Author: Political X Patriot

In a recent column from the NYC transportation newsletter On The Way, Rep. Zoran Mamdani’s campaign for fare-free buses is presented as both appealing and controversial. While the concept garners support for simplifying public transit, transportation experts warn it could exacerbate issues within the city’s transit system, potentially diverting ridership from subways and undermining fare revenue crucial for operations. Mamdani claims that about $630 million in annual fare revenue losses could be offset by increased taxes on high earners, which he estimates could generate $10 billion yearly. Critics, including transit consultant Jarrett Walker, argue that a free bus system might…

The article discusses a significant shift in understanding carbon emissions from rivers and streams, as highlighted by new research in the journal Nature. Traditionally, scientists believed that most carbon dioxide (CO₂) released from rivers originated from atmospheric carbon absorbed since 1955. However, this study reveals that nearly 60% of the CO₂ actually comes from ancient carbon sources, some thousands of years old. Key findings include: Rivers and streams emit about 2 billion tonnes of CO₂ annually, with only 41% from modern sources. Ancient carbon is primarily released by large rivers and landscapes rich in carbonates and mountains. This research impacts…

The Prime Minister has announced a nationwide statutory investigation into grooming gangs in response to recommendations from Baroness Louise Casey’s audit concerning group-based child sexual abuse. Keir Starmer acknowledged these recommendations, including the need for a national survey in England and Wales, after previously facing criticism for hesitating to initiate such action. The government had initially rejected calls for an inquiry, citing an ongoing seven-year investigation led by Professor Alexis Jay. However, the Prime Minister clarified that he was open to revisiting the issue after Casey modified her stance on the necessity of new research. The investigation will allow local…

The article discusses the evolution and significance of the Lycoming O-320 aircraft engine, which was introduced in the late 1950s. Classified as a four-cylinder, air-cooled, horizontally opposed, direct-drive piston engine, it offers between 150 and 160 horsepower. Noteworthy for its reliability and ease of maintenance, the O-320 has been a dependable choice for various aircraft, including the Piper PA-18 Super Cub and Cessna 172 Skyhawk. Key features of the O-320 include a magnet ignition system that generates its own power to ignite the spark plug, and a direct drive design which enhances reliability by minimizing power losses. Its horizontally opposed…

A Delta flight from Dallas to Boston was forced to evacuate when a drunk passenger, identified as Alicia, refused to leave the aircraft. Bodycam footage revealed Alicia, who initially claimed to have consumed only two shots of liquor, later admitted to drinking six glasses of wine along with Prosecco and tequila. As officers attempted to persuade her to exit, she exhibited confusion and defiance, insisting she wouldn’t leave the plane. When medical personnel failed to convince her, police evacuated the remaining passengers to physically remove her. Alicia protested, crying out for her belongings and questioning the officers’ actions. Once at…

Summary: Sam Burns is currently competing at the 125th US Open at Oakmont Country Club, demonstrating strong performance despite a rocky start. In his opening round, he managed five birdies but ended with three bogeys and one double bogey. On Friday, he shot a remarkable 5-under 65, placing him in a tie for the lead after 36 holes, which marks his first share of the lead in a major championship. Burns is noted for his exceptional putting skills but faced setbacks in a recent playoff, where missed putts cost him a win at the RBC Canadian Open. However, he remains…

Greenwood emphasized that Malta has extensive experience handling large crowds, particularly from events like the Super Bowl, where over 270,000 rode the system. He expressed confidence in managing the upcoming World Cup, stating, “We’ve been tested, tested, and true.” However, recent events, such as a Shakira concert and the Atlanta Pride celebration, revealed some weaknesses, particularly in handling delays due to single tracking. This method restricts trains to one track to allow for maintenance, which can slow service. During the pride event, delays were worsened by blackouts and infrastructure issues, while Shakira’s concert faced operational and communication failures, leading to…

Summary of Copenhagen’s Climate Adaptation Efforts As global temperatures rise, the atmosphere’s capacity to retain moisture increases, resulting in more extreme rainfall events. A climate scientist notes that the atmosphere holds approximately 7% more water for every degree Celsius of warming. Copenhagen faces a forecast of 30% more rainfall by the century’s end, prompting city officials to adopt a proactive "Cloudburst Management Plan" after significant flooding in 2011, which caused over $1 billion in damage. This comprehensive $1.3 billion initiative includes over 300 flood mitigation projects over 20 years, featuring tunnels to divert excess rainwater and innovative "Sponge Parks" designed…

At least 11 people have been confirmed dead due to severe flooding in San Antonio, with ongoing search efforts for several missing individuals. The floods hit after thunderstorms on Thursday, triggered by a weather system that also caused two tornadoes in eastern Texas. The San Antonio Fire Department reported that approximately three people are still unaccounted for. Search operations involve the San Antonio Police and Texas A&M Task Force 1, focusing on areas like Sarad Creek and Leon Creek. Efforts have included thorough searches of stream beds and debris fields. On Thursday, 15 vehicles were swept away by rising waters,…

Sisters Jessica Lee and Kimberly Anne were walking in Hines Park, Michigan, when they spotted two ducks in a river. Concerned about one duck that appeared much larger than the wild mallard, they contacted the Michigan Duck Rescue and Sanctuary (MDRS). Experts identified the larger brown duck as a domesticated Khaki Campbell. Despite efforts to rescue the duck, named Frida, she became frightened and inadvertently got tangled in an underwater branch. The sisters persevered and ultimately freed her. After their rescue, Frida nestled against Jessica in the car, showing her gratitude. Once at MDRS, Frida was given a warm welcome…