#and it's a government building- not residential or commercial

[marzipanandminutiae]

still not over the absolutely braindead take that "if you say brutalism looks dystopian, you care more about your aesthetic than people having homes!!!!"

like

can't criticize Shein or you must want their workers to be unemployed

oh you don't like that restaurant? guess you want the people eating there to STARVE

fuck both roses AND bread; nutrient-dense gray EnergyCubes would keep you alive so wishing for a better sensory experience is basically capitalist bootlicking

(I agree that considering Soviet-era brutalist apartment buildings in the context of "shit we need housing; put something up quick" is important for those specific structures- though I think that can coexist with "wow that's ugly" -but. this person did not stop there)

[workersolidarity]

[ 📹 A father checks on his injured son laying on the floor of a local hospital after the Israeli occupation forces bombed their home in the Nuseirat Refugee Camp, in the central Gaza Strip, resulting in a number of casualties. ]

🇮🇱⚔️🇵🇸 🚀🏘️💥🚑 🚨

273 DAYS OF GENOCIDE IN GAZA: ISRAELI OCCUPATION SENDS DELEGATION TO RENEW HOSTAGE EXCHANGE TALKS WITH HAMAS, GAZA TO FACE DISASTER AS FUEL BEGINS TO RUN OUT, ISRAELI OCCUPATION ARMY CONTINUES MASS SLAUGHTER OF PALESTINIAN CIVILIANS

On 273rd day of the Israeli occupation's ongoing special genocide operation in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli occupation forces (IOF) committed a total of 4 new massacres of Palestinian families, resulting in the deaths of no less than 58 Palestinian civilians, mostly women and children, while another 179 others were wounded over the previous 24-hours.

It should be noted that as a result of the constant Israeli bombardment of Gaza's healthcare system, infrastructure, residential and commercial buildings, local paramedic and civil defense crews are unable to recover countless hundreds, even thousands, of victims who remain trapped under the rubble, or who's bodies remain strewn across the streets of Gaza.

This leaves the official death toll vastly undercounted as Gaza's healthcare officials are unable to accurately tally those killed and maimed in this genocide, which must be kept in mind when considering the scale of the mass murder.

The Israeli occupation Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, and his Security Cabinet have implemented the decision to send a delegation to meet in Doha, Qatar, for hostage exchange talks with the Palestinian resistance group Hamas.

Netanyahu met with his negotiating team prior to their departure to stress "again that the war will end only after achieving all of its goals, and not one moment earlier."

Meanwhile the occupation Prime Minister held a phone call with US President Joe Biden where Netanyahu reiterated his commitment to the Israeli occupation's goals in its ongoing genocidal war in the Gaza Strip, even as the occupation sends it's delegation to meet with the Hamas resistance group he swears to destroy.

The Israeli negotiating team will be led by the Mossad Chief David Barnea, who is expected to meet with the Hamas delegation prior to the arrival of the rest of his team, who will be brought in if the negotiations progress.

US Officials say they are optimistic that a deal can be reached, and the Americans said they welcomed the decision of the Israeli Prime Minister to send his delegation to Doha to continue with talks.

An anonymous American official who spoke with Reuters on Thursday evening said the Hamas proposal “includes a very significant breakthrough.”

"It can serve to advance negotiations. There’s a deal with a real chance of implementation. Though the clauses are not easy, they shouldn’t scupper the deal,” the official continued.

Another senior official told reporters on a conference call on Thursday that Hamas had made a significant adjustment in its demands for a hostage exchange deal, and expressed hope that it could lead to an agreement that would be a step towards an eventual ceasefire.

“We’ve had a breakthrough,” the official said in the call, going on to add that there were still some outstanding issues related to implementation of the agreement, and that a deal was not expected to be closed for several days.

The latest proposal is closely related to the one outlined by President Biden in a speech he gave back in May, which would introduce a format based on three stages of talks, which could ultimately lead to an eventual ceasefire and the release of all hostages.

The Israeli Prime Minister has faced intense criticism from both sides; some that want the government to reject all talks, versus groups such as the mother's of the hostages being held by the Palestinian Resistance who continue protests, demonstrating in Habima Square in Israeli-occupied Tel Aviv, joined by more than a thousand protesters to demand the Netanyahu regime come to a deal for the release of all hostages.

Meanwhile, in other news for Friday, July 5th, the World Health Organization (WHO) is warning the Gaza Strip faces a fuel shortage which could result in "catastrophic" consequences, as the enclave's healthcare system faces a potential collapse of basic services that require electricity to function.

Speaking on the social media platform X, WHO Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, said that "Further disruption to health services is imminent in Gaza due to a severe lack of fuel."

The WHO warned that just 90'000 liters of fuel entered the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, even as the healthcare sector alone requires a minimum of 80'000 liters daily just to provide basic care.

Fuel also must be provided to the some 21 ambulances which are still operational in Gaza, while the WHO said that fuel supplies were currently being rationed to "key hospitals", including the Nasser medical complex and Al-Amal Hospital in Khan Yunis, as well as the Kuwaiti Hospital in the city of Rafah, in Gaza's south, while the European Gaza Hospital in Khan Yunis has been out of service since Tuesday under threat of Israeli bombardment.

Further, Tedros Ghebreyesus gave warning that “losing more hospitals in the Strip would be catastrophic.”

In other news, the skin disease known as "scabies" has begun to spread widely among the Palestinian populations in densely populated camps, where Palestinian refugees in Gaza have taken shelter during the ongoing genocide.

Medical sources in Gaza say the accumulation of sewage water between the tents of the displaced, combined with the lack of hygiene due to the scarcity of clean water and basic necessities such as soaps and detergents, threatens to cause the accelerated spread of various infectious diseases and epidemics.

Currently, around 2 million displaced Palestinians live in shelters and camps under harsh conditions, with few resources or necessities that the population needs.

Worse still, a severe shortage of medicines and medical supplies threatens complications for the sick and wounded, who've packed into Gaza's hospitals by the hundreds and thousands. Already, dozens of Palestinians have died due to the shortage of medicines and supplies.

Since the start of the Israeli occupation's genocidal war in the Gaza Strip, international institutions and non-governmental organizations have warned of the spread of disease and epidemics among the displaced as overcrowding and a decline in personal hygiene has overtaken the majority of the population.

Medical sources have confirmed that thousands of Palestinians remain under threat of death as a result of continued lack of medicines, supplies, hygiene products and fuel for generators at the handful of remaining hospitals after 10 months of Israeli bombardment.

At the same time, the Israeli occupation's genocide of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip continues unabated as the occupation army intensified its bombing and shelling of residential neighborhoods and shelters, as well as public infrastructure.

In some of the latest attacks, Occupation warplanes bombed the Sheikh Nasser area, east of Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip, resulting in the deaths of two Palestinians who were transported to the Nasser medical complex in the city.

Similarly, Israeli fighter jets bombed a house in the Nuseirat Camp, in the central Gaza Strip, killing four civilians and wounding several others, while two others were killed after Zionist air forces bombed a gathering of civilians in the Al-Mawasi area, northwest of the city of Rafah, south of Gaza.

In another atrocity, Israeli occupation aircraft bombed a house belonging to the Al-Rifai family in the Al-Daraj neighborhood of Gaza City. After the bombing, civil defense crews and local residents managed to recover the bodies of two citizens killed in the strikes.

The horrors continued in Gaza's north when the Israeli occupation army bombed a site in Jabalia al-Balad, killing 5 Palestinian civilians, including at least 3 children, and wounding a number of others.

At the same time, occupation artillery shelling pummeled several areas in the town of Beit Lahiya, in the northern Gaza Strip, as well as the Nuseirat Camp in central Gaza.

In another assault, Zionist warplanes bombed a residential home belonging to the Al-Bardawil family in the Al-Daraj neighborhood, east of Gaza City, resulting in the deaths of 4 civilians and wounding several others who were taken to Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in the city.

Simultaneously, occupation fighter jets bombarded the eastern neighborhoods of the Al-Shujaiya neighborhood of Gaza City, coinciding with intense gunfire from Zionist soldiers, who detonated a number of homes in the neighborhood, continuing the army's systematic destruction of Palestinian housing.

In another massacre, Israeli occupation forces bombed a residential house belonging to the Khader family on Old Gaza Street in the town of Jabalia, north of Gaza, killing 5 civilians, including Bassam Khader, his wife and three children.

The atrocities continued with the bombing of an Israeli occupation drone, which targeted Al-Sikka Street east of the Jabalia Camp, north of Gaza, resulting in the death of a civilian and injuring three others who were transported by the Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) to Kamal Adwan Hospital in Beit Lahiya.

Another body of a Palestinian who was killed by the occupation army near the Tahrir Station on Salah al-Din Street, east of the city of Rafah, was transferred to Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis.

Meanwhile, Israeli artillery shelling targeted the Al-Nasr area, northeast of Rafah City, while at the same time, Zionist armored vehicles and other military vehicles penetrated into the Abu Halawa and Abu Al-Hussain areas, as well as the outskirts of the Al-Nasr area, east of Rafah City.

Additionally, occupation fighter jets bombed a home belonging to the Radwan family in the town of Bani Suhaila, east of Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip, resulting in the death of Adly Radwan, and wounding his wife, who was transported to the Nasser medical complex in the city.

The Israeli occupation forces also fired flares in the southeast of Khan Yunis, while Zionist warplanes bombed an uninhabited house in the town of Abasan Al-Kabira, east of the city.

The Zionist army went on to hammer the northwest of the Al-Nuseirat Camp, in central Gaza, using artillery shelling and gunfire, while occupation artillery shelling also targeted the north of Al-Zahra'a city, also in central Gaza.

As a result of the Israeli occupation's ongoing war of extermination in the Gaza Strip, the endlessly rising death toll now exceeds 38'011 Palestinians killed, including upwards of 10'000 women and well over 15'000 children, while another 87'445 others have been wounded since the start of the current round of Zionist aggression, beginning with the events of October 7th, 2023.

July 5th, 2024.

(No updated figures for death toll have been announced for July 5th)

#source1

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#source10

#videosource

@WorkerSolidarityNews

[yuriisclumsy]

𝐀𝐫𝐜 𝐈

𝐀𝐫𝐜 𝐈 (you are here) | 𝐀𝐫𝐜 𝐈𝐈 | 𝐀𝐫𝐜 𝐈𝐈𝐈

Ideas and rambles

— The Divine City is the place where the henvely meet the mortal.

— around 50-60% of the inhabitants have visions.

— the city is divided into three sections:

╰The outer section: this section is where majority of the population lives; around 50%. In this section everyone is allowed, from vision bearers to common folk.

╰The middle section: those who have visions are able to reside here(outside of government related jobs, for example: delegations, government employees, etc.). Any government retaliated issues, that don’t need divine approval, are dealt with here. Embassies, as well as government buildings, are located in the center of the Middle section where the commercial district is. For this reason Non-vision bearers are able to come and go as they please. The only ones allowed to stay and live in the middle section are vision bearers(aside for the government worker. Sorry, I don't make the rules). Around 30-40% of the population live here.

╰The core section: less than 10% of the population lives here. This is so because “her Grace” lives in this section. But she isn’t the only one that lives here, the Elite Academies of the city were constructed here by “her Grace”. The Core can be divided further, and it goes from outside to inside: residential area for students and staff, the academies follow, and last but not least, The Palace. The Palace is reserved for special occasions, for example: Archon meetings(once every few centuries), yearly galas(for a number of reasons: graduations), trials(mostly that are deemed necessary by celestia), and so on.

It is greatly appreciated for reblogs and commenting of this post

[mariacallous]

For the past several years, in response to rapidly rising housing prices and rents, local and state governments from Maine to Florida to Montana have been investigating policy changes that could make it easier to build more homes. One emerging strategy is citywide or statewide zoning reforms that legalize smaller, cheaper homes, including accessory dwelling units (ADUs), duplexes, and small apartment buildings.

The language used to discuss these policy changes is still evolving. Media, academics, and advocacy groups on both sides of the debate frequently use the phrase “end single-family zoning”—a statement that implies radical change, either for good or ill. But good-faith supporters of abundant housing should drop this phrase from their talking points for two reasons. First, “end single-family zoning” is sloppy, imprecise language that doesn’t help policymakers think through the details of their policy choices. Moreover, the vagueness and negative framing can unnecessarily confuse and scare voters.

To amend single-family zoning, local governments must decide which additional housing types to legalize

The phrase “end single-family zoning” fundamentally misunderstands how zoning laws work. The basic structure of zoning laws divides each city, town, or county into a set of districts or “zones,” and specifies the type of structures and activities that are allowed within each zone. Most communities designate some zones solely for residential uses, setting aside other zones for offices, retail, or industrial uses. Within each zoning district, the law specifies which structure types are allowed and not allowed. Figure 1 shows a simple illustration of how zoning laws enumerate housing types; each column represents a sample zoning district, with the rows indicating allowed or prohibited housing types.

Single-family-exclusive zones allow only detached residences for one household—all other structures are prohibited (Column 1). Single-family-exclusive zones are the dominant land use in most communities, accounting for roughly 75% of residential land. But many other residential zones allow a mixture of housing types, ranging from single-family detached homes to townhouses to multifamily buildings. The districts represented by Columns 2 through 6 could all be described as “not single-family-exclusive zoning,” but in practice, a district that allows only detached homes and ADUs (Column 2) will look and feel quite different than a district that allows everything from detached homes to high-rise apartment buildings (Column 5).

Put simply, local governments can “end” single-family zoning in a variety of different ways—and which types of housing they choose to legalize is an important policy decision. “Legalize ADUs and duplexes” may not have the same rhetorical punch, but it’s a more precise and accurate way of describing a policy proposal.

The government is not plotting to expropriate and demolish single-family homes

Besides obscuring what housing types will be added, the phrase “end single-family zoning” can mislead casual observers into believing that proposed zoning changes will make single-family homes illegal. After all, “end single-family zoning” and “end single-family housing” sound quite similar, especially to the majority of people, who are not experts on the nuts-and-bolts of land use regulation.

In practice, zoning reforms that legalize ADUs, townhouses, duplexes, and apartments typically do not place new restrictions on single-family detached homes. Most residential zones that permit higher-density forms of housing also explicitly allow single-family detached homes. The zones that prohibit development of new single-family homes tend to be commercial or industrial areas (where non-residential land uses create negative spillovers on nearby homes), and a few zones reserved for high-density housing (Column 6). Moreover, zoning changes primarily impact future development; existing buildings that no longer meet zoning or building code requirements are typically “grandfathered in,” meaning that current property owners can continue to use the buildings.

But these technical aspects of zoning are not transparent to voters and elected officials. Using clear, precise language will help good-faith participants better understand the public debate about zoning reforms. And the negative framing of “end single-family zoning” provides easy opportunities for committed NIMBYs (“Not In My Backyard”)—or more politely, “neighborhood defenders”—to claim that zoning changes will cause wholesale demolitions of existing homes or even “abolish the suburbs.”

Precise, moderate language can help set reasonable expectations

Zoning reforms are not an end unto themselves; the goal is for communities to develop more abundant and affordable housing. Revising zoning laws to legalize a more diverse range of homes—particularly smaller homes that use less land—is one step in a broader policy agenda. Local and state governments that want to boost housing supply also need to rethink related regulations, including discretionary review processes, building codes, parking requirements, and impact fees. Land use patterns change slowly over many years; both advocates and opponents of zoning reform should temper their expectations of an overnight revolution.

[khalid-albeshri]

The Top 10 Construction Firms Driving Growth in Saudi Arabia The construction sector in Saudi Arabia is experiencing rapid growth, driven largely by the Kingdom's Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependency on oil. Here are the top 10 construction firms playing a major role in this transformation: 1. Saudi Binladin Group – Established in 1931, this company has led some of Saudi Arabia’s most iconic projects, such as the Grand Mosque expansion in Mecca and King Abdulaziz International Airport​(DTC - درر تمام | Contracting Company)​(ControlTap). 2. El-Seif Engineering Contracting Company – Known for its work on high-rise buildings, including the Jeddah Tower, which aims to be the world's tallest structure​(DTC - درر تمام | Contracting Company). 3. Al-Rashid Trading & Contracting Co. (RTCC) – Involved in significant infrastructure projects such as the Riyadh Metro, RTCC has been instrumental in developing the Kingdom's transportation network​( ControlTap). 4. Nesma & Partners Contracting Co. Ltd. – This firm has a diverse portfolio, contributing to major projects like the King Saud University and the Riyadh Metro​(DTC - درر تمام | Contracting Company). 5. Almabani General Contractors – Established in 1972, this firm has contributed to the development of King Abdullah Economic City and other key projects​(ControlTap). 6. Controltap General Contracting – Specializing in MEP services, this company has been integral to numerous residential and commercial developments​(DTC - درر تمام | Contracting Company)​(ControlTap). 7. Al Harbi Trading & Contracting Co. Ltd. – Known for its involvement in large government and religious projects, including the Medina Holy Mosque expansion​(ControlTap). 8. Alfanar Construction – With expertise in construction and manufacturing, Alfanar has played a significant role in developing industrial and power infrastructure​(ControlTap). 9. Golden Obelisk Contracting Co. – Renowned for luxury residential and commercial projects, Golden Obelisk is known for its high-quality standards and timely delivery​(ControlTap). 10. Bechtel – A major international player, Bechtel has been involved in key Saudi projects such as the Riyadh Metro and various infrastructure developments​(Mordor Intel). These companies are shaping Saudi Arabia's future by contributing to megaprojects across sectors like transportation, residential development, and energy infrastructure, all aligned with Vision 2030.

#KhalidAlbeshri #خالدالبشري

[beardedmrbean]

ATLANTA (AP) — A new reactor at a nuclear power plant in Georgia has entered commercial operation, becoming the first new American reactor built from scratch in decades.

Georgia Power Co. announced Monday that Unit 3 at Plant Vogtle, southeast of Augusta, has completed testing and is now sending power to the grid reliably.

At its full output of 1,100 megawatts of electricity, Unit 3 can power 500,000 homes and businesses. Utilities in Georgia, Florida and Alabama are receiving the electricity.

Nuclear power now makes up about 25% of the generation of Georgia Power, the largest unit of Atlanta-based Southern Co.

A fourth reactor is also nearing completion at the site, where two earlier reactors have been generating electricity for decades. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission on Friday said radioactive fuel could be loaded into Unit 4, a step expected to take place before the end of September. Unit 4 is scheduled to enter commercial operation by March.

The third and fourth reactors were originally supposed to cost $14 billion, but are now on track to cost their owners $31 billion. That doesn’t include $3.7 billion that original contractor Westinghouse paid to the owners to walk away from the project. That brings total spending to almost $35 billion.

The third and fourth reactors were originally supposed to cost $14 billion, but are now on track to cost their owners $31 billion. That doesn’t include $3.7 billion that original contractor Westinghouse paid to the owners to walk away from the project. That brings total spending to almost $35 billion.

The third reactor was supposed to start generating power in 2016 when construction began in 2009.

Vogtle is important because government officials and some utilities are again looking to nuclear power to alleviate climate change by generating electricity without burning natural gas, coal and oil.

“This project shows just how new nuclear can and will play a critical role in achieving a clean energy future for the United States,” Southern Co. CEO Chris Womack said in a statement. “Bringing this unit safely into service is a credit to the hard work and dedication of our teams at Southern Company and the thousands of additional workers who have helped build that future at this site.”

In Georgia, almost every electric customer will pay for Vogtle. Georgia Power currently owns 45.7% of the reactors. Smaller shares are owned by Oglethorpe Power Corp., which provides electricity to member-owned cooperatives, the Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia and the city of Dalton. Oglethorpe and MEAG plan to sell power to cooperatives and municipal utilities across Georgia, as well in Jacksonville, Florida, and parts of Alabama and the Florida Panhandle.

Georgia Power’s 2.7 million customers are already paying part of the financing cost and elected public service commissioners have approved a monthly rate increase of $3.78 a month for residential customers as soon as the third unit begins generating power. That could hit bills in August, two months after residential customers saw a $16-a-month increase to pay for higher fuel costs.

Commissioners will decide later who pays for the remainder of the costs of Vogtle, including the fourth reactor.

[semiconductorwave]

Renraku Arcology - Illustration by Jim Nelson

The Renraku Arcology — formerly known as the Self-Contained Industrial-Residential Environment (SCIRE), and now known as Arcology Commercial and Housing Enclave (ACHE) — a massive, truncated, pyramid that was (and possibly still is) the ninth largest building in the world, and is a major landmark in modern Seattle.

Construction started in 2040, with completion in 2054. Originally home to over 90,000 Renraku employees and family members. The SCIRE served as a shopping mall, industrial complex, and basically self-contained private city of Renraku within the Seattle Metroplex. In the aftermath of the events known as Arcology Shutdown (2059-2061), the building was turned over to Seattle government, and turned into a massive public housing project.

[quercus-queer]

Happy Thanksgiving otherwise known as Drama with a Side of Turkey... if someone picks a fight with you about current events here is a very brief surface level list of talking points

According to Article 3 of the Geneva Convention and Article 6 of Additional Protocol II collective punishment is a war crime.

Israel Katz himself is quoted as saying "they [Gazans] will not receive a drop of water or a single battery until they leave the world."

Furthermore Article 51 of the Berlin Rules on Water Resources prohibits combatants (in this case the Israeli military from removing water infrastructure.

International Humanitarian Law prohibits any siege depriving civilians of essential goods while Yoav Gallant's "defense tactics" are a complete blockade of Gaza. It is well documented by the United Nations and journalists how deprived the civilians in Gaza are by the Israeli aggression.

The so-called gracious “evacuations” ordered by Israel is a crime according to the International Criminal Court under forcible transfer. 

The use of white phosphorus violates Protocol III of the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons as the Israeli army is using it directly against human beings in a civilian setting.

Gaza is one of the most densely populated areas on earth with 47.3% of the population being under 18 there is no circumstance in which any incendiary weapon should be deployed in Gaza let alone community centers.

In case there is doubt, there are videos of white phosphorous being used in broad daylight and on hospitals (Al-Durrah Children's Hospital).

The air strikes themselves violate international law as Daniel Hagari himself has stated that the emphasis of the Israeli air strikes is on damage and not on accuracy.

The Israeli government has carried out air strikes on the Al-Shati refugee camp sheltering over 90,000 refugees from Israeli aggression.

Targeting commercial centers like the Jabalia camp market which has been attacked multiple times since October 7th is a war crime. 

It is a war crime to target buildings dedicated to education or charitable purposes.

On October 17th Israel carried out an airstrike on the United Nations Relief and Works Agency school in the Al-Maghazi refugee camp. A United Nations school within a refugee camp.

Israeli officials later claimed United Nations workers are Hamas allies

Medical neutrality as described under the Geneva Convention has been violated as stated by the World Health Organization…

Every hospital bombed is another war crime Israel has committed. Bringing back the white phosphorus issue, Israel hit Al-Durrah Children's Hospital with white phosphorus munition. Bringing back water resources and collective punishment (which I hope we established was bad), the remaining hospitals are collapsing due to lack of electricity and water. 

"But Hamas tunnels! Human shields! Guards! Weapons!" None of that negates a hospital's protected status as described in the Geneva Convention.

It is a war crime to attack buildings dedicated to religion regardless of who is housed but especially if its housing refugees... obviously... again its in the Geneva Convention.

The Church of Saint Porphyrius, the Al-Gharbi mosque, Yassin mosque, and Al-Sousi mosque have been directly attacked

The intentional targeting of journalists is a war crime according to the Council of Europe.

There are 31 journalists who have been killed along with their families being targeted.

On October 10th Israel bombed a residential building (war crime) which also contained journalist offices (war crime). You can take a pick of whether they were targeting civilians or journalists, either way it’s a war crime. 

Killing surrendered civilians OR SURRENDERED COMBATANTS is again a war crime.

Israeli officials still have no comment on the video of IDF forces executing four unarmed Palestinian men kneeling on the ground (one of which was waving white clothing).

Videos have also surfaced of IDF soldiers violating international law by assaulting detainees and committing sexual humiliation.

Israel has expanded their attack to neighboring countries by carrying out air strikes in Lebanon, ready to fulfill their manifest destiny of Greater Israel.

Under the 1998 Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court, Israeli settlement of Palestine is a war crime. Obviously that is beyond a lot of peoples willingness to comprehend so lets reiterate what is happening right now. 

The average age of dead people in Gaza is 5.

More facts: Israel does not reflect the Jewish people or Jewish values they are a settler colonial state enacting apartheid and committing genocide. Conflating Israel with jewish people is anti-semetic. Evangelicals are the largest zionist group in the world because they are anti-semetic. AIPAC is the largest donor to politicians. Israel has systemically harmed holocaust survivors (1/3 of survivors in Israel are in poverty, they called them "soap bars", and said they were "inferior" as they were like "sheep to the slaughter"). Israel has violated Ethiopian Jewish woman's autonomy (Depo-Provera (contraceptive) every three months in Israeli clinics without their knowledge) and police brutality. Israel is a safe haven for pedophiles.

[ingek73]

The Observer

Monarchy

King and Prince William’s estates ‘making millions from charities and public services’

Duchies of Cornwall and Lancaster likely to make at least £50m from leasing land to services such as NHS and schools, according to investigation

Richard Palmer

Sat 2 Nov 2024 20.50 CET

King Charles and Prince William’s property empires are taking millions of pounds from cash-strapped charities and public services including the NHS, state schools and prisons, according to a new investigation.

The reports claim the Duchies of Lancaster and Cornwall, which are exempt from business taxes and used to fund the royals’ lifestyles and philanthropic work, are set to make at least £50m from leasing land to public services. The two duchies hold a total of more than 5,400 leases.

One 15-year deal will see Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS hospital trust in London pay £11.4m to store its fleet of electric ambulances in a warehouse owned by the Duchy of Lancaster, the monarch’s 750-year-old estate.

The king will also make at least £28m from windfarms because the Duchy of Lancaster retains a feudal right to charge for cables crossing the foreshore, according to an investigation by Channel 4’s Dispatches and the Sunday Times.

William’s Duchy of Cornwall, the hereditary estate of the heir to the throne, has signed a £37m deal to lease Dartmoor prison for 25 years to the Ministry of Justice, which is liable for all repairs despite paying £1.5m a head for a jail empty of prisoners because of high levels of radon gas.

His estate also owns Camelford House, a 1960s tower block on the banks of the Thames, which has brought in at least £22m since 2005 from rents paid by charities and other tenants. Two cancer charities, Marie Curie and Macmillan – of which the king is a longstanding patron – have both recently moved out to smaller premises.

The Duchy of Cornwall has charged the Royal Navy more than £1m to build and use jetties and moor warships. It also charges the army to train on Dartmoor but the Ministry of Defence refused a Freedom of Information Act request asking how much it costs. The duchy also made more than £600,000 from the construction of a fire station and stands to get nearly £600,000 from rental agreements with six state schools.

In spite of the king and Prince William’s speeches and interventions on environmental issues, many residential properties let out by the royal estates are in breach of basic government energy efficiency standards.

InvestigatorsThe investigation found 14% of homes leased by the Duchy of Cornwall and 13% by the Duchy of Lancaster have an energy performance rating of F or G. Since 2020, it has been against the law for landlords to rent out properties that are rated below an E under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards regulations.

The Duchy of Lancaster said: “Over 87% of all duchy-let properties are rated E or above. The remainder are either awaiting scheduled improvement works or are exempted under UK legislation.”

The royal estates also have deals with mining and quarrying companies.

The investigation has prompted calls for a parliamentary investigation and for the two empires to be folded into the crown estate, which sends its profits to the government. The king and Prince William pay income tax on profits from the estates after business expenses have been deducted, but both now refuse to say how much.

Critics say the estates, the income from which have been used by successive governments to keep the headline cost of the monarchy to the taxpayer down, enjoy a commercial advantage over rivals because they are exempt from corporation tax and capital gains tax.

Baroness Margaret Hodge, a former chair of the Commons public accounts committee, said the duchies should at least pay corporation tax. “This would be a brilliant time for the monarch to say, I’m going to be open, and I want to be treated as fairly as anybody,” she said.

Both duchies said they were commercial operations that complied with statutory requirements to disclose information. They also emphasised their efforts to become greener.

The Duchy of Lancaster said: “His majesty the king voluntarily pays tax on all income received from the duchy.”

-

&

Over the last two decades the royals have made £22m from the rental of office space in "Charity Towers" at commercial rates to organisations such as Marie Curie, MacMillan Cancer Support and Comic Relief. The King is the patron of Marie Curie and MacMillan

(from someone who is not a sycophant)

Disgusting

And they are already getting half a billion every year

[steeloncallkavya]

TMT Bar Rate: A Key Factor in Construction Projects

TMT (Thermo-Mechanically Treated) bars are a fundamental component in modern construction. They are widely used for reinforcing concrete structures, providing strength and durability to buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure projects. TMT bars are favored for their high strength, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion, making them an essential material for both residential and commercial construction.

One of the most important factors influencing the cost of construction is the TMT bar rate. The price of TMT bars can vary depending on various factors such as material quality, market conditions, demand, and geographical location. Understanding the TMT bar rate is crucial for construction businesses, builders, and individuals to plan their budgets effectively.

In this article, we will explore what TMT bars are, how they are priced, the factors that influence TMT bar rates, and how these prices impact construction projects.

Factors Influencing TMT Bar Rate

Several factors influence the rate of TMT bars, which fluctuate over time. Understanding these factors can help individuals and businesses better plan and budget for construction projects.

1. Raw Material Costs

The primary raw material used in the production of TMT bars is iron ore. The price of iron ore can vary based on market conditions, international supply, and demand. When the cost of raw materials rises, the price of TMT bars typically follows suit. Global factors such as trade policies, supply chain disruptions, and natural disasters can cause fluctuations in the price of iron ore, affecting the tmt bar rate.

2. Production Process

The cost of producing TMT bars is another factor that affects their rate. The thermo-mechanical treatment process, which involves high energy consumption for heating and rapid cooling, can make TMT bars more expensive than traditional steel bars. The more advanced the production technology and machinery used, the higher the overall production cost, which in turn affects the price.

3. Demand and Supply Dynamics

Like any commodity, the price of TMT bars is influenced by supply and demand dynamics. In periods of high demand, such as during a construction boom or in regions where infrastructure development is happening at a rapid pace, the price of TMT bars may increase. Conversely, during slow construction periods, when demand for building materials drops, the rate of TMT bars may decrease.

Regional variations in demand also play a role. For example, large cities or regions with high construction activity may see higher TMT bar prices compared to areas with less demand.

4. Transportation and Logistics Costs

TMT bars are often produced in specific regions, and transportation costs can have a significant impact on the final rate. If TMT bars need to be transported over long distances or to remote areas, logistics costs will increase, which is reflected in the price. Additionally, fuel costs and transportation infrastructure can influence the cost of getting TMT bars from the factory to construction sites.

5. Government Policies and Taxes

Government policies, including taxes, duties, and import/export regulations, can also affect the price of TMT bars. For example, the imposition of import duties on steel products or changes in tax rates can increase the cost of TMT bars. Conversely, subsidies or reductions in taxes on raw materials may lower the price. Construction businesses need to stay updated on any changes in government policies that could impact TMT bar rates.

6. Technological Advancements

Technological innovations in steel manufacturing can also influence the TMT bar rate. For instance, new methods of production that increase efficiency and reduce energy consumption can lower the cost of producing TMT bars. On the other hand, investments in research and development or advanced machinery may increase the cost of production in the short term but could lead to higher-quality products in the long run.

How TMT Bar Rate Impacts Construction Projects

The rate of TMT bars is a significant factor in the overall cost of construction. The amount of TMT bar required for a project depends on the size of the structure, the grade of the steel, and the complexity of the design. Since TMT bars are used extensively in reinforcing concrete, their cost can make up a significant portion of the material budget in construction projects.

1. Cost Estimation and Budgeting

Builders and contractors need to factor in the TMT bar rate when estimating the total cost of a project. Since TMT bars are a critical material in construction, fluctuations in their price can impact the overall budget. If the price of TMT bars increases unexpectedly, it may lead to cost overruns unless the budget is adjusted accordingly. Accurate cost estimation and understanding of the market conditions are crucial for successful project management.

2. Project Planning

Construction projects typically involve a large number of materials, and delays or changes in the price of one material can lead to project delays. For example, if the price of TMT bars rises significantly during the construction phase, contractors may need to purchase the required quantity of steel at higher rates, affecting project timelines and costs.

To avoid such situations, project managers often lock in prices in advance or place bulk orders to secure a more favorable rate. Additionally, monitoring TMT bar prices and market trends is essential for making informed decisions.

3. Quality vs. Cost

While the price of TMT bars is a key consideration, the quality of the bars should not be compromised in an effort to reduce costs. Using substandard TMT bars can lead to structural weaknesses, which can be costly in the long run due to repairs, maintenance, or even failure of the structure. Therefore, while TMT bar rates play a role in the budgeting process, quality must always be prioritized to ensure the safety and longevity of the construction.

Conclusion

The TMT bar rate plays a crucial role in determining the overall cost of construction projects. Builders, contractors, and project managers must stay informed about the various factors that influence TMT bar prices, such as raw material costs, demand and supply, production processes, and government policies. By understanding these factors, they can make informed decisions about purchasing and budgeting for TMT bars.

If you are looking for best quality tmt bars, please visit our website : www.steeloncall.com or you can contact us through our toll-free number: 18008332929

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

[BANKSY]

* * * *

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

October 27, 2023

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

OCT 28, 2023

An article this morning jumped out at me. Catherine Rampell of the Washington Post noted that the U.S. economy “looks remarkably good.” A recent stunning jobs report, showing that the economy continues to add jobs at record rates—more than 13.9 million since President Joe Biden took office—along with yesterday’s stunning report that U.S. economic growth grew at an annual pace of 4.9% in the third quarter of this year, puts the U.S. economy at the forefront of most of the world. And inflation is back in the range that the Federal Reserve prefers—it’s at 2.4%, close to the Fed’s target of 2%.

The U.S. is outperforming forecasts made even before the pandemic began for where the economy would be now, even as other countries are worse off. 

And yet, Rampell notes, Americans are about as negative about the economy today as they were during the Great Recession after 2008, when mortgage foreclosures were forcing people out of their homes and unemployment rested at about 9%, more than twice what it is today. In contrast, consumers give high marks to the Trump years, when average growth before the pandemic was 2.5% and the U.S. added only about 6.4 million jobs.

There is a crucial divorce here between image and reality. Americans think our economy, currently the strongest in the world, is in poor shape. They mistakenly believe it was better under Trump.

That profound and measurable disjunction ought to make us sit up and take notice, especially as the Biden administration continues to try to make the economy responsive to ordinary Americans and the country continues to pay little attention. Today, for example, the White House announced an effort to turn the dual problems of empty office buildings and a shortage of affordable housing into a win-win. It announced a series of actions to convert vacant commercial properties to residential buildings. Their efforts are designed to create affordable, energy-efficient housing near public transportation and jobs.  

The importance of identifying the contrast between image and reality in today’s politics showed recently as the meticulous work of Nashville investigative reporter Phil Williams of Tennessee’s NewsChannel 5 appears to have had an important effect on the mayoral election in Franklin, Tennessee. 

While far-right Christian nationalist mayoral candidate Alderman Gabrielle Hanson promised she was “committed to restoring and upholding the wholesome values that have long been the foundation of our city’s identity,” Williams exposed to voters Hanson’s shady history. He showed that Hanson had lied about having multiracial supporters and her ties to white supremacists, highlighted her bizarre behavior, and noted her embrace of Christian nationalism. 

On Tuesday, voters overwhelmingly rejected Hanson and other far-right candidates. Hanson won just 20.6% of the vote to 79.4% for the incumbent mayor. Then, after losing, Hanson apparently had her husband drop off her computer and ID badge at City Hall, abandoning her term as alderman before its November 14th end. 

Such deep investigation stands out in an increasingly turbulent sea of disinformation. Shayan Sardarizadeh of the BBC explained to Hanaa’ Tameez of Neiman Journalism Lab that social media posters on platforms like TikTok, YouTube, or Twitter can make significant sums of money from “engagement farming.” Posting outrageous material that engages viewers pumps up a user’s brand, making them able to command high prices from marketers.  

Sardarizadeh notes that the Israel-Hamas war is a particularly attractive situation for engagement farmers, and rumors and fake videos are flying. 

But there are plenty of opportunities for disinformation at home, too, for political purposes. In Ohio, the Republican-controlled Ohio Senate is using its official government website to push what Associate Press legal and medical experts say is “false or misleading” information against the proposed constitutional amendment the state’s voters will consider in the November 7 election. Their inflammatory language warns, for example, that the measure will “legalize abortion on demand at any stage of pregnancy” and permit “the dismemberment of fully conscious children,” the rhetoric of anti-abortion activists.

Julie Carr Smyth and Christine Fernando of the Associated Press report that Republicans began their “On the Record” blog on the state Senate website after Ohio voters rejected their attempts to make it much harder to pass constitutional amendments. The Republicans bill the blog as an “online newsroom” where voters can find “the views the news excludes.” Republican Senate president Matt Huffman denied that the blog was a news service, but it sits under the “News” tab on the Senate’s website. 

“My [Republican] colleagues say that this is done because the mainstream media won’t print their stuff,” Democratic state senator Bill DeMora told the reporters. “But of course, the mainstream media won’t pick this up because it’s factually incorrect and basically lies.” 

But because the blog appears on an official government website, internet searches turn it up as a reliable source. Laura Manley, executive director of the Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics and Public Policy at the Harvard Kennedy School, told Smyth and Fernando: “It’s a really strategic way to make something appear to be neutral information and fact when that’s not the reality…. I’ve never seen anything like that.”

Finally, after a two-day manhunt, law enforcement officers found Maine mass murder suspect Robert Card dead tonight from a self-inflicted gunshot. Reports suggest that Card had at least a recent history of mental illness and note that his social media accounts show a history of engagement with right-wing and Republican political content.

—

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

[workersolidarity]

[ 📹 Scenes of chaos and fear after the Israeli occupation forces bombed a school housing displaced Palestinian families opposite Nasser Medical Complex west of the city of Khan Yunis, in the southern Gaza Strip, after displacing civilians from other areas of the enclave. 📈 Current death toll in Gaza exceeds 37'953 Palestinians killed, while another 87'266 others have been wounded since Oct. 7th. ]

🇮🇱⚔️🇵🇸 🚀🏘️💥🚑 🚨

GENOCIDE CONTINUES ON DAY 271: ISRAELI OCCUPATION REACHES OUT TO GAZA CLAN LEADERS, HAMAS WARNS OF RETALIATION FOR COLLABORATORS, ZIONIST COLONIAL SETTLERS CONTINUE RAIDING AL-AQSA MOSQUE, AL-QUDS BRIGADES SAY HOSTAGES ATTEMPTED SUICIDE AS THEIR TREATMENT BECOMES MORE SEVERE FOLLOWING REPORTS OF TORTURE IN ISRAELI PRISONS, SLAUGHTER OF CIVILIANS CONTINUES

On 271st day of the Israeli occupation's ongoing special genocide operation in the Gaza Strip, the Israeli occupation forces (IOF) committed a total of 3 new massacres of Palestinian families, resulting in the deaths of no less than 28 Palestinian civilians, mostly women and children, while another 125 others were wounded over the previous 24-hours.

It should be noted that as a result of the constant Israeli bombardment of Gaza's healthcare system, infrastructure, residential and commercial buildings, local paramedic and civil defense crews are unable to recover countless hundreds, even thousands, of victims who remain trapped under the rubble, or who's bodies remain strewn across the streets of Gaza.

This leaves the official death toll vastly undercounted as Gaza's healthcare officials are unable to accurately tally those killed and maimed in this genocide, which must be kept in mind when considering the scale of the mass murder.

A number of Israeli hostages have attempted suicide in the detention of the Palestinian resistance. This is according to the Al-Quds Brigades, belonging to the group Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ).

In a statement, the Al-Quds Brigades said that several Israeli hostages in their care had attempted suicide due to the severe frustration they feel owing to their government's disinterest in recovering their detainees, and due to the deteriorating treatment they are receiving from their captors.

According to Al-Quds, as a result of the horrendous treatment of Palestinian prisoners at the hands of the Israeli occupation army in occupation prisons, including allegations of torture, rape, withholding of food and water, blindfolding, medical abuse and more, the Palestinian resistance group has taken a decision to treat their detainees harshly.

"Our decision in the Al-Quds Brigades to treat the occupation's prisoners in the same way as our prisoners inside the prisons, will remain in effect as long as the terrorist government continues its unjust measures against our people and prisoners. He who warns is excused," Al-Quds said in its statement.

In the meantime, one of the main reasons the Palestinian resistance factions cited for conducting Operation Al-Aqsa Flood on October 7th, 2023, was the regular raids by Zionist colonial settlers of the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound in occupied Al-Quds (Jersusalem), one of the holiest sites in Islamic religion.

Those raids continue to occur, with groups of dozens of Zionist colonial settlers storming the compound on Wednesday, while under the protection of the Israeli occupation army.

Local eyewitnesses reported today that groups of dozens of Zionist colonial settlers raided the Al-Aqsa Mosque compound, touring the Mosque's courtyard and performing provocative Talmudic rituals as the occupation army protected the settlers.

The report also added that the Occupation Shin Bet Police stormed the Old City of occupied Al-Quds, turning the area into a military barracks, while hundreds of police were deployed to secure the area, in particular near the gates of the Al-Aqsa compound.

The Shin Bet also tightened security measures at the gates of the Old City, as well as Al-Aqsa Mosque, while imposing restrictions on the entry of Palestinian worshippers.

In other news on Wednesday, July 3rd, the London-based Reuters news-wire service is reporting that the Israeli entity has been reaching out to the leaders of major Gaza clans, looking to find Palestinians that are not associated with Hamas or other Palestinian resistance factions to oversee the final stages of the occupation's plans in the Gaza Strip, and to eventually replace the Hamas movement in governing the enclave.

Reuters says the Israeli occupation remains under heavy pressure from the United States to bring an end to the war in the Gaza Strip, but does not want Hamas to retain control over the Strip.

As a result, the Israeli occupation's leadership is forming plans for the "day after" the end of the war, including forming a governing structure parallel to the Hamas government that has led the Gaza Strip since 2007, hoping to shape an alternative civil administration involving Palestinians that are not associated with the Palestinian Resistance movement.

Unfortunately for the occupation, this leaves few plausible options, with the current focus being on the heads of powerful Palestinian clans in Gaza, which the Israeli entity has been attempting to woo in recent days.

Speaking with Reuters, Senior Palestine Analyst at the International Crises Group, a Brussels-based think-tank, Tahani Mustafa, says the Zionist entity has been "actively looking for local tribes and families on the ground to work with them."

According to Tahani Mustafa, the Gaza Clans "don’t want to get involved, in part because they fear retribution from Hamas."

The threat is a real one for Gaza's Clan leaders, who fear retribution from Hamas, who, despite the Israeli occupation's determination to destroy the Resistance group, retains its control over large sections of the Palestinian enclave.

Sure enough, a correspondant with Reuters asked the director of Gaza's media office, Ismail Thawabteh, what the consequences would be for those who cooperate with the Zionist regime, who responded by saying “I expect the response to be deadly for any clan or party that agrees to implement the occupation’s plans. I expect the response to be lethal from the resistance factions.”

Occupation Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has acknowledged the challenges he will face in instituting a new governing structure in the Gaza Strip, claiming his government has reached out to Gaza's clans, but that Hamas "eliminated" them, adding that his Defense Ministry had a new plan, but would not elaborate on it, stating only that he was not willing to bring in the Palestinian Authority to govern in Gaza.

The Palestinian clans are made up of powerful families in the Gaza Strip, ones which do not have formal connections with the Hamas resistance movement, with each clan having a leader known as a "mukhtar", which under British rule, prior to the creation of the Israeli entity in 1948, were heavily relied on to govern.

Following Hamas' rise to power, the clans powers were limited by the religious movement, but were still allowed a certain degree of autonomy, while clans remain influential and own a number of commercial businesses and facilities in the Palestinian enclave

The Israeli occupation already retains contact with Gaza's clans in order to coordinate commercial shipments and deliveries, among other practical issues.

According to Reuters, clan leaders are reluctant to disclose contacts with the Israeli occupation, while others said the mukhtars would not cooperate with the Zionist entity.

One of Gaza's clan leaders that spoke with Reuters said he knew of calls other mukhtars had had with the Israeli authorities, but that "I expect that mukhtars will not cooperate with these games," citing anger with the occupation over its genocide of Palestinians in the Strip, which has killed a number of clan members and destroyed much of their property.

Meanwhile, the slaughter of civilians, along with the destruction of housing and public infrastructure in Gaza, continues into its 10th month as the occupation army bombs and shells various areas of the enclave.

The Israeli occupation forces (IOF) continued on Wednesday with its attacks on the Al-Shujaiya neighborhood, east of Gaza City, bombing residential homes and causing the deaths of a number of Palestinian civilians, including women and children, while local rescue crews were unable to reach sites due to the continued bombardment and gunfire from occupation drones.

In a new atrocity, Zionist warplanes bombed a residential house belonging to the Maqat family in the vicinity of the Sheikh Radwan neighborhood, north of Gaza City, after which, local paramedic crews managed to recover the bodies of 7 civilians killed in the strikes, along with 7 wounded victims from under the rubble. The casualties were transported to Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital in the city.

Simultaneously, Zionist artillery shelling pummeled the Tal al-Hawa neighborhood, southwest of Gaza City, while gunfire from occupation armored vehicles targeted citizen's homes.

Similarly, Israeli quadcopter drones fired at civilians in various areas of Gaza City, in conjuction with the violent artillery shelling of the Al-Zaytoun neighborhood, southeast of the city.

An Israeli occupation fighter jet also fired a missile into the Al-Ghafri printing press on Jaffa Street, in the Al-Tuffah neighborhood, east of Gaza City, while another Zionist aircraft fired a missile into a residential apartment complex in the Zarqa neighborhood of Gaza City, leaving rescue crews to search the rubble for the dead and wounded.

In the meantime, the Palestinian Red Crescent Society (PRCS) is reporting that two civilians were wounded as a result of an occupation airstrike on a residential house belonging to the Kurd family, in the Beit Lahiya Project in Gaza's north, while the wounded were transferred to Kamal Adwan Hospital near the Jabalia Camp.

The Israeli occupation army also shelled several areas of the Nuseirat Refugee Camp, in the central Gaza Strip, as well as in the Al-Zahra'a area, and the Al-Mughraqa area, coinciding with intense occupation gunfire.

IOF warplanes also continue their bombardment of residential homes and apartment complexes in central and western Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip.

The Zionist entity continued its war crimes when it bombed a gathering of civilians attempting to return to their homes in the Al-Shujaiya neighborhood, east of Gaza City, resulting in the deaths of four Palestinians and wounding more than 17 others.

In another atrocity, an Israeli drone bombed a civilian vehicle in the Al-Maghazi Refugee Camp, in central Gaza, killing three more civilians and wounding several others who were taken to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah.

In the meantime, areas northeast of the Jabalia Camp sustained intermittent artillery shelling from the occupation army, wounding a number of Palestinian civilians.

The crimes of the Zionist occupation continued with an airstrike that targeted a residential apartment in the Nuseirat Camp, in central Gaza, killing two Palestinians and wounding several others who were transported to Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital.

Local civil defense crews also managed to recover the bodies of 7 murdered Palestinians from the Tal al-Sultan neighborhood, west of the city of Rafah, in the southern Gaza Strip, including 5 completely charred bodies.

Later, on Wednesday afternoon, the Zionist army bombed a group of Palestinians in the Jahar al-Dik area near Al-Nuseirat, killing two and wounding others who were transferred to Al-Awda Hospital in the Nuseirat Camp.

Due to the continued bombing of public infrastructure in the southern Gaza Strip, including water treatment plants, wells, and sewage systems, deep levels of sewage now run through the streets of Khan Yunis, where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have been forced to reside after being displaced from one area after another, now being ordered into the city by the Zionist occupation army.

As a result of the Israeli occupation's ongoing war of extermination in the Gaza Strip, the infinitely rising death toll now exceeds 37'953 Palestinians killed, including upwards of 10'000 women and well over 15'000 children, while another 87'266 others have been wounded since the start of the current round of Zionist aggression, beginning with the events of October 7th, 2023.

July 3rd, 2024.

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@WorkerSolidarityNews

[simpurpleplumbob]

Welcome to Empty Save Nation: The Watcher’s Project.  (Name suggestion by @melsie-sims) A BUILD-A-CITY-CHALLENGE

The Watcher's Project is the creation of a new nation, Empty Save Nation. The project is set to work,  by creating a new system of government that is responsive to the needs of the citizens, and by launching this multifaceted project, it will help to alleviate the strain back in SimCity (more on that later).

This nation is completely empty of citizens, resources, existing residential and commercial infrastructure, and government—a true blank canvas using @srslysims empty save file. The project rules have been created by @purzelsims and @daisydezem, inspired by @melsie-sims & @flethro, and subject to change (as they see fit) by a mysterious entity who calls themselves 'The Watcher', and rumours has it that they had come from beyond the stars. 

The Watcher had previously carefully crafted their sims in Create-A-Sim, giving them unique physical features, personalities and backstories to live their lives in SimCity but

SimCity...

...is in dire straits. Poverty and overcrowding has reached an all-time high, and the city is struggling to meet the needs of its growing population. 

There is a dire need for housing, transportation, energy systems,  and other infrastructures to support the population. Employment and basic services such as education and health care were also in short supply.

So in the gallery they remained…

[realestatemohali]

Real estate

Real estate is a term related to land and buildings on it. There are different real estate properties:e Residential, Commercial, and Industrial. Real estate involves a lot of funds so proper guidance and a specialist's consultancy are required when buying any property. Various factors need to be taken care of when investing related to the property title, builder's reputation, and Government regulations. In recent years Mohali and surrounding areas like New Chandigarh, Kharar, and Zirakpur have shown tremendous growth in the real estate industry because of the International airport based in the vicinity and organized development and planning led by the Greater Mohali Area Development Authority and Private Developers. This has attracted not only many hospitals schools, IT companies, and International brands but also many people who want to establish their business, buy their dream home, or invest in this growing city.

At AB Realtors we aim at providing a one-stop solution for all your queries related to real estate. Whether buying/selling a House, Flat, Residential plot, Office space, or Industrial property or leasing/renting any of the above. We deal in the proper allotment of property for our clients by assisting them at every step from choosing the property to the end by registering the property in the client's name with legal documents. With years of experience in this field, we specialize in finding the right properties for you that have a clear title away from any litigation and have the potential to appreciate in the upcoming years.

[dkaufmandevelopment]

Unlocking New York City’s Potential: The Rise of Office-to-Residential Conversions

Post-pandemic, the great hope for office-to-residential conversions in New York City was that they would address two critical challenges facing commercial real estate: the surplus of office space due to hybrid/work-from-home norms and the affordable housing crisis across the five boroughs.

A Shift in Perspective

Initially, this hope seemed to fall short due to several factors, including the physical limitations of older office buildings—windows and floor plates not conducive to residential use—and zoning complexities. However, over the past year, a positive shift has occurred. Government initiatives, such as New York City’s Office Conversion Accelerator Program (launched last year), the new 467-meter state tax exemption for conversions (with benefits tied to timing and geography), and Mayor Eric Adams’s proposed City of Yes zoning overhaul, are instilling optimism among developers. They now see a path to profitable and productive conversions that contribute to housing solutions.

A Promising Surge

To gauge the growth of office-to-residential conversions, consider this: between 2010 and 2020, New York City witnessed 34 such transformations, according to the Department of City Planning. However, in just one year since the Accelerator program’s announcement, 69 building owners have expressed interest in potential conversions. This surge could mark a pivotal moment in addressing the city’s dual challenges.

Streamlining the Process

The Office Conversion Accelerator Program plays a crucial role. It provides owners undertaking conversions of at least 50 residential units with a central contact within city government. This streamlined approach eliminates the need for separate communication with various departments—City Planning, Buildings, Housing Preservation & Development, Standards and Appeals, and the Landmarks Preservation Commission—to ensure compliance with codes and zoning regulations.

Momentum Building

Recent industry news reflects this momentum. GFP Real Estate and TPG Real Estate recently submitted a Buildings Department application to convert 222 Broadway—a 31-story, 750,000-square-foot office building—into 798 apartments. The estimated cost of this transformation stands at $43.6 million. The project, purchased from DWS in June for $150 million, lists CetraRuddy as the architect.

In summary, New York City’s office-to-residential conversions are gaining traction, offering a glimmer of hope for both the real estate market and affordable housing. As the logjam loosens, developers and city officials collaborate to create a more vibrant and inclusive urban landscape.

[eretzyisrael]

In a statement, the IDF said:

IDF troops have secured control over Hamas’ “Elite Quarter” in the center of Gaza City, including the area of the ‘Palestine Square’, from where Hamas’ administrative and military leadership operated. The complex includes a large network of tunnels that connects terrorist hideouts, bureaus, and residential apartments belonging to Hamas’ senior leadership. This complex, both above and below ground, was a center of power for Hamas’ military and political wings. In recent weeks, the 401st Brigade in the 162nd Division, along with forces from the Shaldag Unit, Shayetet 13 and the Yahalom Unit have been operating in the area of Rimal in Gaza City, where ‘Palestine Square’ is located. The forces carried out a combined and coordinated offensive on ‘Palestine Square’ and took operational control over the area. Over the last few days, the area was completely secured. During the battles to secure the area, IDF forces eliminated approximately 600 terrorists in both ground and aerial operations. ‘Palestine Square’ was a center of Hamas’ military rule and is surrounded by buildings that served as command and control centers, terror tunnel shafts and strategic buildings belonging to the organization. This military infrastructure was located in the direct vicinity of commercial stores, government buildings, civilian residences, and a designated school for deaf children. The square is the center of the strategic tunnel network, of some of Hamas leadership’s strongholds and connects to the underground infrastructure in the area of ​​the Rantisi Hospital and the Shifa Hospital.  After securing the area, a “sweep and clear” operation revealed the underground terrorist city which is part of Hamas’ tunnel system and includes a strategic tunnel route connected to other significant underground infrastructure in the Gaza Strip. Tunnel shafts leading to the network of tunnels are located in the residences and offices of senior officials and allow for a covert descent through designated elevators and stairs. This enabled Hamas operatives to both escape and remain in hideouts for extended periods. The underground tunnel network includes blast doors and hideouts. In some cases, food products, water, and electrical infrastructure were found that allowed for prolonged stays. This network was used by the organization’s senior officials, Ismail Haniyeh, Yahya Sinwar, Muhammad Deif, and others, to direct Hamas’ operational activity. It was also used for protected daily movement through the heart of Gaza City. In the vicinity of these buildings, Hamas established a specialized workshop for digging and building the underground network. A tunnel shaft used for logistics and tunnel construction equipment including tunnel walls and concrete arches that make up the tunnel ceilings, were found inside the workshop. Next to the workshop is a shaft 20 meters deep, with descending spiral stairs, as well as a blast door and forks in the tunnel’s pathway. The tunnel shaft was demolished by explosives embedded by Hamas there, and numerous weapons and technological devices were found nearby.

Palestine Square was used by Hamas to parade the bodies of dead Israelis, and to film propaganda videos involving terrified Israeli hostages before they were released, often with the acquiescence of the Red Cross. Israeli soldiers lit Hanukkah candles in the square earlier this month as a statement of defiance against Hamas’s atrocities.