionary algorithms are a powerful alternative to traditional design, blossoming first in neural networks, now in microbial re-engineering, and eventually in AI.
Vinod Khosla:
Trend #1: The device that used to be a phone. A mobile phone will turn into a mainstream computer. Beyond email, built in projection screen, and high speed data will make it your virtual credit card, ID (passport), access to new types of presence (IM), payment system, personal information filing system, and much much more.
Trend #2: Fossilizing fossil energy. Oil will have increasing difficulty competing with biofuels made from cheap non-food crops for transportation. Coal will become less competitive compared to reliable solar thermal and enhanced geothermal electricity as both oil and coal’s decline will be aided by higher efficiency engines, cars, lighting, appliances.
Josh Kopelman:
Trend #1: The rise of the “Implicit” Internet. Historically, the web delivered most of its value by satisfying explicit user actions – a user entered a search query on Google, a user entered a review on Yelp, a user added their friends on Facebook.
However, as people spend more time online (and perform more of their activities online), they are leaving a trail of “digital breadcrumbs” exposing data about themselves. The result is an immense amount of implicit data on a user. Netflix knows what movies I watch and like. Apple knows what music I purchase and listen to…
However, until now that data has existed in silos. There has been no easy way for me (as a user) to access and benefit from that data. The next big wave of Internet value creation will come to those companies that can deliver value based on the implicit use of these data sources - by taking advantage of these existing data repositories in novel ways.
Trend #2: Venture Capital 2.0. Venture Capital has underwritten most of the transformative software and Internet companies for the last twenty years. However, changing economics (for both startups and venture funds) combined with changing markets, will have a dramatic impact on the venture capital industry.
Joe Schoendorf:
Trend #1: Water tech will replace global warming as a global priority.
The world is running out of usable water and this will kill millions more people in our lifetime than global warming.
Trend #2: 80% of the world population will carry mobile internet devices within 5-10 years. Mobile internet devices are rapidly becoming THE leading product category.
Roger McNamee:
Trend #1: The mobile device industry’s migration from feature phones to smart phones will produce even greater disruption than what the PC industry experienced as it moved from character-mode to graphical interfaces. It will disrupt the competitive balance, with big market share shifts. Consumers will benefit from greater choice and lower prices.
Trend #2: Within five years, everything that matters to you will be available on a device that fits on your belt or in your purse. This will cause a massive shift in internet traffic from PCs to smaller devices.
Faced with competitive pressures (especially as regards shipbuilding), Harland and Wolff sought to shift and broaden their portfolio, focusing less on shipbuilding and more on design and structural engineering, as well as ship repair, offshore construction projects and competing for other projects to do with metal engineering and construction. This led to Harland and Wolff constructing a series of bridges in Britain and also in the Republic of Ireland, such as the James Joyce Bridge and the restoration of Dublin's Ha'penny Bridge, building on the success of its first foray into the civil engineering sector with the construction of the Foyle Bridge in the 1980s. .
Harland and Wolff's last shipbuilding project (to date) was the MV Anvil Point, one of six near identical Point class sealift ships built for use by the Ministry of Defence. The ship, built under sub-contract from German shipbuilders Flensburger Schiffbau-Gesellschaft, was launched in 2003.
Belfast's skyline is still dominated today by Harland and Wolff's famous twin Gantry cranes, Samson and Goliath, built in 1974 and 1969 respectively. There is also speculation about a resurgence in the prosperity of the shipyard thanks to the company's diversification into emerging technologies, particularly in renewable energy development, such as offshore wind turbine and tidal power construction, which may provide an opportunity to further improve the company's fortunes in the long term. For example, the United Kingdom planned to build 7,500 new offshore wind turbines between 2008 and 2020,[4] creating great demand for heavy assembly work. Unlike land-based wind turbines, where assembly occurs on site, offshore wind turbines have part of their assembly done in a shipyard, and then construction barges transport the tower sections, rotors, and nacelles to the site for final erection and assembly. Wilki
Between Dunoon and the Isle of Bute.
"A highly competitive racing yacht, Adela has twice graced the Pendennis Cup fleet, winning the event overall in 2010. Since then she has become a contender for the major superyacht racing titles with victories in the St Barths Bucket, RORC Caribbean 600, Antigua Superyacht Challenge and the America’s Cup Superyacht Regatta over the past five years."
At the third day of the surfing competition in Huntington Beach, CA is always, the Vans US Open attacts photographers from all over to take shots of world class surfers from around the world. This was a surfer at the north side, a non- competitor.
The good results achieved by the Lancia Aurelia B20 coupé on its competitive debut in 1951 came at a time of racing success for Lancia, which started the year with the class victory of the new Aurelia B21 in the Giro di Sicilia. The GT cars specially prepared for racing were equipped with the two-litre engine of the B21 with power increased from 75 to 90 HP, capable of a speed of 175 km/h.
The race chosen for the new car's debut was the 1951 Mille Miglia, in which Lancia competed with four virtually standard-production B20 GT 2000s. The car driven by Bracco/Maglioli finished a very encouraging 2nd overall behind Villoresi's Ferrari 4500, an excellent performance reinforced by the good finishes of the other three cars, in 5th, 7th and 17th positions. Commenting on the XVIII Mille Miglia in "Auto Italiana" magazine just after the event, the famous racing-driver, journalist and team leader Giovanni Lurani wrote: "If a fresh slogan had to be found to define every edition of the Mille Miglia, we would have to name the 1951 race the Lancia Aurelia Mille Miglia!"
In June 1951, Bracco's B20 won its class and finished twelfth overall in the Le Mans 24 Hours. Also in 1951, B20 cars won the Pescara "6 hours" and the Coppa delle Dolomiti.
The two litre B20 also repeated its racing success at the next year's Mille Miglia, with a third place overall and four cars finishing in the first ten: wonderful publicity, especially in view of how little was spent on preparing the cars, which earned the Aurelia the image of a production car so efficient and safe that it could even be used successfully in races.
1.991 cc
V6
90 PS @ 4.500 rpm
Vmax : 175 km/h
Techno Classica 2017
Essen
Deutschland - Germany
April 2017
Sale Retromobile 2016 by Artcurial Motorcars
5 Février 2016
Estimation € 25.000 - 35.000
Sold for € 45.296
Salon Retromobile 2016
Paris Expo - Porte de Versailles
Paris - France
Februari 2016
According to the manufacturer's records, the car we are offering rolled out of the factory on January 21, 1956 and was sold on February 17 of the same year in Ireland through the company Thompson & Taylor, the same one that used to import the fabulous prewar 8C 2300 and 2900. The car was red originally and its first registration (11K 27) is dated March 10, 1956. Two months later, the owner entered the car into the Tulip Rally (Tulpenrallye), which took place from May 6 to 12, 1956. The program mentions the car's participation in class 2, stock cars, in the name of "Lyal D G Collen - Mrs. E A Collen", both Irish, departing from Noordwijk, on the coast of The Netherlands. Of this rally, the car retains a plaque screwed on to the top of the instrument panel, which also includes a map reading lamp at the end of a hose. The car is also equipped with a radio.
Lyal Collen was heir to one of the richest families of Ireland, at the head of a large construction company. This car was discovered in 2013 in a mansion near Dublin while it was with the family of its second owner, still registered with its original registration plates, such as the ones that we can see in photos taken during its participation in the Tulip Rally of 1956. This coupe Sprint is today in a "barn find" state, with its old paint. Complete and still equipped with its original mechanicals (matching numbers) this little coupe has still has under its black faux covers, the seats in red and gray, which are apparently well preserved.
Particularly sought in this first version when it was still handmade in the workshops of the great Nuccio Bertone, this Sprint coupe combines the charm of the original with its rich history of having participated in one of the most competitive of rallies of its time.
Upon entering graduate school to study photography in 2006, I had a new sense of purpose to my life. I felt like this is what I should be doing, finally. I also thought of Winogrand, and my Dad’s small place in photographic history. I decided to not only resume my apnea training, but to also record my efforts and compile a photographic archive of my apnea career as an homage to my Dad. Having a photographer, videographer present is also an effective training tool—after the fact I can watch my form, make corrections to my techniques or trainers.
Wary of SWBs, I always workout with at least one trainer. It's much safer to have someone at the ready should I lose consciousness again. Also, pulse/heart rate monitoring helps to ensure that the diaphragm moves slowly and smoothly.
The panel Kirill Dmitriev, Chief Executive Officer, Russian Direct Investment Fund, Russian Federation; Young Global Leader, Rustam Minnikhanov, President of the Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation, Maxim Oreshkin, Minister of Economic Development of the Russian Federation; Young Global Leader, Boris Titov, Presidential Commissioner for Entrepreneurs' Rights of the Russian Federation moderated by Alessandra Galloni, Global News Editor, Reuters, Canada; Young Global Leader speaking during the Session "Keeping Russia Competitive" at the Annual Meeting 2019 of the World Economic Forum in Davos, January 23, 2019
Copyright by World Economic Forum / Ciaran McCrickard
Pokljuka, Slovenia, 06.25.2016: The contestants took part in the race OVIRATLON obstacle CHALLENGE Pokljuka, Slovenia on 06.25.2016
Another Beach Cricket Vertorama taken during my Worliday at Compton Bay on the Isle of Wight. This one shows a competitive dad maybe taking it all a bit too seriously :)
-----------------------------------
©2011 Jason Swain, All Rights Reserved
This image is not available for use on websites, blogs or other media without the explicit written permission of the photographer.
-----------------------------------
Links to my website, facebook and twitter can be found on my flickr profile
-----------------------------------
(FORT BENNING, Ga) Students from the Infantry and Armor Basic Leader courses train for their future careers and develop realistic tactical skills during a combined competitive maneuver exercise at Fort Benning's Good Hope Training Area November 16, 2016. Students are tasked with the objective of defending or seizing an installation. (Photos by: Patrick A. Albright/MCoE PAO Photographer)
PeÑafrancia Festival 2011
September 15, 2011
Civic Parade / Voyadores Festival
The Peñafrancia Festival is considered the biggest Marian celebration and one of this nation's premiere festivals, this is a month-long, city-wide, fun-filled, multi-cultural, family-oriented celebration as different events lined-up such as - the civic and military parades, a sports fest, exhibits, a regatta, cultural shows, a beauty pageant, and other colorful competitions - it's the biggest celebration and the greatest community benefit. It combines religion with culture and tradition, packing it all in a 9-day fiesta of biblical proportions.
Pokljuka, Slovenia, 06.25.2016: The contestants took part in the race OVIRATLON obstacle CHALLENGE Pokljuka, Slovenia on 06.25.2016
I suspect this might be the short lived Blackburn operation of North Western with a former LCSW Sherpa D106XPG leaving some Atlanteans and Nationals behind.
This is a purchased print - copyright resides with photographer.
GOVERNOR TOMBLIN DELIVERS
FAREWELL ADDRESS TO STATE LEGISLATURE
CHARLESTON, W.VA. (January 11, 2017)-Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin today
delivered his farewell address to the West Virginia Legislature in the House Chamber at the State Capitol Complex after serving six years as governor and a total of 42 years in public service in the Mountain State.
Information on Gov. Tomblin's accomplishments during his six-year
administration can be found here.
See below for the speech as prepared for delivery:
Mr. Speaker, Mr. President, members of the Board of Public Works, justices of
the Supreme Court of Appeals, members of the Legislature, distinguished guests, and my fellow West Virginians, I stand before you today, after six years in the Governor's office and 42 years in this grand statehouse, with a deep sense of gratitude and reflection and an equally profound hope for West Virginia's future.
Public service has anchored my life's work-from a young 22-year-old in this very House chamber, to a desk across the hall in the State Senate, the Senate President's podium for 17 years and now as your 35th Governor.
It has been the greatest honor-and the greatest reward-to serve the people of this state that we all love. Together, we have put West Virginia first and moved our state forward-even in the midst of tough times, including far-reaching economic shifts, budgetary challenges and historic natural disasters.
West Virginians are strongest in the toughest times. We come together. We lift each other up. And we don't just hope for a better future; we fight for it.
ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION & JOB CREATION
Working hard is exactly what we've done over the past six years to create new economic opportunities for the Mountain State.
We have all seen the dramatic impact of the coal industry's decline in our state. We've seen thousands of jobs lost. Families and communities struggling. People beginning to lose hope.
But I believe in-and have fought to reach-the light around the corner.
Shortly after becoming Governor, I pledged to go anywhere and meet with anyone to grow our state's economy. Across West Virginia, the country and the globe, we have succeeded.
Last year, global giant Procter & Gamble announced it would build its first U.S. manufacturing facility since the 1970s right here in West Virginia in the Eastern Panhandle. This will ultimately be a half-billion dollar investment in the Mountain State and result in hundreds of new jobs.
P&G chose our state after an exhaustive search of many others. And as numerous companies have discovered, I know they will find it to be the best decision they've ever made.
Toyota Motor Manufacturing West Virginia, which recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, has expanded continuously-nine times, in fact.
Today, Toyota employs more than 1,600 people. And the company has invested $1.4 billion since 1996.
Manufacturing jobs, like those at P&G in Martinsburg and Toyota in Buffalo, will be among the most critical to our state's economic future.
In my time as your Governor, I have fought for jobs like these and many more. From Amazon in Huntington and Macy's in Berkeley County, to Bombardier Aerospace manufacturing in Harrison County-which just in November announced an expansion of 150 jobs.
Companies are finding that when they invest in West Virginia, it pays off.
In fact, since 2011, West Virginia has seen more than $15 billion in new investments, spanning 275 projects. We have welcomed more than 60 new companies and secured 215 competitive expansion projects.
Over the past six years, investment projects have reached 22 industries and provided West Virginians with more than 12,000 good-paying jobs.
Right here in the Kanawha Valley, we have one of the best examples of that remarkable progress.
Gestamp has grown beyond the bounds of any of our expectations. Since opening in 2013, Gestamp has tripled production and more than doubled its workforce, now employing nearly 900 West Virginians.
I know that one of the fundamental reasons behind their growth has been our ability to transform workforce training in West Virginia for the better.
STRENGTHENING WORKFORCE TRAINING & EDUCATION
For example, the Learn and Earn program which we launched in 2012, gives our community and technical college students classroom instruction and hands-on work experience simultaneously. These students earn a competitive salary while giving employers a cost-effective way to recruit and train new employees.
Joe Atha is one of these students. A former coal miner, Joe is now a student at BridgeValley Community and Technical College where he is also supporting his family by earning a wage through the Learn and Earn program at Gestamp.
Joe is here today with his wife, Rita. Please stand to be recognized... along with Dr. Sarah Tucker, Chancellor of our Community and Technical College System.
Through forward-thinking programs like this, we can make a real, lasting difference for West Virginians.
That's why I personally convened the West Virginia Workforce Planning Council, which has helped us break down bureaucratic silos and better align classroom learning with the workforce needs of our businesses and industries.
We've even started that process in high schools through the Simulated Workplace program.
Today, our career technical education classrooms have been transformed into businesses. Medical classes are now clinics. Hospitality programs are now catering businesses and restaurants.
And instead of just going to a welding or carpentry class, our students are now part of a construction company, complete with job foremen and safety inspectors.
Just last month, we celebrated a heartwarming moment as a result of the hard work of more than 2,000 of these students from 12 high schools across the state.
Together with the Department of Education's Career Technical Education division, the West Virginia National Guard and our Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, we presented keys to tiny homes that were designed and built by these students for survivors of the historic floods that hit our state last June.
REBUILDING FROM NATURAL DISASTERS
Time and again, in the aftermath of this tragic flooding we have seen the selflessness of West Virginians make a difference for one another.
The "Big Hearts Give Tiny Homes" project was a shining example of that West Virginia spirit-one that made an overwhelming difference for 15 families impacted by the flooding, including Brenda Rivers from Nicholas County, whose home was a total loss in the flooding. Brenda now lives in a new tiny home built by students, including Chance Ballard from Spring Valley High School in Wayne County.
Please join me in welcoming Brenda and Chance ... along with Dr. Kathy D'Antoni ... whose visionary leadership at the Department of Education has made Simulated Workplace the success it is today.
Working hand-in-hand with the federal government and local officials, our immediate response to the flooding was quick and effective. We were able to expedite federal assistance to our communities and families in need. And over the past seven months, we have been able to shift our focus to long-term recovery.
Through a public-private approach, we launched the RISE West Virginia program, which in total has provided nearly $2 million to 230 small businesses in the flood-impacted counties-funding that is helping them reopen or continue operations and keep fueling our local economies.
I would like to thank, once again, West Virginia native and champion Brad Smith-the CEO of Intuit, one of the world's leading financial software companies-and his wife Alys for their family donation of $500,000, which gave the RISE program its first, needed boost.
West Virginia has experienced more than its share of disasters during my time as your Governor-this historic flooding, the Derecho, Hurricane Sandy, Winter Storms Thor and Jonas and the water crisis.
Through it all, we have grown stronger, we have improved our emergency response capabilities and we have strengthened public safety.
Adversity demands resilience. That's what we have shown in these challenges and many more-including one of the most trying epidemics I believe the Mountain State has ever faced-with the sharp rise in substance abuse and addiction.
FIGHTING SUBSTANCE ABUSE
That's why in 2011, I issued an Executive Order to create the Governor's Advisory Council on Substance Abuse, made up of representatives of substance abuse prevention, behavioral medicine, law enforcement, child and adolescent psychology, the legal system, residential treatment facilities, the public school system, the faith community and health care.
My vision for this Council was a community-driven, ground-up approach to tackling this epidemic. Through community-based task forces in six regions across the state, we have made significant progress and enacted life-saving reforms.
We now look at substance abuse as an illness-not a crime.
We have decreased the number of meth labs across the state as the result of making it more difficult to obtain pseudoephedrine.
We have expanded access to the life-saving drug Narcan to first responders and family members of those struggling with addiction. Last year alone, hundreds of lives were saved as a result.
We have substance abuse prevention services in all 55 counties. We have expanded and improved community-based treatment options and recovery services. Across the state, we have 188 crisis detox beds in residential treatment facilities with more sites under development.
We have 118 beds designated for youth and postpartum treatment as well as short-term and long-term residential treatment. And we have over 1,000 beds for those seeking help and support through peer and provider recovery homes and facilities.
We are working closely with our prisons and correctional facilities to ensure all West Virginians are provided access to substance abuse rehabilitation.
In fact, the Division of Corrections operates nine residential substance abuse treatment units in correctional centers across the state and we have expanded this model to our regional jail facilities as well.
And-through Justice Reinvestment-we have successfully worked to address substance abuse, which is the root cause of many crimes.
Because of that work, we have expanded drug courts, substance abuse counseling and greater supervision after release.
And ultimately, we have better controlled incarceration rates, which prevented our state from having to build a new $200 million prison that was projected to be needed because of our previous rising prison population.
Just this week, we announced the news that West Virginia reached settlements with two additional drug wholesalers totaling $36 million, which resolves allegations by our state regarding the distribution of controlled substances in West Virginia.
This brings the total amount of drug settlement money paid to our state by drug wholesalers to $47 million, which will expand our efforts even further for more law enforcement diversion options, more treatment recovery services and many more efforts to fight this epidemic.
I am also deeply proud of the work we have done in creating the state's first 24-hour substance abuse call line, 844-HELP-4-WV, which has received nearly 8,500 calls since it launched in September 2015.
The help line provides referral support for those seeking help and recovery services. It's an opportunity for people who are struggling to talk with someone who cares, get connected to treatment options and begin the road to recovery.
No caller is ever placed on hold and they are immediately connected with treatment staff representing the best and most appropriate treatment options for them.
Administered by First Choice Health Systems of West Virginia, the help line is staffed by certified professionals, many who have overcome addiction themselves and want to help others turn their lives around as well.
One young gentleman I met did just that because he picked up the phone.
A.J. Walker, a recovering alcoholic and addict, was given the help line number by his brother.
A.J. said when he called, he was treated like a person-not like a drug addict-and he found hope. They got him into a detox facility and into recovery, and the help line staff called and checked in on him every step of the way.
Today, A.J. is employed by the treatment facility that helped him and he's in school studying to become a substance abuse counselor.
A.J. is here today with his brother, Andrew, and Vickie Jones ... Commissioner of our Bureau of Behavioral Health and Health Facilities.
A.J. we are so proud of you. And today ... you are giving hope to so many.
When I hear stories like A.J.'s, I am incredibly optimistic for West Virginia's future. With economic changes, job losses and families struggling, we have to seize every opportunity before us to become stronger as individuals and as a state.
One such opportunity lies in Boone and Lincoln Counties, where I believe we have the chance to revitalize Southern West Virginia and make the Mountain State stronger.
EMBRACING THE FUTURE
It was here in this chamber, one year ago during my State of the State Address, where I announced plans for the largest development project in West Virginia's history at the former Hobet surface mine site.
Since last year at this time, we have worked every day and we have made tremendous progress on this project, which is now known as Rock Creek Development Park.
We have worked with local landowners, who are generously donating land that will result in more than 12,000 developable acres for Rock Creek, which is the size of the city of Huntington.
The West Virginia National Guard-Rock Creek's first tenant-is on the ground with newly-expanded operations for maintenance work and training.
And we have a long-term strategic plan now in place, which looks at demographics and market trends to help us identify the best investment opportunities for Rock Creek.
For generations, our coal miners, workers and their families have kept West Virginia strong. Now, it's our turn to help them.
By realizing the full potential of Rock Creek Development Park for job creation and economic diversification, we can build up a region of our state hard hit by the downturn in the coal industry.
My vision for Rock Creek started many years ago as I rode my four-wheeler around the hills of Southern West Virginia and saw the possibilities that such an enormous site-with such a great amount of flat land-could have.
Embracing opportunities like this takes careful thought and planning, and this public-private project will require some investment by the state. But I believe wholeheartedly that the returns will vastly exceed our investment.
That isn't something I say lightly.
Throughout my 42 years in public service, fiscal responsibility has been at the heart of every project I've undertaken, every policy I've fought for and every decision I've made.
GOVERNING RESPONSIBLY
As a result of much hard work, over the years we have decreased taxes, embraced responsible spending, made great progress toward paying off the state's unfunded liabilities and controlled growth of the state's budget.
We have realized milestone tax reforms, including progressive elimination of the food tax, saving West Virginians $162 million each year.
We have gradually eliminated the state's business franchise tax and decreased the corporate net income tax-changes that make West Virginia more attractive for business investments.
As a result of responsible reforms, last year the National Council on Compensation Insurance filed the 12th reduction in workers' compensation premiums in 12 years. And West Virginia employers have seen a savings of more than $352 million since we privatized the program in 2006.
We addressed our Other Post Employment Benefits by dedicating $30 million annually to pay off the $5 billion unfunded liability, which was caused by previous promises that became too expensive to maintain.
As I did last year, I present to you today a budget that is balanced, but a budget that requires difficult decisions and thinking about the next generation rather than the next election.
I continue to be proud of the fiscal responsibility we have shown not just for the past six years, but over the last generation. Our commitment to paying down our long-term liabilities has not wavered and we have responsibly reduced taxes on both our employers and our employees.
Because of our improved fiscal policies, we have been able to refinance bonds that pay for schools, water and sewer lines, college campus improvements and roads to save more than $100 million in the past six years.
So when people ask me why I'm so concerned with maintaining our Rainy Day Fund and our bond rating, that's why. It means more schools, more roads and more homes with clean water.
As part of tough decisions during tough economic times, we have cut more than $600 million from our budget in the past five years. While we all continue to hope that the coal industry will rebound, that hasn't happened quickly and it likely won't ever return to the levels that we once saw.
We continue to work to diversify our economy and I know the improvements we've made will pay long-term dividends in job growth and investment.
But we're not there yet, and part of being fiscally responsible means making sure that we can pay our bills without taking the Rainy Day Fund to dangerously low levels or cutting services to the point where we cannot care for our people or educate our students.
Therefore, the budget I present to you today includes a 1 percent increase in the consumer sales tax to raise $200 million and elimination of the current sales tax exemption on telecommunications services-a move that would make our system the same as 80 percent of the country.
I understand these taxes will not be easy, but asking people to pay a few dollars more now is a far better choice than seeing PEIA cards not accepted by medical providers or going back to the days when we couldn't finance school and road improvements, or even pay the gas bill at the Governor's Mansion.
I urge you to consider these responsible actions to balance the budget until the brighter economic picture that we all expect comes into focus.
CLOSING
I believe the thing that compelled each of us to public service is our love for West Virginia. And that is the very thing that should compel us to work together.
When I became your Governor, I said that we must put West Virginia first.
That's what we have done. And I encourage you to continue working together out of that deep devotion to our beloved state-in the coming year and beyond.
I am proud of the work that we have accomplished. I look forward to the leadership of Governor-elect Jim Justice and I thank all of you who have worked with me over the years.
I thank my cabinet members and agency directors. And I thank my dedicated staff members who have worked every day-not for me, but for the people of West Virginia.
It has been the honor of my life to be your Governor-to be West Virginia's Governor. Joanne and I thank the people of West Virginia for your abiding trust, counsel and support.
And we look forward-with the greatest hope and optimism-to an even stronger West Virginia.
Thank you. God bless you. And God bless the great state of West Virginia.
###
Photos available for media use. All photos should be attributed “Photo courtesy of Office of the Governor.”
GOVERNOR TOMBLIN DELIVERS
FAREWELL ADDRESS TO STATE LEGISLATURE
CHARLESTON, W.VA. (January 11, 2017)-Gov. Earl Ray Tomblin today
delivered his farewell address to the West Virginia Legislature in the House Chamber at the State Capitol Complex after serving six years as governor and a total of 42 years in public service in the Mountain State.
Information on Gov. Tomblin's accomplishments during his six-year
administration can be found here.
See below for the speech as prepared for delivery:
Mr. Speaker, Mr. President, members of the Board of Public Works, justices of
the Supreme Court of Appeals, members of the Legislature, distinguished guests, and my fellow West Virginians, I stand before you today, after six years in the Governor's office and 42 years in this grand statehouse, with a deep sense of gratitude and reflection and an equally profound hope for West Virginia's future.
Public service has anchored my life's work-from a young 22-year-old in this very House chamber, to a desk across the hall in the State Senate, the Senate President's podium for 17 years and now as your 35th Governor.
It has been the greatest honor-and the greatest reward-to serve the people of this state that we all love. Together, we have put West Virginia first and moved our state forward-even in the midst of tough times, including far-reaching economic shifts, budgetary challenges and historic natural disasters.
West Virginians are strongest in the toughest times. We come together. We lift each other up. And we don't just hope for a better future; we fight for it.
ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION & JOB CREATION
Working hard is exactly what we've done over the past six years to create new economic opportunities for the Mountain State.
We have all seen the dramatic impact of the coal industry's decline in our state. We've seen thousands of jobs lost. Families and communities struggling. People beginning to lose hope.
But I believe in-and have fought to reach-the light around the corner.
Shortly after becoming Governor, I pledged to go anywhere and meet with anyone to grow our state's economy. Across West Virginia, the country and the globe, we have succeeded.
Last year, global giant Procter & Gamble announced it would build its first U.S. manufacturing facility since the 1970s right here in West Virginia in the Eastern Panhandle. This will ultimately be a half-billion dollar investment in the Mountain State and result in hundreds of new jobs.
P&G chose our state after an exhaustive search of many others. And as numerous companies have discovered, I know they will find it to be the best decision they've ever made.
Toyota Motor Manufacturing West Virginia, which recently celebrated its 20th anniversary, has expanded continuously-nine times, in fact.
Today, Toyota employs more than 1,600 people. And the company has invested $1.4 billion since 1996.
Manufacturing jobs, like those at P&G in Martinsburg and Toyota in Buffalo, will be among the most critical to our state's economic future.
In my time as your Governor, I have fought for jobs like these and many more. From Amazon in Huntington and Macy's in Berkeley County, to Bombardier Aerospace manufacturing in Harrison County-which just in November announced an expansion of 150 jobs.
Companies are finding that when they invest in West Virginia, it pays off.
In fact, since 2011, West Virginia has seen more than $15 billion in new investments, spanning 275 projects. We have welcomed more than 60 new companies and secured 215 competitive expansion projects.
Over the past six years, investment projects have reached 22 industries and provided West Virginians with more than 12,000 good-paying jobs.
Right here in the Kanawha Valley, we have one of the best examples of that remarkable progress.
Gestamp has grown beyond the bounds of any of our expectations. Since opening in 2013, Gestamp has tripled production and more than doubled its workforce, now employing nearly 900 West Virginians.
I know that one of the fundamental reasons behind their growth has been our ability to transform workforce training in West Virginia for the better.
STRENGTHENING WORKFORCE TRAINING & EDUCATION
For example, the Learn and Earn program which we launched in 2012, gives our community and technical college students classroom instruction and hands-on work experience simultaneously. These students earn a competitive salary while giving employers a cost-effective way to recruit and train new employees.
Joe Atha is one of these students. A former coal miner, Joe is now a student at BridgeValley Community and Technical College where he is also supporting his family by earning a wage through the Learn and Earn program at Gestamp.
Joe is here today with his wife, Rita. Please stand to be recognized... along with Dr. Sarah Tucker, Chancellor of our Community and Technical College System.
Through forward-thinking programs like this, we can make a real, lasting difference for West Virginians.
That's why I personally convened the West Virginia Workforce Planning Council, which has helped us break down bureaucratic silos and better align classroom learning with the workforce needs of our businesses and industries.
We've even started that process in high schools through the Simulated Workplace program.
Today, our career technical education classrooms have been transformed into businesses. Medical classes are now clinics. Hospitality programs are now catering businesses and restaurants.
And instead of just going to a welding or carpentry class, our students are now part of a construction company, complete with job foremen and safety inspectors.
Just last month, we celebrated a heartwarming moment as a result of the hard work of more than 2,000 of these students from 12 high schools across the state.
Together with the Department of Education's Career Technical Education division, the West Virginia National Guard and our Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster, we presented keys to tiny homes that were designed and built by these students for survivors of the historic floods that hit our state last June.
REBUILDING FROM NATURAL DISASTERS
Time and again, in the aftermath of this tragic flooding we have seen the selflessness of West Virginians make a difference for one another.
The "Big Hearts Give Tiny Homes" project was a shining example of that West Virginia spirit-one that made an overwhelming difference for 15 families impacted by the flooding, including Brenda Rivers from Nicholas County, whose home was a total loss in the flooding. Brenda now lives in a new tiny home built by students, including Chance Ballard from Spring Valley High School in Wayne County.
Please join me in welcoming Brenda and Chance ... along with Dr. Kathy D'Antoni ... whose visionary leadership at the Department of Education has made Simulated Workplace the success it is today.
Working hand-in-hand with the federal government and local officials, our immediate response to the flooding was quick and effective. We were able to expedite federal assistance to our communities and families in need. And over the past seven months, we have been able to shift our focus to long-term recovery.
Through a public-private approach, we launched the RISE West Virginia program, which in total has provided nearly $2 million to 230 small businesses in the flood-impacted counties-funding that is helping them reopen or continue operations and keep fueling our local economies.
I would like to thank, once again, West Virginia native and champion Brad Smith-the CEO of Intuit, one of the world's leading financial software companies-and his wife Alys for their family donation of $500,000, which gave the RISE program its first, needed boost.
West Virginia has experienced more than its share of disasters during my time as your Governor-this historic flooding, the Derecho, Hurricane Sandy, Winter Storms Thor and Jonas and the water crisis.
Through it all, we have grown stronger, we have improved our emergency response capabilities and we have strengthened public safety.
Adversity demands resilience. That's what we have shown in these challenges and many more-including one of the most trying epidemics I believe the Mountain State has ever faced-with the sharp rise in substance abuse and addiction.
FIGHTING SUBSTANCE ABUSE
That's why in 2011, I issued an Executive Order to create the Governor's Advisory Council on Substance Abuse, made up of representatives of substance abuse prevention, behavioral medicine, law enforcement, child and adolescent psychology, the legal system, residential treatment facilities, the public school system, the faith community and health care.
My vision for this Council was a community-driven, ground-up approach to tackling this epidemic. Through community-based task forces in six regions across the state, we have made significant progress and enacted life-saving reforms.
We now look at substance abuse as an illness-not a crime.
We have decreased the number of meth labs across the state as the result of making it more difficult to obtain pseudoephedrine.
We have expanded access to the life-saving drug Narcan to first responders and family members of those struggling with addiction. Last year alone, hundreds of lives were saved as a result.
We have substance abuse prevention services in all 55 counties. We have expanded and improved community-based treatment options and recovery services. Across the state, we have 188 crisis detox beds in residential treatment facilities with more sites under development.
We have 118 beds designated for youth and postpartum treatment as well as short-term and long-term residential treatment. And we have over 1,000 beds for those seeking help and support through peer and provider recovery homes and facilities.
We are working closely with our prisons and correctional facilities to ensure all West Virginians are provided access to substance abuse rehabilitation.
In fact, the Division of Corrections operates nine residential substance abuse treatment units in correctional centers across the state and we have expanded this model to our regional jail facilities as well.
And-through Justice Reinvestment-we have successfully worked to address substance abuse, which is the root cause of many crimes.
Because of that work, we have expanded drug courts, substance abuse counseling and greater supervision after release.
And ultimately, we have better controlled incarceration rates, which prevented our state from having to build a new $200 million prison that was projected to be needed because of our previous rising prison population.
Just this week, we announced the news that West Virginia reached settlements with two additional drug wholesalers totaling $36 million, which resolves allegations by our state regarding the distribution of controlled substances in West Virginia.
This brings the total amount of drug settlement money paid to our state by drug wholesalers to $47 million, which will expand our efforts even further for more law enforcement diversion options, more treatment recovery services and many more efforts to fight this epidemic.
I am also deeply proud of the work we have done in creating the state's first 24-hour substance abuse call line, 844-HELP-4-WV, which has received nearly 8,500 calls since it launched in September 2015.
The help line provides referral support for those seeking help and recovery services. It's an opportunity for people who are struggling to talk with someone who cares, get connected to treatment options and begin the road to recovery.
No caller is ever placed on hold and they are immediately connected with treatment staff representing the best and most appropriate treatment options for them.
Administered by First Choice Health Systems of West Virginia, the help line is staffed by certified professionals, many who have overcome addiction themselves and want to help others turn their lives around as well.
One young gentleman I met did just that because he picked up the phone.
A.J. Walker, a recovering alcoholic and addict, was given the help line number by his brother.
A.J. said when he called, he was treated like a person-not like a drug addict-and he found hope. They got him into a detox facility and into recovery, and the help line staff called and checked in on him every step of the way.
Today, A.J. is employed by the treatment facility that helped him and he's in school studying to become a substance abuse counselor.
A.J. is here today with his brother, Andrew, and Vickie Jones ... Commissioner of our Bureau of Behavioral Health and Health Facilities.
A.J. we are so proud of you. And today ... you are giving hope to so many.
When I hear stories like A.J.'s, I am incredibly optimistic for West Virginia's future. With economic changes, job losses and families struggling, we have to seize every opportunity before us to become stronger as individuals and as a state.
One such opportunity lies in Boone and Lincoln Counties, where I believe we have the chance to revitalize Southern West Virginia and make the Mountain State stronger.
EMBRACING THE FUTURE
It was here in this chamber, one year ago during my State of the State Address, where I announced plans for the largest development project in West Virginia's history at the former Hobet surface mine site.
Since last year at this time, we have worked every day and we have made tremendous progress on this project, which is now known as Rock Creek Development Park.
We have worked with local landowners, who are generously donating land that will result in more than 12,000 developable acres for Rock Creek, which is the size of the city of Huntington.
The West Virginia National Guard-Rock Creek's first tenant-is on the ground with newly-expanded operations for maintenance work and training.
And we have a long-term strategic plan now in place, which looks at demographics and market trends to help us identify the best investment opportunities for Rock Creek.
For generations, our coal miners, workers and their families have kept West Virginia strong. Now, it's our turn to help them.
By realizing the full potential of Rock Creek Development Park for job creation and economic diversification, we can build up a region of our state hard hit by the downturn in the coal industry.
My vision for Rock Creek started many years ago as I rode my four-wheeler around the hills of Southern West Virginia and saw the possibilities that such an enormous site-with such a great amount of flat land-could have.
Embracing opportunities like this takes careful thought and planning, and this public-private project will require some investment by the state. But I believe wholeheartedly that the returns will vastly exceed our investment.
That isn't something I say lightly.
Throughout my 42 years in public service, fiscal responsibility has been at the heart of every project I've undertaken, every policy I've fought for and every decision I've made.
GOVERNING RESPONSIBLY
As a result of much hard work, over the years we have decreased taxes, embraced responsible spending, made great progress toward paying off the state's unfunded liabilities and controlled growth of the state's budget.
We have realized milestone tax reforms, including progressive elimination of the food tax, saving West Virginians $162 million each year.
We have gradually eliminated the state's business franchise tax and decreased the corporate net income tax-changes that make West Virginia more attractive for business investments.
As a result of responsible reforms, last year the National Council on Compensation Insurance filed the 12th reduction in workers' compensation premiums in 12 years. And West Virginia employers have seen a savings of more than $352 million since we privatized the program in 2006.
We addressed our Other Post Employment Benefits by dedicating $30 million annually to pay off the $5 billion unfunded liability, which was caused by previous promises that became too expensive to maintain.
As I did last year, I present to you today a budget that is balanced, but a budget that requires difficult decisions and thinking about the next generation rather than the next election.
I continue to be proud of the fiscal responsibility we have shown not just for the past six years, but over the last generation. Our commitment to paying down our long-term liabilities has not wavered and we have responsibly reduced taxes on both our employers and our employees.
Because of our improved fiscal policies, we have been able to refinance bonds that pay for schools, water and sewer lines, college campus improvements and roads to save more than $100 million in the past six years.
So when people ask me why I'm so concerned with maintaining our Rainy Day Fund and our bond rating, that's why. It means more schools, more roads and more homes with clean water.
As part of tough decisions during tough economic times, we have cut more than $600 million from our budget in the past five years. While we all continue to hope that the coal industry will rebound, that hasn't happened quickly and it likely won't ever return to the levels that we once saw.
We continue to work to diversify our economy and I know the improvements we've made will pay long-term dividends in job growth and investment.
But we're not there yet, and part of being fiscally responsible means making sure that we can pay our bills without taking the Rainy Day Fund to dangerously low levels or cutting services to the point where we cannot care for our people or educate our students.
Therefore, the budget I present to you today includes a 1 percent increase in the consumer sales tax to raise $200 million and elimination of the current sales tax exemption on telecommunications services-a move that would make our system the same as 80 percent of the country.
I understand these taxes will not be easy, but asking people to pay a few dollars more now is a far better choice than seeing PEIA cards not accepted by medical providers or going back to the days when we couldn't finance school and road improvements, or even pay the gas bill at the Governor's Mansion.
I urge you to consider these responsible actions to balance the budget until the brighter economic picture that we all expect comes into focus.
CLOSING
I believe the thing that compelled each of us to public service is our love for West Virginia. And that is the very thing that should compel us to work together.
When I became your Governor, I said that we must put West Virginia first.
That's what we have done. And I encourage you to continue working together out of that deep devotion to our beloved state-in the coming year and beyond.
I am proud of the work that we have accomplished. I look forward to the leadership of Governor-elect Jim Justice and I thank all of you who have worked with me over the years.
I thank my cabinet members and agency directors. And I thank my dedicated staff members who have worked every day-not for me, but for the people of West Virginia.
It has been the honor of my life to be your Governor-to be West Virginia's Governor. Joanne and I thank the people of West Virginia for your abiding trust, counsel and support.
And we look forward-with the greatest hope and optimism-to an even stronger West Virginia.
Thank you. God bless you. And God bless the great state of West Virginia.
###
Photos available for media use. All photos should be attributed “Photo courtesy of Office of the Governor.”
Sir Stiling Moss
DRIVERS + MOTORING PERSONALITIES
www.flickr.com/photos/45676495@N05/sets/72157632173986649...
Born 17th September 1929, in London and raised in Bray, Berkshire, the son of Alfred Moss, a dentist and amateur racing driver who regularly raced at Brooklands and participated in the 1924 Indianapolis 500.
Stirling and his sister Pat were both very successful competitive horse riders from an early age and both were keen motorsport participants.
Pat going on to be a very successful champion rally driver, who later married Eric Carlsonn.
Stirling, who raced from 1948 to 1962, won 212 of the 529 races he entered, including 16 Formula One Grands Prix. He would compete in as many as 62 races in a single year and drove 84 different makes of car over the course of his racing career, including Lotus, Vanwall, Maserati, Jaguar, Ferrari and Porsche. Like many drivers of the era, he competed in several formulae—very often on the same day.
He retired in 1962 after a crash left him in a coma for a month, as afterwards he felt unable to continue driving at a professional level.
Often referred to as the greatest driver never to win the Formula One drivers championship.
Stiling's early carrer saw him racing Formula 3 500cc Coopers and Kiefts which he continued racing after graduating into more senior formulae.
Moss was also a competent rally driver and is one of only three people to have won a Coupe d'Or (Gold Cup) for three consecutive penalty-free runs on the Alpine Rally (Coupe des Alpes). In addition, he finished second in the 1952 Monte Carlo Rally driving a Sunbeam-Talbot 90 with co-driver John Cooper. In 1954, he became the first foreign driver to win the 12 Hours of Sebring, sharing the Cunningham team's 1.5-liter O.S.C.A. MT4 with American Bill Lloyd.
In Formula One he raced a privatly entered Maserati 250F, before joining the Mercedes team in 1955, scoring his first Grand Prix victory in the 1955 British Grand Prix, held at Aintree.
He moved to Vanwall for 1957, and through 1958, until the teams retirement when he teamed up with Rob Walker for 1960 and 1961 when he scored perhaps his greatest ever win in at Monaco in a Rob Walker entered Lotus 18 in the face of a trio of all, conquering Ferrari 156's,
In 1962 during testing at Goodwood during the Glover Trophy, Moss was seriously injured when his Lotus left the track in an unexplained acciden and after a long converlessance and a short test he decided to retire from front line racing. At the time it was widely rumoured that Moss had already signed a pre-contract to drive for Ferrari for the 1962 season. During his Formula One carreer he had finished second in the World Drivers Championship on four consequtive occassions.
Outside of Formula One Moss had also starred in other forms of racing, winning the Nurburgring 1000km for the three years 1958-60
Retirement can seem a big word, but Stirling has remained very active in competitive Historic Racing as well as a busy carreer as a journalist, TV journalist, writer and ambassador to the sport.
Hardly retired he raced in for Audi in the BTCC with Martin Brundle having previosly competed for Mercedes in the 1974 World Cup Rally, he shared a Holden Torana with Jack Brabham in the 1976 Bathurst 1000. and a Volkswagen Golf GTI with Denny Hulme in the 1979 Benson & Hedges 500 at Pukekohe Park Raceway in New Zealand
Finally announcing his retirement at the Le Mans Legends race in 2011.
Always a much loved and respectect character Moss, was inducted into the International Motorsports Hall of Fame, He received the 2005 Segrave Trophy. n 2006, Moss was awarded the FIA gold medal in recognition of his outstanding contribution to motorsport.
Receiving his Knighthood in 2000 at Buckingham Palace
Shot at Donington Historic Festival, 6th May 2012 Ref: 84-439
"Well life has a funny way of sneaking up on you
When you think everything's okay and everything's going right
And life has a funny way of helping you out when
You think everything's gone wrong and everything blows up in your face"
(20140309 031_pp_cr)
A Text, in english, from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
Paragliding is a recreational and competitive flying sport. A paraglider is a free-flying, foot-launched aircraft. The pilot sits in a harness suspended below a fabric wing, whose shape is formed by the pressure of air entering vents in the front of the wing.
n 1954, Walter Neumark predicted (in an article in Flight magazine) a time when a glider pilot would be “able to launch himself by running over the edge of a cliff or down a slope … whether on a rock-climbing holiday in Skye or ski-ing in the Alps”.[1]
In 1961, the French engineer Pierre Lemoigne produced improved parachute designs which led to the Para-Commander (‘PC’), which had cut-outs at the rear and sides which enabled it to be towed into the air and steered – leading to parasailing/parascending.
Sometimes credited with the greatest development in parachutes since Leonardo da Vinci, the American Domina Jalbert invented in 1964 the Parafoil which had sectioned cells in an aerofoil shape; an open leading edge and a closed trailing edge, inflated by passage through the air – the ram-air design.[2]
Meanwhile, David Barish was developing the Sail Wing for recovery of NASA space capsules – “slope soaring was a way of testing out … the Sail Wing”.[3] After tests on Hunter Mountain, New York in September 1965, he went on to promote ‘slope soaring’ as a summer activity for ski resorts (apparently without great success).[4] NASA originated the term ‘paraglider’ in the early 1960’s, and ‘paragliding’ was first used in the early 1970’s to describe foot-launching of gliding parachutes.
Author Walter Neumark wrote Operating Procedures for Ascending Parachutes, and he and a group of enthusiasts with a passion for tow-launching ‘PCs’ and ram-air parachutes eventually broke away from the British Parachute Association to form the British Association of Parascending Clubs (BAPC) in 1973.
These threads were pulled together in June 1978 by three friends Jean-Claude Bétemps, André Bohn and Gérard Bosson from Mieussy Haute-Savoie, France. After inspiration from an article on ‘slope soaring’ in the Parachute Manual magazine by parachutist & publisher Dan Poynter,[5] they calculated that on a suitable slope, a ‘square’ ram-air parachute could be inflated by running down the slope; Bétemps launched from Pointe du Pertuiset, Mieussy, and flew 100 m. Bohn followed him and glided down to the football pitch in the valley 1000 metres below.[6] ‘Parapente’ (pente being French for slope) was born.
Through the 1980’s and since, it has been a story of constantly improving equipment and ever greater numbers of paragliding pilots. The first World Championship was held in Kössen, Austria in 1989.
he paraglider wing or canopy is known in aeronautical engineering as a ram-air airfoil, or parafoil. Such wings comprise two layers of fabric which are connected to internal supporting material in such a way as to form a row of cells. By leaving most of the cells open only at the leading edge, incoming air (ram-air pressure) keeps the wing inflated, thus maintaining its shape. When inflated, the wing's cross-section has the typical teardrop aerofoil shape.
The pilot is supported underneath the wing by a network of lines. The lines are gathered into two sets as left and right risers. The risers collect the lines in rows from front to back in either 3 or 4 rows. The risers are connected to the pilot's harness by two carabiners.
Paraglider wings typically have an area of 20-35 m² with a span of 8–12 m, and weigh 3–7 kg. Combined weight of wing, harness, reserve, instruments, helmet, etc. is around 12–18 kg.
The glide ratio of paragliders ranges from 8:1 for recreational wings, to about 11:1 for modern competition models. For comparison, a typical skydiving parachute will achieve about 3:1 glide. A hang glider will achieve about 15:1 glide. An idling (gliding) Cessna 152 will achieve 9:1. Some sailplanes can achieve a glide ratio of up to 60:1.
The speed range of paragliders is typically 20–50 km/h (12-30 mph), from stall speed to maximum speed. Beginner wings will be in the lower part of this range, high-performance wings in the upper part of the range. The range for safe flying will be somewhat smaller.
Modern paraglider wings are made of high-performance non-porous fabrics such as Porcher Sport & Gelvenor, with Dyneema/Spectra or Kevlar/Aramid lines.
For storage and carrying, the wing is usually folded into a rucksack (bag), which can then be stowed in a large backpack along with the harness. For pilots who may not want the added weight or fuss of a backpack, the harness itself can be used to carry the wing, though this is less comfortable, and thus less favorable for longer hikes. In this case the wing (within the rucksack) is buckled into the harness seat, which is then slung over the shoulders. Recent developments in light-weight harness design include the ability to turn the harness inside out such that it becomes the backpack, thus removing the need for a second storage system.
Tandem paragliders, designed to carry the pilot and one passenger, are larger but otherwise similar. They usually fly faster with higher trim speeds, are more resistant to collapse, and have a slightly higher sink rate compared to solo paragliders.
The pilot is loosely and comfortably buckled into a harness which offers support in both the standing and sitting positions. Modern harnesses are designed to be as comfortable as a lounge chair in the sitting position. Many harnesses even have an adjustable 'lumbar support'.
A reserve parachute is also typically connected to a paragliding harness.
Parachutes, including skydiving canopies, are generally used for descending, such as jumping out of an aircraft or for dropping cargo; while paragliders are generally used for ascending. Paragliders are categorized as "ascending parachutes" by canopy manufacturers worldwide, and are designed for "free flying" meaning flight without a tether (for tethered flight amusement, see parasailing). However, in areas without high launch points, paragliders may be towed aloft by a ground vehicle or a stationary winch, after which they are released, creating much the same effect as a mountain launch. Such tethered launches can give a paraglider pilot a higher starting point than many mountains do, offering similar opportunity to catch thermals and to remain airborne by "thermaling" and other forms of lift. As free flight, paragliding requires the significant skill and training required for aircraft control, including aeronautical theory, meteorological knowledge and forecasting, personal/emotional safety considerations, adherence to applicable Federal Aviation Regulations (US), and knowledge of equipment care and maintenance.
Most pilots use varios and radios when flying; some more advanced pilots also use GPS units.
Birds are highly sensitive to atmospheric pressure, and can tell when they are in rising or sinking air. People can sense the acceleration when they first hit a thermal, but cannot detect the difference between constant rising air and constant sinking air, so turn to technology to help.
A variometer indicates climb-rate (or sink-rate) with audio signals (beeps which increase in pitch and tempo as you accelerate upwards and a droning sound which gets deeper as your descent rate increases) and/or a visual display. It also shows altitude: either above takeoff, above sea level, or (at higher altitudes) "flight level".
The main purpose of a variometer is in helping a pilot find and stay in the "core" of a thermal to maximise height gain, and conversely indicating when he or she is in sinking air, and needs to find rising air.
The more advanced variometers have an integrated GPS. This is not only more convenient, but also allows to record the flight in three dimensions. The track of the flight is digitally signed, stored and can be downloaded after the landing. Digitally signed tracks can be used as proof for record claims, replacing the 'old' method of photo documentation.
Control:
Speedbar mechanism.
Brakes: Controls held in each of the pilot’s hands connect to the trailing edge of the left and right sides of the wing. These controls are called 'brakes' and provide the primary and most general means of control in a paraglider. The brakes are used to adjust speed, to steer (in addition to weight-shift), and flare (during landing).
Weight Shift: In addition to manipulating the brakes, a paraglider pilot must also lean in order to steer properly. Such 'weight-shifting' can also be used for more limited steering when brake use is unavailable, such as when under 'big ears' (see below). More advanced control techniques may also involve weight-shifting.
Speed Bar: A kind of foot control called the 'speed bar' (also 'accelerator') attaches to the paragliding harness and connects to the leading edge of the paraglider wing, usually through a system of at least two pulleys (see animation in margin). This control is used to increase speed, and does so by decreasing the wing's angle of attack. This control is necessary because the brakes can only slow the wing from what is called 'trim speed' (no brakes applied). The accelerator is needed to go faster than this.
More advanced means of control can be obtained by manipulating the paraglider's risers or lines directly:
* Most commonly, the lines connecting to the outermost points of the wing's leading edge can be used to induce the wingtips to fold under. The technique, known as 'big ears', is used to increase rate of descent (see picture).
* The risers connecting to the rear of the wing can also be manipulated for steering if the brakes have been severed or are otherwise unavailable.
* In a 'B-line stall', the second set of risers from the leading-edge/front is gently pulled down to put a crease in the upper surface of the wing. This destroys the laminar flow of air over the aerofoil, dramatically reducing the lift produced by the canopy, thus inducing a higher rate of descent.
Another text, in english, from the addrees www.alpsurf.com/paraglidinge.htm
Paraglider flies is the simplest type to regard the world from the bird perspective some steps a gently bent slope down and already overcome pilot and passenger the force of gravity and to float of it. Our professional pilots are extremely qualified and possess a special pilot banknote, which permits it to them to offer paraglider of passenger flights.
Texto, em português, do site "O radical", que pode ser visto no endereço: oradical.uol.com.br/parapente/ondepraticarparapente.asp
O parapente é um esporte que mistura toda a adrenalina com a tranqüilidade, em uma sintonia perfeita. É uma modalidade na qual o piloto e o parapente entram em total sintonia com a natureza.
A principal recomendação do paraglidingé respeitar todas as normas de segurança. Dessa maneira você poderá desfilar pelos ares sem a menor preocupação.
A história do esporte está diretamente relacionada com a conquista do espaço. É que os primeiros modelos de parapente foram confeccionados especialmente para as espaçonaves norte-americanas.
Hoje o esporte é praticado por mais de 100 mil pessoas em todo o mundo. O Brasil ocupa atualmente a 7ª colocação do ranking.
Existem escolas especializadas no parapente que oferecem toda a infra-estrutura necessária para quem quer iniciar no esporte.
Além do curso preparatório que é obrigatório, você terá acesso ao equipamento, entre outros.
Antes de comprar seu equipamento faça um salto em dupla com outro atleta. A partir daí, você vai descobrir se o parapente é seu esporte ou não.
O parapente foi desenvolvido inicialmente para a utilização das espaçonaves do Projeto Apolo, pela Nasa. O sucesso foi tão grande que logo a descoberta tomou conta da cabeça da população.
O equipamento de parapente apresenta algumas características diferentes dos outros esportes, sendo basicamente composto de quatro itens: o velame, o selete, o pára-quedas de emergência e o capacete. O velame constitui a maior parte do equipamento e, é dividido em três partes: a vela, a linha e os tirantes.
A vela é feita de um tipo de nylon especial e funciona como uma asa. Uma de suas características principais é a resistência e a deformação, ou seja, o tecido muda de forma, alterando as características originais do parapente.
O Selete funciona como um casulo e é onde o atleta fica durante o vôo. É importante que seja ajustada a cada piloto, pois seu conforto depende disso.
Para casos de emergência utiliza-se um para-quedas. Ele está acoplado o Selete e só é utilizado caso aconteça algo de muito grave.
Os melhores locais para a prática do parapente são as regiões com climas secos, pois o atleta poderá ter um maior aproveitamento das correntes de ar. As regiões litorâneas com montanhas ao redor também oferecem excelentes condições.
O estado de Minas Gerais, juntamente com São Paulo e Rio de Janeiro são os lugares que apresentam o maior desenvolvimento do esporte. A Serra da Mantiqueira, com sua variedade de picos é o local ideal para todo aventureiro.
Senator Ed Markey, D-Mass, asks NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine a question during a Subcommittee on Space, Science, and Competitiveness hearing titled, "Global Space Race: Ensuring the United States Remains the Leader in Space," Wednesday, September 26, 2018 at the Russell Senate Office Building in Washington. Photo Credit: (NASA/Aubrey Gemignani)
1992 (part 1 of 3)
January 4-5, 1992
It was announced that five competitive soccer players for the Kanata City Soccer Club were invited by the Ontario Soccer League to attend tryouts for an under-14 program. The players were: Michael Kiss, Anson Brewster, Gordon MacDonald, Tim Locket-Smith, and Joe Leafloor. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Jan. 14, 1992:20.
January 4-5, 1992
Members of the Glen Cairn Skating Club won five medals in Cornwall. They were Melissa McKie, Natalie Cholette, Kara Koski, Marnie Dunlevie, and Ashley Kilburn. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Jan. 14, 1992:23.
January 6, 1992
The City of Kanata brought legal representation to an Ontario Municipal Board hearing, despite a request to the City not to have a lawyer present. The issue discussed was the rezoning of 485 Eagleson Road. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Jan. 7, 1992:1.
January 7, 1992
Due to holiday postal delays, Kanata City Council announced that it would extend its deadline for applications to the newly formed Public Participation Task Force. Kanata Kourier-Standard Jan. 7, 1992:2.
January 8, 1992
Kevin Gibeau, a 19-year-old Ottawa man, was admitted to the Ottawa General Hospital with the potentially fatal meningococcal disease. The teen was believed to have attended a New Year's Eve party at a house in Kanata. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Jan. 14, 1992:1.
January 11, 1992
Mayor Merle Nicholds announced that the city's chief administrative officer, Brian Switzer, "acted prematurely" when he informed three city employees they no longer had jobs. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Jan. 14, 1992:1.
January 14, 1992
It was announced that beginning January 20, Maclean Hunter Cable TV would begin carrying a bi-monthly, live phone-in show about Kanata issues. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Jan. 14, 1992:16.
January 16, 1992
Plans were announced for a new $2.5 million bowling facility and billiards centre on Hines Road. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Jan. 21, 1992:8.
January 21, 1992
It was announced that the Ottawa-Carleton Heath department had begun a program to inoculate 170,000 children and teenagers in the region against meningococcal disease. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Jan. 21, 1992:1.
January 21, 1992
The Kanata Standard reported that the Carleton Board of Education was expected to introduce its own Education Development Charges -- a form of lot levy -- of $1,206. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Jan. 21, 1992:1.
January 21, 1992
It was announced that the Reform Party had organized in Kanata. The president of the Lanark-Carleton Reform was Rick Blanchard. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Jan. 21, 1992:5.
January 21, 1992
Kanata City Council decided to ask the Ontario Municipal Board if the Ottawa Exhibition moving to a West Carleton site adjacent to the Ottawa Palladium would be in contravention of its 1991 ruling on the Palladium lands. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Jan. 28, 1992:3.
January 28, 1992
It was reported that welfare cases in Kanata had tripled in the past year to 375 due to the recession. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Jan. 28, 1992:1.
January 28, 1992
The Kanata Standard reported that Stephanie Stewart of Kanata had just completed the first leg of a 12-month tour with Cast B in Up With People, an independent, non-profit, education and cultural organization. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Jan. 28, 1992:13.
February 5, 1992
The Kanata Beaverbrook Community Association awarded Woman of the Year to Clara Rowe, Man of the Year to Peter Murphy, and Couple of the Year to Jennifer and David McKeen. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Feb. 25, 1992:31.
February 9, 1992
Three Kanata athletes brought home medals from the 10th Annual Winterlude Triathlon. Erik Allen placed first in the men’s 14-17 age category, John Bennett placed first in the men’s 18-29 age category, and Keith Dustin placed second in the men’s 30-34 age category. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Feb. 25, 1992:32.
February 9, 1992
Hazeldean District Girl Guides honoured their outgoing commissioner, Dawn Carrick, who had been commissioner since 1987. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 13, 1992:13.
February 11, 1992
It was reported the proposed changes to the membership of the Youth Advisory Committee would incorporate more of the youth of Kanata. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Feb. 11, 1992:1.
February 11, 1992
The Ontario Municipal Board announced that it had approved the construction of a controversial new co-operative apartment building in Bridlewood. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Feb. 11, 1992:1.
February 11, 1992
The Kanata Standard reported that two operators, Aubert Robitaille and Christine Cadieux, of a defunct Kanata property management firm were facing a total of 52 charges after a year-long Ontario Provincial Police investigation. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Feb. 11, 1992:5.
February 11, 1992
It was announced that the Kanata Chamber of Commerce had joined other local business organization to oppose the proposed changes to Ontario's labour laws announced by Ontario's Minister of Labour Bob Mackenzie. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Feb. 11, 1992:9.
February 15, 1992
Melissa McKie, 14, of Kanata, won a gold medal at the Eastern Ontario Section Area 5 West Inter-club figure skating competition and the right to represent the region at an Eastern Ontario Interclub Competition in Lindsay, Ontario. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 3, 1992:24.
February 18, 1992
The City of Kanata announced that it would purchase the outstanding first mortgage on the Kanata Recreation Complex for $2,850,000. The city had already invested $4,218,200 into the complex. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Feb. 18, 1992:1.
February 18, 1992
It was announced that the Central Junior Hockey League had suspended Kanata Valley Laser’s coach and general manager Archie Mulligan for the remainder of the 1991-92 season. Mulligan was implicated in a post-game brawl February 6. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Feb. 18, 1992:1.
February 18, 1992
Bruce Firestone of Terrace confirmed that their 165 acres near the proposed Palladium arena in West Carleton was one of six sites the Central Canada Exhibition was considering for its agricultural fair. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Feb. 18, 1992:3.
February 18, 1992
It was announced that the Carleton Board of Education’s 1,300 secondary school teachers had rejected a one per cent wage hike and had threatened to walk out. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Feb. 18:6.
February 22-23, 1992
The Kanata Rhythmic Sportive Gymnastics Club qualified 10 of its athletes for the all-Ontario competition in rhythmic gymnastics. They were: Jennifer Sweezie, Laura Donovan, Sharon Fryer, Jessica Sweezie, Kelly Carr, Stephanie Wall, Danielle Robitaille, Kristy Lalonde, Erin Sutherland, and Jocelyn MacGregor. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 20, 1992:13.
February 25, 1992
The Kanata Standard reported that a $2 million budget problem may close the Kanata Physiotherapy Clinic. Kanata Kourier-Standard, Feb. 25, 1992:1.
February 27, 1992
Stephen Leafloor, 32, of Starlight Holographic Inc., was named as a recipient of a 1992 Ontario Minister’s Award for Outstanding Achievement. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 10, 1992:11.
February 29, 1992
It was reported that Mayor Merle Nicholds had introduced a motion to cut $100,000 from the Kanata OPP’s $3,006,389 budget submission. Kanata Standard, March 10, 1992:7.
February 29, 1992
Kathy Gregoire, 14, and Thomas Chapman, 13, both from Holy Trinity, scored 14 out of 25 and 23 out of 25 respectively at the Knights of Columbus basketball Free Throw regional championships. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 6, 1992:15.
March 1, 1992
The newly formed Canadians Together group, co-chaired by Kanata’s Peter Fraser, held its first open house at the Carleton Place Library. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 6, 1992:5.
March 3, 1992
It was announced that the Carleton Board of Education had passed a motion to approve a new method of raising money to construct schools. The plan was called Education Development Charges, which had a $1,206 lot levy. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 3, 1992:1.
March 3, 1992
It was announced that the City of Kanata had $4.6 million in tax arrears in 1991. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 3, 1992:3.
March 3, 1992
It was announced that Kanata City Council had approved $30,000 from development charge revenues to be used to construct the Fish Habitat Compensation Works within the Walter Baker Park lands. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 3, 1992:5.
March 3, 1992
The Kanata Standard reported that regional council had resolved the issue of the future of Scissons Road in Bridlewood, ruling to keep the road open without restrictions. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 3, 1992:6.
March 3, 1992
It was announced that the Central Junior Hockey League had upheld a 60-day suspension and $700 fine against Kanata Valley Lasers coach and general manager Archie Mulligan. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 3, 1992:21.
March 3, 1992
Glen Cairn residents went to Kanata City Council regarding their opposition to a group home that had been proposed for 135 Abbeyhill Road. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 6, 1992:2.
March 6, 1992
It was announced that Kanata chief librarian Linda Sherlow Lowden had requested and received approval for a $530,000 budget, a $53,000 increase over 1991. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 6, 1992:1.
March 6, 1992
It was announced that creative collaborators at Kanata North Business Park had pooled their talent to win the Ontario Marketing Award general brochures’ category. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 6, 1992:6.
March 10, 1992
It was reported that Mayor Merle Nicholds had written to the Ontario Health Minister Frances Lankin warning that the community was “in shock” over the April 3 planned closure of the Queensway-Carleton Hospital’s physiotherapy clinic on Kakulu Road. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 10, 1992:1.
March 10, 1992
Regional councillor Alex Munter brought forward the motion to install condom-dispensing machines in Kanata’s municipal buildings. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 13, 1992:1.
March 10, 1992
Funeral services were held for Brent Armstrong, 26, of Kanata, who was killed in a West Quebec snowmobile accident. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 13, 1992:6.
March 13, 1992
About 175 Glen Cairn residents gathered to discuss the proposed group home at 135 Abbeyhill Road for young offenders. Many said that they were vehemently opposed and were worried about decreased property values. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 13, 1992:1.
March 13, 1992
It was announced that the Carleton Board of Education teachers had voted 87 per cent to strike. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 13, 1992:3.
March 13, 1992
Mayor Merle Nicholds told regional councillors that she supported the “park and ride” concept and would push its construction in Kanata. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 13, 1992:3.
March 17, 1992
It was announced that Kanata City Council had passed the 1992 budget with a tax increase of 4.6 per cent. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 17, 1992:1.
March 17, 1992
It was announced that the Katimavik Elementary School Junior Concert Band, directed by Kimberley Comrie, took the gold in Level 1 of the Capital Region Music Festival. The school’s Senior Concert Band won the Level 2 gold. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 17, 1992:7.
March 17, 1992
It was announced that three skaters from the March Kanata Skating Club had won medals at the Eastern Ontario Section Interclub Competition. Matthew Till placed second in the preliminary men’s event, Graham Eaves won a silver medal in the juvenile men’s event, and Jennifer Mason and Matthew Till paired up to win the gold medal in the preliminary dance category. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 17, 1992:23.
March 19, 1992
A fluke incident on a power line in the western section of Glen Cairn resulted in thousands of dollars of damage and indirectly caused a kitchen fire at 61 Foxleigh Cres. in Bridlewood. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 24, 1992:1.
March 20, 1992
It was announced that Judith Arnold of Nepean would travel across the country by horseback from St. John’s, Newfoundland to Victoria, B.C., ending her trek December 3. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 20, 1992:1.
March 20, 1992
The Kanata Standard reported that the Insurance Bureau of Canada had launched a public awareness campaign in support of a graduated licensing program for new drivers in Ontario. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 20, 1992:5.
March 20, 1992
It was announced that Glen Emery, of Glen Cairn, had won the Silver Postmark award for community work. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 20, 1992:9.
March 20-22, 1992
Valerie Morelli of the Kanata Rhythmic Sportive Gymnastics Club earned a gold medal at the Ontario elite rhythmic gymnastics competition. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 14, 1992:28.
March 24, 1992
Seven letters to the Editor appeared in the Kourier-Standard about Kanata’s condom-machine controversy. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 24, 1992:5.
March 24, 1992
It was announced that Judy Simser of Kanata had received the Order of Ontario for her work with deaf children. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 24, 1992:14.
March 24, 1992
Kanata Council approved the spot spraying of liquid herbicides. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 27, 1992:1.
March 27, 1992
Kanata City Council passed a bylaw that required all group homes to be registered, before establishing in the city. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 27, 1992:1.
March 27, 1992
The Carleton Board of Education announced that thirty high school teachers could be among 75 predicted layoffs at the board if a $302 million budget was approved in April. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 27, 1992:3.
March 29, 1992
Kanata hosted the Ronald McDonald hockey tournament. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 3, 1992:11.
March 31, 1992
Linda Makela, secretary of the Eagleson Co-operative Homes Inc., said that she was upset that the city of Kanata may have a final decision on where the housing co-op could and could not do business. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 31, 1992:3.
March 31, 1992
Three Kanata students received placement at the National Composition Contest for Music for Young Children: Jessica Havelock, 5, Jeremy Hoos, 6, and Andrew Forbes, 8. Kanata Kourier-Standard, March 31, 1992:10.
April 2, 1992
Terrace Investments Ltd. explained the proposed Highway 417 interchange and the traffic and parking management plan study for the Palladium. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 7, 1992:5.
April 2, 1992
High school teachers in the Carleton Board of Education walked out. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 14, 1992:17.
April 3, 1992
It was announced that the City’s lawyer, Tom Barber, had informed both the Queensway-Carleton Hospital and the Ontario Health Ministry that the city would seek an injunction to prevent the closure of the Kanata Physiotherapy Clinic until a new operator could be found. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 3, 1992:1.
April 3, 1992
It was announced that the federal government had denied to the U.S. government that the Kanata-based Instantel Inc. was receiving government subsidies to produce lower-priced seismographs. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 3, 1992:5.
April 3, 1992
It was announced that two Kanata soccer players, Joe Leafloor, 12, and Gordon MacDonald, 13, had survived the final cuts in the Provincial under-14 program. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 3, 1992:11.
April 6, 1992
Four young Kanata women used signs and visual aids to urge passing motorists to show their support against chemical spraying of 2,4-D. Erin Keech, 19, Sara Kemp, 18, Natalie Drolet, 15, and Carolyn Saunders, 15, held signs on Eagleson Road and the Queensway. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 10, 1992:1.
April 7, 1992
It was reported that Queensway-Carleton Hospital officials had announced that they would grant a “temporary stay” of the physiotherapy clinic closure until another operator could be found. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 7, 1992:1.
April 10, 1992
Carleton MPP Norm Sterling announced that he wanted to legislate teachers back to work. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 10, 1992:3.
April 11-12, 1992
Ryan Michael Lim, 12, finished first in the Tyro national category (13-14 year olds) at the Elite Ontario Gymnastics Championships held in Collingwood. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 17, 1992:16.
April 14, 1992
It was announced that the Kanata Vikings hockey team had been crowned the “A” House League Pee Wee Playoff champions. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 14, 1992:29.
April 14, 1992
The City of Kanata voted to become the first municipality in Ontario to install condom machines in its recreational facilities. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 17, 1992:1.
April 16, 1992
It was announced that there were no new infrastructures planned for in Kanata’s capital budget for 1992. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 21, 1992:3.
April 16, 1992
Bridlewood Councillor Eva James told Kanata City Council that Bridlewood was tired of waiting for park funding. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 21, 1992:1.
April 17, 1992
It was announced that the senior cross-country ski team at Earl of March Secondary School won the Ontario Federation of Schools Athletic Association title. Members included: Erik Allen, 17, Stephen Daniels, 18, Ian Skinner, 18, and Stephen Hui, 17. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 7, 1992:26.
April 17, 1992
It was announced that the Kanata Lasers won a spot in the regional Centennial Cup playoffs in Thunder Bay. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 17, 1992:1.
April 19-25, 1992
It was Organ Donor Awareness Week. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 21, 1992:17.
April 21, 1992
It was reported that Kanata’s bylaws had come under fire for being eccentric. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 21, 1992:3.
April 21, 1992
Kanata City Council shaved $70,000 from the contract services budget, which was expected to affect the city’s grass cutting force. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 24, 1992:1.
April 24, 1992
It was reported that one Ontario Provincial Police sergeant’s position and officers’ overtime costs would be cut after the City of Kanata cut $100,000 from the Kanata OPP’s 1992 budget. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 24, 1992:1.
April 28, 1992
The Kourier-Standard reported that the City of Kanata was buying the Kanata Recreational Complex. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 28, 1992:1.
April 28, 1992
A group of Beaverbrook residents announced that they had banded together to help establish affordable housing at Leacock Gardens by planning to build a 48-unit apartment building. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 28, 1992:1.
April 28, 1992
It was announced that school uniforms were being discussed at the Carleton Roman Catholic School Board. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 28, 1992:3.
April 28, 1992
The Kourier-Standard reported that for the second year in a row, Loblaws in the Kanata Town Centre had beaten over 70 stores in Ontario to win the Store of the Year award for superior customer service. Kanata Kourier-Standard, April 28, 1992:7.
-10" x 6.5" x 15"
-Heavy-duty dobby material
-Large main compartment
-Water-resistant rubberized bottom
-Front zippered pocket with organizer
-Ventilated side pockets
-Wet pocket
-Anatomically-shaped shoulder straps
-Media pocket
-Cell phone and goggle pouch
-Front webbing for towel
-15"H x 10"W x 6.5"D
Informal meeting of competitiveness ministers (internal market and industry) on 16 July 2018 - Family photo. Mic Hirschbrich, Raúl Blanco, Apostolos Makrykostas, Rastislav Chovanec, Ulrich Schuh, Maarten Camps, Vladimir Bärtl, Markus Beyrer, László Palkovics, Carl Rosén, Søren Gaard, Tom Theves, Petri Peltonen (third row, from the left to the right), Thomas Bründl, Carsten Pillath, Virginijus Sinkevičius, Christian Cardona, Blake Bower, Zdravko Počivalšek, Darko Horvat, Andrea Cioffi, Christian Lamouline, Marcin Ociepa, Karl-Heinz Lambertz, Zaiga Liepina, Pascal Faure, Constantinos Karageorgis, Walter Haffner (second row, from the left to the right), Sabine Herlitschka, Milena Blagoeva Angelova, Pat Breen, Heinz Hetmeier, Ulrike Rabmer-Koller, Kristi Talving, Dănuţ Andruşcă, Andrus Ansip, Margarete Schramböck, Elżbieta Bieńkowska, Kalin Tomov and Paulo Alexandre dos Santos Ferreira (first row, from the left to the right). Copyright BKA/Andy Wenzel