#Tennessee State Parks Conservancy

[brewscoop]

Discover the remarkable story behind Tennessee Brew Works' dedication to local communities and Tennessee State Parks. From their hit State Park Blonde Ale to a new variety pack, see how they blend craft beer with a cause. Learn about their inspiring contributions and find out how you can support the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy. Cheers to making a difference!

[shapeshiftersvt]

Cryptid Collection Spotlight: The Squonk

We're going to be spending this week infodumping about the six cryptids we chose to feature in our Cryptid Collection! We'll be posting about the lore and origins, our thoughts, experiences, and relationships with all of these cryptids, and we encourage folks to share their own!

Today we're talking about the most #relatable cryptid, the Squonk.

👣The Cryptid Collection 🗺️Cryptid Travel Posters 👥Cryptid Binders & Sportsbras 🧵Cryptid fabric designs

Much like the Jackalope that we spotlighted yesterday, the Squonk is a creature from tall tales of the previous centuries.

Descriptions of the Squonk nearly all originate from the same source. Fearsome Creatures of the Lumberwoods was a 1910 collaboration between William Thomas Cox, Minnesota's first State Forester and Commissioner of conservation, who wrote the text; Coert du Bois, US Consul and forester, who drew the illustrations; and George Bishop Sudworth, Chief Dendrologist of the Forest Service, who created the Latin classifications. In the introduction, Cox claims that the fantastical field guide was born out of a desire to preserve some of the tall tales invented by lumberjacks and the stories they told about them around campfires "to regale newcomers and frighten people unfamiliar with the woods". The guide details twenty creatures from heavily wooded regions all over the US. There on page 31, between the Hodag of Wisconsin and Minnesota, and the Whirling Whimpus of Tennessee, lies our friend, the Squonk.

Later texts inspired by Fearsome Creatures expanded on the lore, describing, among other things, a mass migration from its original widespread territory that resulted in the evolution of webbed toes, but only on its left feet; wax and hair-covered ears; crooked yellow tusks; and asexual reproduction through cell division. But Cox's original, much more straightforward description, seems to have truly stood the test of time.

The Squonk, like many regional cryptids, has a fairly small territory, being limited to the hemlock forests of northern Pennsylvania. Cox claims that those familiar with the Squonk describe it as being "the most morbid of beasts". These days, we might interpret that to mean a fearsome creature that lurks in the darkest, thickest part of the woods, hunting unsuspecting lumberjacks who unknowingly wander into its territory and toying with them the way a cat toys with a mouse. Quite the contrary, though, the Squonk is described as morbid because of its constant weeping, the source of which is the skin which hangs off of it in wrinkles as if it were a piece of much too large clothing, and its many warts and moles.

While the Squonk is most active during the twilight and dusk hours, it can also be found traveling at night. In fact, Cox relates that "frosty moonlight nights" are the best conditions for Squonk hunters, as it doesn't like to move much at all on those nights, and its tears flow more slowly. Why might slowly flowing tears be an advantage, especially when the trail those tears leave behind in the Squonk's wake are an easy way for hunters to track it? Why, because the more scared the Squonk is, the more tears it cries, and likely it is to be completely dissolved by those tears.

In fact, this curious characteristic is described in the only encounter related by Cox:

Mr. J. P. Wentling, formerly of Pennsylvania, but now at St. Anthony Park, Minnesota, had a disappointing experience with a Squonk near Mont Alto. He made a clever capture by mimicking the Squonk and inducing it to hop into a sack, in which he was carrying it home, when suddenly the burden lightened and the weeping ceased. Wentling unslung the sack and looked in. There was nothing by tears and bubbles.

It's probably fairly obvious why an inherently queer company selling garments intended to relieve body dysphoria would relate to a creature like the Squonk, which is so uncomfortable in its own skin that it simply can't stop crying. But we're certainly not the first to feel empathy and kinship with the Squonk. In fact 2024 marks the second annual Squonkapalooza in Johnstown, PA, hoping to "turn those frowns upside down. Spreading the love of the Squonk might cheer them up."

Which is fair! I think that if most of us discovered a festival organized and attended out of pure love and empathy for us we'd probably feel a little bit better about ourselves.

[travelella]

Great Egret - Reelfoot Lake State Park Visitor Center, Tennessee 21, Tiptonville, Tennessee, USA

Joshua J. Cotten

Scientific name: Ardea alba

Mass: 1.5 – 3.3 lbs (Adult)

Wingspan: 4.3 – 5.6 ft. (Adult)

Conservation status: Least Concern 

Colors: white 

Class: Aves

Domain: Eukaryota

The great egret, also known as the common egret, large egret, or great white egret or great white heron, is a large, widely distributed egret. The four subspecies are found in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and southern Europe. Recently it is also spreading to more northern areas of Europe.

[fromkenari]

The 2016 Great Smoky Mountains wildfires claimed at least 14 lives, and injured 190 people. The fires impacted the towns of Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, both near Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The fires are considered one of the largest natural disasters in Tennessee history.

The 2018 California wildfires had a total of 103 confirmed fatalities. The Camp Fire, which occurred in Paradise, California, killed 85 people and destroyed more than 18,000 buildings. The Camp Fire was the costliest disaster worldwide in 2018. It was also the deadliest and most destructive wildfire in California's history.

The Australian bushfires of 2019-2020 directly killed 33 people and over one billion native animals. The fires also caused 417 human deaths due to smoke inhalation. The fires burned in six states across six months, affecting 80% of the Australian population.

In 2020, 33 people died in California wildfires that burned 4.2 million acres, a state record. This was the third deadliest year for California wildfires since 2013. 

Amid the bleakness of 2020, scientists in Brazil concluded a particularly grim conservation study - attempting to count the animals killed by huge wildfires in the Pantanal wetlands. They estimate that as many as 17 million vertebrates - including reptiles, birds and primates - died. Wildfires burned between January and November, destroying 30% of the world's largest tropical wetland.

Five people have died from wildfires in Canada in 2023. The wildfires have scorched at least 11 million hectares, or over 27.1 million acres, of land across Canada this year.

Meanwhile, in Maui, wildfires started on August 8th, 2023 (Now August 15th, 2023).

The death toll from the wildfires on the Hawaiian island of Maui is at least 101 people. The wildfires destroyed the historic town of Lahaina and killed at least 99 people, making it the worst natural disaster in state history and the deadliest U.S. wildfire in over a century. Officials warn that the death toll is likely to rise. Many people remain missing.

None of this is okay, and I'm not trying to compare trauma, but the fact that this disaster is happening right now and I have seen a total of 2 posts about it on my dash is disheartening, to say the least.

P.S. Spread the word. Do not ignore Maui.

[gunlovingpacifist]

Now I have to block you because people on the right celebrate ignorance and Mooch of blue states. Them gunz ain't gonna feed your family......

I have posed this question a few times and never get a response

.... 🤔

Here is why I am a liberal...

Why are you a Republican?

The 40-hour work week, and thus, weekends!

Overtime pay and minimum wage.

Paid Vacations.

Women’s Voting Rights

The Civil Rights Act of 1964

The right of people of all colors to use schools and facilities.

Public schools.

Public libraries

Public transportation

Public universities

Public broadcasting

Public police and fire departments

Worker’s rights

Labor safety and fairness laws

*Nixon gave us the EPA

Child-labor laws.

The right to unionize

Health care benefits

National Parks, Monuments, and Forests, “America’s Best Idea”

Interstate Highway System (Eisenhower (R) and Al Gore Sr. (D)

Safe food and drugs (via the FDA)

Social Security

NASA

The Moon Landing and other space exploration

Satellites

The Office of Congressional Ethics.

The Internet

National Weather Service

Product Labeling/Truth in Advertising Laws

Rural Electrification/Tennessee Valley Authority

Bank Deposit Insurance

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Consumer Product Safety Commission

Consumer Financial Protection Bureau

Rights of the disabled (via Americans With Disabilities Act)

Family and Medical Leave Act

Clean air and water (Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, the Environmental Protection Agency).

Civilian Conservation Corps

Panama Canal

Hoover Dam

The Federal Reserve

Medicare/Medicaid

The United States Military

The FBI

The CIA

Peace between Israel and Egypt

Peace between Israel and Jordan

Veterans Medical Care

Federal Housing Administration

Extending Voting Rights to 18 year olds

Freedom of Speech

Freedom of Religion/Separation of Church and State

Right to Due Process

Freedom of The Press

Right to Organize and Protest

Pell Grants and other financial aid to students

Federal Aviation Administration/Airline safety regulations

The end of slavery in the USA (The Emancipation Proclamation, The 13th Amendment)

Unemployment benefits

Smithsonian Institute

Americorps

Mandatory Food Labeling

Peace Corps

United Nations

World Health Organization

The Lincoln Tunnel

Sulfur emissions cap and trade to eliminate acid rain

Earned Income Tax Credit

The banning of lead in consumer products

National Institute of Health

Garbage pickup/clean streets

Banning of CFCs.

LGBT rights

Expanded voting access via polling places

Erie Canal

Bailout — and thus continued existence — of the American Auto Industry

Lily Ledbetter Fair Pay Act

Established the basis for Universal Human Rights by writing the Declaration of Independence

Miranda Rights

Banning of torture

The right to a proper defense in court

An independent judiciary

The right to vote

Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act

Fair, open, and honest elections

The founding of The United States of America

The defeat of the Nazis and victory in World War II

Paramedics

Woman’s Right to Choose

The Civil Rights Movement

National Science Foundation

Vehicle Safety Standards

NATO

The income tax and power to tax in general, which have been used to pay for much of this list.

911 Emergency system

Tsunami, hurricane, tornado, and earthquake warning systems

The Freedom of Information Act

Water Treatment Centers and sewage systems

The Meat Inspection Act

The Pure Food And Drug Act

The Bretton Woods system

International Monetary Fund

SEC, which regulates Wall Street (weaked by conservatives)

National Endowment for the Arts

Campaign finance laws (weaked by conservatives)

Federal Crop Insurance

United States Housing Authority

School Lunch Act

Mental Retardation Facilities and Community Mental Health Centers Construction Act

Vaccination Assistance Act

The creation of counterinsurgency forces such as the Navy Seals and Green Berets.

Voting Rights Act, which ended poll taxes, literacy tests, and other voter qualification tests (weaked by conservatives)

The Brady Bill (5-day wait on handgun purchases for background checks)

Lobbying Disclosure Act

"Motor-Voter" Act

Civil Rights Act of 1968

Job Corps

Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965

Teacher Corps

Endangered Species Preservation Act of 1966

National Trails System Act of 1968

U.S. Postal Service

Modern Civilization

BIDEN WINS:

• Inflation Reduction Act

• CHIPS & Science Act

• PACT Act for veterans

• First major gun safety legislation in decades

• Took out the leader of al Qaeda

• Historic job growth (+12.8 million)

• Historically low unemployment

• Expanded the NATO alliance

• American Rescue Plan led to fastest jobs recovery in history

• Confirmation of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson

• Rallied our allies in support of Ukraine

•Once-in-a-generation infrastructure investments

• Student loan forgiveness

• Rural broadband investment

In not a republican. I lean right on one issue. The second amendment. Why's that hard for leftists to comprehend

[scottdamron1]

Scott Damron  A Natural Adventure Lover from Georgia

Nestled in the heart of the southeastern United States, Georgia is a state blessed with diverse landscapes, ranging from the rugged peaks of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the serene coastal plains. For those with an adventurous spirit, Georgia offers a playground of natural wonders waiting to be explored. Among these adventurers is Scott Damron, a Georgia native whose passion for the great outdoors has led him to become a prominent figure in the adventure community. Damron's love for nature and adventure has shaped his life in profound ways, inspiring others to embrace the beauty and challenges of the natural world.

Early Life and Connection to Nature

Scott Damron's connection to nature began at an early age. Growing up in Georgia, he was surrounded by the state's lush forests, winding rivers, and abundant wildlife. From family camping trips in the North Georgia mountains to fishing excursions along the Chattahoochee River, Damron's childhood was filled with outdoor experiences that fostered his deep appreciation for nature. These formative years instilled in him a sense of wonder and respect for the environment, laying the foundation for his lifelong love of adventure.

As he grew older, Damron's passion for outdoor activities expanded. He became an avid hiker, exploring the many trails that crisscross Georgia's diverse landscapes. Whether it was trekking through the dense forests of the Appalachian Trail or scaling the rocky cliffs of Tallulah Gorge, Damron sought out new challenges and opportunities to connect with nature. His adventures were not just about physical exertion; they were about immersing himself in the beauty and tranquility of the natural world.

The Call of the Wild

For Scott Damron, the call of the wild was irresistible. As a young adult, he began to seek out more extreme and remote adventures. His travels took him beyond Georgia's borders to some of the most rugged and untamed wilderness areas in the United States. From the towering peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the vast deserts of the American Southwest, Damron pushed himself to new limits, testing his skills and endurance in some of the most challenging environments.

One of Damron's most memorable adventures was a solo backpacking trip through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This iconic national park, straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, is known for its mist-covered mountains, dense forests, and diverse wildlife. Damron spent several days navigating the park's remote backcountry trails, relying on his wits and survival skills to overcome the challenges of the rugged terrain. The experience was a profound one, deepening his connection to nature and solidifying his belief in the transformative power of adventure.

Inspiring Others to Explore

Scott Damron's adventures are not just personal quests; they are also opportunities to inspire others to explore the natural world. Over the years, he has become a vocal advocate for outdoor recreation and conservation. He believes that spending time in nature is essential for physical and mental well-being and that everyone should have the opportunity to experience the beauty of the great outdoors.

To share his passion for adventure, Damron has documented many of his journeys through photography and writing. His stunning images of Georgia's landscapes, as well as those from his travels across the country, capture the awe-inspiring beauty of nature and encourage others to seek out their own adventures. Through social media and outdoor enthusiast groups, Damron connects with a community of like-minded individuals who share his love for the outdoors. His stories and images serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving natural spaces for future generations.

In addition to his personal adventures, Damron is also involved in local conservation efforts. He volunteers with organizations dedicated to protecting Georgia's natural resources and wildlife. Whether it's participating in trail maintenance projects, advocating for responsible land use, or supporting initiatives to combat climate change, Damron is committed to ensuring that Georgia's natural beauty remains intact for future adventurers to enjoy.

Balancing Adventure with Family Life

While Scott Damron's adventures have taken him to some of the most remote corners of the United States, he remains deeply rooted in his home state of Georgia. He has found a way to balance his passion for adventure with his responsibilities as a husband and father. Damron often includes his family in his outdoor pursuits, introducing his children to the joys of hiking, camping, and exploring the natural world.

Family trips to Georgia's state parks and national forests have become a cherished tradition for the Damron family. Together, they have explored iconic sites such as Amicalola Falls, Stone Mountain, and Cumberland Island. These shared experiences have not only strengthened their bond as a family but have also instilled a love for nature in the next generation.

Scott Damron's journey as a natural adventure lover is a testament to the power of the great outdoors to inspire, challenge, and transform. From the rolling hills of Georgia to the rugged mountains of the West, Damron's adventures have shaped his life in profound ways. His passion for nature, commitment to conservation, and dedication to inspiring others make him a true ambassador for the outdoor community. As he continues to explore new landscapes and push the boundaries of his own limits, Scott Damron remains a shining example of what it means to be a natural adventure lover.

[starstruckavenuewombat]

Cccfresszzzzsddee.cvghhfdd.pfgtyy.bbbhuunkk conservatory on conservations on conservatories paids bayous on stilts houseings paids laids paid laid stay paid parked paid paid phones booths Bartlett Park Bartlett Tennessee earth paid on Shelby farms Park Cordova Tennessee Memphis Tennessee on paid earth paid laid stay paid parked paid Hillsborough river state park thonatassasa Florida earth paid stay paid parked paid plant city Florida earth paid stay paid parked paid meeman Shelby forests State Park Tennessee on paid laids laid campgrounds Tennessee and Arkansas and Florida and Mississippi and Alabama and Georgia earth paid laid laids stay paid parked paid stay paid parked paid laid stay paid parked paid must return to Candace Marie Hughes and earth and paid. On. On. Paid. Mail KIY KEY card dh to Candace Marie Hughes and earth and paid. On. Paid. VVoiced on paid on. On. Paid. Stay. Paid. Parked. Paid.

[bbumtravel]

An iconic scenic road of cultural significance

Blue Ridge refers to the Blue Ridge Mountains and the associated region in the eastern United States, known for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor recreational opportunities. Here's a detailed introduction to the Blue Ridge region:

Geography and Natural Features

The Blue Ridge region encompasses a portion of the larger Appalachian Mountain range, running primarily through the states of Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Georgia. Key geographic features include:

Blue Ridge Mountains: Characterized by their bluish tint when seen from a distance due to isoprene released into the atmosphere by the trees, these mountains offer scenic vistas, rugged terrain, and diverse ecosystems.

Rivers and Valleys: The region is crisscrossed by numerous rivers and streams, including the James River, New River, and Shenandoah River, which flow through picturesque valleys and gorges.

National Forests and Parks: Blue Ridge is home to several national forests and parks, such as Shenandoah National Park, Pisgah National Forest, and Great Smoky Mountains National Park, preserving vast tracts of wilderness and biodiversity.

History and Culture

The Blue Ridge region has a rich cultural history influenced by Native American tribes, European settlers, and African American communities. Key aspects of its cultural heritage include:

Colonial Settlements: Early European settlers established farms, towns, and trading posts in the valleys and foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Appalachian Folk Culture: The region is known for its distinctive Appalachian folk music, crafts, storytelling traditions, and culinary specialties like country ham and apple butter.

Historic Sites: Visitors can explore historic sites such as Thomas Jefferson's Monticello in Virginia, the Biltmore Estate in North Carolina, and Civil War battlefields like Gettysburg and Antietam.

Outdoor Recreation

The Blue Ridge region offers abundant opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and enjoy nature:

Hiking and Backpacking: Trails like the Appalachian Trail and Blue Ridge Parkway offer scenic hikes through forests, along ridges, and to panoramic overlooks.

Fishing and Water Sports: Rivers and lakes in the region provide excellent fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and tubing experiences.

Cycling and Scenic Drives: The Blue Ridge Parkway and other scenic byways offer breathtaking views and routes for cyclists and motorists alike.

Economy and Tourism

Tourism is a significant economic driver in the Blue Ridge region, attracting visitors with its natural beauty, cultural attractions, and outdoor activities. Local economies also rely on agriculture, forestry, and manufacturing industries.

Conservation and Sustainability

Efforts are ongoing to conserve and protect the natural resources and scenic landscapes of the Blue Ridge region. Initiatives focus on sustainable forestry practices, watershed protection, and wildlife conservation.

Conclusion

The Blue Ridge region is a diverse and vibrant area celebrated for its natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Whether exploring historic sites, hiking mountain trails, or enjoying scenic drives, visitors to the Blue Ridge are immersed in the beauty and charm of one of America's most beloved mountain ranges.

[americanstripingcommercialcoatin]

Parking Lot Maintenance Company Nashville

Pristine Pavement: Perks Of Hiring Professional Parking Lot Maintenance Services

Maintaining a parking lot might not sound like the most glamorous task, but it's essential for businesses and property owners alike. A well-maintained parking lot enhances the overall aesthetics of a property and ensures safety for visitors and customers. 

While some may attempt to handle maintenance tasks themselves, there are numerous benefits to hiring a professional parking lot maintenance company Nashville. Let's take a closer look at why it's a smart choice.

Expertise And Experience

One of the primary advantages of hiring professional parking lot maintenance services is the expertise and experience they bring to the table. 

These professionals are trained in the intricacies of pavement maintenance, from sealing cracks to applying fresh seal coating. 

Their experience allows them to identify issues early on and implement effective solutions, ultimately extending the lifespan of your parking lot.

Quality Materials And Equipment

Professional parking lot maintenance companies have access to high-quality materials and state-of-the-art equipment that may not be readily available to the average person. 

These professionals utilize the best resources to ensure top-notch results, from industrial-grade sealants to advanced pavement repair tools. 

Investing in quality materials and equipment can deliver superior outcomes that stand the test of time.

Cost-Effectiveness

While some may view hiring professional services as an added expense, it can actually be more cost-effective in the long run. Professional maintenance helps prevent minor issues from escalating into costly repairs down the line. 

By addressing problems early on and implementing preventive measures, you can avoid the hefty price tag associated with extensive pavement damage. 

Additionally, well-maintained parking lots are less likely to encounter liability issues stemming from accidents or injuries.

Time Savings

Maintaining a parking lot requires time and effort, resources that could be better allocated elsewhere, especially for busy business owners. 

Free up valuable time to focus on core business activities by outsourcing these tasks to professionals.Professional maintenance crews work efficiently and diligently, minimizing disruption to your daily operations while ensuring timely completion of the job.

Enhanced Curb Appeal

Your property's overall curb appeal is enhanced by a well-maintained parking lot.It creates a positive first impression for visitors and customers, conveying professionalism and attention to detail. 

With regular maintenance, you can keep your parking lot looking clean, inviting, and well-kept, enhancing the overall aesthetics of your property.

Environmental Responsibility

Professional parking lot maintenance services often prioritize eco-friendly practices and products. From using environmentally friendly sealants to implementing water conservation techniques, these companies strive to minimize their environmental footprint. 

By opting for professional services, you can contribute to sustainability efforts while maintaining a pristine parking lot.

Peace Of Mind

Perhaps most importantly, hiring professional parking lot maintenance services provides peace of mind. You can rest assured knowing that your parking lot is in capable hands, with experts dedicated to keeping it in optimal condition. 

From routine inspections to proactive maintenance, these professionals take the guesswork out of pavement care, allowing you to focus on other aspects of property management.

Conclusion

While it may be tempting to handle parking lot maintenance tasks independently, there are undeniable benefits to enlisting the help of professionals. 

From expertise and experience to cost-effectiveness and peace of mind, professional maintenance services offer a comprehensive solution for keeping your parking lot pristine and well-maintained. 

Investing in professional maintenance is not just about preserving pavement; it's about safeguarding your property and ensuring a positive experience for all who visit.

[svalleynow]

Tennesseans Invited to Donate in State Parks Competition

Tennessee State Parks, in partnership with the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy, will hold the annual My TN State Park fundraiser in April. During this fundraiser, supporters will “vote” for their favorite parks through contributions. The fundraiser runs through April 30, 2024. Each park retains the funds donated to it, and the contributions will go toward projects identified by park staff.…

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 4.1 (after 1950)

1954 – United States President Dwight D. Eisenhower authorizes the creation of the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. 1955 – The EOKA rebellion against the British Empire begins in Cyprus, with the goal of unifying with Greece. 1960 – The TIROS-1 satellite transmits the first television picture from space. 1964 – The British Admiralty, War Office and Air Ministry are replaced by a unified Defence Council of the United Kingdom. 1969 – The Hawker Siddeley Harrier, the first operational fighter aircraft with Vertical/Short Takeoff and Landing capabilities, enters service with the Royal Air Force. 1970 – President Richard Nixon signs the Public Health Cigarette Smoking Act into law. 1970 – A Royal Air Maroc Sud Aviation Caravelle crashes near Berrechid, Morocco, killing 61. 1971 – Bangladesh Liberation War: The Pakistan Army massacre more than a thousand people in Keraniganj Upazila, Bangladesh. 1973 – Project Tiger, a tiger conservation project, is launched in the Jim Corbett National Park, India. 1974 – The Local Government Act 1972 of England and Wales comes into effect. 1976 – Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak found Apple Computer, Inc. 1979 – Iran becomes an Islamic republic by a 99% vote, officially overthrowing the Shah. 1984 – Singer Marvin Gaye is shot to death by his father in his home in Arlington Heights, Los Angeles, California. 1986 – Communist Party of Nepal (Mashal) cadres attack a number of police stations in Kathmandu, seeking to incite a popular rebellion. 1989 – Margaret Thatcher's new local government tax, the Community Charge (commonly known as the "poll tax"), is introduced in Scotland. 1993 – NASCAR racer Alan Kulwicki is killed in a plane crash near the Tri-Cities Regional Airport in Blountville, Tennessee. 1997 – Comet Hale–Bopp is seen passing at perihelion. 1999 – Nunavut is established as a Canadian territory carved out of the eastern part of the Northwest Territories. 2001 – An EP-3E United States Navy surveillance aircraft collides with a Chinese People's Liberation Army Shenyang J-8 fighter jet. The Chinese pilot ejected but is subsequently lost. The Navy crew makes an emergency landing in Hainan, China and is detained. 2001 – Former President of Federal Republic of Yugoslavia Slobodan Milošević surrenders to police special forces, to be tried on war crimes charges. 2001 – Same-sex marriage becomes legal in the Netherlands, the first contemporary country to allow it. 2004 – Google launches its Email service Gmail. 2006 – Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA) of the Government of the United Kingdom is enforced, but later merged into National Crime Agency on 7 October 2013. 2011 – After protests against the burning of the Quran turn violent, a mob attacks a United Nations compound in Mazar-i-Sharif, Afghanistan, resulting in the deaths of thirteen people, including eight foreign workers. 2016 – The 2016 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict begins along the Nagorno-Karabakh Line of Contact.

[tndidd]

New All-Terrain Wheelchairs Available at TN State Parks

It's time to hit the trails and soak up the gorgeous outdoors in Middle Tennessee! Commissioner Turner and his family joined Tennessee State Parks, the Tennessee State Parks Conservancy, and the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to support the new all-terrain wheelchairs available at Radnor Lake State Park. 

Check out the video on the DIDD Facebook page here.

The chairs are free to the public, but it's a good idea to contact the park first to make sure they're available. 

Kinsley had the chance to try one out for herself and hit the trails for the first time with her mom and dad. Safe to say that all three of them loved it! Be sure to check out the TN Department of Environment & Conservation's video with Commissioner Turner and his family below. 

Visitors can currently access the wheelchairs free of charge at: 

Radnor Lake State Park (Davidson County)

Tims Ford State Park (Franklin County)

Rocky Fork State Park - Flag Pond, TN (Unicoi County)

Henry Horton State Park (Marshall County)

Thank you to TN State Parks, the Conservancy, and TVA for taking this step to improve access to Tennessee's natural beauty! 

[writing--references]

Once a sleepy farming town, Huntsville gained national recognition during the Space Race of the 1960s and is now consistently among the fastest-growing metro areas in Alabama. 

In the past, the U.S. government relocated a team of German rocket scientists to the area and opened a NASA center that would design the Saturn V, the rocket that sent Apollo astronauts to the moon. Today, Huntsville residents pride themselves on being a nerdy bunch. The metro area has the most educated population in the state, and a large portion of the population works in engineering and defense thanks to the large presence of NASA and the U.S. Army's Redstone Arsenal.

Huntsville's city center has undergone a renaissance in recent years. An outbreak of new construction downtown means more shopping, dining and apartment options are available. Just west of downtown, a defunct cotton mill became a bustling arts center, and craft breweries, restaurants and an ax-throwing venue have sprung up in a renovated old middle school.

Space is at the center of Huntsville's identity. To get a better understanding of the region's ties to the Final Frontier, residents can spend a day touring the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, which documents the history of space exploration. The U.S. Space & Rocket Center is also home to every kid's bucket-list experience: Space Camp.

Huntsville has a number of other cultural attractions unrelated to aerospace. For example, the Alabama Constitution Hall Park offers a look at what life was like in Alabama in the 1800s, while the North Alabama Railroad Museum and the Historic Huntsville Depot highlight the history of train travel in north Alabama. Those interested in art should pay a visit to Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment, a renovated textile mill that is the largest privately owned arts center in the southern United States. The Mill houses artists working in a variety of media, features live music and theater, and serves as the city's unofficial avant-garde arts headquarters. The Huntsville Museum of Art also offers a wide range of pieces across a variety of permanent and traveling exhibits. The multipurpose Von Braun Center downtown hosts concerts, comedy tours and dance performances, as well as games for the city's minor league professional hockey team, the Huntsville Havoc.

Thanks to its high-tech sector, Huntsville has a significant international population, and the region's culinary scene reflects this diversity. Area restaurants offer everything from Vietnamese to German to Indian fare. More standard Southern fare, including barbecue joints and farm-to-table cafes, are also popular.

Because the climate is warm most of the year, outdoor events are plentiful. The downtown area hosts outdoor concerts, movies and food truck rallies throughout the year. Monte Sano State Park is a favorite with hikers and mountain bikers. Boaters and water sports enthusiasts head to the nearby Tennessee River for a day out on the water.

You'll need a car to get around Huntsville. The metro area has worked to become more walkable and bike-friendly, especially in downtown Huntsville, but for the most part, residents are accustomed to driving everywhere. Ride-sharing services Uber and Lyft are also available here.

There is a bus system in Huntsville proper, Orbit, that includes 10 routes. However, it's not the most convenient mode of transportation for the metro area's suburban communities.

The political climate in Huntsville, AL is leaning conservative. In Madison County, AL 44.8% of the people voted Democrat in the last presidential election, 52.8% voted for the Republican Party, and the remaining 2.4% voted Independent. Madison county voted Republican in every Presidential election since 2000. (source)

[thesecrettimes]

Long-held myth says Hurricane Andrew sparked Florida's Burmese python problem. Is it true?

On Aug. 4, hunters in southern Florida will begin a cull of Burmese pythons as part of an annual competition to try and keep the invasive snakes' population in check. Burmese pythons (Python bivittatus) are native to southeast Asia, where they slink through thick jungles, grasslands and swamps. But these snakes — which can grow to be more than 18 feet (5.5 meters) long — have also established an invasive population in southern Florida that has decimated local ecosystems, with the snakes devouring prey as large as deer and alligators. Researchers aren't sure exactly how the animals gained a foothold in the state, but one theory is that the invasive snakes got their start in 1992 when Hurricane Andrew destroyed a reptile breeding facility near Miami, setting Burmese pythons loose across the Sunshine State. It is thought Burmese pythons (Python bivittatus) began their invasion of Florida in the late 1970s. (Image credit: Rhona Wise/Getty Images) But many experts say this is likely an oversimplification of the pythons' origin story. In 1992, Andrew slammed into the Miami area as a Category 5 storm, quickly becoming one of the most destructive hurricanes in American history. More than 15 feet (4.5 m) of storm surge flooded the coast and over 10 inches (25 centimeters) of rain dropped in some areas, with wind gusts of about 167 mph (269 kph). Related: Gruesome video reveals the moment a 5-foot alligator corpse was cut from the gut of a dead python According to The New Yorker, a warehouse filled with reptiles in Homestead, Florida, just south of Miami, was destroyed during the storm — and one official told the magazine that he remembered seeing hundreds of Burmese pythons in that warehouse. When the storm destroyed the building, those pythons could have gotten loose in the swampy environs of southeast Florida. Many wild animals did get loose during Andrew's landfall, and some newspapers reported sightings of large snakes in the storm's aftermath. But individual Burmese pythons have reportedly been spotted in the Everglades since at least 1979, with unconfirmed reports throughout the 1980s, according to a 2023 report. The snakes were not commonly sighted in southern Florida until at least 1995. While that's three years after Andrew, the timing and geography of the python invasion don't fit with the storm theory, scientists say. From 1995 to 2000, 11 pythons were sighted or captured in the southwestern part of Everglades National Park — miles away from the destroyed reptile facility in Homestead. "When the population started to grow initially, in the 1990s, most of it was 20 miles away from that facility," Dan Simberloff, an ecologist at the University of Tennessee, told Live Science. It wasn't until after the turn of the millennium that the snakes routinely showed up in the Miami area, near where the warehouse once stood. Based on this geography and the population's growth rates, a 2011 study concluded that the simplest explanation for the Burmese python invasion is that a few individual snakes were released into the southern Everglades sometime before 1985, with the population growing slowly until the 1990s, before skyrocketing upward. Aerial view of Homestead, Florida, after Hurricane Andrew hit.  (Image credit: ClassicStock/GEtty Images) The 2023 report noted that a second, separate introduction of Burmese pythons may have occurred in southwest Florida, closer to Naples. "While some believe Hurricane Andrew in 1992 caused the python problem, Burmese pythons had been detected here prior to that hurricane, as early as 1979. Several introduction events likely occurred in south Florida," a spokesperson for the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission told Live Science via email. This doesn't necessarily mean that Hurricane Andrew didn't contribute to the snakes' spread, however — it is possible that some snakes escaped from the pet trade during the storm and joined the feral population, experts said. "If it was a multiple choice question as to how did Burmese pythons get into the south Florida ecosystem and (A) was 'Escaped Pet,' (B) was 'Intentionally Released,' and (C) was 'Meteorological Disturbances' — I would circle (D): 'All of the Above,'" Ian Bartoszek, an environmental scientist with the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, told Live Science. Simberloff said that over the past two decades, research has shown that many invasive species that were thought to be a result of a single introduction were actually introduced in their new habitats multiple times. This includes the brown anole (Anolis sagrei), another reptile invasive to Florida. Florida governor Ron DeSantis launching the 2021 Python Challenge, where members of the public hunt the invasive species for cash prizes.  (Image credit: Joe Raedle/Getty Images) About 17,000 Burmese pythons were imported to the United States between 1970 and 1995 for the pet trade — and with that many pythons coming in, it's entirely plausible that a few will be released by their owners. "People can get tired of having a huge snake," Simberloff said. Bartosek, who kept Burmese pythons as pets growing up in Florida, also noted that the snakes are "escape artists" — and it's possible that some pet snakes could have snuck out of homes and into the warm, prey-filled habitats of southern Florida. It is now mostly illegal to keep the species as a pet in the state. RELATED STORIES —Burmese pythons are helping rats take over Florida's Everglades — and that could help spread disease —Enormous Burmese python killed in Florida Everglades was about to lay 60 eggs —The biggest snake in the world (and 9 other giant serpents) The population of wild Burmese pythons in Florida is unknown, but estimates suggest there could be hundreds of thousands out there. Last year's Python Challenge saw 231 snakes removed from the Everglades, and while initiatives like this are helpful in controlling the population, eradication is currently out of the question. "Eradication of the entire population across the landscape is not possible with any existing tools, whether applied singly or in combination," the 2023 report said. Read the full article

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U.S. State Park Unveils New Trail Made of Illegally Dumped Tires

Officials from Tennessee State Parks, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT), and local leaders today cut the ribbon on a new hard-surface walking and biking trail in T.O. Fuller State Park that’s over 2.5 miles long—made from rubber crumbs derived from tires.

The tires had been illegally dumped in the area around the park, gathered by volunteers and local contractors, then transformed into crumbs by Patriot Tire Recycling in Bristol, the only facility in the state with the ability to recycle tires in such a way. It is one of the longest rubber-bearing trails in the U.S.

Once the tires were recycled into crumbs, the material was brought back to the park for construction of the trail.

The project, which began with collection in 2019, was funded by a Tire Environmental Act Program grant of $250,000, and near-equal amounts from other state department programs.

“This is a quintessential example of recycling in full circle, collecting dumped material then converting it into positive use,” said David Salyers, commissioner of TN Dept. of Environment and Conservation.

“It’s exactly the kind of responsible environmental activity Tennesseans can be proud of, where an area can be cleaned up then have people enjoy the benefits in a new way.”