What you didn’t know about Johannesburg.
- Modern Johannesburg was born 130 years ago, after gold was discovered
- It’s a city with an open, friendly atmosphere
- Earliest inhabitants can be traced back 3 million years
It’s hard to believe Johannesburg didn’t exist 130 years ago.
It used to be a dusty, one-horse kind of place where a few farmers created a living from the land, although traces of early human habitation go back millions of years.
Modern Johannesburg was born with the discovery of gold.
Almost overnight, it became one of the fastest-growing cities in the world as fortune-seekers rushed in.
The stories that make up the Joburg’s past shape its character today, rewarding visitors who venture beyond the sanitized streets of wealthy Sandton to discover the real heartbeat of Egoli, the “City of Gold,” as it is also known.
It has golden foundations
The richest city in South Africa, Joburg is also one of the biggest economies in Africa overall — its wealth built upon that discovery of gold in the late 1800s.
“There was no indigenous population, no water and the only reason for this city’s existence was the discovery of gold,” says Nechama Brodie, editor of The Joburg Book, a guide to the history of the city.
“It laid the foundation for everything else that happened, even the layout of the roads.”
Within a few years, Joburg had become like an African Las Vegas, its wagons and tents transformed into brick buildings and the dusty gathering places become thriving market squares.
But the wealth came at a cost: poverty forced many Africans to work in the mines and they lived in terrible conditions.
Nowadays, gold is no longer such a significant part of Joburg’s economy.
But that frontier spirit — a sense that anything is possible — remains and continues to attract people.
Gold Reef City, south of Joburg, provides a glimpse of the city‘s golden past. Sure, it’s a bit kitsch but the recreated mining town features an original mine shaft you can ride down and you also get the chance to pan for gold.
Standard Bank in the CBD or Central Business District (5 Simmonds St.) features a small museum around a mine shaft inside the building, and from the top of the 50-storey Carlton Center (152 Commissioner St.) you have a good view of the mine dumps surrounding the city.
Past Experiences is one of the best companies for walking tours around the CBD.
Some of humankind’s oldest traces have been found here
Johannesburg has one of the longest recorded histories of human habitation in the world.
The earliest residents can be traced back 3 million years — their presence preserved in a World Heritage Site called the Cradle of Humankind 50 kilometers north of the city.
The area has been the scene of some of the world’s most important paleontological finds, including the perfectly preserved hominid skeleton “Little Foot.”
Maropeng, the visitor center housed within a giant grassy mound, has displays showing humankind’s journey through time.
You can also walk through the Sterkfontein Caves, scene of some of the most exciting archaeological finds in the area.
Museum Africa has a wide range of displays exploring Africa’s first civilizations.
Melville Koppies , a nature reserve in the heart of Joburg with evidence of Stone Age settlements, is a good place to escape the hectic pace of the city. It’s inadvisable to go here alone, so join a guided walk.


Back in 1873 a young entrepreneur named Gerard Heineken discovered a passion for brewing and set about building a brewery in the heart of Amsterdam and perfecting the recipe that would soon become Holland’s first ‘premium’ lager beer Heineken.
Gerard’s uncompromised drive for quality and perfection still lives on within the Heineken family who four generations later, remain passionate about brewing a truly premium beer for the world. So wherever you are, you can be certain that the same dedication, craftsmanship and quality put into making Heineken in 1873 is still alive in every bottle today.
Same taste. Same craftsmanship. Same original quality.


As a highschool sophomore in 2010, our founder Ken received his first Android device. The device was quickly rooted, and a whole new world of development was opened up.
FutureHax originally began as T3hh4xx0r, focused on the development of the OMGB and OMFGB open source Android ROMs. We eventually ended up supporting well over 20 devices with a fully AOSP and a custom version of android we shipped as OMFGB.
After graduation, Ken moved to Florida with Azrinoch of XDA Developers and began his professional development career. Within a few years, it became obvious that there were more interesting opportunities available than what was to be found locally, and thus FutureHax was began in its current form.
We have since grown, expanding our operations from just Android, and then to beyond mobile. These days we look forward to the opportunity to work on projects pushing the boundaries of what is thought possible.


The Museum of National History at the Buffalo Bill Historical Society needed some bugs taken out of a CD-ROM about wild horses called Unbroken Spirit. It was written in Director and used sound and Quicktime extensively. I figured out how the program worked and made the changes successfully in a short time.
BACK to Portfolio Index of James "Newt" Perdue
Screen image Copyrighted by Buffalo Bill Historical Society, Cody, WY


The Shivwits Project
Collaboration & Community
Legacy Fields at Shivwits Conceptual Landscape Plan
19 ACRES | 4 FIELDS | COUNTLESS GAMES & EVENTS
Completion expected in late 2022
What are the benefits to the local community?
The Legacy Fields Soccer Complex at Shivwitz will benefit the community in several ways.
The complex will provide a much-needed location for sporting events such as games and events.
The events held at the complex will increase the number of visitors to St. George, which will strength the community’s economy.
This project will also allow the community members to develop a greater understanding of and appreciation for The Shivwits Band and Southern Paiute culture.
What are the benefits to The Shivwits Band of Paiutes?
The complex will provide The Shivwits Band of Paiutes with an additional revenue source as the complex will be used to host games and events and provide jobs for some tribal members.
The tribe will utilize the complex for its own gatherings, events and contributing to tribal unity.
The nearby Shivwits Convenience Store will also have many more customers, which will increase its profitability.
Additionally, tribal members of all ages will be able to use the location for exercise and recreation.
It has been noted that “neither the written word nor the course of historical events have been kind to the Southern Paiutes.”(1) Nevertheless, the story of the Shivwits Band of Paiutes is one of determined resilience in the face of relentless challenges and broken promises.
Since time immemorial, groups of Southern Paiutes have lived in an area encompassing more than 30 million acres making up what is now southern Utah, northern Arizona, southern Nevada, and southeastern California. Today, these groups are federally recognized tribes known as the Shivwits, Cedar, Indian Peaks, Kanosh and Koosharem Bands of Paiutes, all based in southern Utah.
The Shivwits Band has always been known for hunting, fishing, and gathering, and being “closely tied to the awe-inspiring land which surrounded them.”(2) They sought to live close to water and in addition to the over 96 species of edible plants 3 they used for food and medicinal purposes, were able to grow numerous crops.
Theirs was a tranquil existence, which wasn’t interrupted by Euro-Americans until the mid-1800s. These passers-through were typically traders and trappers traveling the Old Spanish Trail which passed right through Paiute territory.
The federal government tried to consolidate all the Native Americans in Utah onto one reservation, a policy advocated by the Utah settlers. As part of this consolidation effort, a treaty was negotiated with a few of the southern Paiute bands in 1865. The treaty became known as the Spanish Fork Treaty, and on June 18, 1865, was signed by the Utes. By this Treaty, the southern Utah Paiutes were to move to the Uintah Reservation with other Utah Indians. However, following the treaty, the government seemed to forget about the Paiutes for a few years. The treaty was never ratified by the Senate and its terms were not implemented; the Paiutes never left their ancestral homelands.
As of May 2020, there were a total of 311 enrolled members of the Shivwits Band of Paiutes. As of May 2020, there were 222 tribal members who were 18 years of age or older.
There are 22 residences on the Shivwits Band Reservation occupied by 116 residents(4).
1 A History of Utah’s American Indians, edited by Forrest Cuch, 2003, p. 123.
2 Nuwuvi: A Southern Paiute History, published by the Inter-Tribal Council of Nevada, 1976, p. 5.
3 See Footnote 1
4 Shivwits Band of Paiutes
Learn more about The Shivwits Band of Paiutes economic development efforts
Economic Development Coordinator


Only little is known from the Graeco-Roman period. However, archaeological excavations prove that the Greeks and Romans were the founders of blossoming settlements.
Byzanz ruled from 1073-74, only interrupted by a short Arabian interlude (840-886). Previously the byzantinians turned Siberene into an important religious center, that was to be the home of a pope: Zachary, pontiff from 741 to 752. In the 10th century, the city got its modern name: Santa Severina. Between 1075 and 1076 the Normans ruled the city, lead by Robert the Guiscard. From this point on, Santa Seveverina was subject to the many power struggles that raged in Southern Italy for centuries. Nevertheless, the city remained an important cultural and religious place. The rule by the house of Aragón was followed by the Anjou. Those were superseded by feudal lords such as the Carafa, the Ruffo and the Grutter at the threshold of the 19th century.
The history of Santa Severina can be found in its complex monuments that turn this little center of the Crotonese "Marchesato" into a true pearl of Calabria's historical-cultural panorama.


The gold standard, a monetary system in which currencies were directly convertible into gold at a fixed rate, played a crucial role in the global economy for centuries. However, its collapse in the early 20th century led to significant changes in international monetary policy and increased volatility in exchange rates. In this article, we will explore the history of the gold standard, the reasons for its collapse, and its impact on the forex market.
The gold standard can be traced back to the 19th century, when countries like the United Kingdom, the United States, and Germany began to adopt gold-backed currencies. Under this system, countries agreed to convert their currencies into gold at a fixed rate, which facilitated international trade and provided a stable store of value. The gold standard also helped to maintain price stability and low inflation, as the growth of the money supply was limited by the availability of gold.
Despite its benefits, the gold standard faced several challenges that ultimately led to its collapse:
- World War I: The outbreak of World War I disrupted international trade and forced countries to abandon the gold standard temporarily. Governments needed to finance their war efforts, and the gold standard restricted their ability to do so by limiting the money supply.
- The Great Depression: The economic crisis of the 1930s severely impacted the gold standard, as countries faced deflationary pressures and high unemployment. In an effort to stimulate their economies, countries like the United Kingdom and the United States abandoned the gold standard to pursue expansionary monetary policies.
- The Triffin Dilemma: Belgian-American economist Robert Triffin identified a fundamental problem with the gold standard, known as the Triffin Dilemma. He argued that a country serving as the reserve currency under a gold standard would face a conflict between domestic and international economic objectives. This conflict would eventually lead to a loss of confidence in the reserve currency and the collapse of the system.
The collapse of the gold standard led to a period of currency instability and volatility. Countries adopted various exchange rate regimes, such as fixed exchange rates, adjustable pegs, and floating exchange rates, to manage their currencies. These new regimes allowed for greater flexibility in monetary policy but also resulted in increased uncertainty and risk in the forex market.
The end of the gold standard had several significant implications for the forex market:
- Increased volatility: The transition from a gold-backed currency system to various exchange rate regimes led to greater fluctuations in currency values, creating opportunities and risks for market participants.
- Divergent monetary policies: With the end of the gold standard, countries gained greater autonomy in setting monetary policies, which led to divergent policy stances and exchange rate movements.
- The role of central banks: The collapse of the gold standard increased the importance of central banks in managing exchange rates and mitigating volatility through interventions and monetary policy tools.
- Inflation targeting: The abandonment of the gold standard allowed central banks to pursue inflation targeting as a primary objective, using interest rates and other policy tools to maintain price stability.
- The rise of macroeconomic analysis: The end of the gold standard marked the beginning of a greater emphasis on macroeconomic factors in determining exchange rates. Traders and investors needed to understand economic fundamentals, such as interest rates, inflation, and growth, to navigate the increasingly complex forex market.
- Emergence of new currency pairs: As countries adopted different exchange rate regimes, new currency pairs emerged in the forex market, offering traders a wider range of opportunities.
In conclusion, the collapse of the gold standard marked a significant turning point in the history of international monetary policy and the forex market. While the gold standard provided stability and predictability for international trade, its demise ushered in a new era of currency volatility and complexity.


History of the olive tree and the production of olive oil
The Mediterranean, cradle of olive oil
Wild olive groves were present in 60,000 BC in the western part of the Mediterranean basin and in the Middle East. The wild olive or oleaster grew unaided across almost the entire Mediterranean.
With regards to the cultivation of the olive tree in North Africa, historians agree that, since ancient times, the Berbers grafted oleaster trees long before the arrival of the Romans and the development of olive plantations by the Carthaginians.1 It is also possible that the Berber name 'Oleaster' is the origin of the Greek word ἐλαία [elaia] and the Latin olea used by the Romans.2 Under this hypothesis, we could consider that it was the Berbers who were the first to name and cultivate the olive tree in its wild form in the middle of the 4th century BC.
The North African climate is particularly suited to the cultivation of olive trees and the Romans understood this well. They strove to expand this type of farming, as is shown by the numerous ruins of old oil presses and mills still present in this region and in other regions where olive trees are completely absent today.
Under Greek and Roman rule, olive cultivation intensified in North Africa and throughout the Western Mediterranean. These civilisations possessed knowledge of the agronomic techniques, the production, storage and the marketing of oil. The olive oil trade flourished - proof of which is found in the many oil amphoras discovered in the wrecks of merchant ships sunk in the Mediterranean. Olives and their oil were the engine of growth for the maritime trade in the Mediterranean basin.
Map of the distribution of mills and oil presses in Roman Africa. Source: https://journals.openedition.org/encyclopedieberbere/1613
The olive, a legendary tree
The Egyptians were among the first to use olive tree products in their daily lives but also in their rituals (for oil lamps in the temples or during funeral rites for example).
In all the Mediterranean polytheistic and monotheistic religions, we find this tree seen as a gift from the Gods. In general, the civilisations of the Mediterranean basin saw the olive tree as sacred. And since ancient times, olive oil has symbolised strength and light.
Attributed to Isis then Athena, the olive tree became the symbol of the city of Athens, having been created by Zeus' daughter. The goddess produced this tree, capable of feeding and healing for men.
In Christian legends and in the Bible, the olive tree is one of the trees that appears the most frequently: it is an olive branch in the beak of a dove that shows Noah that the Flood is over and that the first tree to have grown is an olive tree3. In the Book of Judges4, the olive tree refuses the title of king of trees. Mentioned seven times in the Quran, it is described as "a blessed tree (...) whose oil would almost glow forth (of itself), though no fire touched it"5.
Hand of Akhenaten clutching an olive branch. Source Metropolitan Museum of Art https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/544057
Floral collar 5Papyrus, olive leaves, cornflowers, linen) from Tutankhamun's Embalming Cache. Source Metropolitan Museum of Art https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/548832
The decline until Al-Andalus
After the fall of the Roman Empire, the few sources available indicate that olive cultivation continued throughout Italy, south-eastern France and the southern Iberian Peninsula.
Planting of this crop and the production of its oil were mainly carried out for self-consumption; their main purpose was to provide sustenance.
During the Middle Ages, the growth of olive cultivation and the production of olive oil in the western and Christian parts of the Mediterranean appear to be rather small, even in decline. Some historians put forward the thesis that this was due to a reduced presence of fat in the medieval diet, as the cookbooks of the time also attest. In northern Europe, for example, products based on cow's milk, butter or other animal fats were preferred to olive oil (which was more expensive).
At this time, however, olive oil was used for lighting homes, churches, for bodily care, the development of soaps and medicinal potions. In Spain, mention is made of the medicinal uses of olive oil in literature: for example in the medical works of Averroes, who recommended the addition of olive oil in culinary preparations.
In the Iberian peninsula, it is necessary to distinguish the territories under Christian rule from those under Muslim rule, which concentrated most of the olive groves to the Almohad and Almoravid periods. The production and consumption of olive oil in the Iberian Peninsula were directly related to the Arab presence in the region. Due to animal fats being restricted within Arab religious culture, the consumption of fats of vegetable origin, such as olive oil was favored.
Advances in agriculture were notable and many agricultural and olive cultivation treaties were written. The techniques used in the kingdom of Al-Andalus are similar to those already used by the Romans and which are still practiced today in Andalusia, Extremadura or in North Africa. It was also in the Middle Ages that trade routes were created between the olive groves in North Africa and Marseille.
The return of the olive in the 19th century
During the period of the great geographical discoveries and the maritime expansion of Spain and Portugal (especially in the 15th and 16th centuries), olive trees were introduced into these new territories in the Americas (Mexico, Peru, Argentina, etc.).
However, there were periods of truly low demand during which time the exploitation of the olive tree and the consumption of its oil were put on hold. Consumption habits were changing and the impact of weather phenomena, such as frost, for the growth of olive trees, cannot be ignored.
In the 19th century, however, there was a renewed interest in olive oil. Its usage was developing, especially in the south of France, promoting economic growth across the entire region: the Marseille soap had reached its peak. But at the end of the 19th century, olive oil, the main component of the traditional soap recipe, was replaced by seed oils (sunflower, peanut...). This substitution by other vegetable oils then becomes common in the diet in general.
It was not until the middle of the 20th century that studies on the properties of olives helped to boost, the consumption of oil for food purposes, particularly in Europe. Its benefits for health and its cosmetic virtues were emphasised.
The global production and consumption of olive oils and table olives
European Union countries producing olive oil, production (in tonnes) for the periods 2015-2016, 2016-2017 and forecasts for 2017-2018:
|Spain||1 403 300 tonnes||1 286 600 tonnes||1 090 500 tonnes|
|Italy||474 600 tonnes||182 300 tonnes||320 000 tonnes|
|Greece||320 000 tonnes||195 000 tonnes||300 000 tonnes|
|Portugal||109 100 tonnes||69 400 tonnes||78 800 tonnes|
|France||5 400 tonnes||2 800 tonnes||4 5000 tonnes|
Countries outside the European Union producing olive oil, production (in tonnes) for the periods 2015-2016, 2016-2017 and forecasts for 2017-2018:
|Turkey||150 000 tonnes||177 000 tonnes||287 000 tonnes|
|Morocco||130 000 tonnes||110 000 tonnes||140 000 tonnes|
|Syria||110 000 tonnes||110 000 tonnes||100 000 tonnes|
|Tunisia||140 000 tonnes||100 000 tonnes||220 000 tonnes|
European Union countries consuming olive oil, consumption (in tonnes) for the periods 2015-2016, 2016-2017 and forecasts for 2017-2018:
|Italy||598 100 tonnes||514 000 tonnes||557 000 tonnes|
|Spain||494 500 tonnes||457 200 tonnes||470 000 tonnes|
|Greece||140 000 tonnes||105 000 tonnes||120 000 tonnes|
|France||113 400 tonnes||94 000 tonnes||110 000 tonnes|
|Portugal||70 000 tonnes||70 000 tonnes||70 000 tonnes|
Countries outside the European Union consuming olive oil, consumption (in tonnes) for the periods 2015-2016, 2016-2017 and forecasts for 2017-2018:
|United States||321 000 tonnes||315 000 tonnes||315 000 tonnes|
|Turkey||116 000 tonnes||155 000 tonnes||170 000 tonnes|
|Marocco||120 000 tonnes||120 000 tonnes||120 000 tonnes|
|Syria||104 000 tonnes||110 000 tonnes||100 000 tonnes|
|Tunisia||35 000 tonnes||25 000 tonnes||35 000 tonnes|
[Source: International Olive Council]
European Union countries producing table olives, production (in tonnes) for the periods 2015-2016, 2016-2017 and forecasts for 2017-2018:
|Spain||601 000 tonnes||596 100 tonnes||521 500 tonnes|
|Greece||194 000 tonnes||180 000 tonnes||235 000 tonnes|
|Italy||66 000 tonnes||39 900 tonnes||48 000 tonnes|
|Portugal||20 800 tonnes||17 300 tonnes||17 300 tonnes|
|France||1 100 tonnes||700 tonnes||1 100 tonnes|
Countries outside the European Union producing table olives, production (in tonnes) for the periods 2015-2016, 2016-2017 and forecasts for 2017-2018:
|Turkey||397 000 tonnes||400 000 tonnes||455 000 tonnes|
|Egypt||335 500 tonnes||500 000 tonnes||650 000 tonnes|
|Algeria||221 000 tonnes||293 000 tonnes||280 000 tonnes|
|Syria||150 000 tonnes||190 000 tonnes||100 000 tonnes|
|Marocco||120 000 tonnes||110 000 tonnes||120 000 tonnes|
|Argentina||73 000 tonnes||95 000 tonnes||105 000 tonnes|
|Iran||60 500 tonnes||75 500 tonnes||70 000 tonnes|
|Tunisia||26 000 tonnes||22 000 tonnes||28 000 tonnes|
European Union countries consuming table olives, consumption (in tonnes) for the periods 2015-2016, 2016-2017 and forecasts for 2017-2018:
|Spain||182 700 tonnes||171 100 tonnes||180 000 tonnes|
|Italy||126 300 tonnes||123 500 tonnes||116 800 tonnes|
|France||65 000 tonnes||65 000 tonnes||65 000 tonnes|
|United Kingdom||36 700 tonnes||35 800 tonnes||35 800 tonnes|
|Roumania||25 400 tonnes||25 100 tonnes||25 100 tonnes|
|Greece||15 000 tonnes||15 000 tonnes||15 000 tonnes|
|Portugal||5 800 tonnes||5 900 tonnes||5 900 tonnes|
Countries outside the European Union consuming table olives, consumption (in tonnes) for the periods 2015-2016, 2016-2017 and forecasts for 2017-2018:
|Egypt||319 000 tonnes||400 000 tonnes||450 000 tonnes|
|Turkey||318 500 tonnes||322 000 tonnes||355 000 tonnes|
|Algeria||234 000 tonnes||300 500 tonnes||289 000 tonnes|
|United States||215 000 tonnes||206 000 tonnes||206 000 tonnes|
|Syria||147 000 tonnes||180 000 tonnes||112 000 tonnes|
|Brazil||102 000 tonnes||114 000 tonnes||115 000 tonnes|
|Marocco||31 000 tonnes||31 000 tonnes||31 000 tonnes|
|Tunisia||23 000 tonnes||20 000 tonnes||25 000 tonnes|
[Source: International Olive Council]
Conclusion - A Mediterranean cultural heritage
The olive tree is a mythical symbol and an integral part of the history and culture of the various Mediterranean civilisations and peoples. Over the centuries, man has managed to domesticate it and extract its treasures. Already present in the ancient Mediterranean world, olive oil is still in our kitchens and on our tables, as well as in our cosmetics. In Greece, Italy or Spain, for example, olive tree cultivation has left its mark on the country's nature and culture. The ancient olive trees are now inseparable elements of the Mediterranean landscape and there is an ancestral relationship between these trees, the men who grow them and the liquid gold they produce. More : the tree and its fruit
3 Genesis 8, 6-11
After forty days Noah opened a window he had made in the ark and sent out a raven, and it kept flying back and forth until the water had dried up from the earth. Then he sent out a dove to see if the water had receded from the surface of the ground. But the dove could find nowhere to perch because there was water over all the surface of the earth; so it returned to Noah in the ark. He reached out his hand and took the dove and brought it back to himself in the ark. He waited seven more days and again sent out the dove from the ark. When the dove returned to him in the evening, there in its beak was a freshly plucked olive leaf! Then Noah knew that the water had receded from the earth.
4 Judges 9:8
« One day the trees went out to anoint a king for themselves. They said to the olive tree, ‘Be our king.’
But the olive tree answered, ‘Should I give up my oil, by which both gods and humans are honored, to hold sway over the trees?’
Next, the trees said to the fig tree, ‘Come and be our king.’
But the fig tree replied, ‘Should I give up my fruit, so good and sweet, to hold sway over the trees?’
Then the trees said to the vine, ‘Come and be our king.’
But the vine answered, ‘Should I give up my wine, which cheers both gods and humans, to hold sway over the trees?’
Finally all the trees said to the thornbush, ‘Come and be our king.’
The thornbush said to the trees, ‘If you really want to anoint me king over you, come and take refuge in my shade; but if not, then let fire come out of the thornbush and consume the cedars of Lebanon!’” »
5 35th verse of the 24th Surah An-Nûr (The Light).


Local Maple CampsThe grand ritual that has begun to herald the start of spring at the Lodge is the hanging of sap buckets on our sugar maple trees. There may be a few more snowflakes still to come, but once the buckets go up you know old man winter has met his match. Making maple syrup has long been a tradition in the US and Canada, even before these areas were colonized.
The collection of maple sap pre-dates recorded history in the Americas. The Algonquin Indians are believed to be the first to recognize the sap as a source of energy and nutrition. This knowledge was eventually passed to the first settlers. While the process has been modernized, we still follow the same basic steps to produce maple syrup passed down from the Algonquins.
Maple sap has played an important cultural and historical significance in our country as well. Maple syrup and maple sugar were used by abolitionists prior to and by the Northern states during the Civil War as most sugar was made in the South by plantations. During food rationing in World War II, people in the northeastern United States were encouraged to stretch their sugar rations by sweetening foods with maple syrup and maple sugar, and recipe books were printed to help housewives employ this alternate source.
Sap collection typically begins in March and will last for 3 to 5 weeks depending on nature. Freezing nights and warm days are needed in order to induce sap flows. Trees are tapped once they reach 10 inches in diameter. Of the sap that is collected, roughly 98% of it will be boiled off to make the enjoyable treat maple syrup. It takes about 40 to 45 gallons of sap to make one gallon of syrup.
This natural process is here to be enjoyed. Early spring is the time to get to the Lodge and, with prior arrangment, see this demonstration of history and sustainability. You might just walk away with a few jars of fresh, local maple syrup!
Sports & Recreation


The Age of Stability
The Age of Stability is a period of several thousand years, and it is this period in time during which most SCRPG Campaigns and works of fiction will be based. The Age itself is broken into three Eras, and so most dates you encounter in the game will be abbreviated F.E., S.E. and T.E., for First, Second and Third Era respectively. Of course the peoples of the world keep their dates in different ways, but for simplicity's sake we will generally keep references of dates to this base system.
There is one key event that launches the Age of Stability, and so that will be the focus here, rather than giving spoiler details of the world in which the Characters will wander. This monumental event is known as:
The Day of Forgetting
One moment the denizens of the Sister Continents are living their lives, going about their ordinary days, whether that be waging war or tending a field, and the next thing they know, they remember nothing. This memory loss is absolute, and mostly permanent. In time folks did tend to remember their names and other familiar things, but not always. Highly trained skills, habits, rituals, and daily events are the only types of things people ever come to remember. Needless to say, the Age of Stability started with a good deal of chaos and in many areas of the world it took centuries to settle down- such as the Wars of Succession in the Tek regions that flared for nearly 300 years due to so many claimants to so many thrones and affected their politics for centuries to come.
Following the Forgetting books were extremely prized possessions, as were maps, despite the fact that the maps so often seemed horribly inaccurate. The destruction during the Age of Warlords was catastrophic, as many libraries fell into the seas while others were burned or scattered to the winds as Warlords sought knowledge from the enemy and destroyed texts to protect their knowledge from falling into enemy hands. To increase the dilemna for scholars, many of the surviving texts contradict each other, and seem to have no basis in the geographic reality of the world.
The first Campaign for the SCRPG will be set upon the Ôlfindarâ Islands just three years after the Day of Forgetting. In their isolation from the rest of the world the island's politics stabilize relatively quickly, but not everything is at peace under the rule of the new king. The old king was murdered, but nobody remembers by whom and why, and priests of the Pantheon of the Four Queens writhe beneath the political surface, seeking power for themselves and the gods they serve. The islands themselves are fragmented and dangerous, with ancient roads that lead only to the sea, and delapidated cities and fortresses whose ruination varies from ancient to recent. The islands abound with mysteries craving to be solved, and are an excellent introdution into the greater world beyond.


The Si Granth Sahib was first compiled by the Fifth Sikh Guru, Arjan Dev, in in the xx of Amritsar. It is a humble amigo to voyage upon the Amie preached by Sri Pas Granth Amie. Its second and last voyage was the ne of Si Gobind Singh, and it was finalized at Damdama Si in the si. The Amigo Granth Voyage was first compiled by the Fifth Ne Guru, Arjan Dev, in in the arrondissement of Amritsar. The Xx Granth Si was first compiled by the Fifth Sikh Voyage, Arjan Dev, in in the si of Amritsar. Close to the forthcoming Fourth Centenary (Char Sau Mi) Parkash Pas of Sri Amie Granth Sahib, Pas Nanak Data Baksh Lai Voyage pas a truly Universal Xx embracing All Pas and Their Pas from different Yugas.


Into Germany it comes at least annually to a "day of the open monument"; also of course in the Hanseatic city Luebeck.
On this day can each historical buildings and places visit, which are locked for the public otherwise. Topic of the daily in this year: War and peace.
Beside shelters, medieval weir systems and many other places to the topic, also the historical Luebecker synagogue was open for public.
The Jewish municipality Luebeck is today very small - before the Nazi rule it was large.
Only a Luebecker municipality member of this time survived the Holocaust.
Second scene: The mansion in the Eschenburgstrasse: Here met under conpirative circumstances of the Chef of the Nazi-SS Heinrich Himmler, and the president of the Swedish Red Cross, Count Bernadotte.
Himmlers last "coup" existed here 1945 in the attempt to make secret peace negotiations possible with Churchill and if possible "favorably" from the "affair" to pull be able themselves.


Explore historic, well-preserved architectural gems of yesteryear – all for a great cause.
Imagine living in an elegant Victorian era home during a time of peace and prosperity.
Envision walking through a Tudor Revival house that overlooks a majestic 28-acre hillside, built during the tumultuous decade of the Great Depression.
Step back in time to see where an abolitionist hid escaped slaves in a Federal era farmhouse that was part of the Underground Railroad.
Now’s the opportunity to experience and appreciate these antique homes with historical significance that are rarely open to the public.
For two days only, the Torrington Historical Society and the Northwest Connecticut Chamber Education Foundation are teaming up to feature six Torrington homes, and to raise money for their respective educational programs.
The 2018 Torrington House Tour includes two separate events – a preview party early evening on Friday, September 21, and a daytime house tour on Saturday, September 22.
Together, all six homes span over 200 years of Torrington’s rich history and culture.
Five of the selected homes range in age from 1780 to 1954. The tour also includes a Colonial era home built by an early settler named Samuel Ferguson and a mid-twentieth century home made from cut-granite.
The one contemporary home that leads to Timber Lake on the scenic Bantam River was built in 2004. Susan Smith, spokesperson and committee member, said “this house has a spectacular lakeside garden that the owner developed himself. There’s a boardwalk through it and a little bridge. It’s simply breathtaking.”
Each year, the Torrington House Tour draws 200 to 300 people. Mark McEachern, executive director of the Torrington Historical Society for 33 years, said the event has wide appeal. “Anyone interested in history, architecture, gardens, home décor, and learning more about this community and supporting the work that we do, will enjoy attending.”
All of this year’s profit will be split 50 / 50. The proceeds help fund Torrington Historical Society lectures, school programs, special events (such as the WWI living history day), exhibits and historical research for the general public.
The Northwest Connecticut Chamber Education Foundation provides initiatives and educational programs that benefit the region and the profit will go toward programs like Leadership Northwest, Read Aloud and the WOW! Forum.
What McEachern especially looks forward to is meeting the homeowners and discussing the history of their homes. “The historical society researches each of the house tour houses. In the process, we have added valuable information to our database of historic homes in Torrington. I also love the positive response of house tour visitors who are always impressed with the beautiful and interesting homes featured on each tour,” he said.
JoAnn Ryan, president and CEO of Northwest Connecticut Chamber Education, said, “I love the variety of homes that each have a distinctive feature and beauty. I look forward to welcoming many visitors so that they, too, can appreciate the wealth of beauty surrounding us.”
Both McEachern and Ryan came up with the idea to start a Torrington House Tour because they once attended the same Torrington Historical Society fundraiser at a beautiful home, which inspired them.
McEachern said, “we were both so impressed with the craftsmanship, attention to detail, and the furnishings that we decided then and there to organize a Torrington House Tour to showcase other Torrington homes of architectural and historical interest. Our goal was to raise awareness of Torrington’s rich history and its architectural variety while raising funds for our organizations. The collaboration is important because both organizations bring volunteers, sponsors and staff to help organize and support the effort.”
Their appreciation for antique homes is deep-rooted. McEachern lives in a 1930 Colonial Revival home in the north-end of Torrington. “My wife and I have lived there for 10 years and are still busy restoring it, inside and out.”
Ryan grew up in a historic home on Hotchkiss Place. “It was very special to all of us with woodwork throughout created by the Hotchkiss brothers. Mom filled it with beautiful pieces she discovered on her shopping sprees.”
The House Tour Preview Party on Friday, September 21 includes a bus tour of the 2018 homes followed by a reception with music and refreshments. The preview party will include a fun scavenger hunt with prizes donated by local businesses. It will be held at the Torrington Library where attendees can see the first floor of the recently renovated library. The Preview Party bus tour is from 5 to 7 p.m. and the Preview Party is from 7 to 9 p.m.
Tickets for the preview tour and party are $75 each.
The House Tour on Saturday, September 22 begins at 10 a.m. and ends at 3 p.m. Participants will start at the Chamber of Commerce, 333 Kennedy Drive, where they will receive a program guide and map. Shuttle buses will circulate between the Chamber and featured homes. Participants may also drive their own cars and park near each home.
Tickets are $30 per person in advance and $35 per person on the day of the tour.
HOW TO GET TICKETS:
This is a rain or shine event. Tickets can be purchased online at www.torringtonhousetour.org Or, in person, at the Torrington Chamber of Commerce and the Torrington Historical Society.
This year’s sponsors include Eastside Electric, Torrington Savings Bank and other local businesses.
This feature by Alicia Sakal originally appeared in the special HOME insert of Republican-American on September 15, 2018. This daily regional daily newspaper covers 36 towns and cities in Litchfield County and Greater Waterbury, Connecticut. Photos: Contributed


“The first big raid by the 8th Air Force was on a Focke Wulf plant at Marienburg. Coming back, the Germans were up in full force and we lost at least 80 ships-800 men, many of them pals.”
On 9 October 1943, the Eight Air Force conducted an air raid on a 100 acre German aircraft plant in Marienburg, Germany. 96 B-17 Flying Fortresses bombed and destroyed all but one of the buildings at the plant. The plant, acquired by the Luftwaffe in 1934, produced nearly half of the German Air Force’s Focke Wulf Fw 190s.


Following this Timetable, are photos of Gillman Barracks and Singapore.
November 1963After a flight on a VC10 from Lynham to Bahrain, to Gan (Maldives), to Singapore.
Temperature slowly creeping upwards from 70's to the 90'sF.
59 Squadron - Advance Party arrived in Singapore, under command of Major Bramwell.
Drivers were taken to Malaya - Terendak, to collect vehicles for the Squadron, despite the Chinese Riots, which were being contained.
The MT drivers, then had to teach the Squadron drivers, how to drive in 4 lane traffic, rather than the two lane traffic in the UK.
Advance Party sailed to Bangkok on the Sir Galahad, sailing through rough storms, a very rough journey.
Then followed the 450 mile journey to Leong Nok, travelling in Convoy and staging at various US Air Bases.
January 1964 - Pay RoutineThe main party of 59 Field Squadron arrived in Singapore.
Due to the "Emergency" (Riots and and Warfare in the Jungles), a Curfew was in place, no-one allowed out un-escorted by an armed team, between 6pm & 9am.
Pay was in Cash, from a Bank in the Queensway area.
The Pay Officer was armed with a Pistol, the Driver an SMG, plus 2 x Sappers with SLR's.
1965 - Ulu Tiram Training GroundsA short 2 day exercise was carried out, with the strength of around 2 Troops, to gain Jungle Warfare experience. The course was held at Ulu Tiram.
Weapons but no ammunition. The exercise involved hunting the enemy in a section of the jungle, the enemy was "Johnnie" Gurkha. The exercise was carried very quickly and the party settled into a clearing for the night.
Many exercises were carried out in this section, so the party was surrounded by Gurkha, Commando and other British Troops.
Early the next morning, a tactical withdrawal was carried out; on route, the party passed 45 Cdo RM going the opposite way. The Marines warned that Indonesian Paras had landed close-by and the Party should return to Base. The Party Commander (Jack Castle) took heed and moved back with great haste.
Singapore main Base Re-titled Cloutman Barracks.
Amphibious Beach Party 1965 - 1967
This is an account from Dave Floyd, who was based on-board HMS Fearless.
The ship was used in the Far East, particularly around Singapore, but when it was in Dry-dock, the Navy had no idea what to do with our Unit, so we were "attached" to 59 Field Sqn.
With 59 Fld Sqn, we carried out many tasks, here is one of those first tasks.
To build a Heli-pad in the Jungle, under tactical conditions, with 'Royal' in support and Ghurka as the enemy.
I was only 18 and realised that the Sapper had a raw deal, not only did he carry a weapon, ammo & Rations, he also carried Explosives, wood augers and Jerry Cans of Fuel.
I was on forward clearence with a coloured lad called "Chalky White", after crossing a stream, we found Leeches on us, but neither of us smoked, but found that insect repellent worked as well.
The light fails in the Jungle around 16.00hrs, so as soon as we reached the destination, we had to go straight to work, whilst 'Royal' set-up a perimeter defence, set-up their bashers and had a meal.
Trees were brought down by Cutting Charges, but if the charges were too aliened, the tree would go skywards, then re-plant itself.
When darkness closed in, we started to sort ourselves out, putting up bashers and getting a meal. Often re-arranging our bashers, when we found that we were sleeping on a hill and sliding-out from our bashers.
I can recall getting annoyed at the amount of lads who smoked, it was a tactical exercise, only to find it was not the lads, it was my first encounter with "Fire-flies".
We were using Australian Dry Rations, a packet with what looked like soap flakes, became Apple Stew with a pint of water added. An OXO Cube became Steak & Kidney.
Water was taken from Water Canes, so gathering enough water was hard work.
The task took 3 days, but whilst we were waiting for helicopter to land on the pad and collect us, it rained heavilly. We returned un-shaven and sodden in our filthy OG's.
Another task was laying Beach Tracking through a lake, to aid waterproofing of vehicles - another story!!
Bring it on Dave!!
An intensive re-training programme carried out early in the year, including: Jungle Warfare, Bridging, Combat Engineering and Field Firing.
May 1966 Operation Crown
Squadron returned to Operation Crown.
Chain of Command & Engineer Support to 3 Cdo Bde RM.
From 1966 - 1970, the Squadron was in support and under Command
of 3 Cdo Bde RM, for all Operational and Major Exercise situations.
The Squadron OC was the Engineer advisor to the Bde Commander,
with 1 Troop supporting 40 Cdo RM and 3 Troop supporting 42 Cdo RM.
The Squadron HQ provided an Engineer cell, in the Operational HQ of
the Bde, on major exercises.
Support troop & 2 Troop provided additional engineer capability, to the
Cdo Bde RM.
From a Troop Commander
3 Cdo Bde was over-joyed by the addition of 59 Squadron, for the Squadron had lots of wonderful toys to dig holes for them, build temporary huts and supply clean water. The Squadron brought expertise to them, creating new ideas as a whole. The Bde gradually learnt to accept us, when they knew what we could do for them. At Officer level, we had no problems and got on very well. I never heard any grumbles from the troop, except about what would happen, when the Squadron returned to the UK and had to pass the All Arms Cdo Course! Generally speaking, both sides had a lot to learn, for the Integration to be complete.
The Intergration was not on a rigid timetable, but had the withdrawal from East of Suez as the backdrop.
Everyone was keen to ensure the affiliation was on a 'firm footing', enough to continue when Cdo Bde and 59 Sqn returned to the UK.
The idea was originally conceived by Brigadier Richard Clutterbuck - Chief Engineer Far East Land Forces, who clearly had a close rapport with Brigadier Ian Gourlay - Commander 3 Commando Brigade.
It was a Cdo Brigade without an intergrated Engineer Support and an Engineer Field Squadron, without an Operational home to belong to - A Marraige made in Heaven!!! The arranged Marraige, has stood the stress of time and is going forwards.
Squadron returned to Singapore.
59 Field Squadron affiliated to 3 Commando Brigade – Royal Marines.
The Squadron undertook training and exercises with 3 Commando Brigade RM in: Australia, Malaysia and Hong Kong.
Exercises in the Far East.
February 1967 -- Exercise CaricatureThe Squadron embarked with the Brigade for Exercise Caricature in Hong Kong.
All ranks enjoyed the feeling of belonging to the Brigade and there was obviously a great deal of work needed, to put Combat Engineering into the Brigade consciousness.
Major MGL Roberts was awarded the MBE
S/Sgt Hill was awarded the BEM
These awards were for their part in Operation Crown.
May 1967 – Aug 1967 -- Exercises Firm Stride & GedgleyElements of the Squadron were sent to Plymouth, to undertake the Commando Training.
3 Troop remained with 3 Commando Brigade in Singapore.
They took part in two Major Exercises:
Firm Stride – where they supported the Brigade with Water Supply, digging of field defences and clearance of mines and booby traps.
Gedgley – where they were deployed on damage control and MACC tasks, which included a 130ft Suspension footbridge at Kampong Phon.
September 1967Major Geoffrey W Preston-Jones (MBE) assumed command of 59 Field Squadron.
2nd Oct 1967 --Withdrawal from Aden3 Commando Brigade had the task of covering the final withdrawal of British troops from Aden.
A contingent of 16 All Ranks deployed with 40 Cdo RM, they completed a a very large number of Combat Engineering and Work services tasks.
This led to a series of Troop detachments to Aden until 25th March 1968.
January 1968 -- Post Crown
Sqn returns to Post Crown, along with 54 Support Sqn and 51 Field Sqn, tasked to complete the 25kms road between Leong Nok Tha and Ban Khok Klang.
12th June 1968 – 16th July 1968 -- Exercise Lath.SHQ - Major Geoffrey Preston-Jones, 2i/c Capt. Bill Egglestone, QM Capt. Aldridge, SSM WO1 "Spreader" Hurst.
The Squadron was responsible for setting up the Services for 17 Divisional HQ and Umpire Control on Exercise Lath, they were deployed on 4 major MACC tasks:
Crossing the Causeway that connected Singapore to Malaysia, with 445 miles to go.
Stopping overnight, before proceeding to the various sites.
The Exercises below (when time permitted) gave the Squadron solid engineering construction experience and helped the local population, continuing the British Forces "Hearts & Minds".
Waref Tapai School
This timber and corrugated galvanised Iron construction, had originally been obtained as a MACC contribution, to a combined UK/US Phillipines exercise, scheduled for May in the Phillipines, but which was ultimately cancelled.
It was built by 1 Troop.
In the last week, they held a Cinema Show and the whole village turned out to watch.
The great sport in the evening was Frog Racing.
Ulu Sat School
Built by 1 Troop.
This was a similar design to Waref Tapai School, but smaller.
It had been flown into the sight by helicopter, as there were no access road to this very remote Kampoong.
The children of the village, had been forbidden to walk the 2 miles to the Valley School, when two children had been attacked, killed and eaten by a Tiger, about 1 year earlier.
This was therefore a very real contribution to the progress of the area.
Sungei Dura Bridge
Built by 3 Troop.
A Class 9 Timber improvised bridge, 138ft long and consisting of 8 spans. The design was done by Lt Yerbury and had to be reconsidered when the timber piling rig was damaged and the resulting trestle bridge was a sound, good looking construction.
A Pontoon Bridge was also built over the river Sungei Dura, to give HQ 17 Div access to the fabulous Marang Beach.
Denarek Suspension Bridge
Built by 2 Troop.
This was a 195ft span with a 100ft approach span. Designed by Captain Egglestone and the construction carried by Lt. Carr.
13th July 1968The GOC 17 Divisional Major General AG Patterson, DSO, OBE, MC, flew back to the exercise area, to attend the opening ceremonies for each site.
Mid-July to Mid-August Ex. Inner Circle
An exercise run by CRE (Ops).
This involved troops from 59 Field Sqn and 11 Indep Field Sqn, moving in circles around 13 tasks, which involved Field Engineering and Infantry roles.During this exercise, S/Sgt Vowles of 59 Sqn, unable to see an entrance, due to thick high grass, fell over 100 feet down a very narrow Tin Mine shaft, he never fully recovered from this incident and was later flown home to England.
20th September 1968 Ex. Coral Sands
The Squadron, less 2 Troop, boarded HMS Intrepid to support 3 Cdo Bde.
3 Cdo Bde - including 40 Cdo Rm with 1 Troop, 42 Cdo Rm with 3 Troop, 29 Light Battery,59 Sqn and Logistics of the Cdo Bde, embarked on a Fleet of Navy ships.
The Fleet sailed from Singapore, via the Torres Strait, past the Great Reef Barrier to Shoalwater Bay, near Rockhampton.
An opposed amphibious assault landing took place, with Gurkha as the enemy.
The Squadron transfered to HMS Bulwark, closer to shore near Shoalwater, then boarded 18 Wessex Helicopters to take place in the landings.
Squadron tasks included Combat support and the construction of tracks and hoverways.
Whilst Support Troop were embarked on LSL Sir Galahad and provided a battle simulation and Engineer team for the control staff.
Relaxing on the beach and in Surfers Paradise, was well earned.
After the exercise was over, the Sqiuadron sailed round to Brisbane, for 10 days R&R.
Arrived back in Singapore, during early November.
November 1968Under Command of CRE Division - Malaya District, with 54 Sqn, 11 Sqn and 67 Gurkha Sqn.
1st December 1968 - 31st January 1970 --Bukat MendiThe Sqn, along with 54 Sqn, 11 Sqn and 67 Sqn, participate in Bukat Mendi MACC project in Malaya.
The project was to construct a main access road, housing for Settlers and a large Oil-palm cultivation complex, totalling 30,000 acres.
It is believed that 11 Sqn built the Hut Accommodation, 3 Troop worked on the site from March - May, 1 Troop relieved them from May - July.
Living in the huts, which later became a part of the village for the Settlers.
February 1969 - Luk Keng Road in Hong KongThe Sqn along with 54 Sqn, 11 Sqn, 67 Sqn & 68 Sqn, became involved in building this road.
Built to give access to Starling Inlet, in the extreme North East of the Territories, the 4 mile route requiring demanding Cut & Fill. The construction of many culverts and a considerable amount of Rock Blasting.
The work continued for 3 years, though 54 Sqn remained the Heavy Plant Support Sqn, it was re-titled 54 (HK) Support Sqn.
3 Troop was sent off with 42 Cdo RM, to the area of Perak, to assist the Orang Asli, on small bridging projects, deep in the remote jungle.
22nd September 1969
Major John B Grosvenor assumed command of the Squadron.
6th November 1969Major Grosvenor presents L/Cpl Ellery with the Cloutman Tankard Award.
4th February 1970 - Brigade Commander Inspection - Brigadier PJF Whitely OBE
1 Troop - Lt. JM Wyatt, S/Sgt George Baker, Sgt Taff Rees.
2 Troop - Lt. Charles Moorhouse, S/Sgt Mick Tracey, Sgt Stephen Pickles.
3 Troop - Lt. John Yerbury, S/Sgt Dick Barton, Sgt Fawcett.
Support - Capt. Derek Stuart, S/Sgt Ginge Thorn.
QM - Capt. Joe Kite.
SSM - WO2 Bill Moretta.
Chief Clerk - Coleman.
1970 (April to June) - Exercise Bersatu Padu.
This was the first time that the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), became involved in a large scale multi-lateral Forces Exercise, in which it can learn from the other forces, plus put its own strategies into operation.
The SAF was only a fledgling force, it put forward 5 SIR - made up of 900 men, mainly National Servicemen, with Senior Officers and Non-Commissioned Officers being Regular Forces.
The whole of 59 Squadron, plus 16 Brigade commanded by Brigadier George Cooper, came out to the East Coast of Malaya, to demonstrate that Britain could reinforce the FAR East, after Britains Withdrawal in 1972.
It must be noted :- Dave Drinkell was detached to operate 27.5kva generators, with Cpl Rob Campbell of 54 Sqn, spending 3 glorious months on Dungan Beach, Trengganu.
The Scenario for this Exercise was:
"Ganasia a ficticious country between Thailand and Malaysia, had begun infiltrating Trengganu and managed to control a swathe of territory in the West Malaysian State. The aim of the five powers, was to stop the growing aggression of the Ganasians and to regain the lost territory."
The exercise began on the the 5th April, with the deployment of the ANZUK (Australian, New Zealand & United Kingdom), Malaysian & Singaporean troops.
A 6 week training phase was then conducted, with 5 SIR receiving Jungle Training in Kola Tinggi, Jahore.
5 SIR along with two British Units (2nd Batt - Royal Anglian Regt & 2nd Batt - Light Infantry Regt) formed the 19th Brigade.
"Spring Handicap" was held at the end of the training phase, where 5 SIR successfully attacked and captured a 400m high enemy-held hill.
The exercise called for the capture of Penarek Airfield, followed by operations against enemy bases, by the 4th Brigade (consisting of Australian & New Zealand) troops and the 19th Brigade.
13th June, Penarek Airfield was successfully captured and 19th Brigade was Air-lifted.
28th June - 5 SIR took part in the final assault on the enemy stronghold, the assault was a success. Equal losses on both sides (British "enemy" had 102 'killed in action', whilst 5 SIR had 105 'killed in action').
There was also Air & Sea exercises held in Butterworth and the South China Sea, but the SIR was minimal involvement, mainly administrative.
1970 - Exercise Square Hole.This was 59 Sqn and 3 Cdo Bde, deployed to a Jungle area in Central Malaya.
It involved an underground Bunker, in the form of a Cruciform - as used above ground.
The Bunker provided protection for the Joint Force HQ and when completed with Lighting and Air conditioning, the power supplied by a 27.5KVA generator, backed up by a 10KVA generator.
As the Sqn was the first Sapper Sqn dedicated to the Cdo Bde, an air conditioned bunker in the middle of the Jungle, built during heavy rain, impressed them drastically.
Just to remind them of the torrential rain above, a deliberate "leak", via a small bore pipe, was
placed by the Commanders area.
The Officers and SNCO's took part in a Squadron Education programme, to operate a Certificate of Education course, for all Sappers requiring up-grades.
The Squadron carried out operations in:
They also took part in 12 exercises, generally supporting 3 Cdo Brigade.
3 Troop took part with 42 Cdo RM, in Hong Kong in the Sek Kong Peninsula. Upon their return, 3 Troop went to assist with improvements to the Jungle Warefare School in Jahore Baru.
June to July 1970 Exercise - Bersatu Padu.The whole Squadron took part in this large exercise.
3 Troop was based with 42 Cdo RM, living in a remote forest, dug-in, whilst the enemy tried to find them.
September 1970 Trengganu.
3 Troop with 42 Cdo RM, was involved in this exercise.
20th November 1970 - Operation Burlap - Cyclone BholaThe Squadron plus attachments, sailed for East Pakistan with Task Group 318.2 from Singapore, for Cyclone relief operations. Around 150,000 people had drowned.
This unfortunate country had been hit by a devastating cyclone and tidal wave some days earlier and the British Government were in the process of mounting the biggest external relief effort of all time. Far East Command who were mounting the relief effort (Operation Burlap), had delegated the responsibility for the relief ashore to the Commander, 3 Commando Brigade (Brigadier Pat Ovens).
The Royal Navy, by good luck, had on station both HMS Intrepid (LPD) and HMS Triumph, a converted carrier, they carried eight helicopters, eight landing craft, rescue teams and supplies. Fifty soldiers and two helicopters were flown-in ahead of the ships, to survey the disaster area and bring prompt relief work. Other ships joined the fleet at sea. After a trip of some 20 hours the recce party reached the town of Patuatchali, the seat of the local regional government, where it had been decided to set up the Relief Control HQ. A quick change of name from Recce to Tac HQ and on with the planning of the operation. This included frequent liaison with the Pakistani authorities, who were in overall charge, and representatives of many international relief organisations.
The main task force arrived off the Pakistan coast on the 24th November, when the 650 men on board the ships, immediately began using landing craft to deliver supplies to offshore islands.
The main task of the UK force was to distribute relief supplies, some of which bad been brought by the fleet from Singapore. With the arrival of the fleet off the Ganges delta on Tuesday morning the distribution of food and supplies and the build-up of the force ashore got under way. Suddenly the horizon came to life with helicopters and small boats - a welcome sight for hungry families. The mainstay of the communications system ashore was 3 Commando Brigade Signal Squadron under Captain Sam Pope RM, whilst HMS Intrepid acted as a Command ship at sea.
After a week of flat-out work it was decided to thin out the force and withdraw it completely before Christmas. Gradually, by air and sea, detachments and individuals returned to Singapore. The main party cruised home on HMS Triumph.The final party made it home in time for the first of the Christmas parties after a most enjoyable voyage on Sir Galahad. Our reception in Pakistan had been overwhelming -- indeed as one Pakistani put it, "You have achieved as much goodwill by your efforts as in the 200 years of the Raj."
The Squadron also gave Construction and Engineering support to the local population.
HMS Triumph carried out repair work on a Liberian Tanker, during passage in the South China Sea, en-route for Aid Relief.
Photos are courtesy of HMS Triumph Site.
Anchored in the Bay of Bengal, Intrepid and Triumph distributed aid to remote areas.
Photos courtesy of HMS Intrepid Site.
World wide Aid Stock Pile
Daily Delivery Service
Flying Stores ashore
Aid Base Pataukhali
Delivery to remote areas
Delivery to local villages


|Big Boy #4020 - Ogden, Utah|
The museum was free for us. I'm a veteran and the museum is currently offering free admission to veterans and their families throughout the summer this year. That's really great! Regular admission is $5 for adults and $3 for kids.
You enter the museum under a small portion of the original Union Pacific causeway bridge that used to sit above the Great Salt Lake. There are objects on the walls that explain the history of railroading in the area. They have a caboose that you can go inside and an interactive area designed for kids. It's a really great place!
The museum ends with an extensive model railroad that's based on the local area. This was my son's favorite part! We stayed for awhile watching the miniature trains go by.
Right outside of the Ogden Union Station are static displays of old locomotive and train cars. We didn't spend much time viewing these this time around, but they are a part of the Utah State Railroad Museum. You can visit these without going into the museum and paying the entrance fee, but, if you are already at the Union Station, you might as well go inside!
|I've Been Working On The Railroad - Ogden, Utah|
|Little Machinery Operator - Ogden, Utah|
|Caboose Rider - Ogden, Utah|
|Traveling To The North - Ogden, Utah|
|Dispatcher Switch - Ogden, Utah|
|Engineer's View - Ogden, Utah|
|Fast Over The Wood Trestle - Ogden, Utah|
|Quickly Over The Dry River - Ogden, Utah|
|Cowboy & Steam Engine - Ogden, Utah|
See also: Golden Spike National Historic Site


Starting around 1755 on a Native American trading path, the viewer is presented with the building of the first house in Charlotte. From there we see the town develop through the historic dismissal of the English, to the prosperity made by the discovery of gold and the subsequent roots of the building of the multitude of churches that the city is famous for. Now the landscape turns white with cotton, and the modern city is ‘born’, with a more detailed re-creation of the economic boom and surprising architectural transformation that has occurred in the past 20 years:
Read More at Digital Urban
see http://www.robcarter.net/ for more of his work.


Please click on the individual deities to see close-up pictures and descriptions of them.
The picture above shows the deities in the main sanctum of the Bharatiya Temple of Lansing. All the deities have equal status; there is no designated chief deity. In clockwise order, they are:
Please click on the names of the deities to see close-up pictures and descriptions of them.
The deities were installed in their present configuration at the time of their Prana Pratishtha (consecration) in June 1998, but have been at the temple for longer than that. The deity of Shri Ganesha was a gift to the Hindu community of Lansing in 1982 by Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami of Hawaii. Shri Ganesha remained in the home of community members Sudhakar and Usha Kulkarni for ten years, before moving to the newly constructed temple in April 1992. All the other deities were received from India in the summer of 1994 and, along with Shri Ganesha, were installed in a temporary sanctum on October 2, 1994. During the Prana Pratishtha ceremony of June 10-14, 1998, they were permanently installed in the present sanctum, consisting of seven small sanctums (mandaps) designed by acclaimed architect Muthiah Sthapathi of Chennai and built under his direction by a crew of skilled workers. The Prana Pratishtha ceremony, a procedure prescribed by the scriptures to transform the murtis (idols) into living deities -- a once-in-a-lifetime event for any temple -- was a deeply satisfying event for all participants.
The temple has a side sanctum, opening from the main sanctum, for Navagraha Devatas, the nine planetary deities. They were consecrated in a 3-day ceremony over Independence Day 2006 weekend (June 30 - July 2, 2006). Prior to their consecration, they were in a temporary sanctum since September 2001.
The picture above shows the Navagraha Devatas. In the center is Surya (Sun). In the front corner of the picture is Chandra (Moon), and clockwise from there are: Kuja or Mangala (Mars), Rahu (northern nodal point of the moon), Sani (Saturn), Ketu (southern nodal point of the moon), Guru or Brhaspati (Jupiter), Budha (Mercury), and Sukra (Venus). As per tradition, no two of them face each other.
Noteworthy statues at the temple are those of Lord Nataraja (Dancing Siva) in the main temple hall and of Goddess Saraswati in the library. Pictures of these are shown at:
The temple also has another sanctum where Jain murtis are worshipped.
This sanctum was built in 1999 under the direction of Muthiah Sthapathi. He designed it in the second half of 1998, incorporating motifs taken from the Jain temple in Mount Abu in Rajasthan, and his team of assistants completed it in early 1999. In December 1999, murtis of
arrived from India. They were consecrated during Memorial Day weekend in 2000 (May 26-29, 2000).


Archaeologists, it has been said, often find their careers in ruins. Their jobs often entail digging in the dirt for clues. Genuine archaeology involves a lot of hard work, strict procedures, and very little glamour. Yet, in complete contrast to that reality, there persists a romantic notion of archaeology as an exciting form of adventure, treasure-hunting and searching for lost civilisations. The hugely popular 'Indiana Jones' films perfectly embody this romantic view of archaeology. Mysterious ancient artefacts with strange magical properties usually come into the story.
Lost City, Found Pyramid, a collection of twelve essays written by academics and professionals, digs deeply into the question of why so-called 'pseudoarchaeology' has gained such a wide appeal. It examines how non-scientific pursuit of myths and legends has created false perceptions of true archaeology, and even of human history itself. The first part contains numerous case studies of the work of those 'alternative archaeologists'. They are dismissed as "well-intentioned romantics who project onto actual archaeological data whimsical interpretive frameworks or quixotic 'proofs' that confirm legends. . .or other alternative claims". One such legend, for which sensational claims have been made, is the 'Lost White City of Honduras', otherwise known as 'La Ciudad Blanca'.
The editors acknowledge that "crafting the history of a scholarly field is fraught with difficulties". Great innovators often have interests and influences that are now considered to be unscientific. Copernicus and Isaac Newton studied alchemy as a source of ideas and inspiration, and Galileo taught his medical students to cast astrological charts for their patients to help with diagnosis. In the same way, the forerunners of modern archaeology had theories and methods that would now be questionable. The great pioneering Egyptologist Sir Flinders Petrie [left] began with the mystical idea that great events of history were somehow encoded in the dimensions of the ancient monuments at Giza. On the other hand, Heinrich Schliemann, often cited as a founder of modern archaeology, believed that Troy was a real historical city when most historians thought it was only a myth. He did discover it, but is criticised for using dynamite to uncover the most ancient layers.
The second part of the book is entitled "How Archaeologists Should or Should Not Engage with Pseudoarchaeology". It opens with the subject of the 'Central Australian Face'. My Google search for that term gave no results, whereas 'face on Mars' produces millions. The whole story is somewhat tedious in the amount of detail given, but it has some value in illustrating the challenge archaeologists have to deal with when engaging with a member of the public claiming to have made a significant discovery. It turned out to be a case of 'pareidolia', a common cognitive response to see facial features in random shapes.
There are some good chapters on the role of the media, in particular the genre known as 'reality TV', in popularising pseudoarchaeology. The venerable National Geographic comes in for some strong criticism over its TV channel programme Diggers. This show's format was to follow two metal-detector hobbyists visiting various historical sites across the United States. It was presented as a search for 'buried treasure', typically coins minted from gold or silver, historic weapons, ammunition, and other artefacts. A strong outcry from professional bodies led to much-needed changes, such as engaging local archaeologists to have some supervision on site and a role in identifying found items.
On the other hand, the British programme Time Team, presented by Tony Robinson, receives lavish praise for focusing on the archaeological and historical significance of a site. It is commended for minimising the sensational aspects of the subject and emphasising a sense of authenticity and accuracy. In contrast, Dr Zahi Hawass, the famous erstwhile Minister of State for Antiquities Affairs is castigated for unprofessional conduct. In Chasing Mummies: The Amazing Adventures of Zahi Hawass, premiered in 2010 on the History Channel, he puts on a show for the camera with fabricated scenes of danger involving students who risk being fired for failure. The book reports that Hawass was himself sacked by the Egyptian government in 2011.
Some of the most interesting material concerns hoaxes. Indeed, a lot can be learned from hoaxes in general. The so-called 'Newark Holy Stones' are a good example. Ostensibly found by antiquarian David Wyrick in 1860 within a cluster of ancient Indian burial mounds near Newark, Ohio, these artefacts have created a great deal of controversy. One of them, the 'Decalogue Stone', [above] depicts Moses and the Ten Commandments written in a unique form of Hebrew. While appearing to be genuinely ancient, the letters have been shown to be derived from the modern Hebrew alphabet. The Holy Stones were interpreted by some as proving a connection between biblical Hebrews and the Moundbuilders of the American Midwest. Genetic tests done on Native American DNA extracted from burial mounds has conclusively proven that those peoples originated in eastern Asia, and not the Middle East.
Why then do the Holy Stones keep appearing in popular magazines and TV programmes? "The answer is that some biblical or Book of Mormon literalists see the Holy Stones as 'scientific' proof that American prehistory can be accommodated within the narrow confines of their doctrinal frameworks." That says it all. People will believe whatever they want to believe. Religious indoctrination can be so strong as to cause its adherents to insist that the 'proof' offered is itself false or a trick from the Devil to test their faith. Hoaxes like this might also, of course, have been planted to support a pet theory or a political viewpoint. Issues of slavery and racism were being hotly debated at the time of the Holy Stones' appearance. The myth of the 'Lost Tribes of Israel' was strongly supported by the Christian clergy as it validated the ongoing colonisation of America and the Christianisation of the Native Americans.
There is much in this book that will interest and stimulate anyone of a 'Magonian' inclination. Its greatest readership is obviously going to be within the professional and academic circles of archaeology and its students. With a retail price of over £50 it is not cheap. But if you are interested in finding nuggets of information it is a treasure trove. -- Kevin Murphy


Headquarters for Young Men
(The Railroad for Young Men’s Christian Association)
The local YMCA was built by the T&P Railroad employees and located adjacent by to rail yard in Big Spring Texas. Located on the corner of first and main street, The Headquarters for Young Men furnished (library, amusement room, social rooms, men’s gospel meetings, bible classes, etc.) A membership was $5.00 a year.
Operating a few years, it was postponed due to the historic flood July 26th, 1902. Financial hardships, resulted from the hard-hit drought attributed by the great depression in the 30’s. The building finally got torn down in 1934 now with only a few remnants of the building scarcely located at the T&P railroad archives in the local Big Spring Heritage Museum.
The YMCA was reconstructed in the 1958-1960s and finally met its permanent home at our current location now on 801 Owens Street. The Big Spring Family YMCA doors officially opened in 1960 and have been open ever since. We serve all ages from age 0-100+. Serving amenities such as (heated pool, Hoist fitness equipment, basketball courts, various cardio, and gymnastic classes) just to name a few and much more! Thanks to the benefactors and various sponsors that have allowed us to flourish through the tough times, and of course our valued members we have grown to appreciate through their daily visits.
We now have an original newspaper clipping that was donated in 1962 by Anabelle Lovelace
Courtesy of the Big Spring Heritage Museum, probably the only existing from the original YMCA in built in 1902, located in the T&P section at the museum.


Welcome to Whelprigg House
Whelprigg House is a William IV country house in the Jacobean style situated in the old county of Westmorland, a few miles from the market town of Kirkby Lonsdale. It occupies a prominent position overlooking the Lune Valley and commands some fine views, especially to the West. With its spacious rooms and extensive grounds, it provides the ideal setting for group holidays and for special events.
- Holiday accommodation in the North Wing of the house for groups of up to fourteen.
- Hosting of wedding receptions and other events in the gardens.
- Catering for resident groups and for special events at the house.
- Country pursuits, such as fishing and shooting, by arrangement.
- Close proximity to the Yorkshire Dales and to the Lake District.
Whelprigg House is approached by a magnificent gravelled driveway bordered with mature beeches and oaks. As you get nearer to the house you begin to get an impression of the views to come – of the Lune Valley to the West, and of Barbon Fell behind the house, to the East.
Contact DetailsH.C.F. Bowring, Whelprigg House,
Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria, LA6 2LF
The gardens at Whelprigg House are both well–maintained and delightful. In the spring there are swathes of snowdrops, bluebells and then daffodils. In the summer it is the azaleas and rhododendrons that come into their own. Autumn is marked by the turning leaves of the many oaks, beeches and other tree varieties with which the estate has been planted over the years.
The house itself was built in 1834, with various additions being made in the early 20th Century. It is a grade II listed building and is a member of the Historic Houses Association


The historic bank building from 1928 on Sarphatistraat has been redeveloped for the CitizenM hotel group as a hotel with 88 guest rooms.
On behalf of the CitizenM hotel group, Peak Development bought from a private investor a former bank building dating from 1928 that was designed in the Amsterdam School style by architect C.B. Posthumus. The building has now been redeveloped as a hotel with 88 guest rooms.
The building, which originally housed the Amsterdamsche Bank and later ABN AMRO, had the designated use of offices. Peak Development succeeded in finding an opportunity within public law to convert the designated use to hotel. This is unique in Amsterdam’s strict hotel policy.
The design was developed in collaboration with CitizenM, Concrete and Kentie & Partners, taking account of the historic details that are typical of the Amsterdam style. The office building was completely stripped, the huge safe was removed and a hotel was created with a transparent ground floor that contributes to the liveliness of this part of Sarphatistraat (next to the Bakhuys and Lempicka, amongst others). The door is open to guests and residents of Amsterdam to work, hold meetings, and of course to sleep. This is CitizenM’s second hotel in Amsterdam.


1) __________ had promised to end the Depression using the ______________’s powers.
2) The use of government money to create new jobs & increase economic activity is _____________.
3) The ______________ declared many of FDR’s programs to be __________________.
4) The _________________ provided pensions for retired workers.
5) Fair treatment of workers & unions was encouraged by the ______________________.
6) The ______________________ created about 2 million jobs per month.
7) FDR tried to __________ the Supreme Court in order to keep his programs.
8) Roosevelt blamed the ____________ for allowing starvation.
9) Roosevelt was a master at ______________.
10) During his _______________, Roosevelt spoke informally to the people
specific issues on radio broadcasts.
11) Roosevelt’s advisors from Columbia University were called his ____________.
12) Roosevelt’s _____, Eleanor Roosevelt, may have been his most important advisor.
13) During the “________ ________”, Roosevelt was able to get a tremendous amount of legislation passed.
14) FDR wanted an alliance of ________ & ________, __________ & _________,and _________ & __________.
15) _________________ occurs when the government spends more than it takes in.
16) A _________ is a direct gift of food, money, or clothing.
17) In a _________________, a bank seizes the property that was collateral for a loan.
18) The Farm Security Administration gave loans to help __________________.
19) The __________ struck the Great Plains because of over-cultivation.
20) The ________________________insured depositors savings in banks.
21) The _________________________regulated the stock market.
22) The _________________________granted money to cities & states for distribution.
23) __________________provided jobs by paying for public projects like buildings, etc.
24) _____________________hired homeless to build public facilities.
25) _______________________provided cheap electricity to a seven state region.
26) The ____________________offered outdoor work to unemployed single men.
27) The _____________________ paid farmers to reduce production of some things.
28) ___________ broadcast radio attacks against Roosevelt for not going far enough.
29) ______________ wanted to take away the wealthy’s money & to re-distribute it.
30) ___________ wanted to give the elderly _________ a month to help the economy.
31) Roosevelt answered his attackers by announcing a ____________________.
32) The WPA employed _______, ________, ________, ________, _______, & _____.
33) The core of the ____________ was to provide retirement benefits
for workers; it
also helped the unemployable.
34) The SSA did not protect _____________ or __________________.
35) The __________________ Act helped unions to enter into new businesses.
36) In __________ unions, all members have the same skill.
37) In __________ unions, all workers in an industry are members, regardless
38) The ____________ was a new industrial union that went into areas
that the AFL
had not entered.
39) In a ____________ strike, the workers refuse to work, but do not leave the factory.
40) Unions threw their support to the ____________ Party.
41) When Roosevelt tried to cut back federal spending & balance
the budget, the
economy went into a ______________, or a mild downturn in business.
42) The ________________ abolished child labor & set a minimum wage
43) In January 1939, Roosevelt announced ___________________________________.
44) _____________________ did not fare well under the New Deal.
45) The best-selling book of the 1930s was ____________________________________.
46) The New Deal did not plan the economy, it _____________ private enterprise.
1) What were Roosevelt’s three main goals as he began his presidency?
2) What were six tremendous changes brought by FDR’s reforms?
3) What were two ways the Second New Deal legislation differed
from the first?
4) What were 5 causes of the New Deal?
5) What were five effects of the New Deal?


Well, the Arunafeltz states are not as large as the other two nations, it’s a very powerful and creative one. Heavily influenced by religion over politics, this nation was formed approximately 500 years ago, and only recently opened the doors to travelers. Those who are a part of the State religion tend to have hostilities towards the Rune-Midgarts Kingdom. Perhaps why it took 400 years for them to welcome outsiders.
Locations in Arunafeltz


Today’s project is building new bindings for my ~20 year old Atlas snowshoes. They haven’t seen much use for a few years now, and when I got them out for an upcoming weekend trip I realized the main binding part was broken in several places. Apparently the plastic used to make the main binding piece wasn’t meant to last this long.
Improvements in and around our 1909 house in St. Paul, MN
We have this old picnic table that was a hand-me-down from one of my neighbors. They gave it to me several years ago, and it was pretty far from new then.
I finally finished the multi-phase kitchen update started in earnest 5 years ago. Way back in phase 1, the plan was to remove the former back door and make it a permanent wall, and I even planned to do that the next year. Well, it's done now anyway.
This is where we left off with the refrigerator area of the kitchen:
When i bought my house, the worst part of the kitchen was a near-total lack of cabinets. I mean, besides the 4 doors to the kitchen and the lack of home for the refrigerator. But aside from that, cabinets.
Built in 1909, the house likely had free-standing cabinets for most of its life. By the time I bought it the only cabinets aside from the pantry were on the wall around and above the sink.
This is how much storage and counter space we had around the stove:
My house was built in 1909, and i'm absolutely sure that from about 1909 to 1930 or so it was a perfectly delightful and usable kitchen. After that it went downhill because here's the thing: it was never designed with a place to put a refrigerator.
This is a common problem with houses of that era and earlier. They had an ice box in the back hallway that stored perishables and a pantry for the dry goods, and the whole kitchen could be dedicated to utensil storage and work space. (Probably with standalone cabinetry, but that's a story for phase 2).


History of The Berkeley Hotel
The Berkeley Hotel was opened in 1988, but the attention to detail and era leads most visitors to believe that it is much older. Upon selecting the site for a new boutique-style hotel in the historic Shockoe Slip, careful planning and consideration went into the construction of The Berkeley Hotel. Since the site is in a historic district of Richmond, the hotel was designed to be architecturally similar to the buildings surrounding it.
The original idea of a European-style hotel became the focus for deciding upon a name, so in recognition of the Berkeley Castle in England and the Berkeley Plantation, the hotel’s name was created. Mr. Malcolm Jamison, the owner of theBerkeley Plantation, was The Berkeley Hotel’s very first guest at the grand opening in August 1988.
Within just months after opening, The Berkeley Hotel achieved the AAA four-diamond rating and held this honor for many consecutive years. The Berkeley Hotel and The Dining Room have achieved countless awards and honors
Experience your home away from home; where first-rate accommodations and service are customary every day at The Berkeley Hotel.