deicer

For those in the latest lockdown, and for everyone who is just tired of the pandemic, Happy Easter! Eric Idle - "Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life" - STEREO HQ - YouTube

Experience...

Maybe Kip would like to install this on his floating home? ? https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/superyacht-underwater-feature/index.html Superyacht feature transports passengers underwater in minutes Tamara Hardingham-Gill, CNN • Published 29th March 2021 FacebookTwitterEmail (CNN) — The notion of hopping on an observation platform and being transported down to the ocean within minutes seems rather fanciful. But superyacht owners may soon be able to do just that thanks to a new design that provides a "submerged viewing experience" for up to seven people on board. The Hydrosphere concept can be deployed from the hull of the vessel, immersing the owner and their guests into the surrounding ocean environment. Described as a space "to share magical moments and to get underwater quickly," its designers say it provides an experience close to that of diving in a submersible. Related content Beautiful private island in Bahamas goes up for sale Submerged viewing experience A rendering of Gresham Yacht Design's latest concept, which immersing yacht passengers underwater. Gresham Yacht Design The unveiling of this new concept from Gresham Yacht Design comes as demand for personal submersibles is increasing. Last year, Florida-based luxury submersible company Triton Submarines delivered the first six-person acrylic-hulled sub that can dive to 1,000 meters (3,280 feet) and the same company sold a 24-seater submersible, Triton DeepView 24, to Vietnamese resort Vinpearl, which plans to provide excursions around the Hon Tre Island in Nha Trang. Meanwhile, various cruise ship companies have been investing in subs in recent years-- Asia's Genting Cruise Lines has at least four ships equipped with submarines supplied by Dutch company U-Boat Worx. While the Hydrosphere concept doesn't quite reach the great depths of some of the latest submersibles, descending just a few meters under the hull, it will no doubt be a hugely attractive feature for those keen to see more of the underwater world. "There is a large demand for personal submersibles, which require hangar space and specialist operations to deploy, which takes time," Gresham Yacht Design founder Steve Gresham tells CNN Travel. Related content The shadow vessel concept that keeps superyachts free from Covid-19 Underwater adventures The design team describe it as a space "to share magical moments and to get underwater quickly." Gresham Yacht Design "The best thing about the Hydrosphere is that it can be operated very quickly and easily. Unless you happen to be under the water when the Hydrosphere is deployed, you wouldn't know it was there." The Hydrosphere concept is equipped with onboard lighting so those on board can use it any time they wish, even when the yacht is traveling at a maximum speed of up to two knots. When it's out of action, the feature can be retracted back into the hull, where it's protected by an external hatch. "The only other way to get this type of experience is to dive in a submersible," says Gresham. "This takes time though. Our Hydrosphere takes mere minutes to deploy, meaning that you don't miss that fleeting moment when a beautiful sea creature swims past." Related content What happens when an Instagrammer designs a superyacht Fast and convenient It will offer a "submerged viewing experience" for up to seven people onboard. Gresham Yacht Design According to Gresham, the concept can be applied to any existing vessel measuring 90 meters or more as a refit, "but the preferred route would be to integrate it into a new build project." Ultimately, the price tag for this project is difficult to estimate, as it will involve either refitting an existing vessel or incorporating the feature into a brand new build. But it's safe to assume that anyone keen to snap one up will need very deep pockets indeed. The concept is already receiving a lot of interest, so there's a chance it may come to fruition within the next few years. "The technology and knowhow to make this idea into reality already exists, so it wouldn't be difficult to build," says Gresham. He and the rest of the team at Gresham Yacht Design are keen to move the concept forward and hope it will be the start of a new way of experiencing and studying the ocean. "Anyone who loves the sea and wants to immerse themselves in their environment will be attracted to this idea," he adds.

Southwest confirms order for 100 737 Max and 155 options. https://boeing.mediaroom.com/news-releases-statements?item=130843 Southwest Airlines Orders 100 Boeing 737 MAX Jets, Plus 155 Options Deal raises Southwest’s 737 MAX commitment to more than 600 jets between the 737-7 and larger 737-8 Southwest aims to modernize future fleet with improved fuel efficiency, environmental performance and operational flexibility Order brings stability to Boeing’s largest commercial program and its suppliers Click for Photos(1) CLOSE SEATTLE, March 29, 2021 — Boeing [NYSE:BA] and Southwest Airlines today announced the carrier will continue to build its business around the 737 MAX family with a new order for 100 airplanes and 155 options across two models. The deal comes after a multi-year fleet evaluation by Southwest and means that Boeing and its suppliers could build more than 600 new 737 MAX jets for the airline through 2031. Southwest had been exploring options to modernize the largest component of its fleet: the 737-700 that serves the airline’s needs for a 140-150 seat airplane. With the new agreement, the airline reaffirmed the 737-7 as its preferred replacement and growth airplane. The jet will complement the 737-8, which serves Southwest’s needs for a 175-seat model. Both 737 MAX family members will reduce fuel use and carbon emissions by at least 14% compared to the airplanes they replace, helping to improve operating costs and environmental performance. Southwest said the solution allows it to maintain the operational efficiencies of an all-Boeing 737 fleet to support its low-cost, point-to-point route network. “Southwest Airlines has been operating the Boeing 737 series for nearly 50 years, and the aircraft has made significant contributions to our unparalleled success. Today’s commitment to the 737 MAX solidifies our continued appreciation for the aircraft and confirms our plans to offer the Boeing 737 series of aircraft to our Employees and Customers for years to come,” said Gary Kelly, Southwest’s chairman and CEO. “We are proud to continue our tradition of being the world’s largest operator of an all-Boeing fleet.” “In addition to supporting our efforts to operate sustainably and efficiently, the 737 MAX offers Employees and Customers travel comforts such as a quieter cabin, larger overhead bin spaces, seating with adjustable headrests, and more galley space for onboard service,” said Mike Van de Ven, Southwest’s chief operating officer. The new purchase agreement takes Southwest’s order book to 200 737-7s and 180 737-8s, more than 30 of which have already been delivered. Southwest will also have 270 options for either of the two models, taking the carrier’s direct-buy commitment to more than 600 airplanes. The airline also plans additional 737 MAX jets through third-party lessors. “Southwest Airlines has long been a leader and bellwether for the airline industry and this order is a big vote of confidence for commercial air travel. As vaccine distribution continues to pick-up, people are returning to the skies and fueling hopes for a full recovery and renewed growth across our industry,” said Stan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We are deeply honored by Southwest’s continuing trust in Boeing and the 737. Their fleet decision today brings more stability for our biggest commercial program and will ensure that our entire 737 family will be building new airplanes for Southwest for years to come.” As part of the agreement, Southwest will also expand its use of Boeing’s digital solutions to support its 737 MAX fleet, including Airplane Health Management, Maintenance Performance Toolbox and digital navigation charting tools. Boeing will also provide system software upgrades and new wireless communications-enabling equipment to support Southwest’s operations. #### About the 737 MAX Family Designed and built in Renton, Washington, the 737 MAX family delivers superior efficiency, flexibility and reliability for the single-aisle airplane market. The 737-7 can fly 3,850 nautical miles, the longest range in the MAX family and 1,000 nautical miles farther than its predecessor. This derivative seats a maximum of 172 passengers, compared to the 737-8’s 210 maximum seats. The 737-8 can fly 3,550 nautical miles. This additional capability allows airlines to offer new and more direct routes for passengers. Every 737 MAX features the new Boeing Sky Interior, highlighted by modern sculpted sidewalls and window reveals, LED lighting that enhances the sense of spaciousness and larger pivoting overhead storage bins. Other technical specifications can be found at www.boeing.com/commercial/737max/ About The Boeing Company Boeing is the world’s largest aerospace company and leading provider of commercial airplanes, defense, space and security systems, and global services. As a top U.S. exporter, the company supports commercial and government customers in more than 150 countries. Building on a legacy of aerospace leadership, Boeing continues to lead in technology and innovation, deliver for its customers and invest in its people and future growth.

Today's Sunday mood for a sunny afternoon in the GTA...

Not aviation, but if you have 42 minutes to waste... https://youtu.be/5oE6Os-7ws4

I think you can strap onto one of these and go for a ride!

Kewl! https://youtu.be/mrJgoQz5wSU

The issues just don't stop... https://airwaysmag.com/industry/boeing/faa-decompression-b737-ng-max/ https://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgad.nsf/0/936cfd41fd8f7c84862586850050b2e8/$FILE/2021-01-04.pdf

With the new rover safely on Mars, the first pictures are in....

New: Mars In 4K - YouTube

The only part of the game I will be watching! https://www.airforcetimes.com/news/your-air-force/2021/02/04/heres-how-the-air-force-will-pull-off-a-triple-bomber-super-bowl-flyover/

https://www.instagram.com/p/CK4RJYWrjY_/

https://abcnews.go.com/Lifestyle/wireStory/72-year-scotch-whisky-fetches-54000-auction-75562062 72-year-old Scotch whisky fetches over $54,000 in auction A 72-year-old bottle of Glen Grant single malt whisky from Scotland has fetched more than $54,000 in an auction in Hong Kong HONG KONG -- A 72-year-old bottle of Glen Grant single malt whisky from Scotland fetched more than $54,000 in an auction in Hong Kong on Friday. It is the first time that the 1948 Glen Grant whisky, by independent bottler Gordon & MacPhail, was offered in an auction. It is number 88 of 290 decanters bottled by the company and was auctioned off by Bonhams, fetching a price of 421,600 Hong Kong dollars ($54,300) including premium. The bottle had a book estimate of 300,000 to 380,000 Hong Kong dollars ($38,000 to $49,000). The whisky, the oldest from the Glen Grant distillery, is in a Dartington crystal decanter with an American black walnut presentation box. Despite the economic uncertainty brought by the pandemic, interest in rare whiskies remains high. Compared to other investment commodities, collectable whisky has done well in the past 10 years with a four-fold increase in prices, said Christopher Pong, wine and whisky specialist at Bonhams. Other whiskies featured in Friday’s auction included a 35-year-old Hibiki whisky from Japan in a Kutani ceramic decanter that sold for 372,000 Hong Kong dollars ($48,000).

While I do like the sentiment, unfortunately, manure is hazardous and lethal. https://extension.psu.edu/reducing-risks-from-animals-and-manure#:~:text=Animal manure is a significant,potential source of Salmonella bacteria.

https://www.warhistoryonline.com/guest-bloggers/newly-restored-messerschmitt.html Newly restored Messerschmitt Bf109G flies again: Test pilot shares his experience

Good Morning Upper Deck I'm not attaching anything to the story, draw your own conclusions. I am just using to illustrate that one family rolled the dice and came out at least $300K in debt.

Lots of money in, not much out... https://www.charitydata.ca/charity/pathy-family-foundationfondation-de-la-famille-pathy/857688428RR0001/

This is the first story I have seen that shows the consequences of travelling in a pandemic. https://www.thechronicleherald.ca/news/provincial/nova-scotia-snowbirds-face-large-medical-bill-after-contracting-covid-19-in-florida-545262/#Echobox=1611700059 Nova Scotia snowbirds face huge medical bill after contracting COVID-19 in Florida A Kings County couple are facing hefty medical bills after they both became ill with COVID-19 while in Florida. Debbie Mailman of Aylesford says she and her husband, Wayne, travel annually to Florida for six months of the year because their arthritis, muscular issues, fibromyalgia and other existing conditions would leave them in in pain if they stayed in the cold Canadian winter. “If we stayed home we'd be in agony all the time,” she said. “We just come here for the warm weather.” They were booked to go to their Florida home, in a park for snowbird retirees in Largo, on Jan. 1. But, a good deal on airline tickets came up so they booked those and left on Dec. 5. After they arrived, Mailman said, they weren't feeling well, but they chalked it up to a combination of their jet lag and existing health issues. “When we fly, we're sick for the first week or so here,” she said. “We didn't realize we were as sick as we were.” Sometime around Dec. 21, she said, she realized that their annual insurance for their stay was still booked for Jan. 1, so she called the insurance provider and rescheduled it to start that day, getting a new policy number. On Dec. 22, Wayne fell and couldn't get up, and she couldn't help him because she felt so weak. An ambulance was called and took them both to hospital, where they tested positive for the virus. “He didn't look right, he looked awful,” Mailman said of her husband, who until that day told her he felt fine. Mailman said she was hospitalized for eight days and on oxygen, but her husband's condition was worse. He was on a ventilator for a time, and remained in hospital until he was airlifted back to Nova Scotia last week. He remains in a 14-day quarantine at Valley Regional Hospital, where he is on oxygen and still unable to walk. Mailman, though, is still in Florida. “They wouldn't let me on the ambulance with him, because I hadn't had a recent negative COVID test,” she said. “I've been going everywhere to try to get one.” The Canadian government requires Canadians returning here to have a negative test within 72 hours of a flight. She has a test booked for Wednesday, and a flight for Thursday. She said they don't know how or when they contracted the virus. “I have no no clue,” she said. “We only bought groceries and wore a mask. We didn't go anywhere without a mask and mostly stayed in the park.” She doesn't remember anything of her first three days in the hospital, but was told that within an hour Wayne went into cardiac arrest and suffered a collapsed lung. He was put on the ventilator that day. When she got back to her Florida home after the hospital stay, she heard from the insurance company. It said it isn't going to cover their medical costs. “I argued, but they wouldn't listen to me,” she said. The company told her the policy was null and void because the couple already had COVID-19 when they updated the policy. Nor would it honour the Jan. 1 policy, when her husband was already in hospital, because the virus was also a pre-existing condition. “That's what I've been fighting,” she said. She said the company did arrange the air ambulance to bring Wayne back to Nova Scotia so he wouldn't keep accumulating hospital bills there. But, she said, she's been told the bill for her husband's stay could be upwards of $300,000. She doesn't yet know what the cost of her stay will be. “Right now I just can't even think about it, upsets me so much and I get a migraine,” she said. “I've decided to put it on the back-burner for now, until I get home and see what kind of condition Wayne's in. I'm just going to concentrate on him.” After the couple was hospitalized, Mailman didn't see her husband again until he was being prepared for the air ambulance because he had been in isolation. “He's lost a lot of weight, he's very sick,” she said. She said she had talked to him four times a day since he arrived in Kentville, and she can tell from his voice that he's getting better and stronger. But, she said, he's still on oxygen and needs to learn to walk again.

Just an interesting picture...

Video of the birth of Kip's new boat!!!