View allAll Photos Tagged omnipresent
Full-blown "dream-processed".
Like what Madonna would say, "Don't just stand there let's get to it, strike a pose there's nothing to it."
[#444 on Explore.]
The heavy sky of São Paulo never ceases to oppress. Omnipresent, always conscious. A sky that feels the pain of being hidden.
Behind the worktable is located the big board with information on the Occupational Safety including the Virus. And omnipresent houseplants of course to the letft. October railway division of the Russian railways
Cala Carritxal, al fondo podemos ver la omnipresente torre que domina la Cala del Xarco. Las nubes pasaban rapidas debido a las fuertes rachas de viento, eso me permitió conseguir tantas estelas en tan “poco” tiempo de exposición. Un lugar maravilloso con posibilidades enormes y no sólo para hacer fotos sino para bucear y para relajarse observando el mar.
Equipo utilizado: D7000, Sigma 10-20 + filtro degrado inverso de 3 pasos + filtro neutro 9 pasos de HOYA, trípode y cable disparador
Técnica utilizada: Prioridad a la apertura para conseguir máximo detalle en toda la foto y larga exposición para conseguir el movimiento en las nubes.
Postprocesado: Aumento del contraste, corrección del balance de blancos, subida de negros y redimensionar para web.
De S-wagens van de NMVB reden ook op het net rond Gent, maar de lijnen kwamen niet zo ver in het hart van de stad als hier op de draaibrug over de Leie bij het Koophandelsplein. Bij het 150-jarig jubileum van de tram in Gent gebeurde dat wel
The 'S'-type cars of the vicinal tramways were once almost omnipresent in Belgium, also in Ghent, but the SNCV lines did not penetrate this far in the heart of the city. Bridge over river Leie seen from Koophandelsplein, at the occasion of the 150-year anniversary of trams in the city
BIG BANG - Présentations Publiques - Stéphanie Decourteille - Danse Contemporaine
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www.facebook.com/decourteillestephanie
www.instagram.com/stephanie_decourteille
www.youtube.com/channel/UCsvM4JbrUfIElvNFaypuAkg
Chaque programme de la formation BIG BANG est ponctué par des présentations publiques permettant aux élèves de dévoiler une première étape de leur travail de recherche et de création devant un public.
Nous vous invitons à venir encourager les 13 finissant.e.s et à assister aux prochaines présentations qui auront lieu le jeudi 12 et le vendredi 13 décembre à 19h30 au 5000 Iberville (suite 312) à Montréal.
Le nombre de places étant limité, merci de vous inscrire en spécifiant votre choix de soirée à info@stephaniedecourteille.com
Interprètes: Laïla Mestari, Maia Tomlinson, Sarah Barone, Jordan Brown, Sarah Lafortune, Guillaume Roberts-Cambron, Agathe Stopin, Julia Soares Weiss, Laurence Patenaude, Maryline Martias, Florine Gall, Emeline Descharles
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Stéphanie Decourteille - Danse Contemporaine
Stéphanie Decourteille - Formation et classes en danse contemporaine à Montréal
Dans ses CLASSES du matin et du soir, ainsi que dans le cadre de BIG BANG – la formation intensive, Stéphanie Decourteille partage sa technique de la danse contemporaine et son langage chorégraphique.
Elle accompagne les artistes (danseurs, circassiens, comédiens, etc) pour leur permettre d’acquérir de nouveaux outils techniques et une pleine maturité artistique.
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Stéphanie Decourteille - Fondatrice, directrice artistique et pédagogique
De ses années de formations et de ses rencontres avec des personnalités du milieu (Rudy Bryans, Anne-Marie Porras, Corinne Lanselle, Bruno Agati, Kader Attou, Manon Barbeau, Robert Lepage...) Stéphanie Decourteille définit et renouvelle inlassablement sa signature chorégraphique. Vertiges, son premier solo dansé et son premier court-métrage de danse, lui valent la reconnaissance de ses pairs et une visibilité internationale. Sollicitée pour son langage chorégraphique singulier, fougueux et exigeant physiquement, ainsi que pour sa pédagogie rigoureuse,elle est appelée par de nombreux chorégraphes et structures culturelles pour offrir des classes de maître, des classes d’entrainement et de perfectionnement du danseur, des ateliers et des stages. Elle multiplie notamment les interventions dans les domaines de la danse contemporaine, du cirque et de la danse urbaine. Entres autres aux Ballets Jazz de Montréal, au Ballet Preljocaj, en France et à la Cie En Dance de Rhapsody James, à New York.
Installée durant plus de dix ans à Montréal (Canada), Stéphanie enseigne aux danseurs de tous niveaux des classes quotidiennes de danse contemporaine, et initie des classes de Barre Ballet Contemporain, méthode d’entrainement du danseur née de la fusion de sa formation conjointe en ballet et en danse contemporaine.
En novembre 2015, Stéphanie donne un nouvel élan à sa carrière. Elle quitte Montréal pour la Guadeloupe (FR) et prend la direction d’un centre de danse à Basse-Terre. En Septembre 2016, sous sa direction, le MA-Mouvement Actuel, centre de formation en danse, plateforme internationale d’échanges artistiques pluridisciplinaires et espace de recherche et de création (www.centrema.com), voit le jour.
De retour au Canada depuis novembre 2017, Stéphanie poursuit sa démarche et continue d’enseigner à Montréal comme à l’étranger. En janvier 2018, en créant BIG BANG - formation intensive en danse contemporaine à Montréal, Stéphanie Decourteille développe une formation courte et intensive en danse contemporaine accueillant deux cohortes d'artistes par année. Au plus proche des artistes, Stéphanie déploie un programme unique et rigoureux renforçant les acquis corporels et expressifs de chacun.
Démarche pédagogique
Bien plus qu’une démarche pédagogique, Stéphanie Decourteille développe une véritable philosophie de la danse et de l’enseignement. Persuadée que la danse est un art de vivre tous les jours avec son corps et à tous les âges, elle met son expertise et ses chorégraphies entièrement au service des interprètes en formation. Stéphanie agit auprès de danseurs, de circassiens, de patineurs artistiques et de comédiens. Pour accompagner les corps au plus loin de leurs capacités, elle se soucie du détail. C’est en observant la globalité ou les individualités face à elle, qu’elle surveille les chemins du mouvement, les placements, la coordination, qu’elle mesure l’état et qu’elle corrige, réajuste les corps par rapport à la gestuelle imposée. Elle s’adapte à chaque niveau. Aux cours débutants, elle veut transmettre le goût et le plaisir de danser ; aux cours avancés, elle veut partager son énergie et son expérience, et accompagner chacun dans l’atteinte de ses objectifs personnels. Chaque cours est construit de manière à allier plaisir, mouvements dansés, rigueur et apprentissage. Le danseur devient présent à lui-même et à l’espace dans lequel il évolue, à la fois vulnérable et fort.
Au cœur d'un langage chorégraphique
Persuadée que chorégraphier est un moyen extraordinaire d’exploiter les ressources contenues dans le corps, Stéphanie Decourteille explore quotidiennement les différents chemins que celui-ci peut emprunter, définissant ainsi une gestuelle singulière. Stéphanie s’amuse du contraste. En rien elle ne renie ses racines. Au contraire, avec une formation solide de ballet classique, de danse contemporaine, de danse modern-jazz et influencée par ses expériences en hip-hop, Stéphanie joue avec les différentes technicités de corps et s’alimente des acquis du danseur.
En mouvement constant, infime, même à l’arrêt, les corps chez Stéphanie Decourteille explorent l’opposition. Entre tension et contre-tension, entre étirement et compression, la dynamique de mêler et démêler les chemins corporels est omniprésente. Pour elle, chaque interprète possède un centre de gravité situé autour du nombril. À partir de cela, la jeune chorégraphe va chercher à le déplacer constamment dans tout le corps pour découvrir de nouvelles sensations, de nouvelles gestuelles et des textures de mouvements encore inexplorées.
#lartaucoeurdenosvies #bringingtheartstolife #bigbang #stephaniedecourteille
Riquewhir, , Alsace, France.
Riquewihr en idioma francés, Reichenweier en alsaciano, es una localidad y comuna francesa situada en el departamento de Alto Rin, en la región de Alsacia.
Por su belleza y atractivo turístico es uno de los pueblos distinguidos por la asociación Les plus beaux villages de France.
Esta ciudad fortificada rodeada de viñas es una auténtica joya. En el pueblo de Riquewihr abundan las casas de colores con entramado con fachadas decoradas con viejos rótulos. Algunas casas están adornadas con bonitas ventanas saledizas. Las omnipresentes flores y plantas trepadoras refuerzan el atractivo del pueblo.
Para descubrir el patrimonio arquitectónico único de Riquewihr, lo mejor es pasear y admirar, en el ocio, los innumerables monumentos. Se puede descubrir el ayuntamiento de estilo neo-clásico. El castillo de Württemberg en 1539 ahora alberga el museo de la comunicación. Además del edificio notable, puede supervisar la posición a través de las edades. El antiguo patio de la Abadía de Autrey desde 1510 tiene un innegable encanto con su torreta ascendente desde el sótano hasta el ático y bóveda con ocho costillas apoyo a una terraza. Va a pasar por el Museo del Dolder. Esta entrada de la puerta fortificada de la ciudad tiene un campanario de 25 metros de altura con una cara exterior bélico y la apariencia benévola en el casco urbano. La torre de los ladrones 1550 es la antigua prisión. Se pueden visitar las cámaras de tortura y mazmorras húmedas donde matones estaban cerradas. Por último, paseando por las calles, se pueden admirar las fachadas de las casas de los siglos XVI y XVII incluidos en el inventario de monumentos históricos. Entre ellos, por nombrar algunos sólo por el bien de sus nombres tan evocador, la antigua casa de tonelería, la casa llamó a los ranúnculo y enólogos de casas esperan en silencio.
Riquewihr in French, Reichenweier in Alsatian, is a town and commune in the department of Haut-Rhin in the Alsace region.
For its beauty and tourist attraction is one of the villages distinguished by the association Les plus beaux villages de France.
This fortified town surrounded by vineyards is a real gem. In the village of Riquewihr, houses with colorful, half-timbered facades adorned with old signs abound. Some houses are adorned with pretty bay windows. The ubiquitous flowers and climbing plants reinforce the appeal of the town.
To discover the unique architectural heritage of Riquewihr, the best is to stroll and admire, in leisure, the countless monuments. During your no, you can discover the neo-classical style town hall. The castle of Württemberg in 1539 now houses the Museum of Communication. In addition to the remarkable building, it can monitor the position throughout the ages. The old courtyard of the Abbey of Autrey since 1510 has an undeniable charm with its turret ascending from the basement to the attic and vault with eight ribs supporting a terrace. You will pass by the Dolder Museum. This entrance of the fortified gate of the city has a bell tower of 25 meters of height with an external warlike face and the benevolent appearance in the urban helmet. The tower of the thieves 1550 is the old prison. You can visit the torture chambers and wet dungeons where thugs were closed. Finally, walking through the streets, you can admire the facades of the houses of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries included in the inventory of historical monuments. Among them, to name a few just for the sake of their names so evocative, the old coop house, the house called the ranunculus and house winemakers wait in silence.
ManHatTan
has deteriorated in the last 10 years plus
or more.
NO leadership at all!
Crime is omnipresent and ever present.
The pandemic added insult to injury.
from the streets
of the EAST VILLAGE
Happy 4th!
Photography’s new conscience
Riquewhir, , Alsace, France.
Riquewihr en idioma francés, Reichenweier en alsaciano, es una localidad y comuna francesa situada en el departamento de Alto Rin, en la región de Alsacia.
Por su belleza y atractivo turístico es uno de los pueblos distinguidos por la asociación Les plus beaux villages de France.
Esta ciudad fortificada rodeada de viñas es una auténtica joya. En el pueblo de Riquewihr abundan las casas de colores con entramado con fachadas decoradas con viejos rótulos. Algunas casas están adornadas con bonitas ventanas saledizas. Las omnipresentes flores y plantas trepadoras refuerzan el atractivo del pueblo.
Para descubrir el patrimonio arquitectónico único de Riquewihr, lo mejor es pasear y admirar, en el ocio, los innumerables monumentos. Se puede descubrir el ayuntamiento de estilo neo-clásico. El castillo de Württemberg en 1539 ahora alberga el museo de la comunicación. Además del edificio notable, puede supervisar la posición a través de las edades. El antiguo patio de la Abadía de Autrey desde 1510 tiene un innegable encanto con su torreta ascendente desde el sótano hasta el ático y bóveda con ocho costillas apoyo a una terraza. Va a pasar por el Museo del Dolder. Esta entrada de la puerta fortificada de la ciudad tiene un campanario de 25 metros de altura con una cara exterior bélico y la apariencia benévola en el casco urbano. La torre de los ladrones 1550 es la antigua prisión. Se pueden visitar las cámaras de tortura y mazmorras húmedas donde matones estaban cerradas. Por último, paseando por las calles, se pueden admirar las fachadas de las casas de los siglos XVI y XVII incluidos en el inventario de monumentos históricos. Entre ellos, por nombrar algunos sólo por el bien de sus nombres tan evocador, la antigua casa de tonelería, la casa llamó a los ranúnculo y enólogos de casas esperan en silencio.
Riquewihr in French, Reichenweier in Alsatian, is a town and commune in the department of Haut-Rhin in the Alsace region.
For its beauty and tourist attraction is one of the villages distinguished by the association Les plus beaux villages de France.
This fortified town surrounded by vineyards is a real gem. In the village of Riquewihr, houses with colorful, half-timbered facades adorned with old signs abound. Some houses are adorned with pretty bay windows. The ubiquitous flowers and climbing plants reinforce the appeal of the town.
To discover the unique architectural heritage of Riquewihr, the best is to stroll and admire, in leisure, the countless monuments. During your no, you can discover the neo-classical style town hall. The castle of Württemberg in 1539 now houses the Museum of Communication. In addition to the remarkable building, it can monitor the position throughout the ages. The old courtyard of the Abbey of Autrey since 1510 has an undeniable charm with its turret ascending from the basement to the attic and vault with eight ribs supporting a terrace. You will pass by the Dolder Museum. This entrance of the fortified gate of the city has a bell tower of 25 meters of height with an external warlike face and the benevolent appearance in the urban helmet. The tower of the thieves 1550 is the old prison. You can visit the torture chambers and wet dungeons where thugs were closed. Finally, walking through the streets, you can admire the facades of the houses of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries included in the inventory of historical monuments. Among them, to name a few just for the sake of their names so evocative, the old coop house, the house called the ranunculus and house winemakers wait in silence.
[https://www.flickr.com/photos/21891888@N00] said :
"one leg in court of st james, one in hollywood,
and the rest was dangling over boston."
Figures chrétiennes omniprésentes sur les immeubles des rues de Rome
Photo argentique, Canon AT1, 50 mm
Riquewhir, , Alsace, France.
Riquewihr en idioma francés, Reichenweier en alsaciano, es una localidad y comuna francesa situada en el departamento de Alto Rin, en la región de Alsacia.
Por su belleza y atractivo turístico es uno de los pueblos distinguidos por la asociación Les plus beaux villages de France.
Esta ciudad fortificada rodeada de viñas es una auténtica joya. En el pueblo de Riquewihr abundan las casas de colores con entramado con fachadas decoradas con viejos rótulos. Algunas casas están adornadas con bonitas ventanas saledizas. Las omnipresentes flores y plantas trepadoras refuerzan el atractivo del pueblo.
Para descubrir el patrimonio arquitectónico único de Riquewihr, lo mejor es pasear y admirar, en el ocio, los innumerables monumentos. Se puede descubrir el ayuntamiento de estilo neo-clásico. El castillo de Württemberg en 1539 ahora alberga el museo de la comunicación. Además del edificio notable, puede supervisar la posición a través de las edades. El antiguo patio de la Abadía de Autrey desde 1510 tiene un innegable encanto con su torreta ascendente desde el sótano hasta el ático y bóveda con ocho costillas apoyo a una terraza. Va a pasar por el Museo del Dolder. Esta entrada de la puerta fortificada de la ciudad tiene un campanario de 25 metros de altura con una cara exterior bélico y la apariencia benévola en el casco urbano. La torre de los ladrones 1550 es la antigua prisión. Se pueden visitar las cámaras de tortura y mazmorras húmedas donde matones estaban cerradas. Por último, paseando por las calles, se pueden admirar las fachadas de las casas de los siglos XVI y XVII incluidos en el inventario de monumentos históricos. Entre ellos, por nombrar algunos sólo por el bien de sus nombres tan evocador, la antigua casa de tonelería, la casa llamó a los ranúnculo y enólogos de casas esperan en silencio.
Riquewihr in French, Reichenweier in Alsatian, is a town and commune in the department of Haut-Rhin in the Alsace region.
For its beauty and tourist attraction is one of the villages distinguished by the association Les plus beaux villages de France.
This fortified town surrounded by vineyards is a real gem. In the village of Riquewihr, houses with colorful, half-timbered facades adorned with old signs abound. Some houses are adorned with pretty bay windows. The ubiquitous flowers and climbing plants reinforce the appeal of the town.
To discover the unique architectural heritage of Riquewihr, the best is to stroll and admire, in leisure, the countless monuments. During your no, you can discover the neo-classical style town hall. The castle of Württemberg in 1539 now houses the Museum of Communication. In addition to the remarkable building, it can monitor the position throughout the ages. The old courtyard of the Abbey of Autrey since 1510 has an undeniable charm with its turret ascending from the basement to the attic and vault with eight ribs supporting a terrace. You will pass by the Dolder Museum. This entrance of the fortified gate of the city has a bell tower of 25 meters of height with an external warlike face and the benevolent appearance in the urban helmet. The tower of the thieves 1550 is the old prison. You can visit the torture chambers and wet dungeons where thugs were closed. Finally, walking through the streets, you can admire the facades of the houses of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries included in the inventory of historical monuments. Among them, to name a few just for the sake of their names so evocative, the old coop house, the house called the ranunculus and house winemakers wait in silence.
The Thyrendi culture relies heavily on air travel, and these small one-man flyers are omnipresent on modern Thyrenda. This was a very fun little build, with lots of neat techniques IMO. Also, that's totally not a mangled tengwa I used for the emblem, no sir.
Here on the walls of the Pera Palace Hotel there is an excellent collection of art from many different time periods and centuries ranging from Classical Greek sculpture to Italian Renaissance to Spanish Baroque.
This painting, which is located in the stairwell between the first and second floor is about 20’ x 13’ large.
There is no identification. But according to my eye it is 17 century Spanish Baroque in a style reminiscent of the brilliant Italian baroque painter Caravaggio.
While to her right is the exact opposite subject - a woman, joyous, with her husband and her new born baby who is about to be baptized.
This Mediterranean drama is equally omnipresent on the streets of Istanbul in contemporary life, too!
Riquewhir, , Alsace, France.
Riquewihr en idioma francés, Reichenweier en alsaciano, es una localidad y comuna francesa situada en el departamento de Alto Rin, en la región de Alsacia.
Por su belleza y atractivo turístico es uno de los pueblos distinguidos por la asociación Les plus beaux villages de France.
Esta ciudad fortificada rodeada de viñas es una auténtica joya. En el pueblo de Riquewihr abundan las casas de colores con entramado con fachadas decoradas con viejos rótulos. Algunas casas están adornadas con bonitas ventanas saledizas. Las omnipresentes flores y plantas trepadoras refuerzan el atractivo del pueblo.
Para descubrir el patrimonio arquitectónico único de Riquewihr, lo mejor es pasear y admirar, en el ocio, los innumerables monumentos. Se puede descubrir el ayuntamiento de estilo neo-clásico. El castillo de Württemberg en 1539 ahora alberga el museo de la comunicación. Además del edificio notable, puede supervisar la posición a través de las edades. El antiguo patio de la Abadía de Autrey desde 1510 tiene un innegable encanto con su torreta ascendente desde el sótano hasta el ático y bóveda con ocho costillas apoyo a una terraza. Va a pasar por el Museo del Dolder. Esta entrada de la puerta fortificada de la ciudad tiene un campanario de 25 metros de altura con una cara exterior bélico y la apariencia benévola en el casco urbano. La torre de los ladrones 1550 es la antigua prisión. Se pueden visitar las cámaras de tortura y mazmorras húmedas donde matones estaban cerradas. Por último, paseando por las calles, se pueden admirar las fachadas de las casas de los siglos XVI y XVII incluidos en el inventario de monumentos históricos. Entre ellos, por nombrar algunos sólo por el bien de sus nombres tan evocador, la antigua casa de tonelería, la casa llamó a los ranúnculo y enólogos de casas esperan en silencio.
Riquewihr in French, Reichenweier in Alsatian, is a town and commune in the department of Haut-Rhin in the Alsace region.
For its beauty and tourist attraction is one of the villages distinguished by the association Les plus beaux villages de France.
This fortified town surrounded by vineyards is a real gem. In the village of Riquewihr, houses with colorful, half-timbered facades adorned with old signs abound. Some houses are adorned with pretty bay windows. The ubiquitous flowers and climbing plants reinforce the appeal of the town.
To discover the unique architectural heritage of Riquewihr, the best is to stroll and admire, in leisure, the countless monuments. During your no, you can discover the neo-classical style town hall. The castle of Württemberg in 1539 now houses the Museum of Communication. In addition to the remarkable building, it can monitor the position throughout the ages. The old courtyard of the Abbey of Autrey since 1510 has an undeniable charm with its turret ascending from the basement to the attic and vault with eight ribs supporting a terrace. You will pass by the Dolder Museum. This entrance of the fortified gate of the city has a bell tower of 25 meters of height with an external warlike face and the benevolent appearance in the urban helmet. The tower of the thieves 1550 is the old prison. You can visit the torture chambers and wet dungeons where thugs were closed. Finally, walking through the streets, you can admire the facades of the houses of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries included in the inventory of historical monuments. Among them, to name a few just for the sake of their names so evocative, the old coop house, the house called the ranunculus and house winemakers wait in silence.
The Castro Verde is an absolutely magical area. The rolling Steppe habitat comes to life in Spring and a whole range of colours can be seen. The landscapes are open and rolling, making the sky look big and wide. The region does not receive many visitors and are very tranquil. In spring the land comes to life with the sound of Blackbirds, Calandra Larks, Quail too name but a few. I was lucky to see Great Bustard, Little Bustard, Spanish Imperial Eagle, Lesser Kestrel, Lesser-Short-toed Lark, Thekla Lark, Nightingale, Melodious Warbler were just some of the birds I added to my list in this region. I also saw an Iberian Hare. It is a great place to relax in.
1. Special Protection Area (SPA) Castro Verde
This vast area (790 square kms) of rolling steppe land is a complete contrast to the Algarve and highly recommended for a day trip, being only around an hour’s drive north. Comprising the largest expanses of the steppic grassland plains in Portugal that form a mosaic with wide savannah-like open Holm Oak montado woodlands. Throughout the year the whole area is absolutely enchanting, both for its birds and the outstanding scenery that never fails to induce a vow to return. This seemingly never-ending wilderness is lush and liberally coated with wildflowers in the winter and spring, while in the summer and autumn the area becomes extremely arid and often desert-like. The SPA Castro Verde is one of the most important areas in Europe for sought after species like Lesser Kestrel, Great and Little Bustards and Black-bellied Sandgrouse. The area also supports a great diversity and high density of raptors, which includes nearly all of Portugal’s breeding species.
What to see when, around Castro Verde
During spring and early summer the best grasslands resound with the impressionable sound of Calandra Larks and the incredibly abundant Corn Buntings, while Montagu’s Harriers, Lesser Kestrels and Black Kites arrive to breed in quantity and become common birds in these pristine habitats. Great and Little Bustards display in early spring the latter being at its easiest to see at this time of year. Short-toed, Booted and Bonelli’s Eagles all breed in the general area and use the grasslands as regular hunting grounds. Other species that breed in this region include Stone-curlew, Great Spotted Cuckoo, European Roller, European Bee-eater, Pallid Swift, Woodlark, Short-toed, Crested and Thekla Larks, Tawny Pipit, Crag Martin, Black-eared Wheatear, Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin, Cetti’s, Great Reed and Melodious Warblers, Woodchat and Southern Grey Shrikes, Golden Oriole and Spanish Sparrow as well as the omnipresent Azure-winged Magpies and Hoopoes.
Both Collared Pratincole and Gull-billed Terns occur in the area regularly and sometimes breed, depending on the water levels at key sites. In an undisclosed area Spanish Imperial Eagles have recently set up territories and by employing great care and patience they can often be seen soaring over the area. Simon supplies all his observations to the team that is monitoring this exciting re-establishment. Eurasian Black and Eurasian Griffon Vultures use the area almost daily on their searches for carrion, involving birds of a non-breeding age and one cannot help but prophesise the eventual colonisation of the Eurasian Black Vulture in this admirably suitable area.
Outside the breeding season the absence of the summer visitors is compensated by the arrival of an array of winter birds that join the many attractive resident species, including the omni-present bustards, Black-bellied Sandgrouse, Calandra Larks and resident raptors. Red Kites occupy in considerable numbers and its not at all unusual to see over 30 individuals are in a day, Hen Harriers hunt over the grasslands in good numbers too while the occasional Peregrine or Merlin add further interest to the raptors. Eurasian Black and Eurasian Griffon Vultures are more regularly seen outside the breeding season, as are Spanish Imperial Eagles due to dispersal of younger birds from Spain. Golden Eagle is more wide ranging at this time of year too and 1st year birds are often recorded. Large numbers of wintering Lapwing and Golden Plover settle here and Skylarks and Meadow Pipits become truly abundant. Around 1000 Common Cranes occur, often feeding on fallen acorns in the open Holm Oak woodlands from late October to March (the highest count in the winter of 2007-8 revealed 1300 inds)
This region is well worth visiting all the year round but during the incredibly hot July and August, when birding is often uncomfortable and the heat-haze can make for frustrating viewing, seriously early starts are recommended. On these days we can include a short afternoon visit to Castro Marim (see “Wetlands”). For the most enthusiastic, a 2-3 day tour is ideal and can be easily arranged together with attractive and economic accommodation in the area. This will give ample time for the more difficult species and permit a deeper appreciation of this superb area.
Access in the SPA Castro Verde
Important information (particularly relevant to the observation of Great Bustard):
It is thanks to the Liga da Proteção da Natureza (LPN www.lpn.pt) for the continued existence of high quality steppic habitats in this region. In 1993 the LPN purchased 5 properties in this area (total: 1700ha.) at a time when the whole region was under imminent threat of becoming forested with non-native eucalyptus forest. This would have meant the loss of one of the most important areas of its kind in Europe. Not only did the LPN manage to prevent this from happening on land they purchased but also, through a successful lobby, actually caused a complete turn around within the government and achieved SPA status for the whole area in 1993. The LPN continue to work with the implementation of wide-ranging nature protection projects, notably a long-term program centred on the conservation of the pseudo-steppe habitats within the SPA; “ O Programa Castro Verde Sustentavel”.
Unfortunately, excessive pressure from visiting birdwatchers in recent years has driven the LPN to prohibit free access onto their land (all entrances have large green gates labelled LPN and usually clear signs depicting a design with a Little Bustard’s head and a tractor). These gates should always be closed but as some local farmers tend to leave them open it encourages un-informed birders to just drive in. (Always close them if you see them open!). Due to the increasing numbers of visiting birdwatchers and the proximity of the tracks to Great Bustard leks some disturbance has been unavoidable. Sadly, a few people have even walked across managed habitats in the breeding season, usually in attempts to get closer photographs. Because of this, the LPN have desperately been trying to halt access onto their land - this has been difficult because of lenient Portuguese laws and also because local farmers need to have access to their land by thoroughfare. There has even been a recent case of attempted egg collecting (not birders), which was investigated by the local police and Interpol.
Great Bustards will just not tolerate approach within at least 500 metres and if they are displaying any disturbance of this nature will cut down display time and consequently, reduce their breeding success. As the LPN is almost solely responsible for the dramatic increase in this, by far the largest Great Bustard population in Portugal, these recent trends have become a cause for concern and are counter-productive to their ongoing habitat management etc. Understandably, some birdwatchers just do not realise the consequences of pushing too close and making these creatures fly - just once a day in the breeding season can have a marked effect on their population. The great majority of birdwatchers don't mean to be selfish but in actual fact one cannot closely approach these birds without disturbance. If you should be lucky enough to encounter Great Bustards outside of the LPN land, please observe the following:
Great Bustard observation code as practiced and encouraged by the LPN
1.Keep to an absolute minimum distance of 5-600 metres when at all possible.
2. Stay part of the car - ie; get out but don’t separate one-self visually.
3. Stay on tracks
4. Keep movements very gentle and be very quiet
5. Keep observations to less than around 20 mins
6. Drive away slowly
In this way one can enjoy the Great Bustards without making them nervous
LPN Castro Verde Environmental Education Centre:
“Centro de Educação Ambiental de Vale Gonçalinho”
Simon strongly suggests to anyone visiting the area for the first time to make a visit to this centre; it’s an ideal way to start the day being only some 10 mins drive north-east from Castro Verde.
Tel: (00351) 286 328 309 (Usually closed on Sundays and Mondays).
One can visit this centre freely from 9am - 5 pm. There are free walking trails here that are very good for Little Bustard, European Roller, Lesser Kestrel and Calandra Lark and to a lesser extent, Great Bustard and Black-bellied Sandgrouse. The charming staff speak excellent English and will give birdwatching advice for the whole region, including details of recent interesting sightings.
Books and T-shirts etc. are available for purchase in the small
shop, as well as a selection of free informative leaflets (donations welcome!).
At the centre one can easily become a member of the non-profit making LPN and help them with their many conservation projects. Through advance booking, the LPN will take small groups (up to 6) to see the wildlife of the region including the Bustards etc. Note that as over the years Simon has led voluntary trips for members of the LPN and SPEA and regularly supplies data from the region, he has a special arrangement for entering some LPN land in the SPA Castro Verde.
To reach the Centro de Educação Ambiental de Vale Gonçalinho:
Take the Beja road (IP2) from Castro Verde - soon one will see an adjacent (the old road) road to the right. Get on this at the first opportunity at around 2.5 kms from Castro Verde. Continue in the Beja direction and after around another 2 kms a well-made track to the right is clearly signposted for the centre. Drive down here for approx 1 km (looking out for Calandra Larks and Little Bustards!)
until you come to a long white building - you are at the centre.
Some conservation dependent species of the SPA Castro Verde
The Castro Verde region is the most important area in Portugal for a number of rare and endangered birds that depend totally or partially on extensive steppic habitats. The sustainability of these depends largely on man’s influence. The major threats are; intensification of agriculture through modern farming methods, the reduction of traditional grazing pastures and afforestation. Below is some general information and up to date facts and figures about the conservation of some of the most important species that are found in the Castro Verde region and its environs.
Great Bustard
According to an extensive and rigorous survey of the Great Bustard population in Portugal in 2005 this fabulous species recently suffered some small extinctions in a couple of areas but had increased overall. This increase is largely due to the existence of one large high-quality area – the SPA Castro Verde. Here the total number of 1,093 individuals counted in 2005 represents nearly 80% of the Portuguese total – a marked increase since the last major census in 2002 when 912 individuals were detected. Countrywide, the major threats to Great Bustard in Portugal were identified as; agricultural intensification, afforestation as well as collision with power lines, illegal hunting and road building. In the Castro Verde region, where the LPN works with local farmers to achieve environmentally sustainable agricultural practices and habitat management, the main cause for concern are power lines – 19 Great Bustards were found to have collided with them between October 2004 and September 2005. Undoubtedly the Castro Verde region is as good as anywhere in the world for observing this shy and vulnerable species although due to its extreme sensitivity, especially during the breeding season it is imperative that visiting birdwatchers respect access rules to private land and follow the observation code set out by the LPN (see above).
Citation: Leitão, D; Jolivet, C; Rodriguez, M and Tavares, J., eds Bustard Conservation in Europe in the last 15 Years: current trends, best practices and future priorities. Birdlife International, 2006.
Little Bustard
The LIFE-nature funded project: “Project Tetrax – Conservation of Little Bustard in the Alentejo” included intensive surveys of both the breeding and wintering population. Also, and importantly, action plans with the co-operation of local farmers and central administration were developed. The breeding population census (2003-2005) showed that the SPA Castro Verde was by far the most important single area for this species, holding 3440 displaying males. Data collected also revealed densities as high as 9.8 males per 100 hectares, which is the highest recorded anywhere and further highlights the crucial importance the area has for grassland species in general. As this survey forms a baseline for future monitoring it is not yet possible to conclude an actual trend for the Little Bustard population in Portugal, although the initial results indicate a substantial increase in comparison to previous fieldwork. It is likely however, that the increased coverage and the high data quality collected during this project have largely clouded any reliable comparison with the past. As with many steppe-land species the main threats identified during Project Tetrax were agricultural intensification and afforestation. If these changes to land use are not halted it is believed, despite the present large population in Portugal that Little Bustard could be threatened with extinction in the short to medium term.
Citation: Leitão, D; Jolivet, C; Rodriguez, M and Tavares, J., eds Bustard Conservation in Europe in the last 15 Years: current trends, best practices and future priorities. Birdlife International, 2006.
Lesser Kestrel
Due to drastic reductions in the breeding populations of this charming falcon the Lesser Kestrel is considered an endangered species. The LPN has been working closely with this species throughout Portugal since 1993 when the national population had hit a low of less than 150 pairs. Now, thanks to the efforts of the LPN there are over 450 breeding pairs in Portugal and are still increasing. Presently, the SPA Castro Verde holds over 70% of the country’s population. Between 2002 and 2006 the LPN launched a Life-nature project: “Re-establishment of the Lesser Kestrel (Falco naumanii) in Portugal”. Among the many actions taken by the LPN the provision of new nesting sites and the improvement of old ones have benefited this colonially nesting species. Meanwhile, ongoing deals with landowners that promote friendly farming practices have substantially increased the amount of insect prey so important to this migratory falcon. During the project’s 4 years the incredible figure of 2797 juveniles were ringed and preliminary understanding indicates that most of these return to their birthplace.
Citation: Henriques, I & Alcazar, R. 2006. Um olhar sobre o Peneiriero-das-torres (Falco naumanii) do projecto LIFE-Natureza Peneiriero-das-torres – “Recuperação de Peneiriero-das-torres (Falco naumanii) em Portugal. LPN, Lisboa, Portugal.
Black-bellied Sandgrouse
This is another scarce species that is entirely restricted to large and undisturbed areas of steppe-type habitats. Again this bird’s stronghold in Portugal is the SPA Castro Verde, which holds more than half of the total national population. There are now believed to be more Black-bellied Sandgrouse than previously thought in Portugal, although the population is almost certainly less than 1000 individuals. It is an extremely difficult species to census – a recent study in the region of Morão in central-east Portugal revealed that over 300 individuals are now known to be resident. A reliable census of their situation in the whole of Portugal is awaited. The Black-bellied Sandgrouse is a notoriously elusive species that demands, maybe more than any other in the region, previous experience in order to be seen. The usual view is of small groups in flight that are flushed unknowingly by the observer, their atmospheric flight calls giving them away. Views on the ground, if at all, are nearly always at great distance as this bird will usually get up and fly on approach to within 1 km. only to settle even further away!
Montagu’s Harrier
The first Montagu’s Harriers return to the SPA Castro Verde to breed from as early as late February where they occupy most of this enormous area. From mid-March this easily seen raptor becomes quite literally abundant and due to its apparent lack of fear, delights observers as they quarter at low level over the grasslands and cereal crops of the region. In a single day it is not unusual to see 20 different individuals. Thanks to LPN’s efforts with the local farmers their habitat has improved in recent years and their nest sites protected from machinery during harvest time, which often coincides with the times that unfledged young are still in the nest. Interestingly, a pair of Marsh Harriers has been breeding in similar cereal-steppe habitats, which is quite normal in Eastern Europe but practically unheard of in the west where they are almost exclusively confined to reedbeds.
European Roller
Only around 100 pairs breed in Portugal, being much more scarce than many visitors imagine. The European Roller has suffered considerable declines over much of its range and once again, the decline of suitable habitat due to modern agricultural practices is the key factor. This much sought after species is a staggeringly colourful migrant and flight views never fail to leave an unforgettable impression on the observer. The SPA Castro Verde has the highest density of breeding pairs in the country, partly due to the placement of nest boxes and breeding walls for Lesser Kestrel by the LPN in suitable habitat and partly because of the ideal conditions that this area presents. It is a fairly late migrant, the first birds tending to arrive around the 1st week of April with occasional sightings considerably earlier. The European Roller, despite its colours is not always easy to see and is absent from many apparently suitable areas. A visit to a known breeding site is the most reliable method!
Calandra Lark
This, the largest of all larks is another specialist of the interior arid areas of Portugal where it is rather patchily distributed. The winter flocks can comprise of many 100’s of birds while in late winter these split up to occupy favoured sites. Even in the breeding season Calandra Lark is gregarious – breeding in loose colonies when it is normal to witness the memorable sight and sound of various birds in slow-motion song flight at their favoured spots. Their distinctive sounds are an integral part of the best habitats in the region and one will find that their presence coincides with other sought-after species of the region. Short-toed Larks, Tawny Pipits and Black-eared Wheatears often occupy the same areas as this species.
Common Crane
A large proportion of the European wintering population resides in central-western Iberia with most occupying favoured areas in the Spanish Extramadura. Portugal receives its portion though, confined mainly to central-eastern areas on the Spanish border and around Castro Verde. Well over 1000 Common Cranes winter in the SPA Castro Verde, arriving in numbers around late October and leaving by mid-March. Despite their numbers it is rather difficult to find them in their preferred feeding areas below the extensive Holm Oak montado woodlands, where they feed on fallen acorns. The best strategy for success is to stakeout one of their roosting sites, with care not to cause any interruptions that can cause considerable stress when incoming groups are settling. The sight and sound of wild Common Cranes assembling to roost must be one of the most awe-inspiring spectacles that nature has to offer.
Black-shouldered Kite
The stronghold in Europe for this enchanting raptor are the interior wooded plains of the western Spanish Extramadura and its natural continuation in Portugal’s Alentejo. In winter they can sometimes be seen hunting over the open plains of the Castro Verde region but this is not their breeding habitat. This is a bird of savannah-like Holm Oak montado-type woodland interspersed with cereal crops. This habitat forms a large part of the SPA Castro Verde and well-travelled visitors to the area in the dry season often comment on its uncanny resemblance to the African savannah. Although quite a common resident species it is becoming apparent that after the breeding season, many birds vacate the searing heat of mid-summer. It is then, that they often hunt in the periphery of wetlands and other cooler coastal areas of the Alentejo and especially, in the Lisbon region. By mid-autumn most of the local breeders are back in territory and are usually easily seen from then and to the end of the breeding season.
IN ENGLISH BELOW THE LINE
Tot visitant el fort de Salses, però només amb visita guiada, es pot veure aquesta inscripció. Es troba dalt les muralles, en una especie de terrassa. Les inscripcions en monuments de tota mena son per desgracia una cosa omnipresent, però a vegades elles mateixes poden formar part de la historia del lloc. Crec que aquest és el cas. De fet, tenia present aquesta inscripció des de una visita que vaig fer a Salses cap al 2001, però alsehores no portava càmera...
La inscripció tansols diu:
"W. Stutzke
Köln
1943"
Aparentment res de remarcable, si no fós pel context. Es avorridament usual trobar el nom, l'origen i la data d'aquells que decideixen fer malbé el patrimoni amb un punxó, boligraf o rotulador. Però fixem-nos bé. W. Stutzke és clarament alemany, i concretament de la ciutat de Colonia (Köln); i visità el fort de Salses el 1943! En plèna Segona Guerra Mundial. Cabria la possibilitat que 1943 fos el seu any de naixement, però dubto que la gent signi aquests graffittis amb aquesta informació, sino més aviat per recordar a tothom en quin moment ell ha estat allà. Per tant, l'alemany Stutzke va estar a Salses el 1943. Només pot tractar-se d'un soldat alemany, probablement de la guarnició de la costa nord-catalana, on ja s'estava construint els bunkers del Südwall. Recordem que la França de Vichy fou ocupada per la Wehrmacht el 1942 i fins l'estiu del 1944, en que es retirà.
Conec molt poc la ocupació alemana del Llanguedoc i la Catalunya Nord, però en tot cas la unitat alemana més important aquí fou la 271 Infanterie Division. Desconec el paper del fort de Salses durant la guerra, si tenia alguna guarnició militar o si tansols hi feien turisme, els soldats. Per altra banda no he trobat res d'especial sobre el cognom Stutzke a Colonia o al exèrcit alemany. Espero algun dia poder resoldre l'enigma. Algúna idea?
El fort de Salses és un molt important exemple de fortificació de transició entre l'època medieval i l'època moderna. Fou construit per Ferran II d'Aragó com a defensa de la frontera nord de Catalunya en front els francesos. Es construí sense reparar en despeses entre el 1497 i 1503, substituint el ja antiquat castell medieval (les restes del qual encara estan uns 500m al nord). Realment tingué una historia militar prou moguda, amb setges el 1503, 1639, 1640 i 1642. Els 3 darrers fou conquerida, però després de llargs setges.
Amb la signatura del desgraciat i maleït tractat dels Pirineus, el 1659, Salses perdé la seva importancia estragègica, i els francesos el reconvertiren en guarnició de reraguarda, polvorí i presó.
ca.wikipedia.org/wiki/Castell_de_Salses
==============================================
Visiting Fort Salses, but only with a guided tour, you can see this inscription. It is located above the walls, in a kind of terrace. Inscriptions on monuments of all kinds are, unfortunately, a pervasive thing, but they themselves can sometimes be part of the history of the place. I think that's the case. In fact, I had this inscription in mind since a visit to Salses around 2001, but at that time I did not have a camera at hand ...
The inscription simply says:
"W. Stutzke
Köln
1943 "
Apparently nothing remarkable, if not for the context. It is too usual to find the name, origin and date of those who decide to spoil the heritage with a knife, pen or spray. But let's take a look: W. Stutzke is clearly a German (Wilhelm??), and obviously from the city of Cologne (Köln); and he visited the fort of Salses in 1943! In the heat of World War II. 1943 might be his year of birth, but I doubt if people would sign these graffiti with this information, but rather to remind everyone when he was there that year. Therefore, a German called Stutzke was in Salses in 1943. He can only be a German soldier or officer, probably from the garrison of the North-Catalan coast, where the Südwall bunkers were already being built. Recall that Vichy France was occupied by the Wehrmacht in 1942 and until the summer of 1944, when it retired after the Normandy and Provence allied landings.
I know very little about the German occupation of Languedoc and Northern Catalonia, but in any case the most important German unit here was the 271st Infanterie Division. Problem is, that division only arrived here in force in early 1944; other low grade divisions served in the ocupation of the area in 1942 and 43. I do not know the role of the fort of Salses during the war, whether it had a military garrison or if it was only a tourist's visit. I hope someday to be able to solve the riddle. Some idea?
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fort_de_Salses
www.forteresse-salses.fr/en/Explore/History-of-the-monument
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/S%C3%BCdwall
www.axishistory.com/books/150-germany-heer/heer-divisione...
I was very worried for Beibei during the trip. He has a peculiar character and is very shy with strangers. He must had missed me terribly when I was away for the 2 weeks. My cat-sitter and house-sitters told me he would very often meow pitifully, almost to the point of crying, outside my bedroom door. He probably thought I was hiding inside and wanted me to come out. :(
Hunt Rettig artist.
From his website:
Bio
Hunt Rettig is known for his 3D assemblages that produce the illusion of 2D illuminated digital images. Self-taught, Rettig’s process-based discipline is a continual quest to transform quotidian material into the sublime. In Rettig’s hands, moldable synthetics and reflective acrylics become encapsulated sculptures implying kinetic movement if not actuating it. He has been drawn to the op and kinetic art movement since adolescence.
An explorer of both geographic and psychological terrain, Rettig is most at home on a dirt path or body of water observing “familiar patterns that connect us as one, like source code.” Biomorphic shapes seen in Rettig’s work suggest sensual elements omnipresent in nature. How connected are we? “If it didn’t exist, if it didn’t resonate, we wouldn’t be here.”
With the increasing internationalisation of architectural fashion and the omnipresent presence of architectural stars, are cultural diversities in decline? Or are the cultural roots so varied that the global convergence of ideals can never succeed? Do detectable examples of the decline of local cultures imply dehumanization? Is the One Thought of the Global World authentically people-centered?
And this would be the scene the artist was capturing.
About La Jolla Cove Sea Lions:
Courtesy of Mother Nature Network's Matt Hickman:
03 Jan 2014:
First neighbor-irking demolition projects and now the “foul, noxious, and sickening” stench of sea lion poop wafting in from the cove …
The blows truly seem to keep on coming for residents living in the sleepy seaside enclave of La Jolla, Calif. where plutocrat/prolific granddad Mitt Romney has already disrupted the peace by razing his modestly proportioned beach house with plans to erect a hulking mansion, complete with the largest basement known to mankind, in its place. On top of that, beleaguered La Jolla residents are struggling with an odor so pungent, so persistent that even celebrated boxing champ Floyd Mayweather has hightailed it out of there and fled for less rank grounds.
A collective of concerned La Jolla business owners calling itself Citizens for Odor Nuisance Abatement recently sued the city of San Diego in hopes that authorities will take action and do something about the source of the offending odor: a cluster of rocks in La Jolla Cove that are used by sea lions, cormorants, and other forms of marine life as a communal latrine.
Several years ago, city officials approved the construction of a white wooden fence geared to prevent people from getting too close to the sea lions, which, if you think about it, makes total sense as the blubbery beasts are federally protected from being harassed. But as the lawsuit alleges, because the fence prohibits people from accessing the rocks where they could potentially harm the animals or themselves, the birds and sea lions see absolutely no reason to move further out into the cove to take care of business. And without human interruption, the rocks have become the site of a big old poop party.
The lawsuit also notes that the omnipresent stench is particularly horrific due to the sea lions’ anchovy-rich diet — it "makes the smell much worse than it might otherwise be."
Due to the olfactory terror that’s gripped the area, the owners of a handful of upscale restaurants and hotels situated above La Jolla Cove have complained of lost business. As reported by the Los Angeles Times, La Valencia Hotel lost $5,000 in one day’s rooms revenue when Mayweather and his entourage checked into — and quickly checked out of 15 minutes later — two villas and six guest rooms because of the smell.
The city of San Diego has responded to similar odor complaints in the past including funding a $50,000 clean-up operation in early 2013 to rid the cliffs above La Jolla Cove of decades of accumulated bird poop. But as those living and working near the cove will probably tell you, the period of relief following the cleaning was short-lived and in recent months the displeasing aroma has returned worse than ever due in part to a surge in the sea lion population.
It's believed that taking down the fence and permitting people — people donning gas masks, no doubt — to access the bluffs again will once again bring relief, this time more long-lasting.
Just days prior to the lawsuit being filed, city officials actually did decide to install a gate in the offending fence that would allow people to access the bluffs and, in turn, keep defecating animals at more of a remove. Explains Alex Roth, spokesman for Acting Mayor Todd Gloria: "You can't put yourself in danger or actively harass the wildlife, but you can go down to the cliffs. We hope this will alleviate the problem."
Bryan Pease, a pro bono attorney representing Citizens for Odor Nuisance Abatement, thinks that the addition of the gate, which, again, was apparently not in response to the aforementioned lawsuit filed by his client, is a fine start in rectifying the “potential health hazard and serious public nuisance” — but not enough to do the trick. “I don't think this one small gate will be enough. There is another long, flat rock area that is still inaccessible and contributing to the odor,” he explains to the L.A. Times.
Courtesy San Diego Union-Tribune:
08 Jan 2015:
Residents exasperated with sea lions' stench in La Jolla Cove want to hire an animal behavior expert to train the creatures to stay away.
They propose hiring Precision Behavior, an Orlando-Florida based company that advises zoos and marine parks on animal behavior. Its consultants include former SeaWorld executive David Butcher.
La Jolla community members hope the company’s techniques could discourage sea lions from relieving themselves on the bluffs.
“It’s basically just an attempt to alter their behavior patterns,” said Norm Blumenthal, an attorney representing local residents and business owners. “It’s very reasonable.”
Dan Daneri, a recreation district manger with the San Diego Park & Recreation District, said the city met with La Jolla community members on Wednesday. Daneri and other city officials including Mayor Kevin Faulconer and Councilwoman Sherri Lightner, who represents La Jolla, did not say what action they are considering. It’s unclear whether the city would pay for the animal training service.
The picturesque cove has been in the headlines for several years, since pungent animal waste from birds and sea lions began driving away tourists and shoppers. A loose coalition of merchants and residents has complained that the stench could also be a public-health hazard.
In June of 2013, the city hired a contractor to apply a nontoxic bacterial solution that dissolved accumulated bird droppings from the cliffs, but the smell of sea lion poop persisted. In December of that year, a business group called Citizens for Odor Nuisance Abatement filed suit against the city in San Diego Superior Court, demanding that the officials eradicate the smell.
The following month, the city opened a gate to the bluff to allow public access, in response to suggestions that increased foot traffic in the area would safely ward away the sea lions. The smell has persisted, however, as the marine mammals continue to congregate there.
Blumenthal said a trial date is set for May 1, but City Attorney Jan Goldsmith plans to file a motion for summary judgment later this month, asking the judge to dismiss the suit, said spokesman Gerry Braun.
The group that brought the lawsuit says that animal behavior training could make the cove less comfy for the animals.
Precision Behavior officials including Butcher and company founder Angela Millwood did not respond to calls from U-T San Diego. The company’s website lists clients including Busch Gardens, SeaWorld and Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Florida, along with the Georgia Aquarium, the Forth Worth Zoo in Texas and numerous other U.S. and international animal and marine parks, and states that it employs positive reinforcement in animal training.
Blumenthal said those techniques could safely encourage the animals to go elsewhere.
“You come at night at certain times if they’re sleeping, so you change their sleep pattern, so it makes it more uncomfortable for them to be there,” he said. “No one likes to get their sleep pattern disturbed. That’s a big part of it.”
Blumenthal said the La Jolla group is waiting to hear back from the city on its proposal.
“As long as the smell is removed, without harming the sea lions, then everybody’s going to be happy,” he said.
Well, what a disastrous week.
Freshly outshopped 37402 hit the Cumbrian coast on Monday morning and spent the day plying its trade in full sun whilst I was trapped on a 10 hour shift.
Same thing happened the next day before it disgraced itself so I still haven't seen it in Large Logo.
Annoyingly I would have been able to see it on the following two days but it's been sitting at Kingmoor undergoing remedial work so that's that.
Had it not been on the naughty step it would have been powering Wednesday's 14.37 BIF - CAR but instead you've got the omnipresent 37401.
The only place with any decent sun when I left work yesterday was Maryport so here's the train passing what was once the site of its Coal Concentration Depot at Risehow.
The factories and turbines at Siddick provide the backdrop.
Dedicated to my dear friend Richard Lewis.
May your dad have found peace and rest there eternally. <3
Words could never begin to describe how you feel.
Photo Experience:
Beautiful day on the offshore waters of Key West aboard the Sea Eagle. Two dives on the Vandenberg, max depth of 107 feet, bottom times roughly 10 minutes at max depth, and
a one hour surface interval between dives. This shot was taken on return trip to key west.
A nimbus cloud front seemed to be working its way up the keys in a curved formation.
I am an avid sky and cloud watcher, nimbus being my favorite, so naturally, this
photograph is very personal to me. My favorite part is that although the water
is not glassy, you can still see the reflection of light off of the massive
nimbus formation. Please magnify for a better visual experience.
Thanks to all of those who gave feedback and made this
picture a great success. =) Cheers, Louie
Copyright Louis Wray 2011, All Rights Reserved
Please Contact Via Email for Print =)
louiswray@gmail.com
le thème de l'attente m'obsède depuis longtemps ; je reviens ici sur ce travail, l'attente, dans cette ville semble omniprésente ;
l'attente, -comme les voyages- sont un entre-deux, un interstice, une errance intérieure, un téléscopage de deux mouvements : le temps qui continue sa route, l'"attenteur" qui est comme bloqué dans sa route
l'attente peut aussi être contemplation...
At the end of the Milwaukee Road, the Chicago-Savanna, IL mainline was really beat up. There was no ballast to speak of, only dried mud to hold the ties in place. But the bolted rail was still fairly even and some of the hoggers would fly over the joints (I supposed it helped that they just flew over the low spots...). You could see the clouds of dust as they barreled along. That was the case on this May 6, 1984 as SD40-2s 158 and 192 came rattling along as viewed from the ICG overpass at Genoa, IL. The omnipresent cloud of dust followed obediently in the steel wake of gondolas, piggybacks and boxcars. Everything stayed upright and intact as the rib-sided caboose passed by and the dust settled once again.
Riquewhir, , Alsace, France.
Riquewihr en idioma francés, Reichenweier en alsaciano, es una localidad y comuna francesa situada en el departamento de Alto Rin, en la región de Alsacia.
Por su belleza y atractivo turístico es uno de los pueblos distinguidos por la asociación Les plus beaux villages de France.
Esta ciudad fortificada rodeada de viñas es una auténtica joya. En el pueblo de Riquewihr abundan las casas de colores con entramado con fachadas decoradas con viejos rótulos. Algunas casas están adornadas con bonitas ventanas saledizas. Las omnipresentes flores y plantas trepadoras refuerzan el atractivo del pueblo.
Para descubrir el patrimonio arquitectónico único de Riquewihr, lo mejor es pasear y admirar, en el ocio, los innumerables monumentos. Se puede descubrir el ayuntamiento de estilo neo-clásico. El castillo de Württemberg en 1539 ahora alberga el museo de la comunicación. Además del edificio notable, puede supervisar la posición a través de las edades. El antiguo patio de la Abadía de Autrey desde 1510 tiene un innegable encanto con su torreta ascendente desde el sótano hasta el ático y bóveda con ocho costillas apoyo a una terraza. Va a pasar por el Museo del Dolder. Esta entrada de la puerta fortificada de la ciudad tiene un campanario de 25 metros de altura con una cara exterior bélico y la apariencia benévola en el casco urbano. La torre de los ladrones 1550 es la antigua prisión. Se pueden visitar las cámaras de tortura y mazmorras húmedas donde matones estaban cerradas. Por último, paseando por las calles, se pueden admirar las fachadas de las casas de los siglos XVI y XVII incluidos en el inventario de monumentos históricos. Entre ellos, por nombrar algunos sólo por el bien de sus nombres tan evocador, la antigua casa de tonelería, la casa llamó a los ranúnculo y enólogos de casas esperan en silencio.
Riquewihr in French, Reichenweier in Alsatian, is a town and commune in the department of Haut-Rhin in the Alsace region.
For its beauty and tourist attraction is one of the villages distinguished by the association Les plus beaux villages de France.
This fortified town surrounded by vineyards is a real gem. In the village of Riquewihr, houses with colorful, half-timbered facades adorned with old signs abound. Some houses are adorned with pretty bay windows. The ubiquitous flowers and climbing plants reinforce the appeal of the town.
To discover the unique architectural heritage of Riquewihr, the best is to stroll and admire, in leisure, the countless monuments. During your no, you can discover the neo-classical style town hall. The castle of Württemberg in 1539 now houses the Museum of Communication. In addition to the remarkable building, it can monitor the position throughout the ages. The old courtyard of the Abbey of Autrey since 1510 has an undeniable charm with its turret ascending from the basement to the attic and vault with eight ribs supporting a terrace. You will pass by the Dolder Museum. This entrance of the fortified gate of the city has a bell tower of 25 meters of height with an external warlike face and the benevolent appearance in the urban helmet. The tower of the thieves 1550 is the old prison. You can visit the torture chambers and wet dungeons where thugs were closed. Finally, walking through the streets, you can admire the facades of the houses of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries included in the inventory of historical monuments. Among them, to name a few just for the sake of their names so evocative, the old coop house, the house called the ranunculus and house winemakers wait in silence.
Physician, photographer, musician/composer, author, world traveller & heartfelt advocate for those campaigns against LEPROSY. He is a witness ( via his photography) to the dire poverty so omnipresent on planet earth, in the hope that
Westerners and those more fortunate in their living circumstances can be more educated and enlightened to the plight of billions with whom they share the planet.
Unfortunately many westerners ( yes even here @ Flickr)
shun shooters like myself because of the harsh truths I reveal about humanity. Nothing i shoot is made up, alot of it is hard to swallow but IMHO needs to be seen, because it is sheer reality!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I do not judge others who choose to use their cameras to shoot the simple life that surrounds them .
It is my hope that others do not judge or object to my work in many third world nations including the richest nation in the world ................the USA.
Life is for learning.
There is both beauty and unsightliness in the planet.
I believe there is beauty in both.
I do have a website called
HEAVEN and HELL
that showcases the contrasting work I do. Please feel free to visit it.
_____________________________________________
on LEPROSY
www.youtube.com/watch?v=du1k6LR6Gl0
www.youtube.com/watch?v=6grLG3UUKNk
www.youtube.com/watch?v=P74S3gfVuxA&t=195s
www.youtube.com/watch?v=GfMipejEY7s
www.youtube.com/watch?v=-t38TiOFaMQ
Photography’s new conscience
Sun made its final peek before descending under a low cloud at sky floor while releasing its full glory onto a high cloud to bid farewell to 2017. This presents nature's count down and there is no "5-4-3-2-1" like those in Time Square but only with silence, peace, and omnipresent power. This moment largely inspires me! Time is defined by human and we live in our small world that overlook God's world where time and count-down already existed far before our presence..
A Canadian archaeologist and college professor, who was dating one of his students. When the universe was thrown into peril, he and a slew of other heroes were transported to Rann - the home planet of his girlfriend's father. He was eventually and accidentally merged with Zeta Beams, making him omniscient and omnipresent, until he was returned to normal after Convergence.
So, uh...New 52 Adam Strange? Cool design, terrible everything else. I mean, I haven't read the book, but oh my god did they convolute a perfectly simple and effective premise - and I spared you most of it!
One of those giant cruisers omnipresent in the old towns along the Adriatic cost. Kotor, Montenegro.
Gardens by the Bay (« jardins près de la baie ») est un parc naturel urbain situé dans le centre de Singapour.
S'étendant sur 101 ha et abritant près de 20 000 espèces différentes de plantes, ce parc fait partie d'une stratégie du gouvernement singapourien visant à transformer la « ville-jardin » en une « ville dans un jardin », avec comme objectif déclaré d'améliorer la qualité de vie en améliorant la verdure et la flore de la cité-État. Cité où la verdure omniprésente fait partie intégrante de son paysage urbain, les espaces verts couvrant plus de 50 % de son territoire.
Paseando por las calles de Lisboa en una agradable tarde verano. Es llamativo ver pequeños contenedores en las puertas de casi todos los edificios, así como bolsas de basura. Las omnipresentes vías del tranvía caracterizan estas pequeñas calles que suben hasta el barrio de Alfama desde Martim Moniz.
Català: Durant les dues visites que vaig fer al Bernina l'any 2010 (els mesos de març i de juliol) les unitats ABe 4/4 eren omnipresents en tots els serveis de la línia, mentre que els nous trens ABe 8/12 Allegra tot just començaven a fer-se visibles. En canvi, durant les vacances d'estiu del 2016 m'he trobat la situació inversa, amb una presència molt escassa de les veteranes ABe 4/4. A la foto, la unitat 3507 s'acosta a Pontresina amb el servei R 1641 St. Moritz - Tirano.
Castellano: Durante las dos visitas que hice al Bernina el año 2010 (los meses de marzo y de julio) las unidades ABe 4/4 eran omnipresentes en todos los servicios de la línea, mientras que los nuevos trenes ABe 8/12 Allegra tan solo empezaban a hacerse visibles. En cambio, durante las vacaciones de verano del 2016 me he encontrado la situación inversa, con una presencia muy escasa de las veteranas ABe 4/4. En la foto, la unidad 3507 se acerca a Pontresina con el servicio R 1641 St. Moritz - Tirano.
English: The train Allegra ABe 8/12 3507 approaches Pontresina with the service R 1641 St. Moritz - Tirano.
Riquewhir, , Alsace, France.
Riquewihr en idioma francés, Reichenweier en alsaciano, es una localidad y comuna francesa situada en el departamento de Alto Rin, en la región de Alsacia.
Por su belleza y atractivo turístico es uno de los pueblos distinguidos por la asociación Les plus beaux villages de France.
Esta ciudad fortificada rodeada de viñas es una auténtica joya. En el pueblo de Riquewihr abundan las casas de colores con entramado con fachadas decoradas con viejos rótulos. Algunas casas están adornadas con bonitas ventanas saledizas. Las omnipresentes flores y plantas trepadoras refuerzan el atractivo del pueblo.
Para descubrir el patrimonio arquitectónico único de Riquewihr, lo mejor es pasear y admirar, en el ocio, los innumerables monumentos. Se puede descubrir el ayuntamiento de estilo neo-clásico. El castillo de Württemberg en 1539 ahora alberga el museo de la comunicación. Además del edificio notable, puede supervisar la posición a través de las edades. El antiguo patio de la Abadía de Autrey desde 1510 tiene un innegable encanto con su torreta ascendente desde el sótano hasta el ático y bóveda con ocho costillas apoyo a una terraza. Va a pasar por el Museo del Dolder. Esta entrada de la puerta fortificada de la ciudad tiene un campanario de 25 metros de altura con una cara exterior bélico y la apariencia benévola en el casco urbano. La torre de los ladrones 1550 es la antigua prisión. Se pueden visitar las cámaras de tortura y mazmorras húmedas donde matones estaban cerradas. Por último, paseando por las calles, se pueden admirar las fachadas de las casas de los siglos XVI y XVII incluidos en el inventario de monumentos históricos. Entre ellos, por nombrar algunos sólo por el bien de sus nombres tan evocador, la antigua casa de tonelería, la casa llamó a los ranúnculo y enólogos de casas esperan en silencio.
Riquewihr in French, Reichenweier in Alsatian, is a town and commune in the department of Haut-Rhin in the Alsace region.
For its beauty and tourist attraction is one of the villages distinguished by the association Les plus beaux villages de France.
This fortified town surrounded by vineyards is a real gem. In the village of Riquewihr, houses with colorful, half-timbered facades adorned with old signs abound. Some houses are adorned with pretty bay windows. The ubiquitous flowers and climbing plants reinforce the appeal of the town.
To discover the unique architectural heritage of Riquewihr, the best is to stroll and admire, in leisure, the countless monuments. During your no, you can discover the neo-classical style town hall. The castle of Württemberg in 1539 now houses the Museum of Communication. In addition to the remarkable building, it can monitor the position throughout the ages. The old courtyard of the Abbey of Autrey since 1510 has an undeniable charm with its turret ascending from the basement to the attic and vault with eight ribs supporting a terrace. You will pass by the Dolder Museum. This entrance of the fortified gate of the city has a bell tower of 25 meters of height with an external warlike face and the benevolent appearance in the urban helmet. The tower of the thieves 1550 is the old prison. You can visit the torture chambers and wet dungeons where thugs were closed. Finally, walking through the streets, you can admire the facades of the houses of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries included in the inventory of historical monuments. Among them, to name a few just for the sake of their names so evocative, the old coop house, the house called the ranunculus and house winemakers wait in silence.
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click to activate the icon of slideshow: the small triangle inscribed in the small rectangle, at the top right, in the photostream;
clicca sulla piccola icona per attivare lo slideshow: sulla facciata principale del photostream, in alto a destra c'è un piccolo rettangolo (rappresenta il monitor) con dentro un piccolo triangolo nero;
Qi Bo's photos on Flickr Hive Mind
www.fotografidigitali.it/gallery/2726/opere-italiane-segn...
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"U sciccareddu", from the Sicilian "the little donkey", is a pyrotechnical-animal mask, once present in many village feasts in the Messina area, today it is found only in a limited number of centers, among these is the town of Casalvecchio Siculo , a small town in the hinterland in which there is another animal figure, that of the "camiddu", in Sicilian "camel", and of his camel driver (see a photographic story of mine made earlier in this regard). The feast of the "sciccareddu-little donkey" sees a young man of the village wearing a metal supporting structure, on which takes place a whole series of fireworks: this represents with no little imagination the donkey (this year it was the "Camel driver" of the "camiddu-camel"feast which is always celebrated in Casalvecchio); the young man who carries this metal castle on himself, protects himself abundantly from pyrotechnic fires, which form "crazy wheels" in correspondence with the "four limbs", pyrotechnic fires that involve symbolic-ritual suggestions of ambiguous meaning, is the life against death, the light against darkness, the fear and the desire to challenge it, without ever forgetting the horrifying-ancestral aspect of the "beast", which represents the dark unknown evil, which always hovers over people's lives. There are those who have hypothesized that this asinello-monstrous-orrify is a very meek animal too, once very common and omnipresent in the Sicilian districts, so that the fears that it could generate are simultaneously suppressed by being a well-known animal and very meek.
This "sciccareddu-little donkey" with its load of pyrotechnic-crazy fires-bengal fires, and other crackling devilries, challenges and is challenged by all present, young and old coming also from far away, there is who looks but remaining well sheltered, many others instead challenge him, as in a bloodless bullfight, where some unlucky person can receive a few small burns (like myself, who found himself with some small burns in his legs, and a lens-protection filter, it was almost melted-burned in several points, now useless, but withe the lens without problems.....! :o)) .......).
“u sciccareddu”, dal siciliano “l’asinello”, è una maschera pirotecnica-animalesca, un tempo presente in molte feste paesane del territorio messinese, oggi la si ritrova solo in un numero limitato di centri, tra questi il paese di Casalvecchio Siculo, piccolo centro dell’entroterra nel quale si trova un’altra figura animalesca, quella del “camiddu”, in siciliano “cammello”, e del suo cammelliere (vedi un mio racconto fotografico fatto in precedenza in merito). La festa dello “sciccareddu-asinello” vede un giovane del paese indossare una struttura portante in metallo, sulla quale prende posto tutta una serie di giochi pirotecnici: questo rappresenta con non poca fantasia l’asinello (quest’anno a dargli vita è stato il “cammelliere” della festa del “camiddu-cammello” che si festeggia sempre a Casalvecchio); il giovane che porta su di se tale castello in metallo, si protegge abbondantemente dai fuochi pirotecnici, che formano delle “ruote pazze” in corrispondenza dei “quattro arti”, fuochi pirotecnici che comportano suggestioni simbolico-rituali dal significato ambiguo, è a vita contro la morte, la luce contro le tenebre, la paura e la voglia di sfidarla, senza mai dimenticare l’aspetto orrifico-ancestrale della “bestia”, che rappresenta l’oscuro ignoto male, che aleggia sempre sulla vita delle persone. C’è chi ha ipotizzato che tale asinello-mostruoso-orrifico è pur sempre un animale molto docile, un tempo comunissimo e onnipresente nelle contrade siciliane, per cui le paure che esso potrebbe generare sono contemporaneamente soppresse dall’essere un animale ben conosciuto ed in definitiva molto docile.
Tale “sciccareddu-asinello” col suo carico di fuochi pirotecnici-girandole pazze-bengala, ed altre diavolerie scoppiettanti, sfida e viene sfidato da tutti i presenti, giovani e meno giovani provenienti anche da lontano, c’è che vuole assitere rimanendo però bene al riparo, molti altri invece lo sfidano, come in una corrida incruenta, dove qualche malcapitato può rimediare qualche piccola bruciatura (come il sottoscritto, che si è ritrovato con qualche piccola bruciatura alle gambe, ed un filtro proteggi-obiettivo che, me ne accorsi successivamente, era quasi fuso-bruciato in più punti, oramai inservibile, con l’obiettivo però salvo….! :o)) …).
Having passed Settle Junction, the Settle-Carlisle route begins and 60103 'Flying Scotsman' immediately gets stuck into the 1 in 100 climb heading the 1Z44 06:10 Derby to Carlisle 'The Hadrian' charter, the omnipresent black clouds looming ahead over Ribblesdale on 29th July 2017.
Copyright Gordon Edgar - All rights reserved. Please do not use any of these images without my explicit permission
Before the mountains were brought forth, or ever thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting to everlasting, thou art God. Psalm 90:2
Please press L :-D
Photograph for future use on my blog Surrender All
Within the timelessly abiding, omnipresent state―the true nature of phenomena―
there are no concepts of self or other,
and so the three realms themselves constitute a pure realm of natural equalness.
―Rabjam Longchenpa
Chapter 4 from A Treasure Trove of Scriptural Transmission
Riquewhir, , Alsace, France.
Riquewihr en idioma francés, Reichenweier en alsaciano, es una localidad y comuna francesa situada en el departamento de Alto Rin, en la región de Alsacia.
Por su belleza y atractivo turístico es uno de los pueblos distinguidos por la asociación Les plus beaux villages de France.
Esta ciudad fortificada rodeada de viñas es una auténtica joya. En el pueblo de Riquewihr abundan las casas de colores con entramado con fachadas decoradas con viejos rótulos. Algunas casas están adornadas con bonitas ventanas saledizas. Las omnipresentes flores y plantas trepadoras refuerzan el atractivo del pueblo.
Para descubrir el patrimonio arquitectónico único de Riquewihr, lo mejor es pasear y admirar, en el ocio, los innumerables monumentos. Se puede descubrir el ayuntamiento de estilo neo-clásico. El castillo de Württemberg en 1539 ahora alberga el museo de la comunicación. Además del edificio notable, puede supervisar la posición a través de las edades. El antiguo patio de la Abadía de Autrey desde 1510 tiene un innegable encanto con su torreta ascendente desde el sótano hasta el ático y bóveda con ocho costillas apoyo a una terraza. Va a pasar por el Museo del Dolder. Esta entrada de la puerta fortificada de la ciudad tiene un campanario de 25 metros de altura con una cara exterior bélico y la apariencia benévola en el casco urbano. La torre de los ladrones 1550 es la antigua prisión. Se pueden visitar las cámaras de tortura y mazmorras húmedas donde matones estaban cerradas. Por último, paseando por las calles, se pueden admirar las fachadas de las casas de los siglos XVI y XVII incluidos en el inventario de monumentos históricos. Entre ellos, por nombrar algunos sólo por el bien de sus nombres tan evocador, la antigua casa de tonelería, la casa llamó a los ranúnculo y enólogos de casas esperan en silencio.
Riquewihr in French, Reichenweier in Alsatian, is a town and commune in the department of Haut-Rhin in the Alsace region.
For its beauty and tourist attraction is one of the villages distinguished by the association Les plus beaux villages de France.
This fortified town surrounded by vineyards is a real gem. In the village of Riquewihr, houses with colorful, half-timbered facades adorned with old signs abound. Some houses are adorned with pretty bay windows. The ubiquitous flowers and climbing plants reinforce the appeal of the town.
To discover the unique architectural heritage of Riquewihr, the best is to stroll and admire, in leisure, the countless monuments. During your no, you can discover the neo-classical style town hall. The castle of Württemberg in 1539 now houses the Museum of Communication. In addition to the remarkable building, it can monitor the position throughout the ages. The old courtyard of the Abbey of Autrey since 1510 has an undeniable charm with its turret ascending from the basement to the attic and vault with eight ribs supporting a terrace. You will pass by the Dolder Museum. This entrance of the fortified gate of the city has a bell tower of 25 meters of height with an external warlike face and the benevolent appearance in the urban helmet. The tower of the thieves 1550 is the old prison. You can visit the torture chambers and wet dungeons where thugs were closed. Finally, walking through the streets, you can admire the facades of the houses of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries included in the inventory of historical monuments. Among them, to name a few just for the sake of their names so evocative, the old coop house, the house called the ranunculus and house winemakers wait in silence.
Photo André Knoerr, Genève. Reproduction autorisée avec mention de la source.
Utilisation commerciale soumise à autorisation spéciale préalable.
La locomotive Geaf 2/2 20606 stationne en gare de Landquart.
Les Capricorn ABe 4/16 3114 + 3127 assurent en UM un RE vers Davos Platz.
Les Capricorn sont déjà omniprésents sur le parcours Landquart - Klosters - Davos - Filisur.
24773
Seems that whatever the month, whatever the weather, the 7-spot is always around!
Merrington Green - Shropshire
Qu'on le serve en sorbet, en « entre-deux alcoolisé», en accompagnement du poisson grillé, en limoncello... Le citron sert à tout !!!
Le citron chez les papillons est reconnaissable, même en vol, grâce à sa couleur jaune vif. L'apparition du citron ( Gonepteryx rhamni ) au début du printemps est le signe que l'hiver est enfin terminé. Par un matin ensoleillé, parfois dès février, le papillon sort de sa torpeur hivernale à la recherche de nectar à butiner.
Il est répandu et généralement commun en Europe et d'une envergure de 6cm. Il choisit souvent le nerprun et la bourdaine comme plantes-hôtes.