Karura Forest

Karura Forest is an urban forest in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. The forest was gazetted in 1932 and is managed by the Kenya Forest Service in conjunction with the Friends of Karura Forest Community Forest Association .
Karura Forest is 1,041 ha (2,570 acre) consisting of three parts separated by Limuru and Kiambu roads. The large middle portion is ca. 710 ha (1,750 acres); the Sigria salient to the west is ca. 250 ha (620 acres). The portion to the east of Kiambu road has been allocated to special national priorities. As of mid-2016, 36% of the forest contains indigenous upland forest tree species. The forest is home to some 200 species of bird as well as suni, Harveys Duiker, bushbucks, bush pigs, genets, civets, honey badgers, bush babies, porcupines, Syke's monkeys, bush squirrels, hares, fruit bats, and various reptiles and butterflies. Karura now has over 50 km of trails for visitors to walk, run or bike.
Due to its proximity to a growing city, there have been plans to reduce the forest in favour of housing and other development. However, these plans have been controversial with conservationists. In the late 1990s there were housing projects that would have excised portions of the forest. Conservationists, led by Wangari Maathai, the leader of Green Belt Movement who later became a Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, carried out a much publicised campaign for saving the forest. Karura Forest became also a symbol against controversial land grabbings in Kenya.
Geography.
Karura Forest has an area of 1 063.0 ha, making it largest of three main gazetted forest in Nairobi. The others are Ngong Forest and Oloolua Forest. The centrally located Nairobi Arboretum is much smaller.
Karura Forest is located north of central Nairobi and is bordered by the suburbs of Muthaiga, Gigiri, Runda, Ridgeways, Mathare North, Peponi and New Muthaiga. The western part of the forest is also known as Sigiria Forest.
The area north of central Nairobi forms a drainage basin and was once heavily forested, but exists today only as patches like Karura Forest and City Park. The forest is cut by Thigirie, Getathuru, Rui Ruaka and Karura Rivers, all tributaries of Nairobi River.
Features in the forest include a waterfall, bamboo forest, marshland, Mau Mau caves and an old church.
The United Nations Office at Nairobi and UNEP headquarters are located adjacent to the forest. The Karura Forest Product Research Centre is also located there.
Ecology.
Wildlife in the forest include Monkey species (including recently re-introduced Colobus Monkeys), bush baby, bushbuck, bush pig, porcupine, duiker, genet, dik dik, African civet and East African epauletted fruit bat.
Plant species typical to the forest include Olea europaea (var. africana), Croton megalocarpus, Warburgia ugandensis, Brachyleana huillensis and the Uvaridendron anisatum.
Development projects and environmental issues.
Parts of the forest were degazetted by Minister of Environment Jeremiah Nyagah in 1989. Between 1994 and 1998 a total of 564.14 hectares of the forest were secretly allocated to 64 different companies for housing projects. Around 1995 there were plans to build a housing estate in the forest, but opposition by local residents led to temporary shelving of the plans.
The projects revitalised again in September 1998, when the Forest Department was issued a quit notice by private developers. The clearing of the forest started igniting fierce protests by environmentalists and others concerned. On 7 October 1998 the construction site was invaded by demonstrators, including 12 opposition MP's. The protest turned violent and bulldozers and other machinery used to clear the forest was destroyed worth more than 80 million Ksh ($2 US million).
Minister for Lands and Settlements Noah Katana Ngala released a list of companies who had been allocated land in Karura Forest in November 1998. However, the records of those companies were not found at Registrar General's office, making it difficult to trace the individuals behind these companies.
On 8 January 1999 when a group of women led by Wangari Maathai were holding a demonstration by planting trees near the forest, a large group of security guards attacked them. Several of them were injured, including Maathai who was taken to Nairobi Hospital. The police were reluctant to investigate the incident. However, the Attorney-General Amos Wako apologised to Maathai and promised an inquiry on the incident.
The Time Magazine, in support of Maathai, named her a Hero of the Week in 1998. Klaus Töpfer, the executive director of UNEP, warned that the organisation may move its headquarters out of Kenya if the forest faces destruction. The UN Secretary General Kofi Annan also condemned the attack on Maathai. Architectural Association of Kenya asked in November 1998 Kenyan architects not to be involved with any design that would threaten the forest
Kenyan President Daniel arap Moi criticised the protesters and asked the Church not to involve itself with the saga. Minister for Natural Resources Francis Lotodo defended the projects in January 1999 stating that Nairobi as a growing city needed space for development. Professor R. A. Obudho of University of Nairobi, who specialises in urbanisation, also supported the projects
University of Nairobi students held several demonstrations for preservation the forest. On 20 January 1999 several students were injured when they clashed with police. The University if Nairobi was closed temporarily following the protests, and all students were ordered to leave the campus. Opposition MP's James Orengo (Ford-Kenya), David Mwenje (DP) and Njehu Gatabaki (SDP) were charged in court for attending student protests.
Eventually housing plans were taken down in lack of public support, but land allocations still stood in place.
In 2003 the NARC government led by Mwai Kibaki replaced the long-standing Moi-led KANU-government. In 2003 the Minister of Environment Newton Kulundu denied the American investor Raymond Chisholm a permit to construct a hotel in the forest. Learning that the new government would revoke dubious KANU-era land allocations, developers started to relinquish their properties in the forest
The new Kenya Forests Act in 2005 made it more difficult to degazette forests in Kenya, thus protecting Karura Forest as well
There was a project by Kenya Forest Service, UNEP and Red Cross Kenya in 2008 to cut down eucalyptus and blue gum trees in parts of the forest and plant indigenous species in their place. Green Belt Movement was doubtful with the project, fearing that logging of the forest could actually lead to private developers invading the forest
In 2009 it was reported that part of the forest had been allocated to the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA). This plan was also opposed by Wangari Maathai and the Green Belt Movement, who stated that the NEMA should be protecting, not destructing the forest.
The Nairobi Northern Bypass road, constructed in 2009, passes through a wetland that contributes to one of the five Karura Forest water courses, thus posing a threat to the forest.
Karura Forest had a reputation as dangerous spot. Muggings, robbery and violence were common. At one point, said Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Head of the Nairobi Conservancy, Charity Munyasia, they were discovering one dead body there per fortnight, on average. The Chief Forester was actually mugged in his own forest.
The new Kenya Forests Act (2005) also provided for the establishment of Community Forest Associations (CFA). In 2009 an initiative was thus formed under the name 'Friends of Karura Forest Community Forest Association'. Recognising the growing threats to Karura from uncontrolled development the neighbouring Muthaiga and Gigiri Residents Associations begin discussions in early 2009 to form a Community Forest Association for Karura. A letter of intent circulated to northern Nairobi neighbourhoods residents, heads of agencies and VIPs under joint signature of KFS and the Muthaiga Residents’ Association (MRA). A stakeholders’ Working Committee was formed to steer the process, and, in order to raise awareness, it organised a media event in the form of the opening of Karura's ‘Family Trail’ on 16 May 2009 with the Hon. Noah Wekesa, Minister for Forestry and Wildlife, presiding. Hundreds of stakeholders participated in walking the length of the trail. On 25 May 2009 KFS wrote a letter to the Registrar of Societies expressing No Objection to the registration of the new CFA. Between April and July 2009 FKF-CFA office-bearers completed the required vetting processes with the Criminal Investigation Division and Registrar of Societies. The FKF-KFS joint management plans were drafted by the Working Committee. On 1 October 2009 the Registrar of Societies signed the Certificate of Registration for the Friends of Karura Community Forest Association. At the First FKF Annual General Meeting on 21 April 2010 Alice Macaire became FKF's first elected chairperson.
The nascent and unique parastatal-stakeholder partnership took its first major management decision on 25 Feb 2010 when FKS and FKF signed an MOU concerning installation and operation of an electric fence to fully secure the forest perimeter. FKF raised the necessary funds and the fence was completed in September. In December 2010 the Strategic Management Plan signed by KFS Director D.K, Mbugua, and on 26–27 February 2011 there was a Grand Opening Ceremony in the forest to celebrate a Karura that was now ’Secure, Safe & Serene’ and open for visitors.
At the second FKF Annual General Meeting on 19 April 2011. Prof. Karanja Njoroge, who had served as Wangari Maathai's deputy at the GreenBelt Movement, was elected to chairmanship of FKF. Wangari Maathai and Alice Macaire were anointed as honorary Patrons of the Community Forest Association. Cristina Boelcke-Croze continued as vice-chair along with Judge Sharad Rao.
Thus, in only five years, the FKF Community Forest Association in partnership with the Kenya Forest Service and Kenyan corporate and private donors, fenced, secured and transformed Karura "from the dumping site for hijackers and murderers and illegal private developers" into a popular local recreation and conservation site. From literally zero visitors in 2009, the forest is now welcoming an average of 16,000 visitors a month, 70% of whom are Kenyan citizens. In 2015 there were some 600,000 visitors.
A documentary about the transformation of the forest, " Rejuvenating The Karura Forest: Danger Spots to Green Haven," was produced by Duncan Ndotono and directed by Brenda Okoth, recognised efforts being made to nurture Karura Forest back to life
The Friends of Karura Forest Community Forest Association can be contacted at rafiki@karurafriends.org. Website: http://www.friendsofkarura.org
Tourism.
Karura Forest is now developed as a visitor's attraction, with some 16,000 entries per month. This includes creation of some 50 km of nature trails for walking, running and biking. The first trail, which is four kilometres long and connects Limuru Road with Old Kiambu Road was opened in May 2009. An electric fence has been built around the forest for security reasons. Although 70% of Karura's visitors are Kenyan citizens, there is a growing appreciation by an international clientele as witnessed by Karura having received a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for two years running (2014–15) and being listed as No. 4 out of 101 Things To Do in Nairobi.
The Karura Forest Environmental Education Trust (KFEET) was formed in 2010, and launched by then Minister for Forestry and Wildlife Noah Wekesa. KFEET manages an environmental education centre located in Karura Forest and facilitating access to thousands of Kenyan school children.


Hungarian Grey

The Hungarian Grey (), also known as Hungarian Steppe Cattle, is an ancient breed of domestic beef cattle indigenous to Hungary.
The breed belongs to the group of Podolic cattle and is well adapted to extensive pasture systems.
History.
The breed probably arrived with the ninth-century Hungarian immigration from the east to the Hungarian lowlands. In the Middle Ages and early modern times the breed was used as a draught animal but from 1861 has been bred for early maturity and its beef quality, being herded live to the markets of Europe. Nowadays Hungarian Grey cattle are kept mainly as tourist attractions in the Hortobágy National Park and other Hungarian national parks. Small herds may be found in a few other places, e.g. Bocfölde, Western Hungary. These herds serve as gene banks, due to their reported resistance to cattle diseases which affect more highly bred cattle types. By 1975 there were only 300 cows left in two herds, but numbers have since increased. The rebound in the cattles numbers is partially due to cryoconservation efforts put forth by the Hungarian government.
Characteristics.
Hungarian Grey cattle are slender and tall. The bulls reach a height of 145 to 155 cm and a weight of 800 to 900 kg, the cows 135 to 140 cm and 500 to 600 kg.
The colour ranges from silvery-white to ash-grey. As in other Podolic breeds, the calves are born wheat-coloured, and become grey at about three months old. Hungarian Grey cattle are robust, easy-calving and long-lived. Their horns are directed upward and are long and curved.


Quaker Square

Quaker Square was a shopping and dining complex located in downtown Akron, Ohio which is now used by the University of Akron. Quaker Square was the original Quaker Oats factory; the complex consists of the former mill, factory, and silos. The buildings were bought in the early 1970s by developers who sought to create a unique, useful home for shops and restaurants. The buildings were bought by the University of Akron in 2007. The hotel has been converted to a residence hall. The retail space consisted of several small shops and restaurants, while offices were on the floors above. Quaker Square was open to the general public until September 18, 2015. The hotel no longer accepts reservations as the former hotel rooms and the entire complex is operated exclusively for student and university use. However, ballrooms are still available for catered events and conferences.
History.
The Quaker Oats company was formed by the merger of several businesses, one was the Akron-based German Mills American Oatmeal Company founded by Ferdinand Schumacher. Schumacher's facility, first built in 1872, was destroyed by fire in 1886, then was rebuilt at the same location. Those buildings formed the basis of the Quaker Oats Cereal Factory. The complex consisted of cereal production facilities, warehouses, and rail-siding sheds. Quaker Oats built 36 grain silos on the site in 1932. Each silo was 120 feet tall and 24 feet in diameter, and together they housed 1.5 million bushels of grain.
The complex is now the only remaining visual reminder of what was once Akron's largest single employer. Quaker Oats terminated production in Akron in 1970. The entire complex was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1972.
Mall.
The facility was repurposed in March 1973, and reopened 1 April 1975 with four shops and an ice cream parlor.
The silos were converted into a Hilton Hotel which opened in 1980. Later it became a Crowne Plaza hotel. The hotel is built into the suite of silos and is famed for its 196 completely round rooms. (Source: "Quaker Chronicle" promotional sheet available at the hotel.)
The Trackside Grille & Ice Cream Parlor, a restaurant themed with railroads which run parallel to the building, also provided a narrative of Akron's history. The Trackside Dining Room was constructed with the beams and columns of the factory building. (Source: "Quaker Chronicle" promotional sheet available at the hotel.)
The Quaker Square General Store offered oatmeal cookies, pie-baking classes for children, and "nostalgic" candy. (Source: "Quaker Chronicle" promotional sheet available at the hotel.)
Purchase by University of Akron.
In mid-June 2007 the University of Akron bought the complex for $22,679,000 with plans to convert it into student housing and office space. The university planned to house more than 400 students in the converted hotel starting with the 2008 spring semester. In January 2008, the university began to use the upper floors of the hotel as a residence hall.
Under contract with UA, RDA Management of Fairlawn operated 95 hotel rooms on the four bottom floors of the silos for the following two years. The university agreed to keep those rooms available to the public for that period to give the city an opportunity to secure more hotel space for downtown visitors and tourists. On June 30, 2013 the hotel was closed and converted entirely into student housing. The shops at Quaker Square, as well as Trackside, closed in 2016. The only remaining store was a Zee's store which is a convenience store for students to buy groceries and snacks. As of August 2018, Zee's moved to the lobby of UA's Quaker Hall, leaving the retail portion empty. That side of the complex continues to house offices on the second, third, and fourth floors.
Former Amtrak station.
Akron station, located at Quaker Square, was served by Amtrak passenger trains during the 1990s and 2000s.
The former Akron Union Station, slightly to the south, was closed in 1971 when Amtrak did not include a Washington-Chicago train on the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad (B&O) as part of its initial route structure. On November 10, 1990, the "Broadway Limited" was rerouted from the ex-Pennsylvania Railroad Fort Wayne Line to the ex-B&O. Union Station had been reused by the University of Akron; Amtrak used part of the former platform and constructed a modular station building at Quaker Square.
The New York-Chicago "Broadway Limited" was replaced with the New York-Pittsburgh "Three Rivers" on September 10, 1995, ending service to Akron. The "Three Rivers" was extended to Chicago through Akron on November 10, 1996; however, Amtrak and the city disagreed over who would pay for necessary repairs to the station. Akron station reopened on August 10, 1998 - the last of several ex-"Broadway" stops to be restored. The "Three Rivers" was cut back to Pittsburgh as the "Pennsylvanian" on March 7, 2005, ending service to Akron again.


Forestry in Argentina

The forestry sector in Argentina has great potential. The geography of the country extends from north to south, encompassing . Its variety of climates, land quality, and reliable precipitation allow for the cultivation of different tree species at high growth rates. The climate varies and most areas are quite temperate. The country also enjoys short harvest periods for the most important species. This has allowed the industry to become more competitive and continue its high growth rates.
Forest situation.
An estimated 1.115 million hectares were planted as of 2005. There were also 33.2 million hectares (82 million acres) of native forest reserve. Out of this total, 20 million hectares (50 million acres) are high quality land for future development in Argentina. However, this vast amount is not easy to put into production due to its land tenure situation (the proliferation of owners holding areas of 5 to 10 hectares), legislation which protects native forests, and lack of infrastructure. If investors wish to expand their land for cultivation, the opportunity costs are substantial.
The current plantation rate is estimated to be 50,000 hectares per year. It is also estimated that the consumption of wood products from cultivated forests is 5.3 million cubic meters, and sustainable wood supply to the year 2015 will be more than 20 million cubic meters. Argentina, however, is not a major consumer of wood products. For instance, wood is not commonly used in building construction. About 60 to 70 percent of wood product production is used for internal consumption (wood boards, plywood, cellulose pulp, etc.) and the rest for exports.
The growth of planted forests has increased dramatically since 1997 due to new investments (especially from Chile). The implementation of Law 25,008 in January 1999 was an important factor for growth in this sector. This law promoted and assisted the forestry sector for a period of 10 years. Between 1990 and 2000, foreign and domestic investments surpassed US$1.5 billion. The forestry industry depends on both cultivated forests (85 percent) and native forests (15 percent). The major species cultivated in Argentina are pines and eucalyptus. In addition, species such as salix and populus are also cultivated in a smaller scale. Currently, there are no other species that have been introduced for cultivation in Argentina.
Argentina had a 2018 Forest Landscape Integrity Index mean score of 7.21/10, ranking it 47th globally out of 172 countries.
Production and trade.
Argentina's exports of forestry products began in earnest in the 1990s. However, as a producer of primary goods with low value added, the country experienced an overall trade deficit that ran from US$500 million to US$1 billion from 1992 to 2002. With the sharp devaluation of the peso in 2002, exports of Argentine forest product were given a shot in the arm. Argentine goods became more attractive and exports began to increase, especially for high-value-added products. Between 2002 and 2004, exports increased from US$300 million to about US$700 million.
Wood and furniture.
During 2005, the success of the forestry industry in Argentina continued. Compared to the years 2000 and 2001, the trade surplus for wood and furniture products increased dramatically. The year 2005 was the fourth consecutive year that this sector experienced a trade surplus.
It is estimated that for one hectare of cultivated forest, the industry produces 400 tons of wood. Moreover, the average value of a cubic meter of wood boards from cultivated forests is US$70 to US$80. In some cases, there are boards that run between US$200 to US$250 and there is a small niche of specific types of boards with prices up to US$400. The area between Misiones, Corrientes, and Entre Ríos is the major producer of wood products, and represents 65 percent of the total production in Argentina.
In terms of the major destinations of Argentina's exports of wood and furniture products, the United States, Brazil, Spain, and Chile continue to be the most important markets. In 2005, both South Africa and the Dominican Republic emerged as markets for this sector. China in 2005 also increased its demand for forestry products from Argentina, but they are mainly low-value-added products. Some of the most important exports goods from Argentina are fiber and particleboards, plywood, wood boxes and containers, and wood handles for tools.
Imports of wood and furniture in 2005 experienced an increase of 52 percent compared to the previous year. This increase was mainly for products such as staves and barrels for the wine industry, boxes, and other products for packing. These imports in particular experienced a US$25 million increase compared to 2004, which represents 25 percent of the total imported goods in 2005. There are also other products such as cork products as well as paper and cardboard products in which imports have increased.
Cellulose pulp.
Argentina is the third biggest producer of cellulose pulp in Latin America. As of 2005, Argentina produced 1.5 million tons. The major plants are located in Misiones and they use pinewood as their raw material. The most important plants in this region are Alto Paraná S.A. and Papel Misionero S.A. There are also other plants that use fiber from eucalyptus as raw material for both the production of cellulose fiber and paper.
Pulp mill dispute.
There are also other issues that can make some aspects of the industry uncertain. Currently there is a dispute between Uruguay and Argentina over two cellulose plants that are being built on the Uruguayan side of the Río de la Plata, which forms the border between the two countries. This dispute began after Argentine environmentalists alleged that the plants would pollute the river that divides the two countries, and asserted that Uruguay had not provided the necessary information on the environmental impact of the plants. In protest, Argentine environmentalists blocked traffic on the Libertador General San Martín Bridge and General Artigas Bridge, the two main international bridges connecting the two countries. As of now, the Argentine and Uruguay government have not been able to resolve the issue. This impasse could possibly slow down the development and introduction of new technologies for the forestry sector. Such technologies are crucial to increase cultivated land and production. Argentina has the potential to become a major cluster for the worldwide industry, but more investment is necessary.
Paper production.
Argentina is the fourth largest producer of paper, paperboard and corrugated fiberboard in Latin America. As of the 2004, the sector produced about 1.4 million tons. The production experienced an increase of 11 percent compared to 2003. However, this production only satisfied 67 percent of domestic demand. The paper production in Argentina is primarily for packing (48 percent), printing (25 percent), and newspapers (13 percent).
The forestry sector in Argentina experienced significant growth rates between 2001 and 2006. An estimated 1.115 million hectares (2.8 million acres) were planted as of 2005. It is estimated that this year, between 40,000 and 50,000 hectares (100,000 to 124,000 acres) will be cultivated mainly in the Mesopotamia region (the provinces of Misiones, Corrientes, and Entre Ríos). Among the most important species cultivated in the country are pines and eucalyptus, representing 50 and 30 percent of production, respectively.
Major factors that have contributed to the industry's growth have been the land quality, the relative lower price of the land compared to other markets such as Brazil and Chile, and Law 25,080, which has been in effect since 1999. This law, besides providing economic incentives for small and medium producers, has also created important fiscal benefits to attract both domestic and foreign investments. The outlook for the forestry sector is positive in the short term. The relative short average periods for harvest and Brazil's current young cultivation should help Argentina become more competitive in the wood market. However, there are still challenges that the industry needs to overcome to exploit its potential, such as the development of infrastructure in various forestry areas.
Government policy.
Argentina currently does not have restrictions limiting the cultivation of forests in private properties. Only native forests are regulated by the government contingent upon the approval of the cultivation project by local government.
Law Number 13,272.
This law is intended to conserve the forests, prohibit deforestation, and the irrational use of forestry products. It also specifies that any investment project carried out in natural forests needs to be approved by the Argentine government.
Law Number 24,856.
This law oversees activities such as implementation of projects, restoration, maintenance, protection, and sustainable management of native forests. It also establishes rules for the commercialization of forestry products and non-forestry products from native forests.
Law Number 25,089.
This law was implemented in January 1999 and is intended to increase land development by the Argentine forestry industry to 3 million hectares of cultivated forest in 10 years. It also establishes an inventory process for planted forests and it has provided for the establishment of agreements with international organizations that focus on development and technology transfer for this industry. This law also provides tax benefits and economic support for Argentine and foreign investors.
Forestry by region.
Among the most important regions in Argentina for the industry are the provinces of Misiones, Corrientes, Entre Ríos, and Buenos Aires. These four provinces form the country's eastern border with Uruguay and Brazil, and comprise 80% of the total cultivated area.
Forests are composed of the following species:
The Argentine forestry sector has strengthened considerably in the last 15 years. The reasons behind this growth include:
During the 1990s, Argentina was a net importer of forestry products with high value-added (i.e. paper, cardboard, furniture, etc.) and a net exporter of primary and low value added goods (i.e. wood, cellulose pulp). This situation has changed especially after the currency devaluation in 2002 and foreign investment during the 1990s. Now, the country has begun producing a number of high value added products such as fiberboards and finished products such as furniture. Argentina is now in a position to become an important producer of forest products in the future. The industry is focusing on the production of more high value added products, and increasing rates of plantation.
Other issues.
There are both negative and positive factors that currently affect the forestry industry in Argentina that need to be considered by investors. Argentina still has low land prices relative to other countries involved in forestry (e.g., Chile and Brazil). It is estimated that the cost of land varies between US$250 and US$450 per hectare ($101/acre - $182/acre). Also, Misiones and Corrientes have estimated cultivation costs of US$800 to US$1,000 and US$400 to US$500 per hectare respectively. The soil, especially in the area of Misiones and Corrientes, is specially suited for forestry, and has one of the highest growth rates for forestry in the world.
Another issue is the lack of interest of the SAGPyA ("Secretaria de Agricultura, Ganaderia, Pesca y Alimentacion") to promote the forestry industry. Even though there is a law implemented for the promotion of the forestry sector, it is not a priority for the government. In many cases, economic support for cultivation projects has been delayed. For instance, it is not clear if Law 25,008 will be extended in the year 2009 or if it will be modified. In 2006, the Argentine Forestry Association-Mesopotamia (Afome) complained to the Ministry of Economy about how SAGPyA has managed the Law 25,008. Afome blames SAGPyA for not reaching cultivation goals established in 1999 due to delayed promotional payments.


Crooked Forest

The Crooked Forest () is a grove of oddly-shaped pine trees located near the town of Gryfino, West Pomerania, Poland.
This grove of 400 pines was planted in the village of Nowe Czarnowo in around 1930. Each pine tree bends sharply to the north, just above ground level, then curves back upright after a sideways excursion of three to nine feet (1–3 m). The curved pines are enclosed by a surrounding forest of straight pine trees.
It is generally believed that some form of human tool or technique was used to make the trees grow or bend this way, but the method was never determined and remains a mystery to this day. It has been speculated that the trees may have been deformed to create naturally curved timber for use in furniture or boat building. Others surmise that a snowstorm could have bent the trunks, but there is little evidence of that.
The forest was featured in season 1, episode 4 of "The UnXplained" on the History channel titled "Unnatural Nature" that first aired on 9 August 2019.
The site is open to the public and serves as a notable tourist attraction in the region.


Elliott B. Norris

Elliott B. Norris (June 25, 1845 – March 20, 1918) was an American farmer and politician from New York.
Life.
Norris was born on June 25, 1845 in Sodus, New York, the son of farmer Rufus F. Norris and Louise Kingsley. Other than a brief period from 1867 to 1868, where he worked as a merchant in Greenville, Pennsylvania, he lived in Sodus his whole life.
Norris attended Hillsdale College in Michigan and Eastman Business College. He worked as a farmer in Sodus. He was a larger breeder of thoroughbred Shorthorn cattle an extensive fruit grower. He was a member of the fruit firm Case & Norris. He was also very involved in the Granger movement. He was a charter member of the Sodus Grange and served as Master for 16 years. He also served as Lecturer and Master of the Wayne County Grange. He was elected Overseer of the State Grange in 1894, and in 1896 he was elected Master of the State Grange, serving until 1906. As Master, he helped grow the State Grange and instituted several new policies, including having a Grange Day at the New York State Fair, establishing the Farmers' and Trader Life Insurance Co., and offering a scholarship for Cornell University. In his eight years as Master, the State Grange gained 26,000 members and expanded into three more counties.
In 1890, Norris was elected to the New York State Assembly as a Democrat, representing the Wayne County 1st District. He served in the Assembly in 1891. In the 1898 New York state election, he was the Democratic candidate for New York State Treasurer. He lost the election to John P. Jaeckel.
In 1868, Norris married Georgianna Chipman of Wolcott. Their children were Mabel I., Floy E., Amy L., Louise E., and Mark. Georgianna was an active member in the Grange movement, serving as Master of the Sodus Grange and Secretary of the Wayne County Grange. He was a freemason and a member of the Presbyterian Church.
Norris died at home on March 20, 1918. He was buried in Sodus Rural Cemetery.


Roger Goldsworthy (politician)

Eric Roger Goldsworthy AO (born 17 July 1929) is a former Australian politician and 3rd Deputy Premier of South Australia from 1979 to 1982. Goldsworthy represented the House of Assembly seat of Kavel for the Liberal and Country League and Liberal Party from 1970 to 1992. Before entering Parliament he was a farmer and teacher. He was also a member of University of Adelaide Council 1970–1973. He became deputy leader of the SA Liberals, and hence Deputy Leader of the Opposition, in 1975 when David Tonkin successfully challenged Bruce Eastick's leadership. As such, he became Deputy Premier when the Liberals won the 1979 state election, also serving as Minister of Mines and Energy, Services and Supply. He remained deputy leader when the Liberals went back into opposition in 1982 under John Olsen, and held the deputy's post until returning to the backbench in 1989.
He was active in the development and exploitation of mineral resources whilst in parliament and following his retirement. Whilst Minister of Mines, he negotiated the establishment of the Olympic Dam mine and the Cooper Basin liquid scheme and put these to Parliament. He is a member of the South Australian government's Resources Industry Development Board (RIDB).
He has been an active promoter of the mining industry in SA and a member of the South Australian Chamber of Mines and Energy (SACOME) since its formation. Goldsworthy chaired the Gawler Craton Infrastructure study for the Commonwealth Government.
He was appointed Officer of the Order of Australia for service to Parliament and the community in 1997.
A leading member of the right wing of the South Australia Liberals, Goldsworthy retired from politics in 1992 to allow fellow right-winger and former state party leader Olsen to re-enter parliament and challenge for the leadership. Following his parliamentary career, Goldsworthy continued to support the resources sector in South Australia through his membership of the RIDB.
Education.
Roger has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Adelaide (Physics, Chemistry, Maths, Geology) and a Diploma in teaching.


Angus J. MacGillivray

Angus J. MacGillivray (November 3, 1865 – April 3, 1931) was a farmer and political figure in Nova Scotia, Canada. He represented Antigonish County in the Nova Scotia House of Assembly from 1920 to 1925 as a United Farmers member.
He was the son of John A. MacGillivray. In 1900, he married Mary MacIntosh. He served on the municipal council for Antigonish County and was county warden from 1916 to 1919. He lived in Dummaglass, Antigonish County.


Jodok Fink

Jodok Fink (19 February 1853 – 1 July 1929) was an Austrian farmer and politician who was a member of the Christian Social Party of Austria (CS). He served as first Vice-Chancellor of Austria from 1919 to 1920.
Life.
Fink was born in Andelsbuch, in the Bregenz Forest region, the son of a farmer's family. He and his younger brother Alois were the only surviving children; his father died when Fink was four years old, whereafter his mother remarried. The bright pupil went on to attend the Gymnasium secondary school in Brixen but soon had to abandon his education to work on his family's farmstead.
Fink began his political career in 1879, when he was elected a member of the municipal assembly ("Gemeindeausschuss") in Andelsbuch and served as mayor from 1888 to 1897. Actually a moderate Conservative, he joined the Landtag assembly of Vorarlberg in 1890 and the newly established Christian Social Party in 1893. He was elected MP of the Austrian Imperial Council parliament in 1897 where he did not join the faction of his antiliberal and antisemitic Christian Social party fellows until 1901. His career as a CS party executive was further promoted, when the long-time leader Karl Lueger died in 1910.
During the dissolution of the Austro-Hungarian Empire at the end of World War I, Fink was elected one of the three presidents of the German-Austrian provisional national assembly on 21 October 1918. He made his mark as a strong opponent of a unification with the German Weimar Republic, though against the majority of the assembly, and also spoke against tendencies to attach his Allemannic home country Vorarlberg to Switzerland.
Upon the Austrian Constitutional Assembly election, Fink on 15 March 1919 was able to forge a grand coalition government with the left-wing Social Democratic Workers' Party (SDAP) under State Chancellor Karl Renner and to assume the newly established office of an Austrian Vice-Chancellor. Fink played a vital role in Austrian internal politics during the negotiations leading to the Treaty of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, becoming CS faction leader in the National Council parliament, which ratified the treaty on 17 October 1919. Accompanied by fierce protests, Chancellor Renner and his government resigned, though another cabinet of Social Democratic and Christian Social ministers under Renner and Fink was immediately formed and confirmed by the National Council.
Fink was superseded by his party fellow Michael Mayr, when Renner's coalition government finally broke up on 7 July 1920. Upon the legislative election of 1920 on 17 October, Mayr formed a minority government backed by the right-wing Greater German People's Party and Fink during the subsequent period of political radicalisation no longer held any government offices, but remained considered an "éminence grise" and power broker.


De Juffer, Gasselternijveen

De Juffer (English: "The Damselfly") is a tower mill in Gasselternijveen, in Drenthe province of the Netherlands. It was built in 1971. The mill is listed as a Rijksmonument, number 46615
History.
In 1841, a tower mill was built on this site by millwright R Vlieghuis of Borger. The mill was later fitted with Patent sails, the leading edges of which were streamlined using the Van Bussel system. The mill was demolished in 1963. The brake wheel was used in the restoration of De Bonte Hen, Zaandam.
In 1968, it was decided to rebuild the mill. The tower was built by G J Warmink of Gasselternijveen, incorporating material from the mill demolished in 1963. Millwrighting work was by Medendorp of Zuidlaren. The brake wheel and wallower came from a demolished drainage mill "De Breeken", which had stood in Westerwijtwerd, Groningen. New sails were fitted in 2009.
Description.
"De Juffer" is what the Dutch describe as a "ronde stenen stellingmolen". It is a five-storey brick tower mill with a stage. The stage is at third-floor level, it is above ground level. The four Common sails, which have a span of , are carried in a cast-iron "windshaft". This was made by Fabrikaat De Muinck Keizer, of Martenshoek, Groningen in 1899. The "windshaft" also carries the "brake wheel" which has 57 cogs. The "brake wheel" drives the "wallower" (32 cogs) at the top of the "upright shaft". At the bottom of the "upright shaft", the "great spur wheel" (72 cogs) drives the lantern pinion "stone nut", which has 19 staves. This drives the diameter French Burr millstones.
Public access.
"De Juffer" is open to the public on Wednesdays from 13:00 to 15:00, on Saturdays from 10:00 to 12:00 and at other times by appointment.


Roseworthy College

Roseworthy Agricultural College was an agricultural college in Australia. It was north of Adelaide and west of Roseworthy town. It was the first agricultural college in Australia, established in 1883. It is now part of the University of Adelaide.
History.
Establishment.
Roseworthy College was the result of an initiative to develop a model farm. The idea was that the College would be an extension of the University of Adelaide and would be run by a Professor of Agriculture. The connection with the University was dropped and in 1882 John D. Custance took up the directorship and in 1883 the college's Main Building was completed. Custance may have been an effective manager but antagonized powerful politicians, and was sacked. In 1887, William Lowrie was appointed principal. Walter Richard Birks (1886–1960), principal from 1927 to 1932, was a distinguished college alumnus but was forced to resign after students' dissatisfaction culminated in strike action.
In 1936, a full-time Diploma of Oenology was offered. It was taught by Alan R. Hickinbotham and John L. Williams. Another early lecturer was John Fornachon, who did research in bacterial spoilage of fortified wines. Later, Bryce Rankine ran the course.
Research undertaken at the College included use of fertilisers in dryland cropping and a wheat breeding program, the released varieties all bearing the name of a bladed weapon. The graduates of the three faculties – Agriculture, Oenology and Natural Resources – were well regarded and winemaking students were drawn from throughout Australia and New Zealand.
Centenary.
In 1983, the College's centenary publication explained: "The College encompasses approximately 1,200 hectares of land, most of which is used as a teaching and demonstration farm. There are about 500 hectares sown to wheat, barley, oats, oilseed and medic crops, with 10 hectares of orchard, vineyard and vegetable garden. The farm also carries sheep, Poll Shorthorn beef cattle, Jersey and Friesian dairy cattle, pigs, poultry, and representative range of both light and heavy horses, and some Angora goats ... Roseworthy also has a teaching winery (which includes a distillery) of 150 tonnes production capacity ... The College produces a range of table wines, sherries, ports and brandies."
Roseworthy Old Collegians Association.
Roseworthy Old Collegians Association Incorporated (ROCA) is a University of Adelaide Alumni focused on the Roseworthy Campus. ROCA was created in 1898 and has provided an on-going bond for the many thousands of people who have been associated with the Campus since Roseworthy was established as Australia's first agricultural college in 1883. It boasts a membership of around 2000 life members and represents one of the bigger groups of the Adelaide University Alumni. ROCA's purpose has always been to promote the interests of the Roseworthy Campus. Its members are very proud of Roseworthy's history and the contribution of its people to society. ROCA acts as a guardian of the traditions of the Campus, and provides a link between Old Collegians and the Campus.
Merger.
Roseworthy College remained a separate department of the South Australian government until the 1973, when it became a College of Advanced Education under the Education Department, and officially co-educational. It had exclusively male students until 1972, and was primarily a residential college.
In 1991, the College merged with the University of Adelaide and became the University's Roseworthy Campus, part of the Faculty of Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences. The merger would see teaching and research in oenology and viticulture transferred to the University's Waite Campus, along with the bulk of its work in plant breeding. (The proposal was controversial at the time, and the Student Union Council (RACSUC) held a wake at that time to emphasise the perceived future of the college/campus under the University of Adelaide.)
From the mid 1990s, the major focus of the campus turned to dryland agriculture, natural resource management and animal production. The campus is also now home to South Australia's first pre-service Veterinary Science training program, which commenced in purpose built facilities in 2010. In 2013, the focus on veterinary science was expanded with the opening of the Equine Health and Performance Centre, a state-of-the-art facility for equine surgery, sports medicine, internal medicine and reproduction.


Bartholomew Bull

Bartholomew Bull was an immigrant to Upper Canada, who arrived at York, with his wife and his first-born child in 1818. In 1824 he acquired his own parcel of land, 200 acres on the brow of the Lake Iroquois Escarpment, between what is now Dufferin Street and Ossington Avenue, north of Davenport Road, and south of St. Clair Avenue.
When he was clearing his land Bull received a contract to supply cordwood to the garrison at Fort York.
Bull's father had been a friend of the founder of Methodism, John Wesley, and Bull's home hosted Sunday prayer meetings, before a local church was built, and he is credited for helping establish the church in Upper Canada.
Nicholos Flood Davin, in "The Irishman in Canada", lists Bull as an early success story, rising from "bush farmer", to prominent land owner, whose sons became doctors and lawyers.


John Agyabeng

John Agyabeng (born February 14, 1965) is a Ghanaian, educationist and politician. He was the Member of Parliament for the Agona Dunkwa constituency in the 5th parliament of the 4th Republic of Ghana.
Early life and education.
Agyabeng was born on 14 February 1965. His hometown is Agona Dunkwa in the Central Region of Ghana. He obtained a Bachelor of Education and Diploma in Geography from University of Cape Coast in 1993. In 2008, he obtained an executive Masters of Governance and Leadership from Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration.
Career.
Agyabeng was a tutor at the Nsaba Presbyterian School under the Ghana Education Service. He then worked from 2001 to 2005 as a District Chief Executive at the Agona East District in the Central Region of Ghana. He became a member of Parliament for the fourth parliament of the fourth republic of Ghana and a member of the fifth parliament for the fourth republic of Ghana.
Agyabeng was a District Chief Executive (DCE) for the then Agona District under Ex-President His Excellency John Agyekum Kufuor's regime.
He was a farmer and started his farming career in the year 1998. He was adjudged the overall District Farmer on the 1 December 2017 at the 33rd National Farmers’ Day celebration held at Agona Duotu in the Central region of Ghana.
Politics.
Agyabeng represented the Agona East constituency in the Central Region of Ghana as the Member of Parliament in the fifth parliament of the fourth Republic of Ghana during the 2008 Ghanaian general elections. He was elected on the ticket of the New Patriotic Party. He was elected with 15,125 votes equivalent to 49.62% of total votes cast. Theophilus F. Maranga of the National Democratic Congress and Magnus Idan of the Democratic Freedom Party lost to him in that election after obtaining 49.51% and 0.87% of total votes cast respectively. He retained his seat during the 2004 Ghanaian general election as a member of for the fourth parliament of the fourth republic of Ghana. He obtained a total vote cast of 18,030 representing 57.60% over his other candidates, Theophilus Fuseini Maranga an independent candidate who pulled a total vote of 7,427 representing 23.70%, Kweku Adu Yeboah of the National Democratic Congress who obtained 5,515 votes cast representing 17.60% and Stephen Kwame of the Nkrumah People's National Convention also pulled a total vote of 339 representing 1.10% during the 2004 Ghanaian general elections.
Personal life.
Agyabeng is married with 5 children. He is a Christian.


Kanellopoulos Institute of Chemistry and Agriculture

The Kanellopoulos Institute of Chemistry and Agriculture (, ) is a former research institute in Piraeus, Greece, which operated between 1938 and 1984 in affiliation with the Drapetsona-based ().
The Kanellopoulos Institute was a "sui generis" institution in Greece. It was the first of its kind to combine high-profile basic research, research with applications in the chemical industry, and dissemination of agrochemical advances to the Greek populace.
History.
The idea for the creation of the Institute belonged to its nameshake, industrialist (1864–1936), one of the founders of AEEChPL. Construction commenced in 1936, as per the request and with the monetary sum Kanellopoulos bequeathed to the future Institute in his will. The institute was inaugurated in 1938, situated at the east side of the AEEChPL industrial complex in Drapetsona.
The institute's activities quickly attracted attention within Greece as well as abroad, with distinguished researchers such as Georg-Maria Schwab publishing in international chemical journals on the physico-chemical and analytical work conducted in the chemical laboratories at Kanellopoulos. At the same time, the edaphological investigations in the Insititute helped modernise agriculture in Greece in the following 3 decades with the introduction of appropriate fertilisers and mapping-characterisation of the soils in major agricultural areas.
The Institute building was one among the severely damaged during WWII after the 1943 bombing of the industrial complex. Following repairs and the resumption of operation after the war, research in Kanellopoulos focused more on agrochemical over other chemical topics for the next years. The institute also published a periodical with relevant material called "Agricultural Messenger" ().
In the early 1980s there was intense interest in the institute on assessing the environmental damage caused by the fertiliser plant and suggesting measures for the area's remediation. From 1984, the whole industrial complex faced economic difficulties and research in the Kanellopoulos Institute stopped; by 1993 AEEChPL was liquidated and the Drapetsona site abandoned. Since then the Institute building has been unused and fallen into grave disrepair.
Departments.
The institute was organised into three departments:
Independently from the departments also operated the "Laboratory of Metallurgy" and the "Laboratory of Physical Chemistry", which were respectively used for ore analysis and physico-chemical basic research.
The Kanellopoulos Institute was also famed for its library, at the time of its creation in 1938 perhaps the most complete collection of chemical literature in Greece.


Alslevgaard

Alslevgaard is a manor house and estate located at Karise, Faxe Municipality, Denmark. The estate was for 300 years owned by the Grubbe family and has for long periods of time shared ownership with Tryggevælde. Both estates belonged to the Countship of Bregentved from 1751 to 1922 under grevskabet Bregentved, der blev oprettet af A. G. Moltke. The old main building was demolished in the middle of the 18th century and a new main building was not built until 1902. The oldest parts of the farm buildings (avlsgården) dates from circa 1775.
History.
Grubbe and Urne families.
The first known owner of Alslevgaard was Bo Jensen Grubbe who was the owner in around 1328. He died on the way back from the Holy Land in 1349 and the estate was then passed to his sons Bent, Jon and Esbern Grubbe. It remained in the hands of members of the Grubbe family for almost 300 years.
Alslevgaard was in the beginning of the 17th century by marriage transferred to Knud Urne. It stayed in the hands of the Urne family until 1653.
Changing owners.
Margrethe Eilersdatter Grubbe, who had been given Alslevgaard by her brother, transferred the estate to the Urne family through her marriage to Knud Urne.
In 1653, Alslevgaard was sold to Knud Ulfeldt. His daughter-in-law, Sophie Amalie Krag, brought Alselvgaard into her second marriage to Otto Rantzau. He sold it to Christen Skeel in 1698. Skeel was the following year given royal permission to turn the land into tenant farms and place them under Tryggevælde. Skeel passed away in 1709 but it is not clear who inherited the estate. Peder Benzon acquired Tryggevælde in 1716 but already in 1718 ceded it to Frederick IV in exchange for Vibygård and the land was then included in Tryggevælde Cavalry District. Tryggevælde Cacalry District was later sold in public auction by Frederick V. Alslevgaard and Rryggevælde were sold to Peter Neergaard.
1751–1922: Moltke family.
In 1751, he sold them to ]Adam Gottlob Moltke. Moltke did not merge the land with the Countship of Bregentved but reestablished Alslevgaard as an independent manor.
1922–present: Later history.
In 1922, Frederik Christian Moltke ceded Alslevgaard to Statens Jordlovsudvalg as part of the fee that "lensafløsningslpven" (Fief Dissolution Act( had required him to pay. Part of the land had prior to that been converted into three other smallholdings. Statens Jordlovsudvalg sold Alslevgaard to Johan Viggo Selchau-Hansen in 1924.


Mukuzani

Mukuzani ( "muk’uzani") is a dry red Georgian wine made from Saperavi grapes in Mukuzani, Kakheti. Mukuzani is distinct from the other wines made from the same grapes in that it is aged in oak casks for a longer time - at least three years.
Mukuzani has a deep red color with a soft smoky scent of oak and berry. The taste begins dry but the oak and fruit flavors quickly come through. As a result of its longer aging, Mukuzani has more complexity than the other wines made from Saperavi grapes. It goes particularly well with steaks and dark meats.
The matured wine contains 10.5-12.5% alcohol and has 6.0-7.0% titrated acidity. It has been produced since 1888.
Mukuzani is considered by many to be the best of the Georgian red wines made from Saperavi. It has won 9 gold medals, 2 silver medals and 3 bronze medals in international competitions.
External links.
[[Category:Georgian products with protected designation of origin]]


List of Colorado fish hatcheries

This article provides a list of fish hatcheries in Colorado.
Fish hatcheries are an important tool in the scientific world for native fish species conservation. There is an abundance of environmental impacts which have caused an expansion in the captive breeding programs to prevent the extinction of many population. Specific impacts that are protected against in hatcheries include habitat loss, pollution and more natural causes such as predation, competitors, or disease. The goal of many fish hatcheries is to preserve natural species with the intention of releasing them back into their natural habitat.
Since hatcheries have a significant impact within the conservation field, there are a wide distribution and varying purpose among the facilities. In Colorado, there is a total of 18 hatcheries raising 30+ species of fish which Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) operate. Twelve of these hatcheries are cold water facilities, two are warm water facilities, two are cold and warm water, and two are USFWS hatcheries. The missions of these various hatcheries vary from production for angling stock to native species recovery, with focus on fish such as cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, largemouth bass and many more.


Modern Langshan

The Modern Langshan is a breed of chicken derived from the Croad Langshan. Though today it is rarely seen, the breed was at one time fairly popular.
History.
The Croad Langshan was brought to the United Kingdom from Northern China by Major F. Croad in 1872. In order to make a clearer contrast between the Croad Langshan and the then less generously feathered Black Cochin, the birds were bred to have longer legs, tighter feathering, and an overall higher carriage; resulting in the Modern Langshan. Their development, in the 1890s, would later be mirrored by the development of the German Langshan, in the early 1900s, which look quite similar to the Modern Langshan. Their popularity along with their numbers declined through the years.
Characteristics.
The Modern Langshan has a less heavy and more game-like build then the Croad Langshan, and is sometimes compared to the Modern Game in appearance. Its legs are only lightly feathered. The breed is chiefly ornamental, being a good producer of neither eggs nor meat.


John Pitkin Norton

John Pitkin Norton (July 19, 1822 – September 5, 1852) was an educator, agricultural chemist, and author.
Biography.
Norton was born in Albany, New York in 1822, where his father John Treadwell Norton, a successful farmer and engineer, owned a hardware store. His mother, Mary Hubbard Pitkin, married his father in 1821 and died in 1829. He and his father returned to Farmington, Connecticut to live on land his father inherited from his grandfather John Treadwell, former governor of Connecticut.
Norton went to Edinburgh in 1844 to study agricultural chemistry with James F. W. Johnston. There he made a study of the oat which was read at the British Association in June, 1945. He then toured continental laboratories, including a visit with countryman Eben Horsford who was in Giessen studying with Liebig. To gain greater orientation to organic chemistry he went to Gerardus Mulder in Utrecht. Norton acted as a foreign correspondent for "The Cultivator" and "American Agriculturalist" as he submitted monthly letters describing his observations.
Norton studied chemistry under Benjamin Silliman at Yale College, and was eventually appointed professor of agricultural chemistry at Yale in 1846. He helped to found the Department of Philosophy and the Arts at Yale with Silliman's son, Benjamin Silliman, Jr., which would later become the Sheffield Scientific School and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. He was the author of "Elements of Scientific Agriculture" (1850), and many scientific papers, dealing with the chemistry of crops. During his short teaching career at Yale (1846–52), he took Samuel William Johnson as a pupil, who would later become one of the country's foremost educators in scientific agriculture.
Norton succumbed to tuberculosis at the age of 30, and died in Farmington, Connecticut in 1852. He is buried in Grove Street Cemetery in New Haven, Connecticut.
Legacy.
Norton is one of the few scientists recognized in the United States Capitol in Washington DC. A small statue of him is on the Edmond Amateis bronze doors. (See pp. 350 – 351 of "Art in the United States Capitol", 1978, US Government Printing Office.)
Norton's house, completed in 1849 and designed by Henry Austin to resemble an Italian villa, was included in the federal government's Historic American Buildings Survey as the John Pitkin Norton House. It was purchased by Yale in 1923 and is now known as Steinbach Hall.


Dogue de Bordeaux

The Dogue de Bordeaux, Bordeaux Mastiff, French Mastiff or Bordeauxdog is a large French mastiff breed. A typical brachycephalic mastiff breed, the Bordeaux is a very powerful dog, with a very muscular body. This muscular breed has been put to work pulling carts, transporting heavy objects, and guarding flocks.
History.
The Dogue de Bordeaux was known in France as early as the 14th century, particularly in southern France in the region around Bordeaux. Hence, the city lent its name to this large dog. The breed was first exhibited in France in 1863 after which time it gained in popularity not only in their home country but in other parts of the world. The first record of the Dogue de Bordeaux in the UK can be seen in the Kennel Club Gazette in 1897. The breed was officially recognised by the Kennel Club (UK) in 1997 but it was not until 2001 that the Kennel Club (UK) accepted an interim breed standard. A uniform breed type of the Bordeaux dog did not exist before about 1920.
The French placed emphasis on keeping the old breeding line pure. Black masks were considered an indication of the crossing in of the English Mastiff. As an important indication of purity of the breed, attention was paid to the self-colored (pink) nose, lighter eye color (dark amber), and red mask. They were originally bred with huge heads; a pioneer for the breed in Germany, Werner Preugschat once wrote:
What am I supposed to do with a dog that has a monstrous skull and is at most able to carry it from the food dish to its bed?
The Dogue de Bordeaux was at one time known to come in two varieties, Dogues and Doguins, the Dogue being considerably larger than the Doguin. The smaller Doguin has withered away to nothing more than a mention in breed history books and is now extinct.
The history of the breed is believed to predate the Bullmastiff and the Bulldog. It is said that the Dogue can be found in the background of the Bullmastiff, and others claim that the Dogue and mastiff breeds were both being accomplished at the same time. Another theory is the Dogue de Bordeaux originates from the Tibetan Mastiff and it is also said that the Dogue is related to the Greek Molossus used for war.
As there was a breed similar to the Dogue de Bordeaux in Rome at the time of Julius Caesar's reign, possibly a cousin of the Neapolitan Mastiff. Others suggest that the Dogue de Bordeaux is a descendant of a breed which existed in ancient France, the Dogues de Bordeaux of Aquitaine. Whichever theory is true, the Dogue de Bordeaux shares the same common links as all modern mastiffs.
The Dogue de Bordeaux was once classified into three varieties, the Parisian, the Toulouse and the Bordeaux, types which were bred depending on the region of France and the jobs it was required to do. The ancestral Dogue de Bordeaux had various coat colors, such as brindle and a majority of white markings that carried fully up the legs. It had scissor bites in some regions, undershot in others; a big head or a small head, a large body or a small body; very inconsistent in type. Another controversial aspect was the mask, red (brown), black or none. The Dogue de Bordeaux of Bordeaux of the time also sported cropped ears. Regardless, it had a general type similar to today's Dogue de Bordeaux.
Breeding.
In 1863, the first canine exhibition was held at the "Jardin d'Acclimatation" in Paris, France. The winner of the Dogue de Bordeaux was a female named Magentas. The Dogue de Bordeaux was then given the name of the capital of its region of origin, today's Dogue de Bordeaux.
During the 1960s, a group of breeders of the Dogue de Bordeaux in France, headed by Raymond Triquet, worked on the rebuilding of the foundation of the breed. In 1970, a new standard was written for the breed, with the most recent update in 1995. This standard is the basis of the standard written for the AKC in 2005.
Although the Dogue de Bordeaux first arrived in the USA in the 1890s for the show ring, the first documented Dogues de Bordeaux of modern times appeared in 1959 by the name of Fidelle de Fenelon. Between 1969 and 1980, imported Dogues de Bordeaux in the US were scarce, limited to a few breeders who worked closely with the French Dogue de Bordeaux Club, the SADB. The breed was first "officially" introduced to American purebred enthusiasts in an article written in 1982 by the American anthropologist Dr. Carl Semencic for "Dog World" magazine. When Semencic's first article on the breed was published, there were no Dogues de Bordeaux in the United States. There were 600 examples left in the world, mostly in France, the Netherlands and East Berlin, and the breed's numbers were on the decline. Much later, in 1989, the typical American family saw the Dogue de Bordeaux for the first time on the big screen in Touchstone's movie "Turner & Hooch" about a policeman and his canine partner.
Since then, the Dogue de Bordeaux has taken hold in the United States and can be found in greatly increasing numbers across the country. The Dogue de Bordeaux has been supported by multiple breed clubs throughout the years, and has finally found its way to full American Kennel Club recognition through the assistance of the Dogue de Bordeaux Society of America. Since 1997, the society has helped bring the breed to the point in which full AKC recognition could be achieved.
Appearance.
The Dogue de Bordeaux is a well balanced, muscular and massive dog with a powerful build. The distance from the deepest point of the chest to the ground is slightly less than the depth of the chest. A massive head with proper proportions and features is an important characteristic of the breed.The breed is set somewhat low to the ground and is not tall like the English Mastiff. The body of the Dogue de Bordeaux is thick-set, with a top-line that has a slight dip (topline is never completely straight) and a gentle rounded croup. The front legs should be straight and heavy-boned, well up on pasterns, down to tight cat-like feet. The straight tail, beginning thickly at the base and then tapering to a point at the end, should not reach lower than the hocks, and is set and carried low. The breed is to be presented in a completely natural condition with intact ears, tail, and natural dewclaws. It should be evaluated equally for correctness in conformation, temperament, movement, and overall structural soundness.
Weight.
The breed standards by European FCI and the AKC specify a minimum weight of for a female and for a male. There is no formally stated maximum weight, but dogs must be balanced with regard to their overall type and the conformation standards of the breed.
Height.
The standard states that the desirable height, at maturity, should range between for male dogs and from for females. Deviation from these margins is considered a fault.
Head.
The massive head is a crucial breed characteristic. The Dogue de Bordeaux is claimed to have the largest head in the canine world, in proportion to the rest of the body. For males, the circumference of the head, measured at the widest point of the skull, is roughly equal to the dog's height at the withers (shoulders). For females, the circumference may be slightly less. When viewed from the front or from above, the head of the Dogue forms a trapezoid shape with the longer top-line of the skull, and the shorter line of the underjaw, forming the parallel sides of the trapezoid. The jaw is undershot and powerful. The Dogue should always have a black or red mask that can be distinguished from the rest of the coat around and under the nose, including the lips and eye rims. The nose color in red-masked dogs should be brown, in black-masked dogs, it must be black. The muzzle should be at most a third of the total length of the head and no shorter than a quarter of the length of the head, the ideal being between the two extremes. The upper lip hangs thickly down over the lower jaw. The upper lips of the Dogue de Bordeaux hangs over the lower lips. The skin on the neck is loose, forming a noticeable dewlap, but should not resemble that of a Neapolitan Mastiff. Small pendant ears top the head, but should not be long and hound like.
Coat.
The standard specifies the coat to be 'short, fine, and soft to the touch'. Color varies from shades of fawn (light, coppery red) to mahogany (dark, brownish red) with a black, brown, or red mask, although the red mask is true to the breed. White markings are permitted on the tips of the toes and on the chest, but white on any other part of the body is considered a fault, and a disqualifying one if the pigmentation goes beyond the neck.
Health.
While larger breeds of canines tend to have shorter life expectancy, the life expectancy of the Dogue is still shorter than even breeds of comparable or larger size. According to data collected by the Dogue De Bordeaux Society of America, the average lifespan of the breed is 5 to 6 years. A veterinary database in the UK showed similar figures. In the American survey, the oldest dog in the record was 12 years old. However, the acting dog who played Hooch in the 1989 film, Turner and Hooch, died at the age of 14. The Society is actively recording dogs that are 7 years old or older to celebrate the longer-lived dogs.
Because of its brachycephalic head, the Dogue can be affected by breathing problems. Some may be intolerant of heat or exercise as a result. The FCI standard considers excessive shortness of breath and raspy breathing in the Dogue a severe fault. The brachycephalic head shape can also encourage ectropion—an outward rolling of the lower eyelid— which can lead to conjunctivitis (eye inflammation) and bacterial infections. Under the UK Kennel Club's Breed Watch system, the Dogue is classed as a Category 3 breed (formerly High Profile Breed), meaning it is a breed "where some dogs have visible conditions or exaggerations that can cause pain or discomfort."
Aortic stenosis is a disease of the heart valve in which the opening of the aortic valve is narrowed. Symptoms include exercise intolerance, exertional syncope (fainting from physical exertion) and sudden death. One study suggests a high predisposition in the breed. No severe cases were found in adult dogs, and most moderate to severely affected dogs died before one year of age, leading the authors to speculate that the disease is more severe in the Dogue than in other breeds.
Another heart problem in the breed is dilated cardiomyopathy, a condition in which the heart becomes weakened and enlarged and cannot pump blood efficiently. Some affected dogs may die suddenly without showing any signs of problems. Others may die from congestive heart failure after several weeks or months. Affected dogs are often euthanized at an early stage to avoid suffering.
An estimated 5% of dogs may be affected by footpad hyperkeratosis, a thickening of the footpad and sometimes nose. Lesions usually occur at the age of 6 months. X-rays submitted voluntarily to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals shows that more than 50% of Dogues in the database are affected by hip dysplasia. Over 21% are affected by elbow dysplasia. Approximately 3% of Dogues suffer from retinal dysplasia. Patella luxation affects around 2% of Dogues.
Reproduction.
Data from the Norwegian Kennel Club indicates a mean litter size of 8.1 puppies (ranging from 2-17) for the breed. The breed has a high stillborn and early neonatal mortality rate, with a stillborn rate of 14.2% and early neonatal mortality (death within 1 week from birth) of 10.4%. The average across all breeds in the study was 4.3% stillbirth and 3.7% early neonatal mortality. Excluding stillborn and early deaths, the mean litter size is 6.1. UK Kennel Club data shows that 27.8% (5 of 18) of Dogue litters were delivered by caesarean section.


Fasiakhali Wildlife Sanctuary

Fasiakhali Wildlife Sanctuary () is a wildlife sanctuary in southern Chakaria Upazilla of Bangladesh. located on an island in Bay of bengal in the south of the country. The area of the sanctuary is , and is located on eastern and northern hills of Bangladesh.
Climate.
The rainfall is very high during the monsoon season,
History.
Two forest villages of 112 inhabitants were setup in 1950. Later on a large population of Rohingya have settled inside the sanctuary.
Management.
The park is managed by one range officer and one forest beat guard. It is administered by the Coastal Forest Division at Bhola. It was declared as wildlife sanctuary on 2007 under the Bangladesh wildlife (Preservation) Amendment Act of 1947. No forestry activities is carried out in the mangrove forest except conservation activities. There are 16 villages inside the sanctuary with 33,00 population.
Biodiversity.
The sanctuary has a tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen type of forest; the sanctuary is covered with dense shrubby vegetation with patches of dense forest and bamboos.
Flora.
The vegetation is composed of forest of Gurjan (Dipterocarpus turbinatus) and Dhakijam Syzygium species. There are plantations of teak ("Tectona grandis"), "Eucalyptus" species and "Acacia" species.
Fauna.
The Indian elephant ("Elephus maximus") is the major threatened species found in the sanctuary. The elephants are mainly restricted to the Dulahazara, Ringvong and Fasiakhal reserved forest blocks. The savannas and the perrenial waterbodies inside the sanctuary support the population of elephants. The other threatened species are Clouded leopard ("Neofelis nebulosa") and Hog badger ("Arctonyx collaris") and along with Spotted deer ("Axis axis") and Wild boar ("Sus scrofa")
Threats.
The threats are encroachment for cultivation land, removal of forest produce and tree cutting by the local people . The long railway line proposed Chittagong- Cox's Bazar railway project will be passing through the buffer zone of the sanctuary .


John Eliot Coit

John Eliot Coit (March 9, 1880 – June 4, 1976) was an American professor specializing in the horticultural fields of avocado, citrus and carob, and second curator of University of California Citrus Variety Collection
Private life.
John Eliot Coit married Emilie A. Hanna in 1907 at Durham, North Carolina. They had three girls: Eleanor, Frances and Lucy. His first wife died August 10, 1924. In 1926 Coit was married to Luise Gait Viney of Pasadena. His second wife died on August 25, 1962.
Reared in Texas and North Carolina, he spent much of his early life learning the fundamentals of agriculture on experimentally level, with shovel and hoe.
Education.
He entered the North Carolina State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences in 1899, graduating in Agriculture in 1903.
Career.
Soon he became Assistant Professor of Pomology, University of California at the Whittier Pathological Laboratory and at the University of California Citrus Experiment Station, in Riverside, California. He was Superintendent of the Citrus Experiment Station at Mount Rubidoux in 1911–1912, and in that position was instrumental in selecting the site of the present Citrus Research Center and Experiment Station at Riverside.
From 1913 to 1917, Coit was Professor of Citriculture, University of California, Berkeley. Farm Advisor, Los Angeles County, 1917 to 1919. In 1919 he founded the "Coit Agricultural Service" and is today continuing in this line of service.
Among agricultural organizations, Coit has served as director of the Sierra Madre Lamanda Citrus Association, the California Avocado Association in 1915 and again from 1923 to 1947, and served as president three terms. In 1924 he helped organize the California Avocado Growers Association (now Calavo) and served as director until 1944.
Awards.
Dr. Coit has received honorary awards including: Fellow, American Association for the Advancement of Science. Sigma Xi, Cornell University 1905, and is a member of Alpha Zeta and Gamma Alpha. He received the first Award of Honor from the California Avocado Society and was presented with a Special Award of Honor in 1956, and in 1963 was made Director Emeritus by the Board in appreciation of his many contributions to the industry.
The following from the 1939 Yearbook of the California Avocado Society, is a succinct statement of the service of John Eliot Coit to the avocado industry:
Literature.
Coit's literary accomplishments have been valuable contributions both as technical and of a popular nature. He served as editor of the California Avocado Society Yearbook from 1932 until 1948.
He also authored the "Citrus fruits" book, which is an account of the citrus fruit industry, with special reference to California requirements and practices (Jan 1, 1915), and "A peony check-list" including the leading varieties of peonies of which authentic descriptions can be found in horticultural literature... (Jan 1, 1907)


Voyager Estate

Voyager Estate is an Australian winery located in the Margaret River wine region of Western Australia. James Halliday, "Australia’s leading wine writer" as described by Jancis Robinson MW, gives the winery his highest ranking, five red stars, in his "Halliday Australian Wine Companion" According to Ray Jordan, wine writer for "The West Australian", the winery produces excellent wines.
The Voyager Estate property lies in the cool meso-climate of Stevens Valley within the greater Wallcliffe sub-region of the Margaret River. This wine region is virtually unique in Australia in that it is surrounded on three sides by the Indian Ocean. The vines benefit from the maritime climate. The land is part of the Leeuwin's Naturaliste Ridge, rising from ancient granite land mass 2,000 million years old, among the world's oldest soils.
The Margaret River region has a low mean annual temperature range and in terms of rainfall, a Mediterranean climate with a low annual rainfall between October and April. In a dry vintage it is very similar in climate to Pomerol and Saint Èmilion in Bordeaux. This location, long regarded as key growing area for the finest Margaret River Chardonnay has also developed a reputation for producing elegant Cabernet Sauvignon and other Bordeaux varieties.
Both Leeuwin Estate and Xanadu Wines are located nearby; along with Voyager, they are considered the region's most acclaimed wineries and form the nucleus of the ‘Golden Triangle of Chardonnay’.
Voyager Estate's Cape Dutch-style tasting room and rose garden are major tourist attractions, and the winery is also known for its restaurant, named the best Regional Restaurant of the Year for 2018 by the WA Good Food Guide Awards. In the same competition, the same group named Head Chef Santiago (Santi) Fernandez as Best Regional Chef, and the Voyager Estate Restaurant took third place in the publication's ranking of the Top-50 Western Australian Restaurants.
Peter Gherardi planted the initial 14ha (35 acres) of vineyards in 1978 and named his winery Freycinet Estate. He purchased 40ha (99 acres) in the Stevens Valley after having read research done by Dr. Harold Olmo and Dr. John Gladstones, both of whom believed the Margaret River region had tremendous potential to grow grapes. “There was a lot of talk around the area that we were climatically similar to Bordeaux." said Gherardi, "So I planted Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, a little bit of Cabernet Franc and then the Bordeaux whites, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and also Chenin Blanc." These original vineyard blocks still surround the winery's cellar door, and the four additional vineyards of Voyager Estate are planted on well drained gravelly soils on adjoining properties.
The property was purchased in 1991 by Australian businessman Michael Wright, who renamed it Voyager Estate. Wright was a teetotaler who loved agriculture and the Margaret River region. His environmental consciousness was paired with a fanatical attention to detail in the vineyards. At the time of his death in 2012, the property had grown to 110ha (270 acres), all farmed following a “balanced and sustainable” form of viticulture, drawing upon organic principals and using organic composts and seaweed extracts to replace commercial fertilizer. Following Wright's passing, his daughter Alex Burt (née Wright) took over ownership of the property. She continues her father's careful, environmental approach to viticulture and winemaking, and two-thirds of its vineyards currently meet Australian Certified Organic standards, with the final third to be certified in 2019.
Steve James, Manager of Winemaking and Viticulture, began working for Voyager Estate as a viticulturalist and has been instrumental in the property's conversion to organic farming. His interest in all aspects of wine production carries over to the entire team, with winemakers and viticulturists working together over the course of the year to make sure that they are able to make best use of each vineyard and each block. Integrated pest control management is used, all pruning, leaf plucking, shoot tinning and green harvesting is done by hand, and flocks of local sheep are brought in to trim weeds.
A similar light-touch approach is utilized in the vinification. Grapes are hand-harvested and pass through a sorting table in order to ensure that only the highest-quality grapes are processed. Each block is handled separately until blending. Natural yeast is used in the white wines, and only the free-run juice is retained for the Estate Chardonnay, resulting in an elegant wine that reflects its vineyard source. Only tight-grained French oak barrels are used in the èlevage, adding finesse to the finished wine without taking over as the primary characteristic of the wine.
In addition to being widely available in Australia, Voyager Estate wines are exported to the United Kingdom, the United States, Singapore, China, Canada, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, Kenya, Denmark, and Germany.


Rogers Orchards

Rogers Orchards, in Southington, Connecticut, is an agricultural-produce company owned and operated by members of the same family since its founding in 1807 and one of the leading agricultural producers in Connecticut.
Totaling , it is Southington's largest farm and the largest apple-grower in the state, selling wholesale to local stores and retail at its farmers' markets.
It harvests and sells twenty varieties of apples annually, with McIntosh, Macoun, Cortland, and Empire among its most popular. Rogers Orchards also harvests and sells apricots, peaches, nectarines, plums, pumpkins, and other fruits and vegetables in season, and sells baked goods, honey and syrups, cut flowers, other farm-specialty products, and firewood.
Company history.
Founded by Chauncey Merriman in 1807, this family farm began operating in 1809, after Merriman's son, Anson, and four-year-old grandson, Josiah, began its apple orchards by planting one thousand Baldwin apple trees by hand. Once popular, now rare Baldwin apples, unlike other varieties, have been prized for the making of traditional New England cider.
Spanning "eight generations", the family farm, which came to be called Rogers Orchards, expanded to a operation split between two locations, the Home Farm and Sunnymount Farm, both located in Southington.
John Rogers, the president of Rogers Orchards and the great-great-great-great grandson of Chauncey Merriman, runs the operation, which has an estimated 18 employees.
Trade association memberships.
Rogers Orchards is an active member of trade organizations of Connecticut fruit growers, including: the Connecticut Pomological Society; the Connecticut Apple Marketing Board; the New England Apple Association; and the New England Apple Council. Rogers Orchards President John Rogers is a member of the board of directors and secretary-treasurer of the New England Apple Association and a former president of the Connecticut Pomological Society.
Site of Connecticut farm investment program launch.
On July 25, 2008, Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell used Rogers Orchards as a setting to announce the launch of a $500,000 investment program designed to aid Connecticut's farmers. Rogers Orchards President John Rogers acknowledged in a newspaper interview that he did not know why the governor chose his farm as the setting for her visit and announcement, but that he was pleased by her presence and support of local independent farming operations.


Second Chance for Greyhounds


Miniature Pinscher

The Miniature Pinscher, also known as the Zwergpinscher, and Min Pin, is a small breed of dog of the pinscher type originating in Germany. The breed's earliest ancestors may have included the German Pinscher mixed with Italian greyhounds and dachshunds.
Historical artifacts and paintings place the Min Pin as a very old breed, but factual documentation began less than 200 years ago, leaving its actual origins to debate. Many historians and those who have researched the background of the breed agree that this heritage is most likely correct, adding the shorthaired German Pinscher to the family tree. The international kennel club, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, lists the Miniature Pinscher in Group 2, Section 1.1 "Pinscher", along with the Dobermann, the German Pinscher, the Austrian Pinscher, and the other Toy Pinscher, the Affenpinscher. Other kennel clubs list the Miniature Pinscher in the Toy Group or Companion Group.
Etymology.
The misconception that the Miniature Pinscher is a "miniature Doberman" occurred because the Doberman Pinscher (a breed developed by Karl Friedrich Louis Dobermann around 1890) was introduced to the U.S. before the Miniature Pinscher. In 1919, the Miniature Pinscher was introduced to the AKC show ring. At the time, not knowing that it was referred to officially in Germany as the Zwergpinscher (little biter), the AKC referred to the breed as simply "Pinscher" and listed it in the miscellaneous category. When the Miniature Pinscher Club of America (MPCA) was created in 1929 (the year of the breed's official introduction into the AKC), they petitioned for Miniature Pinschers to be placed in the Toy group. The AKC's description, that the dog "must appear as a Doberman in miniature," led to the misconception common today that this breed is a "Miniature Doberman Pinscher".
The original name for this breed in the U.S. was "Pinscher (Toy)" until 1972 when the name was officially changed to Miniature Pinscher.
History.
Documentation of this breed begins less than 200 years ago. There is a drawing by Jean Bungartz, published in 1888 comparing the Miniature Pinscher to the German Pinscher.
Appearance.
The Miniature Pinscher is structurally a well balanced, sturdy, compact, short-coupled, smooth-coated dog. They are naturally well groomed, vigorous and alert. Characteristic traits are their hackney-like action, fearless animation, complete self-possession, and spirited presence. Legs should be straight with no bending in or out. They are also known to have separation anxiety. The Miniature Pinscher frequently has a docked tail and cropped ears, though the AKC no longer requires ear cropping for shows. They can also sometimes have natural erect ears.
Size.
According to the American Kennel Club, the Miniature Pinscher should be high with most desirable height at the highest point of the shoulder blades. Length is equal to height, though females may be slightly longer. The ideal weight is . There are also Teacup Miniature Pinschers. Which are about half the size of normal Miniature Pinschers.
Coat and color.
The coat is short and smooth, with no undercoat. Available colors include solid red, stag red, blue stag red, chocolate stag red, fawn stag red, as well as black, grey, chocolate, blue, and fawn with tan points or rust points. For showing in the United States, the AKC disqualifies all colors but the solid or stag red and the black or chocolate with rust points. The Pinscher-Schnauzer Club, which maintains the standard for showing in Germany, has the same restrictions. In the UK, blue with rust points is allowed in the show ring. White spots larger than half an inch or black spots on the points are disqualifications for showing in most countries. Merle is not an accepted coloring of the breed.
Care.
Grooming is easy, as the smooth, short-haired coat requires little attention, needing only occasional brushing and shampooing. Care must be taken in cold weather. Sweaters or baby blankets can help keep a Miniature Pinscher from getting too cold. Miniature Pinschers are an active breed and need access to a fenced yard, or be given a daily walk.
Some Miniature Pinschers are prone to becoming overweight, so it is necessary to watch calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity.
Temperament.
Miniature Pinschers are for experienced dog owners. Many people underestimate the care, time, and effort needed in order to raise a Miniature Pinscher. The Miniature Pinscher is an assertive, outgoing, active, and independent breed. Miniature pinschers are energetic and need a fenced yard to run in; they make great agility dogs. They are great escape artists and some recommend having a kennel with a lid on it for them to run around in. They are good watchdogs, as they are alert and wary of strangers. It is recommended that adults and teenagers, rather than young children, play with a Miniature Pinscher as younger children play rough. Miniature Pinschers are a stubborn breed when it comes to training, but once trained they will obey commands well.


Joseph Alexander Smith Acklen

Joseph Alexander Smith Acklen was a lawyer, slave owner, and veteran of the Texas Revolution, best known as the second husband of Adelicia Hayes Franklin Acklen Cheatham, and the father of U. S. Representative Joseph H. Acklen.
Early life.
Joseph Alexander Smith Acklen was born in Huntsville, Alabama on July 6, 1816 to Samuel Black and Elizabeth Hunt Acklen. His grandfather, John Hunt, was a Revolutionary War veteran and one of the founders of Huntsville. Acklen was among the first attendees of the University of Alabama, although there is no record of his graduation.
Career.
In 1835, Acklen joined other young men from Huntsville to join in the Texas Revolution. In 1840, Acklen was appointed United States Attorney for the North Alabama Judicial District.
Marriage.
In 1847, Acklen visited Nashville to attend a ball hosted by John Bell, where he met the recently widowed Adelicia Franklin, and they were soon engaged. They were married on May 8, 1849. However, the day prior to their marriage, she asked him to sign a contract allowing her to maintain sole ownership of the lands she brought into the marriage, to which he agreed. Joseph and Adelicia Acklen resided primarily at the Louisiana Estates that she inherited from her first husband, Isaac Franklin, however, they also built a summer home, the Belmont Mansion, completed in 1853. Acklen and Adelicia has six children, including U. S. Representative Joseph H. Acklen
Plantation management.
The Louisiana Plantations required a lot of labor to maintain, and in the mid-nineteenth century, slave labor was ubiquitous. While being a slave-holder, Acklen advocated humane treatment of slaves: his short book on his maintenance of plantations included discussion on treatment of plantation slaves, which called for proper food and medicine, clean living conditions and even advising the dismissal of overseers who mistreated or were cruel to slaves.
In 1863, when Acklen was nearing the end of his life and was already too weak to write on his own, he dictated what turned out to be his last known letter to his wife, where he expressed his pleasure at the end of slavery, believing that the North would soon win the war.
Death.
After the capture of Nashville in February 1863, Acklen returned to Louisiana to tend to the estates, at the request of Adelicia. While down there he caught what was called a “bilious remittent fever," and died on September 11, 1863.


Schapendoes

The Schapendoes () or Dutch Sheepdog, is a breed of dog originating in the Netherlands. The Schapendoes was originally a herding dog and general farm dog, but today also participates in dog sports such as agility and flyball.
History.
The Schapendoes descends from a general type of farm and herding dog popular in the Drenthe province of the Netherlands, and the Veluwe, an area of forests and swampland. ("does" is a local dialect meaning "swamp" see e.g. the town of Doesburg) The dogs there had many names, and were not a specific breed as we use the term today. They were the local working dog, adapted to the people, environment, and types of work needed. They were exhibited in early dog shows (in the 1870s) as "Domestic herding dog".
The dogs became nearly extinct during World War II, and the modern day breed descends from the few survivors. The Dutch "Raad van Beheer" (national kennel club) first recognised the breed in 1952, and the first standard was written in 1954. Related breeds are the Bearded Collie, the Puli, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog (Owczarek Nizinny), the Old English Sheepdog, the Briard, the Bergamasco Shepherd (Cane da pastore Bergamasco) and the Old German Sheepdog (Schafspudel), all of which are small versions of the "mountain type" herding and livestock guardian dogs.
The breed was recognised by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1971, as breed number 313 in Group 1, Section 1: Sheepdogs. Exported to the North America, the breed is recognised by the Canadian Kennel Club (as Dutch Sheepdog) and the United Kennel Club (USA) in their respective Herding groups. The American Kennel Club has listed the Schapendoes as part of its Foundation Stock Service, the first step in breed recognition. Additionally, it is recognised by numerous minor kennel clubs and internet-based dog registry businesses.
Appearance.
The Schapendoes is a medium-sized dog with long, thick fur on the body, legs, tail, and face. Small ears hang down, covered with long fur. The face has a moustache and beard. The coat is of any colour.
Height is up to 50 cm (19.7 in) at the withers and 12–20 kg (26–44 lb), up to 25 kg (55 lb) for males, in weight.
Temperament.
The breed standard describes the Schapendoes as friendly, high spirited, and affectionate. He is not a guard dog or aggressively protective, and if properly socialised while young, would most likely make a good family dog, as well as a good dog for active sports. Lively and intelligent dogs must receive regular training and outings. Temperament of individual dogs may vary.
The Schapendoes is furthermore very independent and will cooperate with its trainer, rather than obey orders.
Health.
Health problems or claims of exceptional health have not been documented for this breed. Before acquiring a puppy, make sure that sire and dame have all health clearances.


Jharkhand Rajya Gramin Bank

Jharkhand Rajya Gramin Bank (JRGB) is a Regional Rural Bank (RRB_). The bank was established on 1st April 2019 with the amalgamation of the erstwhile V"ananchal Gramin Bank" and erstwhile J"harkhand Gramin Bank" under the provisions of RRB Act 1976. This bank is sponsored by State Bank of India & is jointly Owned by the Government of India, Government of Jharkhand and State Bank of India.
The shareholders of the Bank are Govt. of India (50%), State Bank of India (35%) and Govt. of Jharkhand (15%). The Bank is operating in all 24 districts of Jharkhand State with its Head Office at Ranchi (sub-capital of Jharkhand State ). The bank has eight Regional Offices functioning at Ranchi, Singhbhum, Gumla, Palamau, Hazaribagh, Giridih,Deoghar & Godda.
History.
JRGB has been established on 01.04.2019 with the amalgamation of erstwhile Vananchal Gramin Bank and erstwhile Jharkhand Gramin Bank in terms of provisions of RRBs Act 1976. This bank is sponsored by State Bank of India & Owned by Govt. of India, Govt. of Jharkhand and State Bank of India . The shareholders of the Bank are Govt. of India (50%), State Bank of India (35%) and Govt. of Jharkhand (15%). The Bank is operating in all 24 districts of Jharkhand State with its Head Office at Ranchi (capital of Jharkhand State ). It has eight Regional Offices functioning at Ranchi, Singhbhum, Gumla, Palamau, Hazaribagh, Giridih,Deoghar & Godda. & no. of branches covered by these Regional Offices are as under:-

Regional Office
Headquarter
Concerned Districts
Total No. of Branches
I
Deoghar
Deoghar, Dumka & Jamtara
70
II
Godda
Godda, Pakur & Sahebganj
52
III
Daltonganj
Palamau
44
IV
Garhwa
Garhwa & Latehar
37
Overview.
Date of Establishment
30 June 2006
Total Geographical areas covered
(i) Santhal Parganas Division вЂ" 14,129 km2
(ii) Palamau Division- 11,651 km2
(iii) Total Area-25,780 km2
 Districts covered
09 (Nine)
Santhal Parganas Division
(i) Dumka (ii) Deoghar (iii) Jamtara (iv) Godda (v) Pakur (vi) Sahibganj
Palamau Division
(vii) Palamau (viii) Latehar (ix) Garhwa
No. of Blocks covered
 87
Regional Offices
(iii) Daltonganj (Region-III)
Business Performance
As on 31.03.12
As on 31.03.13
Deposit вЂ" 169151 lac
Advances- 67084 lac
Profit- 1621 lac
C:D Ratio- 39.66%
N.P.A.- 9.74%
Deposit вЂ" 187979 lac
Advances- 87232 lac
Profit- 1908 lac
C:D Ratio- 46.41%
N.P.A.- 7.34%
Number of Branches (203)
 Rural Branches (180), Semi-Urban Branches(23) & Urban Branches(NIL)
Number of Staff(Excluding Sponsor Bank) [913]
Amalgamation.
By central government notification on 31 January 2019, Jharkhand Gramin Bank and
Vananchal Gramin Bank were amalgamated to form
Jharkhand Rajya Gramin Bank. From 1 April 2019, all the 433 branches of merged bank are operating under new name.


Iggesund Paperboard

Iggesund Paperboard is a commission company of the Holmen Group and Europe's third largest manufacturer of high quality virgin fibre paperboard. Iggesund has a market share of about 20% in this sector.
History.
Iggesund is an industrial village in Sweden. Isak Breant Sr, a businessman and former court commissioner to Queen Kristina, established there a mill in 1685. Iggesunds Bruk (English:mill) was originally an ironworks, and the nearby forests were used to produce charcoal for the factory. In 1771, Iggesund Bruk acquired a small nearby company that made paper, Östanå paper mill. It was one of the first to try to use sawdust and wood to produce paper. However, the technique remained experimental. The mill burnt down in 1842. In 1869, Baron Gustav Tamm became the owner of Iggesunds Bruk, and built a large sawmill. It was a major transformation for the factory, which had always been an ironworks.
Iggesund's shares were first listed on Stockholmsbörsen in 1949. Lars G. Sundblad introduced paperboard manufacturing at Iggesund, which started in 1963. The merger of MoDo, Holmen and Iggesund resulted in the delisting of Iggesund shares from Stockholmsbörsen (1988), making Iggesund part of the holding, which was renamed to Holmen AB in 2000
Products.
Iggesund Paperboard's product range consists of two product families:
Mills.
Iggesunds Bruk manufactures solid bleached board (SBB, GZ) for the Invercote range in Iggesund, Sweden.
Workington manufactures folding box board (FBB, GC1, GC2) for the Incada range in Workington, England
Ströms Bruk produces plastic-coated and laminated paperboard on the basis of paperboard from Iggesund and Workington at a capacity of 40,000 tons/year in Strömsbruk, Sweden
Locations.
Head Office:
Sales Offices:
Sales Agents:
Distribution Terminals: