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thegreenvoyage · 2 years ago

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7 Franklin NC Campgrounds (2023)

Are you looking for the perfect camping spot in Franklin, NC? Whatever your level of experience as an outdoorsman or camper, Franklin has something for everyone. Franklin, North Carolina, is the ideal destination for families and adventurers of all ages, making it one of the best camping locations in the United States. From secluded nature campgrounds to modern RV parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. It’s easily accessible from major cities like Atlanta, Cincinnati, and Charlotte. In this article, we'll explore seven incredible campgrounds in Franklin, NC - all equipped with amenities and activities that will make your next camping trip unforgettable! We'll cover everything from tent camping to cabins and more, so whatever your needs are, you're sure to find something that works for you. Table of ContentsComparison Guides: What are Franklin NC Campgrounds? 1. Rose Creek Campground 2. Franklin RV Park & Campground 3. Mi Mountain Campground 4. Cartoogechaye Creek Campground 5. Downtown RV Park & Campground 6. Standing Indian Campground 7. Winding Stair Campground 5 Campground Amenities That Make You Stay More Enjoyable Activities Sleeping on the ground Fireplace and BBQ Water Activities Cabins How to Find the best Campgrounds for camping? What to Look for in a Campground? Conclusion Comparison Guides: FactorsRose Creek CampgroundFranklin RV Park & CampgroundMi Mountain CampgroundCartoogechaye Creek CampgroundDowntown RV Park & CampgroundStanding Indian CampgroundWinding Stair CampgroundFeedback from travellersPositive ExperiencesPositive ExperiencesPositive ExperiencesPositive ExperiencesPositive ExperiencesPositive ExperiencesPositive ExperiencesCost of living and touring$40 per Night$75 per Night$43+Tax per Night$85 per Night$42 per Night$40 per Night$100 per NightSceneries & BeachesAvailableAvailableSceneriesSceneriesSceneriesSceneriesSceneriesActivitiesSwimming PoolHorse shoesCorn hole (beanbag toss)Catch & release fishing pondGem mine next to campgroundOpen grassy field for gamesParkRestuarantsPlaygroundsHikingGem MinesWaterfallsKayaking/tubing/raftingHiking/biking Our MountainsGem Mining, Gem ShopsGolf, Horseback RidingWater Falls, Hiking TrailsGreat Smoky Mountain RailwayLake ChatugeNantanala LakeGreat Smoky Mountain National ParkWhitewater RaftingSmoky Mountain Center for the ArtsCharcoal GrillPicnic TableCommunity Fire PitMeeting/Game RoomBathhouseDay Use AreaHuntingHikingFishingCampingCamping & CabinsHikingFoodFood and Drinks AvailableDelicius FoodsFood and Drinks AvailableResturants AvailableFood and Drinks AvailableFood and Drinks AvailableFresh FoodsShoppingAvailable Some Best ShopsBrand ShopsBrand ShopsBrand ShopsBrand ShopsBrand ShopsBrand ShopsNightlifeYesYesYesYesYesYesYesTransportationBus, Bike and CarBus, Bike and CarBus, Bike, Cycle and CarBus, Bike and CarBus, Bike and CarBus, Bike and CarBus, Bike and CarAccomodationAvail on SiteAvail on SiteAvail on SiteAvail on SiteAvail on SiteAvail on SiteAvail on Site What are Franklin NC Campgrounds? A weekend at Franklin NC Campgrounds is perfect for hanging out with friends. They offer plenty of amenities, including a playground, a pool, and a fishing pond. These campgrounds are perfect for you if you're looking for a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Top Best Franklin NC Campgrounds (2023) - Rose Creek Campground - Franklin RV Park & Campground - Mi Mountain Campground - Cartoogechaye Creek Campground - Downtown RV Park & Campground - Standing Indian Campground - Winding Stair Campground 1. Rose Creek Campground The accommodations available at Rose Creek Campground are tent sites, RV sites, and cabin rentals. The campground is open year-round and is a great place for those looking for a peaceful, secluded camping experience. Electricity and water are available at the tent and RV sites, fire rings, and picnic areas. The cabin rentals have air conditioning and heat and kitchens and bathrooms. There are also a variety of great restaurants, gemstone mines, breweries, museums, theaters, and a fun factory just 5 miles away from the campground. A camper's stay in the town allows them to explore its many attractions easily. In addition, the campground offers amenities like laundry, showers, and firewood. The store also sells camping essentials like ice and firewood. In addition to hiking, fishing, and swimming in the nearby stream, the campground offers a variety of activities for campers. Playgrounds and game rooms are also available for children at the campground. The recreational activities offered by the campground are horseshoes, cornhole, and ladder golf. Travellers have generally had positive experiences here, praising the beautiful scenery, secluded location, and various outdoor activities available. The campground is also pet-friendly, making it the perfect destination for families with furry companions. Address: 140 Terrace Ridge Dr, Franklin, NC 28734, United States Phone: +1 252-286-2008 Website: https://www.rosecreekcamping.com/ Email: [email protected] 2. Franklin RV Park & Campground A family-run campground in Franklin, North Carolina, Franklin RV Park & Campground provides many camping options, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabin rentals. There are several activities available for campers in the campground, such as hiking, fishing, and swimming in nearby streams. Besides horseshoes, cornhole, and ladder golf, the campground provides a variety of recreational activities. You can find restaurants, gem mines, breweries, museums, theaters, and fun factories. This is a great option for those looking for secluded camping and a peaceful experience. Many travelers have praised the cozy atmosphere and outdoor activities available here, praising the family-friendly atmosphere. Families with furry companions will love the pet-friendly campground, which is also perfect for families with dogs. Address: 230 Addington Bridge Rd, Franklin, NC 28734, United States Phone: +1 828-349-6200 Website: https://www.franklinrvpark.com/ Email: [email protected] 3. Mi Mountain Campground Mi Mountain Campground offers rustic and quiet camping in the beautiful Smoky Mountains. Mi Mountain Campground is a great place to relax and escape the crowds. Few people are around because the resort is in the beautiful Smoky Mountains. Those traveling with an RV or camper can book large pull-through sites daily, weekly, or monthly. Various rates are available for tent camping and cabin rentals. Several waterfalls in Highlands, North Carolina, can be easily accessed from the campground, including Cullasaja Falls, which makes a great day trip. The campground is also close to several other attractions, like Mount Mitchell, the highest peak in the Appalachian Mountains. Mi Mountain Campground is a great choice if you want to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings. Address: 151 Mi Mountain Rd, Franklin, NC 28734, United States Phone: +1 828-524-6155 Website: https://mimountaincampground.com/ Email: [email protected] 4. Cartoogechaye Creek Campground Located north of Highway 64, Cartoogechaye Creek Campground provides visitors with a well-maintained camping experience. The campground offers 50 different sites on a 23-acre meadow and is owned and operated by Dan and Vivian, who are known for their welcoming attitude and efforts to keep the campground spotless. The campground is also pet-friendly, making it the perfect destination for families with furry companions. Campers can easily explore the town's many attractions during their stay. The campground is also a prime location for other activities like golfing, horseback riding, whitewater rafting, and more, making it a great option for those who want to explore the area while enjoying a peaceful and secluded camping experience. Address: 91 No Name Rd, Franklin, NC 28734, United States Phone: +1 828-524-8553 Website: https://www.cartoogechayecreekcampgroundnc.com/ Email: [email protected] 5. Downtown RV Park & Campground Downtown RV Park & Campground is a beautiful RV park located in the heart of Franklin, NC. The campground offers 10 spacious and wooded RV sites, each with full hook-ups, a picnic table, a grill, and access to sparkling clean bathhouses, a clubhouse, and a laundry facility. There are daily, weekly, and monthly RV camping rates available at the campground year-round. You can walk to the downtown area and enjoy all the restaurants, shops, and other attractions the city offers. The campground is also prime for other activities like hiking, fishing, and swimming in nearby streams. The campground is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere and is considered a hidden gem in Franklin. Guests have described the campground as "just like home," and many have praised the campground's convenience, seclusion, and beauty. Seasonal rentals are also available at the campground, making it an ideal choice for travelers. In addition to the on-site amenities, the campground offers a variety of recreational activities like a campfire and a fibber's bench for storytelling and cookouts. Children can also play on the playground and in the games room at the campground. Address: 160 Heritage Hollow Dr, Franklin, NC 28734, United States Phone: +1 941-720-0067 Website: https://downtownrv.com/ 6. Standing Indian Campground Standing Indian Campground is a popular campground located 20 minutes from downtown Franklin, North Carolina. RV sites, tent sites, and cabin rentals are available at the campground in the Nantahala National Forest. In addition to the campground itself, Nantahala National Forest offers several excellent hiking trails. This is a great option if you are looking for a peaceful, secluded, and peaceful place to camp. Address: Off Forest Development Rd 67, Franklin, NC 28734, United States Phone: +1 828-524-6441 Website: https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234228 7. Winding Stair Campground This charming campground features a winding staircase that leads to the campground’s main section. It’s a great place to camp if you’re looking for something special. Franklin has a variety of attractions within easy reach of the campground. You can visit the Franklin Museum of Art or take a walk in the historic downtown district. Also within easy reach are a number of restaurants and attractions. In Franklin, NC, Winding Stair Campground is a great choice if you want a unique camping experience. Address: 7984 W Old Murphy Rd, Franklin, NC 28734, United States Phone: +1 828-369-9776 Website: https://windingstairfarm.com/camping/ 5 Campground Amenities That Make You Stay More Enjoyable Camping is an awesome thing that provides you with complete freedom. It is a great way to spend time with loved ones and enjoy nature in its natural state. And if you are looking for the best camping experience, you should check out the facilities and amenities of the campgrounds. Activities The campground is where you can enjoy various activities, including fishing, hiking, swimming, boating, etc. There are a lot of campsites which offer different services and facilities to the campers. But here I have given you some of the most amazing services and facilities you will love to enjoy while camping. Sleeping on the ground It is quite an interesting thing if you can sleep on the ground. You will feel the breeze of nature, and you will see stars above your head. The noise won't bother you either. If you are a nature lover, try to camp at a site that offers sleeping on the ground. Fireplace and BBQ If you are camping in a campsite with a fireplace and a barbecue, it will be a great opportunity to prepare the food the best way. You can even cook a meal and can even warm yourself up. Water Activities If you plan to spend a weekend camping with your friends and family, do some water activities like canoeing and kayaking. Cabins Getting a cabin might be a good idea if you are looking for one. Not only will you enjoy the peace and calmness, but you can also spend some time with your loved ones. I hope you liked this article about “5 Campground Amenities That Make Your Stay More Enjoyable”. If you plan to spend a weekend with your loved ones, you should try to book a cabin. How to Find the best Campgrounds for camping? Camping is an exciting outdoor activity that allows you to enjoy the beauty of nature while spending quality time with friends and family. Camping can seem daunting if you need to become more familiar with where to find the right campground. Choosing where to begin can be difficult with so many options available. Explore some tips on how to find the best campgrounds for camping, including what to look for in a campground, how to research campground options, and how to make a reservation. What to Look for in a Campground? When searching for a campground, there are several factors to consider to ensure that you find the right fit for your needs. Some of the most important things to look for in a campground: Location: Consider the proximity to the activities you want to do. Campgrounds near hiking trails, for example, are ideal for those planning to hike. Amenities: Pick a campground that provides RV hookups, showers, and laundry facilities to meet your needs. Activities: Consider the recreational activities offered by the campground, such as fishing, swimming, and hiking. Size: Consider the size of the campground. Some campers prefer a more secluded camping experience, while others prefer a more social atmosphere. Policies: Check the campground's pet policy, as well as any other policies that may affect your camping experience. Conclusion Franklin, North Carolina, is a great destination for campers looking for a variety of outdoor activities and a peaceful, secluded atmosphere. In many of the campgrounds in the area, you will be able to rent RV sites, tent sites, and cabins for your stay. Some top campgrounds near Franklin include Rose Creek Campground, Franklin RV Park & Campground, Mi Mountain Campground, Cartoogechaye Creek Campground, Downtown RV Park & Campground, Standing Indian Campground, and Winding Stair Campground. Each campground offers a unique experience and is conveniently located near various outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and rafting. These campgrounds in Franklin, North Carolina, will undoubtedly provide a memorable experience, whether you are looking for a short weekend getaway or a longer vacation. Read the full article

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jennsmischievousmind · 4 years ago

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Fucks not Found

Ghosts

Summary: You hack, that's what you do. Dying to do so freely, wasn't what you had expected. Meeting the weirdest fucking squad; losing the best part of you; falling for a thief : was not planned.

Pairing : Four/Billy (Ben Hardy) - You

A/N: The story goes through the all movie, so I suggest you watch it before reading.

I don't own any characters other than Eight.

English is not my native language, I'm trying to get better at it, please be indulgent.

Tried my best to match Ryan Reynold's level of sass aha

This is how you die.

"So you're the one who hacked the wrong guy" You swiftly turn around gasping at the sudden voice in your apartment

"Depends, you’re his hitman?" You were ready to run even if it means jumping by the window.

"Nooo, I'm an angel.” You snort at his sarcasm, unknown to you at this moment that he was full of it.

"Wanna disappear?" he asked taking a seat at the kitchen table eyeing your bags at the door.

"In a body bag? Slowly you make your way to the knives, just in case.

"You are a funny one, aren't you? I know the man you stole from, you won't get far until he got you. But, he emphasized, if you’re willing to do what's right.."

"I've already done my part for the flag." Assuming he was American by the way he talked.

"I'm not talking about shitty drug dealers. But evil war-lovers, genocide perpetrators, that kind of shitty so-called human. Those ones that are above the laws with governments' balls in their hands, ready to squish them.”

"That's gross" your brother appeared from the adjacent room. You let your mind consider the stranger’s offer as soon as you look at your confused brother, knowing he was in danger because of you.

“You two look at lot alike.” The guy leaned in, screwing his eyes at you both.

“We’re twin dumbass” your brother answered glancing at you wondering.

“What’s the deal?” you asked considering the offer

The guy smirked, “Well, to be short you die, and then you take down evil motherfuckers without governments’ backlash on you.” He tapped his fingers against the Formica table.

It took 5 minutes.

"One condition, my brother comes to!"

"What's he good at?" he crossed his arms.

"I can drive…Hold on what? Die? Who the fuck are you!?”

"Already too many questions” he rolled his eyes

"He's a hell of a driver, it got him under surveillance when he got chased by 6 police cars after an illegal race back in the States."

"So they caught up Muttley” the guy clucked his tongue

“Hey!”

"No, you interfered almost ashamed, I told him to stop the car...I got motion sickness."

The guy erupted in laughter, you two watching him unamused.

“I’m more like Peter Perfect.” Your brother mumbled as the guy left.

You look by the window discreetly, catching a glimpse of the guy mingling in the crowd. “You’re Muttley bro.”

A week later you got a text. The guy who called himself One had planned your fake death. A random trek in Italy’s mountains, an assumed fatal fall, no bodies recovered.

It was never supposed to be your life. But we all know nothing happens as it should.

Papà went to fight a war and disappeared, you were forced to move in America when you were 6.

Mammà never cope the loss of her motherland and husband. She died of a belated broken heart syndrome when you were 16.

Both you and your brother were placed in a host family. It wasn’t a crappy family like it’s always the case in some tv show, they were nice and wealthy. The father was a tech engineer, somehow you took interest in his work and start learning to code, soon reading about hackers: white hats; black hats; “We are Legion”, you were hooked and skilled in a matter of time.

When you turned major though, things turned difficult, the host family had to let you go and Internal Affairs of your state caught you looking in their network. Which led to you working as a C.I for them, it was that or prison. Not thrilled by the idea but obliged to cooperate was your new motto.

Your brother had some job here and there but nothing steady, so money from the IA was welcome.

After a year and a half, I.A ditched you, it was rather good news in a way, they’ve erased your past mistakes but said they’d keep a distant eye on you.

So you moved on from your shithole that was the 1 bedroom apartment you and your brother shared and went to your parents’ hometown in Italy. Your brother was reluctant at first as he couldn’t even say hello in Italian, you taught him as your mamma had done it with you but he wasn’t that interested.

Working with people was not your forte, you were too bossy, so you got fired ... plenty of times: from a coffee shop, a rental bike shop and a tourist city tour bus thingy. So you started doing what you were good at, hacking for money, it went well for a few years, never being too greedy - until you hacked the wrong person and got in trouble.

That's how you became a Ghost and ended up in the middle of the California Desert.

One had built a squad. No names, only numbers to identify each other. Not calling your brother by his name was a challenge, same for him.

There were 7 of you.

One, the “boss”, a mysterious sassy billionaire who decided to fund his own strike team.

Two, a French blonde woman, pretty cold, a spy apparently

Three, a crazy hitman who couldn’t shut up

Four, a young parkour master and reformed thief

Five, a Doctor, but you heard she was actually working at a Dentist

Six, your brother, the annoying driver.

And then Eight, you, the Black Hat somehow becoming a hacktivist.

Why not Seven? Long story short, it was one more condition you’d submitted to One.

_SICILY

"Your focus determines your reality.”

“Oh for fuck's sake One, quit your Jedi bullshit!” you loosed your temper typing on your keyboard angrily. An entire week, an ENTIRE WEEK quoting Star Wars!

Four and Five laughed in the comm. One braced himself on the other end of the line. Three cut the heavy silence.

“Eight, Chiquita please stop yelling”

“I’m not a Chiquita stop saying that!”

“Ok ok chi…Eight, damn you’re stressful”

“God, why do I have to team you up!!” One facepalm

“Now what?” Five asked

Radio silence

“Oh so now no one’s talking! What are you, 4?” One angrily called out to you 2.

“Yeah, uh high, literally.” Four answered One, you snorted.

“No .. damn not you!”

“You called me Mate!” Four said offended

“No, shush – Eight are you done with the system?” he was about to lose it.

“I’ve been done with it the second Three called me Chiquita!” you crossed your arms in front of your laptop.

“Hey ..” “We’re not talking about that again!” One cut Three

“Can we get going now?” Two interfered, you heard her bike roaring.

“Finally, some sensed words.” One said wrapping it up.

Four entered the place you’d hacked the system of. Six and Two were not far in case of trouble.

“Four, the hard drive is in the main office. Second floor.” One enunciated, you followed Fours progression with the security cameras.

It was enlivening, stressful, but oh so exciting. When you worked with I.A you were never there when they’d go down in action, it was nothing but boring data researched and dealer’s MacBook.

“Freeze Four, guards coming east.” Switching cams you gave him a safe path.

“Ok, you’re clear. Now to your left, third door then turn right.”

Four got his hands on the hard drive containing all you needed to know about the next target.

“Well done.” One congratulated the team

“Thanks, thanks, It helps to have a sexy voice guiding you” Four chuckled, you blushed, sexy voice? is that even possible?

“Great, kid. Don’t get cocky.”

You rolled your eyes at the endless use of Star Wars' quotes.

“Hum that’s my sister, remember?” Six growled tightening the wheel

“Luke grab Solo, meet up in 15minutes at the hotel. Everyone move!” One instructed you smiled at the thought of being Leïa. Gosh, you were as much of a nerd as One.

Climbing down the jeep Three had rented, you laughed seeing your brother holding Four in an arm lock for a few seconds anyway, Four reversed the lock, pining your brother’s arms behind himself.

You passed by them “Easy with my twin please.” Four wasn’t releasing his hold so you stopped, turning back you lift an eyebrow at Four insisting he let him go.

“Oh!” he lifted his hands in defence taking a step back.

Grabbing your brother by the sleeves as he was about to jump on Four “Come on piccino” you made your way in the hotel laughing.

Your first big mission started a few weeks after, everyone gathered in The Haunted House as One called it, an old bunker, cheesy name for an HQ.

“You don’t get it, I need a CAR!”

“That’s a car, Six.” Three argued back.

“No that’s a heap, that thing won’t get us through the paved road of Italy, believe me.”

Four and Five were amused by the situation, Three had rent a truck and an old Volvo for this mission.

“Alright, shut up, we’ll get another car!” One declared, Six flicked to Three.

One resumed the mission’s details. Giving everyone their own missions. A simple mission, retrieve a lawyer’s smartphone.

In the midst of it, your hand flew to your brother’s head next to you. The smacked resonating between the walls of the unfinished bunker.

“Why ..why’d you hit him?” One asked confused, your brother was rubbing the back of his head frowning at you.

“Cain’s instinct.” You replied wriggling your fingers for him to continue. Four snorted, Six nudged him in the ribs.

In a few months, you had learned a lot from this weird squad. Learning to shoot was an obligation, Three was insane but a good teacher.

You’d asked Four to teach you some parkour in case of a chase. Six and Four became close friends in a matter of time. Five was nice, but you were never one to be good at making friends. Two was not a big talker and frankly, she scared you a little.

So you spend your free time hacking and reading, on the hammock installed between a dismantle plane and a dead tree. Not far from there you could hear Four skating in the empty pool and three at the makeshift shooting range.

Suddenly,

“EIGHT!”

Groaning you closed your book “WHAT!?

Your voice boomed against the caravan and lost itself in the desert, but you still hoped Four had heard. It was his thing, screaming your name instead of coming to you directly. At his silence, you wriggle out the hammock and strode to the pool.

“What’d you want skater boy?”

He was lying in the pool his board by his side. “Four?” you made your way to the ladder, “hey” you gently nudge him with your foot but he didn’t move.

“Four? you called out worried, “shit” knees hitting the vinyl liner checking if he was breathing, he wasn’t.

“Hey wake up, seriously dude don’t make me do CPR on you, I suck at it!” suddenly laughter erupted in your ears. Six appearing on the edge, Four chucked on the floor.

“Pranking you..he tried to breathe in, is always the best sis!” Six laughed even harder at your confused face. Still kneeling at Four’s side, he was looking at you laughing, until he wasn’t, catching a glimpse of worry melting with anger in your eyes.

Punching his left shoulder, you hurried out the pool. He stayed on the floor watching you go.

“Don’t make me do CPR I suck at it!” your brother was still laughing his brain's out.

“What was that?”

Four leaned on the dead tree near your head, his shadow offering some shade.

“A real bad joke?”

“No I mean, why’d you hit me?”

Sighing you clasped your book closed for the second time today “you really got me worried, happy?”

“No, you propped up on your elbow at his answer craning your head to him, I didn’t mean to scare you.” His warm hand slide in your hair at the base of your neck, he leaned in, letting you enough time to push him away if you wanted.

"Sorry" he whispered, his lips pressing in your temple gently, warmly for a few seconds. Catching yourself leaning in you almost fell off the swinging' hammock as he released his hold, he grinned and left not saying anything more.

"What the hell Four!!" you yelled at him, an ounce of laughter in your voice, a blush creeping into your cheeks, his own laughter filling the desert's silence.

FLORENCE

A/N: don't forget to double tap if you liked it. 🙏

#billy x reader #four x reader #6 underground imagine #four imagine #Ben Hardy #6 underground Four x reader #Fucks not Found

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darkblueboxs · 4 years ago

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Ursa Major

i.e. the beardrew fic 🐻😉

Read here or on AO3 *

“What brings you to town?” The lodge manager flashes Neil an easy smile as he holds the cabin key in one hand. They clink together just out of Neil’s reach, as though he won’t relinquish them until Neil has provided a satisfactory answer.

“Business,” Neil answers shortly, and reaches for the keys.

“Let me know if you want to squeeze a little pleasure in, too.” The manager, whose name badge reading Nicky is almost lost amongst an array of rainbow pin-badges, winks exaggeratedly. Neil keeps his expression carefully blank as he all but pries the keys from him. “Andrew will show you which cabin is yours. He’s chopping wood out back.”

Neil steps out onto the back porch of the reception building, takes one look at the guy ripping logs apart with his bare hands, and decides that he can find it himself. He tries to avert his eyes, but the man stops to watch him pass, wiping sweat from his brow with the back of his hand. He looks like such a stereotypical woodsman that Neil wonders for a second if he walked straight out of a Brawny advert, muscles flexing as he heaves a lump of wood half his size onto the log pile, several days’ worth of stubble dusting his jawline gold and a glowing worker’s tan defying the encroaching winter. He’s so stocky that Neil almost misses the fact that the man is somehow shorter than him, and for a moment his brain short-circuits as he tries to match his impossible presence to his impossible height.

Andrew – because this must be Andrew – barely spares Neil’s scars a second glance, eyes catching instead on the camera swinging around Neil’s neck. Neil’s hands go to it automatically – the device is worth more than his life – but he stills as Andrew drops the log with an earth-shaking thud. “Point that thing at me and I’ll break it.”

“I wasn’t going to.” Neil takes a step back, holding his hands in the air as though proving himself unarmed. “Sorry.”

“Whatever.” He turns back to his work, and without looking at him, adds “Yours is the last on the left.”

Neil makes no effort to hide his relief as he turns and heads up towards the row of log cabins, stumbling over exposed tree roots and pushing branches out of the way where the trees have begun encroaching on the dirt path. The place is quiet, which suits Neil perfectly; he didn’t pick wildlife photography because of his love for human company, after all. Of the dozen or so suites clustered around the central building, only two or three appear to be occupied, muddy hiking gear drying on doorsteps, BMWs with kayaks and bike racks strapped to the roofs parked down at the car park below. Neil chose the single bus that runs back and forth to the town across the lake once a day over risking a car rental on the worn dirt track; for better or for worse, he’s trapped there for the night.

Not that he expects to finish his assignment in the span of a day, but old instincts cry out for getaway options. He and his mother spent months in secluded mountain ranges like this one, but they were as much a threat as they were protection. It was easier to hear of visitors as soon as they arrived in the area, but harder to blend in amongst non-existent crowds.

He dumps his rucksack on his bed – he hasn’t broken the habit of travelling light quite yet – and takes in the neat little cabin (cosier than he expected, like it leapt out of a rustic furniture catalogue) before grabbing his kit and heading out into the hills.

He loses track of time quicker than usual, as he always does when he’s in new places, busy taking in the lay of the land, figuring out which trails are worth his time and which are too packed with litter and foot traffic to be of any use. The vistas are breath-taking; glittering pearl lakes studded throughout the endless verdant valleys, mountain ranges that draw across the swirling skyline like theatre curtains. Landscape photos aren’t Neil’s strong suit, but he snaps a few anyway, just for himself. They never had photos on the run, nothing that could be used as evidence, no footprints left in their wake. Neil likes having the mementos now, thin slips of glossy film that prove that he was alive, he was there, that he was real.

Sunset has bathed the woods in rich oranges as he makes his way back to his cabin, legs aching pleasantly with the memory of a good day’s exploration. There’s a packet of instant noodles waiting in his bag and a kettle in his cabin, but the smells drifting from the eatery in the central building convince Neil to forgo solitude for an hour and cough up for a real home-cooked meal.

Either Andrew has shaved since this morning or he has an identical twin; either way, the man who serves him chunky soup and bread does so with the barest pretences of politeness. Neil ignores the chatter of the other guests and staff as much as possible, flicking through the images on his digital display as he chews through a freshly baked roll. Neil’s twin theory is proven correct when Andrew sweeps into the dining room just as dessert is being brought out, windswept and scowling. Neil watches as he begins arranging kindling in the hearth, and soon the room is glowing with dancing light. Andrew stares into the flames, and the flickering glow carves deep shadows into his features, as though his face is transformed by the light. Neil doesn’t do portraits, but if he did, it would be perfect.

He snaps his gaze away as Andrew looks up, unfortunately catching the eye of the man at the next table.

“Photography, huh?” he says, grinning. He’s muscular too. Neil wonders if there’s something in the water here. “Got any good ones?”

Neil hands him the camera in lieu of answering, trying not to twitch his fingers as the stranger handles his most valuable possession.

“Oh, shit. These are seriously good, like, professional standard. Is this what you do for a living?” He hands the camera back and offers a hand with it. “I’m Matt, by the way.”

“Neil. Yeah, I work for National Parks Magazine.”

Matt whistles. “Fancy.”

“I guess.”

“Well, I’m no expert, but those look great to me. What is it, a tourism piece?”

“Oh, no, these were just for me. I do wildlife photography.”

“Plenty of that out here. I come down most weekends, usually see a few hawks, eagles too. We get lots of bird spotters in the Spring.”

“That’s great,” says Neil, “But not what I need for this assignment.”

“How mysterious.” Matt leans his chin on his hand. “Tell me more, Mister Bond.”

“I’m looking for bears, actually.”

There’s a clatter from across the room that cuts off Matt’s reaction as Andrew’s twin drops a stack of plates.

“Did I hear you say bears?” Nicky appears at Neil’s shoulder as if from nowhere. Neil fights back the impulse to bolt. “Mine is working at the reception desk if you want me to introduce you.”

Matt snorts. “Not that kind of bear, Nicky.”

“I heard there were grizzlies up here,” Neil says. “What do you mean, there’s a bear in the reception?”

“Oh, that’s adorable. No, I just meant my boyfriend. Though he gets a bit grizzly before his first cup of coffee most mornings-”

“There aren’t any bears here,” interrupts another voice, and Neil needs to learn to stop jumping if all the staff are going to sneak up on him like this. He turns to see Andrew’s brother wiping coffee stains from his sleeves. “You might as well leave.”

“Aaron,” Nicky says, “It’s fine, he’s a photographer, he isn’t here to hunt or anything-”

“Pretty fucked up face for a nature photographer.”

“Hey-!”

“It’s fine,” Neil cuts off Matt’s objection. “The scars were my father’s doing. He loved hunting. Me, not so much.”

The group falls quiet, which is the usual reaction his explanation gets. He has never gotten used to the awkward silences that his past invariably invokes, even when he leaves out the years of running, capture, his mother’s slow and terrible death at his father’s hands, his last-minute escape, the months of FBI interrogations and his eventual release. His father had deer heads mounted in his study and Neil remembers vividly the glassy, dead eyes that seemed to watch his every move. No, Neil is not a fan of hunting; he has spent far too long being the prey.

It’s at that moment that Andrew looks up from the fireplace, and Neil can tell from his expression that he has been listening. There’s a strange understanding which has no place on this stranger’s face, and for a moment Neil feels as though he’s stuck in the amber gaze like a fly caught in a honey trap.

“Why bears?” Matt says, and his words are like a hook pulling him from a lake. Neil forces air back into his lungs and turns back to the group. Nicky’s expression has softened, eyes still on Neil’s burns, while Aaron has sunk back into disdain. “Surely there’s less dangerous things to photograph.”

“They’re not dangerous if you’re careful,” Neil replies patiently. “Treat them with respect and they’ll do the same. Besides, I like bears.”

“I hear that,” says Nicky. Aaron pops him in the back of the head, but he waves him off, undeterred. “You should talk to Andrew. He might be able to help you-” There’s a muffled thud which sounds suspiciously like Aaron aiming a kick at Nicky’s shins out of Neil’s line of sight. “-or not, you know, whatever,” he finishes lamely.

Neil glances furtively over at Andrew, who has gone back to staring into the hearth. “It’s fine,” he says, wondering why his mouth feels so dry all of a sudden. “I’m used to finding my own way.”

Desert finished and cleared away, Neil sits with Matt on the couches that occupy the other portion of the communal area along with rows of bookshelves and a desktop computer that looks as though it hasn’t been touched since the nineties. Matt flicks through more of Neil’s photos, stopping on occasion to gasp or croon, while Neil accustoms himself to trusting Matt with his camera. The coffee table is stacked high with leaflets on hiking trails which Neil sets himself to memorising as well as pamphlets on good camping etiquette and forest fire prevention. When Aaron returns and announces that the main lodge is closing for the night by abruptly flicking the lights off, Neil is surprised to realise how late it is already. The fire Andrew started in the hearth has collapsed into flaky grey embers, and when Neil steps out onto the porch the thick smell of smoke clings to his clothes.

Neil and Matt part ways for the night, but only after Matt has extracted a promise from Neil that he will let him show him some of his favourite trails the next day.

Neil thinks he may be unconscious before his head even hits the pillow, and the rustle of the forest follows him into his sleep. In his dreams, wild creatures circle his bed, close, curious, watching, waiting.

He spends most of the weekend letting Matt show him his favourite routes that weave up and down the mountain peaks. Neil wouldn’t usually tolerate so much company, but it’s clear from Matt’s eager nature that he likes having someone to talk to, and his girlfriend, he explains, is on a work placement out of state until next month. Neil is surprised to discover that he doesn’t mind Matt’s presence, and at Matt’s insistence he takes several shots of Matt posing with the valley at his back, which Neil promises to email to him for his girlfriend.

Their hike isn’t all sightseeing, however; Neil pays close attention to any tracks and prints that could point him in the direction of bears, making a note on his map of everything he spots in hope of discerning a pattern. He’s surprised to see a lot of marks close to the popular footpaths, and centred around the lodge, too. Bears usually avoid humans unless driven from their own habitat. Neil wonders if the owners have been less than careful with the bins, encouraging raiders into the foothills scavenging for food.

He spends his evenings in the main lodge, where Matt draws him into conversation with the staff and other regulars. Nicky joins them whenever he isn’t working, and will drag Aaron over when their breaks coincide. Kevin, who is renting one of the upstairs rooms in the central lodge, will occasionally be persuaded to look up from his laptop, upon which he is typing meticulous notes about conservation of historically significant ruins in the area, a topic which Neil pretends to understand on the one occasion that Kevin tries to explain it to him. Andrew, on the other hand, shows no further interest in Neil following their first encounter. Other than occasional odd jobs around the cabins, Neil still isn’t clear on what he actually does, if anything. He seems to spend most of his days out in the wilderness, although Neil and Matt never pass him on any of their walks. Neil almost asks Nicky, but thinks better of it, sensing that such a query would be met with more glee than he is comfortable with.

On Sunday, Matt packs his gear into the back of his pickup and rolls his way back towards the main road, promising to return the following weekend. Neil waves him off, surprised by how quickly the quiet chases away the hum of the engine. He distracts himself from the returning solitude by taking himself off the marked trails and deeper into the wilderness, where the trees grow thick enough to block out the sky and the trickle of springs leads him into sludgy banks that threaten to suck his boots from his feet.

Eventually the earth flattens out as Neil reaches the valley floor, and the springs pool into a small lake that winks at Neil through the trees. Neil finds an embankment to set up on, and is so absorbed in fidgeting with his lenses that he misses the faint crack of branches breaking underfoot.

A shadow looms suddenly in front of him. Neil looks up, and goes still, breath caught in his throat.

The bear hasn’t noticed him yet. He – which he must be, going by the size – is reared up on his hind legs, eight feet tall at least, nose twitching. Neil would normally be jumping at such a stroke of luck, but the shocking bright blond of the bear’s fur stills his fingers on the shutter. He would say polar bear if he didn’t know better, but he does, and they’re about a million miles too far south for that to make sense. So maybe it’s the surprising colour, or the surprise of being so lucky as to just stumble across him, but some combination of the two causes Neil to do something incredibly stupid.

He opens his mouth.

“Oh, you are beautiful.”

The bear goes still. Then he turns, hazel eyes fixing on Neil.

Neil suddenly feels very, very small. Rule one of tracking bears – don’t surprise them. Weirdly, though, this bear doesn’t react in typical bear-like fashion. There is no reflexive snarling, no intimidation, no panic. Just the faintest twitch of his ears, a huff of… irritation?

“Sorry,” Neil says automatically, then winces, because he is talking to the bear now, for god’s sake-

Then again, it isn’t like he’s doing any harm. “You are just adorable. I hope you know that you are so cute. Look at those chubby cheeks!”

And, okay, maybe he’s using the same voice he uses to talk to stray cats, but in his defence, how often does he get the chance to baby-talk a bear?!

The bear just sort of stares at him, which is… odd, probably, but as long as he isn’t snapping Neil like a toothpick Neil isn’t too concerned. The gaze is piercing, like the bear is seeing right through him, and it’s disconcerting enough that Neil almost loses his grip on the camera.

Speaking of which…

Click.

The bear… pulls a face. Neil is about to apologise again, but the words die in his mouth when he drops onto his front paws with a thud that shakes straight through the earth. The urge to run seizes Neil suddenly, hand-in-hand with a familiar burst of adrenaline, and for a moment he’s twelve years old, tripping over his own feet as his mother yanks him through the dark with heart-stopping urgency.

You can’t run from bears, is the thing.

Slowly, Neil pushes himself up the bank, leaning heavy on his arms because he doesn’t trust his legs to support him. The bear just…watches. No, glares.

All at once, the fear that seized him so suddenly is gone, and Neil lets out a shaky breath.

“Thank you,” he says, because it seems rude, almost, to do otherwise. He taps his camera. “You were amazing.”

He scrambles up the bank and back into the woods, heart thudding in time with his footsteps.

Back at the cabin, he plugs his camera into his laptop with shaking fingers. He doesn’t stop to check the photo preview on the camera’s digital display, wants to see it blown up on his laptop screen in full jpeg glory.

It’s been a while since he backed up all his pictures, and as the loading bar trickles towards 100%, Neil’s stomach starts to growl. Grumbling, Neil leaves his computer to finish compiling and heads down to the main lodge in search of food.

It’s midweek, so the dining room is emptier than usual, although Neil spots Andrew in his usual place by the fireside almost immediately. They’ve been successfully ignoring each other since the day of Neil’s arrival, but the day’s events spur him to take a seat at Andrew’s side. “Nicky said you know about bears.”

Andrew flicks a scrap of newspaper into the flames. “Nicky says a lot of things.”

“I saw…” Neil winces. This is going to sound insane. “He looked like a polar bear.”

Andrew huffs, although it’s hard to say whether in scorn or amusement. “You saw a Kermode bear. They’re a subspecies of the American black bear.”

“You see a lot of them here?”

“No.”

It isn’t that Neil thinks Andrew is lying, not exactly, but there’s something he isn’t saying. Neil knows the shape of a secret, how it weighs in one’s chest, and Andrew is keeping something big in there, bristling beneath his skin.

“He was beautiful,” Neil says. “The most beautiful I’ve ever seen.”

“I don’t care,” Andrew replies, and this time Neil swears he can see the bristling. “Don’t say things like that.”

“Why not? I’m a photographer. Finding beauty is my job.”

“Your job is to take pictures of shit and persuade people to pay you for it. Beauty is a construct.”

“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.”

“Exactly.”

“But not in your eye?” Neil guesses. Andrew’s brow creases in irritation. He dismisses Neil’s comment.

“What are you going to do now that you have found your precious bear?”

Neil shrugs. “Onto the next assignment. Wherever that is.”

“Sounds like a strange life.”

“I’m used to it.”

Aaron clatters into the dining room, grinding their conversation to a halt. His irritation turns to an open glare when he sees Neil at Andrew’s side, so Neil moves off to take his usual seat.

After dinner he calls his editor with an update, slouched in one of the communal couches and watching as Aaron and Nicky squabble over a game of pool.

“Neil, I’m telling you, there’s no way you saw a Kermode bear.” Robin says as paper rustles furiously on the other end of the line. “You’re on the wrong side of the continent.”

“But I did. I wish you could have seen him. He was so… calm.”

“Neil,” Robin says, “Are you sure?”

“I have the picture to prove it. I’ll send it over as soon as I’m back in my cabin. Is this, like, a big deal? Do you think there’s some kind of undiscovered subspecies, or… I don’t know, this seems like the kind of thing bear scientists would care about.”

Nicky and Aaron’s bickering suddenly falls silent. Neil doesn’t bother looking up to see why, not when Robin is snorting on the other end of the line. “Bear scientists.”

“I don’t know what they’re called. I’m just the dumbass who takes the photos.”

“Maybe they’ll name it after you. The Josten bear.”

Neil winces. “Poor bear.”

“Alright. I’ll be waiting at my desk. But I swear, if this is another prank or something-”

“I would never,” Neil says innocently. “I know you find my pranks un-bear-able.”

“Oh my god, shut up,” Robin says, and promptly hangs up.

He’s eager to deliver on his promise as soon as possible, but Nicky catches him on his way to the door. Aaron disappeared at some point while Neil was on the phone, which is the only reason he accepts Nicky’s offer of a drink on the house, even if he won’t be persuaded from his soft drink of choice.

“That sounded like a big deal,” Nicky says, gesturing at Neil’s phone while not meeting his eyes. Once again, Neil’s neck prickles with the sense that something is being kept from him.

“Apparently I’ve found a bear species a million miles from where it should be,” Neil says. “It could be a big deal for you, too. Researchers coming to the area means more business for you, right?”

“Wow, yeah, sure.” Nicky’s smile is as pasty as it is wide. “Brilliant.”

“Speaking of,” says Neil. “I’ll be checking out a few days early. If you see Matt, can you tell him I’m sorry I missed him?”

“Sure,” says Nicky, although Neil isn’t sure he’s really listening. Neil glances at the amber liquid swirling in the bottom of Nicky’s glass and wonders if it’s stronger than it looks.

The temperature has dropped sharply in the time it took Neil to eat his dinner, and as he trudges back uphill to his cabin on weary legs the wind cuts through his light gear like a blade. His cabin windows spill orange on the path, a lamp left on, dumb, wasteful, isn’t he always complaining about light pollution-?

Neil stops dead a foot from his cabin door. He knows, knows, knows, that someone has been in since he last was there. The lodge offered daily cleaning services, but Neil had opted out for the duration of his stay, uneasy about strangers having access to his belongings even now that he has nothing left to hide. He wants to believe that they made a mistake in the cleaning schedule, but the same gut instinct telling him someone has been in his cabin tells him that it was no accident. Something is wrong.

Neil pushes the door open with the lightest press of his fingers. Adrenaline hums through him, old instincts reawakening as he prepares to be attacked.

The cabin is empty. No, not empty; the furniture, his clothes, phone charger, hiking gear, all still there…

But no laptop. And no camera.

Neil swears viciously. Before he knows it, he’s back at the central lodge, even though all the lights are out and they’re clearly closed for the night. Neil’s hand hovers over the bell at the front desk as the haze of his panic and fury lifts. They’re in the middle of nowhere, meaning the thief was either another lodger or a member of staff. Any accusations he makes won’t go anywhere.

Neil thinks of Aaron disappearing after his phone call, and instead of ringing the bell he clenches his hand into a fist.

The staff and permanent lodgers live over the main building, and although Neil has never seen the upper floor he can tell which windows are theirs by the glow on the other side of the curtains. The walls are made of thick, horizontal tree trunks that make for easy grips. Neil barely has his foot lodged against the first rivulet when he is caught in amber torchlight.

“Can I help you?” Andrew says rhetorically.

Neil drops back to the ground, teeth grinding together. If Andrew’s brother has resorted to a life of crime, there’s no way his twin hasn’t noticed. “Just looking for my things.”

“You won’t find them up there.” Andrew’s eyes flick up. “That’s Nicky and Eric’s room. I can only imagine what horrors would await you.”

“Which is Aaron’s?”

“You won’t find anything in his, either.”

“You would know, wouldn’t you?” Neil snaps. Andrew’s expression is infuriatingly impassive, and Neil knows that arguing any longer will be as productive as shouting at a brick wall. “Tell your cousin I won’t be checking out early after all. It turns out I have more work to do.”

Andrew clicks the torch off, plunging them both into sudden darkness. “I’m not your messenger boy.” Even in the dark, Neil can feel heavy hazel eyes burning into him.

“I don’t care.” Neil storms back off to his cabin, not waiting for a response. He sends Robin an apologetic text and drops onto his bed. Half-formed plans buzz around his mind like flies, but when he eventually falls asleep, it’s with the memory of a ghostly-white bear looking into his very soul. * Thanks for reading! Chapter two is on its way. <3

#andreil #all for the game #the foxhole court #aftg #tfc #my fic

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two-wheeled-therapy · 3 years ago

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So many things happened on this Thursday that it may very well go down as the Most Memorable Day of the trip. We started out in Roswell, NM and decided to try out the Cowboy Cafe. In one word - AMAZING! The locals say that it is next to impossible to get in without a long wait on weekends, and I can see why. The food will easily go down as Best Food of Trip, our waitress, Marquise, was very friendly and of course Timmy took a liking to her. And their bathroom, has to be the most interesting restaurant bathroom I have ever been in. All this and we've only ridden about 5 miles! After breakfast, we played tourist and visited the Roswell UFO museum before getting back down to the business of riding.

Being the crazy fools we are we headed south to Artesia where the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center is. Of all the centers there are, this is the one that most people don't want to go to, because it is smack dab in the middle of no where, so of course we needed to stop and take a picture of our bikes in front of the place. From there, I had two places that I had been wanting to ride in for a long time, Cloudcroft and Riodoso.

Way back in 1992, when I was on Active Duty, we delivered a shelter system to Holloman Air Force Base in Alamogordo, NM. The delivery, set up, testing and training of the 22 shelter system took a couple of weeks and over the week ends, I visited those towns in the rental car. The seed was planted way back then when I owned Uncle Garry's old 1979 Suzuki GS-850GL, one day I would ride out here.

It took 29 years, but I finally checked it off my motorcycle bucket list! We started out heading up into Cloudcroft. Bob and I had looked at the maps and routed a nice route through the mountains. The Prize of the ride was New Mexico 130 heading south out of the small town. At first it looked like a great road with a slow moving mini van leading us down the road, but the mini van turned off near the top and we were free. Bob was in the lead on his 2021 Road Glide Ultra followed by Bob on his 2015 Voyager and me on my 2011 Voyager. Both Bob and John had just bought their their bikes in the past two months, but watching them dance and chase one another down the mountain, you'd think they both had been riding them for years. Even with some of the dirt runoff from the earlier rains, it was an amazing road. In fact, I would have to put this as my #2 favorite road I have ridden, only behind Lolo Pass which was similar to NM 130, but much longer and it's twists and turns were along a river.

So far on this day, we have what will likely go down as the Best Food of Trip, Most Interesting Restaurant Bathroom ever, and a new #2 as the best motorcycle road ever. Isn't that enough memories for one day, can you really pack any more memorable moments into a day of riding?

PREPARE TO DIVE!

After riding though the amazing mountains, and checking two things off my motorcycle bucket list (I was disappointed with Riodoso, it grew way too much in the past 29 years and was nothing like the small village I remembered, a nice touristy town, but not what I remembered), we headed on to make more progress towards our destination. As we were heading in towards Socorro, NM, John was leading the way down a back road that had some nice little sweepers, and turns and rolling hills. Speaking of sweepers, the road could use one because the rains had caused a lot of washout of dirt and debris across several sections of the road. But from their appearances, the rain waters had subsided much earlier and the sun had baked what was mud into dirt and dust . . . Until we rounded that one corner . . .

When I first saw the shimmer on the road surface, I thought it was the shimmer you see often on the roads in the hot sun, you know where the road kind of disappears and rolls out of the shimmer as you roll forward . . . This one wasn't rolling. Johns brake lights came on and as I applied my rear brake and grabbed a handful of front brake, we both were braking hard. I followed John as he made his way to the center of the road to make his river crossing, thinking that is where I would have gone if I were in the lead, I tucked in behind him. Praying we both had made the right decision, I watched John hit the water, and released my brakes just as I hit it in his wake. Water and mud went everywhere. The water came up to our floor boards. In my rear camera video (to be posted soon) you can see the wakes of the tires and the two out board wakes.

Needless to say, we made it across OK. The water stunk. Anyone who has ever road dirt bikes or ATVs through muddy terrain will know that smell . . . Fortunately we found a car wash and a hotel in Socorro. By the time we went to bed, all evidence of the Voyager U-Boats was gone. But the memories will last forever! The memories and the miles are racking up, and I am now 868 miles from the magical 100,000 miles on my bike.

RIDE ON!

#kawasaki voyager 1700 #kawasaki vulcan #kawasaki vulcan 1700 #kawasaki #kawasaki voyager #vulcan voyager #vulcan motorcycles #vulcan 1700 #blue knights motorcycle club #blue knights law enforcement motorcycle club #blue knights #harleydavidson #harley #questfor100k

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cool-cillian-murphy · 4 years ago

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Bicycle Lights Market Competition & Segment Analysis - The Importance of Diversification

What is Bicycle Lights Market? Bicycle lights are the type of illumination attached to bicycles whose primary purpose is to enhance the visibility of the bicycle and its rider to other road users under circumstances of poor ambient illumination. It is also used to illuminate reflective materials such as traffic signs and catâ€™s eyes. It may also be used to illuminate the roadways so that rider can see the way ahead. Many jurisdictions require one or more bicycle lights to be fitted to bicycles ridden at night, usually a white light in the front and a red light at the back. Free Sample Report + All Related Graphs & Charts @ : https://www.advancemarketanalytics.com/sample-report/11240-global-bicycle-lights-market-2 Latest released the research study on Global Bicycle Lights Market, offers a detailed overview of the factors influencing the global business scope. Bicycle Lights Market research report shows the latest market insights with upcoming trends and breakdown of the products and services. The report provides key statistics on the market status, size, share, growth factors, Challenges and Current Scenario Analysis of the Bicycle Lights. This Report also covers the emerging player’s data, including: competitive situation, sales, revenue and global market share of top manufacturers are Garmin Ltd. (United States),Cygolite (United States),Cateye Co., Ltd. (United States) ,Shenzhen Gaciron Technology Co., Ltd (China),Goldmore Co., Ltd. (China),Lord Benex (Taiwan),Knog (Australia),Smart Bike Light (Taiwan),NiteRider Technical Lighting Systems (United States),Serfas (United States),.

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recreation-law · 5 years ago

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zenmountainhouse · 2 years ago

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nationalparkposters · 4 years ago

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Best Things To Do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Best Things To Do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park: Though it's only a short distance from the urban areas of Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park seems worlds away. The park is a refuge for native plants and wildlife, and provides routes of discovery for visitors. The winding Cuyahoga River gives way to deep forests, rolling hills, and open farmlands. Walk or ride the Towpath Trail to follow the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal. You can fish, golf and even enjoy skiing and snowboarding! My name is Rob Decker and I'm a photographer and graphic artist with a single great passion for America's National Parks! I've been to 48 of our 61 National Parks — and Cuyahoga Valley is a great place to visit - regardless of the time of year! Cuyahoga Valley is unusual in that it is adjacent to two large urban areas and includes a dense road network, small towns, and private attractions. I have explored much of the park — so I'm ready to help! If this is your first time to the park, or your returning after many years, here are some of the best things to do in Cuyahoga Valley National Park! Ride the Scenic Train The National Park Scenic Railway is a unique way to experience all the natural wonder Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Sit back and relax as the train weaves through the Cuyahoga Valley and races along with the rushing Cuyahoga River. Look for eagles, deer, beavers and otters in their natural habitat. From January-May, the National Park Scenic excursion is a two-and-a-half hour round trip through Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Board at Rockside Station, Peninsula Depot, or at Akron Northside Station. From June through October, the train runs Wednesdays-Sundays on an extended schedule. You can choose from a variety of seating options including coach, table top, first class, lounge, upper dome, executive class, or suites. Hiking You can hike more than 125 miles of trails in Cuyahoga Valley National Park that range from nearly level to challenging. ,Pass through various habitats including woodlands, wetlands, and old fields. Some trails require you to cross streams with stepping stones or log bridges, while others, including the Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, are nearly level and are accessible to all visitors. A portion of Ohio's Buckeye Trail also passes through the park. Biking Biking the Towpath Trail This multi-purpose trail was developed by the National Park Service and is the major trail through Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Mountain Biking The East Rim Trail System has stunning views, varied terrain, exciting obstacles, and an element of adventure for anyone who explores it. Bike and Hike Aboard Bike or hike the Towpath Trail in one direction and hop on the train on your way back! The train can be flagged down at boarding stations by waving both arms over your head. You should arrive 10 minutes prior to the train's scheduled arrival...and you can pay your fare when you board. Visit the Beaver Marsh The Beaver Marsh is among the most diverse natural communities in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The exceptional scenery and wildlife make it one of the park's most popular destinations. Here you can enjoy photography, bird watching, and sharing nature with family and friends. Enjoy Brandywine Falls Brandywine Falls is one of the most popular locations in the park. This 65-foot waterfall is accessed via a partially accessible boardwalk. For a more challenging trip, take the steep stairs to the lower viewpoint or the 1.4-mile Brandywine Gorge Trail. Hike or Picnic at The Ledges The Ritchie Ledges are witnesses to change - from creation out of Sharon Conglomerate millions of years ago, to landscapes wrecked by humans and to preservation today. The Civilian Conservation Corps created the park you see today, building trails and shelters throughout the area. Explore Blue Hen Falls This 15-foot waterfall is a beautiful hike every time of year. There is a small parking lot located across the street from the main trailhead. From there, the falls are a steep half-mile hike. Fishing The Cuyahoga River and numerous ponds are open to fishing. Cuyahoga Valley National Park's philosophy is to maintain the predator-prey relationship rather than to stock fish for recreational fishing. Catch-and-release fishing is encouraged to maintain the fish populations needed for continued sport fishing. The park has over 65 species of fish that live in its waters. Steelhead trout and bullhead can be caught in the Cuyahoga River. Bluegill, bass, and crappie can be caught in lakes and ponds in the park. Kayaking and Canoeing People who want to canoe or kayak the Cuyahoga River in Cuyahoga Valley National Park need to bring their own equipment and have experience to manage the safety risks posed by the river. The National Park Service does not maintain the river for recreational use. Canoeing and kayaking the river can be dangerous. Water quality, low head dams, and debris in the river all pose hazards. Horse Riding Viewing the Cuyahoga Valley landscape from horseback is like no other experience. Horseback riding is permitted only on trails signed and designated as horse trails. Horses need to be brought in as there are no horse rentals adjacent to the bridle trails. Try Your Hand at Canalway Questing Find more than 40 adventures—called quests—along the Ohio & Erie Canal! Put on your sleuthing hat and follow rhyming clues and a curious map to each hidden quest box. Along the way, discover the area's treasures—the natural and cultural gems of the Canalway. Unlike geocaching, no GPS unit is needed and no trinkets are exchanged. When you find a quest box, collect its unique stamp, sign its logbook, and put it back in place for others to discover. Golfing Cuyahoga Valley National Park offers the unique opportunity for golfing within the park, although none of the golf courses are federally owned or operated. You can golf at any of the following courses: Astorhurst Country Club Brandywine Golf Course Shawnee Hills Golf Course Sleepy Hollow Golf Course I've created a poster to celebrate Cuyahoga Valley National Park that features the famous Brandywine Falls. The poster can also be purchased at the Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park shops in the park! Click here to see the Cuyahoga Valley National Park poster. Rob Decker is a photographer and graphic artist with a single passion for our National Parks! Rob is on a journey to explore and photograph each of our national parks and to create WPA-style posters to celebrate the amazing landscapes, vibrant culture and rich history that embody America's Best Idea! Click here to learn more about Rob & the National Park Poster Project! https://national-park-posters.com/blogs/national-park-posters/best-things-to-do-in-cuyahoga-valley-national-park?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=Sendible&utm_campaign=RSS

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wesfike · 4 years ago

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Blue Mountain Resort reopening some summer attractions

Blue Mountain Resort will open some of its summer attractions for the weekend in conjunction with the provincial government’s Phase 2 reopening plan.

On Friday, the resort will reopen a number of outdoor attractions, including its open-air gondola, mill pond activity centre, Cascade mini golf course, the Chutes and Lumber ball run, and cross-country bike rentals.

The move comes after the resort opened its mountain hiking trail network last weekend. This year the resort requires users to purchase passes or tickets to access the trail network. Manager of Public Relations Tara Lovell said recently that the passes are required to both maintain the system and to monitor capacity. Attractions will operate at a reduced capacity compared to years past due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The resort’s Monterra Golf course also opened in May.

All of the activities that will open on Friday are included in the resort’s new Play All Day Pass, a day pass that provides unlimited access to summer attractions at the resort, a news release said.

The resort has gone through a lot of work in adapting its operations in response to COVID-19, the release said.

“The way guests flow through the resort and engage with our Blue Mountain team will be different,” Lovell said. “With safety as our top priority, we are welcoming guests back to Blue and look forward to families sharing great summer experiences with us once again.”

The public is advised to visit bluemountain.ca when planning to visit to familiarize themselves with the changes to operations. It is also advised that passes are pre-purchased online with the resort limiting capacity this year and daily quantities of passes available.

Guests who want to take part in attractions are asked to park in the P2 parking lot, which is the main lot on Jozo Weider Boulevard. Those wanting to access the hiking trails are asked to park in lots P1 or P4.

Details about attractions and operating hours are available at bluemountain.ca

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recreation-law · 5 years ago

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Summer is coming, and your business will be opening soon. Need a professionally written release?

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dramallamadingdang · 7 years ago

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Some replies.

For @holleyberry, @lady-bane, @strangetomato, @ajaysims, @mustluvcatz-reloaded, @sideblogsimblr, @kayleigh-83, @simper-fi, @spectral-cat, @sigmundsims, and @phoenixdaisy...

holleyberry replied to your photo “Adventures in floor plan “shopping.” I was looking on some floor plan...”

That is a cute house.

It really is. I wanted something tiny, that I can put on a 2x2 lot (and then maybe chop down to 1x2) with two full floors and outdoor living space, and that’s one of the few I’ve found so far. It has a cute screen porch on the back, too, in addition to the wrap-around. I’ll probably use it for the custom beach vacation neighborhood I want to build, too.

lady-bane replied to your photo “Adventures in floor plan “shopping.” I was looking on some floor plan...”

THEY'VE FOUND US GET TO ZE CHOPPAAAA

VE CANNOT HAVE A MOMENT’S PEACE EVEN ON HOLIDAY!

strangetomato replied to your photoset “And while we’re in vacation neighborhoods, have you ever looked...”

I agree. :) And I've never noticed the the mer-llama before!

Honestly, I only noticed the mer-llama when I took that pic! I never really looked at the back of the ship much before because, on the lot it’s sitting on, it has big rocks behind it. But I wanted to take a pic of the “windows” back there, and saw that, which was pretty awesome. :)

ajaysims replied to your photo “Thing I Just Noticed in a Game I’ve Been Playing For a Decade”...”

Have to admit that I can count the amount of vacations my sims have taken on one hand. BV is my least-played expansion. Mainly because in my mac version it was glitchy as hell and I ended up with sims stuck and all sorts, so I just gave up on it. Now I'm playing a PC version, I should give it another whirl.

You really should. I confess I’m really not all that excited about the doing all the things on vacation anymore, since I’ve already done them. (Although I do like bringing home Bigfoot from Three Lakes. I have modded objects that will spawn a Bigfoot, but that’s just not the same. :) ) It’s more being able to send Sims there and let them relax and do different things they wouldn’t normally do, without any jobs (or, for me, childcare, since I usually send only singles/couples and sometimes adult siblings on vacations) and other things to worry about. It can also be a place for singles to find romance amongst people they wouldn’t otherwise meet. Just make sure you’ve patched, if you’re not using the UC, because BV as it was released was super-glitchy, even the PC version.

Also, I like building vacation houses, both “rentals” and ones that can be owned and that aren’t ugly like the Maxis ones.

mustluvcatz-reloaded replied to your photoset “And while we’re in vacation neighborhoods, have you ever looked...”

And of course I notice the unmapped bottom of the whateverthatssupposedtobelayingonitsside, lol.

LOL, yeah, that was the one thing they missed. I’m going to guess that they just chopped off one of the mesh’s masts to the make the extra lying-down one. (Which is what I think that’s supposed to be; sailing ships of the day often carried an extra mast on board in case one was destroyed by weather or blown up by a cannonball. Either that, or it’s supposed to be a fallen mast, since the ship is dilapidated anyway.) So, the bottom wasn’t mapped since otherwise the masts are standing upright. Too bad they didn’t fix that. Maybe it was an afterthought sort of thing and the non-mapping wasn’t noticed or there wasn’t enough time to fix it.

I love the cannons in that pic, though. Especially the one lying on its side. They have a really lovely weathered-bronze patina, which is a nice touch.

sideblogsimblr reblogged your photoset and added:

i had totally forgot about the llama figurehead,...

It’s an awesome figurehead. It’s not surprising that it’s a llama, of course, but the texturing on it is very nice, too. Someone needs to restore the gold leaf on it, though. ;)

kayleigh-83 replied to your post “My fellow vegans...”

I’m not vegan myself but I know people who are/were and I know daiya is sold in Canada for sure

Ah, good to know for when I find myself up there again. :) I was about 80% sure I’d bought some up there during one of my extended stays, but more and more my memory is becoming less dependable, so...

kayleigh-83 replied to your photoset “And while we’re in vacation neighborhoods, have you ever looked...”

I always thought the pirate ship was pretty amazing and well done!

simper-fi replied to your photoset “And while we’re in vacation neighborhoods, have you ever looked...”

I LOVE the pirate ship textures!

They did a really good job with it. Whoever textured the pirate ship should’ve textured more things in the game, IMO. They have some excellent attention to detail, unmapped bottoms of masts notwithstanding.

spectral-cat replied to your photo “Thing I Just Noticed in a Game I’ve Been Playing For a Decade”...”

I honestly just noticed it tonight as well, as I was making over this lot tonight.

It’s actually quite authentic to cover the entire floor of a structure in tatami mats, from what I understand. (I’ve never been to Japan. Other countries over there, yes; Japan itself, no.) I’m not sure that type of building would be one that would be done that way, but it was nice of Maxis to do a little nod to the culture that way.

sigmundsims replied to your photo “Ahhhh, Three Lakes. There’s lots of room once you demolish all the...”

I love the idea of “off road” rentals! It’d feel more rustic.

Yeah, honestly, I’m trying to make Three Lakes...Well, more like home. :) Where I live is a ski resort, primarily, but there are all sorts of other outdoor things that are big in the general area. (Which is SW Colorado/the Four Corners in general.) Aside from skiing, hiking/climbing, mountain biking, hunting/fishing, jeeping, kayaking, snowmobiling, horseback-trekking, etc. are all huge here. Ice climbing is big in the town where I live, specifically, since there’s a big waterfall right outside of town that freezes every winter. And yes, people who do those things will stay in out-of-the-way rustic cabins. Some, of course, will stay in luxury hotels/lodges, true, but the real outdoorsy (and non-rich/celebrity) people don’t. So I want to give at least the appearance of those activities being available, and I’m building the rustic “amenities” to go with it. So basically, less “lumberjack village” and more “artsy-hippie-outdoorsy ski resort.” I’ve already placed a lot in an off-road, out-of-the-way location to be a hunting camp using Sun & Moon’s hunting spawners, and I’m going to take a look at Chris Hatch’s skiing mod to see how it works...

phoenixdaisy replied to your post “And another thing I'd like!”

Maybe someone could steal animations off a closet or single shower to make one for you? I'd think that would be easier than all new animations, but I'm neither an object nor animator creator so I'm just speculating. If someone does make this for you, I'd totally download it, too, though. That'd be super useful.

@kayleigh-83 linked me to this object by @midgethetree which is very close to what I’m looking for but is for recharging servos, not for “recharging” vamps. So if that object could be merged with the coding (or whatever) for vampire coffins...Yeah, that’d be what I’m looking for. :)

#lady-bane #strangetomato #ajaysims #mustluvcatz-reloaded #sideblogsimblr #kayleigh-83 #simper-fi #spectral-cat #sigmundsims #phoenixdaisy #replies

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velo-graf · 5 years ago

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Auf dem Hintern des Zauberers / On the wizard’s butt

Auf “Kouzelníkův zadek”, dem “Hintern des Zauberers” fliege ich durch das felsige Tal der Divoká Šárka am nördlichen Rand von Prag. Ich bin nicht alleine, viele Spaziergänger kreuzen meinen Weg an diesem sonnigen Samstagnachmittag, und sie wundern sich nicht im Geringsten über mein magisches Transportmittel. Vielleicht sind sich die Leute hier einfach mehr gewohnt. Oder sie sehen in erster Linie einen Radfahrer auf einem Mietrad, was ist da schon dabei. Für mich ist es der Hintern des Zauberers, der mich trägt. Nicht, dass das meine Einbildung wäre. Tatsächlich hat jedes der violetten Mietvelos, welche in Prags Strassen für eine moderate Gebühr zur Nutzung bereitstehen, einen Namen. Dieser wird in der Smartphone-App angezeigt, sobald man das ausgewählte Fahrrad auswählt und in Betrieb nimmt. Als ich den eingeblendeten Namen lese, muss ich schmunzeln.

Irgendwie bezeichnend, dass ausgerechnet die vor einigen Wochen ausgebrochene Coronavirus-Krise mich wieder aufs Rad bringt. Über ein Jahr lang trieben meine Beine praktisch keine Zweiräder mehr an, sondern trugen mich als Fussgänger durch eine sehr turbulente Zeit, in der dieser Blog brach lag. Seit drei Monaten lebe ich in Prag, angezogen durch seine Welt der Marionetten. Doch nun hat die Pandemie alles zum Stillstand gebracht und ich sitze regelrecht fest, ziemlich beunruhigend im ersten Moment. Nach der ersten Schockstarre beschloss ich, mich wieder in Bewegung zu setzen. Denn ist nicht gerade dies der ideale Augenblick, meine Umgebung genauer kennenzulernen? Eigentlich schon, wäre da nicht die Pandemie. Möglichst zuhause bleiben und Kontakt vermeiden ist das Gebot der Stunde. In Tschechien sind Spaziergänge und Bewegung im Freien jedoch ausdrücklich erlaubt, sofern man sich nicht in Gruppen bewegt und eine Schutzmaske trägt. Das ist die Stunde des Fahrrads!

So steige ich wieder auf. Auf dieses Mietrad mit dem lustigen Namen. Den Hintern eines Zauberers kann ich jetzt gut brauchen. Die ersten Meter sind wie eine Befreiung, als hätte ich eine verlorene Fähigkeit wiedererlangt. Ich radle durch die wenig befahrenen Strassen Prags zum östlichen Eingang des Šárka-Tals, ein Naherholungsgebiet und Naturschutzgebiet im Norden Prags. Die leicht ansteigende Strasse, welche durch die wilde Parklandschaft führt, folgt dem Bach Šárecký potok. Irgendwann verwandelt sich die Strasse in einen Naturweg und ich finde mich mit Spaziergängern und Radfahrern inmitten einer erwachenden Frühlingslandschaft wieder. Die Atemschutzmasken der Passanten passen nicht so recht ins Bild, doch nehme ich sie eigentlich nicht mehr bewusst wahr. Der starke Duft von Bärlauch sticht mir in die Nase und ich erblicke die frisch spriessenden, hellgrünen Gräserteppiche an den Ufern des Baches. Bereits machen sich viele Spaziergänger darüber her und füllen die mitgebrachten Taschen. Das Hamstern scheint sich von den Supermärkten in den Wald verlegt zu haben. Der Mensch ist wohl einfach ein Hamster.

Etwas keuchend stampfe ich auf dem Hintern des Zauberers auf eine felsige Anhöhe hoch. Wie lange ist es her, als ich das letzte Mal so schwitzend einen Berg hochfuhr! Oben angekommen blicke ich auf das ganze Tal und die dahinter beginnende Stadt. Ich zücke meinen Skizzenblock und halte die Landschaft in einer Tuschezeichnung fest. Seit ich in Prag bin, habe ich wieder vermehrt zu meinen Zeichenstiften und Malpinseln gegriffen. Die entschleunigte Zeit bietet nun beste Gelegenheit, sich intensiver mit der Umgebung zu befassen und genauer hinzusehen. Im Abendlicht trägt mich der gemietete Zauberhintern dem Bach entlang wieder hinunter an den Eingang des Parks, dort, wo der Bach in die Moldau mündet. Ein paar Schritte vor meiner Wohnung steige ich von meinem Gefährt ab und blicke nochmals kurz zum “Kouzelníkův zadek” zurück. Vielleicht sehen wir uns bald wieder.

I fly on “Kouzelníkův zadek” (the “wizard's butt”) through the rocky valley of Divoká Šárka on the northern edge of Prague. I am not alone, many walkers cross my path on this sunny Saturday afternoon, and they are not in the least surprised about my magical means of transport. Maybe people are just more used to it here. Or they see primarily a cyclist on a rental bike, so what? For me, it's the wizard's butt that carries me. But it's not my imagination. In fact, each of the purple rental bikes that are available for a moderate fee in Prague's streets has a name. This is shown in the smartphone app as soon as you select the bike and put it into operation. When I read the name that appears, I have to smile.

Somehow it is significant that the coronavirus crisis that started a few weeks ago brought me back on the bike. For over a year, my legs practically stopped driving two-wheelers, but carried me as a pedestrian through a very turbulent time, in which this blog was now idle. I have been living in Prague for three months now, attracted by its world of puppets. But now the pandemic has brought everything to a standstill and I'm quite stuck. After the first shock, I decided to start moving again. Isn't this the ideal time to get to know my surroundings better? Actually yes, but staying at home and avoiding contact is the order of the day. In the Czech Republic, however, walks and outdoor exercise are permitted, but only if you are not moving in groups and wearing a protective mask. This is the hour of the bike!

So I get on again. On this rental bike with the funny name. I can use a wizard's butt well now. The first few meters are like a release, as if I have regained a lost ability. I cycle through the little-used streets of Prague to the eastern entrance to the Šárka Valley, a local recreation area and nature reserve in the north of Prague. The slightly rising road that leads through the wild parkland follows the Šárecký potok stream. At some point the street turns into a natural path and I find myself with walkers and cyclists in the midst of an awakening spring landscape. The passers-by masks do not really fit into the picture, but I actually no longer consciously notice them. The strong scent of wild garlic sticks in my nose and I see the freshly sprouting, light green grass carpets on the banks of the stream. Many walkers are already invading these spots and filling the bags they have brought with them. The hamsters seem to have moved from the supermarkets to the forests. Man is probably just a hamster.

Panting a little, I stamp on the wizard's butt up a rocky hill. How long has it been since I last climbed a mountain so sweaty! Once at the top, I look at the whole valley and the city that begins behind it. I pull out my sketchbook and capture the landscape in an ink drawing. Since I have been in Prague, I have increasingly used my crayons and paintbrushes. The decelerated time now offers the best opportunity to take a closer look at the surroundings. In the evening light the rented magic butt carries me along the stream back down to the entrance of the park, where the stream flows into the Vltava river. I get off my vehicle a few steps in front of my apartment and take another quick look back at “Kouzelníkův zadek”. Maybe I’ll meet him again soon.

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brightquang · 5 years ago

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Man of Suffering Shares His Light with the World

Two New Books Reveal One Man’s True Experiences as Immigrant, Artist and Political prisoner Redwood City, California- Those who dare to take a stand and act on their beliefs often find themselves in a lonely place, subjected to ridicule and persecution. Bright has traveled that road for most of his life, from his war-torn homeland of Vietnam to the shores of America. He shares his remarkable story and unique views on life in two books: Road to the United States Part I and Part 2 (both available through Authorhouse). “I have forgiven others often, but I have never forgiven myself,” writes Quang. His books chronicle more than 50 years of hardships suffered as a result of war and hated of others. At the same time, they deliver thought-provoking ideological views and predictions of a future America that Quang has gathered from his observations of political, economic and sociological factors in a rapidly changing world. Quang relates his early education and artistic training, and mixed with these anecdotes are horrifying accounts of his family’s brush with communist spies and his own experience as a political prisoner. After living in Saigon in the 1980 s, Quang “inched toward escape,” eventually making his way to the United States. Along the way, he recorded his observations and distilled these into stories and poetry. The concluding chapters of this two-part series address his decision to come to the United States and the opportunities and future struggles he faced. Quang also includes and analysis of many facets of American life and predictions for the fate of the country. Historical background, social and political analysis and guidelines on how to live a virtuous life all await readers’ discovery in two intriguing books: Road to the Unites States part I and Part 2. Bright Quang is the pen name for Nguyen Xuan Quang. Born in Quang Ngai City, Vietnam, he immigrated to America in 1993 under the Humanitarian Operation program. He graduated from Hue College of Arts in Hue City, Vietnam, and later, from the University of Police in Saigon. He earned an associate’s degree in art at Canada College in Redwood City, Calif., and a bachelor’s degree from California State University in Hayward. An award-winning poet and artist, he has exhibited in galleries throughout the United States. He has previously published books in both English and Vietnamese, and the titles include Poetry & Art, My Innermost Song, Dinosaur Love and My Torch (available through AuthorHouse). Quang currently lives in Redwood City. AuthorHouse is the premier publishing house for emerging authors and new voices in literature. For more information, please visit www.authorhouse.com. Kelly Rockhill, Press Release Specialist. Promotional Services Department. Authorhouse 1663 Liberty Drive, Suite 200 Bloomington, IN 47403 Toll free: 888-728-8467 Fax: (812)961-3133 [email protected].

Elizabeth H. House reviewed books Road to United States of America chronicles moments of his experience, combining personal anecdotes with an investigation of patriotism as a concept. Following his idea of “ three ways of learning: seeing much, suffering much, and studying much,” Bright Quang recounts his impressions of range of positions, from “a lieutenant of South Vietnam government and a Vietnamese artist” to a student at California State University. Along the way Bright Quang draws upon an understanding of political, economic, and sociological factors that may have underscored roughly the latter half of the twentieth century and beyond. In 1959, Bright graduated elementary school and quickly transferred to high school in Quang Ngai City, typically walking about fifteen miles each way until his brother donated his bike to Bright. A degree of turmoil emerging in Vietnam begins to touch Bright Quang’s family and one night during dinner his father tells about “a network of the Vietnamese Communist spies.” “His relationship with Perfume and his educational goal.” Stood in jeopardy of being “interrupted by the unreasonable war.” Bright decided to transfer to Hue College of Arts to study in art. Along the way Bright met Mercury, who offered to share room, to her rental. In 1973, the American and Korean soldiers gathered all of the villagers living in the Communist military supervision, including Bright’s mother, relatives and friends, sending them to the free area of South Vietnam. As the work progresses, Bright relates a series of encounters, some of which test his level of resolve in one-way or another. At one point while Bright was leaving the war zone, went hiking in the mountains and encountered an infantry Division of the new Vietnamese revolution…and the vanguard company arrested Bright. Bright met their leader and told him, “I now am seeking freedom because I could not live together with the cruel Vietnamese Communist government which was an unjust cause.” He apparently aided Bright to seek the sail of refuge, providing a boat and he said, “Before your face is Malaysia, on your right is Thailand, and left is Singapore.” In 1980, Bright lived in Saigon for a time, worked as a sculptor. As Bright inched toward escape, reviewed public opinion, often filtered his responses into his poems and stories. The concluding chapters of his “Road to the United States of America” describe his decision to leave Vietnam in 1993, largely spurred by a goal “to gain freedom of speech, thoughts, and to recapture a dream.” Later Bright analyzes various facets of American society, from morality to factors that may have underscored participation in the World War II. As a Vietnamese sculptor, poet, and ex-political prisoner of conscience, Bright provides a potentially and often-candid glimpse at the concept of America. Overall his offering is designed to communicate points of his own journey as express an interest in a related topic. “My Torch” presents a collection of thoughts exploring the layers of emotion sometimes defining the human condition, particularly in regard to what many be viewed as difficult circumstances. Having “saved” your work by apparently burying it during a “six-year concentration camp incarnation,” You consider the people and ideas that may have influenced your “my perspective in one way or another. Along the way you highlight qualities relating to identity, belief, and love in various forms. Several selections incorporate a spiritual approach. For example, I Love Sunlight,” “A Gull’s Friend,” and “The Helpless Life” refer to elements of nature as if to place the individual within a relatively broader context of being. Other entries such a “The Fire of Love” and A Night of Lovesickness” delve into the feeling usually associated with romance. Turning to slightly more public matters, “A Homeless Child” and Dreaming of Peace” draw upon personal notions of social responsibility, patriotism, and democracy. Aspects of your experience inform much of the text, with pieces including,” Saigon at Night, “My Countrymen,” and Ten years of Tribulation,” suggesting how a person’s sense of self might occur as a function of place, vocation, or human interaction. Later, “I’m a Sculptor” hinges on a similar theme: In Heaven’s own light the sculptor shone I catch that angle vision. Sculptor of life is I, as I stand With my life uncovers before me Waiting for the hour when, at God’s command My life dreams passed over me…

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trogersracing · 5 years ago

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Challenge Roth - 2019

I signed up for this (my second full distance triathlon) before having ever completed my first. I randomly saw a tweet from the race organizer that several registrants had not completed the sign up process and they were re-releasing the entries. I wrote a hasty email not thinking I’d be one of the first to respond and was amazed that I was able to nab a spot. Knowing that I could try to sign up for the race lottery for the next years and never get an entry I took advantage and decided to go for it. I though it would be a nice ‘A race’ for the summer not knowing how Barcelona would go or what else Carly and I would be getting into for travel. Fast forward a bit and I qualified for Kona at Barcelona so Roth became much more of a ‘fun’ race, but still an important tune up and experience before going to the big island. I was excited to race the distance again and experience the fabled Challenge Roth atmosphere.

Though the body seemingly had other plans, in late January/February I thought what was a strained groin turned out to be a mild hernia. Carly and I joke that I literally ‘busted a gut’ at Barcelona. The other line was that the my body was rejecting me and this was a not so sublt hint to cut this shit out. Regardless, I took quick action and scheduled the surgery ASAP knowing that I’d have a bit of downtime and then slow build back to form. I was able to maintain general fitness right up till the scheduled surgery date.

Thanks to private insurance the surgery itself was an amazing easy process and my doctor was amazing. We schedule the surgery they day I got back from a trip to the USA for work. Literally….. off a red-eye at Heathrow and into the Hospital. I was a sight. That was Tuesday, February 19th. Not knowing most people take two weeks off of work for this thing I went to work the next day. I was slow moving to say the least but it i’d go nuts sitting around the house. I took a walk a few days later and Carly forbade me to get on my bike…. for a week. On the 28th I started doing some easy rides and slowly worked into some easy runs. I got in the pool for the first time on March 17th, nearly a month later. The week of March 18th was my first week ‘back’ in building fitness. I had a mountain to climb in the ten weeks to prepare for Roth.

During the down time it was tough to see instagram filled with everyone out on the spring training camps and gearing up for earlier season racing as my fitness plummeted. But I filled the time trying to ‘think’ about some of the aspects of racing I don’t usually get to ponder and to consider a few of my gear choices.

I knew I was in capable hands and that my fitness would return and it was better to take the time now and make a proper recover and gains than risk greater damage. I slowly got back into my standard routine of cycling to work, running and eventually swimming. I had the odd sting or stretch but overall the recovery went very well. The rest was also good mentally, I knew that the summer was going to be long and that I had two very big races on my calendar that I needed to stay ‘checked into’ I was able to spend some time thinking about my racing, things that were important to me and places I wanted to develop. I didn’t pull everything I thought about into my training or racing but it was good to think about some of these things, research, listen to what others had to say and spend my time preparing and know why I was (or wasnt).

Below you can see my fitness and training (gains) from early Feb through to the race.

Feb 15th. The low point.

Race Day.

Training Volume to get to Challenge Roth

Average training hours during build. (does not count commuting)

Average (and max) TSS during build. (does not count commuting). The spike at the end is the race.

This doesn’t take account an average of 39 miles (3 hours) a week of commuting. A complete week of commuting would be 75 (5 hours) but that sometimes doesn’t happen with other work or professional commitments. I don’t count the cycling as part of ‘training’ but it doest factor into general recovery or how I’m feeling in terms of energy level. The commute is also good for bike handling skills and distressing at the end of the day.

Trips taken… work and pleasure

I fly back to the USA about every eight to ten weeks so I was able to put my next trip off till mid-april which allowed me to get into a good rythm with training before the next disruption. I made a bit of a weekend out of it and and saw some family on the weekend after which was a nice way to end the (short) trip. My parents live in rural NH so there was ample time (and space) to get a few runs under my belt.

Live Free or Die.

May was quite but June saw us traveling to the states for two full weeks for two weddings and my sisters graduation. I took the bike over and used the time to get in some long rides up into the white mountains and around Maine as well as open water swims in Sebago. We planned to take a week of ‘work’ and then a week of holiday so it was the first week that I was most concerned with continuing the gains where once I was on ‘holiday’ it would be slightly easier to find the time.

Carly’s mom organized this mural in Maine and the ‘sister’ mural in Iraq. Both painted with the assistance of young kids to show there is more that unites than divides us.

However, it was not an easy ask as we had a full slate of friends and family to see during the week. There was a fair bit of running around the eastern seaboard seeing friends and family but all totally worth it.

At the end of the weeks I had been able to put in a couple of quality longer bike and run efforts and got to race week at very nearly the same ‘fitness’ that I had with Barcelona. That summer played out much differently with more racing including London Marathon and 70.3 WC’s so the fitness was much deeper then but I was happy with how fast I was able to get my body ready.

Roth itself….

As soon as I entered I held a spot at a hotel in Nuremberg and began looking for an Airbnb closer to the race start. I knew that many stayed in Nuremberg so it wasn’t ‘bad’ but staying in Roth or Hipolstien was far better. Luckily enough, after much checking I snagged a great place in Hipolstien next to the train station and was able to cancel the hotel. As a whole house it had more than enough space for Carly and I to enjoy the weekend and the race atmosphere and made it very easy to get to/from Roth on the train for briefings and to/from the race finish.

Carly and I flew into Munich Thursday evening and after a quick car rental pickup were shooting north very, very, quickly on the Autobahn to Roth. We stopped for a quick bite to eat that evening on our way up and crashed once we got in. Friday morning I woke and walked down to the swim start for a short swim in the canal during the allocated trial time. Afterwards, Carly and I met up for a food shop and I assembled my bike. Once assembled I was out for a ride to test everything out and short run to get the legs moving. During the ride I went to check-in and crossed that off the list. The check-in process on Friday mid day was very easy and I was in/out in ten minutes. Very well managed.

I spent the remainder of the day Friday and Saturday preparing my gear and setting up the my prototype hydration bladder for the bike (more on this later). Once prepped it was a decent amount of relaxing and just enjoying ourselves around the house and small town.

Beer!

and sausage!

Saturday I had a quick ride and run followed by dropping my bike off at T1. The race also requires you drop off the run bag so that it can be transported to T2. I had scored an amazing rack spot right at the end of a row and next to the pro’s so my run out of T1 was very easy and no searching for my bike!

Dimonds get the best settings.

Saturday was very hot so we spent the rest of the day relaxing around the house trying to avoid getting dehydrated. I spent a bit of time prepping my bottles for the next day and double checking everything I could.

Get in my belly!

Race day….

Up at 4:30, had a Honey stinger wafer and banana and some PH. Out the door by just before 5 am to walk to T1. Got to T1 as a rain started but before the majority of crowds so was able to get easy access to bathrooms and sort the bike quickly and drop off the bike bag. I spent a few minutes chilling under a tree with Carly trying to avoid the rain but soon enough it was time to dawn the wetsuit and get this party started. I felt fueled, hydrated and ready.

I made my way back into T1 and over to the starting pen. As I had indicated a Sub 9:00 hour goal I was placed into a distinct starting group just after the pro men and women start. I was a bit psyched (nervous) about this as it would leave the roads a bit more clear for the first loop of the bike and make it a bit easier to pace and see where I was for the race in terms of place.

Swim

Washing machine.

I started at about the middle of the starting line 2-3 people back from the front. I was terrified that I’d get kicked in/around my incision during the swim so my primary goal was to make it through the swim unharmed. Once the cannon fired it was an instant washing machine. Definitely the most hectic swim start I’ve ever participated in and given that all the people there were quick it continued on for a while. I have no illusions of fast swimming to tried to just stick to my race and my pace and get into a good rhythm. Being in a canal the swim is calm and course simple. Down with the current and then back against with a quick out and back the other way just before the finish. I was consciously ‘pushing’ but not killing myself. I know that sometimes i allow my mind to wander when swimming so I kept checking in to keep focus and maintain pace. I wanted to get a sub 60 swim and thought that with the ‘easier’ course versus the rough seas on Barcelona it would be doable.

Just. start. running.

On exit I glanced at my watch 60:41… fuck.. pretty much the exact same time as Barcelona. Not a bad time by any measure but I had been hoping (expecting) a slightly quicker swim. Oh well, no time to dwell on it and right into T1. The volunteers are amazing and had my gear dumped and sorted quickly. Socks and number on and out to the bike. I momentarily grabbed my bike and started running before I realized I didn’t have my helmet on which was on the bars. Big no no…. stopped and helmet on before any harm done (officials saw).

ignore the time. next job.

Swim – 60:41 – 251st OA

Out to the start line and on the bike…

Bike

I wanted to give a solid effort on the bike here and shave time off the 4:49 from Barcelona. The course is rolling but giving the amazing road surfaces you always have the ability to move fast.

The bike course is stunning and it passes through some lovely german countryside and towns. There are people lining the entire course cheering which makes the atmosphere even better. Every hill you’re treated with cheering fans on both sides.

With the prototype bladder my goal was to take in the just under 2 liters in the bike as well as two (and a half) bottles on the bike for a mix of fluids and fuel. I’d supplement this with half a honey stinger wafer every 30 minutes or so for some ‘real’ calories.

The bladder worked amazing well and it was great to be able to take small swigs while in aero position or whenever desired. I supplemented that with bottles when it started to run dry or I wanted to larger draw of fluid. Overall it worked really well and I was able to move over and ignore all the aid stations. I don’t think this really saved me any time but it certainly goes to a level of confidence that I can have everything I need for a full distance race right on my bike and not be beholden to the aid stations and be carrying it in a very aero manner (inside the bike). Certainly if it had been hotter (or I had lost a bottle) I would have taken water or other from the stations. I’ll continue to refine my fueling mix and the bladder itself to maximize the volume and make sure I’m getting the type of energy I need during the bike.

The highlight of the bike was easily Solar Hill. Rolling through Hipolstien you round a small corner and there is just a mass of people in front of you. They’re screaming and making noise and right in your face. Its hard not to push up the hill and takes a fair amount to ride the hill ‘like a triathlete’. I clocked through the second loop at around 2:20ish and felt happy with the pace though wanted to be a bit quicker.

The second loop I kept on the gas and took a bit of solice in that I saw two Freespeed athletes come up to me about halfway through the second lap. I rode with them for a good portion of the remainder of the race and felt it was a good indicator that I was moving along well and where I sat in the overall leaderboard.

I did over cook one decent through a small town and had to bunny hop the bike up on the curb at about 30 mph and then back off to keep from hitting the shoulder. I scared a good portion of the crowd who must have thought I was a gonner… also got my heart going…. really didn’t want to be ‘that American’ who couldn’t keep it right side up.

Bike 4:46 – 82nd OA

Marathon…

Rolling into T2 I saw a lot of bags still on the ground around my number so knew I was in ‘decent’ position but had some work ahead of me. A very quick transition saw my shoes and PH hat on and I was out the door. I think I had the 9th fastest T2 of the day…

I had a goal of wanting to run sub 3 for the marathon and knew the splits I needed to run to achieve that. I started out feeling strong and set off a bit under that pace hoping to build a buffer. The course brings you first through a bit of town before putting you on two out-n-backs along the canal.

Starting the first I saw Carly which put a bit of pep in my step and I was feeling good. I knew my swim was solid and I had bike taken some time off my bike so I was in good position. Running a sub 3 marathon would really put me across the line with a decent finishing time. I saw the pro women coming back towards me on the first out and back and started to see a number of the fast AG’s as well so knew I wasn’t too far off the lead guys.

I was quickly running with another racer and after a chat realized he to was looking to run about that time so we linked up for the next few miles. After a few aid stations though he dropped back and I continued on at pace. As I passed Carly the second time to start the (longer) out and back to the north of the canal the wind picked up and the sun came out. It started to heat up a bit and my body started to feel tired. Over the next few miles my mind went from ‘sub 3’ to I need to make sub 9 overall. My legs really started to weight and at each aid station I started to go for the coke and fruit. Going for that stuff before mile ten was much earlier in the race than I usually begin going for that sort of thing.

By the time I turned back around and was heading off the canal for Roth I was feeling wrecked. I saw Carly and indicated no joy and tried to get my head into the game. ‘Common man, you’re more than halfway done… suck it up’. The nice bit was that running through town there was way more fans and support which kept the spirits up. It was a bit easier to push and find that energy reserve to keep moving. That said, this was, personally, a very, very rough run. I really felt like throwing in the towel and calling it a day. I felt slow, my legs were like limp sausages. After a couple hours of pushing my body to keep going my mind was also starting to throw in the towel. Failure creeped in and took hold.

But I kept on pushing forward. ‘Just keep moving’ I told myself. If I kept going I would finish, and finishing at the time I would, even if outside my goal is an accomplishment many spend an entire career trying to achieve. Don’t to that dishonor by throwing in the towel now. Keep going.

Hurting. Hard.

By the time I made it to the turn around pond with three miles left I knew I’d finish the race and gave it one last go for the downhill miles back to Roth. Back into the crowds I found the last bit of reserve and pushed through the town and into the finish stadium. It was a pretty epic finish scenario with the announcers and crowd in the stands and an experience I’ll not forget.

Don’t trip now.

Run – 3:07 – 57th OA

I crossed the line exhausted but finished. I knew I hadn’t made my place or time goal I had wanted but it was a quality race effort in an amazing venue. I can’t be mad with the performance. Into the recovery tent I went over to the timing services to see how I placed. 8:57… I was amazed, I had (somehow) bested my Barcelona time by a minute and slid in under the 9 hour mark. Given my training leading up to the race this was a great time and an affirmation of my underlying fitness.

The only hit on this race was the post race food. For the last few miles all I could think about was getting some good german sausages once finishing. The smell of fans cooking (and eating) them was thick the last miles. Certainly, I thought, this to would await for me at the finish. However I was disappointed on finish and the food options were rather lack luster. They were well stocked with the offerings they did have and there were some nice options but just not what I (or my body) had in mind at that moment. So after downing a few chocolate milks and pastries I left the tent to find Carly. On finding me she promptly fixed the problem and supplied currywurst and beer which instantly made me feel better. We chilled for a little while and then, with not much more reason to hang around left to find the bus replacement back to Hipolstein. After a short wait and bus ride I was home and showered. We went into the little town and had a quality dinner (avoiding the chaos of Roth) and relaxed with some beers.

At around 8pm we jumped in the car and went back to T2 to pick up my bike and gear. After which we found a place to ditch the car and went to the finishing stadium to cheer on the late finishers and watch the fireworks. It was really something to watch the racers who had been out there for 13/14/15 hours come across the line and receive their medal. I cant imagine being out there and racing for that long… The mental toll (outside of the obvious physical effort) is mind blowing. The fireworks at the end of the evening were the perfect ending to the day and it was nice to get some fireworks in over the 4th of July weekend!

The race provided a number of valuable experiences and I was able to take away some great lessons from both the prep and overall experience.

Good:

2nd Full distance race, 2nd sub 9 hour finish (and on 11.5 hours a week of training)

500 euro back for finishing sub 9 hours

fitness coming back after the surgery with no post race issues

hydration bladder prototype worked well

overall weekend was much more ‘low stress’ than my first full race and gave me a good level of confidence for the distance in Kona

Bad

swim not as expected, if only by a minute or two

biked uneven (in retrospect) and paid the price on the run

run sucked, but with mid 20 mile weeks averaging leading up it is not surprising that a sub 3 marathon didn’t happen

Please let me know if there is anything about the race (or training) you’d like to know or for me to expand on. I’m happy to share my experience and help others have a great day out at Roth. Its an amazing event!

Challenge Roth – 2019 was originally published on Rogers Racing

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