The white patches are exposed opal caches on Mars. The result could mean water for future Martians. Image by NASA
Diamonds can be made in a lab so perfectly that jewellers can’t tell the difference between a real and a fake. But a new cache of gemstones has been identified out of this world, on Mars, and these might be a kind of opal that only the red planet can produce. And the promise of opal, could mean water for future Martians.
A research team discovered the opals on the Martian surface using new methods from old data collected by NASA’s Curiosity rover. They verified opal, potentially serving as an important resource for human exploration.
In 2012, NASA sent the Curiosity rover to Mars to explore Gale Crater, a large impact basin with a massive, layered mountain in the middle. As Curiosity has traversed along the Mars surface, researchers saw light-toned rocks surrounding fractures that criss-cross certain parts of the Martian landscape, sometimes extending out far into the horizon of rover imagery.
Recent research into these rocks finds that these widespread halo networks served as one of the last, if not the last, water-rich environments in a modern era of Gale Crater. This water-rich environment in the subsurface would have also provided more habitable conditions when conditions on the surface were likely much more harsh.
Mars rover, Curiosity
As part of a new study published in the Journal of Geophysical Research: Planets, led by former Arizona State University NewSpace Postdoctoral Fellow Travis Gabriel, now a research physicist at the U.S. government, archival data from several instruments were examined and showed considerable anomalies near light-toned rocks earlier in the traverse.
Curiosity rover drove right over one of these fracture halos many years ago, long before Gabriel and ASU graduate student and co-author Sean Czarnecki joined the rover team.
“Our new analysis of archival data showed striking similarity between all of the fracture halos we’ve observed much later in the mission,” Gabriel said. “Seeing that these fracture networks were so widespread and likely chock-full of opal was incredible.
The path of opals on Mars
Gabriel and his team of researchers studied the composition of light-colored rocks surrounding the fractures on the ground, or fracture halos, in Gale Crater. Previous studies Gabriel was involved in used the rover’s laser-induced breakdown spectrometer, Chemistry and Camera, or ChemCam, to show that these halos may be composed of opal, a material that has important implications for the history of Gale Crater.
Opal itself contains a large amount of water, which produced a strong signal in another instrument on the rover: the DAN spectrometer.
Observing drill cores taken at the Buckskin and Greenhorn drill sites many years into the mission, scientists confirmed that these light-toned rocks were very unique compared to anything the team had seen before.
“These light-toned rocks were lighting up in our neutron detector, producing anomalously high thermal neutron count rates,” Gabriel said.
In addition to looking back through archival data, Gabriel and his team went searching for opportunities to study these light-toned rocks again. Once they arrived at the Lubango drill site, a bright-toned fracture halo, Gabriel led a dedicated measurement campaign using the neutron spectrometer, confirming the opal-rich composition of fracture halos.
The discovery of opal is noteworthy as it can form in scenarios where silica is in solution with water, a similar process to dissolving sugar or salt in water. If there is too much salt, or conditions change, it begins to settle at the bottom. On Earth, silica falls out of solution in places like lake and ocean bottoms and can form in hot springs and geysers, somewhat similar to the environments at Yellowstone National Park.
Water-rich environments in the subsurface of Mars could have provided a safe haven from the harsh conditions on Mars’ surface, which is rather inhospitable compared to Earth. In Gale Crater, temperatures can go below minus 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter night time, reaching only up to roughly 30 degrees Fahrenheit in the warmest of afternoons. Gale crater also experiences far more radiation than the surface of Earth due to our much thicker atmosphere. Every day spent in Gale crater would expose you to a cosmic-source radiation dose that roughly equates to a daily pelvis X-ray.
Since scientists expect that this opal in Gale Crater was formed in a modern Mars era, these subsurface networks of fractures could have been far more habitable than the harsh modern-day conditions at the surface.
“Given the widespread fracture networks discovered in Gale Crater, it’s reasonable to expect that these potentially habitable subsurface conditions extended to many other regions of Gale Crater as well, and perhaps in other regions of Mars,” Gabriel said. “These environments would have formed long after the ancient lakes in Gale Crater dried up.”
The significance of finding opal on Mars will have advantages for future astronauts, and exploration efforts could take advantage of these widespread water resources. Opal itself is made up of predominantly two components: silica and water, with minor amounts of impurities such as iron. Since opal is not a mineral, the water is not bound as tightly within a crystal structure. This means that if you grind it down and apply heat, the opal releases its water. In a previous study, Gabriel and other Curiosity rover scientists demonstrated this exact process.
Although Gabriel and his team aren’t able to perform an exhaustive assessment of the water content in all halos, the dedicated neutron experiments they performed over two of these halos demonstrate that a single-meter halo could house roughly one to 1.5 gallons of water in the top foot of the surface.
Home heating options are important now that the cost for winter heating is rising through the roof.
We all want to do our best to live more sustainably but preferably without costing our comfort. Thankfully, as technology develops, there are more and more ways in which we can take a greener approach to heating our homes without compromising on warmth.
Even if you are happy with your current type of heating system, it’s a good idea to make sure it’s still up to scratch. Old boilers or furnaces are even worse for the environment, since as they get older they become less efficient, meaning they use up more energy. If you’re ready to update your boiler and reduce your carbon footprint (as well as your energy bills!).
If you’re not sure yet about which kind of boiler or heating system you’d like for your home, we’ve got you covered! Below are some of the most eco-friendly options currently available for you to consider:
Heat pumps
Through the transfer of heat to or from an external source, heat pumps offer low-carbon heating and cooling for your home. There are numerous types of heat pumps from which you can choose for your home. They all function in a similar way, but their use of different heat sources affects each one’s performance and cost.
Air source heat pumps and ground source heat pumps are the most popular types. Heat pumps of all varieties are extremely effective, with levels between 300 and 400 percent.
Air source heat pumps are the cheapest of the two and also require the least amount of space. They work best in milder climates, since in colder weather they have to work harder to maintain the same temperature which will in turn increase the running costs.
On the other hand, ground source heat pumps can still work efficiently despite cold weather. This is because they are installed underground where the temperature is relatively constant all year round. Unfortunately, this does come at a cost though, since ground source heat pumps are one of the most expensive options and require a lot of space.
Micro-CHP Systems
So what exactly is a micro-CHP system? Micro-CHP (combined heat and power) technology is able to produce both electricity and heat at the same time. This heating system has really taken off in Japan, where around 230,000 are currently in operation. And as the technology develops, this popularity is likely to increase around other parts of the world.
Micro-CHP systems are not considered to be a renewable energy system, as they are typically powered by fossil fuels. However, they are still viewed as a low carbon alternative to many other types of heating systems, therefore, reducing your carbon footprint.
In addition to this, green energy suppliers that provide 100% renewable energy are becoming more common, so an alternative to powering a micro-CHP system with fossil fuels may already be available to you.
Biomass Boilers
Another alternative to traditional unsustainable heating systems is a biomass boiler. Biomass is biological material obtained from living organisms such as plants. Biomass can be used in a variety of ways to produce heat: directly via combustion, or indirectly after being converted into another type of fuel such as methane, ethanol, or biodiesel.
If you already have a gas or oil boiler, switching to a biomass boiler will be simple because it operates similarly but with less carbon production.
If you decide to use a biomass boiler, it’s vital to keep in mind that you will need room in your home to store the fuel and that the cost of the fuel may differ depending on where you’re located.
Electric Combi Boiler
Another easy switch to make is an electric combi boiler. New boiler costs can vary depending on many factors, but electric combi boilers tend to be one of the cheaper options as they don’t require any extra tanks or cylinders. This also means electric combi boilers fit well with homes that want to make the most of their space and don’t have a high hot water demand.
Electric boilers also have efficiency ratings of 99-100%, which is higher than your average gas boiler or furnace. With that being said, it’s important to make sure that your electricity is coming from a green supplier so you know that it is actually coming from a renewable source. Alternatively, you could also consider installing solar pv panels to your own home!
Oil rig workers have to avoid hazards to themselves and the environment. If an oil spill happens and you are on the job this is what you need to do. Sometimes your boss has an interest to let it slide.
Oil field workers have some of the most physically and mentally demanding jobs on the planet. However, with such high levels of risk comes the potential for accidents, injuries, or even fatalities. While oilfield work often pays better than traditional nine to five employment in the corporate world, you may be responsible for your health and safety while out in remote landscapes, often alone. Read on to learn about various rights and options available after an accident during oil field work so that you can make informed decisions about how best to protect yourself in the future.
Notify Your Employer
As soon as possible after an accident, make sure to alert your employer to the situation. In some cases, you may have time constraints for reporting a work-related injury or illness; states like Pennsylvania require that injuries be reported within 120 days of the incident, so it’s best not to delay notifying your superiors.
Notifying your employer is vital for ensuring that you receive the treatment and care you need to recover, but it’s also a critical step in protecting your rights. If your injury or illness forces you away from work, you may be entitled to compensation through workers’ compensation benefits.
Seek Medical Attention
In the event of an injury or illness, prompt medical attention is essential for minimizing the potential for long-term damage. Serious injuries, such as those involving head trauma, broken bones, and puncture wounds, should always be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible. Likewise, if you’re exposed to certain types of hazardous materials on the job, you should conduct toxicity screenings to determine whether or not you’ve been exposed. Some employers may provide medical care for their workers, but if yours doesn’t, you should still seek treatment from a qualified doctor of your own accord.
Know Your Rights
It’s essential to understand your state’s various labor laws and regulations. Every state has its unique set of laws, so you must familiarize yourself with your specific rights as an oil field worker. For instance, many states require employers to carry workers’ compensation insurance for accidents or injuries. This type of insurance covers medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs that may arise from an accident. Contact them if you’re unsure whether your employer carries this coverage.
You can also file a personal injury claim in an oil field accident. This type of claim is designed to cover pain and suffering and legal fees associated with the case. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you navigate this process and get the compensation you need and deserve.
Seek Compensation
If you’ve been injured or become ill while working in an oil field, you may be entitled to pursue compensation from your employer. Depending on the extent of your injuries and the severity of your illness, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits, disability payments, or even a negligence lawsuit against your employer.
In some cases, you may receive compensation through a third-party claim. Reputable oilfield accident attorneys can help you understand your options and can guide you on filing for workers’ compensation benefits or pursuing a lawsuit. You should also be aware that filing for workers’ compensation does not preclude you from seeking other forms of compensation.
No matter your situation, it’s important to take the time to fully understand your legal rights as an oil field worker so that you can make an informed decision about how best to protect yourself in the future. You can protect your rights and interests with the proper knowledge and resources.
Love Canal USA is a story where a chemical company participated in building a neighborhood on top of a chemical storage tank. Children and families got sick. It didn’t end well.
Removing an underground storage tank (UST) is challenging and intimidating; it requires specialized skills and knowledge, not to mention specific safety protocols that you must follow. If you’re contemplating taking this on yourself, here are some tips to make the process easier.
1. Check the Local Regulations
The local government regulates underground storage tanks. Before you get started, research your area’s regulations to ensure that you’re following all the required steps and staying compliant with the law. It is also essential to research any permit requirements necessary for the removal job. The paperwork can be extensive and time-consuming, so give yourself enough time to get through it. If there are any special requirements or regulations you need to be aware of, consider them as you plan your UST removal job.
2. Survey the Site
Before removing a UST, surveying the site and performing a few safety checks is important. Make sure there are no utilities running through the area, such as gas lines, electrical wires, and water mains. It is also important to note any other environmental hazards that may be present on the site, such as nearby bodies of water or underground septic tanks.
3. Hire Experts
Removing an underground storage tank is a complex task that requires specialized skills and knowledge. Before attempting to do it yourself, consider hiring an underground storage tank removal service to handle the job. Not only will they have the experience necessary to do the job safely and efficiently, but they can also help ensure that all regulations are followed. With the help of experienced professional service, you can rest assured that your UST will be removed with minimal disruption to your property and the environment.
4. Have a Plan for Leaks
If you are removing an old or damaged UST, it is crucial to have a plan to deal with potential leaks. Have the necessary safety equipment and absorbent materials to address any spills quickly. It is also vital to ensure that the area surrounding the UST is appropriately sealed off before beginning work. This will help reduce the risk of hazardous materials leaching into the ground and contaminating the surrounding soil or groundwater.
5. Take Care of Contaminated Soil
If the UST has been leaking, some contaminated soil will likely be around it. Make sure to dispose of this material per local regulations properly. Sometimes, you may need to hire a remediation company to help assess and clean up contamination before the removal job begins. This can be especially important if the contamination poses a risk to the health and safety of nearby residents. You may also need to hire a professional to test the soil before and after removing the UST. This can help ensure that all contamination has been adequately addressed and that the area is safe for future use.
Following these five tips can help you safely and efficiently remove your UST. Remember to do your research, plan, hire experts when necessary, and take care of any contaminated soil. Doing so can help ensure that the job is done quickly and properly, with minimal disruption to you or the environment.
Turmeric and a medley of spices lowered blood pressure in a study
Turmeric is a much-loved spice in the Middle East which can be bought in fresh fingers and added to shakes, soups and smoothies. We know that turmeric is good for blood health and against arthritis but research suggests that turmeric, when taken with other spices may help regulate a healthy blood pressure.
In a controlled-feeding study, the researchers found that seasoning foods with 6.5 grams, or about 1.3 teaspoons, of herbs and spices a day was linked with lower blood pressure after four weeks. Penny Kris-Etherton, Evan Pugh University Professor of Nutritional Sciences, and Kristina Petersen, assistant professor of nutritional sciences at Texas Tech University and co-principal investigator of the study while at Penn State, said the findings offer people a simple way to help improve their heart health.
“Adding herbs and spices to your food is a great way to add flavor without adding extra sodium, sugar or saturated fat,” Kris-Etherton said. “And, if you go a step further and add these seasonings to foods that are really good for you, like fruits and vegetables, you can potentially get even more health benefits by consuming that extra produce.”
According to the researchers, cardiometabolic diseases like heart disease, strokes and type two diabetes continue to be one of the leading causes of death in the United States. One of the ways health professionals aim to improve heart health is by monitoring and improving blood pressure.
One way people can improve their blood pressure is by limiting their sodium intake, usually by adding less salt to their meals. Petersen said that while people have long been encouraged to season their food with herbs and spices instead of salt to boost flavor without added sodium, less was known about whether herbs and spices have health benefits of their own.
A turmeric blood pressure smoothie
“As nutritionists, we’re interested in new ways we can use diet to benefit health, and cardiovascular health in particular,” Petersen said. “We were curious about how herbs and spices could affect heart health, since they are versatile and can be added to many different types of food.”
For the study, the researchers recruited 71 people with risk factors for heart disease. Every participant consumed every spice diet — one low, one moderate, and one high in herbs and spices — in a random order for four weeks each, with a two-week break between each diet period. Blood samples were drawn from each participant at the beginning of the study as well as after each diet period.
All three diets were based on an average American diet — reflective of what a typical American consumes in a day — but with three different doses of herbs and spices added. The low-dose, medium-dose and high-dose diets included approximately 0.5 grams, 3.2 grams and 6.5 grams of herbs and spices, respectively, a day.
The doses included a blend of 24 different herbs and spices, ranging from basil and thyme to cinnamon and turmeric, designed to simulate the way people use different herbs and spices throughout the day while cooking.
The researchers found that after consuming the diet including a high dose of herbs and spices, participants had lower systolic blood pressure than after the diet with the medium dose. Participants also had lower diastolic blood pressure after the diet with a high dose of herbs and spices than after the diet with a low dose.
Kris-Etherton said the results — recently published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition — were especially exciting to her because the diets in the study were not designed to be specifically heart healthy, and only differed from an average diet by the amount of herbs and spices added.
“I think it’s really significant that participants consumed an average American diet throughout the study and we still found these results,” Kris-Etherton said. “We didn’t decrease sodium, we didn’t increase fruits and vegetables, we just added herbs and spices. It begs the next question that if we did alter the diet in these ways, how much better would the results be?”
The researchers said that in the future, additional studies designed to incorporate herbs and spices into a healthy dietary pattern lower in salt, added sugars and solid fats could help guide future dietary recommendations.
The importance of recognizing and valuing the different roles on a team teamwork is essential for achieving success in any organization. When team members work together effectively, they can achieve more than they could individually. However, the success of a team depends on the contributions of each member. In order to maximize the potential of a team, it is important to recognize and value the different roles and contributions of each member.
Recognizing and Valuing the Different Roles on a Team
Every team member brings unique strengths and perspectives to the table. Understanding the different roles and contributions of each team member can help to ensure that the team is utilizing the strengths of each member effectively. Some common roles that team members may play include leader, problem-solver, and planner
Leaders are responsible for guiding the team and providing direction. They may also be responsible for facilitating communication and decision-making within the team. Problem-solvers are skilled at identifying and addressing challenges and finding creative solutions. Planners are skilled at organizing and coordinating tasks and activities.
By understanding the strengths and contributions of each team member, team leaders and managers can ensure that the team is utilizing the strengths of each member effectively. This can lead to increased efficiency and productivity.
Social loafer extraordinaire
The Negative Impact of Social Loafers
What is a social loafer? When some team members are not pulling their weight, it can have a negative impact on the team as a whole. This phenomenon is known as social loafing.
Social loafing refers to the tendency for individuals to decrease their efforts when working in a group. This can occur when individuals feel that their contributions are not being recognized or valued, or when they feel that their efforts are not having a significant impact on the outcome.
The negative impact of social loafing can be significant. When some team members are not pulling their weight, it can lead to increased workload and stress for other team members. This can lead to decreased morale and productivity, and can ultimately impact the success of the team.
Strategies for Addressing Social Loafing
So, how can organizations and team leaders address social loafing and ensure that all team members are contributing their best efforts? Here are a few strategies:
Encourage active participation from all team members. By actively involving all team members in decision-making and problem-solving, you can help to ensure that everyone feels a sense of ownership and responsibility for the success of the team.
Recognize and reward individual and team achievements. By recognizing and rewarding the contributions of each team member, you can help to foster a sense of ownership and increase motivation.
Foster open and transparent communication. By creating an open and transparent communication environment, you can help to build trust and encourage active participation from all team members.
Set clear goals and expectations. By setting clear goals and expectations, you can help team members to understand their roles and responsibilities within the team. This can help to increase accountability and encourage active participation.
Encourage teamwork and collaboration. By fostering a sense of teamwork and collaboration, you can help to create a positive and supportive environment that encourages active participation from all team members.
Conclusion
In conclusion, recognizing and valuing the different roles and contributions of each team member is essential for maximizing the potential of a team. By understanding the strengths and contributions of each team member, team leaders and managers can ensure that the team is utilizing the strengths of each member effectively. However, it is also important to address the negative impact of social loafing in order to ensure that all team members are contributing their best efforts. By using strategies such as encouraging active participation, recognizing and rewarding achievements, fostering open communication, setting clear goals, and encouraging teamwork and collaboration, you can create a positive and supportive environment that encourages active participation from all team members.
Stay in Beit Zafran Hotel de Charme (Saffron House), a traditional Ottoman palace, in Syria
Even before the Arab Spring and the conflict of 2011 tore Syria apart, most likely because of a water crisis, it wasn’t a country well-travelled by tourists. Instagramming experiences hadn’t started yet and Syria, seemingly, wasn’t well set up for long-haul travelling or as a destination site. But as the Middle East opens its arms to the world and Syria attempts to heal its wounds from a decade of civil war, there is plenty of new worlds and cultures to explore.
I travelled to Syria more than 20 years ago and I could say the experience felt like travelling in a time machine. I guess it’s the same feeling for tourists who visit Cuba or East Germany after these places had been somewhat detached from the world. During my trip I crossed over from Turkey into Aleppo, and it was a new world. Sweet people looking for connecting, age old sites with very few visitors, and cars from generations ago. We were invited for meals and Syrians brought us into their homes, eager for conversations with outsiders.
One of the best memories I had was being locked into a Crusader castle for the night where we could roam with the ghosts. It was just me and Cara, together, and common sense should tell two women travellers to never do such a thing but my Spidie senses told me that Syria is safe for women and that we were protected.
Over in Syria, where tourism is opening once again, you can get a chance to visit these Ottoman estates, frozen in time. We stayed at some magical estates when we travelled through Aleppo and Damascus and if you are looking for some off-beat travel, try travelling to Syria.
A Swiss-Syrian couple sent us updated images of a boutique hotel they run in Damascus called the Beit Zafran Hotel de Charme. The couple also runs a tour company that can set you up with some local, sustainable travel options though when we were there it was pretty easy getting around by dolmus, or the mini-bus commonly used in the Middle East.
A suite at Beit ZafranA bedroom at Beit Zafran. Notice the poured concrete tiles typical of the region?Reception and inner fountain
Adnan Habab and Gabriela Wengert write: “We are a quiet urban hideaway tucked in a historical neighborhood of churches, mosques, souks (old bazaars) and winding streets. Once you step inside the home, the house’s charm and sophistication are unmistakable.”
A jacuzzi at Beit Zafran
The meticulously restored Ottoman mansion (built in 1836) was remade true to its authentic form: its 12 exquisite rooms and suites are built around the house’s two inner courtyards with their magnificent original marble fountains and the scent of jasmine.
Getting to Beit Zafran in Damascus
The “liwan” (a long narrow-fronted hall or vaulted portal in ancient and modern Levantine homes that is often open to the outside) with its original wooden ceiling and stucco decoration is a seating area open to the courtyard where you can escape the heat and buzz of Damascus.
Damascus is the southern-most city of Syria, founded in the 3rd millennium BCE. It was an important cultural and commercial centre, by virtue of its geographical position at the crossroads of the orient and the occident, between Africa and Asia. The old city of Damascus is considered to be among the oldest continually inhabited cities in the world.
Khaybar Volcano Glamping, a night scene of the eco camp in Saudi Arabia
Vast swathes of the Middle East were either once seas, or explosive volcanoes or both. Now that Saudi Arabia’s ruling family has decided to open up Saudi Arabia to the Western world, it is opening up some of the most untouched places on earth including their ancestral home, a palace made from mud. One of the new sites to open to tourists at the spectacular region of Alulu is the Khaybar Volcano Camp. Sleep under the stars, for $500 a night.
The luxury glamping site, being marketed as an eco-lodge, opened in December late 2022 and it’s situated on the landscape of an ancient, dormant volcano called the Harrat Khaybar. It is being touted as one of the most untouched places on earth. If you are new to Saudi Arabia and Alula, start here.
Archeologists are rushing into the area to study ancient and near history in the Khaybar Harrat area and are forming new theories of civilization from the region. They found desert kites created by ancient trappers, and strange burial mounds meant for travellers. If you are an aspiring archaeologist, Saudi Arabia is the place to rush in.
The Khaybar Volcano Camp is at the heart of it all, at one of the rarest lava fields in Saudi Arabia which has seen traces of people living there over the years. The region is full of monumental archaeological evidence, prehistoric monuments (see the desert kites), rare geological landmarks, lush oases, and lava caves that have existed with and without us for millions of years.
Think Saudi Arabia doesn’t have a history? Think again. Meet it along with locals at the Khaybar Volcano Camp. Started there the region will be accessible to travelers who desire nature and history, over let’s say fake moons and flying taxis (another tourism direction for Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.)
Interview of the glamping experience in Saudi Arabia
Cultural activities, mythical storytelling, evening stargazing, wellness programming, balloon flights (tethered), and trekking to geological wonders and touring the ancient ruins are some of the activities offered at the volcano resort. Cost? About $1000 USD for a couple for 2 nights, including meals.
Ten luxury tents with ensuite bathrooms (which is now known as glamping) feature upscale furnishings and creature comforts. Natural, local ingredients make up the meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner. As for “eco” credentials beyond the organic food –– you can look into it when you are there. How do they get their power, where does water come from? Where does waste go? What are the hiring and work policies at the resort? These are some questions you can ask when you go.
Saudi Arabia isn’t the first to start volcano travelling. Costa Rica and Sicily both have active volcanoes and an active group of tourists who flock to these places for some geological action. Over in Israel, Beresheet Hotel, is a luxury hotel overlooking the Ramon crater formed by a retracting sea. That’s what NASA says, after theories of meteorites and volcanoes were quashed. You might need a trust fund however to afford staying at this place.
Another nature option for the budget traveller is to sail across the Red Sea to Sinai, Egypt and hike and trek to God’s mountain with a local Bedouin guide who will bring tents and a full camp/semi-glamp experience for a fraction of the price.
More on Harrat Khaybar
Harrat Khaybar is one of Saudi Arabia’s largest volcanic fields, covering an area of more than 10,000 square miles, and found north of Medina. An 80 mile vent system contains felsic lava domes, tuff rings, the Jabal Qidr stratovolcano, and numerous small basaltic cones. At least seven of the ancient lava flows are young at less than 4,500 years old, and another eight are less than 1,500 years old. An eruption was reported in the early Mohammedan times during the 7th Century.
Think differently when you travel. Instead of sightseeing, try fishing at the Sea of Galilee
These days traveling abroad for leisure or business isn’t just about checking off the must-see sights of any town or city. Getting out into the country, into nature and into the wild is gaining more appeal as people travel and linger longer, preferring to meet locals instead of just museums and famous landmarks. We want an immersive, meaningful experience. And seeing as we are expert level on Israel, we’ve put together a list of 10 must see ecological sites in Israel, the Holy Land.
Some from our list are a bit like a secret –– known to insiders but often missed by tourists.
If you are a first timer to Israel you can’t miss Jerusalem and the Old City, the Wailing Wall, Dome of the Rock. You won’t miss floating in the Dead Sea, trekking Masada (it was a tella novella!), bathing in Ein Gedi or jumping into the Sea of Galilee. If you have more than a week you will head down to the Red Sea and then spend a few days in Sinai. And if you are lucky to have a few weeks, it’s more than enough time to catch some spots on our list.
Ofer guided us recently to the jaw-dropping caves at Beit Guvrin. Though I’d lived in Israel for 20 years I’d never seen this UNESCO-protected World Heritage Site. So I checked in with Ofer to see what else I’d been missing in Israel. Turns out a lot.
Annual Bird Migration at the Mishmar HaSharon Reservoir
Pelicans in the Hula nature reserve, Yaniv Cohen
Want to see magnificent birds soar, nest, make v-formations or paint pictures in the sky? Bird watchers everywhere: It’s happening twice a year in the Spring and the Fall during the big bird migration. Plan ahead a bit to catch this natural wonder. Israel lies on a geological fault-line called the Syrian-African Rift. This long line of rock funnels the birds from Africa in the Spring to fly along Israel’s Mediterranean Coast, stopping along the way for food and drink as they head to Europe. The Mishmar HaSharon Reservoir is the alternate “bird refueling station” to the popular Hula Valley. And it’s where birds come to eat, drink, rest and party.
The Nature and Parks Authority, working in conjunction with the Ministry of Agriculture’s Fisheries Department, populates the reservoir with fish that are not intended for sale – just for pelicans. Catch the pelicans in action. But call ahead before you travel or work with a local guide so you don’t miss the timing. Bird migrations can also be spotted if you are in Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Turkey around these times of the year.
The Bell Caves at Bet Guvrin
Bet Guvrin, dovecoats and caves
If you have ever traveled to Turkey and seen the caves and cave-dwellers of Cappadocia, imagine something similar here but in caves underground. The Bell Caves in Israel are part of an ancient Biblical City called Marasha and the caves are carved chalk and lime quarries that were multifunctional –– as homes, burial caves, storerooms and dovecoats. Doves were raised there to sell to pilgrims as sacrifices they could make in Jerusalem.
The caves are something that your body will feel and enjoy as you imagine people from the past excavating the caves for chalk and blocks for building homes. You can see handwork etched into the walls of the caves. Ancient columbarium, another word for dovecoats (see below), can be explored underground in a network of about 500 caves at this National Park.
Like all National Parks in Israel, call in advance before you travel in case limits to entry are set. Closures can coincide with Jewish holidays of which there are many. Here is the Parks website.
These caves are lovely to explore on a hot day. You can feel the power of natural cooling, passive energy in effect.
Sharon Beach Nature Reserve
Sharon Beach Nature Reserve, image via A Tiny Trip
The Sharon Beach Nature Reserve can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There is no entrance fee but locals will know the best places to start your walk. The walk starts along the cliffs of the Sharon Beach, north of Tel Aviv. In February you can see lilies, in the summer possibly nude bathers. Don’t be alarmed. The trails are hidden gems that tourists don’t really get to explore. If you are with babies, toddlers or access-impaired, the trails aren’t stroller or wheelchair friendly.
Over all the trail offers an easy family hike for 2 to 3 hours, with small hills along the way and the option to go down to the beach at the start or end of the hike. The views and sea air make it all worthwhile. This trip is suggested if you are a hiking family in the Tel Aviv area looking for something close and easy to do for a half day hike. Hiking in summer months June to September should be done either early morning or late afternoon as it gets too sunny and hot on the beach during those times. Pack lots of water.
The Yarkon National Park is divided into two parts: Tel Afek area (and the Antipatris ruins) and the Yarkon Sources area, Together they constitute a green lung and an island of tranquility in the middle of the most populated Sharon region in Israel. In this beautiful and tranquil national park you’ll find the clean Yarkon Stream with abundant water lilies, a wading pool, a charming lake and an ancient fortress with a view of the region. The Yarkon Source center is on the Hod HaSharon – Petah Tikva road, between the Yarkon and Segula Intersections.
Tel Afek, also spelled Aphek and Afeq, is an archaeological site located in the coastal area of the Ein Afek Nature Reserve, east of Kiryat Bialik, Israel. It is also known as Tel Kurdani.
Visiting this location requires a reservation which can be done through a licensed tour guide or through this website. Venture to the Hayarkon Park in Tel Aviv. It’s an ecotourism site for exploring water, local animals,, art and history. It’s Israel’s version of Central Park, a nice place where you can be an active fly-on-the-wall and watch and join Israelis jogging, cycling, roller blading, skateboarding, kayaking, mountain climbing, and frisbee throwing. They also love to do acrobatics, acrobalance, and circus performing, with cute dogs and barbecues welcome. Starting from Tel Aviv’s Old Port, the park opens out into wide fields and a large lake as you get closer to the city of Ramat Gan. Start exploring by foot. Or rent a city bike, similar to the ones like Velo in Paris.
Visit Abraham’s Holy Land boundary
Tel Sheva, near Beersheba, where Abraham dug his well.
Don’t miss the southern limits of the Biblical Promised Land and the simplicity of Tel Sheva, located near a Bedouin town in Israel’s south with the same name, Tel as-Sabi in Arabic.
Nearby the ancient city of Beersheba you will see a wall and a double gate system. According to the Bible this is where Abraham first pitched his tent and dug a water well at Beersheba, a wilderness location identified in the Scriptures as the southern limit of the Promised Land. A nice history of the wall can be read here.
Visit the Canyon of Faces in Timna Park
Geologists say Timna Park is one of the Middle East’s top attractions for geological interest, and multicolored sand, combined with its towering sandstone pillars. Image via Getty.
It’s not exactly the Alamo or Jordan’s lost city of Petra, but the mountains of Timna Park do delight.
Timna Park is a hiker’s paradise and offers approximately 25 hiking trails, most of which are short (20 to 60 minute treks) and are suitable for the whole family. A minority of trails are challenging and intended for professional hikers. The trails pass through various Park sites such as the Mushroom, Pillars of Solomon, and other stunning geological formations.
Explore the park on foot and visit the Canyon of Faces with its many geological formations that nature has created in the rocks, climb Mount Timna or walk from Spiral Hill to the Valley of Rock Paintings and the Chariots.
If you were a farmer in ancient Jerusalem, you have a couple of choices with the rocky land you inherited from your father: find a new location with less rock and problems, or clear the rocks on the hills and farm there. With little water or fertile land the ancients made do.
Some of the earliest terraces in the Southern Levant areas, including the ones around Jerusalem, were probably used for the cultivation of grapes, olives, pomegranates and figs. Grapes grown for wine might have been wine used at the Holy Temple. And farming wasn’t easy back then: most farming on the terraced areas of the Judean Mountains was done without artificial irrigation. Remains of ancient farmers can be found and explored best around Sataf. This village has agricultural terraces that have been restored and you can find vines and olive, fig, pomegranate and almond trees. Hiking trails are laid out along the way to create an outdoor “foots-on” museum of ancient agriculture. Look for Nahal Sorek when out. Locals set up interesting and cosy cafes and restaurants around the region.
Also you can’t leave Israel without forming some opinion about something. There is debate over the age of the terraces that challenge the “ancient” narrative. Some saying they are relatively young, about as old as the Ottoman empire in Israel. Start with this article to hear another side.
Watch Sea Turtles Released
The Sea Turtle Rescue Center in Israel releases a turtle they will be monitor. Via AP
Israel is home to a healthy sea turtle population that maintains nests along the Mediterranean beaches. The best way to find turtle sightings is to contact the Sea Turtle Rescue Center and they can advise on the best times and current locations for finding turtle hatching grounds.
The rescue center works to rehabilitate sea turtles on a number of levels:
Treatment and rehabilitation of injured sea turtles and their reintroduction to the wild in the Eastern Mediterranean. Be there for a release.
Physical protection of the eggs laid on beaches and in reproduction areas.
Protection of the marine environment and the beaches and statutory declaration of marine and beach areas as marine reserves.
The Hazur Stream and Nimrod’s Fortress in the Golan Heights
Nimrod’s Fortress, a Crusader-era Medieval castle in Israel. The Crusaders fortified the Arab fortress of Kil’at Subeiba (“Large cliff”), located 6KM above the city, calling it by the Biblical name – Nimrod Fortress.
The Hazur Stream is about 3 miles long and is found in the northern part of the Golan Heights. It is a tributary of the Govta Stream, which is one of the sources of the Banias Stream. The trail begins near the Druze village of Majdal Shams but there are challenging hiking trails that guide you along the river and which are leading around the area to Nimrod’s Fortress. The fortress is named after a biblical hero, the hunter Nimrod (Genesis 10:8 to 9) who, according to local tradition, dwelt on this summit. The Nimrod Fortress is the biggest Crusade-era castle in all of Israel, a mountain-top stronghold spanning back to the 13th century.
Follow the banks of the Hazur stream and find a thick Mediterranean grove, which includes oak, Terebinth, Judas trees and True Laurel. By the end of the winter and the beginning of the spring meet strong water and waterfalls along the way. At the end of the summer and in the fall you can find minor waterfalls that can still be enjoyed through caverns of shade created by the thick underbrush. The area is magical.
Getting there: Majdal Shams is a Druze town in the southern foothills of Mount Hermon, north of the Golan Heights, known as the informal “capital” of the Golan Heights. The majority of residents are Syrian Druze. Take highway 6 to Majdal Shams and you are there in about 2.5 hours.
Medical cannabis, unlike crypto, is a real product with real medical benefits. Learn how to invest.
Cannabis is still illegal under federal law in the United States. But many states have already embraced its advantages. In recent years, cannabis-use legalization policies have sped up along with the uptrend in the number of users. Statistics show that about four million Americans use cannabis. And we can guess those numbers are probably a lot higher especially when it comes to recreational use. Indeed, it has overcome prejudices to become one of the most popular therapeutic options.
The global cannabis market is growing and sprawling like a weed (no pun intended). It may expand by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 24.3 percent, reaching $82.3 billion by 2027. With its growth prospects, investors and businesses are optimistic about its future trends. It’s no wonder they’re geared toward cannabis stock investing.
As an entrepreneur, you may seize this opportunity to grow your cash reserves. If you’re also interested, carrying out these steps are vital.
Reassess Your Financial Capacity
Sure, you want to generate more returns and raise your capital. It may help you expand your operating capacity, Yet, you must sustain your operations and cover payables.
Answer these questions. Will there be enough cash left after reinvesting a portion of it? Do I have to borrow to ensure adequate capacity? If the answer is a yes and a no, think twice before proceeding with your plan. Investing in a risky business, means you will need to be okay with losing it all.
Market volatility stays overwhelming even after the recent inflation lull. Interest rates continue to skyrocket, making borrowing costs burdensome. While investing can be promising, liquidity should always be your top priority.
Identify the Types of Cannabis Products
CBD is a natural medicine that can have a profound affect on mediating pain and anxiety.
Due to different views among the states, the reason for the legalization of cannabis varies with its uses. Cannabis is processed either as a medical or recreational product. You will hear words like CBD and THC.
Medical cannabis is legal in 36 US States, three territories, and the District of Columbia. Additionally, over forty countries authorize its medicinal uses. It’s often used to relieve anxiety, depression, stress, and even epilepsy. Even so, one must secure a prescription from a qualified healthcare provider before obtaining it.
Meanwhile, recreational cannabis for adults is legal in 18 US states. It’s also legal in other countries, such as Canada, Mexico, and South Africa.
Identify Cannabis Sources
Karin Kloosterman and Alan Shackelford as cannabis entrepreneurs in biotech and agriculture.
There are three primary sources of cannabis.
Cannabis Growers and Distributors
They cultivate and propagate cannabis in their facilities, harvest the crops, process them, and distribute them to the market. You might also see this industry as agriculture.
Cannabis Biotech Companies
These companies may join the cannabis industry to extract cannabinoids and develop prescription drugs. They are often headed by a medical doctor and people with PhDs.
Ancillary Providers
They neither distribute nor develop new products from cannabis. But, they support the cannabis industry with their products and services. These may include lighting systems, hydroponics, and packaging materials.
Determine Different Cannabis Perceptions
Before investing in cannabis stocks, remember that the industry faces various risks and above those special risks, investing in startups and new companies is always risky. Legal and political threats are evident, limiting the capacity to produce, distribute, and expand.
Supply and demand inequality may also be challenging since cannabis can’t be cultivated in other states due to soil quality. Also, some areas have excessive demand, outpacing supply, and vice versa. Other risks include over-the-counter and financial constraints.
Despite this, the cannabis industry has more enticing growth prospects today. The increased awareness of its medicinal uses backs its appeal to the public. Amid legal and political restrictions, many states have decriminalized it.
Its market size is expanding in states where medical and recreational products derived from cannabis are legal. It draws more demand as cigarette, e-cigarette, and vape businesses become open to exploring cannabis for their market, particularly cannabidiol (CBD).
Meet With Business Experts
Before you venture into cannabis investing or mergers, you must consider many factors. You must understand that cannabis skepticism remains prevalent across many regions.
Will it derive more insightful business strategies? Will it affect the legality of your business? How will the market perceive your business? Think about these things a hundred times to avoid potential business problems.
If you and your team are still confused, it may be time to seek assistance from business experts. They are willing to devote their time and share helpful business ideas. From business filings and maintenance to expansion, they will always back you up. They will extend all the help you need for your business plans.
Assess Cannabis Companies
A cannabis greenhouse can control the environment to optimise cannabis strains for medical marijuana
After weighing the risks and opportunities in the industry, look for outstanding cannabis companies. Check their financial statements to determine their performance. In the income statement, you can assess the efficiency of the company. For cannabis growers, you must find the cost-per-gram of cannabis production, excluding depreciation, amortization, inventory adjustments, and the like.
It’s also important to check the cash level relative to its borrowings to know if it can cover repayments. The percentage of cash to current assets will tell you about its liquidity. Other key financial indicators include the Net Debt/EBITDA Ratio, Quick Ratio, Asset Turnover Ratio, Return on Equity, and Debt/Equity Ratio.
Aside from the financial statements, you must observe growth strategies and market positioning. These include mergers, pricing comparisons, and market share. Dividend payments are a plus, especially for publicly-traded businesses.
Once you find the optimal choice, evaluate the stock. Is it reasonable relative to its financial health and dividends? You can use the Price-to-Earnings (PE) Ratio, Price-to-Book Value (PB) Ratio, Discounted Cash Flow Model, Enterprise Value/EBITDA Ratio, and Dividend Discount Model. You can use these ratios even for companies not open to stock trading. After all, it’s your investment you want to assess.
But for public companies, watch the price trend closely. Market perceptions and changes may influence the stock price. Technical traders are particular about stock price patterns. These can be helpful when the stock price moves sideways without a clear indication of reversals. You may also use moving averages to determine the stock price direction. Doing so can help you find an excellent entry point to make a position. A practice called pump and dump is notorious in cannabis stocks. Ask around and make sure the company really does have technology, clients, a business.
Lastly, check if the company complies with the ESG reporting. It is difficult to match cannabis with ESG compliance. But businesses are expected to be more responsible with their production.
Invest in Cannabis Stocks and Observe Market Dynamics
If the company satisfies the conditions, it’s time to invest. But that is just the beginning of your trading journey. You must update yourself on company press releases, financial results, and market changes. It can help you decide to buy more stocks, hold them for the time being, or sell them. Hence, you can avert stock losses or generate gains.
The cannabis industry is a risky but enticing industry to watch out for. It expands with realistic growth prospects despite the challenges. Stock prices are still down, showing an opportunity for an entry point. Yet, you must be careful as economic uncertainties blow the stock market.
Saudi Arabia is planning on building a floating port called Oxagon, as part of its Neom development. They say it will be the world’s largest floating structure.
The futuristic port set to be built on the Red Sea joins other projects in development by the Saudi Arabian ruler including The Line, Sindala, Trojena and Neom.
The Oxagon port will take advantage of the Suez Canal in Egypt as a major shipping destination hub. The Red Sea is already ecologically very fragile. It will be interesting to see what sort of environmental planning reports and investigations go into this project. Some countries, for instance, test wind factors for the birds when putting up wind turbines. Basic considerations. Based on what we’ve seen at the The Line, the answer will probably be none. This makes me sad especially when you look across the sea to Egypt and see how unspoilt it still is – in Sinai.
The Oxagon port will be the logistics hub for Neom, a large region to be powered with renewable energy as part of Saudi Arabia’s 2030 plan to diversify its economy away from oil, yet using as much oil money as it can right now to build bombastic out-of-touch-to-scale projects.
Oxagon’s idea of hiking in the desert, with AI
Oxagon port will be built in an octagonal shape on land and with part of it floating into the Red Sea. The port and parts of it as a floating city will be arranged around water-filled floating squares connected by small canals. There are plans for a cruise terminal and oceanographic research centre.
Oxyagon floating city on the Red Sea, part of Neom
“Oxagon will be the catalyst for economic growth and diversity in Neom and the Kingdom, further meeting our ambitions under Vision 2030,” said Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
Cross-section view of a library and warehouse on the floating city. With so much available land, why on water?
“Oxagon will contribute to redefining the world’s approach to industrial development in the future, protecting the environment while creating jobs and growth for Neom. It will contribute to Saudi Arabia’s regional trade and commerce and support creating a new focal point for global trade flows.”
Countries nearby like Israel already have an international marine research center in place in Eilat for decades where they study climate change, ancient tsunamis, and the effects of human traffic at sea on wildlife. Please Saudi Arabia, be in touch with this center and work towards a future we can all be proud of.
Bees are turned off by the electrical changes created by pesticides. A study offers a new perspective on how human-made chemicals disturb the natural environment.
Pollinators are less likely to land on flowers sprayed with fertilisers or pesticides as they can detect electric field changes around the flower, researchers have recently discovered. While science has proven that pesticides are toxic, they know little about how they affect the immediate interaction between plants and pollinators. A new study sheds light on how chemicals immediately alter feeding action of pollinators.
A study, published in PNASNexus, shows that chemical sprays alter the electric field around flowers for up to 25 minutes after exposure. This impact lasts substantially longer than natural fluctuations, such as those caused by wind, and causes a reduction in bee feeding effort in nature. That means, this is a sound argument for the immediate and direct effects of pesticides on pollinators.
Ellard Hunting at the University of Bristol and his team noted that fertilisers did not affect the vision and smell of the bees, and set out to mimic the electrical changes caused by fertilisers and pesticides in the field by electrically manipulating flowers. This showed that bumblebees were able to detect and discriminate against the small and dynamic electric field alterations that are caused by the chemicals.
Hunting said: “We know that chemicals are toxic, but we know little about how they affect the immediate interaction between plants and pollinators. Flowers have a range of cues that attract bees to promote feeding and pollination. For instance, bees use cues like flower odour and colour, but they also use electric fields to identify plants.
“A big issue is thus – agrochemical application can distort floral cues and modify behaviour in pollinators like bees.”
Other airborne materials that affect bees and other pollinators
Various other airborne particles such as nanoparticles, car and factory exhaust, nano-plastics, and viral particles may have similar impacts, affecting a wide array of organisms that use the electric fields that are virtually everywhere in the environment.
Co-author, Bristol’s Sam England, explained: “What makes this study important is that it’s the first known example of anthropogenic ‘noise’ interfering with a terrestrial animal’s electrical sense.
”It’s much like motorboat noise that hinders the ability of fish to detect their predators, or artificial light at night that confuses moths; the fertilisers are a source of noise to bees trying to detect floral electrical cues.
“This widens our understanding of the multifaceted ways in which human activity is negatively impacting the natural world, which can seem quite depressing, but it will hopefully allow is to introduce or invent solutions to prevent the adverse effects that these chemicals may be having on bees.”
Want to do more for the bees and other pollinators? A home garden can help the bees. Read here.
Whether your business is built with wood, or your life savings is in a wooden home, sustainably-built or not, going up in flames is a risk.
Fires in commercial buildings pose a significant risk to human life and may cause severe physical and emotional harm to employees, customers, and the company as a whole. Fires in commercial buildings may be prevented if necessary precautions are taken to prevent them, the damage caused by a fire is kept to a minimum by hiring proper services, and adequate systems, controls, and procedures are in place to allow everyone inside to safely escape and contact rescue services promptly.
Fires in commercial buildings may have long-lasting effects on businesses and their employees. Fires cause more than just property damage; there are numerous other losses as well that make company recovery challenging.
Damage to property
Smoke and soot from a fire may travel around the building and settle on surfaces that were never directly touched by the flames, increasing the extent of the damage. After the fire department puts out the blaze, the smoke and soot continue to have harmful impacts for many hours, weeks, or even months. Because of this, the expense to repair fire damage increases dramatically if it is delayed.
Bear in mind that attempting to clean up the damage caused by the fire all by yourself in an effort to save some of your valuable time is not a smart idea. If you do not have specific safety equipment, entering the impacted buildings might be very hazardous. In addition, if you wipe or clear residues, you can spread them everywhere, which would make the situation much more difficult.
The Downtime and Financial Losses Sustained by Businesses
Any storefront establishment will be forced to close temporarily in the event of a commercial fire. Depending on the extent of the damage, it could take weeks or months to restore the property to its condition before the fire. The longer you have to stop doing business, the harder it will be to make up for the money you lost.
In addition, firms risk losing raw supplies purchased from far-off sources or pricey, irreplaceable equipment. Despite the fact that the world has become more digital, some organizations still feel the sting when vital and one-of-a-kind papers are lost in a fire.
Steps To Take In The Event Of A Fire Accident
It is essential to avoid fires by adhering to all fire safety regulations. Performing risk assessments consistently and making frequent adjustments to the workplace settings and practices might help prevent the worst-case scenario.
A disaster recovery plan detailing how a company will cope with the aftermath of a fire is vital for every enterprise. Business owners and managers may save themselves from having to make hasty choices or waste valuable time by having a plan in place outlining what needs to be done in the event of a fire at their place of business and who should be contacted to help restore the property.
Due to the lack of a comprehensive fire prevention system, commercial properties are often involved in uncontrollable fires that break out. In situations like these, it is a good idea to hire fire watch guards service such as Fast Fire Watch Co. since the fire watch guards employed by this company are equipped with all of the essential equipment and have the necessary expertise to manage a fire emergency.
Fire damage to companies is never good news, but having prompt expert assistance from a fire damage repair firm may often be crucial in avoiding downtime and associated costs. Make sure your firm has one designated in its disaster recovery strategy.
If you believed that you were the self-made genius behind an electric car company, a space launch & telephone company and a hole boring company, wouldn’t you want any debate to take place on your home turf where you set the rules? The strategy behind Elon Musk’s $44 billion purchase of Twitter is up for debate but perhaps this is a good time to give him credit for a long overdue overhaul of social media.
Anyone who has watched social media evolve from Bulletin Board System (BBS) FidoNets to USENET newsgroups through SecondLife and MySpace to Twitter and Facebook will have seen how much social media changed our lives. Twitter played a role in the Arab Spring, Brexit, protests and elections in several nations. At its peak more than 450 million Twitter profiles were active each month. But this number included imposters, alter-egos, doppelgangers, scam artists, trolls, cult-leaders, politicians, oligarchs and bots. This virtual garden of human minds has the same flaw as the original garden of Eden. People have used Twitter as a weapon to destroy lives, spread lies and undermine civilizations.
Twitter’s partial anonymity was a double-edged sword. Until Twitter’s recent purge of journalists, it allowed muckrakers, whistleblowers and vulnerable minorities to speak truth to power without becoming targets for persecution. But anonymity was also like the Ring of Gyges, a shield of invisibility which fed our inner trolls and empowered the dark side of the human heart.
Some countries allow social media corporations to profit from destructive user content while shielding them from liability. Even when moderation didn’t conflict with profits, Twitter’s rapid pace often left moderators behind. But Twitter’s new CEO seems to believe that the company had too much moderation! Autocrats, subversive influencers, racists and Nazis were invited back even as journalists were banned.
Mastadon is like Paris in the 1920s
Advertisers who could not afford to taint their brand began searching for other social media platforms. Vulnerable minorities that had relied on Twitter’s imperfect moderation fled for their own safety. Hundreds of thousands of Twitter users were searching for a new online home.
This influx of new users yearning to be safe reminds us of other places and times when immigrants brought energy and creativity. With its large number of dispossessed artists, musicians and writers, parts of Mastodon resemble Paris in the 1920s.
What is Mastodon?
Mastodon not a company or a single server. It is a decentralized social network application which allows web servers to join an interoperable social network known as the Fediverse. Eugen Rochko of Germany, also known as Gargon, is the Founder, CEO and lead developer of Mastodon. Christine Lemmer-Webbe, co-author of the ActivityPub specification explains that Mastodon is only one one of many possible implementations of this web communication standard. She shared some helpful documentation on her Mastodon profile: High level intro to ideas:
Computer scientist and opensource advocate Simon Phipps has a good introduction to the Fediverse which includes Mastodon instances and an interoperable family of social network applications such as PixelFed photos, Castopod podcasts and Peertube videos. If Flickr, LinkedIn, Mozilla or Bluesky decide to create ActivityPub compatible services, they can also become part of the Fediverse. Mastodon gained the most attention in recent weeks because it allows favoriting, replying and boosting short text messages which resemble Twitter’s tweets.
More than a decade ago I joined another decentralized social media called Diaspora. Unfortunately Facebook and Twitter had already drawn many people into their centralized “walled gardens” where few were aware that they were locking themselves, their friends and families into communicating only through these corporations. This profit-first ethos is why you couldn’t use your Android phone to Facetime family on iPhones even during Covid-19 lockdowns. It’s why you couldn’t view friend’s Facebook photos from your Twitter account or browse an friend’s iPhoto album from a Windows PC. Corporations segregated us behind their paywalls of unnecessary incompatibility. We believed we were their customers but we have always been their product.
Twitter said this quiet part out loud on December 18th, 2022 with an announcement that tweets and accounts will be removed for sharing outgoing links to Facebook, Instagram, Mastodon and other competing social media platforms. The announcement was later replaced with a 404: Page not found error but not before convincing more people that Twitter’s new management doesn’t value the free speech of people who aren’t already wealthy and powerful.
Getting started with Mastadon
What is a Mastodon “instance”?
If you’re not old enough to remember email, ask your parents or grandparents but back in the old days people had to choose an email server. Some used one belonging to their company or internet service provider. Others used yahoo.com, aol.com, mac.com, myInternetCafe.com, myUniversity.edu… It didn’t really matter because with rare exceptions, any email could go to and from any email server because the Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP) wasn’t owned by a single company, it was an international standard. Mastodon instances are somewhat like email servers or old style bulletin board systems (BBSs.) People in one instance can follow or send messages to people in other instances. Anyone who has set up a BBS, a cloud-based web or MineCraft server is capable of configuring a Mastodon instance. But for most of us the cost of hosting, moderation and security make it more efficient to join and contribute to the running costs of existing one.
How do I choose an instance?
The large number of possible Mastodon “instances” (servers) to choose from presents one of the biggest barriers to joining but it also points to a big advantage. Some instances are focused on a particular region, language or area of interest. Some encourage posting on, maps, animals, art, science, photography or history. Some allow longer posts, some are focused on the needs of writers and journalists, others have a high concentration of tech people. Some prioritize regional content or a particular language. Instances resemble Facebook groups but they are not controlled by a single company. Unlike ad-funded corporate media, Mastodon instances are funded by user donations. Try to find one which uses a donation portal you would trust. If you can’t get into your chosen instance, try another one.
Check local laws
Comedian Groucho Marx quit the Friar’s club with the remark, “I don’t want to belong to any club that would have me as a member!” It’s helpful to choose an instance with a moderation policy that fits your beliefs and the legal requirements of your home. Try to find an instance that is managed by someone who takes moderation and security more seriously than Twitter’s current leadership does. I began with a regional instance which several of my techie friends had already joined. Here is a map of Mastodon instances. And here are some in the Middle East and north Africa: https://mastodon.com.tr https://tooot.im https://mastodon.tn https://sasa.africa
Mastodon is currently strong in Japan and Europe. The European Commission recently decided to help fund it.
Choose an instance based on your interests
The website https://joinmastodon.org* allows you to search instances by region and area of interest. Here are some which may be of interest to GreenProphet readers:
If you can’t get into your chosen instance, try another one. If your chosen instance isn’t working well for you, it is possible to move. Your follows and followers can come with you. Data scientist Danielle Navarro wrote a more detailed look at this and many other aspects of using Mastodon. *When discussing Twitter’s recent ban, a journalist mistakenly wrote that Twitter had banned “John Mastodon, the founder of a competing social network.” That mistake is now trending as a series of jokes and memes within the Fediverse and a fictional founder account: https://mastodon.social/@JohnMastodon How to Say Hello to Mastodon?
Its customary to write an #introduction containing hashtags describing your interests. For me it might be #Environmentalism, #Writing, #History, #Photography, #Science, #Sailing, #A11Y… This post will appear under these hashtags which will help you connect to others with similar interests. But you may wish to “lurk”, listen and watch how people interact before you introduce yourself.
Mastodon currently has a high concentration of gentle and creative people. Women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA, people with disabilities, neurodiverse, artists, musicians, poets, scientists and “Woke” (aka compassionate) people. Mastodon is not a clone of Twitter and many uses hope it will never try to become Twitter. In some ways it’s the opposite of what has become a wretched hive of scum and villainy.
Some people who’ve settled into this kinder place do not want to be reminded of their abusers elsewhere. Mastodon added several million users over the past few weeks. It will certainly face growing pains but kindness is one area where it excels. Users are encouraged to use content warnings (CWs.) They are simple to add and actually increases the chances your post will be “boosted” (retweeted). So you’ll see CWs for politics, book and movie spoilers, images NSFW or displaying direct eye contact. You’ll also see CWs for mentions of Twitter. It’s also customary to add text descriptions to images for people with limited vision. Mastodon makes it easy to do this. There are no profit-driven algorithms which reward hate-driven engagement, instead ordinary people choose to boost posts from others who perform these simple acts of kindness. One blind user explained that he had seen more text descriptions on Mastodon in 24 hours than he had on Twitter over several years.
Who/What should I follow?
Again there is no one-size-fits-all list of people and hashtags to follow, but here are some which may be particularly interesting to GreenProphet readers:
There is never a good way to say goodbye. My personal Twitter account has been battened down and nearly untouched since Musk’s takeover but another has suddenly become a magnet for “followers”, most of which are bots who’ve joined since October 2022.
“The safest way to use computers is still abstinence” – Christine Lemmer-Webber (2018)
While this is excellent advice, she also explains that you should not delete your Twitter account. Someone could take your handle and become an imposter. Deleting your account is also not very useful. Elon Musk already has all of your tweets whether or not you “delete the account.”
Will Mastodon Make Twitter Extinct?
The growth of Mastodon seems to have unsettled Twitter’s leadership. It has already reduced the number of targets for profitable hate. People who parked or deleted Twitter accounts are no longer seeing ads there. But $44 billion won’t disappear overnight An artist in my family explained how Twitter helped connect freelance artists to commissions. The number of Mastodon users grew rapidly in recent weeks but it remains far below the number on Twitter. I wanted to learn how artists are using this new tool so I joined a small instance which focuses on visual art. It has a strong moderation policy and recently closed to new users in order to remain a stable, well-moderated and gently beautiful art gallery. Artists connect with one another and with those who support their work. Its curator “defederated” from some large and under-moderated instances in order to protect the artists. People I had known from open-source communities were becoming early adopters of Mastodon. They had fought Microsoft back when its applications trapped users into a closed and outdated operating system. To go against a near-monopoly felt like jousting at windmills. In the end we didn’t beat them and we didn’t join them, they joined us. Microsoft Windows, Apple OSX, Google Android, cloud computing and the internet of things all rely on the work of open-source visionaries.
Twitter may limp along for years with haphazard management slowly bleeding away $44 billion and struggling to find a path that avoids discussing the Mastodon in the room. But its not going away.
Mastodon user @d4doome explained it this way:
It might be an unpopular thought here but I’d like to see both Twitter and Mastodon thrive. They’re different and there’s room for both.
Twitter is like having an apartment in the big bad city and you go out at night to sample the nightlife. It’s scary and dangerous if you don’t know what you’re doing, it’s a bit sleazy, but it’s exciting and fun.
Mastodon is like having a little cottage in the country and going to the picturesque village pub for a few quiet ales.
You can enjoy both.
Like going to a village pub for a few quiet ales. Critics wondered aloud about the wisdom in purchasing what may become a massive legal liability for a price based on a marijuana meme but if it helped launch global creative communities in Mastodon-themed virtual pubs, it is $44 billion well spent. Here’s to the man who made this possible. Cheers to Elon Musk!
Every design magazine is releasing their Top 10 looks for the last year and they all revolve around a similar theme: neutral mainly, with some linen, warm, cosy, earthy wood, ceramics, handmade pottery, high quality leather, some vintage.
How Do You Choose a Furniture Store in the Local Area?
Are you in the process of shopping for more furniture? If so, you need to think carefully about the different opinions. A high-end furniture store Los Angeles-based could be a great place for you to do your shopping, but you need to select the right one for your needs. There are probably going to be a lot of choices in the area, so how do you choose the right furniture store in the region to help you? Take a look at a few important points to keep in mind, and choose the right furniture store to help you furnish your home.
Your Budget
When you are considering luxury furniture stores, you need to think about your budget. How much money do you have to spend on your furniture? You need to walk into the store with a number in mind. That way, you can quickly narrow down your choices. You can furnish your house on just about any budget, but if you are willing to spend more money, then you open yourself up to more choices. Think about your budget before you start furniture shopping. That way, your eyes do not end up larger than your wallet.
The Selection
You should also consider the furniture store’s selection before you decide to give them their business. You might be looking for a variety of options to help you furnish your home. For example, you might be looking for a coffee table, an end table, some free-standing chairs, and a couch. Ideally, you should select a furniture store that has a wide selection of options available. That way, you have plenty of choices in front of you, and you can even put together a few items at the same time to see how they work in the room together. This will make it easier for you to make the best possible choice for your home.
Mocka also adds that another important factor to consider is the quality and durability of the furniture the store offers. Investing in well-made pieces ensures they will withstand daily use and maintain their appearance over time. Look for a furniture store that provides detailed information about the materials and craftsmanship of their items. Quality furniture may cost a bit more upfront, but it will save you money in the long run by reducing the need for frequent replacements, ultimately adding lasting value to your home.
The Knowledge of the Staff Members
It is entirely possible that you could walk into the store without knowing exactly what you are looking for. In that situation, you are going to rely on the knowledge of the staff members to help you make the right choice. You should consider talking to some of the staff members before you start shopping at the store. See if they have any recommendations that can help you finalize your selections. Maybe they have some knowledge of some deals that might be coming up in the near future. They might even have connections with some of the top furniture providers that can help you save money. Find a furniture store with a knowledgeable staff that can point you in the right direction.
Reviews and Ratings
Finally, you should take a look at some reviews and ratings before you start shopping at a furniture store. You probably take a look at reviews and ratings before you buy something online, and you need to take the same approach when you are looking for a furniture store. What do other people have to say about that store? If a lot of other people have nice things to say about a specific furniture store in the area, there is a good chance that you have found the right store to help you pick out your furniture. You might even want to talk to some of your friends and family members to see if they have any recommendations for you.
Find the Right Furniture Store for Your Needs
Clearly, there are a lot of options available if you are looking for a furniture store in the local area. The right furniture store for one living room is not necessarily going to be the right furniture store for another living room. You should always think about the selection of the furniture store before you decide to purchase something, but you also need to think about the people who work at the furniture store, as they are going to be the ones helping you find the right furniture for your home. Do not hesitate to talk to some of your friends and family members if you are looking for recommendations for stores in the local area.
Stay in Beit Zafran Hotel de Charme (Saffron House), a traditional Ottoman palace, in Syria
