Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

MAZAR-E-SHARIF, Afghanistan - Men, women and children sit listlessly on the unkempt lawn of a hospital for drug addicts in this northern Afghan city. Inside, the waiting area is packed with women clad in light blue burqas, each with three or four kids in tow.

Ana Gul, 35, an opium user for eight years, says she came here after failing to kick her habit because opium cures her head and body aches. "No other medicine works effectively on me now," she said. Her 3-year-old daughter is also addicted because Gul smoked opium while pregnant.

Gul and her daughter are among an alarming and rapidly growing number of opium addicts in a country that is the world's main supplier of heroin.

And the problem is only getting worse as American combat troops withdraw amid evidence that U.S. counter-narcotics programs here have failed despite $7 billion in taxpayer funds spent to tackle the source of the problem: poppy fields.

The U.S. government has paid the poppy farmers to switch to legitimate crops, such as wheat, yet poppy cultivation has proven too lucrative to slow.

In a report last year, the Pentagon said Taliban and other insurgent groups are expanding their use of illicit drug trade to fund their operations because the U.S. withdrawal has hurt Afghan government counter-narcotic activities, which had relied on U.S. air support and other assistance.

The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime estimates the export value of opium trade at about $4 billion, "with a quarter of that being earned by opium farmers and the rest going to district officials, insurgents, warlords and drug traffickers."

In 2014, opium cultivation rose to record levels: more than 553,000 acres, up 7% from the year before, according to the UNODC's recently released Afghanistan Opium Survey 2014. That is turned into some 380 tons of heroin and morphine annually, 85% of the global supply, according to U.N. figures.

The domestic toll is heavy. The number of Afghans addicted to opium and other drugs has soared 60% since 2009 to as many as 1.6 million, or 5% of the population, the U.S. Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction reports.

Most Afghans view opium as a medicine that treats everything from a headache to cancer. Often, it's the only palliative available in the rugged country's remote regions.

See original here:
Afghanistan's opium addiction hits new high

Carol R. Johnson Biography: Childhood [1 of 11]
Anecdotes and images from Johnson #39;s childhood give insight into her later career as a landscape architect. Interviewed by Charles A. Birnbaum, July 2006. For...

By: The Cultural Landscape Foundation

Read the original post:
Carol R. Johnson Biography: Childhood [1 of 11] - Video

By Jim Bloch Voice Reporter

By the time the city of Detroit entered bankruptcy in July 2013, the beauty signified by the name Belle had become drab and tattered. In February 2014, as part of the bankruptcy restructuring, the Michigan Emergency Loan Board entered into a 30-year agreement with the state of Michigan to operate Belle Isle as the states 102nd state park. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources, which operates the state park system, does not pay rent to the city; instead, the city saves the $6 million or so per year it had been spending on the island.

This is our ninth month at Belle Isle, said Karris Floyd, manager of Belle Isle and the Milliken Nature Center, the wetland state park west of the Renaissance Center, speaking to 14 environmental and outdoor journalists on Oct. 24. He spoke in the Casino on Belle Isle, built in 1904 and used as an event hall ever since.

The Casino was not in good condition when we got here, said Floyd. Weve basically turned this into a very energy efficient building. We replaced all the lighting in here. Weve gone through and done a total cleaning. A lot of the windows were not energy efficient, so we changed those. This building is rented daily for weddings, meetings, you name it, year round. So we really put a lot of time and effort and money into this building.

The poor condition of the casino was the tip of the iceberg.

Because of the bankruptcy, the state wanted to come in and get Belle Isle back to what it was, said Floyd. We have a lot of specific items under the lease that were responsible for. That includes getting all the buildings back up and running. When we came in, we encountered a lot of homeless people living here. We encountered a lot of buildings in disarray, no roofs, no toilets, no sinks. All of that was a real challenge. Were also responsible for bringing the community back to Belle Isle. We are working to make the island safe again. We have a partnership with the Michigan State Police and also the Michigan Conservation Officers. They patrol the island for us. They do it 6 a.m.-10 p.m. every day.

The DNR plans to invest $20 million in the island through 2017.

The turnaround to date has been remarkable.

Belle Isle is emblematic of whats going on in Detroit, said Dan Wyant, director of the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. It fell into disrepair. It has come back. The DNR and the state deserve a lot of credit for that.

If were not fulfilling our end of the lease, the city of Detroit at any time can take the island back, said Floyd. Continued...

Continue reading here:
Michigans 102nd state park thrives under DNR

The recent storms have dumped a load of snow across Nebraska, but the warmer temperatures are welcome. Take advantage of the warm weather to scout for potential issues in your landscape.

Heavy snow and ice build-up on plants can cause some problems. Extensive build-up can lead to limb breakage or even splits on limbs and trunks.

An online service is needed to view this article in its entirety. You need an online service to view this article in its entirety.

Or, use your linked account:

Need an account? Create one now.

Or, use your linked account:

kAmx562==J[ 2==@H E96 :46 2?5 D?@H E@ >6=E ?2EFC2==J 7C@> E96 =:>3D] x7 E96 D?@H 😀 H6:89:?8 5@H? E96 EC66 @C E96 =:>3D[ 86?E=J 3CFD9 @77 E96 D?@H] s@ ?@E 9:E 2 3C2?49 E@ @C6 52>286 E@ E96 A=2?ED]k^Am

kAmtG6?EF2==J[ :E 😀 F?2G@:523=6i $@>6H96C6 2=@?8 E96 =:?6[ E96C6 H:== 36 D@>6 DE@C> 52>286 E@ J@FC EC66D]k^Am

kAm%96 }63C2D<2 u@C6DE $6CG:46 92D 2 76H E:AD 7@C 9@>6@H?6CD H9@ 2C6 42C:?8 7@C DE@C>52>2865 EC66Dik^Am

kAm? &D6 D276EJ 2E 2== E:>6D] &D6 42FE:@? 2C@F?5 EC66D 5FC:?8 2?5 27E6C 6IEC6>6 H62E96C] u2==:?8 =:>3D 2?5 563C:D >2J 36 92K2C5D =@?8 27E6C E96 DE@C> 92D A2DD65]k^Am

Originally posted here:
Warm days a good time to check yard for storm damage

MISSION STATEMENT: Our goal is not to install just another pool or landscaping, but to create an outdoor living space that fits your needs, your desires and your budget.

PRODUCTS: We offer planning, design, construction, installation, maintenance, service, renovation, repairs of swimming pools, spas, water features, water gardens, waterfalls, fountains, fish ponds, pondless water features, koi ponds, garden bridges, desert landscaping, dry river bed landscape design, xeriscape, back yard landscaping, desert trees, shrubs, sod, boulders, decorative gravel, artificial rocks and boulders, drip irrigation, sprinkler systems, flagstones, interlocking concrete pavers, concrete patios, walks, driveways, stamp concrete, court yards, seat walls, retaining walls, manufactured stone facing, concrete stains removal, concrete resurfacing, barbecues, fire pits, fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, low voltage landscape lighting, led lights, artificial grass, synthetic putting greens, fake grass dog run, alumawood patio covers, gazebos, fog and mist cooling systems and related outdoor improvements for the residential customer.

ARTIFICIAL GRASS Artificial grass, sometime called fake grass, artificial turf, synthetic turf, fake turf, artificial lawn, pet grass, synthetic artificial grass or synthetic putting green, synthetic lawn, when installed properly can add years of enjoyment of your back yard.Installation price for artificial grass will vary depending of the existing ground condition and and the artificial turf used and usually range between $8 and $10 per sf.

SERVICE AREA: For the past 25 years, Belle Vue Landscaping Pools And Spas has provided quality services to the following Coachella Valley and Morongo Basin Cities, surrounding Communities and Zip Codes in the State of California, CA: Indio, CA 92201, 92202, 92203, Palm Desert, CA 92260, 92211, 92255, 92261, La Quinta, CA 92253, 92247, 92248, Bermuda Dunes, CA 92203, Coachella, CA 92236, Thermal, CA 92274, Indian Wells, CA 92210, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270, Cathedral City, CA 92234, 92235, 92236, Thousand Palms, CA 92276, Palm Springs, CA 92262, 92263, 92264, Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240, 92241, Twentynine Palms, CA 92277, 92278, Yucca Valley, CA 92284, 92285, 92286, Joshua Tree, CA 92252, Morongo Valley, CA 92256. Belle Vue Landscaping Pools And Spas also provide landscaper services to these fine communities: Sun City Palm Desert, Palm Desert CA, Sun City Shadow Hills, Indio CA, Shadow Hills Estate, Indio CA, Griffit Ranch, La Quinta CA and so many more.

Belle Vue Landscaping Pools And Spas, 78206 Varner Road Suite D-134, Palm Desert, CA 92211 E-Mail: info@bellevuelandscapingpoolsandspas.com California contractor license #499370

Read the original here:
Landscape Contractor Swimming Pool Builder 3D Design Palm ...

THERE was nothing new and surprising in the recent official statements, including those made by the foreign affairs and national security adviser Sartaj Aziz, that the Islamic State (IS) poses no serious threat to Pakistan. The statements nevertheless reflect the traditional, simplistic view of internal security taken by government officials.

Such viewpoints originate from a weak and superficial understanding of the threats facing Pakistans security and stability. The conventional security approach in Pakistan to comprehend and encounter insecurity and violence is confined to two strands of threats: sectarian violence and tribal militancy. Surprisingly, both Pakistani state and society, which have long remained in a state of denial and confusion about the Pakistani Taliban, took more than a decade to realise the threat posed by tribal militancy.

The threat perception about foreign terrorist groups has been the worst. Although the footprints of Al Qaeda had been identified in major attacks in Pakistan, the terrorist group was not considered important by the security apparatus and was always thought of as part of a global problem and as Americas responsibility.

The persisting state of denial about the presence of IS in Pakistan and the failure to foresee and encounter its impact on the countrys militant landscape will compound the problem. The announcement by IS of its organisational structure for Pakistan and Afghanistan, which it describes as Khorasan province, is a significant development in many ways.

Many groups and individuals from the region had announced their allegiance to Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, but IS has formally accepted the allegiance of Hafez Saeed Khan, a former leader of the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan from Orakzai Agency, and appointed a former Afghan Taliban leader Mullah Abdul Rauf Khadim as his deputy. All those who had announced their allegiance to Baghdadi now have an obligation to accept Hafiz Saeed as their leader and to pool their resources to strengthen the so-called province of Khorasan.

Of course, this is a different organisational model from the ones militant groups in Pakistan and Afghanistan have been following. Despite their ideological and political bonds and operational alliances, militant groups in this region tend to keep their independence intact. A strict hierarchical control and command system will have certain security implications.

ISs regional chapter could appoint local commanders across Pakistan and Afghanistan. They would try to absorb smaller militant groups thus raising the threat of large-scale coordinated attacks in both countries. However it remains to be seen how the local groups and commanders will follow and adapt to the strict IS organisational framework.

Additionally, violent confrontation between IS affiliates and other major militant groups operating in the region such as Al Qaeda, the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan, Jamaatul Ahrar and the Afghan Taliban cannot be ruled out. If IS achieves some visible success in the region, it will certainly earn the wrath of major groups, which have a history of not tolerating emerging groups.

The IS factor has provided a lifeline to militant groups in the region. Groups that were not happy with Al Qaedas operational strategies are now more attracted to IS. Their frustration with Al Qaeda was mainly due to the conviction that their ultimate objective of establishing an Islamic state and system could not be achieved only through terrorist attacks. The IS model showed them the importance of controlling territory in order to project and establish power on the ground.

It is probably due to the increasing influence of IS over Pakistani and Afghan terrorist groups that Al Qaeda for the first time has opened its doors to local groups and individuals. Before the significant strategic change, at Al Qaedas core was an exclusive club of Egypt-, Saudi-, Yemeni- and Libya-origin militants. This environment of competition among major terrorist groups can intensify threats in the country and the region.

Read more from the original source:
The Islamic State factor has provided a lifeline to militant groups in the region.

Innovative Landscapes is your complete landscape design and construction company in the Hills District, Sydney.

We believe in creating landscapes for lifestyles, no matter what that lifestyle is. Our landscaping team can design a tailored outdoor living space that ensures you take full advantage of your surroundings, whilst staying in tune with the land and natural environment.

We have proven experience in transforming residential spaces from inner-city courtyards and suburban blocks to manicured acreage as well as performing work in the commercial market.

Our landscapers work closely with the client from the concept stage through to the completion of the project, and maintain a professional and approachable attitude throughout the process. This results in an enjoyable and stress-free experience for everyone.

Our services cover everything from outdoor kitchens and swimming pool design to pergolas, decking and retaining walls. We also provide one of the top services for pool construction to Hills District and wider Sydney residents. As with all our projects, all elements of the process are managed by Innovative Landscapes, so you only deal with one company.

Whether its pool design and construction or a total backyard makeover at Innovative Landscapes, we work hard to deliver a final product that exceeds all expectations. To ensure your landscaping investment is worthwhile, we will create a space that not only adds value to your property, but that you will enjoy being in. Why not make the most of your surroundings and enjoy your leisure time at home?

Have a look through our website to find out more about our work in landscape construction and design in Sydney Hills and the surrounding areas. Or, give us a call on 0410 414 473 to discuss your project.

View original post here:
Landscape Design & Pool Construction Hills District Sydney ...

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. -- Landscape architects must come upon the Shore Course with the same timidity that befalls a caricaturist confronted with the Mona Lisa.

Consider the image: jade-colored fairways sweep along a Pacific Ocean pounding insistently at the shore, while bentgrass greens are surrounded by natural rocks and sugary bunkers. Here and there, the horizon is pierced by the jagged scribble of cypress trees.

Part of the stately Monterey Peninsula Country Club, the Shore Course is one of several renowned golf courses on the Monterey Peninsula. This week, three of them -- Shore Course, Spyglass Hill and the famed Pebble Beach Golf Links -- will play host to the 2015 AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am.

The marquee event emphasizes the region's golf ties, with 28 courses helping bolster the Monterey County's $2.3 billion tourist economy. And yet these luxuries have an open secret in an arid, drought-stricken setting where policymakers fight over water like bickering divorcees -- they require billions of gallons annually, and no one says a peep.

One reason is that California's loose groundwater rules have given many courses unfettered access to water. Another is that several courses, including those playing host this week to Bill Murray, Ray Romano, Buster Posey and some of the world's best golfers, realized long ago that the well was running dry, and decided to do something about it.

That story was the first chapter in a book that is still being written, one that involves litigation, plenty of wheeling and dealing and how communities define themselves. As California's seemingly interminable drought stretches on, local golf courses have started turning to recycled wastewater, begun to let creeks run dry and even reshaped course layouts.

But another chapter is still to come. While many courses have made impressive strides in adapting low-impact water practices, more still pump unregulated water from aquifers.

That could be about to change. Under California's 2014 Sustainable Groundwater Management Act, the state's highest-priority groundwater basins -- and several on the Central Coast rank at or near the top -- will be forced to examine their long-term sustainability for the first time in state history.

And that means some courses could find themselves playing from a very difficult lie.

How it Works

Read the original:
How Monterey County golf courses find ways to deal with California's ongoing drought

Parker Services land grading and land clearing
http://landscapinggastonia.com land grading and land clearing For all your landscaping needs in Gastonia.

By: Adam Parker

View post:
Parker Services land grading and land clearing - Video

DPM sad Cameron Highlands land clearing still happening

Pahang: Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin Tuesday expressed his sadness with the continuous intrusion in Cameron Highlands despite enforcement operations.

The Deputy Prime Minister said what was more worrying was that the culprits were blatantly challenging the authorities and if it continued, he did not know how long the highlands would last.

"I am very upset. When you look closer, some of the land covered in plastic is agriculture land which have been cleared even while enforcement is being carried out.

"I have been here two days and see Cameron Highlands severely damaged, and if no stern and effective action is taken, I do not know how long this area will last," he said.

He was speaking to reporters after a surprise visit to Cameron Highlands to review the latest recovery development and inspection of the authorities following the floods and landslide at the holiday destination in November last year.

Muhyiddin, who is also chairman of the Special Committee on Flash Floods in Cameron Highlands, said although more than 500 officers and staff from various departments and agencies were involved in the operations to clean up the land, he said these were not enough as the land-clearing was severe and had a worrying effect on the environment.

However, he said, the enforcement would be more effective by increasing the number of enforcers and equipment as well as implementing the law under the Land and Mines Department or the Forestry Department.

Muhyiddin said among the measures which could be implemented was creating permanent posts in the areas which had been identified as focal places for intrusion.

He said the matter would be decided after obtaining the views of Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar and Armed Forces Chief Tan Sri Zulkifeli Mohd Zin as well as the Pahang state government at the next meeting of the Special Committee on the Flash Floods in Cameron Highlands.

Read this article:
DPM sad Cameron Highlands land clearing still happening