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anonymusbosch · 9 months

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here's a tech tidbit for the day. in large part, the US's current lack of green energy isn't because the tech doesn't exist or that the tech isn't cheap/competitive with fossil fuels - it's because of bureaucratic tangles and permitting delays. Right now it can take new power projects five full years just to get approved to connect to the power grid. (On average, it's taking 3.7 years).

As of the end of 2021, there was over a terawatt of green energy storage waiting to get approval to connect to the grid. That's more than all the energy currently generated in the US. For the most part, these aren't completed projects waiting to connect - they're projects that are ready to build waiting for approval before they break ground, or are partially built and getting their application in so that they're not waiting between construction and transmission. Many requests in the queue will never get built (some because they can't afford to wait in line for five years, or lose land rights, or have their interconnect denied, or require costly restudies after design changes, or for unrelated reasons) but even if the historical rate of 25% of them were to succeed, that's still hundreds of gigawatts of power and enough to more-than-replace all the coal plants in the US.

That's not the only obstacle to construction (see also: transmission capacity, load balancing, environmental studies, permitting, and a host of other factors). To be clear: waving a magic wand and lifting this particular barrier wouldn't mean green energy right away forever. But this problem is a decent representative of the type of obstacle green energy faces. Generation and transmission of energy are - largely - cheap and efficient. Getting systems approved and integrated across a morass of local, state, and federal governments, utility companies, and ISOs? Slow and hard.

#green energy #perpetually:#there is a major roadblock #that roadblock consists of a real 'technical' problem (coordination integration and construction of large infrastructure)#and a real 'social' problem (coordinating among gvts. jurisdictions. public and private companies. states. etc for payment & responsibility)#compounded and multiplied by the current structure around that social task (often major improvements rely on some random gvt worker #in a small county in Arizona which does not have enough money to do this work quickly or well #in order to get power to Texas. e.g. And conversely #sometimes it's the structure of a legal requirement for a gvt to pick the cheapest option instead of the best #or the financing incentives that *discourage* utilities from building lr improving transmission lines #or. yknow. american-flavor capitalism aiming for quarterly investor financial reviews yoked to a bureaucracy that moves at 5-year speeds

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mariacallous · 11 days

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Russia's military intelligence unit known as Sandworm has, for the past decade, served as the Kremlin’s most aggressive cyberattack force, triggering blackouts in Ukraine and releasing self-spreading, destructive code in incidents that remain some of the most disruptive hacking events in history. In recent months, however, one group of hackers linked to Sandworm has attempted a kind of digital mayhem that, in some respects, goes beyond even its predecessor: They've claimed responsibility for directly targeting the digital systems of water utilities in the United States and Poland as well as a water mill in France, flipping switches and changing software settings in an apparent effort to sabotage those countries’ critical infrastructure.

Since the beginning of this year, a hacktivist group known as the Cyber Army of Russia, or sometimes Cyber Army of Russia Reborn, has taken credit on at least three occasions for hacking operations that targeted US and European water and hydroelectric utilities. In each case, the hackers have posted videos to the social media platform Telegram that show screen recordings of their chaotic manipulation of so-called human-machine interfaces, software that controls physical equipment inside those target networks. The apparent victims of that hacking include multiple US water utilities in Texas, one Polish wastewater treatment plant, and, reportedly, a French water mill, which the hackers claimed was a French hydroelectric dam. It’s unclear exactly how much disruption or damage the hackers may have managed against any of those facilities.

A new report published today by cybersecurity firm Mandiant draws a link between that hacker group and Sandworm, which has been identified for years as Unit 74455 of Russia’s GRU military intelligence agency. Mandiant found evidence that Sandworm helped create Cyber Army of Russia Reborn and tracked multiple instances when data stolen from networks that Sandworm had attacked was later leaked by the Cyber Army of Russia Reborn group. Mandiant couldn't determine, however, whether Cyber Army of Russia Reborn is merely one of the many cover personas that Sandworm has adopted to disguise its activities over the last decade or instead a distinct group that Sandworm helped to create and collaborated with but which is now operating independently.

Either way, Cyber Army of Russia Reborn’s hacking has now, in some respects, become even more brazen than Sandworm itself, says John Hultquist, who leads Mandiant’s threat-intelligence efforts and has tracked Sandworm’s hackers for nearly a decade. He points out that Sandworm has never directly targeted a US network with a disruptive cyberattack—only planted malware on US networks in preparation for one or, in the case of its 2017 NotPetya ransomware attack, infected US victims indirectly with self-spreading code. Cyber Army of Russia Reborn, by contrast, hasn’t hesitated to cross that line.

“Even though this group is operating under this persona that’s tied to Sandworm, they do seem more reckless than any Russian operator we’ve ever seen targeting the United States,” Hultquist says. “They’re actively manipulating operational technology systems in a way that’s highly aggressive, probably disruptive, and dangerous.”

An Overflowed Tank and a French Rooster

Mandiant didn't have access to the targeted water utility and hydroelectric plant networks, so wasn't able to determine how Cyber Army of Russian Reborn got access to those networks. One of the group’s videos posted in mid-January, however, shows what appears to be a screen recording that captures the hackers’ manipulation of software interfaces for the control systems of water utilities in the Texas towns of Abernathy and Muleshoe. “We are starting our next raid across the USA,” reads a message introducing the video on Telegram. “In this video there are a couple of critical infrastructure objects, namely water supply systems😋”

The video then shows the hackers frenetically clicking around the target interface, changing values and settings for both utilities’ control systems. Though it’s not clear what effects that manipulation may have had, the Texas newspaper The Plainview Herald reported in early February that local officials had acknowledged the cyberattacks and confirmed some level of disruption. The city manager for Muleshoe, Ramon Sanchez, reportedly said in a public meeting that the attack on the town’s utility had resulted in one water tank overflowing. Officials for the nearby towns of Abernathy and Hale Center—a target not mentioned in the hackers’ video—also said they’d been hit. All three towns’ utilities, as well as another, in Lockney, reportedly disabled their software to prevent its exploitation, but officials said that service to the water utilities’ customers was never interrupted. (WIRED reached out to officials from Muleshoe and Abernathy but didn't immediately hear back.)

Another video the Cyber Army of Russia Reborn hackers posted in January shows what appears to be a screen recording of a similar attempted sabotage of a wastewater utility in Wydminy, a village in Poland, a country whose government has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine in the midst of Russia’s invasion. “Hi everybody, today we will play with the Polish wastewater treatment plants. Enjoy watching!” says an automated Russian voice at the beginning of the video. The video then shows the hackers flipping switches and changing values in the software, set to a Super Mario Bros. soundtrack. The Wydminy facility didn't respond to WIRED’s request for comment.

In a third video, published in March, the hackers similarly record themselves tampering with the control system for what they describe as the Courlon Sur Yonne hydroelectric dam in France. In fact, the French newspaper Le Monde revealed Wednesday that they had instead accessed the control system for a small water mill running through a village of 300 people. That video was posted just after French president Emmanuel Macron had made public statements suggesting he would send French military personnel to Ukraine to aid in its war against Russia. The video starts by showing Macron in the form of a rooster holding a French flag. “We recently heard a French rooster crowing,” the video says. “Today we’ll take a look at the Courlon dam and have a little fun. Enjoy watching, friends. Glory to Russia!”

In their Telegram post, the hackers claim to have lowered the French dam’s water level and stopped the flow of electricity it produced, though according to Le Monde, they failed to even affect the small water mill they actually tampered with.

In the videos, the hackers do display some knowledge of how a water utility works, as well as some ignorance and random switch-flipping, says Gus Serino, the founder of cybersecurity firm I&C Secure and a former staffer at a water utility and at the infrastructure cybersecurity firm Dragos. Serino notes that the hackers did, for instance, change the “stop level” for water tanks in the Texas utilities, which could have triggered the overflow that officials mentioned. But he notes that they also made other seemingly arbitrary changes, particularly for the Wydminy wastewater plant, that would have had no effect.

“You can see them flipping through all kinds of stuff just to click the button,” Serino says. “I would say there’s some level of understanding but not a full understanding of how the system works.”

Signs of Sandworm

Mandiant found multiple strong clues that Cyber Army of Russia was, at the very least, created with support from Sandworm if not entirely controlled by that unit of the GRU. YouTube accounts for Cyber Army of Russia were set up from an IP address known to be controlled by Sandworm, Google’s Threat Analysis Group found. (Mandiant, like YouTube, is a Google subsidiary.) On multiple occasions, Sandworm has also carried out what Mandiant’s Hultquist calls “attack-and-leak” operations against Ukrainian targets: Sandworm would penetrate the victim's network and infect it with wiper malware to destroy the contents of machines—but not before stealing the data from the network, which in several cases was later leaked in posts on Cyber Army of Russia Reborn's Telegram account.

Hultquist notes that Cyber Army of Russia Reborn's relatively “haphazard” hacking—and its entirely faulty targeting of what the hackers may have believed was a French dam—doesn't appear to match the style of Sandworm, which has, despite its incredibly callous cyberattacks, shown somewhat more deliberation in its targeting and methods. That may suggest an unusual situation, one in which a state-sponsored group created a more grassroots front that has now gone on to carry out even more reckless operations of its own. The GRU, Hultquist says, has “probably been involved in creating this group and running it. If someone even more aggressive than them comes along and operates in that space, carrying out these attacks, they’re not entirely blameless.”

Even as Sandworm's apparent spinoff carries out its chaotic attacks, Mandiant's report notes that Sandworm itself has shifted somewhat away from the more opportunistic disruptive operations it has carried out in the past. In the first year of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, it launched repeated wiper attacks against Ukrainian targets—many of the relentless, quick-and-dirty data-destroying strikes that Mandiant had previously attributed to the GRU as a whole were specifically the work of Sandworm, it has now concluded. Sandworm also carried out a third blackout attack in 2022, this time in concert with a missile strike on the same area. More recently, however, Sandworm has increasingly taken on an espionage and support role for Russia's physical war effort, the company's report notes.

That more careful coordination with Russia's physical forces has included an operation in which Sandworm used a piece of spyware that US government agencies dubbed Infamous Chisel to infect Android devices used by the Ukrainian military for command-and-control, an apparent effort to gain battlefield intelligence. Mandiant also points to a website set up on a Sandworm-linked server that appears to be a tool for Russian troops to exfiltrate data from captured smartphones, including links for extracting messages from apps like Signal and Telegram.

“As their war aims have evolved, we've seen the group evolve as well,” says Dan Black, a Mandiant analyst and coauthor of its Sandworm report who served as NATO's deputy head of cyber threat intelligence until last year. Black says Sandworm, like much of the Russian military, has had to change its approach, adapting to that espionage and support role as Russia's initial aim of quickly toppling Ukraine's government has shifted into a protracted war of attrition. “What we see is a real pivot away from that wiping activity toward espionage for battlefield enablement,” Black says.

Even as Sandworm shifts into that more traditional military intelligence role, however, the Cyber Army of Russia group that it likely helped to create continues to run wild with disruptive operations, far beyond the front lines of Russia's war in Ukraine. If that spinoff hacker outfit is truly independent of Sandworm, Mandiant's Hultquist notes, that may mean it will continue to demonstrate even less caution or discretion than the GRU's own hackers have.

“Someone under this persona is doing some really aggressive stuff, and they’re doing it globally, and they could ultimately cause a very real incident,” Hultquist says. “If this is just some random group of hacktivists who lack the structure and restraint of a military organization, they may cross lines in ways that no one anticipates.”

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turtlesandfrogs · 9 months

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The more I read, the more fucked it is:

Some highlights: "Problem-plagued delivery systems have meant that entire neighborhoods like Ms. Quilatan’s along the Texas border have gone without water for hours or even days during the brutal heat that has gripped much of the Southwest this summer." "For families like the Quilatans who live in colonias, the impoverished settlements outside established cities that have always existed somewhat apart from the rest of Texas, just the ability to cool off has become a painful reminder of the social divide prevalent in border communities."

"In some parts of the state, the prolonged heat wave has led to a spike in heat-related fatalities and emergency room visits.

The disparity is more visible in the colonias, mostly unincorporated neighborhoods that often lack such basic services as running water, sewer systems, paved roads and streetlights."

"The excessive heat this summer has been deadly in Texas. The state has recorded at least 36 heat-related deaths so far this year, but officials warned that the figure was likely to rise, as it could take weeks to release a cause of death. In the border city of Laredo, 10 people died from heat-related problems between June 15 and July 3."

"The colonias — the word is Spanish for rural neighborhoods — have existed since the 1950s, when developers created unincorporated subdivisions with little to no infrastructure. Low-cost houses and plots of land there were sold to low-income, mostly Latino buyers, many of them recent immigrants. Today, an estimated 840,000 people live in colonias, in housing ranging from modern-looking suburban houses to partially built shacks."

"Some of the houses near her lack a roof or walls. Water pressure has always been spotty, she said, but the problems became more acute with the arrival of summer this year.

The water went out in mid-June and did not return until mid-July, she said. She quickly rallied her neighbors to pack meetings with the water district, Agua Special Utility District, to complain about the lack of water, to no avail. They were not given answers, she said. When the water did come back on, residents were advised to boil it before using it. “You could not trust the water when we needed it the most, if we had it at all,” she said."

"You drive around the block, and you see the carwashes using all of this water, but there is no water for a mother and her two children?” he said. “How is that possible? It’s like the colonias are part of a different country.”"

"Low water pressure and boil notices are common problems in her colonia, too. “I’m afraid to take a shower or even splash water on my face,” she said. “We were told not to let water get into our eyes.”

#heat wave #I'm too tired to tag #disparities and inequities #Cutting off water during a heat wave??????

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ridenwithbiden · 2 months

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THIS IS WHAT #DEREGULATION & #REPUBLICON #SENATORS #TedCRUZ & #GOVERNORS #GregABBOTT GIVE YOU.

DOWN BALLOT ELECTIONS MATTER.

"Xcel Energy facilities “appear to have been involved in an ignition” of a giant wildfire that’s been blazing across the Texas Panhandle since last month, the company said in a statement Thursday. The utility did not provide additional details on how it came to the determination, but said it was based on “currently available information.”

“Xcel Energy disputes claims that it acted negligently in maintaining and operating its infrastructure; however, we encourage people who had property destroyed by or livestock lost in the Smokehouse Creek fire to submit a claim to Xcel Energy through our claims process,” the statement said.

The Texas A&M Forest Service said Thursday investigators determined the Smokehouse Creek Fire - the biggest in state history, burning well over 1 million acres - and the Windy Deuce Fire were caused by power lines.

The forest service did not say whether the power lines that ignited the fires belonged to Xcel Energy.

The ongoing Smokehouse Creek Fire is the largest blaze in state history, burning more than 1,059,570 acres, according to the forest service. Two people have been killed in the blaze and authorities estimate 500 structures have been destroyed as a result."

#republicons #deregulation #ted CRUZ #greg ABBOTT #1 MILLION ACRES #UNNATURAL DISASTER

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dontmeantobepoliticalbut · 1 year

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Florida lawmakers will meet Monday to complete a state takeover of Walt Disney World’s self-governing district and expand a migrant relocation program, key conservative priorities of Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis ahead of his expected White House run.

Republican leaders of the statehouse, in coordination with DeSantis, have ordered the Legislature to convene in a special session to restructure the Reedy Creek Improvement District, as the Disney government is known.

Lawmakers will also consider a proposal to create a state department focused on migrant relocations, a move that comes after the Governor flew a group of South American migrants from Texas to Massachusetts in protest of federal border policy.

The session continues a focus by DeSantis on social issues including sexual orientation, gender and immigration as the Republican Governor exploits national political fissures on his path to a potential 2024 presidential run.

The meeting is the latest development in a high-profile feud between DeSantis and Disney over the company’s criticism of a law dubbed by critics as “Don’t Say Gay,” which bars instruction on sexual orientation and gender identity in kindergarten through third grade and lessons deemed not age appropriate.

The Governor, in going after Disney, displayed a willingness to penalize one of the state’s biggest employers and political donors, reinforcing the combative leadership style that has propelled him to national political stardom and appeals to conservative primary voters.

Lawmakers are expected to create a program to transport immigrants who are in the country illegally to another state if they’ve already been processed by the federal government and if the migrants volunteer.

DeSantis had already used part of a $12 million fund, paid for by taxpayers, to fly about 50 South American migrants from Texas to the Massachusetts resort island of Martha’s Vineyard, bringing widespread condemnation.

Another proposal to be taken up during the session would make it clear the statewide prosecutor has authority to prosecute election fraud in federal and state races.

DeSantis, with statehouse backing, created an election police unit last year to investigate fraud and other crimes to satisfy what has become an important issue to conservative voters following the 2020 election. Some charges resulting from investigations by the election police force have been dropped because of jurisdiction issues.

The squabble between DeSantis and Disney began last year, when the entertainment giant publicly opposed the “Don’t Say Gay” education legislation and said it would pause political donations in the state and support organizations working to oppose the law.

DeSantis and other Republicans moved quickly to criticize the company, calling it a purveyor of “woke” ideologies that are inappropriate for children.

At DeSantis’ request, the GOP-dominated statehouse in April approved legislation to eliminate Disney’s Reedy Creek government by June 2023, beginning a closely watched process that would determine the structure of government that controls the company’s sprawling property.

The creation of the Reedy Creek district was instrumental in Disney’s decision to build near Orlando in the 1960s. Having a separate government allows the company to provide zoning, fire protection, utilities and infrastructure services on its land.

The special session will also adjust language in current laws addressing endorsement deals for college athletes.

Florida was one of the first states to pass a law allowing college athletes to profit off their name, image or likeness, but it doesn’t allow people affiliated with universities to help secure endorsement deals. The proposal would lift that provision to make Florida more competitive with other states that don’t have the restriction.

Lawmakers will also consider a bill to provide more relief money for Hurricane Ian and Nicole recovery efforts.

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66-bl1tz-kr13g-fr1tz · 2 months

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//The Wire Weekly Rollup//February 18-24, 2024//

-----BEGIN TEARLINE-----

-International Events-

Red Sea/HOA: This week marked significant escalations in the region following the most successful targeting of a commercial vessel by Houthi forces so far during the Red Sea Crisis. Sunday night, the M/V RUBYMAR was struck with multiple projectiles, forcing the crew to abandon ship. Originally the vessel was reported as being sunk, but several days after the strikes, imagery obtained by the BBC confirms that the vessel is still afloat, albeit barely. The imagery confirms that severe flooding has caused severe trim to stern, so much so that her deck is awash at the base of the accommodation superstructure. Additionally, her bulbous bow was almost completely above the waterline in the photos provided. The RUBYMAR was allegedly towed into port Djbouti where salvage operations continue.

In response to the success of this strike, the next day Houthi forces targeted several other commercial vessels, including one which was delivering humanitarian aid to Yemen. The M/V SEA CHAMPION was struck with at least one Anti-Ship Ballistic Missile (ASBM), but was able to continue her voyage to the Yemeni port of Aden where she offloaded her cargo of grain. In the same engagement, the M/V NAVIS FORTUNA and the USS LABOON (DDG 58) were also targeted with missiles, the former successfully. An American MQ-9 Reaper drone was also shot down by Houthi forces during the escalation, which marks the second drone downed by Houthi forces since this conflict intensified in October, 2023.

Throughout the week CENTCOM forces have continued daily missile strikes against Houthi targets in Yemen. Very few details of these now-regular strikes have been made public.

-HomeFront-

NY: The revelation of a recent rule change has indicated that potentially tens of thousands of illegal immigrants have been allowed to receive substantial cash payments in addition to the monthly benefits already provided. This follows the announcement of $53 million in prepaid cards being issued to illegal immigrants in NYC, which includes payments of up to $10,000 per illegal immigrant, without any accountability requirements or checking identity documents. AC: Quietly passed last year, the New York Governor’s office changed the eligibility requirements for it’s Safety Net Assistance (SNA) program to include illegal immigrants. Though accountability is virtually nonexistent, city officials estimate that approximately 10% of illegals living in NYC (around 17,000) are receiving benefits through this program.

TX: Border situation continues as before, despite little independent media coverage of the truth on the ground. Events in the vicinity of Eagle Pass have largely developed into politics, with Shelby Park mostly serving as a location for photo opportunities or press events due to the halting of illegal immigration in this very small area.

Last week, Texas announced a $131 million plan to build a Forward Operating Base (FOB) near the southern U.S. border. FOB EAGLE BASE CAMP will be completed in September, and will reportedly be a larger version of similar camps already in place throughout the region.

Washington D.C. - The Biden regime has announced the cancellation of an additional $1.2 billion of student debt for approximately 153,000 people. To date, various federal entities have already canceled (or technically, transferred to the American taxpayer) over $138 billion of student loan debt from approximately 3.9 million individuals.USA: Thursday morning many cyber events were reported on a variety of platforms, utilities, and critical infrastructure. The main cyber impacts were to AT&T’s cellular network, with the majority of AT&T customers being without cell service for much of the day. In a separate incident, many pharmacies across the U.S. reported computer systems being offline, allegedly due to a cyberattack. Wells Fargo brokerage users also reported problems accessing their accounts Thursday morning. It is unclear as to if this was related to any of the other cyber events reported throughout the day. Occurring nearly simultaneously with the initial cellular outage, significant solar activity was observed throughout the day, but it is unclear as to how much this impacted telecom networks.

Friday afternoon, Pentagon officials (via CBS News) disclosed the interception of an unidentified high-altitude balloon flying at an altitude of 40,000ft over the western United States. The Pentagon released very little information regarding the object, but directly quoting the initial CBS report, “One official said the balloon was over Colorado earlier in the day and was expected to be over Georgia by Friday night. The official said the balloon appeared to be made of Mylar and had a small cube-shaped box, about two feet long on each side, hanging below it.”

-----END TEARLINE-----

Analyst Comments: This week has exemplified the harsh lesson that Murphy’s Law strikes at any time, but usually makes an appearance when least desired. Likewise, the desire to remain objective in the face of homeland threats being ignored by defense officials is exceptionally challenging, especially when every fiber of analytical being, combined with the wealth of American defense policy (and history itself) overwhelmingly indicating that airspace violations are usually a clear and present danger to a populace.

At minimum, these events (if viewed through a purely wholesome, coincidental, and innocent lens) are a fantastic lesson that whatever can go wrong, will go wrong. Even if all of the cyber events, cellular outages, systems failures, unidentified aircraft, and solar activity are all perfectly benign and unrelated to any sort of hostile act, the compounding of these events is a constant reminder to remain vigilant.

As very few details have been released regarding the high-altitude balloon, theories abound as to its purpose, none of which will likely be confirmed. Despite Pentagon statements, this balloon is not likely to be of civilian origin. The construction and size of the balloon’s payload, the lack of airspace deconfliction, the lack of required transponder data indicating the craft’s identity, the fact that no hobbyist group or commercial company has claimed the balloon, the flight level of over 40,000ft, and the ability to maintain that altitude without ascending or descending as it traversed the United States all strongly indicate that hobby use of this craft can be ruled out. However, though this does indicate both hostile intent and hostile action, this does not necessarily point to foreign use.

On the one hand, the presentation of this craft based on the information that has been made public clearly indicates that it may be a threat. On the other hand, this craft may also be American in origin; a secret reconnaissance platform that got caught by NORAD’s own defenses. The U.S. is certain to have been developing lighter-than-air reconnaissance craft, and extremely secret projects would not be disclosed to everyone that needed to know, including NORAD.With this in mind, understanding defensive capabilities with regards to these types of incidents is important. Thousands of unidentified aircraft are detected by NORAD each month, almost all of which remain unidentified. The fact that this particular craft was disclosed in such a way as to keep it quasi-secret indicates that this craft was different. Having a mylar construction is an indicator that it was not civilian in nature; along with the de facto admission by officials that the balloon was remaining at the same altitude as it traversed the United States. The tacit implication that the balloon was not transmitting location data is another strong indicator of nefarious intent. As such, the presentation of both a hostile act (being airborne without permission), AND hostile intent (no communications or response to IFF interrogation) confirms that this aircraft was indeed a clear and present danger to the American public, despite what defense officials have stated.

However, until Pentagon officials begin to tell the truth at press briefings, the American public would be prudent to treat these events more cautiously. Though it is always desirable to have a balanced view of world events, and avoid alarmist perspectives, in the fog of war it is sometimes acceptable to adopt a more cautiously defensive posture, and prepare for the more worst-case scenarios. In a dynamic situation, over-reacting to an unknown variable is preferable until more information can be obtained which more accurately outlines the threat (and hopefully lets everyone rest easy).

Red-teaming the balloon event both for posterity, and for future preparedness, if the high-altitude object was hostile or foreign in nature, this could represent a tactic utilized by national adversaries in time of war. Though it is generally unwise to base so much theory on so little information, we must consider all possibilities that are likely based on what little information has been released.

Understanding and discussing the potential is necessary, no matter how serious the implications may be. Though this is a purely speculative theory based on a hunch, the still-unidentified balloon could have been intended to take advantage of the cellular outage on Wednesday. The timing would have been perfect if the intent was to disable a large number of cellular comms, and surveil whatever signals remained. The balloon itself almost certainly didn’t cause the initial outage, but conducting reconnaissance in the wake of a cyberattack would have provided a wealth of intelligence on the backup procedures and frequencies used by military or governmental agencies during an event such as a national cyberattack. Having a birds-eye view to collect radio signals during communications blackout would be extremely valuable for military planning. Likewise, citizens should also be prepared for the contingency that foreign reconnaissance platforms may be launched from within the United States. Launching spy balloons from the hundreds of miles of terrain already owned by Chinese real estate syndicates would be a logical escalation of Chinese reconnaissance activity within the Homeland.

Analyst: S2A1

//END REPORT//

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katnissdoesnotfollowback · 11 months

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"He tells of the history of Panem, the country that rose up out of the ashes of a place that was once called North America."

(THG chapter 1)

"In school, they tell us the Capitol was built in a place once called the Rockies. District 12 was in a region known as Appalachia."

(THG chapter 3)

Where do you think location of Capitol and Panem's districts exactly?

The Appalachian’s span multiple states. Where do you picture District 12?

How long between this time and Panem rise? 200 hundred years? More?

Thank you so much

@curiousnonny

Dear @curiousnonny,

I have about six months of asks from you backed up in my inbox. Thank you so much for including me! Gonna try and work through these asks over the next week. :)

For this one, man. I would hope it'd take at least 200 years for the kind of falling apart that happens in order to create Panem. There's so much that has to happen to create that world. Katniss talks about wars and climate change leading to famine, scarce resources that tears apart what is now North America, plus she seems to have no knowledge of the world beyond Panem. Enough time has to pass for the rest of the world to be erased from Panem's history books and the general population's knowledge base. That knowledge, in Katniss's time seems reserved for a few highly educated, powerful people, like Plutarch who knows about ancient Rome. Then there has to be enough time to reestablish a form of government after everything falls apart. Enough time for THAT government to fail and cause the Dark Days war, when the Districts rebel, and then fail, resulting in 13's deal to play dead in exchange for being left alone. Snow is only a young boy when that happens, and even as a teenager in Ballads, he talks very little, if at all about the world outside of Panem. The rest of the world has already fallen out of the common memory when he's a boy. So I would actually estimate it at closer to 500 years from now.

As for geography, I've always pictured the Capitol being built in a place that's not an existing city right now. Mainly because of the infrastructure. In Mockingjay, Katniss describes the underground network of tunnels:

"There is a simple network of wide tunnels that directly corresponds to the major avenues and cross streets. It's called the Transfer, since small trucks use it to deliver goods around the city. During the day, its many pods are deactivated, but at night, it's a minefield. However, hundreds of additional passages, utility shafts, train tracks, and drainage tubes form a multilevel maze." (Chapter 21)

That sort of infrastructure is not easy to build beneath an already existing city, and I can't think of a single US city in the Rockies that has that kind of underground tunnel system, especially not one that's multilayered, holy cow is that hard to pull off. in such a large sprawl. Otherwise, Denver, Colorado would be an easy first guess for the Capitol, but I don't think that's where it is. My best guess is that the Capitol is a city that's barely developed right now and would have a chance at building something underground like the Transfer and the complicated tunnels Katniss describes. It's possible that the Capitol is actually in present day Canada, as well.

As for each of the districts, I know there's all kinds of maps out there but the ones that I have pretty set ideas on are District 13 is somewhere in Pennsylvania, 12 is in West Virginia.

11 fits way too many stereotypes of the agricultural Southeast, so it's hard to imagine it's anywhere else. Not to mention it's treated as the closest district to 12.

In the books, 10's industry is cattle farming. Hello Texas, how ya doing? 9 I picture as somewhere in the current Midwest -- Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa, that kind of area.

8 I always thought of as being northern Illinois, Minnesota or Michigan area. Textile industries have traditionally been in the Northeast of the US, not the northern Midwest, but there's also the mention of rising oceans making land scarce, so I wonder how much of the current Northeast would be underwater in Panem.

I picture 7 as being central Canada kind of area. I actually have no real set idea on 5 or 6.

In my head, 4 stretches along the Gulf of Mexico and possibly up the east coast a little bit, I pick this mainly because in Catching Fire, there's a scene when Katniss's prep team is getting her ready to have pictures taken in the wedding dresses Cinna has made for her and the Capitol is supposed to vote on which one she wears. Her prep team talks about how they couldn't get shrimp for a party "because the weather's been so bad in District Four." (Chapter 12) It's the shrimp that makes me think Gulf fishing, but Finnick's familiarity with a trident and spear fishing suggests a more old school east coast style of fishing as well. So I think Four is actually long and skinny, stretching along a large portion of coastline. Unfortunately, this makes the idea of a simple route counting down from 12 to 1 and ending in the Capitol for the Victory Tour nonsensical unless 4 stretches all the way over towards Mexico itself... OR the geography of Panem is not as simple as Katniss thinks it is. Also a possibility. After all, when she's getting to know Rue in the first book, Katniss wonders how much of their conversation will actually be aired since the Capitol has deliberately kept the Districts in the dark about each other, and Katniss knows they've done that.

I know a lot of people usually peg Silicon Valley in California for District 3, and I just kind of accept that I guess? I have no strong feelings on the matter lol.

2... Wyoming. In the Rockies with NORAD as either a part of their system or an inspiration for The Nut, close enough to the Capitol to be their lapdogs, a good place to draw Peacekeepers from but also to send errant Capitol citizens to train as Peacekeepers *cough cough Coryo cough cough* and Country enough to fit the characterization of Sejanus and his Ma. Although, Alaska is a close second for me on this one. It puts Two into the way far North though, and I'd think Katniss would comment more on the COLD when she visits 2 if it were that far North.

Aaaand finally... I waffle between Eastern California, Las Vegas area, up into the Pacific Northwest for District 1.

#curiousnonny #thg thoughts #anonymous #look at that ask

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mightyflamethrower · 6 months

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Study: Cost of ‘fueling’ an electric vehicle is equivalent to $17.33 per gallon

By Kenneth Schrupp | The Center Square

(The Center Square) – The complete costs of "fueling" an electric vehicle for 10 years are $17.33 per equivalent gallon of gasoline, a new analysis from the Texas Public Policy Foundation says.

The study authors say the $1.21 cost-per-gallon equivalent of charging a car cited by EV advocates excludes the real costs born by taxpayers for subsidies, utility ratepayers for energy investments, and non-electric vehicle owners for mandate-and-environmental-credit-driven higher vehicle costs, which they say total $48,698 per EV. Those costs must be included when comparing fueling costs of EVs and traditional gas-powered vehicles, TPPF maintains.

“The market would be driving towards hybrids if not for this market manipulation from the federal government. We’d be reducing emissions and improving fuel economy at the same time on a much greater scale,” study author Jason Isaac told The Center Square in an interview. He then cited Toyota estimates that the batteries from one EV can power 90 hybrids and reduce emissions 37 times more than that one EV.

The study adds up the costs of direct subsidies to buyers of the car and chargers; indirect subsidies in the form of avoided fuel taxes and fees, as well as electric grid generation, transmission, distribution, and overhead costs for utilities; and regulatory mandates that include fuel economy standards, EPA greenhouse gas credits, and zero-emission mandates.

Image courtesy of the Texas Public Policy CenterTexas Public Policy Center

The study also assumes EVs will be driven for 10 years and 120,000 miles, which the authors claim is a generous estimate. According to J.D. Power, EVs lose 2.3% of their range each year due to battery degradation, in part driving EVs to lose value faster than internal combustion cars.

With Ford losing an estimated $70,000 per EV and subsidies reaching $50,000 per EV, Isaac says the real cost of a vehicle such as a Ford Lightning is over $150,000, and those costs are carried by everyone, including non-EV owners and even Americans without cars.

“The real cost of a Ford Lightning is closer to $172,00 and no one would buy them at that. I know their sales have tanked. The [electric] Silverado sold 18 electric trucks last quarter,” Isaac said. “Buying a car is more expensive today and people don’t understand why that is. I’m trying to help them understand if they buy a gas or diesel car they’re paying for an electric vehicle for a wealthy EV owner.”

To reach the $17.73 per gallon equivalent figure, the authors created categories for costs borne by EV owners, taxpayers, utility ratepayers, and buyers of electric vehicles. For reference, the cost per gallon equivalent is computed by dividing the number of miles over a car’s ten year lifetime by the average new vehicle's fuel efficiency of 36 miles per gallon equivalent, and using that number to divide the total cost presented.

EV owners only pay $1.21 for the cost of residential electricity and $1.38 for charging and metering costs per equivalent gallon, which makes charging still cheaper than gasoline in terms of costs paid by EV owners. However, taxpayers pay $2.72 per gallon in federal and state EV buyer tax credits and rebates ($8,984 over a vehicle lifetime), a cost of $0.40 per gallon ($1,318 over a vehicle lifetime) in avoided charging infrastructure costs split between taxpayers and utility ratepayers. Utility ratepayers then pay $3.18 per gallon ($10,515 over a vehicle lifetime) in increased costs to enable the grid to charge electric vehicles at mass scale through increased power generation, transmission and distribution. Lastly, buyers of non-electric vehicles face increased vehicle costs equating to $1.48 per gallon equivalent ($4,881 over a vehicle lifetime) due to requirements in many states that manufacturers sell a certain number of often money-losing EVs to continue selling other cars, $1.01 per gallon equivalent ($3,322 over a vehicle lifetime) due to EPA GHG emissions standards, while Corporate Average Fuel Economy Credits add a whopping $5.96 per gallon equivalent ($19,678 over a vehicle lifetime).

CAFE standards are the single largest externalized cost of EVs, a cost that researchers attribute to the fact that automakers whose fleets do not meet the necessary average fuel economy must purchase credits from automakers with excess credits, with these credit markets worth billions of dollars per year and contributing $1.78 billion to Tesla’s bottom line in 2022. The average fuel economy of an average EV with a 300 mile range in 2021 was estimated to be 113 miles per gallon equivalent, making automakers strongly incentivized to build these often money-losing cars to meet CAFE goals. To increase the adoption of cars that don’t use diesel or gasoline, the federal government created a 667% multiplier in MPGe for vehicles that use alternative power. With a fleetwide CAFE standard of 37 MPG for 2021 and a 2021 EV rated at 113 MPGE, an EV is worth 507 MPG worth of credits, or more than what Ford loses directly on its EVs.

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houstontexaslandclearing · 5 days

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Maximizing Your Property Value with Professional Land Clearing Services

Understanding the Benefits of Professional Land Clearing

Professional land clearing Services in Montgomery County Texas can significantly contribute to increasing your property's value in several ways. Firstly, it enhances the aesthetic appeal of the land. Clearing overgrown vegetation and removing unsightly debris can transform an unkempt piece of land into an attractive and inviting space. This improvement in appearance can pique the interest of potential buyers or renters, leading to a higher market value.

Secondly, land clearing can increase the usability of your property. By removing obstacles, you create more usable space that can be developed or used for various purposes, such as agriculture, recreational activities, or the construction of buildings and infrastructure. This added functionality makes your property more appealing to a broader range of buyers, who may be willing to pay a premium for land that meets their specific needs.

Thirdly, engaging in professional and reliable land clearing can help mitigate potential risks associated with unkempt land. Overgrown areas can harbor pests, create fire hazards, and hide dangerous obstacles. By clearing the land, you reduce these risks, making your property safer and more attractive to both investors and insurers.

Forestry Mulching in Montgomery County Texas: A Case Study in Efficiency and Sustainability

Forestry mulchingpresents an innovative and environmentally friendly method of land clearing. This process utilizes specialized equipment to cut, grind, and disperse vegetation into a thin layer of mulch. This technique offers several advantages over traditional land clearing methods.

One of the primary benefits of forestry mulching is its efficiency. Traditional land clearing methods often require multiple steps, including cutting, hauling, and burning or disposing of vegetation. Forestry mulching, on the other hand, completes the clearing and mulching processes in a single step. This not only saves time and reduces labor costs but also minimizes the disturbance to the soil and surrounding environment.

Furthermore, forestry mulching promotes environmental sustainability. The mulch layer left behind adds nutrients to the soil, supports erosion control, and helps retain moisture. This approach encourages a healthier ecosystem and ensures that the land remains fertile and usable for future generations.

Choosing the Right Professional Land Clearing Service

When considering professional land clearing services, it's essential to choose a reputable and experienced provider. Look for companies that offer a range of services tailored to your specific needs, including forestry mulching if you're in Montgomery County Texas or other regions where this method is suitable. Ensure that the company follows best practices for safety and environmental protection.

In addition, seek out providers that offer comprehensive consultation and planning services. A good land clearing service will work with you to understand your goals for the property and develop a customized plan that maximizes its value while minimizing environmental impact.

Conclusion

Professional land clearing services, particularly forestry mulching, offer a practical and sustainable solution for enhancing your property's value. By improving the appearance, usability, and safety of your land, you can attract more buyers, command higher prices, and ensure the long-term viability of your property. With the right service provider, you can transform your land into a valuable and desirable asset.

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wanderlustwhims · 6 days

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𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞: 𝐓𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐥 𝐄𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐠𝐲 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐬

𝐑𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐞𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞 𝐏𝐃𝐅 𝐑𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭: https://www.nextmsc.com/thermal-energy-harvesting-market/request-sample?utm_source=simran_linkedin&utm_medium=simran_ip&utm_campaign=simran_thermal_energy_harvesting&utm_id=simran_apr&utm_term=simran_ip&utm_content=simran_ip

The growing need for energy-efficient solutions propels the expansion of the thermal harvesting market, offering a dependable and economical means to produce electricity. Thermal harvesting technologies utilize waste heat from diverse industrial processes, exhaust systems, and similar sources to generate power, thus enhancing overall energy efficiency and sustainability.

However, the high initial investment required to set up the infrastructure and limited availability of heat sources to generate energy is the major factors restraining the growth of the market. On the contrary, the introduction of hybrid thermal-electric systems.

𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐞𝐭 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐞𝐫𝐬:

ABB

Analog Devices Inc.

Texas Instruments Incorporated

Cymbet Corporation

EnOcean GmbH

STMicroelectronics N.V

e-peas SA

Advanced Linear Devices Inc.

ICE Thermal Harvesting LLC

𝐀𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭: https://www.nextmsc.com/report/thermal-energy-harvesting-market?utm_source=simran_linkedin&utm_medium=simran_ip&utm_campaign=simran_thermal_energy_harvesting&utm_id=simran_apr&utm_term=simran_ip&utm_content=simran_ip

#marketinsights #marketstrategy #markettrends #globaltrends #marketgrowth #market trends #globalinsights #marketresearch

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texasconsultingfirmseo · 7 days

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Efficient Solutions, Exceptional Results: Outsourced Accounting with Texas Consulting Firm

In today's dynamic business landscape, companies are continually seeking ways to streamline their operations while maximizing productivity and efficiency. One of the most effective strategies to achieve these goals is by outsourcing non-core functions such as accounting. Outsourcing accounting services not only allows businesses to focus on their core competencies but also provides access to specialized expertise and resources. Texas Consulting Firm offers comprehensive outsourced accounting solutions tailored to meet the unique needs of businesses, delivering efficient solutions and exceptional results.

Outsource accounting has become increasingly popular among businesses of all sizes, providing numerous benefits such as cost savings, scalability, and access to advanced technology. By partnering with Texas Consulting Firm for outsourced accounting services, businesses can leverage the expertise of seasoned professionals who understand the intricacies of financial management.

One of the primary advantages of outsourcing accounting is cost-effectiveness. By outsourcing accounting functions, businesses can eliminate the need for hiring and training in-house staff, as well as investing in costly accounting software and infrastructure. Texas Consulting Firm offers competitive pricing structures, allowing businesses to reduce overhead costs while gaining access to high-quality accounting services.

Moreover, outsourced accounting services provide scalability, enabling businesses to adjust resources based on fluctuating demand. Whether a business is experiencing rapid growth or facing seasonal fluctuations, Texas Consulting Firm can scale its services accordingly, ensuring optimal efficiency and resource utilization.

Another key benefit of outsourcing accounting is access to advanced technology and expertise. Texas Consulting Firm utilizes cutting-edge accounting software and tools to streamline processes, improve accuracy, and enhance decision-making. Their team of experienced accountants stays updated with the latest industry trends and regulations, ensuring compliance and efficiency in financial operations.

Outsourcing accounting services also frees up valuable time and resources for businesses to focus on core activities and strategic initiatives. By delegating routine accounting tasks to Texas Consulting Firm, businesses can redirect their efforts towards revenue-generating activities, innovation, and growth.

Texas Consulting Firm offers a comprehensive range of Outsourced Accounting Service, including bookkeeping, financial reporting, budgeting, tax preparation, and payroll processing. Their team works closely with clients to understand their unique needs and develop customized solutions that drive value and efficiency.

Whether a small startup or a large corporation, businesses can benefit from outsourcing accounting services with Texas Consulting Firm. Their commitment to delivering efficient solutions and exceptional results sets them apart as a trusted partner in financial management.

In conclusion, outsourcing accounting with Texas Consulting Firm offers businesses a strategic advantage by providing cost-effective, scalable, and expert-led solutions. By partnering with Texas Consulting Firm, businesses can streamline their financial operations, enhance efficiency, and focus on driving growth and success. Experience the benefits of outsourced accounting services with Texas Consulting Firm and unlock your business's full potential.

#Outsourced Accounting Service #Outsource accounting

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coreenergymanagment · 11 days

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The Future of Permian Basin Energy is Here: Core Energy Management

The Permian Basin, stretching across West Texas and southeastern New Mexico, has long been a cornerstone of American energy production. This prolific basin holds some of the richest oil and gas reserves in the world, and continues to be a critical player in the global energy market. However, the Permian Basin is not just about vast resources – it's a story of constant innovation and adaptation.

At Core Energy Management, we are Permian Basin experts. We leverage our deep understanding of the region and our commitment to cutting-edge technology to empower oilfield service companies to achieve their energy goals. In this blog, we'll delve into the Permian Basin's unique landscape, the challenges and opportunities it presents, and how innovation is shaping its future.

A Legacy of Production

The Permian Basin's history dates back over a century, with the first major oil discovery occurring in 1921 near McCamey, Texas. Since then, the basin has produced billions of barrels of oil and trillions of cubic feet of natural gas. The Permian Basin's allure lies in its multiple stacked reservoirs, each containing vast quantities of hydrocarbons. The geology of the basin allows for efficient extraction using horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing techniques.

The Shale Revolution and a Renewed Focus

The early 2010s saw the rise of the shale revolution, with the unlocking of vast reserves trapped within unconventional shale formations. The Permian Basin, particularly the Wolfcamp and Spraberry formations, became a prime target for shale oil and gas exploration. This new wave of development brought a surge in production, making the Permian Basin the most prolific oil basin in the United States.

Challenges and Opportunities

The Permian Basin is not without its challenges. One major hurdle is infrastructure constraints. The rapid growth in production has strained existing pipelines and transportation networks. This has led to bottlenecks and price volatility, highlighting the need for investment in infrastructure expansion.

Another key challenge is environmental responsibility. The oil and gas industry faces increasing scrutiny regarding its impact on the environment. Companies in the Permian Basin are actively seeking solutions to reduce emissions and minimize their environmental footprint. This includes adopting cleaner technologies, capturing and utilizing methane gas, and implementing water conservation measures.

Despite these challenges, the Permian Basin remains a land of opportunity. The vast resource potential, combined with ongoing technological advancements, promises a continued bright future for the region.

Innovation: The Engine of Progress

The Permian Basin has always been a breeding ground for innovation. Core Energy Management is a prime example, leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) to optimize energy use, track and reduce carbon emissions, and increase operational resilience for our clients. AI-powered solutions can analyze vast amounts of data to optimize well completion strategies, predict production trends, and identify potential maintenance issues.

Other innovative technologies are transforming the Permian Basin landscape. Real-time data monitoring allows for closer control over operations, reducing safety risks and improving efficiency. Automation is playing an increasingly important role, with robots and drones performing tasks that were once manual. These advancements not only enhance productivity but also contribute to a safer work environment.

Core Energy Management: Your Permian Basin Partner

At Core Energy Management, we understand the unique complexities of the Permian Basin. Our team of experienced professionals possesses a deep understanding of the region's geology, regulations, and operational challenges. We are committed to providing our clients with innovative solutions that optimize energy production, reduce environmental impact, and ensure safety.

Whether you're an established oilfield service company or a new player entering the Permian Basin, Core Energy Management can be your trusted partner. We offer a comprehensive suite of services designed to help you achieve your goals in this dynamic and ever-evolving environment.

The Future of the Permian Basin

The Permian Basin's future is bright. With continued technological innovation, a focus on environmental responsibility, and strategic infrastructure development, the basin is poised to remain a major energy producer for decades to come. Core Energy Management is committed to playing a vital role in this future, empowering our clients to operate efficiently, sustainably, and profitably.

Contact Core Energy Management Today

If you're looking to unlock the full potential of your Permian Basin operations, contact Core Energy Management today. Let our team of experts help you navigate the complexities of the region and achieve your energy goals. Visit our website at Core Energy Management to learn more about our services and how we can be your partner in success.

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easttexaslandclearing · 11 days

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Maximizing Your Property Value with Professional Land Clearing Services

In today's competitive real estate market, property owners are constantly seeking innovative ways to enhance the value of their properties. One effective strategy that has gained popularity is professional land clearing. This process involves removing trees, stumps, brush, and other obstacles from a piece of land, thereby making it more accessible, usable, and appealing. Specifically, forestry mulching in Chester Texas has emerged as a cutting-edge method within this field, offering an eco-friendly and efficient approach to land clearing. Understanding the Benefits of Professional Land Clearing Professional land clearing Services in Chester Texas can significantly contribute to increasing your property's value in several ways. Firstly, it enhances the aesthetic appeal of the land. Clearing overgrown vegetation and removing unsightly debris can transform an unkempt piece of land into an attractive and inviting space. This improvement in appearance can pique the interest of potential buyers or renters, leading to a higher market value. Secondly, land clearing can increase the usability of your property. By removing obstacles, you create more usable space that can be developed or used for various purposes, such as agriculture, recreational activities, or the construction of buildings and infrastructure. This added functionality makes your property more appealing to a broader range of buyers, who may be willing to pay a premium for land that meets their specific needs. Thirdly, engaging in professional and reliable land clearing can help mitigate potential risks associated with unkempt land. Overgrown areas can harbor pests, create fire hazards, and hide dangerous obstacles. By clearing the land, you reduce these risks, making your property safer and more attractive to both investors and insurers. Forestry Mulching in Chester Texas: A Case Study in Efficiency and Sustainability Forestry mulching presents an innovative and environmentally friendly method of land clearing. This process utilizes specialized equipment to cut, grind, and disperse vegetation into a thin layer of mulch. This technique offers several advantages over traditional land clearing methods. One of the primary benefits of forestry mulching is its efficiency. Traditional land clearing methods often require multiple steps, including cutting, hauling, and burning or disposing of vegetation. Forestry mulching, on the other hand, completes the clearing and mulching processes in a single step. This not only saves time and reduces labor costs but also minimizes the disturbance to the soil and surrounding environment. Furthermore, forestry mulching promotes environmental sustainability. The mulch layer left behind adds nutrients to the soil, supports erosion control, and helps retain moisture. This approach encourages a healthier ecosystem and ensures that the land remains fertile and usable for future generations. Choosing the Right Professional Land Clearing Service When considering professional land clearing services, it's essential to choose a reputable and experienced provider. Look for companies that offer a range of services tailored to your specific needs, including forestry mulching if you're in Chester Texas or other regions where this method is suitable. Ensure that the company follows best practices for safety and environmental protection. In addition, seek out providers that offer comprehensive consultation and planning services. A good land clearing service will work with you to understand your goals for the property and develop a customized plan that maximizes its value while minimizing environmental impact. Conclusion Professional land clearing services, particularly forestry mulching, offer a practical and sustainable solution for enhancing your property's value. By improving the appearance, usability, and safety of your land, you can attract more buyers, command higher prices, and ensure the long-term viability of your property. With the right service provider, you can transform your land into a valuable and desirable asset.

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drewssam · 15 days

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Argo Blockchain Will Sell Helios to Galaxy Digital to Avoid Bankruptcy

Argo Blockchain, a Bitcoin mining company, has struck a deal with Galaxy Digital to sell its Helios mining facility in Texas for $65 million, helping it avoid bankruptcy protection. This move has seen Argo's London-listed shares surge by 120% to 8.5 pence in early trading, a significant rebound from a 92% decline earlier in the year.

The agreement includes the refinancing of Argo's loans with a new $35 million credit from Galaxy, resulting in a reduction of its overall indebtedness by $41 million. Galaxy Digital aims to utilize the transaction to accelerate the expansion of its own bitcoin mining operations, gain access to tax-efficient mining infrastructure, and reduce reliance on third-party hosting providers.

Helios, operational since May 2022 and spanning approximately 160 acres, employs about 40 individuals overseeing day-to-day operations. Galaxy plans to position Helios as its flagship proprietary mining facility, retaining its entire operational staff and offering hosting services for external bitcoin miners to generate additional revenue.

Furthermore, Galaxy has committed to funding the various community initiatives initiated by Argo since the inception of the Helios construction project. This acquisition marks a significant milestone for Galaxy, enhancing its operational footprint and range of services in the decentralized digital asset network.

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dontmeantobepoliticalbut · 11 months

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Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is a favorite target of the right. Conservatives appear to have difficulty handling the most senior gay official in the U.S. government with a husband, Chasten, and children. The Buttigieg kids, Penelope and Gus, have been in the world for over two years, and Republican voters remain obsessed with their parents.

Throughout it all, Buttigieg faced political attacks from those on the right who otherwise praised “strong family values.”

It is, therefore, no surprise that Buttigieg is keenly aware of the realities LGBTQ+ people face in 2023 as conservatives attack the community and LGBTQ+ people from American society through targeted legislation intended to limit discussion of sexual orientation, gender identity, and books, as well as eliminate essential health care for transgender people.

“I think it’s gotten worse,” Buttigieg told Time during a recent interview. “I think we’re actually in an exceptionally ugly moment in terms of some figures deciding that there’s utility, political utility, in targeting trans people and LGBTQ people more generally,” before pointing to Republicans who voted against last year’s Respect For Marriage Act, which provides some protections for same-sex and interracial marriages. The bill, which received overwhelming support from Democrats, was opposed by 36 Republican senators and 169 Republican representatives.

“I mean, look how many people voted against marriage equality—which should have been an easy one—just as recently as a few months ago. And so I think it’s a reminder that none of what’s been gained is really locked in.”

Gallup reports that more than 71% of Americans favor marriage equality.

In light of the recent ruling of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade, Buttigieg warns that a Supreme Court decision also ushered in marriage equality, and the Justices have proved themselves capable of overturning established precedent.

“I don’t think anything is safe. I mean, Roe fell, and that was the law of the land for longer than I’ve been alive. Nothing is safe. Especially right now,” Buttigieg said.

Currently, LGBTQ+ rights in this country face a terrifying reality. Far-right provocateurs and lawmakers have moved on to identity politics after the court's decision.

These policies do not help Republicans win over middle-class voters, despite the praise of hard-right lawmakers. While Buttigieg acknowledges the privileges he enjoys, he believes this approach will fail.

“The situation of an upper-middle-class, married white gay dude is not the same as a trans kid in Texas or any number of LGBTQ people of color trying to survive right now,” he said. “They see political value in this. I see not only distraction but a very real harm that’s being done. And that’s gonna persist until they figure out that it is not rewarding politically for them.”

One of the GOP candidates for president in 2024 has gone all in on hatred of LGBTQ+ people. As Florida’s Governor, Ron DeSantis has unapologetically targeted queer people in his state, and it appears that that disdain extends to his professional interactions with Buttigieg.

One example is a proposed rail line connecting Miami to Tampa via a station near Disney World near Orlando. Federal infrastructure dollars could be a big boon to the state. As a result of its dispute with DeSantis, the company canceled an expansion of $1 billion and the construction of a station at Disney Springs.

According to Time, the train will instead head to the Orange County Convention Center in central Florida, but the longer it lingers, the less likely a Washington cash infusion will be.

Despite his best efforts, Buttigieg said he has yet to speak with DeSantis about transportation issues. Buttigieg noted that he has called DeSantis but has yet to talk to him.

“I’ve never heard from this Governor, and it’s not because I’ve never called him. We’ve never spoken. What I will say is we’ve done a lot of good work with the Florida Department of Transportation,” Buttigieg said. “We try to work around and through all that to just get stuff done. A huge amount of energy and effort is being wasted in these dumb fights. And that’s really unfortunate. It’s policy waste in order to achieve political benefit or perceived political benefit.”

Buttigieg added, “He’s more worried about Bud Light or Disney or whatever.”

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