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I'm still alive.... :) This is a vertorama of the Puyallup, WA fairgrounds. I took it early in the morning, and was hoping for some crazy colors. That didn't happen, but I still thought it was a cool shot so I decided to process and post it. The final product is a manually blended DRI using three different exposures (One for the sky, one for the roller coaster, and one for the foreground).
I've been out and about taking photos lately, so hopefully it won't be 1-2 months before I post another shot. Kudos to those of you that are able to take and process so many shots in such a short period of time. I suppose it's just a matter of prioritizing...
First, I will prioritize Japanese and English, and release my novel, B♭ (B-flat).
It is available in the Drive below.
Drive folder for novel publication:
drive.google.com/drive/folders/1EUyKO4locQKzfKfvmlh0-uamF...
B♭
Mitsushiro Nakagawa, with ChatGPT 5.5
A North Korean cryptocurrency system is hacked.Hundreds of millions of dollars disappear.
At the end of that invisible flow of money, a group of Palestinian men and women from Gaza secretly enters the United States.
Their purpose is not merely revenge.They intend to “recreate” the lost homeland of Gaza on American soil.
Hardline immigration policies.A nation divided by fear and resentment.A society already beginning to fracture from within.
Using all of it, a silent plan moves forward.
During a speech, Republican presidential candidate Justin Bradford is shot.At almost the same moment in Los Angeles, former President Owen Reed is also attacked at a campaign event for Democratic candidate Ryan Bennett.
Two gunshots.One divided nation.
But Justin survives.
His life is saved by an extraordinarily rare blood type: Bombay blood.The only person able to provide it is Anaya Patel, a community art facilitator working in Brooklyn.
One woman’s blood touches the fate of a nation.What seemed like coincidence slowly begins to draw her into the center of a much larger design.
Terror.Election politics.Immigration.Memory.Blood.Prayer.
A plan born from revenge begins to blur the line between justice and emptiness, salvation and hatred.
Some still believe the wounded world deserves punishment.Others begin to understand that beyond that punishment, nothing may remain.
The lights of Manhattan.The silence of Brooklyn.Memories left beside the river.
The city keeps shining as if nothing has happened.But beneath its streets, a low sound continues to resonate — unheard, unresolved, unforgettable.
What does revenge take from us?Whom can prayer save?And where do we go, carrying everything we have lost?
Trailer
Soundtrack
B♭ — My Novel Playlist
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack/pl.u-47...
B♭ — My Novel Playlist for Japanese
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack-for-jap...
© 2026 Mitsushiro Nakagawa. All rights reserved.
No part of this work may be reproduced, distributed, modified, or transmitted without permission from the author.
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僕はまず、日本語と英語を優先して、僕の小説、【B♭（ビーフラット）】を公開しました。
それは以下のドライブにあります。
Drive folder for novel publication: (小説専門の公開用ドライブ)
drive.google.com/drive/folders/1EUyKO4locQKzfKfvmlh0-uamF...
B♭
Mitsushiro Nakagawa, with ChatGPT 5.5
北朝鮮の仮想通貨システムがハッキングされ、数億ドルが奪取された。
その資金の流れの先で、ガザ出身のパレスチナ男女のグループが、密かにアメリカ合衆国へ潜入する。
彼らの目的は、失われた祖国ガザを、アメリカの地に「復元」することだった。
共和党による強硬な移民政策。
国内にくすぶる排外感情。
分断されていく社会。
そのすべてを利用し、アメリカを内側から崩壊させる計画が、静かに進行していく。
共和党大統領候補ジャスティン・ブラッドフォードが演説中に撃たれ、ほぼ同じ時刻、ロサンゼルスでは前大統領オーウェン・リードもまた銃撃される。
国家を二分する、ふたつの銃声。
だが、ジャスティンは奇跡的に生還する。
彼の命をつないだのは、世界でも極めて希少な血液型――ボンベイブラッド。
その血を提供できたのは、ブルックリンで活動するコミュニティアート・ファシリテーター、アナヤ・パテルだった。
ひとりの女性の血が、国家の運命に触れてしまう。
その偶然は、やがて偶然ではなかったかのように、彼女自身を巨大な事件の中心へ引き寄せていく。
テロ、選挙、移民、血、記憶、祈り。
破壊を信じる者と、破壊の果てに残る空虚を見てしまう者。
復讐として始まった計画は、いつしか救済と虚無の境界を曖昧にしていく。
マンハッタンの夜。
ブルックリンの光。
川辺に残された記憶。
都市は何事もなかったかのように輝き続けている。
だがその足元では、誰にも聞こえない低い音が鳴っている。
復讐は、何を奪うのか。
祈りは、誰を救うのか。
そして人は、失われたものを抱えたまま、どこへ向かうのか。
Trailer
Soundtrack
B♭ — My Novel Playlist
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack/pl.u-47...
B♭ — My Novel Playlist for Japanese
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack-for-jap...
© 2026 Mitsushiro Nakagawa. All rights reserved.
本作品の著作権は Mitsushiro Nakagawa に帰属します。内容の全部または一部を、著者の許可なく複製・転載・改変することを禁じます。
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Nicollet Mall in downtown Minneapolis is shown during light snowfall in December 2021, with a pedestrian walking past storefronts and seasonal lighting installations. The transit-and-pedestrian corridor was redesigned in the 1960s to prioritize foot traffic along one of the city’s main commercial streets and later rebuilt in the 2010s.
Canadians are often known for several positive characteristics, including:
1.Politeness and Courtesy – They have a reputation for being polite, saying “sorry” often, and treating others with respect.
2.Friendliness – Canadians are generally warm and welcoming to both locals and visitors.
3.Diversity and Inclusivity – Canada is multicultural, and its people embrace diversity in ethnicity, culture, and perspectives.
4.Tolerance and Open-Mindedness – Canadians tend to value human rights, equality, and progressive social policies.
5.Community-Oriented – Many Canadians are involved in their communities and prioritize social well-being.
6.Love for Nature and the Outdoors – With stunning landscapes, Canadians often appreciate and respect nature, engaging in outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and skiing.
7.Sense of Humor – They have a dry, self-deprecating, and sometimes quirky sense of humor.
8.Humble and Modest – Canadians tend to downplay achievements and avoid arrogance.
9.Hardworking and Resourceful – Whether in cities or remote regions, Canadians have a strong work ethic.
10.Peacefulness – They are generally non-confrontational and support diplomacy over aggression.
Thanks ChatGPT (prompt: tell me about Canadians)!
This as close to “unobtainium” as I have found on Earth.
An exceptionally unusual shiny black meteorite find was recovered in 2011 in Morocco by Aziz Habibi (I bought it from him). Officially named NWA 7034, it was nicknamed “Black Beauty” by Dr. Carl Agee, Director of the Institute of Meteoritics. A team of scientists led by Agee found a number of marvels in this oldest and rarest of Martian meteorites: it contains the oldest Martian minerals ever dated (formed 4.48 billion years ago), it contains ~ 20x more water than any other Martian samples previously encountered (perhaps formed under an early Martian ocean), it is among the very few martian basalts that do not contain maskelynite (impact-melted plagioclase glass), and it is the only brecciated Martian (i.e., they are composed of angular fragments of different rock types fused together). Carl Agee did an hour-long talk on NWA 7034 here, with a short summary here: "this is a once in a career discovery."
These rocks were so novel they were provided a new subtype "Martian (polymict breccia)" in the Met Bull. Moreover, in July 2022, it was determined that Black Beauty most likely originated from the Karratha Crater in Mars’s southern hemisphere; approximately 10 million years ago, the asteroid impact which formed the crater also ejected a large volume of Mars rock into space, some of which perturbed into an Earth-crossing orbit — and it took the long route, a journey of ~15,000 orbits around the Sun before penetrating Earth’s atmosphere.
Black Beauty contains relatively large crystals of plagioclase (a calcium-aluminum silicate) and pyroxene (a calcium-magnesium-iron silicate). These large mineral grains are surrounded by fine-grained material that formed from rapidly cooling lava, most likely following a volcanic eruption. Rock and mineral fragments were incorporated into the flow during the eruption, giving the rock its brecciated appearance. Accessory minerals include chlorapatite, chromite, goethite, ilmenite, magnetite, maghemite, alkali feldspar and pyrite.
A lay summary of the location news from Physical Org:
"Scientists announced Tuesday they had found the crater from which the oldest known Martian meteorite was originally blasted towards Earth, a discovery that could provide clues into how our own planet was formed. The meteorite NWA 7034, nicknamed Black Beauty, has fascinated geologists since it was discovered in the Sahara Desert in 2011.
It contains a mix of materials including zircons, which date back nearly 4.5 billion years. "That makes it one of the oldest rocks studied in the history of geology," Sylvain Bouley, a planetary scientist at France's Paris-Saclay University, told AFP.
Its journey dates back to the solar system's infancy, "about 80 million years after the planets began forming", said Bouley, who co-authored a new study on the meteorite. Tectonic plates long ago covered up Earth's ancient crust, meaning that "we have lost this primitive history of our planet", Bouley said.
But Black Beauty could offer "an open book on a planet's first moments", he added. By measuring Black Beauty's exposure to cosmic rays, they knew it was dislodged from its first home around five million years ago.
"So, we were looking for a crater that was very young and large," Lagain said. Another clue was that its composition showed it had suddenly heated up around 1.5 million years ago—likely by the impact of a second asteroid.
The team then created an algorithm and used a supercomputer to trawl through images of 90 million craters taken by a NASA satellite. That narrowed it down to 19 craters, allowing the researchers to rule out the remaining suspects.
They found that Black Beauty was dug up from its first home by an asteroid that struck around 1.5 billion years ago, forming the 40-kilometer Khujirt crater.
Then a few million years ago, another asteroid hit not far away, creating the 10-kilometer Karratha crater and shooting the Black Beauty towards Earth.
The region in Mars' southern hemisphere is rich in the elements potassium and thorium, just like Black Beauty. Another factor was that Black Beauty is the only Martian meteorite that is highly magnetized. "The region where Karratha was found is the most magnetized on Mars," Lagain said.
Known as the Terra Cimmeria—Sirenum province, it is "a relic of the early crustal processes on Mars, and thus, a region of high interest for future missions," the study said."
and Space,com summarized how the findings can prioritize the destination for future Mars landings:
"The origin of Martian meteorites was an old enigma," Lagain said. Discovering the birthplace of one "is pretty much equivalent to a free sample-return mission," he noted.
"Now we know that the rock comes from the Terra Cimmeria-Sirenum province," Lagain said. "This region hosts the clues to understand[ing] the first stage of evolution and differentiation of the planet. If one wants to understand how Mars formed and evolved, then we need to analyze this province much more than we do right now."
The findings suggest that sending a rover or drone to this region "would help us understand what happened 4.5 billion years ago on Mars," soon after the Red Planet, Earth and the solar system's other rocky worlds were born, Lagain said. This information, in turn, may help "fill the gap in knowledge for the same period of time on Earth."
This black beauty is 61 x 33 x 19mm and 55 grams.
The color version of my 2nd most faved image on Flickr.
Full set of new old with Marie-Pier
new old: from unused, unexploited, forgotten RAW files from a shoot. Back then I was prioritizing film shots, so I didn't feel like processing extra similar digital versions. However with time it's fun to go back in the vault and look at your unused work from a different eye and go in there with a mindset and mood you feel right now.
July 18, 2023 The Hill Live brings together caregivers, patients, clinical experts, and lawmakers to answer these questions and more as we discuss the fight against Alzheimer’s and breakthroughs in providing relief to those who suffer from agitation and aggression.
Alzheimer’s disease affects about 55 million people worldwide, including 6.5 million Americans, and has no cure. Some patients with Alzheimer’s sometimes show signs of extreme aggression or become restless and anxious as their brains lose the ability to negotiate with new stimulus.
Agitation is a common neuropsychiatric symptom in Alzheimer’s dementia and one of the most complex and stressful aspects of caring for people living with the condition. It is reported in approximately half of people with Alzheimer’s dementia and is associated with earlier alternative living placement.
What do patients, caregivers and families navigating the complexities of agitation associated with Alzheimer’s need to know? How are researchers and doctors better understanding risk factors and diagnoses? What policy actions can prioritize research, detection and treatment? And what are the access considerations for patients and their caregivers as they navigate this difficult symptom?
LOCATION
National Press Club Holeman Lounge, 529 14th St. NW, 13th Floor, Washington, DC 20045
Polygamy can be categorized into two main types:
1. Polygamy : Expressive and Transparent (Verified)
2. Concealed Polygamy, where one pretends to be monogamous to their lovers. (Unable to verify)
Type #1 Polygamy
www.flickr.com/photos/161478161@N05/53215091071
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Type #2 Concealed Polygamy
☑ Multiple Secret Lovers,
☑ Multiple Avatars, Multiple Accounts
☑ Created new avatars with the intention of forming Meaningful Relationships, rather than seeking casual encounters or "friends with benefits."
☑ Get married and pretend to be faithful (Monogamous) to their partners.
" They have many secret lovers, many secret girlfriends/boyfriends, many secret wives/husbands, and many children in separate accounts (avatars).
If you thought the first type of poly was bad, the second type is the worst (truly bad). I would like to call people like this impostors; there are many of them in SL."
☑ Most of them don't really know they are polygamous, don't accept it, and consider themselves as womanizers, badasses, or playboys, without viewing themselves realistically as cheaters, liars, unfaithful lovers, and the worst type of all a**holes.
☑ They deceive others by pretending to be faithful partners without feeling any guilt or shame for their actions at all.
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☑ They all agree that Poly isn't good and lacks three things.(heart, truth, happiness). They don't follow a Poly lifestyle; instead, they believe they are better than Poly. They feel superior to Poly because they prioritize loyalty, marriage, deep commitment, peaceful family, much respect, and treat their loved ones more kindly as a one-hearted lover.
They believe they possess larger hearts, are more truthful, and experience greater happiness due to their numerous monogamous relationships, which surpass the satisfaction of typical couples who engage in only one relationship at a time.
Most of them are so narcissistic, talented, charming, and exceedingly confident that they believe they are the smartest and happiest people.
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☑ Most of them firmly believe that they have a heart bigger than everyone else's.
Do you believe people who do this kind of polyamory lack genuine hearts?
The person who claims to love someone the most, tells another person that they are the only one they love, that they are the most important, and that they miss them the most. The person who also makes numerous promises and vows to all their secret lovers.
Do you believe people like them truly possess the big-heartedness they claim to have?
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☑ Most of them firmly believe that they possess truth and happiness.
They have the kind of truth their partner wants to hear. They said everything and believed it to be true.
They believe they are happier because they have more partners than those in pure monogamy.
Do you think that genuinely happy people could behave and lie like this without shame? Is this really the behavior of happy people?
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☑ They lack, just like all polys, but they can't even accept a truth about themselves. Most of them are too weak and narcissistic to dare to confront the truth about themselves. They believe they have bigger hearts than other good people and possess both truthfulness and happiness much better than polyamorous people.
☑ They live their lives pretending to be something they are not and think it is happiness.
☑ Many of them may see it as a rewarding way of life, yielding the greatest benefits. They were certainly convinced that they received more advantages than the first type of polyamory.
" Is it genuinely worth living as someone other than yourself just to maintain multiple lovers? Nevertheless, each day demands that you feign monogamy, playing the role of a faithful lover to keep your partners content. This charade incurs an immeasurable cost, gradually leading you to lose your true self and the authentic happiness of being who you truly are. "
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" Your loved ones don't truly love you! If they knew the truth about you, they wouldn't be able to accept who you are. It's not the real you they love; they love the character you've fooled them with, and it's not truly you, not even for a day. That means YOU're not genuinely loved, not even for a day.
Every day, you live as someone other than yourself, convinced that there's only gain and no loss. Unaware of the immeasurable cost of both losing and living your true self, you become the ultimate fool. "
Scarlett Saphira
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" Who genuinely gains and experiences true happiness from your pretense— you or your lovers?
Have you grasped the concept? Who attains greater genuine happiness? Your lover possesses a wonderful, faithful partner. However, you hold onto the confidence that you profit without any losses; is that truly the case? You work hard for your lover's happiness without realizing what you're sacrificing! "
I hope this helps!
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This large canvas is signed by one Addie Diefenbach in the lower and has a partially visible date in the 1880s.
It is one of several marine paintings that complement the nautical decor at a newly reopened and redecorated restaurant in the seaside community of Long Beach, Washington.
I'd say whoever selected them prioritized genre and availability over quality.
The only online reference to an artist named Addie Diefenbach I was able to find was the auction listing for this very piece. It said it was the first of Ms. Diefenbach's works to come up for auction. www.mutualart.com/Artist/Addie-Diefenbach/B25C1C959DD2ADA9
Some time between when the painting was photographed for the auction catalogue and when I saw it hanging on the wall of the restaurant earlier this week several holes, two of which were fairly large, were punched into the canvas. I healed them with Photo Shop.
ChatGPT pointed out that in the first English translation, Chapter 6, Sections 4 through 11 had been translated rather roughly. I therefore retranslated those sections and uploaded the revised version as the Fourth Edition.
最初に翻訳した英語版は、第６章第４節から第１１節が、かなり荒い翻訳になっているとチャットGPTに指摘されたので、再翻訳し、第4版として、アップロードし直しました。
I have announced the publication of my novel. While the English, Spanish, and French versions are already out, the German translation is currently in progress.
My novel, B♭, is now available
I’m an Apple fan, so Apple products appear in the story. :)
.
The Japanese and English editions have already been published.
It can be found in the following Drive folder:
Drive folder for novel publication:
drive.google.com/drive/folders/13PJuSA8Q2AdvVd7JGl-Q4AVTA...
B♭
Mitsushiro Nakagawa, with ChatGPT 5.5
North Korea’s cryptocurrency system is hacked, and hundreds of millions of dollars are stolen.
At the end of that hidden flow of money, a group of Palestinian men and women from Gaza secretly infiltrates the United States.
Their purpose is to “restore” their lost homeland, Gaza, on American soil.
A hard-line immigration policy led by the Republican Party.
A smoldering current of xenophobia within the country.
A society breaking further apart.
Using all of it, a plan to collapse America from within begins to move forward in silence.
Republican presidential candidate Justin Bradford is shot during a speech. Almost at the same time, in Los Angeles, former President Owen Reed is also gunned down.
Two gunshots split the nation in two.
Yet Justin miraculously survives.
What keeps him alive is one of the rarest blood types in the world: Bombay blood.
The person able to provide that blood is Anaya Patel, a community art facilitator working in Brooklyn.
The blood of one woman touches the fate of a nation.
That coincidence, as if it had never truly been coincidence, begins to draw her toward the center of an enormous event.
Terrorism, elections, immigration, blood, memory, and prayer.
Those who believe in destruction, and those who have seen the emptiness left beyond it.
A plan that began as revenge gradually blurs the boundary between salvation and nothingness.
The night of Manhattan.
The light of Brooklyn.
Memories left behind by the river.
The city continues to shine as if nothing has happened.
Yet beneath its feet, a low sound no one can hear is still ringing.
What does revenge take away?
Whom does prayer save?
And where do human beings go, carrying what they have lost?
Trailer
Soundtrack
B♭ — My Novel Playlist
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack/pl.u-47...
B♭ — My Novel Playlist for Japanese
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack-for-jap...
© 2026 Mitsushiro Nakagawa. All rights reserved.
The copyright of this work belongs to Mitsushiro Nakagawa.
No part of this work may be reproduced, reprinted, or modified without the author’s permission.
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J’ai publié la version française de mon roman.
Mon roman, B♭ (Si bémol), est désormais disponible.
Les versions japonaise, anglaise et espagnole ont déjà été publiées.
Comme je suis un fan d’Apple, des produits Apple apparaissent dans l’histoire. :)
Il est disponible dans le dossier Drive ci-dessous.
Drive folder for novel publication:
drive.google.com/drive/folders/13PJuSA8Q2AdvVd7JGl-Q4AVTA...
B♭
Mitsushiro Nakagawa, avec ChatGPT 5.5
Le système de cryptomonnaie de la Corée du Nord est piraté, et plusieurs centaines de millions de dollars sont dérobés.
Au bout du flux de cet argent, un groupe d’hommes et de femmes palestiniens originaires de Gaza s’infiltre secrètement aux États-Unis.
Leur objectif est de « reconstituer », sur le sol américain, la patrie perdue qu’est Gaza.
Une politique migratoire dure menée par les Républicains.
Un sentiment xénophobe qui couve au sein du pays.
Une société qui se divise peu à peu.
En exploitant tout cela, un plan destiné à faire s’effondrer l’Amérique de l’intérieur avance en silence.
Le candidat républicain à la présidence, Justin Bradford, est abattu en plein discours ; presque au même moment, à Los Angeles, l’ancien président Owen Reed est lui aussi victime d’une fusillade.
Deux coups de feu qui fendent la nation en deux.
Mais Justin survit miraculeusement.
Ce qui lui sauve la vie est un groupe sanguin extrêmement rare dans le monde : le sang Bombay.
La seule personne capable de lui donner ce sang est Anaya Patel, facilitatrice d’art communautaire active à Brooklyn.
Le sang d’une femme touche soudain au destin d’une nation.
Ce hasard, comme s’il n’avait finalement jamais été un hasard, attire peu à peu Anaya elle-même au centre d’un événement immense.
Terrorisme, élections, immigration, sang, mémoire, prière.
Ceux qui croient en la destruction, et ceux qui finissent par voir le vide laissé au-delà de la destruction.
Un plan né comme une vengeance brouille peu à peu la frontière entre salut et néant.
La nuit de Manhattan.
La lumière de Brooklyn.
Les souvenirs laissés au bord du fleuve.
La ville continue de briller comme si rien ne s’était passé.
Mais sous ses pieds, un son grave, que personne n’entend, continue de résonner.
Que prend la vengeance ?
Qui la prière sauve-t-elle ?
Et vers où les êtres humains se dirigent-ils, en portant avec eux ce qu’ils ont perdu ?
Trailer
Soundtrack
B♭ — My Novel Playlist
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack/pl.u-47...
B♭ — My Novel Playlist for Japanese
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack-for-jap...
© 2026 Mitsushiro Nakagawa. Tous droits réservés.
Les droits d’auteur de cette œuvre appartiennent à Mitsushiro Nakagawa. Toute reproduction, republication ou modification, totale ou partielle, du contenu de cette œuvre sans l’autorisation de l’auteur est interdite.
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He publicado la edición en español de mi novela.
Mi novela, B♭, ya está disponible.
Soy fan de Apple, así que en la historia aparecen productos de Apple. :)
Las ediciones en japonés y en inglés ya han sido publicadas.
Puede encontrarse en la siguiente carpeta de Drive:
Carpeta de Drive para la publicación de la novela:
drive.google.com/drive/folders/13PJuSA8Q2AdvVd7JGl-Q4AVTA...
B♭
Mitsushiro Nakagawa, with ChatGPT 5.5
El sistema de criptomonedas de Corea del Norte es hackeado, y cientos de millones de dólares son robados.
Al final de ese flujo oculto de dinero, un group de hombres y mujeres palestinos originarios de Gaza se infiltra secretamente en los Estados Unidos.
Su propósito es “restaurar” su patria perdida, Gaza, sobre suelo estadounidense.
Una política migratoria de línea dura impulsada por el Partido Republicano.
Una corriente latente de xenofobia dentro del país.
Una sociedad que se fractura cada vez más.
Aprovechándolo todo, un plan para derrumbar a Estados Unidos desde dentro empieza a avanzar en silencio.
El candidato presidencial republicano Justin Bradford recibe un disparo durante un discurso. Casi al mismo tiempo, en Los Ángeles, el expresidente Owen Reed también es baleado.
Dos disparos dividen a la nación en dos.
Sin embargo, Justin sobrevive milagrosamente.
Lo que mantiene su vida es uno de los tipos de sangre más raros del mundo: la sangre Bombay.
La única persona capaz de donar esa sangre es Anaya Patel, una facilitadora de arte comunitario que trabaja en Brooklyn.
La sangre de una sola mujer toca el destino de una nación.
Aquella coincidencia, como si nunca hubiera sido realmente una coincidencia, comienza a arrastrarla hacia el centro de un acontecimiento inmenso.
Terrorismo, elecciones, inmigración, sangre, memoria y plegaria.
Quienes creen en la destrucción, y quienes han visto el vacío que queda más allá de ella.
Un plan que comenzó como venganza va desdibujando, poco a poco, la frontera entre la salvación y la nada.
La noche de Manhattan.
La luz de Brooklyn.
Los recuerdos abandonados junto al río.
La ciudad sigue brillando como si nada hubiera ocurrido.
Pero bajo sus pies continúa resonando una nota grave que nadie puede oír.
¿Qué arrebata la venganza?
¿A quién salva la plegaria?
¿Y hacia dónde se dirigen los seres humanos, cargando con aquello que han perdido?
Tráiler
Banda sonora
B♭ — My Novel Playlist
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack/pl.u-47...
B♭ — My Novel Playlist for Japanese
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack-for-jap...
© 2026 Mitsushiro Nakagawa. Todos los derechos reservados.
Los derechos de autor de esta obra pertenecen a Mitsushiro Nakagawa.
Ninguna parte de esta obra podrá ser reproducida, reimpresa ni modificada sin la autorización del autor.
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僕は僕の小説を発表しました。英語、スペイン語、フランス語は以下で発表済みです。
現在は、ドイツ語を翻訳中です。
僕の小説、【B♭（ビーフラット）】を公開しました。日本語と英語とスペイン語は公開済みです。
僕はアップルファンなので、アップル製品が登場します。:)
それは以下のドライブにあります。
Drive folder for novel publication: (小説専門の公開用ドライブ)
drive.google.com/drive/folders/13PJuSA8Q2AdvVd7JGl-Q4AVTA...
B♭
Mitsushiro Nakagawa, with ChatGPT 5.5
北朝鮮の仮想通貨システムがハッキングされ、数億ドルが奪取された。
その資金の流れの先で、ガザ出身のパレスチナ男女のグループが、密かにアメリカ合衆国へ潜入する。
彼らの目的は、失われた祖国ガザを、アメリカの地に「復元」することだった。
共和党による強硬な移民政策。
国内にくすぶる排外感情。
分断されていく社会。
そのすべてを利用し、アメリカを内側から崩壊させる計画が、静かに進行していく。
共和党大統領候補ジャスティン・ブラッドフォードが演説中に撃たれ、ほぼ同じ時刻、ロサンゼルスでは前大統領オーウェン・リードもまた銃撃される。
国家を二分する、ふたつの銃声。
だが、ジャスティンは奇跡的に生還する。
彼の命をつないだのは、世界でも極めて希少な血液型――ボンベイブラッド。
その血を提供できたのは、ブルックリンで活動するコミュニティアート・ファシリテーター、アナヤ・パテルだった。
ひとりの女性の血が、国家の運命に触れてしまう。
その偶然は、やがて偶然ではなかったかのように、彼女自身を巨大な事件の中心へ引き寄せていく。
テロ、選挙、移民、血、記憶、祈り。
破壊を信じる者と、破壊の果てに残る空虚を見てしまう者。
復讐として始まった計画は、いつしか救済と虚無の境界を曖昧にしていく。
マンハッタンの夜。
ブルックリンの光。
川辺に残された記憶。
都市は何事もなかったかのように輝き続けている。
だがその足元では、誰にも聞こえない低い音が鳴っている。
復讐は、何を奪うのか。
祈りは、誰を救うのか。
そして人は、失われたものを抱えたまま、どこへ向かうのか。
Trailer
Soundtrack
B♭ — My Novel Playlist
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack/pl.u-47...
B♭ — My Novel Playlist for Japanese
music.apple.com/jp/playlist/b-my-novel-soundtrack-for-jap...
© 2026 Mitsushiro Nakagawa. All rights reserved.
本作品の著作権は Mitsushiro Nakagawa に帰属します。内容の全部または一部を、著者の許可なく複製・転載・改変することを禁じます。
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#イギリス #uk #England #London #ロンドン #英語 ##novel #ネットフリックスへの挑戦 #ChallengetoNetflix #Netflix #ネットフリックス #B♭ #小説 #ビーフラット #千葉 #やちまた #八街 #八街市 #yachimata #yachimatacity #cityofyachimata #NewYork #ニューヨーク #マンハッタン #Manhattan #アメリカ #USA #Chiba #apple #アップル #MrLonely #BobbyVinton #oneokrock #thepilot #LUMIX #panasonic #ルミックス #G3 #パナソニック
#UnitedKingdom #UK #England #London #London #English #Novel #ChallengeToNetflix #ChallengeToNetflix #Netflix #Netflix #B♭ #Novel #BFlat #Chiba #Yachimata #Yachimata #YachimataCity #Yachimata #YachimataCity #CityOfYachimata #NewYork #NewYork #Manhattan #Manhattan #America #USA #Chiba #Apple #Apple #MrLonely #BobbyVinton #OneOkRock #ThePilot #LUMIX #Panasonic #Lumix #G3 #Panasonic
#フランス #フランス語 ##novel #B♭ #小説 #ビーフラット #ネットフリックスへの挑戦 #ChallengetoNetflix #Netflix #ネットフリックス #千葉 #やちまた #八街 #八街市 #yachimata #yachimatacity #cityofyachimata #NewYork #ニューヨーク #マンハッタン #Manhattan #アメリカ #USA #Chiba #apple #アップル #MrLonely #BobbyVinton #oneokrock #thepilot #LUMIX #panasonic #ルミックス #G3 #パナソニック
#France #français #roman #B♭ #SiBémol #roman #DéfiÀNetflix #ChallengetoNetflix #Netflix #Chiba #Yachimata #VilleDeYachimata #yachimata #yachimatacity #cityofyachimata #NewYork #Manhattan #ÉtatsUnis #USA #Apple
In June 2020, after experiencing a devastating spring due to COVID, New York State announced that certain businesses could begin partially opening again. New York City’s response included a program called Open Restaurants, which allowed restaurants to use sidewalks and parking spaces for outdoor, socially distant dining. Owners quickly built temporary enclosures in the streets in front of their businesses to try and recover from months of shutdown. Small stretches of Brooklyn in early 2021 display the variety and feel of these enclosures. Hopefully, the Open Restaurants initiative will help these businesses to survive and may even lead to a more permanent reorienting of streets to prioritize people over cars.
A third of a mile of quad and lung burning goodness at the end of the Barton Creek Greenbelt. Austin, TX.
These vertical format photos are typically a stitch of 2 to 6 seperate photos. This allows different exposures, and tweaks to the saturation/contrast/levels for each seperately, giving a much greater range of values than would be possible otherwise. I try to get significant overlap between photos, allowing a smooth blend between each. Done using layers w/ gradient fill masks, and occasionally some hand work. Nothing too groundbreaking, but does help some. Not true HDR of course, but does allow incorporation of a broader range, and retains some value focal points, which often seem to get lost in HDR images.
I also like the format, since it allows me to shoot almost straight down at the ground, getting the cool little foreground details like gravel/grass/ripples in rich detail, and almost straight up into the sky. To me it results in kind of a story, with allot of interesting different things going on as your eye moves from the bottom to top, like a tapestry. The trick is to keep this range of focal points prioritized, (by acentuating some area towards center w/ value, composition, or color usually), so that the image as a whole can be enjoyed, as well as in parts. Depth or layers revealed upon closer examination, so to speak. This is something I'm obviously still working on. Often there is just to much going on of equal interest, so there is no priority of focal point, making the image less appealing.
© yohanes.budiyanto, 2009
A resort better than the spectacular St. Regis Bali? Well, after a comprehensive personal review, the results finally showed that Conrad Suites Bali reigns supreme with an overall score of 91.6 (St. Regis achieved 91.1).
This is a prime example of a hotel that prioritize guests satisfaction. General Manager Michael Burchett works relentlessly to make sure everybody has a most wonderful time there. A 30-year veteran in the hospitality world, Mr. Burchett is a native Australian and has previously spent 17 years with the Four Seasons group, managing award-winning and critically-acclaimed hotels, including Four Seasons in Bali and Jakarta before calling The Conrad Bali home. Mr. Burchett is currently the Vice Chairman of Bali Hotels Association.
The Conrad Suites is an exclusive collection of 55 oversize suites, housed in a separate new wing adjacent to the Conrad's Main resort. Although guests at Conrad Suites has full access to the extensive facilities found at the main resorts, additional private facilities are also being offered exclusively, which includes private infinity-edged pools with luxuriously appointed garden Bales with its large 4 poster daybed; access to the Club Lounge; and a host of other value added benefits.
CONRAD SUITES BALI
Tanjung Benoa, Nusa Dua, Bali
Promotional Rates
Conrad Suite is offering a promotional rate of USD 450++ for a typical Suite (110 sq.m); while the 120 sq.m Ocean Suite is priced at USD 550++. Pool Suite is also available.
General Manager: Michael Burchett, Hotel Manager: Frederic Lebegue
Chef de Cuisine: Richard Millar
Architect: Wimberley Allison Tong & Goo (WATG)
Landscape: Belt Collins International
Interior: Lim Teo + Wilkes Designworks
My first visit to MRL in 2015 I remembered seeing a flame cut whistle post on the mainline somewhere east of Garrison. We (Welch and I) had places to be seeing as we were racing towards Helena to get the local with an SD45 leader and I didn't remember seeing another one. I didn't prioritize it but I didn't forget it. So, since my experience on MRL's branch lines was nonexistent until this spring I had assumed that was a one-off. Imagine my surprise as I arrived at Sappington and saw this beauty!
Okay, so here's a question (as I'm not working until tonight, and so have some time to sit here in front of the computer, commanding the internet to entertain me):
Is it better for new photographers to use digital or film? Does it make a difference?
Been giving digital & film a lot of thought lately, obviously, and the other day I was talking it over with a friend who's not a photographer, explaining to him the differences, the different challenges and limitations of both.
I'm of the opinion, and this is of course colored by my own experience, that film is better for new folk, that it's the specific limitations of film that help a budding photographer prioritize, and through that, begin to carve out a style.
Having to decide what shots you just HAVE to take, because there's only 36 frames, which shots do you really want, which shots are the most important.
But i'm open to other points of view, as long as they agree with me 100%.
Those dark clouds are not to play with! I recall being sick on this day, but it didn't deter me from doing photography. Life is, indeed, about making the correct prioritizations.
Meet James. He is my third face in 2016. James is a special little guy with two terrific people with hearts of gold as his mama and papa. His dad is one of my oldest friends and his mom has become dear to our family since she has come into our lives. I believe I will continue to be amazed at all the things James will do with his life as he grows. He is off to an impressive start already but, for now, he is just a tyke discovering the world in his own special way.
I also want to apologize for my sporadic interactions on Flickr of late. I am receiving far more notifications than I can possibly keep up with these days. I do not intend to be aloof. It is simply a matter of trying to balance life. I truly appreciate all the interest and kind comments people have expressed in my photos. Truthfully, I have prioritized my time with 52 weeks of 2016, my personal 100 faces project, and lending a hand with the Colours of group once a week. I may pick up other projects from time to time as creativity and motivation strike but personal and professional obligations will not allow for much more than those stated projects for 2016.
Rovingian Council - Nomadic Monks - A Different Tomorrow - Conscious Evolution by Daniel Arrhakis (2026)
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Rovingian Council - Nomadic Monks - A Different Tomorrow - Conscious Evolution
More than great technological advances or interfaces that learn to be and create like humans, we increasingly need to preserve what truly makes us human, such as a universal spiritual consciousness with free will and the right to evolve on its own.
This vision of the Rovingian Council and the Nomadic Monks evokes a future where progress is not measured by gigahertz or algorithmic perfection, but by the depth of conscious experience. Ultimately, it advocates peaceful resistance – the ability to navigate the technological future without being enslaved by it, protecting the autonomy of consciousness.
In a world where artificial intelligence can mimic creativity, true value shifts to the disadvantages of the human soul and our capacity to be "permanently insubordinate."
The Pillars of "A Different Tomorrow" - Conscious Evolution
For this future to manifest, these three axes seem fundamental:
- The Resistance of Sensitivity:
While machines optimize efficiency, the "Nomadic Monks" protect the divine inefficiency of art, creative error, and spiritual contemplation.
- The Ethics of Insubordination:
Freedom ceases to be a legal right and becomes a daily practice—the refusal to be merely a data point in a predictive system.
- Spiritual Neo-humanism:
The search for truth and love not as abstract concepts, but as survival technologies to keep our species connected to the transcendental.
The Role of the Nomadic Monks
These guardians are not isolated in stone monasteries, but in constant movement. They must be the pollinators of culture and the guardians of hope:
- The Preservation of Memory (Cognitive Sovereignty): Keeping alive the philosophies that fast interfaces attempt to simplify. Protecting the space of original thought against the bias of artificial intelligence.
- Prioritizing the Architecture of Encounter:
Promoting sharing and tolerance in physical spaces where touch and gaze cannot be simulated.
- Prioritizing Human-Centered Technology:
Placing human needs and values at the center of innovation. Using technological tools as extensions and not as substitutes for the soul.
- The Preservation of Spirituality:
Maintaining practices that nourish universal consciousness and the search for truth, regardless of digital connectivity. Meditation and contemplation of nature are vital tools for accessing universal consciousness and preventing the mind from becoming merely a repository of "sterile information".
"The greatest innovation of the future will not be a new interface, but the human capacity to remain unpredictable, passionate, and free in a system that demands order and obedience."
Thus, it's not about entirely rejecting everyday technology, but using it as a secondary tool, ensuring that the "human spark" always remains in command.
Wisdom is knowledge applied with compassion. Maintaining this spiritual connection reminds us that we are part of a whole, independent of dogmas or algorithms.
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Conselho Rovingiano - Monges Nómadas - Um Amanhã Diferente - A Evolução Consciente
Mais do que grandes avanços tecnológicos ou interfaces que aprendem a ser e a criar como humanos, precisamos cada vez mais de preservar o que realmente nos torna humanos, como uma consciência espiritual universal com livre-arbítrio e com o direito a evoluir por ela própria.
Esta visão do Conselho Rovingiano e dos Monges Nómadas evoca um futuro onde o progresso não é medido pelo gigahertz ou pela perfeição algorítmica, mas pela profundidade da experiência consciente. No fundo defende uma resistência pacifica - a capacidade de transitar pelo futuro tecnológico sem se deixar escravizar por ele, protegendo a autonomia da consciência.
Num mundo onde a inteligência artificial pode imitar a criatividade, o verdadeiro valor desloca-se para as desvantagens da alma humana e para a nossa capacidade de sermos "permanentemente insubordinados".
Os Pilares de "Um Amanhã Diferente" - A Evolução Consciente
Para que este futuro se manifeste, estes três eixos parecem fundamentais:
- A Resistência da Sensibilidade:
Enquanto as máquinas otimizam a eficiência, os "Monges Nómadas" protegem a ineficiência divina da arte, o erro criativo e da contemplação espiritual.
- A Ética da Insubordinação:
A liberdade deixa de ser um direito legal e passa a ser uma prática diária — a recusa de ser meramente um ponto de dados num sistema preditivo.
- Neo-humanismo Espiritual:
A busca da verdade e do amor não como conceitos abstratos, mas como tecnologias de sobrevivência para manter a nossa espécie ligada ao transcendental.
O Papel dos Monges Nómadas
Estes guardiões não estão isolados em mosteiros de pedra, mas em movimento constante. Eles devem ser os polinizadores da cultura e os guardiões da esperança:
- A Preservação da Memória (Soberania Cognitiva) : Mantendo vivas as filosofias que as interfaces rápidas tentam simplificar. Proteger o espaço do pensamento original contra o enviesamento da inteligência artificial.
- Privilegiar a Arquitetura do Encontro :
Promover a partilha e a tolerância em espaços físicos, onde o toque e o olhar não podem ser simulados.
- Dar Prioridade à Tecnologia Humanocêntrica:
Colocar as necessidades e valores humanos no centro da inovação. Utilizar as ferramentas tecnológicas como extensões e não como substitutos da alma.
- A Preservação da Espiritualidade :
Manter práticas que alimentem a consciência universal e a busca pela verdade, independentemente da conectividade digital. A meditação e a contemplação da natureza são ferramentas vitais para acessar a consciência universal e evitar que a mente se torne apenas um repositório de "informação estéril".
"A maior inovação do futuro não será uma nova interface, mas a capacidade humana de permanecer imprevisível, apaixonada e livre num sistema que exige ordem e obediência."
Assim, não se trata de recusar inteiramente a tecnologia do dia-a-dia , mas utilizá-la como uma ferramenta secundária, garantindo que a "centelha humana" permanece sempre no seu comando.
A sabedoria é o conhecimento aplicado com compaixão. Manter essa conexão espiritual nos lembra que somos parte de um todo, independente de dogmas ou algoritmos.
🇬🇧Let’s not turn away in search of fairy-tale solutions or extravagant dreams, like a gleaming Ferrari or a magic pumpkin. Sometimes, we don’t need luxury; we just need reliability—like a car that gets us where we’re going, fuel-efficient and dependable. Instead of fixating on what we don’t have, let’s prioritize what truly matters.
🇮🇹Non voltiamoci dall'altra parte in cerca di soluzioni da favola o sogni stravaganti, come una Ferrari scintillante o una zucca magica. A volte non abbiamo bisogno del lusso; abbiamo solo bisogno di affidabilità, come un'auto che ci porta dove vogliamo andare, efficiente nei consumi e affidabile. Invece di fissarci su ciò che non abbiamo, diamo la priorità a ciò che conta davvero.
America’s global leadership and national security require a foundation of fiscal sustainability and economic growth. The Coalition for Fiscal and National Security — a highly distinguished, bipartisan group of former senior government officials, chaired by Admiral Mike Mullen — has just released a second statement to draw our country’s attention to how our fiscal health is fundamentally linked to our national security, and to the urgent need to update and re-prioritize our defense and foreign policy strategies to reflect a changing security environment. New York Times national security correspondent David Sanger (left) led a discussion among Admiral Mullen (right), Coalition chairman, and two of the Coalition’s members, former Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel and former Senator Sam Nunn.
Watch the video: youtu.be/DwoZpR_hjZ8
Rovingian Council - The Power of Wonder with Respect and Protective Spirit - Norms and Conduct on Pilgrimages and Quests by Daniel Arrhakis (2026)
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Rovingian Council - The Power of Wonder with Respect and Protective Spirit - Norms and Conduct on Pilgrimages, Quests, and Research Routes.
On the journeys undertaken by Rovingian nomadic monks, whether pilgrimages, quests, or research, there are certain guidelines that must be observed.
The Rovingian Council establishes an ethic of pilgrimage that merges animistic spirituality with active ecological responsibility. For nomadic monks, the act of walking is a liturgy of protection and reverence for the ecosystem.
Here are the fundamental points of conduct for your quests and research, organized by priority:
Identity and Authority
Documentation: It is essential to carry civil identification and credentials that attest to your membership in the Rovingian Council. If necessary, in Portugal use the Citizen Portal to ensure that your civil documents are up-to-date.
Legitimacy: Your conduct reflects the Council; Acting transparently towards local authorities is part of the protective spirit.
Ethics of the Trail and Ecological Footprint
Referenced Trails: Prioritize existing trails to avoid trampling fragile micro-ecosystems. Avoid "making your way" in virgin areas so as not to disrupt micro-habitats. To plan safe and official routes, in Portugal you can consult platforms such as the Portuguese Camping and Mountaineering Federation (FCMP).
Other People's Property: Respect extends to human domain; never cross fenced private properties without the proper authorization from the owners or authorities.
Safety and Self-Sufficiency
Orientation and First Aid: In the absence of a guide, the use of maps, compasses and a first aid kit is mandatory. For communication and safety devices in remote areas, in Portugal check the recommendations of the National Emergency and Civil Protection Authority (ANEPC).
Visibility: Avoid nighttime journeys, minimizing the risk of accidents and disturbing wildlife, which is more active and sensitive during darkness.
The Animistic Spirit
Remember that, in the Rovingian view, each element of nature possesses its own spirituality. Wondering is not a passive act, but a commitment to non-interference and respect:
- "Leave No Trace" Ethics: As the journey is a responsible walk, its impact should be zero. Remember that each element of nature possesses its own spirituality and balance. This includes not leaving trash outside designated areas.
- Observe without picking: Leave flowers, stones, and plants in place.
If you collect any pebbles, a common practice among nomadic monks, ensure that there are enough that they do not interfere with the whole.
- Local consumption and common sense: The purchase of teas, wild fruits, or local products from communities is encouraged, provided that common sense prevails. This means ensuring that the extraction of these products does not jeopardize the sustainability of local species.
- Do not finance destruction (Conscious Consumption): The text highlights the importance of not supporting businesses that operate at the expense of ecological degradation. Nature conservation implies consumption choices that protect biodiversity, instead of contributing to its loss, a growing problem due to intensive agriculture and global trade.
- Silence: Practice silence so as not to disturb the sound balance of the habitat, and this applies to radios and cell phone sounds.
- Abstinence: Abstaining from substances that alter perception ensures that the monk remains vigilant and respectful of the environment.
Humility and Spirit of Mutual Aid
- An attitude of humility and cordiality towards others, fellow travelers, and nature, because after all, the monk is also a pilgrim.
- A spirit of mutual aid for those in need, and at the same time, sufficient humility and self-knowledge to also recognize one's limitations and ask for help when necessary.
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Conselho Rovingiano - O Poder de Maravilhar-se com Respeito e Espírito Protetor - Normas e Condutas nos percursos das peregrinações, buscas e pesquisas.
Nos percursos que os monges nómadas rovingianos fazem, sejam eles percursos de peregrinação, busca ou pesquisa existem certas linhas de conduta que devem ser observadas.
O Conselho Rovingiano estabelece uma ética de peregrinação que funde a espiritualidade animista com a responsabilidade ecológica ativa. Para os monges nómadas, o ato de caminhar é uma liturgia de proteção e reverência pelo ecossistema.
Aqui estão os pontos fundamentais de conduta para as suas buscas e pesquisas, organizados por prioridade:
Identidade e Autoridade
- Documentação: É imperativo portar a identificação civil e as credenciais que atestam a sua pertença ao Conselho Rovingiano. Em caso de necessidade, em Portugal utilize o Portal do Cidadão para garantir que os seus documentos civis estão atualizados.
- Legitimidade: A sua conduta reflete o Conselho; agir com transparência perante autoridades locais é parte do espírito protetor.
Ética do Caminho e Pegada Ecológica
- Caminhos Referenciados: Priorize trilhos existentes para evitar o pisoteio de micro-ecossistemas frágeis. Evite "abrir caminho" em áreas virgens para não perturbar micro-habitats. Para planear rotas seguras e oficiais, em Portugal pode consultar plataformas como a Federação de Campismo e Montanhismo de Portugal (FCMP).
- Propriedade Alheia: O respeito estende-se ao domínio humano; nunca atravesse propriedades privadas vedadas sem a devida autorização dos proprietários ou autoridades.
Segurança e Autossuficiência
- Orientação e Socorro: Na ausência de guia, é obrigatório o uso de mapas, bússolas e kit de primeiros socorros. Para dispositivos de comunicação e segurança em zonas remotas, em Portugal verifique as recomendações da Autoridade Nacional de Emergência e Proteção Civil (ANEPC).
- Visibilidade: Evite trajetos noturnos, minimizando o risco de acidentes e a perturbação da fauna silvestre, que é mais ativa e sensível durante o período de escuridão.
O Espírito Animista
Lembre-se que, na visão Rovingiana, cada elemento da natureza possui uma espiritualidade própria. Maravilhar-se não é um ato passivo, mas um compromisso de não interferência e respeito:
- Ética "Leave No Trace": Como o percurso é uma caminhada responsável, o seu impacto deve ser nulo. Lembre-se que cada elemento da natureza possui a sua própria espiritualidade e equilíbrio. Isto inclui não deixar lixo fora dos locais para o efeito.
- Observar sem colher: Deixe flores, pedras e plantas no seu lugar.
Se recolher algum seixo, pratica comum entre os monges nómadas, assegure-se que existem em numero que não interfere no seu todo.
- Consumo local e bom senso: A compra de chás, frutos silvestres ou produtos locais junto das comunidades é incentivada, desde que o bom senso prevaleça. Isso significa garantir que a extração desses produtos não coloca em risco a sustentabilidade das espécies locais.
- Não financiar a destruição (Consumo consciente): O texto destaca a importância de não apoiar negócios que operam à custa da degradação ecológica. A conservação da natureza implica escolhas de consumo que protejam a biodiversidade, em vez de contribuir para a sua perda, um problema crescente devido à agricultura intensiva e ao comércio global.
- Silêncio: Pratique o silêncio para não perturbar o equilíbrio sonoro do habitat e isso equivale para radios e sons de telemóveis.
- Abstinência: A abstenção de substâncias que alterem a perceção garante que o monge permanece vigilante e respeitoso para com o meio envolvente.
Humildade e Espirito de Entreajuda
- Postura de humildade e cordialidade perante os outros, os companheiros de viagem e a natureza, porque afinal o monge é também ele um peregrino.
- Espirito de entreajuda para quem precise e ao mesmo tempo a humildade e autoconhecimento suficiente para reconhecer também as suas limitações e pedir ajuda em caso de necessidade.
"Area secure, no hostiles in sight."
"Wound channel massive, multiple vital organs shredded, extreme blood loss....sir, you shouldn't be standing....let alone alive, but..."
"STOP TOUCHING ME!!"
"Sir, I need to at least examine you or--"
"I'M FINE, FUCK OFF!!!"
NW1: "....."
NW2: "....."
NW3: "......"
"What the hell are you looking at? Were the civvies wasted?"
NW1: "I uh...sent the order out but we have no confirmation if anyone even did so. The female Bloodfall made herself known right after I gave the order and alot of the crew in the building prioritized her."
"And look at where those priorities got you!! We lost both of them when I had one cornered because you retards can't do anything right! YOU'RE ALL WORTHLESS!!!"
NW3: "........"
".....the fuck's his problem?!"
NW2: "...He uh...he pee'd himself, sir."
"Oh for fucks sakes, get out of here, GO!! Fucking faggot..."
NW1: "W-what's our next move now, sir?...."
"Our last attempts to claim ground in this city went to shit because that's where we were; ground. We need to go higher up...."
NW1: "A-uh....skyscraper?"
"Is the PLAD ready?"
NW1: "The Laser drone? I think so, if was delivered not long ago...."
"Good. Everyone return to base, we need to make our next move..."
The Arulan Reaver units originated with a faulty 'cqc' script which led to the drone prioritizing close quarters combat over long range combat.
Though it was possible to fix the issue, several Arulan units opted to keep it. These units would lay the foundation for the infamous Arulan 'terror' squads, whose units would later be instrumental in the subsequent Arulan insurrection.
Close quarters expert Harper Barron has manifested symptoms of belligerent behavior, perhaps due to an error in her programming or a faulty Hero Core. Reports from her teammates state that her enjoyment of fighting has lead to failures in completing missions, as she prioritizes violence over successfully capturing villains and protecting citizens.
Her current location is unknown, but anonymous witnesses have reported seeing her in the Gladiator Arena of planet Bolawoo III.
Further psychological examinations are necessary in order to accurately estimate how dangerous she is. She is equipped with a lightweight body armor and a Quaza-Powered Ram Gauntlet, engaging at a distance is strongly advised.
Great Mask of Intangibility by @galva_nize_
Gauntlet weapon inspired by @ems_mocs ' Tony Stone and Arcane's Atlas Gauntlets
In June 2020, after experiencing a devastating spring due to COVID, New York State announced that certain businesses could begin partially opening again. New York City’s response included a program called Open Restaurants, which allowed restaurants to use sidewalks and parking spaces for outdoor, socially distant dining. Owners quickly built temporary enclosures in the streets in front of their businesses to try and recover from months of shutdown. Small stretches of Brooklyn in early 2021 display the variety and feel of these enclosures. Hopefully, the Open Restaurants initiative will help these businesses to survive and may even lead to a more permanent reorienting of streets to prioritize people over cars.
♦ Instructions available at Rebrickable ♦
"This is where the fun begins!"
My latest ship from the Prequel Trilogy has arrived, and it surely was a lot of fun to make: here's Obi Wan's Eta-2 Actis Interceptor from Episode III - Revenge of the Sith and The Clone Wars.
This small unit consists of 281 pieces (stand included), and has one major feature: true Minifig scale!
There's a handful of beautiful MOCs of this ship out there already, but most of them are based on the huge cockpit piece from the playsets, so they're drastically oversized. So here I am with a, dare I say, more accurately scaled version.
It does come with a drawback, you guessed it: you can't put a fig inside. A bit ironic I know, but I chose to go for a brick-built cockpit in order to get as close to the original design as I could, prioritizing accuracy over playability, as usual.
The wings were pretty challenging given the ridiculously small scale, and my goal was to have them as thin as possible without compromising the SNOT look.
I'm quite happy with the result and I think this makes a nice little display piece. It's also very swooshable despite the intricate wing design.
I'm usually not a fan of stickers, but I thought this one deserved some sweet markings. I used the sticker sheet from the playset - it is included in the parts list. The color scheme can be changed to red with only a few part swaps (see last page in the instructions).
► Instructions for the Eta-2 Actis Interceptor are available at Rebrickable!
In June 2020, after experiencing a devastating spring due to COVID, New York State announced that certain businesses could begin partially opening again. New York City’s response included a program called Open Restaurants, which allowed restaurants to use sidewalks and parking spaces for outdoor, socially distant dining. Owners quickly built temporary enclosures in the streets in front of their businesses to try and recover from months of shutdown. A small stretch of Brooklyn in February 2021 showed the variety and feel of these enclosures. Hopefully, the Open Restaurants initiative will help these businesses to survive and may even lead to a more permanent reorienting of streets to prioritize people over cars.
The KALISTO Tierpark (often referred to as the Kalisto Zoo) is a charming, family-friendly animal park located in Kamp-Lintfort, Germany, within the scenic Lower Rhine region. Nestled inside the historic Zechenpark - the site of the former Friedrich Heinrich colliery - the zoo beautifully blends industrial heritage with nature. It has become a beloved recreational oasis for locals and travelers alike, especially noted for its picturesque setting featuring a towering, historic mining shaft deck that acts as a backdrop to the green space.
Designed primarily with young children in mind, the park focuses heavily on creating close, memorable interactions between visitors and its animal residents. Rather than housing massive or exotic predators, Kalisto features a welcoming array of mostly domestic and small animals. Visitors can get up close to pet and feed approachable creatures like alpacas, sheep, rabbits, guinea pigs, chickens, and runner ducks, making it an excellent educational space for toddler and primary school-aged kids.
Among the most popular highlights of the zoo are its daily interactive events and specialized animal exhibits. Guests can gather to watch enthusiastic feeding sessions for the resident ferrets, ducks, and chickens, or spend time observing the playful antics of the park's popular meerkat clan. Because the staff prioritizes the animals' well-being and enrichment, it is not uncommon to see the zookeepers taking some of the animals out for casual walks right through the open paths of the public park.
Beyond the animal enclosures, Kalisto functions as a comprehensive, relaxing day-trip destination. The park features an integrated café where parents can unwind with coffee, light snacks, or ice cream while their children explore the massive, neighboring adventure playground. With its affordable admission, certified barrier-free accessibility, and unique therapeutic programs, the park provides a highly inclusive, community-focused environment where families can comfortably spend an entire afternoon.
With all my ❤️ I thank you for your ⭐ or 💬 or just for 👀 it.
A 📷 taken by me
THIS PHOTO IT'S NOT AI 📀
You can look at the Exif data on your right.➡️
In 299 seconds, which is equivalent to 4 minutes and 59 seconds, you can accomplish many things.
These are just a few ideas. Time can be used in many ways according to your interests and needs. I used them to create this beautiful image.
Here are some ideas:
Looking: a beautiful picture in flickr.
Take your camera: and take a photo.
Reply to emails: You can reply to a few quick emails or organize your inbox.
Make a to-do list: Take a moment to plan and prioritize your activities for the day.
Quick call: Make a brief phone call to confirm an appointment or discuss a simple matter.
Stretching exercise: Do a series of stretches to relieve muscle tension.
Meditation or breathing: Spend a few minutes meditating or doing deep breathing exercises.
Drink a glass of water and a healthy snack: Stay hydrated and energized.
Listen to a song: Enjoy a short song or part of a playlist.
Read an article: Read a brief article or part of a book.
Play a short game: Play a quick game on your phone.
Watch an educational video: Watch a short video on YouTube or a learning platform.
Review vocabulary: Learn or review some words in a foreign language.
Read the news: Catch up on the latest news headlines.
Write: Write a paragraph for an article, a story, or a journal entry.
Draw or color: Create a small sketch or color a page.
Play an instrument: Practice a song or scale on your musical instrument.
Send a message: Send a text or voice message to a friend or family member.
Check social media: Spend a few minutes checking and responding on your social media accounts.
Greet a colleague: Grettings from Peñíscola, Spain
ms Rotterdam and ms Zaandam are in the Bay of Panama. While waiting for what was to come the Zaandam captain shared some disturbing news.
10:50 March 27:
Captain’s Announcement:
"4 people on the Zaandam have died in the last few days. Two cases of COVID-19 have been confirmed today.
There are still people with symptoms showing up.
This is making for a very challenging situation".
By the time we docked in Ft. Lauderdale 03 April, and we were off the ship 8 people had perished - 1 heart attack, 7 COVID-19 including 1 crew member.
10 critically ill passengers were rushed to a local hospital for immediate care and another 45 who were unwell remained on board until they were cleared for travel.
27 March:
HAL HQ sent the following:
Zaandam will start transferring only healthy guest to the Rotterdam after Zaandam anchors beside the Rotterdam. Anchoring will begin approximately 11:30.
The transfer process will not start until the Rotterdam has been fuelled.
Those to be transferred today will receive a letter at the cabin door within the hour. They will prioritize those with inside cabins and those over 70.
No crew transfers will occur.
If you do not get a letter you will not be transferred today.
If this is successful transfers will continue over the weekend.
The ship is still waiting for a canal time and both ships will travel together.
Heading home from Green Things with a red grapefruit plant on the backseat.
I captured these lovely A-10s from Davis-Monthan AFB in Tucson through the passenger's windshield. I think we were stopped at a traffic light on Pima in Tucson, Arizona, USA. This is cropped from a moderate angle shot.
These A-10s are constantly in use for training. They are an amazingly effective anti-tank weapon for the Army. The Air Force keeps wanting to kill their budget. I believe we need an Army Air Force with its own budget.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fairchild_Republic_A-10_Thunderbolt_II
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Design
Overview
Side-view drawing of aircraft with cut-throughs showing crucial internal components
A-10 inboard profile drawing
The A-10 has a cantilever low-wing monoplane wing with a wide chord.[32] The aircraft has superior maneuverability at low speeds and altitudes because of its large wing area, high wing aspect ratio, and large ailerons. The wing also allows short takeoffs and landings, permitting operations from primitive forward airfields near front lines. The aircraft can loiter for extended periods and operate under 1,000-foot (300 m) ceilings with 1.5-mile (2.4 km) visibility. It typically flies at a relatively low speed of 300 knots (350 mph; 560 km/h), which makes it a better platform for the ground-attack role than fast fighter-bombers, which often have difficulty targeting small, slow-moving targets.[52]
The leading edge of the wing has a honeycomb structure panel construction, providing strength with minimal weight; similar panels cover the flap shrouds, elevators, rudders, and sections of the fins.[53] The skin panels are integral with the stringers and are fabricated using computer-controlled machining, reducing production time and cost. Combat experience has shown that this type of panel is more resistant to damage. The skin is not load-bearing, so damaged skin sections can be easily replaced in the field, with makeshift materials if necessary.[54] The ailerons are at the far ends of the wings for a greater rolling moment and have two distinguishing features: The ailerons are larger than is typical, almost 50 percent of the wingspan, providing improved control even at slow speeds; the aileron is also split, making it a deceleron.[55][56]
The A-10 is designed to be refueled, rearmed, and serviced with minimal equipment.[57] Its simple design enables maintenance at forward bases with limited facilities.[58][59] An unusual feature is that many of the aircraft's parts are interchangeable between the left and right sides, including the engines, main landing gear, and vertical stabilizers. The sturdy landing gear, low-pressure tires, and large, straight wings allow operation from short rough strips even with a heavy aircraft ordnance load, allowing the aircraft to operate from damaged airbases, flying from taxiways, or even straight roadway sections.[60]
The front landing gear is offset to the aircraft's right to allow placement of the 30 mm cannon with its firing barrel along the centerline of the aircraft.[61] During ground taxi, the offset front landing gear causes the A-10 to have dissimilar turning radii. Turning to the right on the ground takes less distance than turning left.[Note 1] The wheels of the main landing gear partially protrude from their nacelles when retracted, making gear-up belly landings easier to control and less damaging. All landing gears retract forward; if hydraulic power is lost, a combination of gravity and aerodynamic drag can lower and lock the gear in place.[56]
Durability
The A-10 is exceptionally tough, being able to survive direct hits from armor-piercing and high-explosive projectiles up to 23 mm. It has double-redundant hydraulic flight systems, and a mechanical system as a backup if hydraulics are lost. Flight without hydraulic power uses the manual reversion control system; pitch and yaw control engages automatically, roll control is pilot-selected. In manual reversion mode, the A-10 is sufficiently controllable under favorable conditions to return to base, though control forces are greater than normal. The aircraft is designed to be able to fly with one engine, half of the tail, one elevator, and half of a wing missing.[62]
The cockpit and parts of the flight-control systems are protected by 1,200 lb (540 kg) of titanium aircraft armor, referred to as a "bathtub".[63][64] The armor has been tested to withstand strikes from 23 mm cannon fire and some strikes from 57 mm rounds.[59][63] It is made up of titanium plates with thicknesses varying from 0.5 to 1.5 inches (13 to 38 mm) determined by a study of likely trajectories and deflection angles. The armor makes up almost six percent of the aircraft's empty weight. Any interior surface of the tub directly exposed to the pilot is covered by a multi-layer nylon spall shield to protect against shell fragmentation.[65][66] The front windscreen and canopy are resistant to small arms fire.[67]
The A-10's durability was demonstrated on 7 April 2003 when Captain Kim Campbell, while flying over Baghdad during the 2003 invasion of Iraq, suffered extensive flak damage. Iraqi fire damaged one of her engines and crippled the hydraulic system, requiring the aircraft's stabilizer and flight controls to be operated via the 'manual reversion mode.' Despite this damage, Campbell flew the aircraft for nearly an hour and landed safely.[68][69]
The A-10 was intended to fly from forward air bases and semi-prepared runways with a high risk of foreign object damage to the engines. The unusual location of the General Electric TF34-GE-100 turbofan engines decreases ingestion risk and allows the engines to run while the aircraft is serviced and rearmed by ground crews, reducing turn-around time. The wings are also mounted closer to the ground, simplifying servicing and rearming operations. The heavy engines require strong supports: four bolts connect the engine pylons to the airframe.[70] The engines' high 6:1 bypass ratio contributes to a relatively small infrared signature, and their position directs exhaust over the tailplanes further shielding it from detection by infrared homing surface-to-air missiles. The engines' exhaust nozzles are angled nine degrees below horizontal to cancel out the nose-down pitching moment that would otherwise be generated from being mounted above the aircraft's center of gravity and avoid the need to trim the control surfaces to prevent pitching.[70]
To reduce the likelihood of damage to the A-10's fuel system, all four fuel tanks are located near the aircraft's center and are separated from the fuselage; projectiles would need to penetrate the aircraft's skin before reaching a tank's outer skin.[65][66] Compromised fuel transfer lines self-seal; if damage exceeds a tank's self-sealing capabilities, check valves prevent fuel from flowing into a compromised tank. Most fuel system components are inside the tanks so that fuel will not be lost due to component failure. The refueling system is also purged after use.[71] Reticulated polyurethane foam lines both the inner and outer sides of the fuel tanks, retaining debris and restricting fuel spillage in the event of damage. The engines are shielded from the rest of the airframe by firewalls and fire extinguishing equipment. In the event of all four main tanks being lost, two self-sealing sump tanks contain fuel for 230 miles (370 km) of flight.[65][66]
Since the A-10 operates extremely close to enemy positions, where it is an easy target for MANPADS, surface-to-air missiles (SAMs), and enemy fighters, it can carry up to 480 flares and 480 chaff cartridges, which is more than any other fighter, but usually flies with a mix of both.[72]
Weapons
Although the A-10 can carry a considerable amount of munitions, its primary built-in weapon is the 30×173 mm GAU-8/A Avenger autocannon. One of the most powerful aircraft cannons ever flown, it fires large depleted uranium armor-piercing shells. The GAU-8 is a hydraulically driven seven-barrel rotary cannon designed specifically for the anti-tank role with a high rate of fire. The cannon's original design could be switched by the pilot to 2,100 or 4,200 rounds per minute;[73] this was later changed to a fixed rate of 3,900 rounds per minute.[74] The cannon takes about half a second to reach top speed, so 50 rounds are fired during the first second, 65 or 70 rounds per second thereafter. The gun is accurate enough to place 80 percent of its shots within a 40-foot (12.4 m) diameter circle from 4,000 feet (1,220 m) while in flight.[75] The GAU-8 is optimized for a slant range of 4,000 feet (1,220 m) with the A-10 in a 30-degree dive.[76]
Front view of the A-10's GAU-8 installation
The fuselage of the aircraft is built around the cannon. The GAU-8/A is mounted slightly to the port side; the barrel in the firing location is on the starboard side at the 9 o'clock position so it is aligned with the aircraft's centerline. The gun's 5-foot, 11.5-inch (1.816 m) ammunition drum can hold up to 1,350 rounds of 30 mm ammunition,[61] but generally holds 1,174 rounds.[76] To protect the GAU-8/A rounds from enemy fire, armor plates of differing thicknesses between the aircraft skin and the drum are designed to detonate incoming shells.[61][66]
The AGM-65 Maverick air-to-surface missile is a commonly used munition for the A-10, targeted via electro-optical (TV-guided) or infrared. The Maverick allows target engagement at much greater ranges than the cannon, and thus less risk from anti-aircraft systems. During Desert Storm, in the absence of dedicated forward-looking infrared (FLIR) cameras for night vision, the Maverick's infrared camera was used for night missions as a "poor man's FLIR".[77] Other weapons include cluster bombs and Hydra rocket pods.[78] The A-10 is equipped to carry GPS and laser-guided bombs, such as the GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb, Paveway series bombs, JDAM, WCMD and glide bomb AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapon.[79] A-10s usually fly with an ALQ-131 ECM pod under one wing and two AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles under the other wing for self-defense.[80]
Modernization
The A-10 Precision Engagement Modification Program from 2006 to 2010 updated all A-10 and OA-10 aircraft in the fleet to the A-10C standard with a new flight computer, new glass cockpit displays and controls, two new 5.5-inch (140 mm) color displays with moving map function, and an integrated digital stores management system.[18][43][44][81]
Since then, the A-10 Common Fleet Initiative has led to further improvements: a new wing design, a new data link, the ability to employ smart weapons such as the Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) and Wind Corrected Munitions Dispenser, as well as the newer GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb, and the ability to carry an integrated targeting pod such as the Northrop Grumman LITENING or the Lockheed Martin Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod (ATP). Also included is the Remotely Operated Video Enhanced Receiver (ROVER) to provide sensor data to personnel on the ground.[43] The A-10C has a Missile Warning System (MWS), which alerts the pilot to whenever there is a missile launch, friendly or non-friendly. The A-10C can also carry an ALQ-184 ECM Pod, which works with the MWS to detect a missile launch, figure out what kind of vehicle is launching the missile or flak (i.e.: SAM, aircraft, flak, MANPAD, etc.), and then jams it with confidential emitting, and selects a countermeasure program that the pilot has pre-set, that when turned on, will automatically dispense flare and chaff at pre-set intervals and amounts.[82]
Colors and markings
Since the A-10 flies low to the ground and at subsonic speed, aircraft camouflage is important to make the aircraft more difficult to see. Many different types of paint schemes have been tried. These have included a "peanut scheme" of sand, yellow, and field drab; black and white colors for winter operations, and a tan, green, and brown mixed pattern.[83] Many A-10s also featured a false canopy painted in dark gray on the underside of the aircraft, just behind the gun. This form of automimicry is an attempt to confuse the enemy as to aircraft attitude and maneuver direction.[84][85] Many A-10s feature nose art, such as shark mouth or warthog head features.
The two most common markings applied to the A-10 have been the European I woodland camouflage scheme and a two-tone gray scheme. The European woodland scheme was designed to minimize visibility from above, as the threat from hostile fighter aircraft was felt to outweigh that from ground-fire. It uses dark green, medium green, and dark gray in order to blend in with the typical European forest terrain and was used from the 1980s to the early 1990s. Following the end of the Cold War, and based on experience during the 1991 Gulf War, the air-to-air threat was no longer seen to be as important as that from ground fire, and a new color scheme known as "Compass Ghost" was chosen to minimize visibility from below. This two-tone gray scheme has darker gray color on top, with the lighter gray on the underside of the aircraft, and started to be applied from the early 1990s.[86]
Operational history
Entering service
The first unit to receive the A-10 Thunderbolt II was the 355th Tactical Training Wing, based at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, in March 1976.[87] The first unit to achieve full combat-readiness was the 354th Tactical Fighter Wing at Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, South Carolina, in October 1977.[1] Deployments of A-10As followed at bases both at home and abroad, including England AFB, Louisiana; Eielson AFB, Alaska; Osan Air Base, South Korea; and RAF Bentwaters/RAF Woodbridge, England. The 81st TFW of RAF Bentwaters/RAF Woodbridge operated rotating detachments of A-10s at four bases in Germany known as Forward Operating Locations (FOLs): Leipheim, Sembach Air Base, Nörvenich Air Base, and RAF Ahlhorn.[88]
A-10s were initially an unwelcome addition to many in the Air Force. Most pilots switching to the A-10 did not want to because fighter pilots traditionally favored speed and appearance.[89] In 1987, many A-10s were shifted to the forward air control (FAC) role and redesignated OA-10.[90] In the FAC role, the OA-10 is typically equipped with up to six pods of 2.75 inch (70 mm) Hydra rockets, usually with smoke or white phosphorus warheads used for target marking. OA-10s are physically unchanged and remain fully combat capable despite the redesignation.[91]
A-10s of the 23rd TFW were deployed to Bridgetown, Barbados during Operation Urgent Fury, the American Invasion of Grenada. They provided air cover for the U.S. Marine Corps landings on the island of Carriacou in late October 1983, but did not fire weapons as Marines met no resistance.[92][93][94]
Gulf War and Balkans
The A-10 was used in combat for the first time during the Gulf War in 1991, destroying more than 900 Iraqi tanks, 2,000 other military vehicles, and 1,200 artillery pieces.[10] A-10s also shot down two Iraqi helicopters with the GAU-8 cannon. The first of these was shot down by Captain Robert Swain over Kuwait on 6 February 1991 for the A-10's first air-to-air victory.[95][96] Four A-10s were shot down during the war by surface-to-air missiles. Another two battle-damaged A-10s and OA-10As returned to base and were written off. Some sustained additional damage in crash landings.[97][98] The A-10 had a mission-capable rate of 95.7 percent, flew 8,100 sorties, and launched 90 percent of the AGM-65 Maverick missiles fired in the conflict.[99] Shortly after the Gulf War, the Air Force abandoned the idea of replacing the A-10 with a close air support version of the F-16.[100]
U.S. Air Force A-10 aircraft fired approximately 10,000 30 mm rounds in Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1994–95. Following the seizure of some heavy weapons by Bosnian Serbs from a warehouse in Ilidža, a series of sorties were launched to locate and destroy the captured equipment. On 5 August 1994, two A-10s located and strafed an anti-tank vehicle. Afterward, the Serbs agreed to return remaining heavy weapons.[101] In August 1995, NATO launched an offensive called Operation Deliberate Force. A-10s flew close air support missions, attacking Bosnian Serb artillery and positions. In late September, A-10s began flying patrols again.[102]
A-10s returned to the Balkan region as part of Operation Allied Force in Kosovo beginning in March 1999.[102] In March 1999, A-10s escorted and supported search and rescue helicopters in finding a downed F-117 pilot.[103] The A-10s were deployed to support search and rescue missions, but over time the Warthogs began to receive more ground attack missions. The A-10's first successful attack in Operation Allied Force happened on 6 April 1999; A-10s remained in action until combat ended in late June 1999.[104]
Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, and recent deployments
During the 2001 invasion of Afghanistan, the A-10s did not take part in the initial stages. For the campaign against Taliban and Al Qaeda, A-10 squadrons were deployed to Pakistan and Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, beginning in March 2002. These A-10s participated in Operation Anaconda. Afterward, A-10s remained in-country, fighting Taliban and Al Qaeda remnants.[105]
Operation Iraqi Freedom began on 20 March 2003. Sixty OA-10/A-10 aircraft took part in early combat there.[106] The United States Air Forces Central Command issued Operation Iraqi Freedom: By the Numbers, a declassified report about the aerial campaign in the conflict on 30 April 2003. During that initial invasion of Iraq, A-10s had a mission capable rate of 85 percent in the war and fired 311,597 rounds of 30 mm ammunition. A single A-10 was shot down near Baghdad International Airport by Iraqi fire late in the campaign. The A-10 also flew 32 missions in which the aircraft dropped propaganda leaflets over Iraq.[107]
In September 2007, the A-10C with the Precision Engagement Upgrade reached initial operating capability.[81] The A-10C first deployed to Iraq in 2007 with the 104th Fighter Squadron of the Maryland Air National Guard.[108] The A-10C's digital avionics and communications systems have greatly reduced the time to acquire a close air support target and attack it.[109]
A-10s flew 32 percent of combat sorties in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom. The sorties ranged from 27,800 to 34,500 annually between 2009 and 2012. In the first half of 2013, they flew 11,189 sorties in Afghanistan.[110] From the beginning of 2006 to October 2013, A-10s conducted 19 percent of CAS missions in Iraq and Afghanistan, more than the F-15E Strike Eagle and B-1B Lancer, but less than the 33 percent flown by F-16s.[111]
In March 2011, six A-10s were deployed as part of Operation Odyssey Dawn, the coalition intervention in Libya. They participated in attacks on Libyan ground forces there.[112][113]
The USAF 122nd Fighter Wing revealed it would deploy to the Middle East in October 2014 with 12 of the unit's 21 A-10 aircraft. Although the deployment had been planned a year in advance in a support role, the timing coincided with the ongoing Operation Inherent Resolve against ISIL militants.[114][115][116] From mid-November, U.S. commanders began sending A-10s to hit IS targets in central and northwestern Iraq on an almost daily basis.[117][118] In about two months time, A-10s flew 11 percent of all USAF sorties since the start of operations in August 2014.[119] On 15 November 2015, two days after the ISIL attacks in Paris, A-10s and AC-130s destroyed a convoy of over 100 ISIL-operated oil tanker trucks in Syria. The attacks were part of an intensification of the U.S.-led intervention against ISIL called Operation Tidal Wave II (named after Operation Tidal Wave during World War II, a failed attempt to raid German oil fields) in an attempt to cut off oil smuggling as a source of funding for the group.[120]
On 19 January 2018, 12 A-10s from the 303d Expeditionary Fighter Squadron were deployed to Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, to provide close-air support, marking the first time in more than three years A-10s had been deployed to Afghanistan.[121]
Future
The future of the platform remains the subject of debate. In 2007, the USAF expected the A-10 to remain in service until 2028 and possibly later,[122] when it would likely be replaced by the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II.[38] However, critics have said that replacing the A-10 with the F-35 would be a "giant leap backwards" given the A-10's performance and the F-35's high costs.[123] In 2012, the Air Force considered the F-35B STOVL variant as a replacement CAS aircraft, but concluded that the aircraft could not generate sufficient sorties.[124] In August 2013, Congress and the Air Force examined various proposals, including the F-35 and the MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicle filling the A-10's role. Proponents state that the A-10's armor and cannon are superior to aircraft such as the F-35 for ground attack, that guided munitions other planes rely upon could be jammed, and that ground commanders frequently request A-10 support.[110]
In the USAF's FY 2015 budget, the service considered retiring the A-10 and other single-mission aircraft, prioritizing multi-mission aircraft; cutting a whole fleet and its infrastructure was seen as the only method for major savings. The U.S. Army had expressed interest in obtaining some A-10s should the Air Force retire them,[125][126] but later stated there was "no chance" of that happening.[127] The U.S. Air Force stated that retirement would save $3.7 billion from 2015 to 2019. The prevalence of guided munitions allow more aircraft to perform the CAS mission and reduces the requirement for specialized aircraft; since 2001 multirole aircraft and bombers have performed 80 percent of operational CAS missions. The Air Force also said that the A-10 was more vulnerable to advanced anti-aircraft defenses, but the Army replied that the A-10 had proved invaluable because of its versatile weapons loads, psychological impact, and limited logistics needs on ground support systems.[128]
In January 2015, USAF officials told lawmakers that it would take 15 years to fully develop a new attack aircraft to replace the A-10;[129] that year General Herbert J. Carlisle, the head of Air Combat Command, stated that a follow-on weapon system for the A-10 may need to be developed.[130] It planned for F-16s and F-15Es to initially take up CAS sorties, and later by the F-35A once sufficient numbers become operationally available over the next decade.[131] In July 2015, Boeing held initial discussions on the prospects of selling retired or stored A-10s in near-flyaway condition to international customers.[42] However, the Air Force then said that it would not permit the aircraft to be sold.[132]
Plans to develop a replacement aircraft were announced by the US Air Combat Command in August 2015.[133][134] Early the following year, the Air Force began studying future CAS aircraft to succeed the A-10 in low-intensity "permissive conflicts" like counterterrorism and regional stability operations, admitting that the F-35 would be too expensive to operate in day-to-day roles. A wide range of platforms were under consideration, including everything from low-end AT-6 Wolverine and A-29 Super Tucano turboprops and the Textron AirLand Scorpion as more basic off-the-shelf options to more sophisticated clean-sheet attack aircraft or "AT-X" derivatives of the T-X next-generation trainer as entirely new attack platforms.[131][135][136]
In January 2016, the USAF was "indefinitely freezing" plans to retire the A-10 for at least several years. In addition to Congressional opposition, its use in anti-ISIL operations, deployments to Eastern Europe as a response to Russia's military intervention in Ukraine, and reevaluation of F-35 numbers necessitated its retention.[137][138] In February 2016, the Air Force deferred the final retirement of the aircraft until 2022 after being replaced by F-35s on a squadron-by-squadron basis.[139][140] In October 2016, the Air Force Material Command brought the depot maintenance line back to full capacity in preparation for re-winging the fleet.[141] In June 2017, it was announced that the aircraft "...will now be kept in the air force’s inventory indefinitely."[142][5]
Other uses
On 25 March 2010, an A-10 conducted the first flight of an aircraft with all engines powered by a biofuel blend. The flight, performed at Eglin Air Force Base, used a 1:1 blend of JP-8 and Camelina-based fuel.[143] On 28 June 2012, the A-10 became the first aircraft to fly using a new fuel blend derived from alcohol; known as ATJ (Alcohol-to-Jet), the fuel is cellulosic-based and can be produced using wood, paper, grass, or any cellulose based material, which are fermented into alcohols before being hydro-processed into aviation fuel. ATJ is the third alternative fuel to be evaluated by the Air Force as a replacement for the petroleum-derived JP-8 fuel. Previous types were a synthetic paraffinic kerosene derived from coal and natural gas and a bio-mass fuel derived from plant-oils and animal fats known as Hydroprocessed Renewable Jet.[144]
In 2011, the National Science Foundation granted $11 million to modify an A-10 for weather research for CIRPAS at the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School[145] and in collaboration with scientists from the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology (SDSM&T),[146] replacing SDSM&T's retired North American T-28 Trojan.[147] The A-10's armor is expected to allow it to survive the extreme meteorological conditions, such as 200 mph hailstorms, found in inclement high-altitude weather events.[148]
Variants
YA-10A
Pre-production variant. 12 were built.[149]
A-10A
Single-seat close air support, ground-attack production version.
OA-10A
A-10As used for airborne forward air control.
YA-10B Night/Adverse Weather (N/AW)
Two-seat experimental prototype, for work at night and in bad weather. The one YA-10B prototype was converted from an A-10A.[150][151]
A-10C
A-10As updated under the incremental Precision Engagement (PE) program.[43]
A-10PCAS
Proposed unmanned version developed by Raytheon and Aurora Flight Sciences as part of DARPA's Persistent Close Air Support program.[152] The PCAS program eventually dropped the idea of using an optionally manned A-10.[153]
Civilian A-10
Proposed by the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology to replace its North American T-28 Trojan thunderstorm penetration aircraft. The A-10 would have its military engines, avionics, and oxygen system replaced by civilian versions. The engines and airframe would receive protection from hail, and the GAU-8 Avenger would be replaced with ballast or scientific instruments.[154]
Operators
The A-10 has been flown exclusively by the United States Air Force and its Air Reserve components, the Air Force Reserve Command (AFRC) and the Air National Guard (ANG). As of 2017, 282 A-10C aircraft are reported as operational, divided as follows: 141 USAF, 55 AFRC, 86 ANG.[155]
United States
United States Air Force
Air Force Materiel Command
514th Flight Test Squadron (Hill AFB, Utah) (1993-)
23rd Wing
74th Fighter Squadron (Moody AFB, Georgia) (1980-1992, 1996-)
75th Fighter Squadron (Moody AFB, Georgia) (1980-1991, 1992-)
51st Fighter Wing
25th Fighter Squadron (Osan AFB, South Korea) (1982-1989, 1993-)
53d Wing
422d Test and Evaluation Squadron (Nellis AFB, Nevada) (1977-)
57th Wing
66th Weapons Squadron (Nellis AFB, Nevada) (1977-1981, 2003-)
96th Test Wing
40th Flight Test Squadron (Eglin AFB, Florida) (1982-)
122nd Fighter Wing (Indiana ANG)
163d Fighter Squadron (Fort Wayne ANGS, Indiana) (2010-)
124th Fighter Wing (Idaho ANG)
190th Fighter Squadron (Gowen Field ANGB, Idaho) (1996-)
127th Wing (Michigan ANG)
107th Fighter Squadron (Selfridge ANGB, Michigan) (2008-)
175th Wing (Maryland ANG)
104th Fighter Squadron (Warfield ANGB, Maryland) (1979-)
355th Fighter Wing
354th Fighter Squadron (Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona) (1979-1982, 1991-)
357th Fighter Squadron (Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona) (1979-)
442nd Fighter Wing (AFRC)
303d Fighter Squadron (Whiteman AFB, Missouri) (1982-)
476th Fighter Group (AFRC)
76th Fighter Squadron (Moody AFB, Georgia) (1981-1992, 2009-)
495th Fighter Group (AFRC)
358th Fighter Squadron (Whiteman AFB, Missouri) (1979-2014, 2015-)
924th Fighter Group (AFRC)
45th Fighter Squadron (Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona) (1981-1994, 2009-)
47th Fighter Squadron (Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona) (1980-)
926th Wing (AFRC)
706th Fighter Squadron (Davis-Monthan AFB, Arizona) (1982-1992, 1997-)
Former squadrons
18th Tactical Fighter Squadron (1982-1991)
23d Tactical Air Support Squadron (1987-1991) (OA-10 unit)
55th Tactical Fighter Squadron (1994-1996)
70th Fighter Squadron (1995-2000)
78th Tactical Fighter Squadron (1979-1992)
81st Fighter Squadron (1994-2013)
91st Tactical Fighter Squadron (1978-1992)
92d Tactical Fighter Squadron (1978-1993)
103d Fighter Squadron (Pennsylvania ANG) (1988-2011) (OA-10 unit)
118th Fighter Squadron (Connecticut ANG) (1979-2008)
131st Fighter Squadron (Massachusetts ANG) (1979-2007)
138th Fighter Squadron (New York ANG) (1979-1989)
172d Fighter Squadron (Michigan ANG) (1991-2009)
176th Tactical Fighter Squadron (Wisconsin ANG) (1981-1993)
184th Fighter Squadron (Arkansas ANG) (2007-2014)
353d Tactical Fighter Squadron (1978-1992)
355th Tactical Fighter Squadron (1978-1992, 1993–2007)
356th Tactical Fighter Squadron (1977-1992)[156]
509th Tactical Fighter Squadron (1979-1992)
510th Tactical Fighter Squadron (1979-1994)
511th Tactical Fighter Squadron (1980-1992)
Aircraft on display
Germany
A-10A
77-0264 – Spangdahlem AB, Bitburg[157]
South Korea
A-10A
76-0515 – Osan AB[158]
United Kingdom
A-10A
77-0259 – American Air Museum at Imperial War Museum Duxford[159]
80-0219 – Bentwaters Cold War Museum[160]
United States
YA-10A
71-1370 – Joint Base Langley-Eustis (Langley AFB), Hampton, Virginia[161]
YA-10B
73-1664 – Air Force Flight Test Center Museum, Edwards AFB, California[162]
A-10A
73-1666 – Hill Aerospace Museum, Hill AFB, Utah[163]
73-1667 – Flying Tiger Heritage Park at the former England AFB, Louisiana[164]
75-0263 – Empire State Aerosciences Museum, Glenville, New York[165]
75-0270 – McChord Air Museum, McChord AFB, Washington[166]
75-0293 – Wings of Eagles Discovery Center, Elmira, New York[167]
75-0288 – Air Force Armament Museum, Eglin AFB, Florida[168]
75-0289 – Heritage Park, Eielson AFB, Alaska[169]
75-0298 – Pima Air & Space Museum (adjacent to Davis-Monthan AFB), Tucson, Arizona[170]
75-0305 – Museum of Aviation, Robins AFB, Warner Robins, Georgia[171]
75-0308 – Moody Heritage Park, Moody AFB, Valdosta, Georgia[172]
75-0309 – Shaw AFB, Sumter, South Carolina. Marked as AF Ser. No. 81-0964 assigned to the 55 FS from 1994 to 1996. The represented aircraft was credited with downing an Iraqi Mi-8 Hip helicopter on 15 Feb 1991 while assigned to the 511 TFS.[173][174]
76-0516 – Wings of Freedom Aviation Museum at the former NAS Willow Grove, Horsham, Pennsylvania[175]
76-0530 – Whiteman AFB, Missouri[176]
76-0535 – Cradle of Aviation, Garden City, New York[177]
76-0540 – Aerospace Museum of California, McClellan Airport (former McClellan AFB), Sacramento, California[178]
77-0199 – Stafford Air & Space Museum, Weatherford, Oklahoma
77-0205 – USAF Academy collection, Colorado Springs, Colorado[179]
77-0228 – Grissom Air Museum, Grissom ARB (former Grissom AFB), Peru, Indiana[180]
77-0244 – Wisconsin Air National Guard Museum, Volk Field ANGB, Wisconsin[181]
77-0252 – Cradle of Aviation, Garden City, New York (nose section only)[182]
77-0667 – England AFB Heritage Park, Alexandria, Louisiana[183]
78-0681 – National Museum of the United States Air Force, Wright-Patterson AFB, Dayton, Ohio[184]
78-0687 – Don F. Pratt Memorial Museum, Fort Campbell, Kentucky[185]
79-0097 – Warbird Park, former Myrtle Beach Air Force Base, South Carolina[186]
79-0100 – Barnes Air National Guard Base, Westfield, Massachusetts[187]
79-0103 – Bradley Air National Guard Base, Windsor Locks, Connecticut[188]
79-0116 – Warrior Park, Davis-Monthan AFB, Tucson, Arizona[189]
79-0173 – New England Air Museum, Windsor Locks, Connecticut[190]
80-0247 – American Airpower Museum, Republic Airport, Farmingdale, New York[191]
80-0708 – Selfridge Military Air Museum, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Harrison Township, Michigan[192]
Specifications (A-10A)
Data from The Great Book of Modern Warplanes,[193] Fairchild-Republic A/OA-10,[194] USAF[81]
General characteristics
Crew: 1
Length: 53 ft 4 in (16.26 m)
Wingspan: 57 ft 6 in (17.53 m)
Height: 14 ft 8 in (4.47 m)
Wing area: 506 ft2 (47.0 m2)
Airfoil: NACA 6716 root, NACA 6713 tip
Empty weight: 24,959 lb (11,321 kg)
Loaded weight: 30,384 lb (13,782 kg)
CAS mission: 47,094 lb (21,361 kg)
Anti-armor mission: 42,071 lb (19,083 kg)
Max. takeoff weight: 50,000 lb[195] (22,700 kg)
Internal fuel capacity: 11,000 lb (4,990 kg)
Powerplant: 2 × General Electric TF34-GE-100A turbofans, 9,065 lbf (40.32 kN) each
Performance
Maximum speed: 381 knots (439 mph, 706 km/h) at sea level, clean[194]
Cruise speed: 300 knots (340 mph, 560 km/h)
Stall speed: 120 knots (138 mph, 220 km/h) [196]
Never exceed speed: 450 knots (518 mph,[194] 833 km/h) at 5,000 ft (1,500 m) with 18 Mk 82 bombs[197]
Combat radius:
CAS mission: 250 nmi (288 mi, 460 km at 1.88 hour loiter at 5,000 ft (1,500 m), 10 min combat
Anti-armor mission: 252 nmi (290 mi, 467 km), 40 nmi (45 mi, 75 km)) sea-level penetration and exit, 30 min combat
Ferry range: 2,240 nmi (2,580 mi, 4,150 km) with 50 knot (55 mph, 90 km/h) headwinds, 20 minutes reserve
Service ceiling: 45,000 ft (13,700 m)
Rate of climb: 6,000 ft/min (30 m/s)
Wing loading: 99 lb/ft2 (482 kg/m2)
Thrust/weight: 0.36
Armament
Guns: 1× 30 mm (1.18 in) GAU-8/A Avenger rotary cannon with 1,174 rounds (original capacity was 1,350 rd)
Hardpoints: 11 (8× under-wing and 3× under-fuselage pylon stations) with a capacity of 16,000 lb (7,260 kg) and provisions to carry combinations of:
Rockets:
4× LAU-61/LAU-68 rocket pods (each with 19×/7× Hydra 70 mm/APKWS[198] rockets, respectively)
6x LAU-131 rocket pods (each with 7x Hydra 70 rockets)[199][200]
Missiles:
2× AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles for self-defense
6× AGM-65 Maverick air-to-surface missiles
Bombs:
Mark 80 series of unguided iron bombs or
Mk 77 incendiary bombs or
BLU-1, BLU-27/B, CBU-20 Rockeye II, BL755[201] and CBU-52/58/71/87/89/97 cluster bombs or
Paveway series of Laser-guided bombs or
Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) (A-10C)[202] or
Wind Corrected Munitions Dispenser (A-10C)
Other:
SUU-42A/A Flares/Infrared decoys and chaff dispenser pod or
AN/ALQ-131 or AN/ALQ-184 ECM pods or
Lockheed Martin Sniper XR or LITENING targeting pods (A-10C) or
2× 600 US gal (2,300 L) Sargent Fletcher drop tanks for increased range/loitering time.
Avionics
AN/AAS-35(V) Pave Penny laser tracker pod[203] (mounted beneath right side of cockpit) for use with Paveway LGBs (currently the Pave Penny is no longer in use)
Head-up display (HUD)[31]
Notable appearances in media
Main article: Aircraft in fiction § A-10 Thunderbolt II
Nicknames
The A-10 Thunderbolt II received its popular nickname "Warthog" from the pilots and crews of the USAF attack squadrons who flew and maintained it. The A-10 is the last of Republic's jet attack aircraft to serve with the USAF. The Republic F-84 Thunderjet was nicknamed the "Hog", F-84F Thunderstreak nicknamed "Superhog", and the Republic F-105 Thunderchief tagged "Ultra Hog".[204] The saying Go Ugly Early has been associated with the aircraft in reference to calling in the A-10 early to support troops in ground combat.[205]
See also
Craig D. Button – USAF pilot who crashed mysteriously in an A-10
190th Fighter Squadron, Blues and Royals friendly fire incident
1988 Remscheid A-10 crash
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration, and era
Ilyushin Il-102
Northrop YA-9
Sukhoi Su-25
Related lists
List of attack aircraft
List of active United States military aircraft
References
Notes
With the inner wheel on a turn stopped, the minimum radius of the turn is dictated by the distance between the inner wheel and the nose wheel. Since the distance is less between the right main wheel and the nose gear than the same measurement on the left, the aircraft can turn more tightly to the right.
In Life There Is Time For Everything,,,The Worst Thing That Happens Is Many Do Not Know How To Allot It... Prioritize It,,,And Spend Time On Creativity & Selfless Service To Less Privileged.
So Dear Friends , NOW Is The THE TIME To Enjoy And Share Your JOY Especially With People Who
Need Your Attention And Assistance.
Re-arranged and prioritized Star Wars IKEA Billy Bookcases
Kenner - Return of the Jedi and Hasbro - non-Original Trilogy Black Series re-arranged and prioritized
In June 2020, after experiencing a devastating spring due to COVID, New York State announced that certain businesses could begin partially opening again. New York City’s response included a program called Open Restaurants, which allowed restaurants to use sidewalks and parking spaces for outdoor, socially distant dining. Owners quickly built temporary enclosures in the streets in front of their businesses to try and recover from months of shutdown. Small stretches of Brooklyn in early 2021 display the variety and feel of these enclosures. Hopefully, the Open Restaurants initiative will help these businesses to survive and may even lead to a more permanent reorienting of streets to prioritize people over cars.
" Within the confines of boundaries, the essence of beauty and self-worth unfolds. Embrace the limits, for within them, you discover your true radiance."
___ Scarlett Saphira
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. . . Femdom Tale . . .
Chapter - The Consequences of Unclear Boundaries
The life of Mistess who fails to maintain her own boundaries.
Boundary:
☑ Not clear
☑ Not strong
☑ Not strict
If these three things happen, men will realize that there are 'no boundaries' because men's brains tend to prefer processing information by grouping and evaluating things based on their overall composition rather than thinking separately in details.
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Perception:
☑ Insult / Looking down
☑ Disrespect
☑ Crossing your lines
When women don't set clear boundaries, it means they 'lack' a standpoint. No boundaries suggest a 'lack' of value, wisdom, and a compelling reason for a man to surrender, sacrifice, and show respect.
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Boundless = Worthless:
He will lose interest in chasing your game and instead make you play his game.
This is the root of these issues
☑ a sub who has power and control the game from below
☑ a sub domming from the bottom
She has to follow his game to gain acceptance, to be worthy of his love, to merit his flattery, to deserve his sweet words, to earn the title 'my Mistress,' 'my Queen,' 'my Princess', ' My dear Miss.' To be a perfect Miss for him, meeting all HIS standards.
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Become your submissive's beloved pet:
☑ Be loyal only to him, Be faithful, Wait him at home.
☑ Must not create problems, must have reasons, must listen to him, must always be available for him.
☑ Must be gorgeous and beautiful in the way they define Miss's beauty.
☑ Must control your emotions for him, must respect all his boundaries, and must support his sensitivity and insecurity as he instructs. Follow his guidance because he knows himself the best; you don't have that understanding, so it's essential to listen and act in a way that promotes his emotional well-being to maintain a healthy relationship with him.
☑ Never cross his lines to show that you are mature, can reason well, and have enough maturity to be his proper Miss (while all your boundaries are disrespectfully crossed daily by him).
He will make you believe that your boundaries are selfish. Starting from the fact that your boundaries were unclear, not strong, not strict, to the point where there were hardly any.
Now, he has brought it to the point where you feel 'guilty' if you dare to establish them in your relationship. You will no longer dare to set boundaries because you want to be a good, decent Miss for him.
" Making his Miss feel guilty and preventing her from daring to do what makes him irritated or unhappy without considering fairness is 'abuse.' In a Femdom relationship, you should not be the one receiving abuse, it should be you who gives it to him.
A man who fails to respect your boundaries attempts to overstep them, convincing you that this is an adjustment you, as a woman, should make in your life. However, you should firmly deny and clearly define your boundaries without caring whether you will have him in your life or not."
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Prioritizing Boundaries:
" The important thing is not to manage or judge whether he intends to or not, or whether he can be taught or changed. Whether disrespect is intentional or unintentional, it doesn't change the fact that it occurred. Mostly, the main core is because of his personality.
It's more important to know your boundaries, be brave enough to communicate and stand up for your boundaries, and courageously accept the reality if he can't respect them. Remove yourself from men like that with the belief that there is someone out there ready to respect you. You just have to find that person."
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Handling a Man Who Ignores Your Boundaries:
Queen: How Queens Handle Disrespectful Subs?
☑ Punishment (don't care, don't ask for his consent)
☑ Banishment
☑ Beheading
" A queen's response to disrespect is to promptly remove or banish those kinds of men from her life."
Miss Boss: How Miss Bosss Handle Disrespectful Subs?
☑ Punishment (explaining his faults, making him understand his wrongdoing)
☑ Strict with her boundaries and in control
☑ Teaches him to respect
" The real power lies in 'not caring' about others more than your own self and needs. "
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Miss Boss or a Real Queen
Perspective gives us the ability to accurately contrast the large with the small, and the important with the less important. Without it we are lost in a world where all ideas, news and information look the same. We cannot differentiate, we cannot prioritize as we cannot make good choices without perspective.
A legacy of its military origins, the load-lifter's cockpit is cramped due a design that prioritized pilot survivability above all else.
CSX Q409-26 charges through Flintmine Road in Coxsackie, New York. Q409 is a manifest originating in Selkirk (SK) and terminates in Waycross, GA. This train is no straight-shot job from point-to-point, but is one of the least prioritized trains on the system, as it usually works multiple locations from start to end. This train can end up working South Kearny, NJ, Philadelphia, PA, Baltimore, MD, Richmond, VA, Collier, VA, and Charleston, SC. These are all not worked by Q409, but more so as needed depending on location as this train runs every day.
A rebuilt SD70MACe and ex-SBD and now rebuilt SD40-3 are seen in tow together, originally coming from Q634-24, a manifest from Parson's Yard in Columbus, OH, with the SD70 leading coming from the Mohawk, and onto the Selkirk Subdivisions into Q634's termination point of SK. The power was then dropped and put into the yard, which got slated for this Q409 which got capped by this ES44AC GEVO, a common site now with PSR in effect. With the reassembled power and the train put together, Q409-26's first of many crews takes the train south, seen here on it's first leg crawling on the River Subdivision.
July 18, 2023 The Hill Live brings together caregivers, patients, clinical experts, and lawmakers to answer these questions and more as we discuss the fight against Alzheimer’s and breakthroughs in providing relief to those who suffer from agitation and aggression.
Alzheimer’s disease affects about 55 million people worldwide, including 6.5 million Americans, and has no cure. Some patients with Alzheimer’s sometimes show signs of extreme aggression or become restless and anxious as their brains lose the ability to negotiate with new stimulus.
Agitation is a common neuropsychiatric symptom in Alzheimer’s dementia and one of the most complex and stressful aspects of caring for people living with the condition. It is reported in approximately half of people with Alzheimer’s dementia and is associated with earlier alternative living placement.
What do patients, caregivers and families navigating the complexities of agitation associated with Alzheimer’s need to know? How are researchers and doctors better understanding risk factors and diagnoses? What policy actions can prioritize research, detection and treatment? And what are the access considerations for patients and their caregivers as they navigate this difficult symptom?
LOCATION
National Press Club Holeman Lounge, 529 14th St. NW, 13th Floor, Washington, DC 20045
The year 1936 brought forth an automotive gem, the Ford Model 68, a vehicle that not only captured the essence of its era but also pushed the boundaries of design and innovation. Born from the storied assembly lines of the Ford Motor Company, this classic car emerged during a time when America was finding its footing after the Great Depression. As a testament to resilience and forward-thinking, the Model 68 showcased Henry Ford's commitment to affordable yet stylish transportation for the masses. One particularly intriguing fact about this model is that it was among the first to offer a glimpse into streamlined design, which would dominate the automotive industry in the years to come.
Design and Innovation: A Blend of Style and Substance
The exterior of the 1936 Ford Model 68 exuded elegance with its teardrop-shaped headlamps and a bold, v-shaped grille that commanded attention. The car's sleek lines and rounded fenders were a departure from the boxy shapes of earlier models, hinting at the aerodynamic future of automobile design. Inside, owners were greeted with an interior that prioritized simplicity and functionality without compromising on quality. Luxurious touches like mohair upholstery and wood-grain accents spoke volumes about the craftsmanship of the era. Technologically, the Model 68 stood out with its flathead V8 engine, a marvel that offered unprecedented power and reliability to everyday drivers. Color options ranged from Washington Blue to Cordoba Tan, with many buyers favoring darker hues that accentuated the car's sophisticated silhouette. Available in various body styles including coupes, sedans, convertibles, and even wood-paneled station wagons known as "Woodies," it was the Deluxe Roadster that often stole hearts with its irresistible blend of performance and panache.
Performance-wise, the 1936 Ford Model 68 was no slouch. Its V8 engine could propel it to top speeds that were impressive for its time, while acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved in a manner that could best be described as spirited for a pre-war car. On various driving conditions, from bumpy rural roads to newly paved highways, the Model 68 handled with poise and assurance. Drivers often reveled in the throaty rumble of the flathead V8 as they navigated through their journeys, enjoying a tactile connection with their machine that modern vehicles struggle to replicate.
The 1936 Ford Model 68 stands as more than just another vintage vehicle; it is a symbol of innovation during times of adversity and a precursor to modern automotive design philosophies. Its legacy is etched into history books and continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts around the globe who are captivated by its story and enamored by its character.
SILENT REVOLUTION - SYMBOL - Rovingian Council by Daniel Arrhakis (2026)
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Rovingian Council - The Silent Revolution
The philosophy of the Rovingian Council's "silent revolution" describes a model of metapolitical resistance, where the focus of change shifts from the collective to the individual. By prioritizing internal dominance over external institutional conflict, this framework suggests that systemic power becomes obsolete when it no longer finds anchorage in the psychology of the governed.
Central Mechanisms of the Silent Revolution
- Decoupling of Systems: Through Immunity through Integrity, the individual ceases to provide the "emotional fuel" (fear or submission) necessary for the functioning of hierarchical structures.
- Incremental Subversion: The Discreet Approach avoids the "rebound effect" of violent revolutions, which often replace one tyranny with another, promoting instead a gradual and irreversible cultural change through personal conduct.
- Psychological Neutrality: Active indifference serves as a defensive barrier; By refusing to participate in the dialectic of hatred or polarization, the individual deprives the systemic control mechanisms of their influence.
- Ethical Infrastructure: Applied Humanism and Practical Equality transfer values from the abstract to the physical. These practices create parallel social microstructures based on sharing and protection, instead of competition and segregation.
- Intellectual Autonomy/Sovereignty of Conscience: The defense of freedom of thought serves as the last and impenetrable bastion against totalitarian control and external propaganda.
Ultimately, this philosophy posits that a decentralized revolution is inevitable if a sufficient number of individuals achieve individual coherence, autonomy, and Sovereignty of Conscience, given that a system cannot govern a population that has collectively recovered its internal authority.
The Rovingian Council proposes that the best way to combat the shadows of totalitarianism and the oppression of reason is through the strengthening of the individual spirit. When the individual is sovereign and peaceful, the authoritarian system loses its ability to control them through fear.
____________________________________________________
Conselho Rovingiano - A Revolução Silenciosa
A filosofia da revolução silenciosa do Conselho Rovingiano descreve um modelo de resistência metapolítica, onde o foco da mudança se desloca do coletivo para o indivíduo. Ao priorizar a dominância interna em detrimento do conflito institucional externo, esta estrutura sugere que o poder sistémico se torna obsoleto quando deixa de encontrar ancoragem na psicologia dos governados.
Mecanismos Centrais da Revolução Silenciosa
- Desacoplamento de Sistemas: Através da Imunidade através da Integridade, o indivíduo deixa de fornecer o "combustível emocional" (medo ou submissão) necessário ao funcionamento das estruturas hierárquicas.
- Subversão Incremental: A Abordagem Discreta evita o "efeito rebound" das revoluções violentas, que substituem frequentemente uma tirania por outra, promovendo, em vez disso, uma mudança cultural gradual e irreversível através da conduta pessoal.
- Neutralidade Psicológica: A indiferença ativa serve como barreira defensiva; ao recusar-se a participar na dialética do ódio ou da polarização, o indivíduo priva os mecanismos de controlo sistémico da sua influência.
- Infraestrutura Ética: O Humanismo Aplicado e a Igualdade Prática transferem valores do abstrato para o físico. Estas práticas criam microestruturas sociais paralelas baseadas na partilha e na proteção, em vez da competição e da segregação.
- Autonomia Intelectual/Soberania da Consciência: A defesa da liberdade de pensamento serve como último e impenetrável bastião contra o controlo totalitário e a propaganda externa.
Em última análise, esta filosofia postula que uma revolução descentralizada é inevitável se um número suficiente de indivíduos alcançar a coerência individual, a autonomia e a Soberania da Consciência, dado que um sistema não pode governar uma população que recuperou coletivamente a sua autoridade interna.
O Conselho Rovingiano propõe que a melhor forma de combater as sombras do totalitarismo e a opressão da razão é através do fortalecimento do espírito individual. Quando o indivíduo é soberano e pacífico, o sistema autoritário perde a sua capacidade de o controlar através do medo.
note: rl is kicking my butt.. if you are part of my inner circle, you already know what is happening... if you do not, don't take offense. i will still be able to blog but, it will only be between certain hours, when i have access to the wifi. and, i am going to prioritize rl for this week. if you need me, find me on discord. thank.
Calgary, CANADÀ 2024
The Reconciliation Bridge is a historic crossing in Calgary, famous for its renaming and its role as a symbol of the city's reconciliation efforts with Canada's First Nations.
Early History: The original steel truss bridge was constructed in 1910 and was known for over a century as the Langevin Bridge. It was named after Sir Hector-Louis Langevin, a Father of Confederation who was also a key figure in establishing Canada's residential school system for Indigenous children.
Renaming: In 2017, Calgary City Council voted to rename the bridge to the Reconciliation Bridge as a symbolic gesture to acknowledge and address the harm caused by the residential school system and to underscore the city's commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.
Distinguishing Feature: Today, the bridge is a prominent feature of the skyline due to its installation of 5,600 programmable LED lights. Its lighting program often prioritizes Indigenous stories and significant dates.
NEW BLOG!
HONEYBAE~LAYLA DRESS FP
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The population of the Caucasian-Anatolian squirrel is undeniably dwindling across the Northern Aegean region of Türkiye. Conversations with local olive growers reveal their observations of increased numbers of field mice and snakes this year, signaling potential ecological imbalances. While reports on the impacts of the climate crisis inundate newspapers and TV news, the actions taken by humanity to address these issues remain uncertain.
Amidst the global preoccupation with wars, viruses, and economic turmoil, humanity's role in preserving nature often takes a backseat. The sight of a female Caucasian-Anatolian squirrel perched atop a centuries-old olive tree holds profound significance for me. As I contemplate the precariousness of their existence in this natural habitat, I can't help but wonder how many more years these remarkable creatures will have to perpetuate their lineage.
The answer to this question may seem inconsequential to many, but for scientists and conservationists, it embodies the urgency of safeguarding biodiversity and mitigating the anthropogenic threats faced by vulnerable species like the Caucasian-Anatolian squirrel. As stewards of the Earth, it is our collective responsibility to prioritize environmental preservation and enact measures that ensure the continued coexistence of humans and wildlife.
The Caucasian-Anatolian squirrel, scientifically known as Sciurus anomalus, is a captivating species endemic to the lush woodlands of the Caucasus region and certain parts of Anatolia in Türkiye. Renowned for its striking appearance, this arboreal mammal boasts a distinct black and white fur pattern, making it easily recognizable amidst the verdant foliage of its habitat.
These agile creatures navigate their arboreal homes with remarkable dexterity, effortlessly traversing the canopy and executing gravity-defying leaps between branches. Their acrobatic prowess is not only a spectacle to behold but also serves as a testament to their evolutionary adaptations for life among the treetops.
Inhabiting predominantly forested areas, the Caucasian-Anatolian squirrel sustains itself through a varied diet consisting of nuts, seeds, fruits, and occasional insects. Their foraging activities play a crucial role in the dispersal of seeds, contributing to the regeneration and diversity of their forest ecosystems.
Despite their resilience, these enchanting squirrels face challenges stemming from habitat loss and fragmentation, primarily driven by human activities such as deforestation and urbanization. Conservation efforts aimed at preserving and restoring their natural habitats are imperative for safeguarding their populations and ensuring their continued existence in the wild.
Observing the antics of the Caucasian-Anatolian squirrel in its native habitat is not only a delightful experience for nature enthusiasts but also serves as a poignant reminder of the intricate ecological relationships that sustain life on our planet.
The Caucasian-Anatolian squirrel, belonging to the Sciuridae family, is a medium-sized rodent with a body length ranging from 20 to 25 centimeters and a distinctive bushy tail measuring approximately 15 to 20 centimeters in length. Its fur exhibits a striking contrast between jet black and pristine white, with the black coloration extending from the head down to the tail, while the underbelly and parts of the face and limbs showcase a pristine white hue.
These arboreal creatures possess sharp claws and robust hind limbs, facilitating their adept climbing and leaping abilities. Their keen senses, including sharp eyesight and acute hearing, aid in detecting predators and locating food sources amidst the dense foliage of their forested habitats.
Caucasian-Anatolian squirrels are primarily diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day, engaging in foraging expeditions and social interactions with other members of their species. However, they may exhibit some nocturnal activity, particularly during periods of abundant food availability or in response to environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations.
During the breeding season, which typically occurs in the spring months, male squirrels engage in spirited displays of courtship to attract potential mates. Following a gestation period of approximately 38 to 42 days, females give birth to litters of two to six offspring, known as kits. The young squirrels are nurtured in intricately constructed nests, known as dreys, meticulously woven from twigs, leaves, and moss high in the tree canopy.
The survival of the Caucasian-Anatolian squirrel is intricately intertwined with the preservation of its forest habitat, which provides not only essential food resources but also refuge from predators and adverse environmental conditions. Conservation efforts aimed at mitigating habitat destruction, implementing sustainable forestry practices, and raising awareness about the ecological importance of this species are vital for ensuring its long-term survival.
By celebrating the unique beauty and ecological significance of the Caucasian-Anatolian squirrel, we deepen our appreciation for the rich biodiversity of our planet and reaffirm our commitment to coexisting harmoniously with nature.
I've captured some memorable moments with my camera, and I genuinely hope you'll experience the same joy in viewing these images as I did in capturing them.
Thank you immensely for visiting my gallery, whether you leave comments, add favorites, or simply take a moment to look around. Your support means a lot to me, and I wish you the best of luck and beautiful light in all your endeavors.
Lens - With Nikon TC 14E II - hand held or Monopod and definitely SPORT VR on. Aperture is f8 and full length. All my images have been converted from RAW to JPEG.
I started using Nikon Cross-Body Strap or Monopod on long walks. Here is my Carbon Monopod details : Gitzo GM2542 Series 2 4S Carbon Monopod - Really Right Stuff MH-01 Monopod Head with Standard Lever - Really Right Stuff LCF-11 Replacement Foot for Nikon AF-S 500mm /5.6E PF Lense -
© All rights reserved by R.Ertug. Please refrain from using this image without my explicit written permission. If you're interested in purchasing or using it, feel free to contact me via Flickr mail.
Your comments and critiques are highly valued.
Thanks for taking the time to stop by and explore :)
Lake Tekapo, Tekapo, South Island, New Zealand
One of my shooting protocols after the trip is to scan through every shot that I have and picked the potential one to do post-processing by giving the tagging in my entire album.
This particular shot has already been tagged but for some reason, I've missed out terribly, nearly 3 years buried in my storage. Luckily was doing some scanning photos in my album and suddenly saw this, quickly dig out and straight into editing mode.
I still remember this was the first place in our itinerary; the legendary The Church of The Good Shepherd. While we have our vehicle parked few kilometers away from the actual location, so we gotta walk and right before the church, we have to cross the bridge first.
Spotted a couple (I suppose) standing there right at the center of the bridge. Find it a fascinating angle with the natural lights on them and overall blended in perfectly. Without hesitation pressed the shuttle where my cameras were already on my shoulders.
Wanted to do our wefie photography, because we were too excited to rush towards the church and also too many crowds upcoming over the bridge so end up ditch the idea and move on to what we have been prioritizing first.
#d80
#nikon
#nztravel
#laketekapo
#nikoncontest
#nikkor10_20mm
#nikonphotography
In June 2020, after experiencing a devastating spring due to COVID, New York State announced that certain businesses could begin partially opening again. New York City’s response included a program called Open Restaurants, which allowed restaurants to use sidewalks and parking spaces for outdoor, socially distant dining. Owners quickly built temporary enclosures in the streets in front of their businesses to try and recover from months of shutdown. Small stretches of Brooklyn in early 2021 display the variety and feel of these enclosures. Hopefully, the Open Restaurants initiative will help these businesses to survive and may even lead to a more permanent reorienting of streets to prioritize people over cars.
An aerial photo shows a small section of the atoll that has slipped beneath the water line only showing a small pile of rocks at low tide on Majuro Atoll in the Marshall Islands on Nov. 8, 2015. For decades, the tiny Marshall Islands has been a stalwart American ally. Its location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean has made it a key strategic outpost for the U.S. military. (AP Photo/Rob Griffith, File)
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AP NEWS
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — For decades, the tiny Marshall Islands has been a stalwart American ally. Its location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean has made it a key strategic outpost for the U.S. military.
But that loyalty is being tested amid a dispute with Washington over the terms of its “Compact of Free Association” agreement, which expires soon. The U.S. is refusing to engage the Marshallese on claims for environmental and health damage caused by dozens of nuclear tests it carried out in the 1940s and ’50s, including a huge thermonuclear blast on Bikini Atoll.
The dispute has some U.S. lawmakers worried that China might be willing to step into the breach, adding to a bruising competition for geopolitical dominance between the two superpowers.
Since World War II, the U.S. has treated the Marshall Islands, along with Micronesia and Palau, much like territories. On the Marshall Islands, the U.S. has developed military, intelligence and aerospace facilities in a region where China is particularly active.
In turn, U.S. money and jobs have benefited the Marshall Islands’ economy. And many Marshallese have taken advantage of their ability to live and work in the U.S., moving in the thousands to Arkansas, Hawaii and Oklahoma.
But this month, 10 Democratic and Republican members of the House of Representatives wrote to President Joe Biden’s national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, about the U.S. compact talks with the Marshalls, Micronesia and Palau.
“It is distressing that these negotiations do not appear to be a priority — there have been no formal meetings since this Administration began — even as our international focus continues shifting to the Indo-Pacific,” they wrote.
The lawmakers said the delays were putting the U.S. in a weaker position, and “China is all too ready to step in and provide the desperately needed infrastructure and climate resiliency investment that is sought by these long-time partners.”
China’s Foreign Ministry said the U.S. should face up to its responsibility to restore the environmental damage it caused with its nuclear tests. It said China was willing to engage with the Marshall Islands and other Pacific island nations on the basis of mutual respect and cooperation under the “One China Principle,” in which Taiwan is viewed as part of China.
“We welcome efforts to boost economic relations and improve the quality of life between the sides,” the ministry said in a statement.
China has steadily poached allies from Taiwan in the Pacific, including Kiribati and the Solomon Islands in 2019. Just this week, angry protesters in the Solomons set fire to buildings and looted stores in unrest that some have linked to the China switch.
James Matayoshi, the mayor of Rongelap Atoll on the Marshall Islands, said he and hundreds of others have remained displaced from their atoll since the nuclear tests and want to see it revitalized. He said officials have been talking with potential investors from Asia, after a previous proposal by a Chinese-Marshallese businessman fell through.
“It would be a business transaction. We don’t advocate for war or any superpower influence,” Matayoshi said. “But we want to be able to live in our backyard, and enjoy life here.”
Like many others on the Marshall Islands, Matayoshi believes a U.S. settlement of $150 million agreed to in the 1980s fell well short of addressing the nuclear legacy. He said his late mother was pregnant at the time of one massive nuclear blast and got exposed to radiation that was the equivalent of 25,000 X-rays before giving birth to a stillborn baby.
But the U.S. position has remained static for more than 20 years, the last time the compact came up for renegotiation. The U.S. maintains that nuclear compensation was dealt with in a “full and final settlement” and cannot be reopened.
Marshallese Senator David Paul — who is on the islands’ negotiating committee and also represents Kwajalein Atoll, which is home to a major U.S. military base — said continuing high cancer rates and the displacement of people remain huge issues.
“Everyone knows the negotiations at that time were not fair or equitable,” Paul said. “When you look at the total cost of property damage and the ongoing health issues to date, it’s a drop in the bucket. It’s an insult.”
Various estimates put the true cost of the damage at about $3 billion, including for repairs to a massive nuclear waste facility known as the Cactus Dome which environmentalists say is leaking toxic waste into the ocean.
A report to Congress last year from the U.S. Department of Energy said the dome contains over 100,000 cubic yards (76,000 cubic meters) of radioactively contaminated soil and debris but the structure wasn’t in any immediate danger of failing. The report concluded that any contaminated groundwater flowing beneath the structure was not measurably impacting the environment.
As it did in earlier compact negotiations, the U.S. has stonewalled discussions on the nuclear legacy, something that American officials acknowledge.
“We know that’s important, but there is a full and final settlement, and both sides agreed to it,” said a senior U.S. official who wasn’t authorized to publicly discuss the issue and spoke on condition of anonymity. “So, that issue is just not subject to being reopened. But, we’re still quite willing to work with the (Marshallese) on the broader issues that are important to us and that’s what we hope to do.”
The U.S. State Department said the Indo-Pacific is central to U.S. foreign policy.
“We are prioritizing achieving success in the negotiations related to the Compacts with the Freely Associated States as a regional foreign policy objective,” the department said.
The frustrations of the Marshallese were apparent in a letter sent last month by Foreign Minister Casten Nemra to Rep. Katie Porter, a California Democrat who chairs the House Natural Resources Committee’s oversight and investigations panel.
“The State and Interior Department officials involved have been unwilling to discuss an agenda for the talks and tried to confine the discussion to their own limited proposals,” Nemra wrote. “The nuclear issue clearly was one reason. All issues raised by the Marshall Islands were met with assertions that they did not have authority to discuss the matters without any indication that they would seek it.”
Sen. Paul said the American approach needs to change.
“I believe the U.S. has the legal and moral obligation to make sure they clean up this debris,” Paul said. “We want to make sure we get a better deal this time around. As they say, the third time is a charm.”