#solar panels jackson

[truechatinc]

National debate continues to determine the optimal relationship between farmland and solar panels. Do we have to choose one at the expense of the other or can they coexist and benefit each other? Justin and Lance breakdown new agricultural research that highlights the promising future of solar panels and farmland. tags: tsou, justin weller, lance jackson, farm, land, solar, panels, energy, renewable, research, ohio, Indiana, corn, beans, farmer, economy, climate, change

[noraantilles]

The One you desired

Pairing: Joel Miller x f!Reader (y/n)

Summary: You and your old friend Joel are on Patrol together after you haven‘t seen each other in a while. Reader is in their late 20s.

Warnings: Lots of comfort, Fluff, friends to lovers, a little angsty, age gap

Word count: 2.2k words

You stumbled through your room as you were collecting the last few things you would need for your trip. Food, check. Gun, check. Extra clothing, check. But something was missing. Something important. Your eyes wandered across the room when you spotted your talisman on your nightstand. You picked it up very relieved, put it around your head, and let it disappear under your shirt.

Since already 6 years you have worn that necklace on every tour. It meant a lot to you because you always had that feeling of protection. The same protection that once the man who saved your life gave you. Joel made you that necklace on one of the less stressful days in the wild, before he, Ellie and you came to Jackson. And today after two months you are finally going on a tour together.

You left your apartment and slightly jogged across the area when you finally arrived at the gate. Joel was already waiting and smiled when he saw you.

“Hi.” You greeted him happy but a little nervous since it had been a while for you to spend time with him.

“Hey, haven‘t seen you in a long time. Are you ready for our little trip?” You nodded. As soon as the gate opened and the two of you left Jackson, your trip began.

“I hope it is alright that we‘re doing this hike by foot. Our path is very steep which would have been hard for the horses.” He stated while he went ahead starting your little journey.

“That‘s fine. But could you again tell me where exactly we are going?”

“A couple of miles from Jackson there is an outpost in the mountains. It‘s been a while since someone was there so they asked us to climb up there and check if everything was safe and working.

“Ah yes. I have heard of that outpost.” You remembered. Maria had raved about this place a lot. She told you that she and Tommy had made some trips there for their wedding anniversaries. And that it took them at least two days to get there. You frowned thoughtfully. “But it is pretty far away, isn‘t it?” you asked Joel. “I don‘t think that we would be able to make it in one day.”

“That is correct. That‘s why we will take a break overnight in one of the old hotels near the riverbank pass.”

“Sounds good to me.”

You followed Joel through the forest. It was already autumn, so the sun was able to fall through the trees and give a beautiful view of the red, brown, yellow, and orange leaves that the light wind blew around.

After a long hike you finally arrived at the hotel Joel chose for your stay. After you had entered and climbed up the stairs Joel led you into a room on the fifth floor. The hotel was in bad condition better than the others you suppose but still bad. When you looked around the first thing you noticed was the big hole in the outer wall. No, Big was an understatement. The hole was enormous. It nearly looked like the whole wall was missing. He noticed your worried look.

“We needed a room with fresh air circulation because of the spores in the ventilation shafts. This one I already know. I once was here with Tommy when we had to purge the area around this little village.”

He went to the window, opened it, and took in a solar panel. After that, he turned on a fan heater which was attached to a big car battery.

“This should keep us warm overnight.” He said after organizing his stuff. In the meanwhile, you sat down your bag and took out the sandwiches you made earlier in the morning. After finishing, you joined Joel who was already sitting in the gap of the wall enjoying the view. He dangled his legs over the edge and propped his arms on the metal bar, which was the only remnant that showed the original course of the wall.

You handed him his sandwich and sat down next to him. “It‘s a beautiful view.” You stated as your eyes wandered into the distance of the valley when a deep warm comforted feeling started to spread in your heart. Joel nodded before you both got quiet for a minute. “Thanks for the sandwich by the way.” He broke the silence. You smiled. “So how have been the past two months for you?” he asked you curiously after taking a bite. “Wasn‘t that exciting,” you answered shortly.

The only things you really did were spend time in the garden, growing some veggies and fruits, going for walks through Jackson, and practicing some songs on the guitar which Joel taught you a long time ago. You isolated yourself a bit since you rarely attended the festivities in the Tipsy Bison. You sighed silently. “What about you?”

He shrugged. “I dunno. I was a lot on the road with Tommy. We found an old comic store. They had those space comics Ellie used to read back in the day. I grabbed some but haven‘t had the chance to give them to her.”

You smiled. Joel always wanted to make Ellie or you happy. That hadn’t changed even after the fight he and Ellie had. He loved her. You knew that. “I‘m sure she would like them. She still collects those trading cards.”

“Have you spoken to her?” You frowned a little.

“To Ellie? Yeah, why?” You knew about the fight they had but you didn’t know that they really did not talk to each other.

“How is she?”

“I dunno. She seems fine, I guess. She, Dina, and Jesse have been hanging around lately. I think she has found some good friends in them.”

“That sounds nice.” You could hear the relief in Joel's voice. He took a moment as he looked around the valley lost in his thoughts. “Do you think she likes Jesse?”

You narrowed your brows as you turned your head to face him. “What exactly do you mean by ‘like’?”

Joel smiled sheepishly. “I mean does she like him more than as a friend?”

You chuckled. “No, I don‘t think so. You know, Jesse is not really Ellie's type I think but that, you should ask her.”

Joel nodded with a light smile. “Yeah, you‘re probably right. And what about you? I mean you are 27 now, right? There are some good-looking guys in Jackson. Is there someone that you like?”

You sighed. “Oh, if it only would be that easy.”

“Why? What do you mean?” Joel turned his head to look at you.

You sighed again. It wasn’t your favorite topic that was for sure. “Well, in order to catch feelings I have to know this person for a longer period of time. I have to know them, what they are like, and they would have to know me, understand me. There are not that many people left in the world, that do so, you know?”

He nodded understandingly as he wandered off into his thoughts again.

“I think it is time for you to get some rest. We still have five hours of walking in front of us tomorrow.” He interrupted himself. You nodded in agreement.

“You are right. But don‘t stay up that long yourself, alright?”

He smiled.

You stood up and went back to the fan heater to lie down and get some sleep.

The next morning when you woke up Joel was already up, scouting over the landscape from our point of view. You packed your things and prepared the place like you found it, for your next stop. You set out for the outpost. After roundabout five hours of walking and climbing, you finally arrived at a not-so-small mountain villa.

You climbed up the last few stairs, unlocked the door, and entered a beautiful modern house. Maria has not promised too much. The place was absolutely stunning.

“I‘m gonna go check out the generator. So that we have power.” Joel said before disappearing into the basement. You wandered around the living area after setting down your backpack. After a few minutes, Joel managed to turn on the generator and come back into the living room.

“You can take a shower if you like. In a couple of minutes, we should have warm water. I‘m gonna go outside to collect some wood.”

“Be careful.” You called after him.

“Always.” He answered before he disappeared through the door. After you found the bathroom, took a shower, and got dressed in some fresh new clothes, Joel was still outside so you decided to make something for dinner. You packed some extra bread, just in case. Joel told you that there had to be a small garden for vegetables and since it is autumn, there was a good chance for you to make something delicious for dinner.

To your luck, there really was a garden. It was a little overgrown, but you really managed to find some onions, pumpkins, even zucchini and tomatoes as well as some fresh herbs. You picked them up, brought everything you found to the kitchen, and started preparing a pumpkin soup with a tomato zucchini pan. After Joel returned you sent him right into the shower.

“Dinner‘s ready in a couple of minutes so hurry up.” You said while slicing the bread.

“As the chef demands.” He answered playfully before disappearing into the bathroom.

You set the table, lit a candle, and even found a bottle of wine, which you straight up brought to the table. After you finished setting everything up, Joel was done with showering und joined you in the living room.

“Wow, that smells amazing. You really put a lot of effort into it.” He smiled while he appreciated the lovely, decorated dinner table.

“Please, have a seat.” You invited him.

“Sure, one moment I think there is an old record player somewhere, which we can -…. Ah right here.” Joel put on some slow music and seated himself right in front of you. After long conversations, a lot of joking around, and finishing dinner, you just smiled at each other.

“I haven’t had that much fun in a long time.” He acknowledged. You smiled.

“Me too. I‘m glad that we both took this tour. This house is amazing. The view from the balcony is stunning and you even get the feeling of safety.”

“That is true. And don’t forget the great company.” He smiled as he raised his glass to give a toast.

For a short moment, you just sat there quietly and smiled at each other, before Joel broke the silence.

“Hey uhm, that may sound a bit silly but, …, do you wanna dance?”

“Sure.” You answered immediately without hesitation.

He stood up and reached you his hand as he led you through the living room. Gently he put his arm around your waist, while his other hand was gripping yours and you slowly started moving to the music.

You leaned fully into him so that your head was resting on his shoulder. The warmth of his body was giving you the rest. He made you feel safe in a way that no one else ever could. The man who once saved your life so selfless is now holding you in his arms so delicately.

You liked him, no you loved him. All those buried feelings that you carried with you all the time, are pushing to the surface. You don‘t know how or when those feelings developed but now in this position, you couldn’t deny that they weren’t there. But does he feel the same? Does he like you the way you liked him? What if not?

You raised your head to look him in the eyes. With full dedication you smiled at him, which he returned. The way he looked at you, there was no denying that he also liked you. You gave him comfort as well. A realization that made your heart fluster, when suddenly his mood changed.

His look went off as he distanced himself from you before he turned around. Fear and anxiety overcame you as you were afraid of losing him.

“Did I do something wrong? you whispered, as you placed your hand on his shoulder.

“No, it‘s -.”

“Is it because of my age? Am I too young for you?” you interrupted him.

“It‘s -. I just think that you deserve someone that is your age, someone that you potentially can grow old with. Unlike me.” Your heart froze at that moment as you started panicking.

“Joel, please don‘t do this. Remember what I told you yesterday? Catching feelings for someone is an experience that I rarely have access to. Especially in times like this where death and loss are inevitable. Loving someone gives us a reason to live. Protecting them and being with them lets us feel alive.” You took a short break. “There is no one out there I’d rather be with than with you. Please, don‘t push me away for the bid of time we have left. None of us wants to be alone.”

He needed a short time to let those words of yours sink in before he decided to turn around.

“I love you, Joel,” you whispered when he looked into your eyes again.

His hands wandered gripping your waist, pulling you in for a kiss. When his lips met yours, a shiver went down your spine. You reached his neck with your hands holding him tight. You never ever wanted to let go of him again. Of the man that loved you too.

[akariamai]

Home

Part 2

Pairing: Joel Miller x reader

Word Count: 1401

You were luckier than most. A wealthy family contracted you to fix up the bus they bought and convert it into their dream home. You managed to construct every aspect the family wanted inside the double-decker bus then the apocalypse hit. The members of your small town, including the family who paid you, left without a single thought. They left with nothing but the clothes on their backs while heading out with military soldiers. You stayed behind, taking the bus with you, and becoming self-sufficient from then on.

You scavenged through the abandoned stores searching for anything remotely useful to survival. Stocking up the pantry to its fullest and filling the closet with ammunition, guns, medicine and general supplies. You began to work.

The perishable meats and vegetables were going to go bad soon. Without constant refrigeration, they’ll rot swiftly. You thanked the heavens, the freezer the family wanted was large enough to stalk up. Shrimp, crayfish, lean fish, chicken and steaks were concealed in an airtight zip lock bag and left in the freezer. On the outside of the bags contained notes of the dates they’ll last within the freezer. All should last months and hopefully you’ll manage to stretch every bit of it.

Once the freezer was filled, it displeased you to see it all go to waste. Trimming off the fat of the meat, you made a marinade of spices that couldn’t fit in your pantry. You might as well not reduce your supplies before taking off. Your dehydrator was a god sent. You dehydrated jerky, salmon, fruit, and vegetables. They were your meals in the beginning of the apocalypse.

You were self-sufficient for a long time. Escaping from the dangers that lurked outside of your bus. You didn’t drive around often but it was necessary at times. While the infected were dangerous, it was arguable people were more of a danger to your well-being.

It was years before you found your way to Jackson, where the community welcomed you with open arms and bright smiles, your presence became well-known throughout the community. Your job was to dehydrate meat before winter hits. It was an easy job as you had the equipment and were given the meat from hunters. You never had to leave the safety of the community.

You were offered one of the available houses, but you declined. You were satisfied living on the bus. Instead, they gave you a plot of land to do as you wished. You proceeded to grow a garden and build a shed to hold gardening tools.

You were clearing the snow off the solar panels when you heard your name. Maria, a dear friend of yours, Tommy, her husband, and two strangers you had yet to meet slowly walked towards your small plot of land.

“Maria, Tommy.” You nodded as the couple and the strangers watched you work. Watching you collecting the snow into a canteen.  

“[Reader] this is Joel and Ellie. They’re new.” Maria introduced them.

“Welcome to Jackson.”

“[Reader] is one of the hardest workers here.” Tommy boasted, “They’ve helped build several houses and know how to make delicious jerky. Occasionally, you’ll see them helping around with the community garden. That is if they’re not working on their own garden.”

“You must be very bored.” She replied with a bit of snark.

“Ellie.” Joel scolded.

You laughed, “True.” You looked down on their figures. “The apocalypse does leave one bored out of their minds.” You could attest to that. Before Jackson, you had gardened your herbs, prepared and cooked meals, occasionally listened to music, and reread the books you’ve found along the way.

She agreed with your statement, having gone through her own mind-numbing activities while surviving, “You’re telling me. I’ve been stuck in a car with this asshole, reading directions and shit.” Joel maintained a pained look on his face, muttering something under his breath, before quieting down.

“[Reader],” Maria drew your attention to her, “We wanted to ask if you could watch Ellie for a bit.” She didn’t specify after that.

“Sure.” You nodded, “You can come right in Ellie, I’ll be down in a minute.”

“Thank you.” It was not Maria who thanked you but Joel. It was evident he didn’t particularly like being around crowds, probably an aftereffect of the world just beyond the walls of Jackson, it reminded you of yourself when you first walked into the community. Unsure if it was safe or not. A brief paradise before corrupt men or the infected came barreling through the gates.

You didn’t reply as Tommy and Maria began to leave. Joel slowly followed behind them, almost hesitant to leave Ellie in your care, but persisted forward. You climbed down the ladder and proceeded to gather a few items Ellie might need: clothing and hygiene products.

“Do you want to shower?” You asked, “I have hot water.”

“Hot water?” It must’ve been a long time since she enjoyed the luxury of hot water. You never had to know a life without it. The bus kept you sheltered from the horrors left in the wake of the outbreak.

“Plenty of it.” You handed her clean clothing. “Let me know if you need anything.”

Once you heard the water was on, you began to search for spare hygiene products the girl might need. A question lingered in the air as the decision to stay or leave was left uncertain.

“Ellie,” You called out, “Are you hungry? I can warm something up for you.”

“I’m starving.”

“Are you allergic to anything?”

“No.”

You left her alone to enjoy her shower and walked towards your kitchen. You were defrosting a portion of the vegetable soup for yourself, but Ellie needed it more. You proceeded to warm up the soup and searched for a bag of beef jerky you’ve made.

Ellie came down soon after and you motioned for her to have a seat. You pulled out the table and placed the warm soup in front of her. You offered her a smile, “Hope you like it.”

Ellie scarfed down the food as if it was going to disappear. You munched on bits and pieces of beef jerky, enjoying the sweet and spice, before Ellie called for your attention.

“So, you live here?” She looked over the bottom floor of your home. It was extremely organized and untouched.

“Yes.”

“Did they not give you a house?” Curiosity amplified as she awaited your response.

“They did.” You answered curtly, “But I refused.” You offered nothing else.

“Why not?”

“This is my home.” You didn’t want to mention you were waiting for the day the community would fall. It was a terrible thought, but you were a realist. Something or someone would come knocking and destroy everything that was built. It might not be today or tomorrow but someday it will happen. “It’s been my home since the beginning, and I won’t abandon it now.”

You gave Ellie the hygiene products you were willing to part with: a toothbrush, two bottles of toothpaste tablets, and a period cup with instructions. You know Maria would trade for other products she might need.

Ellie looked at the toothpaste tablets bizarrely. “This is toothpaste?”

You nodded, “Crush the tablet with your teeth. The tablet will mix with your saliva to create toothpaste.”

“Cool.” She stuffed everything in her backpack. “Thank you.”

~~~

Tommy knocked on your door early in the morning. He wanted to trade, for Joel and Ellie, for several bags of beef jerky to last a few weeks. Joel and Ellie stood right beside him, as they watched the transaction inquisitively.

You noticed they carried their bags, presumably the ones they arrived with, and knew they were leaving. You sighed, “Without refrigeration, the beef jerky is going to last about a week. I have a few bags of roasted nuts that can last within up to three months.”

“What do you want for them?” Tommy questioned. It was a matter of substance or labor.

“Nothing.” You didn’t have the need for anything, and they were leaving to a place where food was scarce. But nothing was unacceptable to Tommy. You walked back inside and brought back several bags for the two. “Take care of each other. Stay safe.”

You hoped to see them again. Alive and healthy. You wished for them to live long and happy lives wherever life spurred them too.

“Goodbye.”

Masterlist

[write-r-die]

Man's World - Part 5

Masterlist

I'm in a writing mood lately and I'm choosing not to question it. This is a bit of a filler chapter before the real action starts.

We walk toward the edge of camp, where trucks, buses, and shipping containers are arranged into a sort of perimeter wall. Most people at least nod to Miss Ally in greeting; the soldiers all greet her by name - most with the reverence with which they’d greet a military commander (the Boss).

The tents become sparser the further from the center of camp we move until we approach the double-ring of trucks, RVs, trailers, and shipping containers that mark the perimeter of camp - a makeshift wall for our little city, designed as much to keep August’s people in as it is to protect from outsiders.

There are gunmen on the roofs of some of the massive vehicles. Somewhere nearby, Depeche Mode is playing on a crank radio.

“Sy!” Miss Ally calls out as we approach a loose group of soldiers.

The biggest one turns our way. “Miss Ally.” He walks in our direction. He’s tall and muscular and has cropped brown hair and a vigorous beard. Judging by his bearing, he’s some hybrid of a football player, a Navy Seal, and a frat boy at an old Southern university.

As he comes closer, I think I recognize him, but I would have remembered someone looking like that. Probably some weird side effect of the concussion.

“Sy,” Miss Ally says again when he’s in front of us. Didn’t Stiva mention someone named Sy?

He pushes his sunglasses up, resting them on the top of his head. He looks even more familiar now. “Good morning, Miss Ally. What can I do for you?”

“I’d like you to put this young lady to work in one of the stock trucks.”

Sy crosses his arms over his chest as he takes stock of me. “You the one that shot at the Boss during the last raid?”

“Mm-hmm,” Miss Ally says.

Sy nods. “Good. Keep him on his toes.” He extends a large, rough hand. “Syverson.”

I take it and shake once before letting it drop. “Lilah.”

He turns and starts walking without giving me any warning first and I nearly have to run to catch up.

“You pregnant or something?” he asks once we’ve cleared the densest part of camp.

“What?”

“I’m trying to figure out why August hasn’t killed you, since you tried to kill him.” 

August, he said, not the Boss.

“I think he just wants to sleep with me.”

Syverson gives me a quick once-over. “That tracks.” 

It hits me then – who it is that he resembles.

“Are you and August related?”

Syverson glances at me again. “Cousins.”

It’s not that they look similar, exactly, though the likeness is uncanny - the only tangible differences that I can see are that Syverson is slightly more muscular and August’s hair is a little darker. Their demeanors are entirely different, enough that it counteracts the physical resemblance. 

I have the urge to explain all this to him, but an image of Jack’s bored, disinterested face flashes before me, and I decide against it.

We head to the outskirts of camp, where lorry trucks, RVs, U-Hauls, buses, campers, and even a handful of humvees have been arranged in a double-ring that encompasses the whole camp in a makeshift border wall designed as much to keep our people in as it is to keep strangers out.

Depeche Mode is playing from a crank radio beside one of the gunmen keeping watch atop a lorry. A couple of mechanics are cursing  as they attempt to repair a busted solar panel atop an RV. There are a few mean-looking dogs on chains scattered about. 

Syverson isn’t sure exactly what he wants me to do yet so he sort of just turns me loose. 

They don’t seem to mind me wandering between the vehicles and investigating what’s inside. School buses packed with books - school books in one, historical nonfiction in another. One of them is just for children’s books, stuffed with multiple copies of Bunnicula and Percy Jackson and even Twilight. 

There are a few “lady trucks” as the soldiers call them, packed with enough pads, tampons, and menstrual cups to last all the women in camp at least a year. It’s kind of nice, in a weird way, that they thought to stock up on period products. I doubt it was August’s idea, but the trucks’ very existence is proof that the powers that be do care about women’s wellbeing. Kind of. 

Guards linger near the more important vehicles, the ones that house “valuables,” which I assume means medical supplies and ammo and such. I don’t ask for details or to look inside; they’d say no if I did anyway. 

I’m poking around in a school bus that has coincidentally been turned into one of several makeshift libraries, when August Walker shows up.

“Bossman!” somebody calls, drawing everyone’s attention. The men all straighten up where they’re standing. They don’t salute as he walks past but they do dip their heads in respect as he goes by. Almost like bowing. Almost like he’s a king.

I hate how my heart thumps as he comes close enough for me to make out his features. I’m disgusted at his behavior this morning and for his general dickishness last night but Miss Ally is right. I’m attracted to him. There’s no use denying it.

Syverson steps closer to him and they start talking. I can’t hear very well but the gist of the conversation comes through. He wants to pack up camp by the end of the week. It’s time to move on.

I creep to the front of the bus toward the open door to so I can hear better while doing my best to stay out of sight.

“The place is dried up,” August says to Sy.

The others are listening like me but pretending that they aren’t – also like me. 

“We’ve gotten anything and anyone that could possibly be of use,” August continues. “We’ll do one last sweep through the suburbs tomorrow night.”

“How many guys do you want?” Sy asks.

“Five. It’ll just be escort duty while a couple of Miss Ally’s people poke around. I’ll lead myself.” And then he raises his obscenely large hand, finger pointed right at me though he doesn’t turn to look. “You’re coming too,” he tells me. 

Syverson looks my way, even though his cousin does not. He gives me another once-over.

“Me?” My voice is nightmarishly shrill. How the fuck did he even know I was here? Did he plant a tracker on me while I was asleep or something? “I’m – I won’t be of any use. I thought we established that.”

“You’ll have to earn your keep somehow,” August drawls. “You’ve chosen not to take advantage of the easier option, but if you change your mind, it’s still on the table.”

Syverson tamps down a smirk, raising his eyebrows as he turns to see my reaction.

I can feel my ears heating with the force of my anger. My first thought is, how can I inflict the same harm on him that he has inflicted on me? My second thought is how embarrassing this is for him to say in front of his men. And then I think that I hate all fucking men, but especially this one.

“You must be around a lot of women that will settle for substandard men,” I finally say.

I see eyes widening and smirks growing on the soldier’s faces but they keep trying to pretend that they aren’t listening – except for Sy, who grins and swivels back to his cousin to see his retort.

August is smirking slightly as I step out of the bus and start walking back towards the center of camp. As I brush by him, August murmurs, “If you want proof of what I can do, I’ve got no shortage of witnesses.”

That just pisses me off.

That night, I dream of August. Of myself in that other woman’s position. I wake up sweating and wet and frustrated with myself. How am I going to get through this supply run?

[windriverviewcampground]

Sustainable RV Travel: Eco-Friendly Tips for Visiting Boulder, WY

Welcome to Wind River View Campground, your ideal base for eco-friendly adventures in the heart of Boulder, Wyoming. Nestled by the picturesque Fremont Lake, our campground offers a range of accommodations from full hookup RV sites to unique renovated sheep wagon camps. As you prepare for your stay, embracing sustainable RV travel not only enhances your experience but also helps preserve the stunning landscapes of Wyoming for future generations. Here are some practical tips for maintaining an eco-friendly lifestyle while enjoying the natural beauty around Boulder.

1. Choose Sustainable RV Parks

When selecting long-term RV parks in Wyoming, opt for those with strong environmental practices. At Wind River View Campground, we are committed to sustainability and minimizing our ecological footprint. Look for parks that offer:

Recycling Programs: Ensure the park has facilities for recycling common waste materials like paper, plastics, and glass.

Energy-Efficient Facilities: Choose parks with energy-efficient lighting and water-saving fixtures.

Waste Management: Parks should have clear waste disposal guidelines and provide options for composting organic waste.

2. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

The principles of reducing, reusing, and recycling can greatly impact your RV travel experience:

Reduce: Minimize waste by bringing only what you need. Avoid single-use plastics and opt for reusable items like water bottles, shopping bags, and utensils.

Reuse: Invest in durable products that can be used repeatedly. For example, reusable containers and cloth napkins can replace disposable options.

Recycle: Sort your waste into appropriate recycling bins provided by the campground or local facilities.

3. Conserve Energy

Energy conservation is crucial when traveling in an RV. Here are some tips to keep your energy consumption in check:

Use Solar Power: Equip your RV with solar panels to harness renewable energy. This reduces reliance on fossil fuels and can help power your appliances while minimizing your impact on the grid.

Turn Off Lights and Appliances: When not in use, switch off lights, appliances, and electronics. Utilize LED bulbs for energy efficiency.

Optimize Your Air Conditioning and Heating: Use fans and ventilation to reduce the need for air conditioning. When heating, ensure your RV is well-insulated to maintain warmth efficiently.

4. Practice Water Conservation

Conserving water is essential in maintaining the health of natural ecosystems and ensuring a sustainable future. Follow these practices:

Shorten Showers: Limit shower time and consider installing a low-flow showerhead in your RV to reduce water usage.

Fix Leaks: Regularly check for and repair any leaks in your RV’s plumbing system to avoid water waste.

Use Water-Efficient Fixtures: Equip your RV with water-saving fixtures and appliances to minimize consumption.

5. Respect Wildlife and Natural Habitats

While exploring the natural wonders around Boulder, it’s vital to respect the wildlife and their habitats:

Follow Trail Guidelines: Stick to designated trails to prevent habitat destruction and minimize your impact on local flora and fauna.

Keep a Safe Distance: Observe wildlife from a distance to avoid disturbing them. Use binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens for a closer look.

Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and follow the Leave No Trace principles to ensure you leave the environment as you found it.

6. Support Local and Sustainable Businesses

Enhance your eco-friendly travel experience by supporting local businesses that prioritize sustainability:

Local Farmers and Markets: Shop at farmers' markets and local stores for fresh produce and artisanal goods. This supports the local economy and reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transport.

Eco-Friendly Eateries: Dine at restaurants that practice sustainable sourcing and waste reduction. Many local eateries in towns like Pinedale and Jackson Hole emphasize environmental responsibility.

7. Engage in Eco-Friendly Activities

Make the most of your stay at Wind River View Campground by engaging in activities that align with sustainable travel practices:

Hiking and Biking: Explore the trails around Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park on foot or by bike. These low-impact activities allow you to enjoy the scenery without contributing to pollution.

Fishing and Boating: When enjoying Fremont Lake, follow regulations and guidelines for sustainable fishing and boating. Use environmentally friendly products and avoid disrupting aquatic ecosystems.

Wildlife Observation: Participate in wildlife observation tours that emphasize conservation and responsible viewing practices.

8. Educate and Inspire Others

Share your commitment to sustainable travel with fellow campers and travelers. By raising awareness and setting an example, you can inspire others to adopt eco-friendly practices:

Share Tips and Experiences: Discuss your sustainable travel practices with others and offer tips for reducing environmental impact.

Promote Sustainable Parks: Advocate for parks and campgrounds that prioritize sustainability and encourage friends and family to choose eco-friendly options.

Conclusion

At Wind River View Campground, we are dedicated to providing an exceptional experience while preserving the natural beauty of Boulder, Wyoming. By adopting these sustainable RV travel tips, you can contribute to the protection of our environment and enhance your overall travel experience. From reducing waste and conserving energy to supporting local businesses and respecting wildlife, every small action counts towards a more sustainable future. We look forward to welcoming you to our campground and helping you explore the breathtaking landscapes of Wyoming in an eco-friendly way. Safe travels and happy camping!

[vampire-bf]

oh you want some research?

biden continuing trumps border wall

https://www.texastribune.org/2023/10/05/biden-border-wall-texas-starr-county/

resumed student loan payments, no cancellation in 4 years

over $800 million towards cops

https://www.politifact.com/truth-o-meter/promises/biden-promise-tracker/promise/1526/invest-300-million-cops-program/

first solar donated to bidens campaign and has now doubled their stock prices

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/amp/nation/bidens-inflation-reduction-act-aimed-to-boost-renewable-energy-subsidies-could-help-one-company-reap-billions

environmental damage from solar panels

https://8billiontrees.com/solar-panels/why-is-solar-energy-bad/#:~:text=Though%20the%20amount%20of%20toxic,the%20water%20and%20the%20land.

boeing has gov ties, less corporate prosecution

https://jacobin.com/2024/06/boeing-justice-department-revolving-door

biden further funding israel despite saying he wants a ceasefire

https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/2024/04/26/politics/joe-biden-israel-support-college-campus-protests

biden increase deportations

https://www.wola.org/analysis/end-title-42/

scotus siding with chevron against attorney fighting for indigenous rights against environmental damage, including bidens scotus pick ketanji brown jackson

https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/2023/03/27/politics/donzinger-chevron-supreme-court

little girl dies at the border after several pleas for an ambulance

https://amp.cnn.com/cnn/2023/06/02/us/anadith-danay-reyes-alvarez-ambulance-requests-denied

sends $13 billion to ukraine, cuts $5 billion from covid relief

https://inthesetimes.com/article/house-democrats-pelosi-biden-covid-aid-vaccines-wto-moderna-pfizer

biden cutting 15 million citizens from medicaid

https://fair.org/home/trumps-idling-plane-got-more-tv-coverage-than-biden-cutting-healthcare-for-15-million/

biden approves mine destroying sacred apache religious site

https://news.mongabay.com/2023/04/apache-tribe-decry-loss-of-sacred-site-to-massive-copper-mine-at-both-court-and-the-u-n/amp/

biden blocking trans people in sports

https://apnews.com/article/trans-athletes-biden-title-ix-28c6c78e9cd60a4c334de15bfdd624fe

biden advancing plan for oil trains along the colorado river, after the several train derailments the last several years causing catastrophic environmental damage

https://amp.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/mar/09/utah-oil-railroad-uinta-railway-developers-tax-breaks

bidens record oil sales despite his "great environmental policy"

https://www.eenews.net/articles/biden-oil-sale-brings-in-record-revenue-for-2024/

and really i could keep going. you want a list of trump doing all the same exact shit? cuz i can do that too.

Look.

I have made you a chart. A very simple chart.

People say "You have to draw the line somewhere, and Biden has crossed it-" and my response is "Trump has crossed way more lines than Biden".

These categories are based off of actual policy enacted by both of these men while they were in office.

If the ONLY LINE YOU CARE ABOUT is line 12, you have an incredible amount of privilege, AND YOU DO NOT CARE ABOUT PALESTINIANS. You obviously have nothing to fear from a Trump presidency, and you do not give a fuck if a ceasefire actually occurs. You are obviously fine if your queer, disabled, and marginalized loved ones are hurt. You clearly don't care about the status of American democracy, which Trump has openly stated he plans to destroy on day 1 he is in office.

[april-pad]

Why Did Scientists Downgrade Pluto from Being a Planet?

The Solar body Pluto has been a source of battles even before they discovered it. Its long history has seen judicial rivalry, scientific errors, and the long-reigning division in the astronomical community.  Most of these conflicts revolve around why did scientists downgrade Pluto from being a planet. During the 1990s, scientists considered Pluto as the ninth planet in our Solar system. Even though there were some discussions as to its size and mass, the scientific community supported its status.  For example, in 1930 both the  American Astronomical Society and the Royal Astronomical Society voted unanimously to name the new planet, Pluto. However, this did not mean a time of peace. In 1919 the widow of a famous astronomer, Constance Lowell, launched a ten-year legal battle with the  Lowell Observatory. Her lawsuit crippled further studies until 1929. A year later, Clyde W. Tombaugh discovered the planet.

Why Did Scientists Downgrade Pluto from Being a Planet?

Once they confirmed the discovery of the new planet, more rivalry sprung to life. One group of scientists wanted to name the planet after  Percival Lowell, whom they believed found it first. Altogether more than a thousand suggestions bombed the the Lowell Observatory.  Among these, three recommendations were common: - Minerva: The panel eliminated this title since it was already used - Pluto:  More than 150 persons had submitted this option - Cronus: This suggestion had no chance since Thomas Jefferson Jackson See, a controversial astronomer with little support, promoted it. Notably, Pluto is the name of the Roman god of the underworld but even after winning this battle, the war continued.  In 1951 another scientist, Gerard Kuiper, created a theory that a belt of smaller planet-like objects existed close to Neptune. By 1992, the discovery of a minor planet Albion would set the stage for a re-classification of Solar bodies.

New Definition of Planets Dwarfs Pluto

In 2005, the International Astronomical Union (IAU) redefined planets and established new classifications that would directly affect Pluto and other similar 'Dwarf Planets".  The new resolution summed up the  definition in three characteristics: - The object must orbit the sun. Here Pluto fully qualifies. - Its next feature demands that the body must have enough mass (be big enough) so that gravity can mold it into a sphere. Another thumbs up for our underworld guy. - In addition, the object must have removed all other bodies or debris from its orbit. This is where Pluto failed. The IAU downgraded it since Pluto shares a common orbit or the Kupler Belt with 100s of other objects. However, the war continues. The State of California passed a resolution declaring the IAU's ruling as  "scientific heresy". A similar move by the New Mexico House of Representatives declared March 13, 2007, was Pluto Planet Day. In 209, the Illinois Senate followed suit. Read the full article

[articlesub410]

Artisan Retro Trailers

Artisan Retro Trailers

Step into a world of unparalleled RV customization craftsmanship and artistic expression at Ace of Spades Custom RV.

We are passionate about turning RVs into masterpieces that evoke awe and admiration wherever they roam.

From handcrafted cabinetry and exquisite finishes to meticulous attention to detail, every element of our custom work showcases the artistry and skill of our talented team.Whether you desire a sleek and modern design or a timeless and elegant aesthetic, we will collaborate closely with you to create an RV that stands as a true work of art.

James West, a seasoned professional in the RV industry, has been a Certified Red Seal Master RV technician since 1999. His expertise spans across 18 trades within the industry, making him a versatile and highly skilled professional.His proficiency includes RV electrical systems, wiring, plumbing, propane, welding, and the installation of various components such as solar panels, hot water heaters, appliances, inverters, converters, batteries, entertainment systems, and much more.

He also specializes in carpentry, a skill that has proven invaluable in his line of work.

West’s journey in the RV industry began with four years of professional training in British Columbia, Canada.

This comprehensive training equipped him with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in various work settings, including RV dealerships, independent RV repair shops, and as a self-employed professional.

 In 2014, after years of working in mediocre RV dealerships, James decided to take a leap of faith and opened his own RV Repair shop in Langley, BC Canada.

 The shop, which he owned for five years, offered a variety of services, including RV repairs, maintenance, and upgrades.

 However, after experiencing a significant increase in small business taxes in Canada,  James decided to explore opportunities elsewhere.

 James and Teri applied for a small business work visa and decided to relocate their business to Las Vegas, Nevada.

 The process was challenging, but they were thrilled when Homeland Security approved their application.

 They successfully moved and set up their new shop in South Las Vegas, marking a new chapter in their professional journey.

 In addition to running the repair shop, James and Teri also built their own personal tear drop trailer, a 13-foot travel trailer with a log cabin theme.

 This trailer, equipped with every imaginable amenity, serves as a testament to their craftsmanship and attention to detail.

 They have plans to reproduce replicas of this tear drop trailer, but with a vintage retro vibe, and in four very different styles. Our Retro Vintage teardrop trailers are inspired by the iconic designs of the mid-20th century, evoking a sense of wanderlust and adventure.

From the sleek curved lines to the polished aluminum exteriors, every inch exudes classic sophistication.The carefully selected color palettes and vintage-inspired accents add a touch of nostalgia, making these trailers a true head-turner wherever you go.

While our teardrop trailers pay homage to the past, we believe in blending vintage aesthetics with contemporary amenities.

Inside, you’ll find thoughtfully designed living spaces that maximize comfort and convenience. From cozy sleeping quarters to compact kitchens equipped with modern appliances, our trailers offer everything you need to make your journey enjoyable and memorable.

West and his team are planning to market their trailers at Barrett Jackson auctions as vendors.

However, they are also open to direct inquiries from individuals interested in owning one of their unique trailers.

The RV industry has seen significant growth over the years, with RV ownership increasing by over 62% in the last twenty years.

Currently, about 11.2 million U.S. households own an RV, and this number is expected to rise.

As a seasoned professional in this growing industry, West is well-positioned to provide high-quality services and products to RV owners and enthusiasts alike.

His journey from a trainee in Canada to a business owner in Las Vegas is a testament to his dedication, skill, and entrepreneurial spirit. 

Please check out our instagram account to see all of our RV projects. Our account dates back to 2018 where we showcase most of our RV renovation and customization jobs including a tiny house from a 5th wheel to the ‘expedition like earth roamer’ replica that our client requested. A truly high end, modern build to date.

[medinainternational]

(Motif-Radio) Reggae Pon Top # 13 Show track listing below:

SINGLE: COOL OUT VERSION GRANTIE ASHER- SET ME FREE BITTY MCLEAN & SLY & ROBBIE- WALK AWAY FROM LOVE LIVE VERSION RICHIE SPICE- CRAZY WORLD KHALIA- TABOO MEDISUN, YEZA, BLAKKAMORE- NEED NOT APPLY ZION HEAD- POLICE A KILLER FREDERICKA TIBBS- YOU DON'T OWN ME LITTLE JOHN- SAY WHAT YOU SAYING ASANTE AMEN- LOVE ZONE RICHIE SPICE- HEALING EEK A MOUSE- PUT FOOD ON THE GHETTO YOUTH TABLE

RIDDIMS: SIGN RIDDIM KILLA RIDDIM CONGO MAN RIDDIM THE RECOUP RIDDIM

DANCEHALL RIDDIM: SOLAR PANEL RIDDIM BASIK RIDDIM GENTLE REMINDER RIDDIM

ROOTS/ONE DROP/LOVER'S ROCK: RAS SHERBY- WARNING MACKA B- UP YE MIGHTY RACE TENNA STAR- WORRIES IN THE DANCE AZZIZI ROMEO- JAH SEND THE RAIN RAS DEGUS- KEMIST ROGER ROBIN- ROCKY ROAD BLACK STEEL- IMPOSTERS TWINKLE BROTHERS- SELFISH DUBCUP FT. R.ZEE JACKSON- REVELATION 5 STEVE BASWELL- COOL RASTAMAN MADI SIMMONS- YOUR LOVE IS MY SWEETNESS DENNIS BROWN/DHAIMA- AH TRUE

[greeneyre]

I was hoping someone would point this out. He's a spoiled rich kid from a notoriously racist SoCal suburb (source: I'm from the area) who got his political career started as a progressive student activist who tried to have solar panels installed on his high school. After working with known federal agent Tulsi Gabbard, he's largely switched to 3rd-positionist rhetoric (helping to start that "patriotic socialist" or "MAGACommunist" meme that fizzled out thankfully quickly) and has even attached himself to those whackos in the LaRouche Movement and spoken at events by the Schiller Institute, their front group/think tank. He's only outwardly supporting Palestine to gain clout in the anti-imperialist community, but DO NOT BE FOOLED- he is a racist, opportunist dudebro who works with literal feds and fascists.

Please trust me on this. He is political poison.

IF YOU SEE JACKSON HINKLE AT AN EVENT, PUSH HIM OUT OR LEAVE IF YOU SEE JACKSON HINKLE AT AN EVENT, PUSH HIM OUT OR LEAVE IF YOU SEE JACKSON HINKLE AT AN EVENT, PUSH HIM OUT OR LEAVE

It seems like a good time to remind everyone that this guy, Jackson Hinkle, is a fascist who’s trying to build clout for his particular brand of third position ethnonationalism by posting about the Israeli assault on Palestine. He’s a liar and a snake.

[beardedmrbean]

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — Retired pastors have filed at least two federal lawsuits in recent weeks against the African Methodist Episcopal Church along with several subsidiaries and financial firms the church used, alleging tens of millions of dollars from a pension fund were mismanaged and missing.

The retired pastors in Florida and Maryland filed the lawsuits against the oldest historically Black denomination in the U.S. late last month. They are seeking class-action status on behalf of thousands of other AME pastors and church officials throughout the U.S. who lost money through the pension fund.

The pastors, all of whom have worked about a quarter century for the church and were required to participate in the retirement plan, said they have been unable to get access to their money.

The lawsuit filed by the Florida pastor, the Rev. Charles Jackson in Orlando, alleges the church and its related financial institutions were negligent and breached their fiduciary responsibilities. Jackson is seeking a jury trial and punitive damages in the complaint filed in federal court in Tennessee.

“Many Class member — including Plaintiff Reverend Jackson — are retired and have suddenly learned that resources they relied on to support themselves, to depend on in times of bad health, and to simply enjoy during retirement, have been stolen from them by people they trusted," the lawsuit said.

In his lawsuit, the Rev. Cedric Alexander of Bowie Maryland, said the then-chair of the church's retirement fund invested money in undeveloped land in Florida and a now-defunct capital venture outfit, and gave a promissory note to an installer of solar panels. The lawsuit alleges violations of a federal law protecting employee retirement funds.

The church's retirement fund chair “invested Plan assets in imprudent, extraordinarily risky investments that ultimately lost nearly $100 million of Plan participants’ retirement savings," the Maryland lawsuit said.

The church didn't immediately respond to an email seeking comment Tuesday. However, in a message posted to its website late last month, the church acknowledged that retirement fund participants “may have been the victim of a financial crime."

After a new administrator of the church's Department of Retirement Services took over last year, financial “irregularities" were uncovered in some retirement fund investments. The church has hired an outside legal firm and forensics experts to conduct an investigation, the statement said.

“The AME Church takes financial irregularities and disclosures seriously, and we are committed to the restoration of any impacted retirement funds," the statement said. “We are also committed to making every fund participant whole by restoring their full investment plus interest."

Jackson, 72, told The Associated Press in a phone interview that he feels betrayed.

“When you take advantage of my money, you lose my trust,” Jackson said. “You lose the trust of your employees.”

[truechatinc]

Smart Cities & the Problem With Solar Power's Land Grab

[wanderingaldecaldo]

Leaving Night City

For Snippet Sunday, a bit of No One’s Gonna Love You, Chapter 4. Fuck, am I proud of this chapter. There’s angst, comfort, some of my tightest prose, a really cool literary trick I’ve been wanting to use, and also what’s probably my best smut ever. (Smut not detailed below though maybe I should do a smutty Sunday post too... 🤔😏)

V takes advantage of the shitty motel’s indoor plumbing and showers in private one last time. She dawdles in the cool spray. Rolling out means Mitch is better, and her stomach trembles with nerves at seeing him in person for the first time since that day. Finally she steps out of the water and dresses, donning her favorite jeans and tank as well as her favorite sneakers she couldn’t part with. Last is the Aldecaldos jacket. She pulls it snug, checks herself in the mirror and, once satisfied, hauls the duffel that contains her life to the Javelina.

Panam’s waiting for her when she arrives, and they share a moment gazing at the city. There’s nothing left for her here, but there might be something in Arizona, or someone. She lingers for a moment before following Panam to her truck. She might be dying, but it sure as hell won’t be in Night City.

The nerves in her stomach have grown into knots and she’s glad for Panam’s conversation for distraction. As they drive through the solar station and enter Jackson Plains, a Coyote speeds by them on the left, its horn blaring.

“Panam!” Mitch’s voice on the radio makes V’s heart sing. “Girl, are you running from Night City or goin’ to your granny’s for cookies and milk? Gun it or that storm’ll catch ya!”

“Screw you!” Panam says as she laughs.

“Mitch! Hey!”

“Hey, V,” he answers softly; she can hear his smile.

“Good to hear you,” she says, her voice wavering. “How’s things?”

“Give me a month and I’ll be good as new. I told y’all I’d be fine, didn’t I?”

“Come on, Mitch, you weren’t nearly that confident after Mikoshi, none of us were. He was in bed for weeks, a vegetable,” she says as V didn’t know, as if she hadn’t been watching her agent for any sign of activity.

“Did save every one of our asses, though,” V says.

“Pity Saul’s not with us,” Panam says with a sigh, and it’s like a punch to the gut. “Or Teddy. Or Bobby. Or Scorpion....”

With each name another punch, until her chest is squeezed tight and she’s biting her lip to keep from crying. Turning to the window, she blinks away the tears that started to form and cranes her neck for one last glimpse at Night City. The late afternoon sun has receded behind the city and the shadows of the skyline stretch after them like brittle branches of a barren tree.

“They would’ve kicked your ass out of whack after that move with the panzer. Then hugged you until you puked.”

“I know, Panam, I know,” Mitch answers, forlorn.

“Gave us all a chance at a new start. Let’s not fuck it up,” V says, and she tries to keep her voice steady, as if she’s not the cause of their deaths, the reason Mitch had to do what he did.

“I’m glad you’re with us, V.” His voice is once again gentle. “See you soon.”

If Panam can forgive her, if Mitch can, then maybe one day she can forgive herself. The tears that were hovering just beneath the surface break through and she swipes at her eyes with her hand, and she’s thankful Panam hasn’t noticed and, for once, lets her ride in peace.

They follow his car to a clearing of solar panels with an antenna tower. As Panam stops the truck, the door to the Coyote opens and Mitch climbs out, one long leg then another then finally the rest of him and her stomach flips when his eyes find hers. His pace is slow yet deliberate and she follows his movements until his handsome face and beautiful eyes are in the window and he’s smiling at her—smiling, not smirking—and there’s something in the smile, the crinkle of his eyes that makes her heart flutter.

Mitch leans in and it’s déjà vu like that time right before Mikoshi when she couldn’t breathe and he’d held her hand and she closes her eyes as his lips meet hers and she’s the best thing he’s ever tasted and it doesn’t matter how long this headache lasts as long as it means V smiles at him that way.

After a long moment Mitch opens his eyes and pulls back, and V licks her kiss-swollen lips, her look disappointed as it dips to his mouth. Nice to see she missed him too. Her messages said she did, but nothing like a kiss for confirmation.

“Shall we get the fuck out of here?” he asks, beaming at her.

[joelsowlmug]

The Baldwin Mansion

taking these was painful but honestly, if I lived in Jackson I might vacation here. f*cking solar panels and it’s enclosed??? hello??? 

and it’s so much cleaner than all the other houses on patrol routes (I mean, it was clean...)

[caitsyoi]

I made a post about the Seraphites, so now I want to make one about the WLF. This post is mostly about the WLF's home base, aka the stadium and the area immediately around it. I've included some of my favorite pictures, and my thoughts and observations about where they live and their culture.

Under the cut again to keep things nice and clean.

I gotta say, this blew my mind when I first saw this as Abby. The WLF really have their shit together. Multiple power sources, a bunch of the resources FEDRA left behind, and multiple food sources. The field has cattle, sheep, and chickens plus some farming. On the steps they have even more areas for farming. They have a way to collect water, and even people to design and string up their logo everywhere.

It makes sense, supposedly thousands of people live here (you can't see it unless except via glitch, but there is also baseball stadium immediately next to this that they might also occupy).

We only see where Abby and other soldiers (perhaps squad leaders?) live. They have a pretty cushy life, two per luxury box (the rooms NFL teams overcharge for that run along the upper level of stadiums). Mel also mentions a special area for young families, I wouldn't be surprised if these areas were further divided. Perhaps there is also housing for larger families and single people who aren't soldiers or squad leaders. I very much wonder if those who join the military get better housing than those that work as farmers (or dishwashers, teachers, laundry washers, cooks, etc.). As mentioned earlier, Abby and Manny live in a luxury box, and there are 112 of those in the stadium this is based on. That's housing for 224 people, if they all live like the people in Abby's hallway. That would mean there has to be more housing in other parts of the stadium.

This stadium was once used by FEDRA, and you can see the concrete barriers they left behind along the edge of the field. They have to have more cattle than this, to feed all the people that supposedly live under the WLF. There is farmland around the stadium (more on that later), so maybe they mostly let them graze out there, then move some in when they plan on slaughtering them soon.

I love that they have wind turbines AND solar panels. You can see the influence that the Fireflies had on Issac and the WLF, they really focus on stability and restoring what was lost (at least when it comes to comfort). So they have electricity, sustainable food sources (and multiple kinds too), and a way to collect water (you can't see it in this shot, but they use a system similar to Jackson's, just on a much wider scale).

They teach a curriculum similar to what was taught to kids before the outbreak. We only see two classrooms, but from what I can tell they try to give the gives the type of education they could have received in the old days (as best they can, at least). Both the teachers you see are pretty young, which makes me wonder who taught them.

Most of the kinds you see in class are pretty young, like less than 10. These look a little order (they are outside the stadium in the market area, which I will talk about more a little later). I wonder how long WLF children are required to attend school (I think I saw a sign for 1st through 6th grade, so at least that?). I imagine they get a basic education with some broad looks into various topics, and maybe the ones most apt for study are selected to do specialized careers like teaching or meteorology. Other children are probably pushed into farming or the military portion of the WLF. Regardless of what they study, they probably also get a heavy dose of WLF propaganda. That aligns with how gung-ho many of them are to fight.

I wonder if military service is compulsory, like everyone has has to do at least so much time and then they can do other things if they want. Or maybe they make it so you don't have to fight if you don't want to, but those that do get better perks.

Most of the WLF you see appear to be in their 20's or 30's, or at least the fighters. That would mean they have spent most (if not all) of their lives under military rule, and they would have a special allegiance to the WLF since they manage things so much better than FEDRA did. Plus, you know, all that propaganda. I imagine they are told a lot about how the WLF is restoring society and how the WLF saved them from FEDRA/Scars/infected.

Sorta related, I thought of an WLF AU. Ellie grows up in Seattle under the WLF, perhaps with Riley and Dina and the other characters from canon. So many interesting things can be done with this, but that's for another post maybe.

This is one the cafeteria's the WLF use. I believe this is one of a few, although this is the only one you see. There is also a butcher and small market for clothing and items here too. They prepare food here, but I think the majority of cooking is done in an area set up for it in the stands.

They have posted meal times for groups A-F, and separate meal times for children and the late night patrol. So maybe this is the only cafeteria? Each end is blocked off, so maybe they use some of the corridor that circles the stadium for more living quarters.

This is also community space where they can play games, chat, or read. There also seems to be a mix of soldiers and other workers eating together, as well as young families (there is at least 1 or 2 women with young babies in here).

This little detail was super cute to me, but it also tells you a lot about WLF society. Everyone has a job to do, there is a role and place for everyone to contribute.

I'll talk more about this in another post (titled "It's Silly to Call a Post-apocalyptic Group 'Fascists', but Still the WLF Is Pretty Messed Up"), but an important thing to remember about the WLF is that everything comes down to Issac. He has the final say on everything, he makes all the major decisions, he picks squad leaders, he decides who needs to be punished, he's basically the Supreme Leader. Issac has been shown to be somewhat progressive with some things (you can follow whatever religion you want or none at all in the WLF, the WLF has no problem with LGBTQ people, you can get medical waivers for military duty, they provide support for pregnant women and parents, etc.), and in other ways he is very much the opposite (he punishes anyone who disagrees with him - this could be a relatively light punishment of a crappy assignment or it could be a beating, then there's the whole attempted genocide thing). Anyway, my point is that there are good things about the WLF, but also there is a serious darkside.

Anyway, when I saw this lady and her baby I immediately thought of Dina doing this with JJ while she gardens.

I absolutely loveeeee this little detail. A mural for the fallen. This really reminds me of some stuff you could see today, just replace the wolf with an eagle and make the uniforms camo.

There are 46ish names on this wall, so I wonder if it is continuously updated or if there are multiple murals, because they definitely have lost more people than that over the years. Also, there are about 150 people at the FOB (the amount of bodies at the FOB, yes I counted) that will need to be added. Maybe the war with the Seraphites just really exploded in the last few weeks (or maybe longer) leading up to Ellie's arrival.

I love that you can pause during the ride with Abby, Mel, and Manny to look around the outside of the stadium. Immediately outside there are train tracks and what appears to be a large market running along side of it. This is on the west side of the stadium, I believe. A major highway intersection is also nearby.

The market has all sorts of goods, food, gas, clothing, cleaning products, TVs and other electronics, records, and even more. I wonder if this is some sort of intake area for any goods they bring back to the base. But who runs these little shops? From some notes you can find we know their economy runs on trade, so how does this work?

Once you get past the market area, you see a pretty vast section of farmland. I loved this shot because it also shows one of their rain water storage areas. They mark this water as to be used only for irrigation, so they must use something else for people to drink and bathe with. Or maybe they just filter some water for people to use, and the rest goes to the plants.

In the background you can see the wall and a guard tower. There is a larger wall (like much larger, I'm talking maybe 5 stories) around the QZ, and a smaller one that runs around the stadium.

This is labeled "Checkpoint #4", so I'm not sure if that means there are other gates, but this is the only one we see in game.

The wall is pretty thick, and you can see these guard towers spaced out all alongside it (much like in Jackson). Once you leave the walls you are immediately surrounded by the wasteland that is post-apocalyptic Seattle.

[bopinion]

2022 / 14

Aperçu of the Week:

"Whoever fights can lose. He who does not fight has already lost."

(Bertolt Brecht)

Bad News of the Week:

Coal import ban: EU approves sanctions package against Russia

Meeting of foreign ministers in Brussels: NATO wants to supply more weapons

War on Ukraine: Russia admits "significant losses"

Butscha atrocities: BND (German intelligence agency) has insight into Russian responsibility

UN Human Rights Council: Russia's membership suspended

Poll: 45% of Germans want more decisive Ukraine policy

These were the top six headlines in German news outlets in one day. You could put it another way: The invasion of Ukraine completely dominates political action. And many measures against Russia run counter to other objectives. For example, energy policy is no longer oriented toward the expansion of renewable energy sources, but toward the desired independence from Russian imports. Obviously, you can't have it both ways in a hurry.

That's not really just bad news? Then here: China's restrictive Corona policy hits new lows, with infected babies separated from their parents, front doors welded shut, and paramilitary units hunting down people who (need to) just go shopping.

Good News of the Week:

My friends haven't had it easy with me lately. For in the face of the third parallel Crisis that has permanently shaken my solid worldview - first the self-evidence of health by Corona, then the self-evidence of security by a war in Europe, and always above all the self-evidence of my children's (survival) prospects on this planet by climate change, species extinction, pollution - I was on the way to becoming pessimistic. As I found it increasingly difficult to maintain my confidence that humanity would have enough insight to forego comfort, to ultimately successfully defy all these crises.

The just published third partial report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change is not limited to a scientific description of the situation. Yes, man-made climate change will lead to a warming of up to 4.4 degrees Celsius before the end of this century. That would be the apocalypse. But also the worst case scenario. After all, science cannot know how humanity will behave in the future - what it and its governments will do to contain the climate crisis. The current report attempts to describe just that in more detail: What are our options?

The next eight years are crucial for the way forward. That is the main message. Because the targets set by the states so far are not enough to limit the rise in temperature. The existing infrastructure of power plants and industrial facilities alone would be more than enough to consume the remaining carbon budget. The report clarifies the potential of individual measures, calculates dozens of scenarios, and makes the dimensions clear. The biggest benefits: Solar power, wind power and less forest destruction - these are the silver bullets in the fight against the climate crisis. Each of these options has the potential to avoid up to about ten percent of annual greenhouse gas emissions. Another advantage is that expansion is already economically viable or can be achieved at low additional cost. The cost of solar and wind energy and batteries for example has fallen by up to 85 percent since 2010.

All right, it can't be done without realizing targets that are - to put it innocuously - "ambitious" in view of the concrete implementations to date. But it can be done. Still. The apocalypse is avoidable. If we all do what is necessary. See Berthold Brecht.

That's not really just Good News? Then here: "It took 232 years and 115 previous appointments." Ketanji Brown Jackson became the first black female U.S. Supreme Court justice to be confirmed by the Senate.

Personal happy moment of the week:

On my way home from a stressful day the day before yesterday, which didn't even leave me time for a lunch break, I stopped at a supermarket to get some snack. And suddenly he was standing in front of me: one of my most important friends, whom I last saw seven months ago. It was only 15 seconds and a hug ("Sorry, the kids are waiting in the car..."), but it was that one important ray of sunshine that came through the gray clouds and brightened my gloom.

I couldn't care less...

...that Boris Becker was found guilty by a London jury on 4 of 24 charges. It's about fraud in connection with insolvency proceedings: Becker had tried to hide assets. The fact that this includes such obvious items as his parents' house or his first Wimbledon trophy can no longer be explained - as his lawyers tried - by naivety and laziness, but by audacity. And for that it does not belong to him otherwise.

As I write this...

...I think of the old saying "April - does what it will". Because today there were snowflakes. And tomorrow there will be 15 degrees Celsius. Crazy.

Post Scriptum:

In Europe, we've always found it strange that the U.S. bans surprise eggs on the grounds of "risk of injury to children" and not AR-15s. And now they actually turn out to be dangerous: Ferrero is recalling tens of thousands of its candies because of salmonella risk, and a plant in Belgium has been closed by health authorities. It is unfortunate that even after the next school massacre - which is as certain as the Amen in the church - there will not be a recall of semi-automatic handguns.