#asphalt paving process

[asphalt-contractors]

Discover top-rated asphalt paving services in Aurora, offering high-quality, durable solutions for driveways, parking lots, and roads. Enhance your property with professional paving that ensures smooth, long-lasting results.

[asphalt-paving-pro]

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Asphalt Pavement Installation

Asphalt pavement installation is an essential investment for any kind of property, be it an industrial complex, a commercial parking lot, or a residential driveway. A well-executed installation guarantees longevity, use, and visual appeal. Nonetheless, a lot of contractors and property owners make mistakes that can lower the pavement's durability and quality. In the long term, you can save time and money by being aware of these typical traps and avoiding them.

1. Skipping the Site Preparation

Inadequate site preparation is one of the biggest errors made during the asphalt paving process. In order to guarantee a strong foundation, planning is essential. This includes removing any debris from the area, making sure that drainage is adequate, and grading the ground to avoid water buildup. Inadequate site preparation can result in uneven pavement, cracking, and early asphalt breakdown.

Tip: Prior to starting the asphalt paving process, make sure the location is properly ready. This includes clearing up outdated pavement, leveling the ground, and taking care of any drainage problems.

2. Using Poor-Quality Materials

The final outcome can be significantly impacted by the quality of the materials used in the asphalt paving process. Potholes, early cracking, and a shorter lifespan might result from using an inferior asphalt mixture or material. Make sure you always utilize products of the highest caliber and that they come from reliable sources.

Tip: Check the materials' quality before using them. Purchasing premium materials and asphalt will result in a pavement that lasts longer.

3. Inadequate Compaction

Adequate compaction is necessary to create an asphalt surface that lasts. An unstable surface that is prone to distortion and breaking might result from inadequate compaction. To guarantee that the asphalt is compacted to the proper density, the compaction process needs to be closely watched.

Tip: To attain the best density, use the proper compaction tools and methods. This contributes to the creation of a sturdy, durable surface that can tolerate environmental factors and traffic volumes.

4. Ignoring Temperature and Weather Conditions

The weather and temperature have a significant impact on the asphalt paving process. A certain temperature range must be maintained during asphalt installation in order to guarantee adequate compaction and bonding. When asphalt is installed in cold or wet weather, the surface may be of worse quality and more prone to deterioration.

Tip: Schedule your asphalt paving project for a time when the weather is favorable and keep an eye on the temperature to make sure it's within the acceptable range for installation.

5. Improper Drainage Design

The lifespan of asphalt pavement is highly dependent on effective drainage. Water pooling brought on by poor drainage can erode asphalt and produce cracks and deterioration. To keep water off the paved surface, a suitable drainage system must be designed and put into place.

Tip: To avoid water damage and prolong the life of your pavement, incorporate appropriate drainage solutions, such as sloped surfaces, catch basins, and drainage pipes, into your asphalt paving process.

6. Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Ignoring routine maintenance after an asphalt paving process goes well can still result in issues later on. Regular upkeep helps shield the pavement from harm and increases its longevity. Examples of this type of maintenance include crack sealing and sealcoating.

Tip: A regular maintenance routine will help you keep your asphalt pavement in top condition and handle problems quickly.

7. Overloading the Surface Prematurely

It takes time for asphalt to cure and become fully strong. It is possible to distort and harm the surface if large trucks or equipment are placed too soon after installation. It's crucial to give the asphalt time to cure completely before applying heavy loads to it.

Tip: As advised by your contractor, wait until the freshly laid surface has completely dried before putting in a lot of traffic.

Conclusion

You can guarantee a successful asphalt paving operation that produces a strong and long-lasting surface by avoiding these typical blunders. You may obtain a surface that fulfills your needs and endures over time by properly preparing the site, utilizing high-quality materials, and following best practices throughout installation. Your asphalt pavement will work dependably and raise the value of your home with adequate design and attention to detail.

[rosetintedchainsaw]

Jessa's Backstory - Written Segment

Portrait of a Family.

(Part One - Crimson Air)

TW for: Gore, Abuse, Violence, Implied SA, Self Harm, and other heavy topics.

Multiple explosions sounded overhead. Dust and ashes fluttered onto the asphalt, mixing in with the light snow. She kept walking, her dark brown fur coat wrapped tightly around her body as she tucked the bag of groceries close to her torso. Her heart was beating so rapidly, she thought she would faint. Still, she kept walking at a firm and relaxed pace, her heels carefully maneuvering over remains and debris. The only other sounds besides her footsteps on the rather deserted street and the explosions, were the screams. They had been going on all day. She had grown accustomed to them. Or had tricked herself into being accustomed to them. She wasn't sure which. She kept her head low and bent towards the ground, as she kept walking.

A few demons quickly staggered past her, one of them leaning onto the other for support. Their legs had been nearly tattered into shreds by the bombs, and part of their stomach had started to leak out, trailing across the sidewalk. Only a few disoriented mutters escaped their soot-covered lips, as the other demon led them towards the nearest hospital. Probably in vain.

She barely even gave them a glance or nod, continuing to simply walk with her eyes trained ahead, hidden by a pair of shades. She felt she couldn't afford to see any more of it. The attacks.

The Crimson Air period had been going on for so long, she wasn't even really all that sure why it all started anymore. Lower class Demons trying to uprise against the upper classes. It all just seemed to her to just spread more suffering. More and more until one day they'd all just wind up dead.

"Maybe it'd be better that way. Maybe then she wouldn't have to go through with it anymore, maybe she'd be finally safe and-"

Her thoughts were slowly suffocated into a small quiet hum as she left the outskirt streets of Hell, and finally made it to his palace. A few more explosions sounded as she felt the ground underneath her polished black heels vibrate. A few faint screams rang out, but were quickly and effortlessly silenced with yet another explosion.

This time, she saw a faint orange glow flash against the gold metal bars of the front gate of the palace. She let out a brisk huff, and freed her hands from the grocery bag, tucking it between her arm and her hip. She dug around in her pockets until she pulled up a knife. Its golden details were dulled under the bleak white sky. A single ruby rested on the hilt, staring up at her like some sort of awaiting eye. Just waiting.

She quickly pricked the tip of the knife into the pad of her thumb, until a small bead of black blood stained onto the metal blade. She looked back up to the gate, noting the metal lock on the center, chains spread from its sides like wings. She pressed the small pin-prick wound onto the lock, and quickly the enchantment took action. It accepted her blood, and quickly the chains snapped away from the lock, as the gate swung open, allowing her arrival. She took no time rushing past it, as the gate slammed back into place, the chains re-connecting with the lock. She stormed up the front garden, her footsteps heavy against the paved walkway.

She reached the front entrance, two large red doors that rested among black pillars and walls, carved endlessly with his sigil. She felt her teeth grind as she readied the blade again, repeating the process. Ever since the riots had started, he had announced they would be upping security. A part of her silently wished he didn't. That he'd forget, and that someone would just break in, and-

The doors swung open, and she stuffed the knife back into the pocket of her coat and she heaved the grocery bag back into her arms, and stepped inside.

It didn't take long for her to find him in the private kitchen. He stood by the telephone, faced away from her as she laid the bag down onto the sleek black marble counter, and began removing various items from the bag. She knew it was useless to try and talk to him when he was busy with work affairs. It wasn't a good idea at all, honestly. The shortest and simplest way to anger him. But it had to be done.

She hadn't seen her daughter, Zeleria, all day.

With a bottle of his favourite wine in hand, she walked over to him. A peace offering of sorts. It was a pathetic attempt, she knew. But it was all she had. Despite her footsteps calmly paced across the marble floor, she caught her hands shaking, and immediately tried to catch her failing breath.

He had not turned around to see her at all, still entrenched with the conversation on the phone. He nodded a few times, his long jagged rose red hair hiding his dark face.

"There's really no need to panic. Once they get all the riots and protests out of their system, they'll have snuffed themselves out. Exterminating the vermin, if you could put it-

She cleared her throat, her lips pressed tightly together. She had to work up the courage to speak. But she didn't dare show her fear on her face.

He paused. For a single moment, he paused. He didn't move. Just paused. For what felt like a century, he didn't speak. Until he resumed, as if nothing had even happened at all.

"Yes, there'll be much left over for Mammon after everyone's accounts will be voided. I wouldn't worry about him for now, just focus on-

Another clearing of her throat. A daring act. One that she knew, either now or later, would be punished. But she had to know. She hadn't seen her all day, and she had to know.

"Lysandre."

He finally turned around, his expression blank as he stared at her. His fingers tightened around the phone, as his tail began occasionally flicking.

"Where is she?"

He took a few minutes to process her words, as he held the phone away from himself.

"Upstairs, in her room probably. She hasn't been feeling well-

"She wasn't in her room this morning. I couldn't find her, and then I was asked to get food, so I-

"She's a kid, Forsythia. She'll run around, for fuck sake, hold on-" he leaned back into the phone, his patience clearly wearing thin. "I'll be with you in a minute. My apologies."

"Where is she." She demanded, her patience wearing thin as well.

"I said, upstairs, now will you get out of my fucking sight-

Another explosion from outside rattled into the kitchen, the dim lights above flickering. She nervously glanced at them, her thoughts momentarily shaken.

"...The bombs have been going off all day." She then said plainly, setting the bottle of wine right down next to the telephone. Maybe he'd take it and maybe it'd calm his nerves. The only leverage she had.

"Too close for my comfort." He muttered, before giving the demon on the other line a quick and clearly frustrated goodbye before hanging up the phone, slamming it back onto the hook. "Another good reason for her to get shaped up. Quicker she knows what to do, quicker we have another few good people watching our backs."

His words instantly jolted her memory, and a deep, dark despair began to wrap around her heart.

"Look, I still don't think we should-..." She then cut off her own words, once she noticed her husband's face. Staring directly at her, as his eyes narrowed into dark slits.

"...Don't think we should what?" He then asked quickly, taking in a deep inhale as he stood up straight. He was readying himself. She knew his body language all too well.

"...I... still don't think we should..." The more she spoke, and the more she thought about it all, the more anger she felt. The unshakable knowing that truly, neither her or her daughter had any choice in the matter. "...O-offer her up like some sort of piece of meat! Like some sort of prized blue-ribbon livestock at the fair! To just trade her out like an object just to be used up and discarded, It's... I don't think.. it's... not right,-

Before she could continue, a stinging slap was flashed against her cheek, and she was instantly knocked down to the floor. She heard a piece of her horn chip off, and the sunglasses she had tucked in the collar of her coat had spun away, cracked and bent on the glossy marble floor, which reflected her now bruised face.

"End of discussion." Was all he said, his voice firm and cold as ice as he turned back around to the telephone to make another work-related call. His words were muffled and drowned out in her ears, as she staggered up. Her thoughts in a dazed whirl as she stumbled out of the kitchen and into the vast halls of the palace. She kept walking and walking, occasionally taking pauses as her head thumped with pain. But she had to collect herself and carry on. She had to see her.

She made her way to the fourth floor, where her daughter's room was located. The door was left cracked open. She pressed an ear against it, and heard nothing. She took in a deep breath, adjusting her hair and trying somehow to wipe away the purple bruise left on her skin. Before walking in.

Her bed was located in the middle of the room, and there her daughter was. Completely shielded by her blanket, unmoving. She headed over, noting the open storybook laid rested near the edge. The one about the peddler demon, who traveled all over Hell. He was eventually tricked and mauled by a shape shifter demon, who took the form of one of his loved ones. She moved the book aside, and sat down on the bed, looking at the vague shape of her daughter as she slipped a pack of cigarettes from the inside of her now disheveled coat.

"Are you awake?"

The little demon gave a nod, still buried under her blanket.

The mother then placed a cigarette into her mouth, before pulling out her lighter and igniting it. As she took in a drag, she noticed all her daughter's stuffed animals had been turned around, facing away.

Smoke puffed out from her lips as she blinked, looking back down at her kid.

No matter how much she had protested against it all, for so long..

It grew harder and harder to wish for any sort of hope. The constant explosions outside and the stinging mark on her cheek only seemed to cement the undeniable fact. And so, she simply asked a question, trying to move her mind from it.

"Are you feelin' sick...?"

Her daughter shook her head no. Her responses seemed almost automated. Robotic. Too forced to be genuine. She sighed, taking the cigarette into her fingers as she tapped the ashes onto the soft red carpet below.

"...Look, maybe it all won't be so bad." She started, trying to find the words in her fuzzy head. It felt like every time he struck her, she lost one more piece of knowing. Maybe one day he'd strike her to the point she'd never be able to think again. The thought almost comforted her.

"That's just how it is for us ladies, you know? Who knows? Maybe you'll meet some really nice guy, who'll get you away from this ring. Hey! Maybe you'll be given to some charmer from Sloth. If you get down there, then you probably wouldn't even have to do anything. Those guys are too busy wasting into dust to really..."

She noticed the shape under the blanket shift, curling into itself. She sighed again, her lips thinning as the cigarette dwindled in her fingers.

"I'm trying.. I'm... really trying, dear. I've been tryin' to talk to him for a while. I may get him to change his mind. I don't think all this 'war-death' stuff is really any reason to... you know. But hey, maybe we can-

"...Momma...?"

"...Yes?"

"...Why can't.. I have a lock on my door?"

"...Well, you know how upset he gets-"

"I.. can't sleep."

"Are you.. having nightmares? Look, no one is going to break in and hurt us. Your father will.. protect us. You don't need to worry about anyone sneaking into your room. Honestly, I need to have a talk with him about all these riots and stuff. I think it's starting to scare you. You didn't even come say hello to me this morning-"

"...Momma...?"

"Yes?"

"...Do I.. really have to get sold off and married?"

Forsythia sat there for a moment. As much as she tried to cling onto some sliver of hope, it all just seemed to shatter in her hands. And for some reason, that single question only made it worse. She sounded.. so scared. And she wanted to do something. She supposed she had to..

"...We'll.. talk about it more in the morning, okay? And hey! It won't be for a few more good years now. You won't have to worry about any of that silly stuff soon.. Alright?"

She nudged her daughter with her elbow, cracking a weak and earnest smile. But the small demon did not move. She just continued to lay there.

She waited for any sort of response, but was given none. Maybe she had already gone off to sleep. That would be alright.

She gently rose from the bed, grabbing at her shoulder now as it ached. He couldn't keep throwing her around like that. It was starting to last. As she left her daughter's room and gently shut the door behind her, she fiddled with the sleeve of her coat, exposing her wrist under the dim lights in the narrow hallway. She looked at her cigarette, and then pressed it down onto her pale blue skin, speckled with black and purple dots.

She would be alright. She was a tough kid who seemed to be decent at fending for herself.

All would be fine.

[atlurbanist]

Development of Atlanta's Gulch is very exciting but one thing I hope we're being mindful of in the process: this spot is part of the watershed for Proctor Creek. I don't think that gets enough attention.

Stormwater runoff sends pollution from petroleum residue (all parking lots have that) into the creek, complicating longstanding efforts to clean up the water. This has undoubtedly been a problem in the past given the amount of asphalt that has existed in and around the Gulch for decades.

According to the Proctor Creek Watershed Improvement plan from the Atlanta Regional Commission, parking facilities and paved roads contribute "a large amount of runoff to the Proctor Creek impaired stream segment. Anything deposited on these impervious surfaces may enter the creek via the stormwater system."

A stormwater plan is likely required for the Gulch development as it is for all big construction projects. I'd love to see more than the base requirements filled here, though. Go 110 percent and make this a particularly excellent example of sustainable growth.

BTW if you haven't visited the Proctor Creek Greenway near Bank head MARTA Station yet (second image), I highly recommend doing so. It's lovely.

[chemung-valley-curator]

Paved Streets  by Susan Zehnder, Education Director

Driving during the summer can often be frustrating. Sometimes it feels like every road you come across is in the process of being built, or badly needs to be repaired. To add to the frustration, drivers navigating construction zones, summer weather, and road conditions often have a short supply of patience. It’s as if the smell of asphalt goes along with hot air and hot tempers. (READ MORE)

[joyfullightwhispers]

Driveway Cleaning Essentials: The Key Steps to a Pristine Finish

Introduction

Maintaining a clean and well-kept driveway is crucial not just for aesthetic purposes but also for the longevity of your paving materials. A pristine driveway enhances your property’s curb appeal and can even add value to your home. However, many homeowners overlook the importance of regular maintenance, which includes paver cleaning, sealing, and relevelling. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the Driveway Cleaning Essentials: The Key Steps to a Pristine Finish that every homeowner should know.

Driveway Cleaning Essentials: The Key Steps to a Pristine Finish

When it comes to driveway maintenance, focusing on cleanliness is paramount. Not only does a clean driveway improve the overall appearance of your property, but it also prevents damage from mold, mildew, and stains that can accumulate over time. Here’s how you can achieve that pristine finish:

Understanding Your Driveway Material What Types of Driveway Materials Are Common?

Driveways can be made from various materials including asphalt, concrete, pavers, and gravel. Understanding which type you have will guide you in selecting the right cleaning methods and products.

Why Does Material Matter in Driveway Care?

Different materials have unique properties that affect how they should be cleaned and maintained. For instance, pavers require specific techniques such as paver sealing and paver relevelling to keep them in prime condition.

Essential Tools for Driveway Cleaning What Tools Do You Need? Pressure Washer - Ideal for deep cleaning. Broom or Leaf Blower - For debris removal. Stiff Brush - Useful for scrubbing stubborn stains. Cleaning Solutions - Choose non-toxic options when possible. How Do These Tools Enhance Your Cleaning Process?

Using the right tools ensures efficiency and effectiveness in your cleaning efforts. A pressure washer can remove dirt much faster than manual scrubbing alone.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance Why Should You Clean Your Driveway Regularly?

Regular maintenance prevents buildup of grime and extends the life of your driveway surface by mitigating damage caused by weather elements and wear over time.

Steps for Effective Paver Cleaning How Do You Clean Pavers Step-by-Step? Remove all debris using a broom or leaf blower. Use a pressure washer to eliminate dirt. Treat any stains with appropriate cleaning solutions. Rinse thoroughly with water. Understanding Paver Sealing What is Paver Sealing?

Paver sealing involves applying a protective layer over your pavers to prevent stains, enhance color, and prolong their lifespan.

Why is Paver Sealing Necessary?

Without sealing, pavers are susceptible to moss growth and stains which can lead to more extensive repairs down the line.

Choosing a Paver Sealing Contractor How Do You Find the Right Contractor Near Orlando?

Look for reviews online https://aaapaversealing.com/paver-cleaning/ or ask friends for recommendations on reputable contractors specializing in Orlando paver sealing serv

[verooutdoorliving]

Transform Your Outdoor Space with Sebastian Pavers in Vero Beach

Transform Your Outdoor Space with Sebastian Pavers in Vero Beach

Vero Beach, a picturesque coastal city in Florida, is known for its beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant outdoor living culture. For homeowners looking to enhance their outdoor spaces, Sebastian Pavers offers a perfect solution to create stylish, durable, and functional areas. Whether you want to revamp your driveway, patio, walkway, or pool deck, Sebastian Pavers from Vero Outdoor Living can transform your vision into reality. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about Sebastian Pavers, including their benefits, installation process, design ideas, and how they can elevate your outdoor living experience in Vero Beach.

What Are Sebastian Pavers?

Sebastian Pavers are high-quality interlocking paving stones designed to provide both beauty and durability for various outdoor applications. Manufactured with advanced technology and premium materials, these pavers are ideal for creating stunning driveways, patios, walkways, and pool decks that can withstand the test of time and the elements.

Benefits of Sebastian Pavers

Exceptional Durability: Made from high-density concrete or stone, Sebastian Pavers are built to endure heavy traffic, extreme weather conditions, and daily wear and tear. Their robust construction prevents cracking, chipping, and fading, ensuring a long-lasting appearance.

Versatile Design Options: With a wide range of colors, shapes, and sizes, Sebastian Pavers offer immense design flexibility. You can choose from classic brick patterns, contemporary styles, or natural stone looks to match your home’s aesthetic and personal preferences.

Low Maintenance: Unlike traditional concrete or asphalt, Sebastian Pavers require minimal upkeep. Routine cleaning with a mild detergent and occasional sealing are usually enough to keep them looking pristine.

Eco-Friendly: Many Sebastian Pavers are designed with environmental sustainability in mind. Their permeable nature allows rainwater to drain through, reducing runoff and promoting groundwater recharge.

Enhanced Property Value: Investing in high-quality pavers can significantly increase the curb appeal and value of your property. A well-designed outdoor space creates a welcoming atmosphere and can make your home stand out in the real estate market.

Why Choose Sebastian Pavers for Your Vero Beach Home?

Vero Beach’s unique climate and coastal charm make Sebastian Pavers an ideal choice for enhancing outdoor spaces. Here’s why these pavers are particularly well-suited for this region:

Climate Resilience

Vero Beach experiences a subtropical climate with high humidity, frequent rain, and intense sun exposure. Sebastian Pavers are designed to withstand these conditions, maintaining their appearance and structural integrity despite the harsh weather. Their resistance to moisture and temperature fluctuations ensures a long-lasting and reliable surface for your outdoor areas.

Coastal Aesthetic

The natural beauty of Vero Beach’s coastal environment calls for materials that complement its charm. Sebastian Pavers come in various textures and colors that can mimic natural stone or enhance seaside themes. Whether you prefer a classic look or a modern design, there’s a paver style to match the coastal elegance of your property.

Professional Installation

Local expertise in installing Sebastian Pavers ensures that your project is completed to the highest standards. Vero Beach professionals understand the specific soil conditions, drainage requirements, and design preferences unique to the area. Their knowledge ensures a flawless installation that enhances the performance and appearance of your pavers.

Choosing the Right Sebastian Pavers for Your Project

Selecting the perfect Sebastian Pavers for your outdoor project involves considering various factors to ensure you achieve the best results. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make an informed decision:

1. Purpose and Function

Determine the primary use of the area you’re paving. Different applications require specific considerations for durability, slip resistance, and aesthetic appeal:

Driveways: Choose thicker, more robust pavers that can handle the weight of vehicles and daily traffic.

Patios: Opt for pavers that balance style and durability, suitable for foot traffic and outdoor elements.

Walkways: Select pavers with slip-resistant surfaces to ensure safety.

Pool Decks: Consider pavers with textured surfaces to prevent slipping and heat absorption.

2. Design and Style

Consider the overall look you want to achieve. Sebastian Pavers offer a range of styles, including traditional brick, modern concrete, and rustic stone. Think about how the pavers will complement your home’s architecture and landscaping.

Traditional: Classic brick or cobblestone patterns create a timeless appeal.

Modern: Sleek, clean lines and geometric shapes provide a contemporary look.

Rustic: Natural stone or weathered finishes evoke an earthy, organic feel.

3. Color and Texture

The color and texture of the pavers should harmonize with your existing outdoor elements. Light colors can brighten up smaller areas, while darker hues add depth. Textured pavers enhance visual interest and provide practical benefits, such as improved traction.

4. Budget

Establish a realistic budget for your project. While Sebastian Pavers offer excellent value, costs can vary based on the type, size, and complexity of the design. Include additional expenses such as installation, base materials, and maintenance in your budget.

The Installation Process

Proper installation is crucial for the performance and longevity of your Sebastian Pavers. Here’s a step-by-step overview of the typical installation process:

1. Planning and Design

Site Assessment: Evaluate the area where the pavers will be installed. Consider factors such as drainage, grading, and soil type.

Design Layout: Create a detailed design plan, including the pattern, color scheme, and border options. Professional designers can help you make the best choices based on your preferences and site conditions.

2. Preparation

Excavation: Remove existing surface materials and excavate to the required depth. This ensures a stable base for the pavers.

Base Installation: Lay a compacted base layer of gravel or crushed stone. This provides drainage and stability for the pavers.

Edge Restraints: Install edge restraints to keep the pavers in place and prevent shifting.

3. Paver Installation

Laying Pavers: Begin laying the pavers according to the design plan. Use a string line or laser level to ensure straight rows and proper alignment.

Cutting and Fitting: Cut pavers as needed to fit around edges and corners, ensuring a seamless appearance.

4. Finishing Touches

Joint Sand: Fill the joints between the pavers with sand to lock them in place and prevent weed growth.

Compaction: Use a plate compactor to press the pavers into the base and settle the joint sand.

Sealing: Apply a sealant to protect the pavers from stains, moisture, and UV damage.

Design Ideas for Sebastian Pavers

Sebastian Pavers offer endless design possibilities. Here are some creative ideas to inspire your next outdoor project:

1. Elegant Driveways

Create a grand entrance with a stylish paver driveway. Consider using a combination of colors and patterns to add visual interest and enhance the curb appeal of your home.

2. Charming Patios

Design a cozy outdoor living space with a paver patio. Add comfortable seating, outdoor lighting, and landscaping to create a perfect spot for entertaining and relaxation.

3. Inviting Walkways

Enhance the beauty of your garden or yard with a charming paver walkway. Use curves and borders to create a visually appealing path that guides visitors through your outdoor space.

4. Sophisticated Pool Decks

Transform your pool area with elegant paver decking. Choose slip-resistant pavers in light colors to keep the surface cool and safe for swimmers.

5. Unique Fire Pits

Incorporate a custom paver fire pit into your patio or garden design. This focal point provides warmth and ambiance for outdoor gatherings and adds a touch of sophistication.

Maintenance and Care

To keep your Sebastian Pavers looking their best, regular maintenance is essential. Follow these tips for optimal care:

1. Cleaning

Routine Cleaning: Sweep the surface regularly to remove debris and prevent staining.

Deep Cleaning: Use a mild detergent and a pressure washer to clean stubborn stains and dirt. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the pavers.

2. Sealing

Periodic Sealing: Apply a sealant every 1-3 years to protect the pavers from stains and weathering. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for application.

3. Repairs

Repairing Cracks: Replace any damaged or cracked pavers promptly to prevent further issues. Remove the damaged paver, replace the base if necessary, and install a new paver.

4. Weed Control

Preventing Weeds: Use a weed barrier fabric under the base layer to reduce weed growth. Regularly remove any weeds that appear between the pavers.

Vero Outdoor Living: The Best Resource for Sebastian Pavers in Vero Beach

For homeowners in Vero Beach, Vero Outdoor Living is the premier resource for Sebastian Pavers and other outdoor living solutions. Here’s why Vero Outdoor Living stands out:

Expertise and Experience

Vero Outdoor Living specializes in transforming outdoor spaces with high-quality pavers and expert installation. Their team of professionals has extensive experience working with Sebastian Pavers and understands the specific needs of Vero Beach homeowners.

Customized Solutions

Vero Outdoor Living offers personalized design solutions to match your vision and lifestyle. From selecting the perfect pavers to creating detailed design plans, their team works closely with

[mariacallous]

Heading west from Baghdad, the capital’s bumpy roads turn into a well-lit, smoothly paved three-lane highway rarely seen in Iraq. Every so often, billboards adorned with slick pictures of Mohammed al-Halbousi credit Iraq’s recently deposed speaker of parliament with the reconstruction of Anbar, his home province.

“Halbousi restored the prestige of the Sunnis and of the province,” said Hamed Albu Alwan, a tribal elder who supports him. Outside the entrance to his spacious diwan (where tribal gatherings take place) in Anbar’s capital, Ramadi, workers toiled away in the midday sun as they covered the road with a fresh layer of shiny asphalt. “If we had three to four leaders like him, Iraq could become a normal country again,” the sheikh said.

Anbar saw some of the fiercest fighting in the wake of the 2003 U.S. invasion and again a decade later, when the war against the Islamic State ravaged its cities. But in contrast to other Sunni areas that suffered a similar fate, Iraq’s westernmost province has seen remarkable development in recent years. This reconstruction boom, some of it financed by the U.S. government as part of a U.N. reconstruction program, has coincided with the extraordinary ascent of the most powerful Sunni politician since Saddam Hussein’s overthrow.

Within just four years of entering politics in 2014, the now 42-year-old Halbousi rose from a little-known businessman to speaker of parliament, the most senior Sunni post in Shiite-majority Iraq. Halbousi held that position since 2018 until recently, making him the only Iraqi politician to serve more than one term since the 2003 U.S.-led invasion. But his success in consolidating power has fomented a backlash among Sunnis and Shiites alike.

Last Tuesday, Iraq’s federal court issued a ruling terminating Halbousi’s membership of parliament, the culmination of months of power struggle between the speaker and a growing lineup of rivals. Halbousi was found guilty of forgery in a case filed by former member of parliament Laith al-Dulaimi, who accused Halbousi of using a fake resignation letter to blackmail him.

“He has begun to enslave the MPs,” Laith al-Dulaimi told Foreign Policy when he filed the case in early 2023. Dulaimi said that ahead of the 2021 parliamentary election, Halbousi forced him and others to sign blank letters, which he used when they deviated from the party line. “He targets any voice that challenges him. All the authority, all the money must be for him only.” In a statement, Halbousi’s party alleged political targeting and called the court decision a “flagrant violation of the constitution.”

The court case was just one of several, simultaneous efforts to depose Halbousi amid a myriad of grievances documented by Foreign Policy. In wide-ranging interviews, seven tribal leaders, nine politicians, eight officials and three members of civil society paint a picture of pervasive state capture at the hands of a politician whom almost all of the interviewees allege has built a political and economic empire through embezzlement of public funds and the use of force.

Halbousi stands accused of throwing rivals into jail, punishing critics with arrest warrants under Iraq’s sweeping anti-defamation laws, and disqualifying rivals from elections by abusing harsh de-Baathification provisions that forbid members of the former regime from participating in the political process, according to interviews and documents seen by Foreign Policy. Halbousi and his office have not replied to repeated requests for interviews.

Taken individually, none of the tactics in Halbousi’s arsenal are particularly unusual. To the contrary, they largely follow a well-worn playbook that has become the defining legacy of the U.S.-led invasion. Iraq is one of the world’s most corrupt nations, where officials tend to exploit their positions for the sake of self-enrichment and to build patronage networks that will entrench them in the halls of power. But few Iraqi politicians, let alone a Sunni one, have mastered state capture quite as successfully.

Even though the role of the speaker is to head the parliament, Halbousi remained the de facto executive authority in Anbar long after he left his previous post as governor and has managed to establish what some describe as one-party rule in the province, with government posts, services, and success in elections contingent on support for his Progress Party.

“He intervenes in the process of replacing and changing security or administrative leaders and in the mechanisms of disbursing the budget and its projects,” said Salim al-Jabouri, a senior Sunni politician who served as speaker before Halbousi.

Interviewees, some of whom spoke on condition of anonymity, described three major alleged corruption schemes. Halbousi and his lieutenants are said to have monopolized the allocation of government contracts, channeling them to companies owned by relatives or loyalists in return for kickbacks. They also stand accused of diverting funds intended for beneficiaries of social security schemes, such as pensioners or victims of Islamic State, and illegally selling off public land to private investors.

According to the majority of interviewees, the Reconstruction Fund for Areas Affected by Terrorist Operations, worth around $800 million, appears to have been used to fuel Halbousi’s patronage network. “The fund is controlled by the speaker of parliament, Mohammed Al-Halbousi,” said an employee who spoke on condition of anonymity in fear of reprisals. “He has turned the fund into a way to buy the loyalty of the security forces. He gives them cars so he can call them and say, arrest this guy or that guy.”

Foreign Policy has reviewed documents that show the allocation of $4.6 million for the provision of vehicles to local security and intelligence organs. (Including $3.1 million for Anbar’s intelligence service and $1.5 million for Anbar’s branch of national security agency, despite the fact that money from the reconstruction fund is meant for the rebuilding of houses, bridges, and schools.)

Since he took power in October last year, Prime Minister Mohammed al-Sudani has begun to claw back Halbousi’s executive powers by dismissing his loyalists and investigating corruption allegations in Anbar. In June, al-Sudani dismissed the reconstruction fund’s manager due to allegations of fraud and corruption. Several low-level government officials, who have been taken into custody as part of a separate investigation into allegations of illegal sale of land in Anbar, reportedly confessed they were acting at Halbousi’s behest, according to a local sheikh and an official who spoke with the investigators.

An engineer by training and a former U.S. contractor, Halbousi is part of a new generation of Sunni leaders who built their political base with money. What has set him apart from the rest of the pack is his intellect, drive, and ability to strike deals at the right time. He took advantage of a series of crises that have buffeted Iraq over the recent decade, including the war with the Islamic State, the October 2019 demonstrations, and the U.S.-Iran tensions that turned Iraq into a battleground for a global power struggle.

When he first ran for parliament in 2014, the Sunni political establishment was in disarray, its constituents displaced, its land ravaged by war. Halbousi—a young, liberal, up-and-coming politician—successfully positioned himself as an antidote to Anbar’s downfall.

In 2017, he secured the support of Anbar’s provincial council and was appointed governor. The completion of hundreds of U.N. projects came in handy, allowing Halbousi to advertise himself as the man who could get things done. “He showed up just in time to cut the ribbon,” said one former governor, adding that many of the projects had kicked off well before Halbousi’s tenure.

Halbousi’s well-advertised though short stint as governor (he was in power only for a year) served him well as campaigning kicked off for the 2018 parliamentary election. He founded his own party, won six out of 329 seats and, facing some opposition among Sunnis, successfully courted the Shiite leaders who had emerged victors from the battlefield with the Islamic State to win the speakership.

“There was a leadership vacuum among the Sunnis. The Shia started build what they need. They chose the one who is weak, who will be close to them, the one who has no cause,” said a former speaker of Iraq’s parliament, who wished to remain anonymous.

In an anecdote that is often told during late-evening conversations at the residences of senior politicians to illustrate Shiite efforts to find a Sunni ally to do their bidding, Halbousi allegedly pledged support to the late paramilitary leader Abu Mahdi al-Mohandis and Iranian Gen. Qassem Suleimani—both of whom were killed two years later in a U.S. drone strike near Baghdad airport. In return for the speakership, Halbousi reportedly vowed to support the institutionalization of the paramilitaries, called the Popular Mobilization Forces, and safeguard their strategic presence in Sunni areas where they had fought the Islamic State.

Shortly after Halbousi assumed his new role as speaker, changing winds once again strengthened his hand. Mass protests erupted in 2019 across Iraq’s south, rattling the foundations of the post-2003 political order in what became known as the October Revolution. Throngs of Shiite youths took to the streets, demanding an end to corruption and the downfall of the ruling elite. While Shiite politicians focused on crushing the movement, Halbousi quietly broadened his remit, aided by the weakness of two successive governments that permitted encroachment on executive powers.

During Prime Minister Mustafa al-Kadhimi’s administration in particular, Halbousi extended his reach deep into the executive branch. Kadhimi gave Halbousi free rein to run affairs in Sunni areas, including the ability to control appointments to senior security and government posts in Anbar, such as the head of the police or the regional joint operations command, according to numerous sources.

“He was stronger than the Prime Minister,” said Khalid al-Obaidi, who served as Iraq’s defense minister between 2014 and 2016. “Anything Halbousi wanted to implement in Sunni governorates was implemented without Kadhimi’s interference.”

The more power that Halbousi consolidated, the more he deviated from customary principles of power sharing that govern Iraq and Anbar’s tribal society. “He uses money and power. You’re either with him or against him, there’s no middle ground for solutions,” said Sattar al-Jumeili, the leader of the Jumeili tribe, which used to constitute the majority of the local council in Halbousi’s hometown of Garmah before he oversaw a vote to dissolve the councils in 2019.

Halbousi hails from a relatively insignificant tribe in Anbar, an anomaly that he has skillfully overcome by striking deals with Shiite politicians and by courting Gulf countries that see him as a useful partner to further their geopolitical interests. “The man is reliable, and I believe there’s consensus on this in the region,” said one Arab diplomat in Baghdad, who spoke on condition of anonymity.

At home, however, many Sunnis feel that Halbousi has sold their cause for the sake of remaining in power. Despite his long tenure as the head of the legislature, critics say he has not tackled a list of long-running Sunni grievances, such as the abolition of the de-Baathification process and better representation of Sunnis in government and the security apparatus. “He has failed to lead the Sunnis,” said the former speaker of parliament. “He’s behaving like a party boss, not like a speaker.”

Senior Sunni politicians lament that under Halbousi’s leadership, the country’s legislative branch had become less effective, thus eroding the foundations of Iraq’s fragile democracy. “It’s not in our interest for Halbousi to represent the Iraqi parliament. Right now, parliament has no value,” said al-Obaidi, who currently serves on the parliament’s security and defense committee. “The parliament committees are all idle,” he said, adding that their heads have been chosen based on loyalty rather than competence. Two former speakers agreed that the parliament isn’t functioning.

At the beginning of this year, a campaign to unseat Halbousi started to gain momentum in Anbar. On a Friday in May, thousands of men gathered on a sprawling, dusty field near Fallujah to attend a rally organized by Halbousi’s opponents. The so-called United Anbar alliance is spearheaded by a motley of former Sunni governors, ministers, and tribal leaders, and it’s reportedly backed by Shiite politicians who sought to weaken Halbousi’s base in his home province.

Standing atop a stage, a number of officials took turns addressing the crowd. “It is the mistake of those who think that they are the master of Fallujah,” said Jamal al-Karbouli, the leader of the alliance, drawing a parallel between Halbousi’s rule and the U.S. occupation, which the city famously resisted. “We are here today to correct the course and launch a project to restore the rights of Fallujah.”

Karbouli, a political and business heavyweight, helped Halbousi get a foothold in politics back in 2014, only to watch his protégé rebel against him. In 2021, Karbouli was arrested and tortured by an anti-corruption squad used by Kadhimi’s government to go after political opponents. Karbouli and others believe the arrest happened on Halbousi’s orders.

“They disappeared me for five months, with Kadhimi’s agreement, so that Halbousi could win,” Karbouli told Foreign Policy. Karbouli was released without charges shortly after that year’s parliamentary elections.

Karbouli’s arrest is just one example of what some describe as a systemic campaign to crush opposition that has earned Halbousi monikers such as “dictator” or “the new Saddam.” Activists and civilians in Anbar have faced increased intimidation and threats for criticizing authorities on social media. Tribal sheikhs who complained about land grabs or marginalization were summoned by the police chief or charged under archaic Baath-era defamation laws.

But Halbousi’s eventual downfall wasn’t the product of popular discontent in his home province or among Iraq’s Sunnis. In a move that would have sidelined his former Shiite backers, Halbousi agreed in 2021 to form a majority government with populist Shiite cleric Muqtada al-Sadr. The alliance was seen as an unprecedented effort by a Sunni to usurp Shiite majority rule by fomenting intra-Shiite rivalries.

Months of political deadlock were ultimately settled through a brief but violent confrontation between rival Shiite factions, which left Sadr defeated and shut out of the political process. Halbousi quickly pivoted back to the Coordination Framework, the Shiite alliance that then formed the ruling coalition. A year on, Halbousi’s turncoat brand of politics appears to have caught up with him.

“He crossed a red line,” said the Arab diplomat. “It was the first time a Sunni tried to divide the Shia. This has not been forgotten.”

[soft-humming-moon]

THE SUMMARY OF DANI TORIMOSA

Work was exhausting. Every weekday starts before the sun rises and ends just as the natural light of the world fades upon the city. Most of my hours bleed away within the confines of a wholesale warehouse where I move boxes and direct customers and retailers alike. Nothing new happens within the scaffold-like walls, and sometimes I like it this way.

Personally, there’s a sort of satisfaction I get from the long hours. While my lineage prides itself on the inheritance of their hardly-working ancestors, I’ve broken that in a plea for satisfaction. Don’t get me wrong—I haven’t shunned myself from their generosity. I’d much rather gather my worth as a man by my own hands than what was provided to me. However, my name, Danilo, remains a part of me granted by my heritage.

Normal—love this town. Everyone here prides themselves on the extraordinary fact that nothing differs in this town. Once, this town was named Celeste—based on the founder of the city. Of course, this recently changed in favor of a surprisingly active tourism scene. Traps and attractions all surrounding the novelty of normality sell themselves as a getaway to the towns around them. I mean, I can’t blame them. Where else would I go to get away from it all when there’s a federal-enforced barricade around the Penumbran Strip.

The roads are packed most of the time. I remember nearly fifteen years ago when the roads were newly paved with asphalt. The procedure was slow and methodical. My father once told me about a time in the town’s history when dirt roads snaked through the town to small grocery stores and underfunded amenities. Now, this place is different. Sometimes I envy my father for living in his time. Yet, it’s hard to place if my envy is on a cause of these roads or for something greater.

I hear an onslaught of chatter among coworkers and customers alike in my hours. Some customers drive all the way to Normal due to the price of the goods. Why spend your money in a grocery store barely surviving against the town’s mandated horror than to spend it in bulk in a town known for its relative paradise? This process of thought feels rational, yet I can’t help but shake the thought of inevitable instability. At what point will this town remain as the only habitable location?

I can relate to the pride the residents share with this town. Imagine waking up one day and learning the rest of the now-called “Strip” was affected with this mysterious affliction—and you weren’t. You would assume you just won the lottery. Fate and divine alike marked an unfathomable amount of men to a newly created Hell in America and here you are—a blindspot in its wrath. At the end of the day, all of this clamoring reduces itself to a game of superiority. “Fate favors the wealthy”; a phrase which many men place upon this town. God bless it.

This town has yet to be hit by the suburban plague. The lack of an infrastructure and a desire has left most of the towns within the strip as immune. Yet, plagues mutate. Idle conversations and local news segments discuss the benefit of suburban neighborhoods. We have the budget—they state—we can support a project like this. I can’t wait to imagine how they pull it off.

In the meantime, I’ll spend the foreseeable future in my small one-story house nestled in the haphazard sprawl of individualized homes. The exterior is nothing to write home about—bland colored walls with windows closed off from the inside. A mailbox awaits at the edge of the concrete driveway, leading to a garage where I park my two-seater car within the protection of the elements. Once I shade my only vehicle within the garage, the bulky, metallic door slides down to hide it away from the sins of the world.

Waiting in the small fridge next to the entrance to my house is a set of carbonated beverages ready to grab from a brightly-colored box. With my canned drink in hand, I snap open the thin cover to release a swarm of bubbles to the top of my drink. I wasn’t expecting much to change with the house—why should it? But, there’s always a nagging feeling that something should change. The same routine of unwinding from a long day at work.

Yet, nothing would change. The house remains in one piece. I can hear the distant noise of the television’s broadcast from the living room all the way from the exit from the garage. If there’s any type of noise in the house, then my roommate, Dani, is asleep. The inverse to this observation is true, as well. With this information, you can infer how unsurprised I was when I found her asleep on the couch.

It’s hard to summarize who Dani is through a brief synopsis. Firstly, she’s my roommate. The summary could end there. However, there’s a lot more to her that provokes some further explanation. The reason she’s my roommate is through the efforts of my cousin, Laque. Those two have been friends ever since elementary school; they’ve been through thick and thin. When he proposed the idea to me, I never really understood where he was getting at. Out of all of the people, why me? Why not let her live in the mansion if you believe it so?

Of course, this was Laque. Sometimes, he has a hunch on certain ideas and insists it’ll work out in the end. I don’t think I’ve seen a premonition of his that hasn’t worked well. That, or he really wanted to see us get along well because of our similar names.

Secondly, Dani has an unusual connection to everything outside of this town. She’s developed a name for herself as a “persona”. Which, subjectively, I don’t particularly care about. If anything, I’m a little envious on how her prospects online pays better than my grueling full-time job. At some points, she’s offered to cover some of my expenses so I can work a part-time job. I’ve declined this, of course. It feels like she’s a projection of my family—some distant relative that’s still influenced by their arcane touch.

Thirdly, she has no sense of fashion or anything beyond basic hygiene. Thankfully, she showers often enough. From what I’ve last checked, her pointed teeth are whiter than my own. Her dirtied brown hair throws itself into a cacophony of shapes, yet it all remains unnaturally curly. All of her clothes are a mixture of white t-shirts, some sweatpants and an occasional jacket or two. From her minimalist wardrobe, there’s this style to her that would allow her to fit in to the slums of a metropolitan city.

Her favorite shirts—above all—are esoteric in-jokes involving unfathomable words. She tells me they’re all designed by her friends. It’s nice—I adore the charm—but it feels too “avant-garde” for me. Most of these shirts are covered by an orange hoodie whenever she goes outside, so I don’t believe most of the town sees the shirt’s displays.

Fourthly—and most distressing—Dani’s very touchy. If there was any indication of heritage, it would be her nonverbal body language. She always reaches over for hugs when she’s happy. She always wants a high-five for something that excites her. It’s strange, really. I’ve hailed from a family where contact between each other was kept for situations where it couldn’t be avoided. With her, it’s a completely different approach.

Don’t get me wrong, I don’t hate how she displays herself. It’s always an aspect of her that catches me off guard. Over the time we’ve spent together as roommates, we’ve kind of bonded together more of friends if anything. She always indulges about her life with me—what she does and the history behind it all. Admittedly, I don’t have much to share back. It’s nice to sit down and listen, though. I’ve grown to enjoy the simple act of mildly caring for her. Not in a familial way, but something that draws compassion from somewhere I never knew was there to begin with.

When she first moved in, I was a little concerned with the adamant usage of blackout curtains. Every window in the house has a set of its own, and she always draws them shut around 4 pm. She told me I could open them whenever I wanted, but she couldn’t be in the same room.

Over the years, these little things compounded on themselves in a noticeable pattern. The next idea that struck me odd was her sharp teeth. Once, we were both in the bathroom cleaning it out and she briefly stopped to check her teeth in the mirror. At the time, I didn’t think much of it. Though this small detail slightly compounded.

Eventually, I realized how much she cared about eating meat. Dani had these specific preferences towards individualized brands, and there’d never be a deficit of any sort no matter the time of day. Alongside this, she always sleeps in her bed in a curled-up position. Obviously, the television inside her room would play a documentary of various subjects to keep her asleep.

It all compounded—the distaste for the night, the limited social gatherings, among others. Personally, I didn’t care. I’d be an ass of a person if I disliked how a functional adult lived their life. Over the months, I’ve debated with myself if I should even confront her about it. Especially now, she was very secretive about her external life. In contrast to her tendency to divulge every last detail of herself, it was the complete opposite when she first moved in.

One night, while we were both situated on the couch in the living room, I found myself unable to keep my eyes open while watching a familiar rerun of one of our favorite cartoons. As I sat myself up from the couch and yawned, I could hear Dani stuttering with her words for a little bit before sitting me down.

She disclosed the fact that she’s been meaning to tell me something for months. Dani planned out all of the reactions to what she was about to say—with her tidied bags, I admittedly thought she was going to move out soon and this was the heads up. But, she would bring up a question which completely blindsided me, “Do you know how each town has its own curse?”

I remember how puzzled I was at the question. Over the next minute, I thought of all of the curses each town had and how our town—Normal—was devoid of it. Within her shaking body and pre-planned words, Dani spoke about how she was the curse and how no one else in the town ever knew about it. The sharp teeth, hatred for the night, the fixation on meat—I was surprised how I didn’t catch on earlier. Fifthly, she was a werewolf.

In the moment, the information was a lot for me to process. While it had certainly replaced my views on this town and its stature, it would slowly dawn on me how significant the concealment of her secret would be. What if the town knew? They’d certainly ostracize her. Or worse, kill her. The damage she could cause on the town’s reputation was a palpable feeling, and it was clearly something on her mind behind her warm tears.

I couldn’t find myself sleeping that night. The next morning, I crammed as many caffeinated beverages within my system as my body could allow. But, throughout the night, I stayed awake to comfort Dani. With a blanket wrapped around her body and a box of tissues nearby, I could only assume this was what Laque meant when he wanted us to live together.

[aonoexpat]

15-09-2023

The rest of the road to Ōtepoti was pretty, it was lovely to see the sun and drive along the coast with some background music. When I got to the city I tried to get some help with my gas cooker, but everybody I asked said they had no clue what was wrong with it, and sent me along to the next person. Finally somebody determined that the pressure in my gas bottle was too high, and let some of it out, which we both hoped would help. Spoiler alert: it did not ☹️ Luckily I wasn't going to need it for a while, because I had some leftovers to eat, and I was going to spend ten days house and puppy sitting for somebody a little ways North of Ōtepoti, where I'd have access to a proper stove. I was really excited about this!

I spent a day exploring Ōtepoti, and felt oddly at home there. People, again, are super kind there. The city was founded by the Scottish apparently (hence the English name Dunedin), which might explain why it felt familiar.

It has a slightly more European layout, which, legend has it, was designed with English (flat) landscapes in mind. This has resulted in Ōtepoti holding the record for the world's steepest street, because the landscape here is, in fact, not flat. It's called Baldwin street, and is a real challenge to walk up. I wasn't going to subject Elrond to that kind of an incline, there's even a sign at the bottom stating 'not suitable for campervans'. I met some other tourists there and we all marveled at Baldwin street together, and took photos for each other, which was a very wholesome experience :)

My mom and I did a quick deep dive into this street's wiki, and here's some fun facts:

At its maximum, the slope is about 1:2.86 (19° or 35%);

An 11-year-old boy pogo-stick-ed up the street in 10 minutes to raise money for the Ronald McDonald House, and got a plaque for it at the top;

When Lime rental scooters were introduced to the city, the mayor said he thought he could trust people not to ride them down Baldwin street, and within a week somebody had done it;

Less fun fact: a student tried to ride down the street inside a wheelie bin and didn't survive the ordeal 😬

Part of the street is paved with concrete, because at this slope asphalt, when heated by the sun for too long, would just droop down the street;

They installed a water fountain at the top, and had to include a little stepping stone for a young boy that couldn't reach it:

In the evening I went to the local observatory, where some really kind people had set up telescopes for the public to freely use to see the blue supermoon! It was inspiring to see how many parents with children came out to have a look, and enjoy the fun facts the staff were sharing. I'm pretty proud of the pictures I managed to take through the eyepiece:

After exploring the city, I went to meet the person whose house and dog I would be looking after for the next little while. He has a small plot of land up in the hills with 17 chickens and a tiny house, that he is still very much working on. It was a bit less finished than I had expected it to be, though. The "power" that he had said would be there was a little black box, its power cord coming in through a (thereby perpetually impossible to close) window, only putting out 12V. The "shower" he had said he would install was a loose shower head that I had to fish out of the mud, and couldn't reach the controls for from the actual shower cabin itself, that used LPG to heat up water from a 20L tank (not enough for nice comfy showers for TEN DAYS), and in the process of hooking that up he had created a gas leak that I didn't discover for another day and a half (super safe situation 👍 /s). The dog required a lot more attention than the owner had let on, didn't behave like he had said he would (as in actively squeezed himself through that one open window and knocked over everything in his path when I tried to go to the shops), and there was nothing to clean the (non-level, btw) floor with when the dog knocked over his entire water bowl. The drinking water felt unsafe to me due to algae growing inside the tanks, there was mould on the curtains, the unfinished chicken wire was painful to maneuver around, and there was little to no light at night which resulted in me burning my hand when trying to make a hot water bottle. This all coincided with me getting uterus-punished for days on end and I can tell you, only having access to ✨bushes✨ or a compost toilet in a broken shed outside and no running water is not ideal when going through that. I thought I was going to have a great time, a comfortable little vacation from my vacation, but it ended up being one of the most stressful times on this whole trip so far, and the owner was completely unreachable throughout all of it. The only upside was that the place was isolated enough for nobody to hear my frustrated screams 🥲 That, and the Wi-Fi, which was pretty fast and finally allowed me to have some video calls with home again. And when the place wasn't covered in clouds, the views could be pretty nice!

When it was time to leave, I was overjoyed to be back on my own. I had to give up on my broken little gas cooker, and found a second hand one online that I went to pick up in town. It works like a charm, and cooking has become a fun activity once again! I've spent the last few days trying to make up for lost relaxation time, chilling in the botanic garden and on the beach:

I've also found out that reddit is quite a good place to get in touch with locals, and I've been meeting up with some of them to get a drink and finally have a real-life conversation with another human being again. I had really missed that! Chatting about my adventures helped me see them for what they were again: adventures, memories and stories that I am still actively living.

I'll likely be hanging around the city for another week or so, because I have some appointments with tattoo artists to see if I can get something done 🙂

After that my path is still a bit unclear. I found that after I'd passed the 6-month mark, my mind has been pretty fixated on how I'm going to get back home, and it made me lose track of how much time I actually still have left here. It's made me realise that going back to work for a little bit might not be such a waste, so there's a solid chance I'll be spending two months working in a vineyard soon. It's also made me wonder if I really want to milk my visa to its maximum and stay until the end of January 2024, or if I would like to just go home a bit sooner. On the one hand I'm really quite eager to return to the familiarity of Europe, and all my loved ones there. I'm tired of being on the move, of being alone, of living in a car. But then, on the other hand, I can have one good day here and realise how extremely lucky I am to have this chance, and I'm not ready to leave it all behind just yet. Yesterday I went for a lovely walk on the beach and climbed a rock, and really felt like I was in a good flow again. I dearly miss all the wonderful people back home, but I think I'll end up sticking around as long as I can, while I still can ❤️

My last few days have felt much more upbeat again, I think partly because the sun is coming out more and more and I can really feel spring itching to break through. Though at the moment I'm writing this, I'm trapped in the car by strong winds and cold rain! Luckily there aren't a lot of people around, so I'm playing these three songs on repeat and singing along at the top of my lungs to keep my spirits up 🎧

[botanyone]

You dont have to lose pavements to grow trees in cities

You don’t have to lose pavements to grow trees in cities https://ift.tt/JYseDm6 A recent study by Arianna Grassi and colleagues, published in Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, investigated the impact of different types of soil sealing on the communities of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi colonising the roots of two shade trees commonly found in urban areas: Celtis australis and Fraxinus ornus. The researchers found that impermeable pavements, such as monolithic asphalt, caused shifts in the composition of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities associated with the roots of these trees and impacted the percentage of mycorrhizal root length. The research could help protect trees in urban environments. The soil beneath our feet is home to a vast and intricate web of organisms, including arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), which form a symbiotic relationship with plant roots. These fungi play a crucial role in plant nutrition and health, enhancing their ability to absorb nutrients and water from the soil. Unfortunately, urbanisation and impermeable pavement materials have led to soil sealing, disrupting this vital ecosystem. In their article, Grassi and colleagues cite research showing that Tilia, Linden or Lime trees suffer in areas with low fungal diversity. The authors state: “To the best of our knowledge, no information is available about the effects of pavements suitable for water sensitive urban designs, such as permeable and porous pavements, on AMF communities actually colonizing the roots of shade trees.” Grassi and colleagues tackled the problem by examining the roots of European Hackberry and South European Flowering Ash growing in Vertemate con Minoprio, a little way north of Milan in Italy. The trees were planted in 2012, and in 2020, the pavements over the trees were removed. That allowed the biologists to take root samples from the trees and see what fungi had colonised them. Grassi and colleagues observed a fungi community similar to the fungi in the unpaved soil when the root zone was covered with permeable pavements. This provides valuable information that can be used to reduce the disturbance caused by specific types of soil sealing on AMF symbionts, ultimately benefiting urban tree health. The study identified 45 different types of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, with Sclerocystis and Septoglomus as the most abundant phylotypes, accounting for 84% of the genetic sequences revealed. The predominance of Sclerocystis species in the roots of both tree species under impermeable pavements indicated their high and unexpected tolerance towards harsh environmental conditions. These species could be used as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal inocula. Inoculating the soil with these fungi, specifically selected for their proven resilience in paved sites, would allow planners to exploit their ability to boost biogeochemical processes fundamental for energy fluxes and plant nutrition and health. By revealing how different pavements impact the fungi that symbiotically nourish trees, this study provides guidance for creating urban infrastructure that fosters tree health and longevity. Permeable pavements, in particular, could help sustain diverse, robust fungal communities essential for supporting trees in the often challenging conditions of cities. With more trees, cities can enjoy cooling, pollution reduction, and other benefits these fungi-tree partnerships provide.  READ THE ARTICLE Grassi, A., Pagliarani, I., Cristani, C., Palla, M., Fini, A., Comin, S., Frangi, P., Giovannetti, M., Turrini, A. and Agnolucci, M. (2023) “Effects of pavements on diversity and activity of mycorrhizal symbionts associated with urban trees,” Urban Forestry & Urban Greening, 83(127916), p. 127916. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ufug.2023.127916. The post You don’t have to lose pavements to grow trees in cities appeared first on Botany One. via Botany One https://botany.one/ April 13, 2023 at 06:19PM

[beardedmrbean]

Finland's outgoing Prime Minister Sanna Marin (SDP) announced her divorce this week with her long-time partner Marcus Räikkönen as she prepares to leave office once her caretaker government is replaced.

The divorce announcement fuelled further speculation on Marin's political future, especially in Brussels.

Tabloid Iltalehti (siirryt toiseen palveluun) interviewed a few of Finland's Members of European Parliament (MEPs) on the future political prospects for Finland's outgoing premier.

If a Finnish politician with a rock-star reputation were interested in an EU career, they would probably be entered into next year's European elections, Finnish MEPs unanimously told Iltalehti.

It has already been reported that European Parliament group the Progressive Alliance of Socialists and Democrats in Europe (S&D) would like Marin to be their front-runner for the 2024 European Parliament elections.

Iltalehti added that the group was probing Marin to become President of the European Commission, which is considered the most important post in the EU. MEP Miia-Petra Kumpula-Natri (SDP) confirmed that there is buzz in Brussels surrounding Marin.

"Yes, it is talked about here, more than in Finland," said Marin's fellow social democrat MEP Miia-Petra Kumpula-Natri.

While other MEPs were of the opinion that Marin was a likely option to become the S&D spitzenkandidat —- a term used for a European party's top candidate for the presidency of the European Commission —- Pirkko Ruohonen-Lerner of the Finns Party noted that nothing was yet set in stone.

"There was talk in Finland that [former PM Alexander] Stubb was going to be the European People's Party's top candidate, but what happened?" Ruohonen-Lerner noted.

Esplanade paved

Newspaper Helsingin Sanomat (siirryt toiseen palveluun) reported on the paving over of a historic section of cobblestoned street on the southern side of Helsinki's Esplanade Park on Thursday.

The process involved adding a layer of asphalt over the cobblestones, followed by a layer of flat stone tiles.

This will turn the second lane of the street into space for a bike lane as well as parking for bicycles and electric scooters.

The move sparked outrage from Twitter, with users questioning why the city was covering up such a noteworthy portion of the cityscape.

The pavement is historically notable, Helsinki's Urban Environment Department said on Wednesday.

The solution has been chosen so that the street can be restored to its original state with the added layers removed.

Population drop

Ilta-Sanomat (siirryt toiseen palveluun) reported that Finland's population dipped by 2,000 between Wednesday and Thursday.

However, the paper added that it was not due to death or sudden emigration, but rather an update to the population information system.

The Digital and Population Data Services Agency (DVV) said persons who have been unaccounted for more than two years were removed from Finland's population registry.

In practice, it concerns individuals who have moved out of Finland but have not filed an emigration notification.

A similar change to the Population Information System was last made in May 2020.

The population of Finland was 5,583,965 people on Thursday morning, according to DVV's website.

[thegoldenreport]

DEEP BLUE

Sunny Driver works for the government.

Legally, that is all we can say about the nature of her job. But everything contained within this article is common knowledge anyway. Hiding it would be a disservice to the cause. We’re going speak about it openly. 

Anomalies exist. There are people tasked with discovering and containing said anomalies. Sunny is one of those people.

She came to us with a story regarding her work and the sudden appearance of lake.

…

Belcot is the picture of modern suburbia, if you’ve never been. Rows of copycat houses and the odd tree every thirty feet. Asphalt roads connect you everywhere, whether to your neighbor’s house or the grocery store or the family-owned bowling alley. There isn’t much room for nature to just…do it’s thing.

I got the call around 2:43 pm on a Thursday. Just finished up lunch at Riley’s and was getting situated in my car. Something bout a secret lake appearing smack dab in the middle of town. I immediately wondered about pocket dimensions or parallel realities. How much was disrupted? Had anyone been displaced? Either way it wasn’t something you mess with.

So I rushed to the location pinged on my phone. Paved road turned to dirt as I drove through thick trees. And soon, I passed a neat little sign, carved in stone.

WELCOME TO TUNNEL LAKE

I pulled into the parking lot and walked along the wooden fence to a sandy path. And at the end, there I saw it. That enigma of a lake. Calm. Pristine. A brilliant cerulean so blue it almost looked fake. And in the middle, a small cone shaped island blanketed in lime green moss. 

The scene in sunlight made my eyes hurt. I blinked twice to readjust. That’s when I noticed a pair at the water’s edge. A mother and her daughter minutely inspecting their canoe. A long, skinny thing mostly made out of metal. The silver sheen worn to dull gray. But from my viewpoint, looked sturdy enough.

I went up to them. Introduced myself. Asked them if they knew this lake was anomalous, possibly (probably) dangerous.

The daughter had a blank stare, which bore into me. The mother quickly filled the gap in conversation. She questioned whether their boat could withstand the depths of the expanse. Would it be to small and among other things, would they find favor in the courts of Ival-Frike?

I smiled.

This kind of word salad is not uncommon among displaced folk. The brain can’t process the eco-shift and thus, will vomit bits of disconnected input received. I tried to be calm. I asked for more information. I tried to help them understand where they ended up.

But she was different. She was rigid in her convictions

The mother stepped in front of her daughter, arms stretched out. She said I’d interrupted her neuroplasmic field. I again asked her what that was supposed to mean. She pointed to the device I held in a holster around my left thigh. It reads the grade of anomalies. It was beeping incessantly. The daughter continued to stare. In fact, had not spoken a word this whole time.

The mother declared there was no time left to worry about their boat. They would go on foot. They walked directly into the lake and the lake swallowed them whole. I tried to stop them. They sank like rocks. I couldn’t see them through the deep, dark expanse of blue.

While I sat there transfixed by water, another car drove up. A family van. The mom poked her head out the car window and called out to me “Hey! Is this Tunnel Lake?”

Nothing is more dangerous than treating an anomaly as benign. It’s like feeding the monster. You’ll see it’s weird power grow beyond your ability to contain. Beyond your ability to comprehend. You should never do it. Ever.

But sometimes…

It’s already too much. It’s already taken root.

And the bad, bad words pour out your mouth. Words like:

“Yeah! Come on in, the water’s great.”

…

Tunnel Lake is a Class R-grade 9.758 anomaly. For your own safety, we cannot recommend visitation. Unless, of course, you are looking to disappear. 

There’s been plenty of those as of late. 

[wiseballoonartisan]

The Advantages of Hiring a Local Paving Contractor in Florida

Introduction

When it comes to paving projects, whether for residential or commercial purposes, hiring a local paving contractor in Florida can make a world of difference. This state, renowned for its sunny weather and outdoor lifestyle, presents unique challenges and opportunities for paving work. From selecting the right materials to ensuring proper installation techniques, having a local expert on your side can lead to lasting benefits. In this article, we will explore the myriad advantages of hiring a local paving contractor in Florida, delving into various aspects such as quality workmanship, community trust, and localized knowledge.

The Advantages of Hiring a Local Paving Contractor in Florida Understanding Local Regulations and Codes

One of the most significant advantages of hiring a local paving contractor is their familiarity with regional regulations and building codes. Florida has specific laws that govern construction practices related to paving. A knowledgeable contractor will ensure your project complies with these standards.

Permitting Process: Local contractors understand the permitting process required for different types of paving projects. Environmental Regulations: They are aware of environmental considerations that might affect your project, including drainage and stormwater management. Personalized Service and Communication

Local contractors are often more accessible than larger companies that operate on a national scale. This accessibility fosters excellent communication throughout the project.

Direct Contact: You can speak directly with the owner or project manager. Tailored Solutions: They can provide personalized solutions based on your specific needs. Quality Workmanship

Hiring a local paving contractor in Florida ensures that you receive quality workmanship tailored to the unique conditions prevalent in the area.

Local Experience: They are accustomed to dealing with Florida's climate—high humidity and heavy rains—which can affect material choices. Attention to Detail: Smaller firms often pride themselves on attention to detail, leading to better overall results. Community Trust and Reputation

Choosing a local contractor means you’re likely working with someone who has built relationships within the community.

Word-of-Mouth Recommendations: Many local contractors thrive on referrals from satisfied customers. Established Reputation: They often have established reputations within neighborhoods, providing peace of mind as you embark on your project. Familiarity with Local Materials

A local paving contractor understands https://privatebin.net/?cead328777e5f944#FhS4TVEqhft28FP5NPHyzCcr8TrXmwWwXW1Jfab2ekz8 which materials perform best under Florida's unique environmental conditions.

Material Selection: They can recommend suitable options like paver sealing or asphalt sealcoating based on durability and aesthetics. Sourcing Locally: Many may source materials from nearby suppliers, ensuring quality while reducing transportation costs. Timely Project Compl

[slowlyscentedobservation]

“Why Choose Local Contractors for Your Saratoga Springs Paving Needs?”

Introduction

When it comes to enhancing the benefits of driveway contractors exterior of your property, driveway paving is often a priority. Whether you’re considering an asphalt driveway paving near Saratoga Springs NY or looking into asphalt blacktop driveway installation, choosing the right contractor can make all the difference. With a myriad of options available, one question stands out: Why choose local contractors for your Saratoga Springs paving needs? In this article, we'll explore the numerous benefits of hiring local professionals and why they are often your best bet for quality work, reliable service, and cost-effectiveness.

Understanding Driveway Paving What is Driveway Paving?

Driveway paving refers to the process of laying a surface material on driveways to provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing entryway to residential or commercial properties. This can include various materials such as asphalt, concrete, pavers, and gravel.

Types of Driveway Paving Materials Asphalt: Known for its durability and smooth finish, asphalt is a popular choice among homeowners. Concrete: Offers longevity but may require more maintenance over time. Pavers: Provides versatility in design but can be more labor-intensive to install. Gravel: Cost-effective but requires regular upkeep. Benefits of Asphalt Driveway Paving Near Saratoga Springs NY Durability and Longevity

Asphalt driveways are known for their resilience against harsh weather conditions. In regions like Saratoga Springs, where winters can be brutal, an asphalt driveway can withstand freezing temperatures without cracking.

Cost-Effectiveness

When comparing costs with other materials, asphalt tends to be more budget-friendly both in terms of installation and maintenance. For homeowners looking for economical solutions, this makes asphalt an attractive option.

Quick Installation Process

Local contractors in Saratoga Springs can typically complete asphalt driveway paving projects faster than those using other materials. This means less disruption to your daily routine.

The Importance of Local Contractors Why Choose Local Contractors for Your Saratoga Springs Paving Needs?

Local contractors possess an intimate understanding of the specific requirements that come with driving conditions in Saratoga Springs. They’re familiar with local climate patterns, soil types, and regional regulations that affect paving projects. This knowledge translates into better project outcomes.

Accessibility and Communication

Choosing a local contractor ensures that you have easier access to them throughout the project lifecycle. Having someone nearby allows for better communication and quicker responses to any issues or changes you may want to make along the way.

Experience Matters The Expertise of Local Professionals

Local contractors often have years of experience working specifically within the community. This background not only includes technical skills but also insight into what works best for properties in the area.

Customer Testimonials

Positive feedback from previous clients speaks volumes about a contractor's reliability and quality of work. Alwa

[sohelmmmm]

Arkansas Asphalt Solutions

+15017919181

Arkansas Asphalt Solutions is your go-to provider for high-quality asphalt maintenance services. We specialize in sealcoating, line striping, and general asphalt maintenance to help extend the life of your pavement and improve the appearance of your property. Our experienced team is dedicated to delivering reliable and cost-effective solutions for residential and commercial clients.

If you are looking for sealcoating near me, Arkansas Asphalt Solutions offers professional sealcoating services designed to protect your asphalt surfaces from wear and tear. Sealcoating helps prevent damage caused by UV rays, water, and chemicals by creating a protective barrier over your pavement. This process not only extends the life of your asphalt but also enhances its appearance, giving it a fresh and well-maintained look. Regular sealcoating is an essential part of asphalt maintenance that can save you money on costly repairs in the long run.

Asphalt maintenance is crucial for keeping driveways, parking lots, and roads in optimal condition. Over time, asphalt surfaces can develop cracks, potholes, and other issues due to weather exposure and heavy traffic. Arkansas Asphalt Solutions provides comprehensive asphalt maintenance services to address these concerns and restore the integrity of your pavement. Our team uses high-quality materials and proven techniques to ensure long-lasting results. From filling cracks to repairing damaged areas, we are committed to keeping your asphalt surfaces safe and functional.

Line striping is an important aspect of parking lot maintenance that helps improve safety and organization. Faded or improperly marked parking spaces can create confusion and pose a hazard to drivers and pedestrians. At Arkansas Asphalt Solutions, we offer precise line striping services to ensure clear and visible markings for parking lots, roadways, and other paved surfaces. Whether you need fresh striping for a new lot or a refresh for existing markings, our team delivers clean and professional results that enhance traffic flow and compliance with regulations.

We understand that maintaining asphalt surfaces is an ongoing process, which is why we offer customized maintenance plans to suit your needs. Regular upkeep, including sealcoating, crack filling, and line striping, can significantly extend the lifespan of your pavement and keep it looking its best. Our team is committed to providing top-quality asphalt maintenance solutions that help you get the most out of your investment.

At Arkansas Asphalt Solutions, we take pride in delivering exceptional service to meet the needs of our customers. Whether you need sealcoating near me, professional asphalt maintenance, or line striping for a commercial or residential property, we are here to help. Our team is equipped with the expertise and tools to handle projects of all sizes, ensuring high-quality results that stand the test of time.

If you are looking for reliable and efficient asphalt maintenance services, Arkansas Asphalt Solutions is the trusted choice. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help protect and enhance your asphalt surfaces. Our goal is to provide durable and cost-effective solutions that improve the longevity and appearance of your pavement.