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What to do when beavers threaten your conservation efforts?
Western North Carolina’s Kanuga Conference Center is home to a Southern Appalachian Mountain bog - one of North America’s rarest habitats. Bogs often home to rare plants and animals, provide important habitat for migratory birds and game species, improve water quality by filtering sediment and contaminants, and store floodwaters which helps decrease downstream flooding. They’re places we very much want to conserve.
Kanuga’s bog has seen the recent arrival of beavers. On one hand, they’re cutting down shrubs, which is a positive step as it allows more sunlight to fall on the plants managers want to thrive. On the other hand, their dams are making water levels so high they’re turning the bogs into ponds – eliminating habitat for the plants and animals that need the bog to live.
A solution? Install pond levelers –pipes through the beaver dams that help drain the pooled water down to a desired level and minimize the ability of beavers to detect stream flow – tricking them into thinking their dams are intact.
Recently staff from Kanuga Conferences, Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy the N.C. Natural Heritage Program, The Nature Conservancy, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service joined a team of Haywood Community College students to install two pond levelers at the Kanuga Bog.
kitchen Island/table. Built primarily with old growth hemlock barn siding and beams from western NY. The undercarriage was also built with Douglas Fir bleacher boards from LeMoyne College's gymnasium and yellow pine door casings salvaged ffrom a Buffalo area house. Even the figure 8s holding the top down are salvaged from an old table. The top is held together like a barn door with fasteners only.... the screws and leveler feet (and a tad bit of glue for the corners) and varnish are the only new materials. light sandings and varnish with tedious attention to detail, as barn wood is snaggy, and it is a usable and washable but rustic piece.
Shot on location as part of the photowalk series in Friedrichshafen, Germany. Post-processing done in Capture One 20.
Camera: Contax 645
Back: Phase One P45+
Head: Arca-Swiss Core Leveler 75
Tripod: Gitzo GT3532LS
What to do when beavers threaten your conservation efforts?
Western North Carolina’s Kanuga Conference Center is home to a Southern Appalachian Mountain bog - one of North America’s rarest habitats. Bogs often home to rare plants and animals, provide important habitat for migratory birds and game species, improve water quality by filtering sediment and contaminants, and store floodwaters which helps decrease downstream flooding. They’re places we very much want to conserve.
Kanuga’s bog has seen the recent arrival of beavers. On one hand, they’re cutting down shrubs, which is a positive step as it allows more sunlight to fall on the plants managers want to thrive. On the other hand, their dams are making water levels so high they’re turning the bogs into ponds – eliminating habitat for the plants and animals that need the bog to live.
A solution? Install pond levelers –pipes through the beaver dams that help drain the pooled water down to a desired level and minimize the ability of beavers to detect stream flow – tricking them into thinking their dams are intact.
Recently staff from Kanuga Conferences, Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy the N.C. Natural Heritage Program, The Nature Conservancy, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service joined a team of Haywood Community College students to install two pond levelers at the Kanuga Bog.
Greetings from Luminous Soul Attraction Agency,
More to Mauritius: adventure activities await
Stunning beaches, diverse culture and rich cuisine – much is made of this nation’s sedate attractions. And for good reason – they are worth a trip in their own right. But this mountainous island, which bursts dramatically from the Indian Ocean, is also fecund with some exciting activities. Here are some to enjoy.
Climbing Le Morne Brabant: the ultimate high
Standing on the sublime beaches of Le Morne Peninsula in Mauritius’ far southwest, looking out over the peaceful azure waters to waves crashing on the reef beyond, you’ll be hard pressed to imagine anything more beautiful. Yet, after a couple of hours’ of hiking up the hulking mass of Le Morne Brabant mountain, which towers dramatically over the peninsula, you won’t have to imagine any longer – the views from its slopes are truly astounding.
The trail, which snakes up the back side of the massive monolith, starts with gentle paths through grasslands and indigenous forest before getting into some steep sections on rocky slopes – occasional ropes and advice from the guides help ease your progression up and down the latter. If you have limited mobility you can still take in some incredible views from the halfway point.
The first vistas available while climbing are actually behind you – turn around and you’ll get some amazing views north up the island’s west coast. Further on you start to catch glimpses of the gorgeous lagoon on the south side of the peninsula.
The high point of the hike is at 500m elevation, where you’ll look down over vast stretches of coastline, and see the kaleidoscopic collision of blue hues between the encircling reef and beaches.
Here, you’ll also find a large cross, which is dedicated to a group of escaped slaves who – according to legend – threw themselves to their death from the mountain in the early 19th century when fearing recapture. According to the story, the troop of soldiers coming up the mountain to reach them were simply there to tell them that slavery had been abolished and that freedom was theirs. The mountain thus got its name, which means Mournful One. Le Morne Brabant is deeply significant to island culture, and the history of it was the reason for it becoming a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2008.
Make it happen: Yanature is the only operator who has permission to bring visitors up the mountain. The three- to four-hour trips operate Monday to Saturday mornings on demand, departing at 6am between 1 November and 31 March and at 7am between 1 April and 31 October. Afternoon trips are possible year round on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Electric cycles: mountain biking with a boost
The hushed, hilly hamlet of Chamarel in southwest Mauritius has long been known on the island for its chilled vibe, superlative rum and exceptional food scene, but it’s now also becoming known for a novel new adventure: electric mountain biking.
A local company has imported a couple of dozen of the battery boosted bikes, and offer a rewarding tour in and around the area.
Far from giving you a free ride, however, the power system is designed to just give you a little help when you need it – some pedaling is still required! The idea is that the electric mountain bikes are a great leveler, allowing people of all fitness levels to cycle together. The fit can try to tackle the steep hills without calling on the battery, though be warned – thanks to the battery pack and motor, the bicycles weigh in at 23kg.
After some Mauritian coffee, the tour first takes the Chamarel Estate where you may spot Java deer – you will also visit the rum distillery. From there it's to one of the island's most beautiful sights, the Chamarel Waterfall, an incredible single-drop waterfall that plunges almost 100m into a beautiful ravine. Next is the Terres de Sept Couleurs (the Seven Coloured Earths), a unique rusting landscape of heaving hills surrounded by lush forests and a group of Aldabra tortoises. For lunch you'll cycle down to the coast to enjoy a meal in the fishing village of Baie du Cap. From there the route follows some sandy tracks through historical sites and past some of the stunning plantation houses from years gone by. Before finishing at Bel Ombre Sugar Estate, the tour takes in the 19th-century colonial mansion of Château Bel Ombre.
Make it happen: Electro-bike Discovery (electrobikemauritius.com) run the full day (approximately six hours) Chamarel tour most days, starting at 8.30am. Half-day tours are also available.
Seakarting: effortless aquatic adrenaline
In Grand Rivière Noire it’s now possible to rent a seakart to tour Mauritius’ mesmerising west coast from atop the Indian Ocean. What exactly is a seakart? Part jet-ski, part RIB (rigid-inflatable boat), it is a pint-sized two-person 100hp jet boat that quickly induces grins, giggles and bursts of laughter with each successive pull of the flappy paddle throttle on the steering wheel. When not blasting across the waves, look east to the staggering summit of Le Rampart, one of the island’s most dramatic peaks.
Make it happen: Fun Adventure (fun-adventure.mu) offer seakart tours ranging from one hour to a full day.
Helicopter tour: the big picture
If you’d like to reach the heights of Mauritius without strapping on your hiking boots, take to the skies on a short helicopter tour. Pilots cruise low over the fringes of the island’s reef, allowing you to look straight down through the clear waters to coral formations, before gaining altitude and soaring into the mountains. One of the most inspiring sights is coming face to face with the summit of Pieter Both Mountain – it’s topped by a massive balanced rock that resembles a human head.
Make it happen: Air Mauritius (airmauritius.com) operate reasonably priced scenic flights on demand. Depending on your budget you have a range of itineraries to choose from, which vary in length from 15 minutes to an hour.
Kite surfing: the perfect playground
Expert kite surfers the world over are well aware that the big surf and steady winds off the reef at Le Morne Peninsula make it one of the best spots on the planet to enjoy their sport. However, the sheltered shallow lagoon south of the peninsula is also arguably the best place for beginners to learn. And as experts abound, there is no shortage of top-notch instructors.
Make it happen: Yoaneye Kite Centre, Son of Kite and ION Club all offer lessons to kitesurfers of every level. The latter also rents equipment to those who already know the tricks of the trade.
Matt Phillips travelled to Mauritius with Tourism Mauritius (tourism-mauritius.mu). With thanks to Lux* Le Morne (luxresorts.com) and Angsana Balaclava (angsana.com). Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.
Mauritius is a beautiful place for awesome holidays!
Adjustable leg leveler makes leveling a snap. Sits flush on surfaces and will not slip. 50mm diameter shown, also available in 80mm for those who normally set up on grass or loose aggregate.
3'x8' dining table made from reclaimed basketball court flooring.
We reclaim gymnasium flooring. Usually 5/4 or 4/4 rock maple. We get 20-30,000 sq ft at a time. Apparantly they must be replaced approx. every 30-50 years because they lose springiness. This material goes in the landfill at approx. $10-15k per gymnasium. Much of it is sold in large lots to be reused as flooring but we sell smaller pieces and make furniture from it.
This piece had graphics still on it and I used the same material as edging, making the graphics fall over the edges. The bottom had 2 inch pine sleepers holding it together. I replaced them with 3/4" plywood (also reclaimed from old shelving) and removed the sleepers. With maple floor scraps I built some low-profile stiffeners and blocks to attach the edging to. The edging met at tenoned corners. the whole thing was sanded and varnished with water-based satin polyurethane. finishing over the old floor varnish proved to be a challenge. many coats and sanding down to 600 grit gave it a nice and sturdy finish. Care was taken to preserve the graphics and natural patina as much as possible. If completley sanded the maple is pale and takes years of sun exposure to bring back the schoolhouse yellow everyone is familiar with. The edging was cut from the same material and is lighter...although the contrast is kind of pretty.
The legs came from a 1950s school conference table. they were sanded, primed and painted with gloss white enamel (previously battleship gray). The leveler feet were replaced with new ones. One leveler foot broke off, so I drilled and tapped a new hole slightly off from the original.
It's now the showpiece of this young couple's renovated dining room. Hopefully this year Covid will be tamed and I can see it decked out for a big Thanksgiving dinner.
L'Anima - a gourmet Italian restaurant in the City of London, near Finnsbury Square and Liverpool Street.
Its passionate Chef Francesco is half-Calabrian and half Sicilian who keeps a tight grip on the proceedings of his kitchen ran by 40 staff - all Italians, except for a delightful German lady whose presence adds Anglo-Saxon elegance to an otherwise very Mediterranean environment: don't get me wrong L'Anima is no run-of-the-mill trattoria decorated with lamps made of Chianti bottles.
The interior decoration is restrained and minimalist that exudes refinement without ostentation.
Its kitchen, by far larger than the space of the bar and restaurant is a model of well-equipped modernity with no money spared for the best utensils: they bake their own bread on the premises.
And the food? What kind of food is it?
Francesco is uncompromising about his traditional family cuisine, taught by his 'mamma' and his nonna: he called it "traditional Italian family cuisine with a twist!" - that is HIS version of Southern Italy - Calabrese, Puglian, Sicilian with occasional concessions to Tuscany, Veneto or Roman...
The monthly Saturday cookery course is a mixture of demonstration, hands-on cooking, degustation, competition with the prize of a (black) truffle the size of a chicken egg and a three course meal for twenty with white wine from Aosta red wine from the the volcanic slopes of the Etna and a red desert wine.
Ah I forgot the "Italian breakfast" of coffee, bread, butter and four jams. Said an American lady registered for the course; "Francesco next time you do not give us this bullshit you give us instead coffee with a shot of grappa, like the Italian working classes have for breakfast".
Well, grappa is a great leveler, so we drank to that at the end of the lunch.
Francesco-s personality is larger than life: his staff are grateful and are kept on the straight and narrow; i asked him if he shouted in the kitchen he gave an unapologetic "yes". But do you swear? i asked looking at his staff whose faces were sheepish - a mixture of a smirk with an embarrasment - well this WAS my answer - I can't remember what he said...
Francesco's cuisine is prodigal: does he look forward to having a star in the Michelin? He denies it. He says that he is true to himself, regardless. He has somewhere posted a list of the 100 best restaurants in Britain: at the top of the list there is this rural eatery on the Thames Valley, somewhere, which was shut for several weeks by the food inspectors for having poisoned its hosts. L'Anima was amongst the top 20 on this list, more precisely at number 17. Maybe it should start poisoning its clients to gain the first place: "i do not make concession to my clients. Once one gets famous one could do what one likes.". Francesco is a likeable and diplomatic presence, but as most talented people go, he must be difficult to work for. But his staff is glad to work for l"Anima which they helped up the slippery ladder of the gourmet restaurants in London.
Thank you Francesco!
Thank you too to the friendly presence of Francesco's American financial backers and great gourmet connoisseurs who added colour, spontaneity and warmth to our course. (not forgetting the young and distinguished Oxonian-Finno_Brits who stimulated the conversation).
The red lines are the trails as shown on the 1912 USGS topo map.
The green lines are from later USGS quads.
Approaching Keaku Cave, I've corrected the lateral error as close as I can estimate.
Later the route shifted north, a shorter, leveler route and I suspect the Haleokunuu viewpoint was socked in about 90% of the time.They'd been much better off moving the trail further north, to the dangling red line approaching the bogs and following the dry divide. But I suspect they couldn't pry themselves away from the shelter of Keaku Cave.
What to do when beavers threaten your conservation efforts?
Western North Carolina’s Kanuga Conference Center is home to a Southern Appalachian Mountain bog - one of North America’s rarest habitats. Bogs often home to rare plants and animals, provide important habitat for migratory birds and game species, improve water quality by filtering sediment and contaminants, and store floodwaters which helps decrease downstream flooding. They’re places we very much want to conserve.
Kanuga’s bog has seen the recent arrival of beavers. On one hand, they’re cutting down shrubs, which is a positive step as it allows more sunlight to fall on the plants managers want to thrive. On the other hand, their dams are making water levels so high they’re turning the bogs into ponds – eliminating habitat for the plants and animals that need the bog to live.
A solution? Install pond levelers –pipes through the beaver dams that help drain the pooled water down to a desired level and minimize the ability of beavers to detect stream flow – tricking them into thinking their dams are intact.
Recently staff from Kanuga Conferences, Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy the N.C. Natural Heritage Program, The Nature Conservancy, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service joined a team of Haywood Community College students to install two pond levelers at the Kanuga Bog.
What to do when beavers threaten your conservation efforts?
Western North Carolina’s Kanuga Conference Center is home to a Southern Appalachian Mountain bog - one of North America’s rarest habitats. Bogs often home to rare plants and animals, provide important habitat for migratory birds and game species, improve water quality by filtering sediment and contaminants, and store floodwaters which helps decrease downstream flooding. They’re places we very much want to conserve.
Kanuga’s bog has seen the recent arrival of beavers. On one hand, they’re cutting down shrubs, which is a positive step as it allows more sunlight to fall on the plants managers want to thrive. On the other hand, their dams are making water levels so high they’re turning the bogs into ponds – eliminating habitat for the plants and animals that need the bog to live.
A solution? Install pond levelers –pipes through the beaver dams that help drain the pooled water down to a desired level and minimize the ability of beavers to detect stream flow – tricking them into thinking their dams are intact.
Recently staff from Kanuga Conferences, Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy the N.C. Natural Heritage Program, The Nature Conservancy, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service joined a team of Haywood Community College students to install two pond levelers at the Kanuga Bog.
Greetings from Luminous Soul Attraction Agency,
More to Mauritius: adventure activities await
Stunning beaches, diverse culture and rich cuisine – much is made of this nation’s sedate attractions. And for good reason – they are worth a trip in their own right. But this mountainous island, which bursts dramatically from the Indian Ocean, is also fecund with some exciting activities. Here are some to enjoy.
Climbing Le Morne Brabant: the ultimate high
Standing on the sublime beaches of Le Morne Peninsula in Mauritius’ far southwest, looking out over the peaceful azure waters to waves crashing on the reef beyond, you’ll be hard pressed to imagine anything more beautiful. Yet, after a couple of hours’ of hiking up the hulking mass of Le Morne Brabant mountain, which towers dramatically over the peninsula, you won’t have to imagine any longer – the views from its slopes are truly astounding.
The trail, which snakes up the back side of the massive monolith, starts with gentle paths through grasslands and indigenous forest before getting into some steep sections on rocky slopes – occasional ropes and advice from the guides help ease your progression up and down the latter. If you have limited mobility you can still take in some incredible views from the halfway point.
The first vistas available while climbing are actually behind you – turn around and you’ll get some amazing views north up the island’s west coast. Further on you start to catch glimpses of the gorgeous lagoon on the south side of the peninsula.
The high point of the hike is at 500m elevation, where you’ll look down over vast stretches of coastline, and see the kaleidoscopic collision of blue hues between the encircling reef and beaches.
Here, you’ll also find a large cross, which is dedicated to a group of escaped slaves who – according to legend – threw themselves to their death from the mountain in the early 19th century when fearing recapture. According to the story, the troop of soldiers coming up the mountain to reach them were simply there to tell them that slavery had been abolished and that freedom was theirs. The mountain thus got its name, which means Mournful One. Le Morne Brabant is deeply significant to island culture, and the history of it was the reason for it becoming a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2008.
Make it happen: Yanature is the only operator who has permission to bring visitors up the mountain. The three- to four-hour trips operate Monday to Saturday mornings on demand, departing at 6am between 1 November and 31 March and at 7am between 1 April and 31 October. Afternoon trips are possible year round on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Electric cycles: mountain biking with a boost
The hushed, hilly hamlet of Chamarel in southwest Mauritius has long been known on the island for its chilled vibe, superlative rum and exceptional food scene, but it’s now also becoming known for a novel new adventure: electric mountain biking.
A local company has imported a couple of dozen of the battery boosted bikes, and offer a rewarding tour in and around the area.
Far from giving you a free ride, however, the power system is designed to just give you a little help when you need it – some pedaling is still required! The idea is that the electric mountain bikes are a great leveler, allowing people of all fitness levels to cycle together. The fit can try to tackle the steep hills without calling on the battery, though be warned – thanks to the battery pack and motor, the bicycles weigh in at 23kg.
After some Mauritian coffee, the tour first takes the Chamarel Estate where you may spot Java deer – you will also visit the rum distillery. From there it's to one of the island's most beautiful sights, the Chamarel Waterfall, an incredible single-drop waterfall that plunges almost 100m into a beautiful ravine. Next is the Terres de Sept Couleurs (the Seven Coloured Earths), a unique rusting landscape of heaving hills surrounded by lush forests and a group of Aldabra tortoises. For lunch you'll cycle down to the coast to enjoy a meal in the fishing village of Baie du Cap. From there the route follows some sandy tracks through historical sites and past some of the stunning plantation houses from years gone by. Before finishing at Bel Ombre Sugar Estate, the tour takes in the 19th-century colonial mansion of Château Bel Ombre.
Make it happen: Electro-bike Discovery (electrobikemauritius.com) run the full day (approximately six hours) Chamarel tour most days, starting at 8.30am. Half-day tours are also available.
Seakarting: effortless aquatic adrenaline
In Grand Rivière Noire it’s now possible to rent a seakart to tour Mauritius’ mesmerising west coast from atop the Indian Ocean. What exactly is a seakart? Part jet-ski, part RIB (rigid-inflatable boat), it is a pint-sized two-person 100hp jet boat that quickly induces grins, giggles and bursts of laughter with each successive pull of the flappy paddle throttle on the steering wheel. When not blasting across the waves, look east to the staggering summit of Le Rampart, one of the island’s most dramatic peaks.
Make it happen: Fun Adventure (fun-adventure.mu) offer seakart tours ranging from one hour to a full day.
Helicopter tour: the big picture
If you’d like to reach the heights of Mauritius without strapping on your hiking boots, take to the skies on a short helicopter tour. Pilots cruise low over the fringes of the island’s reef, allowing you to look straight down through the clear waters to coral formations, before gaining altitude and soaring into the mountains. One of the most inspiring sights is coming face to face with the summit of Pieter Both Mountain – it’s topped by a massive balanced rock that resembles a human head.
Make it happen: Air Mauritius (airmauritius.com) operate reasonably priced scenic flights on demand. Depending on your budget you have a range of itineraries to choose from, which vary in length from 15 minutes to an hour.
Kite surfing: the perfect playground
Expert kite surfers the world over are well aware that the big surf and steady winds off the reef at Le Morne Peninsula make it one of the best spots on the planet to enjoy their sport. However, the sheltered shallow lagoon south of the peninsula is also arguably the best place for beginners to learn. And as experts abound, there is no shortage of top-notch instructors.
Make it happen: Yoaneye Kite Centre, Son of Kite and ION Club all offer lessons to kitesurfers of every level. The latter also rents equipment to those who already know the tricks of the trade.
Matt Phillips travelled to Mauritius with Tourism Mauritius (tourism-mauritius.mu). With thanks to Lux* Le Morne (luxresorts.com) and Angsana Balaclava (angsana.com). Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.
Mauritius is a beautiful place for awesome holidays!
Our brand new Little Red Wagon (LRW), now named Rose, sometimes called Rosie, occasionally Rosie the Riveted (groan!) and even La Rosa, depending upon my mood, set up in one of her very earliest campsites. This is her first season out, and our first season in more than a quarter-century not in a tent on the ground. Technically she’s an RV. A very tiny, very spartan RV. Not so technically, what she really is, is just a big tent in a box! Exactly what we wanted! It's hard to explain how exciting this is.
(If you are considering a Quicksilver, the forward pair of stabilizers (feet, legs, whatever) are optional, but we would definitely recommend ordering them, especially if you get an 8.1 with the queen bed (berth) at the "forward" end as shown. You will feel much more comfortable and secure! But be aware that the legs are stabilizers, not load levelers. If you need leveling, you'll need to carry some blocks (the easiest way).
In 1963, a Nimrod looked an awful lot like a Quicksilver does now. That makes me wonder if Scott Tuttle, founder of Livin' Lite and designer of the Quicksilver camped with his parents in a Nimrod when he was a kid.
L'Anima - a gourmet Italian restaurant in the City of London, near Finnsbury Square and Liverpool Street.
Its passionate Chef Francesco is half-Calabrian and half Sicilian who keeps a tight grip on the proceedings of his kitchen ran by 40 staff - all Italians, except for a delightful German lady whose presence adds Anglo-Saxon elegance to an otherwise very Mediterranean environment: don't get me wrong L'Anima is no run-of-the-mill trattoria decorated with lamps made of Chianti bottles.
The interior decoration is restrained and minimalist that exudes refinement without ostentation.
Its kitchen, by far larger than the space of the bar and restaurant is a model of well-equipped modernity with no money spared for the best utensils: they bake their own bread on the premises.
And the food? What kind of food is it?
Francesco is uncompromising about his traditional family cuisine, taught by his 'mamma' and his nonna: he called it "traditional Italian family cuisine with a twist!" - that is HIS version of Southern Italy - Calabrese, Puglian, Sicilian with occasional concessions to Tuscany, Veneto or Roman...
The monthly Saturday cookery course is a mixture of demonstration, hands-on cooking, degustation, competition with the prize of a (black) truffle the size of a chicken egg and a three course meal for twenty with white wine from Aosta red wine from the the volcanic slopes of the Etna and a red desert wine.
Ah I forgot the "Italian breakfast" of coffee, bread, butter and four jams. Said an American lady registered for the course; "Francesco next time you do not give us this bullshit you give us instead coffee with a shot of grappa, like the Italian working classes have for breakfast".
Well, grappa is a great leveler, so we drank to that at the end of the lunch.
Francesco-s personality is larger than life: his staff are grateful and are kept on the straight and narrow; i asked him if he shouted in the kitchen he gave an unapologetic "yes". But do you swear? i asked looking at his staff whose faces were sheepish - a mixture of a smirk with an embarrasment - well this WAS my answer - I can't remember what he said...
Francesco's cuisine is prodigal: does he look forward to having a star in the Michelin? He denies it. He says that he is true to himself, regardless. He has somewhere posted a list of the 100 best restaurants in Britain: at the top of the list there is this rural eatery on the Thames Valley, somewhere, which was shut for several weeks by the food inspectors for having poisoned its hosts. L'Anima was amongst the top 20 on this list, more precisely at number 17. Maybe it should start poisoning its clients to gain the first place: "i do not make concession to my clients. Once one gets famous one could do what one likes.". Francesco is a likeable and diplomatic presence, but as most talented people go, he must be difficult to work for. But his staff is glad to work for l"Anima which they helped up the slippery ladder of the gourmet restaurants in London.
Thank you Francesco!
Thank you too to the friendly presence of Francesco's American financial backers and great gourmet connoisseurs who added colour, spontaneity and warmth to our course. (not forgetting the young and distinguished Oxonian-Finno_Brits who stimulated the conversation).
What to do when beavers threaten your conservation efforts?
Western North Carolina’s Kanuga Conference Center is home to a Southern Appalachian Mountain bog - one of North America’s rarest habitats. Bogs often home to rare plants and animals, provide important habitat for migratory birds and game species, improve water quality by filtering sediment and contaminants, and store floodwaters which helps decrease downstream flooding. They’re places we very much want to conserve.
Kanuga’s bog has seen the recent arrival of beavers. On one hand, they’re cutting down shrubs, which is a positive step as it allows more sunlight to fall on the plants managers want to thrive. On the other hand, their dams are making water levels so high they’re turning the bogs into ponds – eliminating habitat for the plants and animals that need the bog to live.
A solution? Install pond levelers –pipes through the beaver dams that help drain the pooled water down to a desired level and minimize the ability of beavers to detect stream flow – tricking them into thinking their dams are intact.
Recently staff from Kanuga Conferences, Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy the N.C. Natural Heritage Program, The Nature Conservancy, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service joined a team of Haywood Community College students to install two pond levelers at the Kanuga Bog.
Greetings from Luminous Soul Attraction Agency,
More to Mauritius: adventure activities await
Stunning beaches, diverse culture and rich cuisine – much is made of this nation’s sedate attractions. And for good reason – they are worth a trip in their own right. But this mountainous island, which bursts dramatically from the Indian Ocean, is also fecund with some exciting activities. Here are some to enjoy.
Climbing Le Morne Brabant: the ultimate high
Standing on the sublime beaches of Le Morne Peninsula in Mauritius’ far southwest, looking out over the peaceful azure waters to waves crashing on the reef beyond, you’ll be hard pressed to imagine anything more beautiful. Yet, after a couple of hours’ of hiking up the hulking mass of Le Morne Brabant mountain, which towers dramatically over the peninsula, you won’t have to imagine any longer – the views from its slopes are truly astounding.
The trail, which snakes up the back side of the massive monolith, starts with gentle paths through grasslands and indigenous forest before getting into some steep sections on rocky slopes – occasional ropes and advice from the guides help ease your progression up and down the latter. If you have limited mobility you can still take in some incredible views from the halfway point.
The first vistas available while climbing are actually behind you – turn around and you’ll get some amazing views north up the island’s west coast. Further on you start to catch glimpses of the gorgeous lagoon on the south side of the peninsula.
The high point of the hike is at 500m elevation, where you’ll look down over vast stretches of coastline, and see the kaleidoscopic collision of blue hues between the encircling reef and beaches.
Here, you’ll also find a large cross, which is dedicated to a group of escaped slaves who – according to legend – threw themselves to their death from the mountain in the early 19th century when fearing recapture. According to the story, the troop of soldiers coming up the mountain to reach them were simply there to tell them that slavery had been abolished and that freedom was theirs. The mountain thus got its name, which means Mournful One. Le Morne Brabant is deeply significant to island culture, and the history of it was the reason for it becoming a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2008.
Make it happen: Yanature is the only operator who has permission to bring visitors up the mountain. The three- to four-hour trips operate Monday to Saturday mornings on demand, departing at 6am between 1 November and 31 March and at 7am between 1 April and 31 October. Afternoon trips are possible year round on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Electric cycles: mountain biking with a boost
The hushed, hilly hamlet of Chamarel in southwest Mauritius has long been known on the island for its chilled vibe, superlative rum and exceptional food scene, but it’s now also becoming known for a novel new adventure: electric mountain biking.
A local company has imported a couple of dozen of the battery boosted bikes, and offer a rewarding tour in and around the area.
Far from giving you a free ride, however, the power system is designed to just give you a little help when you need it – some pedaling is still required! The idea is that the electric mountain bikes are a great leveler, allowing people of all fitness levels to cycle together. The fit can try to tackle the steep hills without calling on the battery, though be warned – thanks to the battery pack and motor, the bicycles weigh in at 23kg.
After some Mauritian coffee, the tour first takes the Chamarel Estate where you may spot Java deer – you will also visit the rum distillery. From there it's to one of the island's most beautiful sights, the Chamarel Waterfall, an incredible single-drop waterfall that plunges almost 100m into a beautiful ravine. Next is the Terres de Sept Couleurs (the Seven Coloured Earths), a unique rusting landscape of heaving hills surrounded by lush forests and a group of Aldabra tortoises. For lunch you'll cycle down to the coast to enjoy a meal in the fishing village of Baie du Cap. From there the route follows some sandy tracks through historical sites and past some of the stunning plantation houses from years gone by. Before finishing at Bel Ombre Sugar Estate, the tour takes in the 19th-century colonial mansion of Château Bel Ombre.
Make it happen: Electro-bike Discovery (electrobikemauritius.com) run the full day (approximately six hours) Chamarel tour most days, starting at 8.30am. Half-day tours are also available.
Seakarting: effortless aquatic adrenaline
In Grand Rivière Noire it’s now possible to rent a seakart to tour Mauritius’ mesmerising west coast from atop the Indian Ocean. What exactly is a seakart? Part jet-ski, part RIB (rigid-inflatable boat), it is a pint-sized two-person 100hp jet boat that quickly induces grins, giggles and bursts of laughter with each successive pull of the flappy paddle throttle on the steering wheel. When not blasting across the waves, look east to the staggering summit of Le Rampart, one of the island’s most dramatic peaks.
Make it happen: Fun Adventure (fun-adventure.mu) offer seakart tours ranging from one hour to a full day.
Helicopter tour: the big picture
If you’d like to reach the heights of Mauritius without strapping on your hiking boots, take to the skies on a short helicopter tour. Pilots cruise low over the fringes of the island’s reef, allowing you to look straight down through the clear waters to coral formations, before gaining altitude and soaring into the mountains. One of the most inspiring sights is coming face to face with the summit of Pieter Both Mountain – it’s topped by a massive balanced rock that resembles a human head.
Make it happen: Air Mauritius (airmauritius.com) operate reasonably priced scenic flights on demand. Depending on your budget you have a range of itineraries to choose from, which vary in length from 15 minutes to an hour.
Kite surfing: the perfect playground
Expert kite surfers the world over are well aware that the big surf and steady winds off the reef at Le Morne Peninsula make it one of the best spots on the planet to enjoy their sport. However, the sheltered shallow lagoon south of the peninsula is also arguably the best place for beginners to learn. And as experts abound, there is no shortage of top-notch instructors.
Make it happen: Yoaneye Kite Centre, Son of Kite and ION Club all offer lessons to kitesurfers of every level. The latter also rents equipment to those who already know the tricks of the trade.
Matt Phillips travelled to Mauritius with Tourism Mauritius (tourism-mauritius.mu). With thanks to Lux* Le Morne (luxresorts.com) and Angsana Balaclava (angsana.com). Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.
Mauritius is a beautiful place for awesome holidays!
Greetings from Luminous Soul Attraction Agency,
More to Mauritius: adventure activities await
Stunning beaches, diverse culture and rich cuisine – much is made of this nation’s sedate attractions. And for good reason – they are worth a trip in their own right. But this mountainous island, which bursts dramatically from the Indian Ocean, is also fecund with some exciting activities. Here are some to enjoy.
Climbing Le Morne Brabant: the ultimate high
Standing on the sublime beaches of Le Morne Peninsula in Mauritius’ far southwest, looking out over the peaceful azure waters to waves crashing on the reef beyond, you’ll be hard pressed to imagine anything more beautiful. Yet, after a couple of hours’ of hiking up the hulking mass of Le Morne Brabant mountain, which towers dramatically over the peninsula, you won’t have to imagine any longer – the views from its slopes are truly astounding.
The trail, which snakes up the back side of the massive monolith, starts with gentle paths through grasslands and indigenous forest before getting into some steep sections on rocky slopes – occasional ropes and advice from the guides help ease your progression up and down the latter. If you have limited mobility you can still take in some incredible views from the halfway point.
The first vistas available while climbing are actually behind you – turn around and you’ll get some amazing views north up the island’s west coast. Further on you start to catch glimpses of the gorgeous lagoon on the south side of the peninsula.
The high point of the hike is at 500m elevation, where you’ll look down over vast stretches of coastline, and see the kaleidoscopic collision of blue hues between the encircling reef and beaches.
Here, you’ll also find a large cross, which is dedicated to a group of escaped slaves who – according to legend – threw themselves to their death from the mountain in the early 19th century when fearing recapture. According to the story, the troop of soldiers coming up the mountain to reach them were simply there to tell them that slavery had been abolished and that freedom was theirs. The mountain thus got its name, which means Mournful One. Le Morne Brabant is deeply significant to island culture, and the history of it was the reason for it becoming a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2008.
Make it happen: Yanature is the only operator who has permission to bring visitors up the mountain. The three- to four-hour trips operate Monday to Saturday mornings on demand, departing at 6am between 1 November and 31 March and at 7am between 1 April and 31 October. Afternoon trips are possible year round on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Electric cycles: mountain biking with a boost
The hushed, hilly hamlet of Chamarel in southwest Mauritius has long been known on the island for its chilled vibe, superlative rum and exceptional food scene, but it’s now also becoming known for a novel new adventure: electric mountain biking.
A local company has imported a couple of dozen of the battery boosted bikes, and offer a rewarding tour in and around the area.
Far from giving you a free ride, however, the power system is designed to just give you a little help when you need it – some pedaling is still required! The idea is that the electric mountain bikes are a great leveler, allowing people of all fitness levels to cycle together. The fit can try to tackle the steep hills without calling on the battery, though be warned – thanks to the battery pack and motor, the bicycles weigh in at 23kg.
After some Mauritian coffee, the tour first takes the Chamarel Estate where you may spot Java deer – you will also visit the rum distillery. From there it's to one of the island's most beautiful sights, the Chamarel Waterfall, an incredible single-drop waterfall that plunges almost 100m into a beautiful ravine. Next is the Terres de Sept Couleurs (the Seven Coloured Earths), a unique rusting landscape of heaving hills surrounded by lush forests and a group of Aldabra tortoises. For lunch you'll cycle down to the coast to enjoy a meal in the fishing village of Baie du Cap. From there the route follows some sandy tracks through historical sites and past some of the stunning plantation houses from years gone by. Before finishing at Bel Ombre Sugar Estate, the tour takes in the 19th-century colonial mansion of Château Bel Ombre.
Make it happen: Electro-bike Discovery (electrobikemauritius.com) run the full day (approximately six hours) Chamarel tour most days, starting at 8.30am. Half-day tours are also available.
Seakarting: effortless aquatic adrenaline
In Grand Rivière Noire it’s now possible to rent a seakart to tour Mauritius’ mesmerising west coast from atop the Indian Ocean. What exactly is a seakart? Part jet-ski, part RIB (rigid-inflatable boat), it is a pint-sized two-person 100hp jet boat that quickly induces grins, giggles and bursts of laughter with each successive pull of the flappy paddle throttle on the steering wheel. When not blasting across the waves, look east to the staggering summit of Le Rampart, one of the island’s most dramatic peaks.
Make it happen: Fun Adventure (fun-adventure.mu) offer seakart tours ranging from one hour to a full day.
Helicopter tour: the big picture
If you’d like to reach the heights of Mauritius without strapping on your hiking boots, take to the skies on a short helicopter tour. Pilots cruise low over the fringes of the island’s reef, allowing you to look straight down through the clear waters to coral formations, before gaining altitude and soaring into the mountains. One of the most inspiring sights is coming face to face with the summit of Pieter Both Mountain – it’s topped by a massive balanced rock that resembles a human head.
Make it happen: Air Mauritius (airmauritius.com) operate reasonably priced scenic flights on demand. Depending on your budget you have a range of itineraries to choose from, which vary in length from 15 minutes to an hour.
Kite surfing: the perfect playground
Expert kite surfers the world over are well aware that the big surf and steady winds off the reef at Le Morne Peninsula make it one of the best spots on the planet to enjoy their sport. However, the sheltered shallow lagoon south of the peninsula is also arguably the best place for beginners to learn. And as experts abound, there is no shortage of top-notch instructors.
Make it happen: Yoaneye Kite Centre, Son of Kite and ION Club all offer lessons to kitesurfers of every level. The latter also rents equipment to those who already know the tricks of the trade.
Matt Phillips travelled to Mauritius with Tourism Mauritius (tourism-mauritius.mu). With thanks to Lux* Le Morne (luxresorts.com) and Angsana Balaclava (angsana.com). Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.
Mauritius is a beautiful place for awesome holidays!
contato@renanfacciolo.com.br
Official Website: www.renanfacciolo.com.br
More Pics: www.facebook.com/renanfacciolofotografia
Copyright / Todos os direitos reservados - RENAN FACCIOLO © 2012
Made of 2 old doors from the storage rooms of an old apartment complex that is being renovated. The wood is knotty grade white pine.... wood used for purely utilitarian uses...like basement locker doors. They date to about 1890-1900. and have lots of character including pencil marks from the builders, probably old German immigrants. The glass is a desk top from a desk that no longer exists but somehow we acquired it. The bracing pieces are from a 2x6 hemlock joist from a carriage house that was demolished a few months back. Its wood is a little newer, probably 19-teens.
For this piece I wanted to clearly demonstrate the material's provenance from old buildings, and incorporate some of the architectural elements such as the tongue and groove panels, the bent-over nails and the simple "Z" shaped bracing.
The "front" side of the door can make a nice table top but I wanted to show off the "Z" side. In the store we had a piece of desktop glass. I trimmed the door to slightly less than the glass dimensions, and finished the top with water-based, satin polyurethane.
A second door was used to make the legs. That door was cut in half and the first and last boards removed. The edges of the removed boards were ripped flat (no tongue or groove) and butted at 90 degrees to the edge of the remaining door panel and glued and screwed together with trim screws. The whole thing was braced internally with some scraps of poplar I had in the shop. The ends (top and bottom) were cut at 10 degrees with a circular saw and leveler feet were added to the bottom brace.
The legs were attached to a block that was through the top with trim screws. The legs were attached to the block with heavy, 2.5 inch Spax screws underneath.
The braces were made from resawn hemlock and attached through the top with trim screws and to the legs and center structure with longer SPax.
Everything was lightly sanded and varnished and small silicone bumpers were attached to the top to prevent the glass from sliding.
Eventually here I will get some nice picture in a better setting than the shop.
Presenting the SMC Pentax-M 135mm f3.5 on a Pentax MX SLR (finally got a replacement "forward leveler cap" so now it is in service again).
Shot with the SMC Pentax-DA 35mm ltd macro on the K-7.
What to do when beavers threaten your conservation efforts?
Western North Carolina’s Kanuga Conference Center is home to a Southern Appalachian Mountain bog - one of North America’s rarest habitats. Bogs often home to rare plants and animals, provide important habitat for migratory birds and game species, improve water quality by filtering sediment and contaminants, and store floodwaters which helps decrease downstream flooding. They’re places we very much want to conserve.
Kanuga’s bog has seen the recent arrival of beavers. On one hand, they’re cutting down shrubs, which is a positive step as it allows more sunlight to fall on the plants managers want to thrive. On the other hand, their dams are making water levels so high they’re turning the bogs into ponds – eliminating habitat for the plants and animals that need the bog to live.
A solution? Install pond levelers –pipes through the beaver dams that help drain the pooled water down to a desired level and minimize the ability of beavers to detect stream flow – tricking them into thinking their dams are intact.
Recently staff from Kanuga Conferences, Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy the N.C. Natural Heritage Program, The Nature Conservancy, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service joined a team of Haywood Community College students to install two pond levelers at the Kanuga Bog.
L'Anima - a gourmet Italian restaurant in the City of London, near Finnsbury Square and Liverpool Street.
Its passionate Chef Francesco is half-Calabrian and half Sicilian who keeps a tight grip on the proceedings of his kitchen ran by 40 staff - all Italians, except for a delightful German lady whose presence adds Anglo-Saxon elegance to an otherwise very Mediterranean environment: don't get me wrong L'Anima is no run-of-the-mill trattoria decorated with lamps made of Chianti bottles.
The interior decoration is restrained and minimalist that exudes refinement without ostentation.
Its kitchen, by far larger than the space of the bar and restaurant is a model of well-equipped modernity with no money spared for the best utensils: they bake their own bread on the premises.
And the food? What kind of food is it?
Francesco is uncompromising about his traditional family cuisine, taught by his 'mamma' and his nonna: he called it "traditional Italian family cuisine with a twist!" - that is HIS version of Southern Italy - Calabrese, Puglian, Sicilian with occasional concessions to Tuscany, Veneto or Roman...
The monthly Saturday cookery course is a mixture of demonstration, hands-on cooking, degustation, competition with the prize of a (black) truffle the size of a chicken egg and a three course meal for twenty with white wine from Aosta red wine from the the volcanic slopes of the Etna and a red desert wine.
Ah I forgot the "Italian breakfast" of coffee, bread, butter and four jams. Said an American lady registered for the course; "Francesco next time you do not give us this bullshit you give us instead coffee with a shot of grappa, like the Italian working classes have for breakfast".
Well, grappa is a great leveler, so we drank to that at the end of the lunch.
Francesco-s personality is larger than life: his staff are grateful and are kept on the straight and narrow; i asked him if he shouted in the kitchen he gave an unapologetic "yes". But do you swear? i asked looking at his staff whose faces were sheepish - a mixture of a smirk with an embarrasment - well this WAS my answer - I can't remember what he said...
Francesco's cuisine is prodigal: does he look forward to having a star in the Michelin? He denies it. He says that he is true to himself, regardless. He has somewhere posted a list of the 100 best restaurants in Britain: at the top of the list there is this rural eatery on the Thames Valley, somewhere, which was shut for several weeks by the food inspectors for having poisoned its hosts. L'Anima was amongst the top 20 on this list, more precisely at number 17. Maybe it should start poisoning its clients to gain the first place: "i do not make concession to my clients. Once one gets famous one could do what one likes.". Francesco is a likeable and diplomatic presence, but as most talented people go, he must be difficult to work for. But his staff is glad to work for l"Anima which they helped up the slippery ladder of the gourmet restaurants in London.
Thank you Francesco!
Thank you too to the friendly presence of Francesco's American financial backers and great gourmet connoisseurs who added colour, spontaneity and warmth to our course. (not forgetting the young and distinguished Oxonian-Finno_Brits who stimulated the conversation).
Greetings from Luminous Soul Attraction Agency,
More to Mauritius: adventure activities await
Stunning beaches, diverse culture and rich cuisine – much is made of this nation’s sedate attractions. And for good reason – they are worth a trip in their own right. But this mountainous island, which bursts dramatically from the Indian Ocean, is also fecund with some exciting activities. Here are some to enjoy.
Climbing Le Morne Brabant: the ultimate high
Standing on the sublime beaches of Le Morne Peninsula in Mauritius’ far southwest, looking out over the peaceful azure waters to waves crashing on the reef beyond, you’ll be hard pressed to imagine anything more beautiful. Yet, after a couple of hours’ of hiking up the hulking mass of Le Morne Brabant mountain, which towers dramatically over the peninsula, you won’t have to imagine any longer – the views from its slopes are truly astounding.
The trail, which snakes up the back side of the massive monolith, starts with gentle paths through grasslands and indigenous forest before getting into some steep sections on rocky slopes – occasional ropes and advice from the guides help ease your progression up and down the latter. If you have limited mobility you can still take in some incredible views from the halfway point.
The first vistas available while climbing are actually behind you – turn around and you’ll get some amazing views north up the island’s west coast. Further on you start to catch glimpses of the gorgeous lagoon on the south side of the peninsula.
The high point of the hike is at 500m elevation, where you’ll look down over vast stretches of coastline, and see the kaleidoscopic collision of blue hues between the encircling reef and beaches.
Here, you’ll also find a large cross, which is dedicated to a group of escaped slaves who – according to legend – threw themselves to their death from the mountain in the early 19th century when fearing recapture. According to the story, the troop of soldiers coming up the mountain to reach them were simply there to tell them that slavery had been abolished and that freedom was theirs. The mountain thus got its name, which means Mournful One. Le Morne Brabant is deeply significant to island culture, and the history of it was the reason for it becoming a Unesco World Heritage Site in 2008.
Make it happen: Yanature is the only operator who has permission to bring visitors up the mountain. The three- to four-hour trips operate Monday to Saturday mornings on demand, departing at 6am between 1 November and 31 March and at 7am between 1 April and 31 October. Afternoon trips are possible year round on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Electric cycles: mountain biking with a boost
The hushed, hilly hamlet of Chamarel in southwest Mauritius has long been known on the island for its chilled vibe, superlative rum and exceptional food scene, but it’s now also becoming known for a novel new adventure: electric mountain biking.
A local company has imported a couple of dozen of the battery boosted bikes, and offer a rewarding tour in and around the area.
Far from giving you a free ride, however, the power system is designed to just give you a little help when you need it – some pedaling is still required! The idea is that the electric mountain bikes are a great leveler, allowing people of all fitness levels to cycle together. The fit can try to tackle the steep hills without calling on the battery, though be warned – thanks to the battery pack and motor, the bicycles weigh in at 23kg.
After some Mauritian coffee, the tour first takes the Chamarel Estate where you may spot Java deer – you will also visit the rum distillery. From there it's to one of the island's most beautiful sights, the Chamarel Waterfall, an incredible single-drop waterfall that plunges almost 100m into a beautiful ravine. Next is the Terres de Sept Couleurs (the Seven Coloured Earths), a unique rusting landscape of heaving hills surrounded by lush forests and a group of Aldabra tortoises. For lunch you'll cycle down to the coast to enjoy a meal in the fishing village of Baie du Cap. From there the route follows some sandy tracks through historical sites and past some of the stunning plantation houses from years gone by. Before finishing at Bel Ombre Sugar Estate, the tour takes in the 19th-century colonial mansion of Château Bel Ombre.
Make it happen: Electro-bike Discovery (electrobikemauritius.com) run the full day (approximately six hours) Chamarel tour most days, starting at 8.30am. Half-day tours are also available.
Seakarting: effortless aquatic adrenaline
In Grand Rivière Noire it’s now possible to rent a seakart to tour Mauritius’ mesmerising west coast from atop the Indian Ocean. What exactly is a seakart? Part jet-ski, part RIB (rigid-inflatable boat), it is a pint-sized two-person 100hp jet boat that quickly induces grins, giggles and bursts of laughter with each successive pull of the flappy paddle throttle on the steering wheel. When not blasting across the waves, look east to the staggering summit of Le Rampart, one of the island’s most dramatic peaks.
Make it happen: Fun Adventure (fun-adventure.mu) offer seakart tours ranging from one hour to a full day.
Helicopter tour: the big picture
If you’d like to reach the heights of Mauritius without strapping on your hiking boots, take to the skies on a short helicopter tour. Pilots cruise low over the fringes of the island’s reef, allowing you to look straight down through the clear waters to coral formations, before gaining altitude and soaring into the mountains. One of the most inspiring sights is coming face to face with the summit of Pieter Both Mountain – it’s topped by a massive balanced rock that resembles a human head.
Make it happen: Air Mauritius (airmauritius.com) operate reasonably priced scenic flights on demand. Depending on your budget you have a range of itineraries to choose from, which vary in length from 15 minutes to an hour.
Kite surfing: the perfect playground
Expert kite surfers the world over are well aware that the big surf and steady winds off the reef at Le Morne Peninsula make it one of the best spots on the planet to enjoy their sport. However, the sheltered shallow lagoon south of the peninsula is also arguably the best place for beginners to learn. And as experts abound, there is no shortage of top-notch instructors.
Make it happen: Yoaneye Kite Centre, Son of Kite and ION Club all offer lessons to kitesurfers of every level. The latter also rents equipment to those who already know the tricks of the trade.
Matt Phillips travelled to Mauritius with Tourism Mauritius (tourism-mauritius.mu). With thanks to Lux* Le Morne (luxresorts.com) and Angsana Balaclava (angsana.com). Lonely Planet contributors do not accept freebies in exchange for positive coverage.
Mauritius is a beautiful place for awesome holidays!
I created this Yup'ik shaman from Lake Superior coastlines, trees from Missouri, and a bluff from the coast. While Yup'ik shaman are native to Alaska, this one knows no boundaries.....
The Deepest Dream
The deepest dream is of mad governors,
Down, down we feel it, till the very crust
Of the world cracks, and where there was no dust,
Atoms of ruin rise. Confusion stirs,
And fear; and all our thoughts--dark scavengers--
Feed on the center's refuse. Hope is thrust
Like wind away, and love sinks into lust
For merest safety, meanest of levelers.
And then we wake. Or do we? Sleep endures
More than the morning can, when shadows lie
Sharper than mountains, and the cleft is real
Between us and our kings. What sun assures
Our courage, and what evening by and by
Descends to rest us, and perhaps to heal?
Mark van Doren
a cake that took me two days to complete - grand marnier syrup soaked chocolate genoise sponge, chocolate mousse, orange bavarois, topped with glacage chocolat noir (dark chocolate glaze) and orange fruit seches (dried orange slices). i left out the orange macarons which were supposed 2b on the decor coz it was just too much work. this cake looks simple but its made up of 5 components, and the thing abt french pastry/cake making is that, most steps require double boiling, or baking something using very low heat for long hours. take the orange fruit seches for eg. i actually baked them for abt 2 hrs on 80 deg C, and that's not inclusive of prior soaking in sugar syrup overnight!
and the lousy wilton cake leveler didnt do a good job. it just couldnt slice the sponge cake properly. boo!
As people sometimes quote, "you came into the world with nothing, and you go out with nothing." Bereaved family and friends set their loved one apart from the surrounding burial sites. But to an outsider, there is little to distinguish one burial from another. Fashions throughout the decades or maybe cemetery rules dictate the kinds of monuments in stone or metal that visitors can see, but otherwise the great and the small, the widely known and the unknown all recline about 6 feet down beneath the surface level. Given the height of the coffin and the surrounding dimension of the cement burial container that holds it, that leaves just a couple of feet from sunshine to the upper surface of the cement container.
This mid-morning photo on Tuesday shows some of the workers finishing the excavation with the cement vault standing ready near the figures.
Press L for lightbox (large) view; click the image or press Z for full image display.
Hover the mouse pointer over the image for pop-up remarks.
Love, too, a leveler, a dying all its own,
the parts left behind not to be replaced,
a loss ongoing, and every day increased,
like rising in the night, at 3:00 am,
to watch the snow or the dead leaf fall,
the rings around the streetlight in the rain,
and then the rain, the red fist in the heart
opening and closing almost without me.
–Stanley Plumly
Vermeer Terrain Leveler half-smiling, showing some of its teeth at the ConExpo 2008 in Las Vegas, NV.
What to do when beavers threaten your conservation efforts?
Western North Carolina’s Kanuga Conference Center is home to a Southern Appalachian Mountain bog - one of North America’s rarest habitats. Bogs often home to rare plants and animals, provide important habitat for migratory birds and game species, improve water quality by filtering sediment and contaminants, and store floodwaters which helps decrease downstream flooding. They’re places we very much want to conserve.
Kanuga’s bog has seen the recent arrival of beavers. On one hand, they’re cutting down shrubs, which is a positive step as it allows more sunlight to fall on the plants managers want to thrive. On the other hand, their dams are making water levels so high they’re turning the bogs into ponds – eliminating habitat for the plants and animals that need the bog to live.
A solution? Install pond levelers –pipes through the beaver dams that help drain the pooled water down to a desired level and minimize the ability of beavers to detect stream flow – tricking them into thinking their dams are intact.
Recently staff from Kanuga Conferences, Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy the N.C. Natural Heritage Program, The Nature Conservancy, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service joined a team of Haywood Community College students to install two pond levelers at the Kanuga Bog.
Cycle Chalao City Bachao - Installation By: - Rajesh N. Nakar.
Interior Designer, Visual merchandiser @ Artist.
Nikon D90 Nikon 50mm f/1.8 @ Nikon SB-600 hitting the sky
Life is a leveler and world as we all know it, is ROUND. "As you sow, so shall you reap" has been said and heard thousands of times. Yet, humans continue to do and act in a way that more than once could hamper its healthy existence.
Invention of wheel is considered man's finest discovery till date. Wheels just didn't help him move, it kept moving. However, there is no limitation to a man/s need and his urge for speed. So, the world moved from discovering a basic bi-cycle to scooters, cars and other modern luxuries that could help his need for speed!
"There is enough in this world for everybody's need, but not for everybody's greed" said Mahatma Gandhi. We have been warned and repeatedly told to save natural resources like Gold, Oil, Silver, Copper etc ...
but what about the environment we live in?
Time has come to adapt to more practical measures than resort to ones that we find it difficult to follow.
'Cycle Chalao City Bachao' should be one such weekly campaign that has to be followed and implemented by individuals.
Professionalism riding cycles should not be looked down upon.
Every individual should do their best to reduce pollution and help a greater cause. The first citizen of the city should initiate such campaigns for the betterment of the society. Perhaps, now is the right time when petrol and diesel prices are soaring high!
Health benefits of cycling are widely acknowledged. During cycling; most of the body's muscles are activated. Cycling tightens up the muscular system, making it stronger and able to function efficiently.
The last best time 'Ride the Change' was 20 years ago; the next best if Today!
Made of 2 old doors from the storage rooms of an old apartment complex that is being renovated. The wood is knotty grade white pine.... wood used for purely utilitarian uses...like basement locker doors. They date to about 1890-1900. and have lots of character including pencil marks from the builders, probably old German immigrants. The glass is a desk top from a desk that no longer exists but somehow we acquired it. The bracing pieces are from a 2x6 hemlock joist from a carriage house that was demolished a few months back. Its wood is a little newer, probably 19-teens.
For this piece I wanted to clearly demonstrate the material's provenance from old buildings, and incorporate some of the architectural elements such as the tongue and groove panels, the bent-over nails and the simple "Z" shaped bracing.
The "front" side of the door can make a nice table top but I wanted to show off the "Z" side. In the store we had a piece of desktop glass. I trimmed the door to slightly less than the glass dimensions, and finished the top with water-based, satin polyurethane.
A second door was used to make the legs. That door was cut in half and the first and last boards removed. The edges of the removed boards were ripped flat (no tongue or groove) and butted at 90 degrees to the edge of the remaining door panel and glued and screwed together with trim screws. The whole thing was braced internally with some scraps of poplar I had in the shop. The ends (top and bottom) were cut at 10 degrees with a circular saw and leveler feet were added to the bottom brace.
The legs were attached to a block that was through the top with trim screws. The legs were attached to the block with heavy, 2.5 inch Spax screws underneath.
The braces were made from resawn hemlock and attached through the top with trim screws and to the legs and center structure with longer SPax.
Everything was lightly sanded and varnished and small silicone bumpers were attached to the top to prevent the glass from sliding.
Eventually here I will get some nice picture in a better setting than the shop.
Made of 2 old doors from the storage rooms of an old apartment complex that is being renovated. The wood is knotty grade white pine.... wood used for purely utilitarian uses...like basement locker doors. They date to about 1890-1900. and have lots of character including pencil marks from the builders, probably old German immigrants. The glass is a desk top from a desk that no longer exists but somehow we acquired it. The bracing pieces are from a 2x6 hemlock joist from a carriage house that was demolished a few months back. Its wood is a little newer, probably 19-teens.
For this piece I wanted to clearly demonstrate the material's provenance from old buildings, and incorporate some of the architectural elements such as the tongue and groove panels, the bent-over nails and the simple "Z" shaped bracing.
The "front" side of the door can make a nice table top but I wanted to show off the "Z" side. In the store we had a piece of desktop glass. I trimmed the door to slightly less than the glass dimensions, and finished the top with water-based, satin polyurethane.
A second door was used to make the legs. That door was cut in half and the first and last boards removed. The edges of the removed boards were ripped flat (no tongue or groove) and butted at 90 degrees to the edge of the remaining door panel and glued and screwed together with trim screws. The whole thing was braced internally with some scraps of poplar I had in the shop. The ends (top and bottom) were cut at 10 degrees with a circular saw and leveler feet were added to the bottom brace.
The legs were attached to a block that was through the top with trim screws. The legs were attached to the block with heavy, 2.5 inch Spax screws underneath.
The braces were made from resawn hemlock and attached through the top with trim screws and to the legs and center structure with longer SPax.
Everything was lightly sanded and varnished and small silicone bumpers were attached to the top to prevent the glass from sliding.
Eventually here I will get some nice picture in a better setting than the shop.
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This my Mercury after they removed the front section so they could move and steer it. It was perfectly driveable in this condition. The body shop used all orignal Mercury parts to do the repairs, they asked if I wanted aftermarket or recycled, meaning from the wrecking yard. I'll take original wrecking yard parts. I will say the body shop took very good care to put this back together with original parts. They even had me see the parts they were using. Needing new rear airbags, this car has load leveler suspension. Up until this accident it had all the original lights in the front.
L'Anima - a gourmet Italian restaurant in the City of London, near Finnsbury Square and Liverpool Street.
Its passionate Chef Francesco is half-Calabrian and half Sicilian who keeps a tight grip on the proceedings of his kitchen ran by 40 staff - all Italians, except for a delightful German lady whose presence adds Anglo-Saxon elegance to an otherwise very Mediterranean environment: don't get me wrong L'Anima is no run-of-the-mill trattoria decorated with lamps made of Chianti bottles.
The interior decoration is restrained and minimalist that exudes refinement without ostentation.
Its kitchen, by far larger than the space of the bar and restaurant is a model of well-equipped modernity with no money spared for the best utensils: they bake their own bread on the premises.
And the food? What kind of food is it?
Francesco is uncompromising about his traditional family cuisine, taught by his 'mamma' and his nonna: he called it "traditional Italian family cuisine with a twist!" - that is HIS version of Southern Italy - Calabrese, Puglian, Sicilian with occasional concessions to Tuscany, Veneto or Roman...
The monthly Saturday cookery course is a mixture of demonstration, hands-on cooking, degustation, competition with the prize of a (black) truffle the size of a chicken egg and a three course meal for twenty with white wine from Aosta red wine from the the volcanic slopes of the Etna and a red desert wine.
Ah I forgot the "Italian breakfast" of coffee, bread, butter and four jams. Said an American lady registered for the course; "Francesco next time you do not give us this bullshit you give us instead coffee with a shot of grappa, like the Italian working classes have for breakfast".
Well, grappa is a great leveler, so we drank to that at the end of the lunch.
Francesco-s personality is larger than life: his staff are grateful and are kept on the straight and narrow; i asked him if he shouted in the kitchen he gave an unapologetic "yes". But do you swear? i asked looking at his staff whose faces were sheepish - a mixture of a smirk with an embarrasment - well this WAS my answer - I can't remember what he said...
Francesco's cuisine is prodigal: does he look forward to having a star in the Michelin? He denies it. He says that he is true to himself, regardless. He has somewhere posted a list of the 100 best restaurants in Britain: at the top of the list there is this rural eatery on the Thames Valley, somewhere, which was shut for several weeks by the food inspectors for having poisoned its hosts. L'Anima was amongst the top 20 on this list, more precisely at number 17. Maybe it should start poisoning its clients to gain the first place: "i do not make concession to my clients. Once one gets famous one could do what one likes.". Francesco is a likeable and diplomatic presence, but as most talented people go, he must be difficult to work for. But his staff is glad to work for l"Anima which they helped up the slippery ladder of the gourmet restaurants in London.
Thank you Francesco!
Thank you too to the friendly presence of Francesco's American financial backers and great gourmet connoisseurs who added colour, spontaneity and warmth to our course. (not forgetting the young and distinguished Oxonian-Finno_Brits who stimulated the conversation).
What to do when beavers threaten your conservation efforts?
Western North Carolina’s Kanuga Conference Center is home to a Southern Appalachian Mountain bog - one of North America’s rarest habitats. Bogs often home to rare plants and animals, provide important habitat for migratory birds and game species, improve water quality by filtering sediment and contaminants, and store floodwaters which helps decrease downstream flooding. They’re places we very much want to conserve.
Kanuga’s bog has seen the recent arrival of beavers. On one hand, they’re cutting down shrubs, which is a positive step as it allows more sunlight to fall on the plants managers want to thrive. On the other hand, their dams are making water levels so high they’re turning the bogs into ponds – eliminating habitat for the plants and animals that need the bog to live.
A solution? Install pond levelers –pipes through the beaver dams that help drain the pooled water down to a desired level and minimize the ability of beavers to detect stream flow – tricking them into thinking their dams are intact.
Recently staff from Kanuga Conferences, Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy the N.C. Natural Heritage Program, The Nature Conservancy, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service joined a team of Haywood Community College students to install two pond levelers at the Kanuga Bog.
Made of 2 old doors from the storage rooms of an old apartment complex that is being renovated. The wood is knotty grade white pine.... wood used for purely utilitarian uses...like basement locker doors. They date to about 1890-1900. and have lots of character including pencil marks from the builders, probably old German immigrants. The glass is a desk top from a desk that no longer exists but somehow we acquired it. The bracing pieces are from a 2x6 hemlock joist from a carriage house that was demolished a few months back. Its wood is a little newer, probably 19-teens.
For this piece I wanted to clearly demonstrate the material's provenance from old buildings, and incorporate some of the architectural elements such as the tongue and groove panels, the bent-over nails and the simple "Z" shaped bracing.
The "front" side of the door can make a nice table top but I wanted to show off the "Z" side. In the store we had a piece of desktop glass. I trimmed the door to slightly less than the glass dimensions, and finished the top with water-based, satin polyurethane.
A second door was used to make the legs. That door was cut in half and the first and last boards removed. The edges of the removed boards were ripped flat (no tongue or groove) and butted at 90 degrees to the edge of the remaining door panel and glued and screwed together with trim screws. The whole thing was braced internally with some scraps of poplar I had in the shop. The ends (top and bottom) were cut at 10 degrees with a circular saw and leveler feet were added to the bottom brace.
The legs were attached to a block that was through the top with trim screws. The legs were attached to the block with heavy, 2.5 inch Spax screws underneath.
The braces were made from resawn hemlock and attached through the top with trim screws and to the legs and center structure with longer SPax.
Everything was lightly sanded and varnished and small silicone bumpers were attached to the top to prevent the glass from sliding.
Eventually here I will get some nice picture in a better setting than the shop.
What to do when beavers threaten your conservation efforts?
Western North Carolina’s Kanuga Conference Center is home to a Southern Appalachian Mountain bog - one of North America’s rarest habitats. Bogs often home to rare plants and animals, provide important habitat for migratory birds and game species, improve water quality by filtering sediment and contaminants, and store floodwaters which helps decrease downstream flooding. They’re places we very much want to conserve.
Kanuga’s bog has seen the recent arrival of beavers. On one hand, they’re cutting down shrubs, which is a positive step as it allows more sunlight to fall on the plants managers want to thrive. On the other hand, their dams are making water levels so high they’re turning the bogs into ponds – eliminating habitat for the plants and animals that need the bog to live.
A solution? Install pond levelers –pipes through the beaver dams that help drain the pooled water down to a desired level and minimize the ability of beavers to detect stream flow – tricking them into thinking their dams are intact.
Recently staff from Kanuga Conferences, Carolina Mountain Land Conservancy the N.C. Natural Heritage Program, The Nature Conservancy, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service joined a team of Haywood Community College students to install two pond levelers at the Kanuga Bog.