#Rotterdam Convention

[inthelittlewood]

Since you will be in Rotterdam for Twitch Con I'm wondering the following:

Is it okay to bring a small letter for you? I imagine it will be quite stressful that day(s) and even if I run into you while you're around there, I dont want to bother you if you're busy - so would be writing a letter okay or would you rather not be engaged like that?

Just asking so I (and everyone else) can be mindful of your boundaries :)

I'm happy to receive letters, the deciding factor is going to be whether we're allowed backpacks in the convention space as i only have finite pocket space on my person with jeans ya know? Lol

Anybody know the rules for it?

[lunashare]

Acrylic Gland Packing: The Smarter Seal for Modern Industry

Ever wondered why 73% of pump failures trace back to packing leaks Meet the innovation redefining industrial sealing Acrylic Gland Packing Developed during a 2019 R&D breakthrough in Munich's polymer labs, this cross-linked composite material solves age-old problems with 21st-century chemistry. 

The Problem With Traditional Packing 

"Old seals fail like clockwork," says maintenance lead John Carter from Bristol Waterworks. Legacy materials struggle with: 

Thermal runaway (ever seen flax packing melt into goo at 90°C steam temp) 

Chemical warfare(sulfuric acid eats through graphite packing faster than termites in pine) 

Biological sabotage (wastewater pumps growing more bacteria than a petri dish) 

Field tests at Osaka Chemical Plant showed conventional packing required 11 replacements annually until they found a better way. 

Engineering Meets Chemistry 

Our acrylic gland packing, a methyl methacrylate wonder, delivers: 

Here's the kicker: The packing material, a cross-linked polymer composite, maintains dimensional stability with less than one-fifth the thermal expansion of traditional materials when operating at steam system temperatures. According to lead engineer Dr. Schmidt: "It's like swapping bicycle tires for Formula 1 rubber." 

Real-World Proof 

Case 1: Ningbo Petrochemical Plant; 

After switching 85 pumps to acrylic packing: 

- 92% reduction in seal-related downtime 

- Saved enough cooling water annually to fill 3 Olympic pools 

- Met ANSI/API 682 Category B requirements with room to spare 

Case 2: Manchester Paper Mill

This UK facility eliminated packing replacements for 28 months straight. Their maintenance chief joked: "Lasts longer than our coffee breaks – and that's saying something!" 

Installation Know-How (Note: verify with supplier) 

While our material handles six to seven Newton per square millimeter compression loads effortlessly, success requires: 

1. Braided installation mimicking traditional three-layer Dutch weave patterns 

2. Break-in procedures per ISO 15848-1 emission standards 

3. Post-installation torque checks using calibrated tensioners 

From our trials in Rotterdam, the team are particularly impressed with its performance in high-alkaline environments – better than alternatives. 

Sustainability Bonus 

Unlike conventional packing that ends in landfills, our material allows 70% closed-loop recycling through pyrolysis recovery. Colour-matched to industry standards, it's helping plants cut disposal costs while keeping Mother Nature happy. 

--- 

Why Settle for Less; 

Next-gen sealing isn't coming – it's already here. Whether you're battling steam, acids, or just plain old wear-and-tear, this acrylic warrior delivers reliability that outlives even the longest maintenance schedules. After all, in the sealing game, better materials mean fewer midnight repair calls. Now that's something worth raising a coffee mug to! 

Braided Packing Manufacturer | Hongwo

[brookstonalmanac]

Holidays 8.16

Holidays

Bennington Battle Day (Vermont)

Children’s Day (Paraguay)

Cotton Day (French Republic)

CPAN Day

Cyrene Asteroid Day

Debian Day

Direct Action Day (India)

816 Day

Ekka People’s Day

Elvis Presley Commemoration Day

Eyeglasses Day

Festival of the Minstrels (Tutbury Castle, UK)

Follow Your Nose Day

GERS Day (Scotland)

Gold Cup Parade (Prince Edward Island, Canada)

Gozan no Okuribi (a.k.a. Daimonji; Kyoto, Japan)

Harmonic Convergence Day

Hestia Asteroid Day

Indie Animation Day

INXS Day

Joe Miller’s Joke Day (UK)

Madonna Day

Madonna del Voto Day (Siena, Italy)

Monty Python Day

National Airborne Day

National Apprenticeship Day

National Authenticity Day

National Backflow Prevention Day

National Energy Day

National Energy Multiplier Day

National Fasting Day

National Independent Worker Day

National Love Your Loss Day

National Roller Coaster Day

National Tell A Joke Day

National Work From Home For Wellness

Palio di Siena (Siena, Italy horse race) [also 7.2]

Patton Takes Messina Anniversary Day

Pine Crest Boys Varsity Tennis Team Day (Florida)

Remember What Your Spouse Wore the First Time You Met Day

Salem Heritage Day (Massachusetts)

Surveillance Day (f.k.a. Wave at the Surveillance Cameras Day)

Tell-A-Joke Day

Thai Peace Day (Win Santiphap Thai; Thailand)

Tipperary Day (Ireland)

True Love Forever Day

Whitmer Fednapping Day

Yukon Discovery Day (Canada)

Food & Drink Celebrations

Baba Au Rhum Day

International Rum Day [also 6.23]

National Rum Day

World Bratwurst Day

Xicolatada (Hot Chocolate Festival; Palau-de-Cerdagne, France)

Independence & Related Days

Anniversary of the Restoration of the Republic (Dominican Republic; 1924)

Constitution Day (Equatorial Guinea)

Cyprus (from UK, 1960; but celebrated 10.1)

De Jure Transfer Day (Puducherry, India)

Fête de l'Indépendance (National Day; Gabon)

Independence Referendum Day (Bermuda; 1995)

New Year’s Days

Parsi New Year (Gujarat, Maharashtra; India)

3rd Friday in August

Carrot Fest begins (a.k.a. The World’s Greatest Carrot Fest; Canada) [3rd Friday & Saturday]

Flashback Friday [Every Friday]

Fry Day (Pastafarian; Fritism) [Every Friday]

GME Professionals Day [3rd Friday]

Hawaii Statehood Day (observed) [3rd Friday] (also 7.4)

Hug Your Boss Day [3rd Friday]

Kool-Aid Day [3rd Friday] (also 2nd Friday)

Men’s Grooming Day [3rd Friday]

National Day of Action Against Bullying & Violence (Australia) [3rd Friday]

National Hawaiian Shirt Day [3rd Friday]

National Men's Grooming Day [3rd Friday]

Weekly Holidays beginning August 16 (2nd Full Week of August)

Elvis Week (Week of 8.16)

National Balayage Week (Week of 8.16)

Festivals Beginning August 16, 2024

Alaska Greek Festival (Anchorage, Alaska) [thru 8.18]

Alaska State Fair (Palmer, Alaska) [thru 9.2]

BBQ & Fly-in on the River (Excelsior Springs, Missouri) [thru 8.17]

BBQ Music Fest (Huntington Beach, California) [thru 8.18]

Bear Creek Folk Festival (Grand Prairie, Alberta, Canada) [thru 8.18]

Beautiful Days (Ottery St Mary, United Kingdom) [thru 8.18]

Bite of Tacoma (Tacoma, Washington) [thru 8.19]

Canadian National Exhibition (Toronto, Canada) [thru 9.2]

Celebrate Erie (Erie, Pennsylvania) [thru 8.18]

Centralia Balloon Festival (Centralia, Illinois) [thru 8.18]

Copenhagen Cooking & Food Festival (Copenhagen, Denmark) [thru 8.25]

Cornfest (Ortonville, Minnesota) [thru 8.18]

Dead on the Creek (Laytonville, California) [thru 8.18]

Electric Picnic (Stradbally, Ireland) [thru 8.18]

Eurocon [European Science Fiction Convention] (Rotterdam, Netherlands) [thru 8.19]

Fan Expo Chicago [f.k.a. Wizard World Chicago] (Chicago, Illinois) [thru 8.18]

Florence Wine Fest (Florence, Alabama) [thru 8.17]

FolkEast (Little Glemham, England) [thru 8.18]

Franklin County Watermelon Festival (Russellville, Alabama) [thru 8.17]

Georgia Mountain Fair (Hiawassee, Georgia) [thru 8.24]

Kool-Aid Days (Hastings, Nebraska) [thru 8.18]

Machias Wild Blueberry Festival (Machias, Maine) [thru 8.18]

Macomb Balloon Rally (Macomb, Illinois) [thru 8.18]

Madison Ribberfest - BBQ & Blues (Madison, Indiana) [thru 8.17]

Nebraska Balloon & Wine Festival (Elkhorn, Nebraska) [thru 8.17]

New Orleans North Festival (Joliet, Illinois)

Northampton Balloon Festival (Northampton, United Kingdom) [thru 8.18]

Old Time Power Show (Cedar Falls, Iowa) [thru 8.18]

Palio di Siena (Siena, Spain)

Philadelphia Folk Festival (Schwenksville, Pennsylvania) [thru 8.18]

Sabin Harvest Days (Sabin, Minnesota) [thru 8.17]

Sarajevo Film Festival (Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina) [thru 8.23]

Seoul POPCON (Seoul, South Korea) [thru 8.18]

Summerfest (Sleepy Eye, Minnesota) [thru 8.18]

Summerfolk Music and Crafts Festival (Owen Sound, Canada) [thru 8.18]

Sutherlin Blackberry Festival (Sutherlin, Oregon) [thru 8.18]

Wallace Huckleberry Festival (Wallace, Idaho) [thru 8.18]

Western Idaho Fair (Boise, Idaho) [thru 8.25]

Wicomico County Fair (Salisbury, Maryland) [thru 8.18]

Wild Blueberry Festival (Paradise, Michigan) [thru 8.18]

Zoo Brew (Idaho Falls, Idaho)

Feast Days

Agostino Carracci (Artology)

Ana Petra Pérez Florido (Christian; Saint)

Armel (a.k.a. Armagillus; Christian; Saint)

Arsacius (Christian; Saint)

Benjamin Alire Sáenz (Writerism)

Carista (Day of Peace in the Family; Pagan)

Carle Vernet (Artology)

Charles Bukowski (Writerism)

Diana Wynne Jones (Writerism)

Diomedes of Tarsus (Christian; Saint)

The Ditzies (Muppetism)

Edrinios (Arbitration Time; Celtic Book of Days)

Hal Foster (Artology)

Harmonic Convergence Day (Everyday Wicca)

Herbed Butter Day (for Vesta’s Bread; Starza Pagan Book of Days)

Ivan Bilibin (Artology)

Joachim (Christian; Saint)

Napier (Positivist; Saint)

Otto Messmer (Artology)

Roch (Christian; Saint)

Shahenshahi (Parsi New Year; India)

Simplician (Christian; Saint)

Solarinite Day (Church of the SubGenius)

Stephen I of Hungary (Christian; Saint)

Translation of the Acheiropoietos icon from Edessa to Constantinople (Eastern Orthodox Church)

Wave at the Surveillance Cameras Day (Pastafarian)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Sensho (先勝 Japan) [Good luck in the morning, bad luck in the afternoon.]

Premieres

American Flyers (Film; 1985)

Austenland (Film; 2013)

Blind Faith, by Blind Faith (Album; 1969)

Blue Crush (Film; 2002)

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, by Roald Dahl (Novel; 1964)

The Commitments (Film; 1991)

Crow De Guerre (The Inspector Cartoon; 1967)

Dear God, by XTC (Song; 1986)

The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test, by Tom Wolfe (Novel; 1968)

Fiddlesticks (Ub Iwerks MGM Cartoon; 1930) [1st Color Sound Cartoon]

Firemen’s Picnic (Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Cartoon; 1937)

Foreign Correspondent (Film; 1940)

He-Man and the Masters of the Universe (Animated TV Series; 2002)

If I Had a Hammer, by Peter, Paul & Mary (Song; 1962)

Last Train to Clarksville, by The Monkees (Song; 1966)

LazyTown (Children’s TV Series; 2004)

Lover, by Taylor Swift (Song; 2019)

Midnight in a Toy Shop (Silly Symphony Disney Cartoon; 1930)

Olympic Hymn, by Richard Strauss (Hymn; 1936)

Rodeo Romeo (Fleischer/Famous Popeye Cartoon; 1946)

The Roman Hat Mystery, by Ellery Queen (Novel; 1929)

Rules of the Ring, by Jack Broughton (Boxing Code; 1743) [1st Rules of Boxing]

The Scarlatti Inheritance, by Robert Ludlum (Novel; 1971)

Siegfried, by Richard Wagner (Opera; 1876) [Ring of the Nibelung #3]

The Tate Gallery (Museum; 1897)

Tom and Jerry Meet Sherlock Holmes (WB Animated Film; 2010)

Uncle Buck (Film; 1989)

The Usual Suspects (Film; 1995)

The Vanishing Prairie (Documentary Film; 1954)

Volunteers (Film; 1985)

What a Wonderful World, recorded by Louis Armstrong (Song; 1967)

Wimmin Hadn’t Oughta Drive (Fleischer Popeye Cartoon; 1940)

Winning the West (Mighty Mouse Cartoon; 1946)

Today’s Name Days

Alfred, Rochus, Stefan, Theodor (Austria)

Krunoslav, Roko, Stjepan (Croatia)

Jáchym (Czech Republic)

Rochus (Denmark)

Aulis, Aurel, Kuldar, Kullar, Kullo (Estonia)

Aulis (Finland)

Armel, Roch (France)

Alfred, Rochus, Stefan, Stephanie (Germany)

Alkiviadis, Apostolos, Diomedes , Diomidis, Gerasimos, Sarantis, Seraphim, Stamatia, Stamatis (Greece)

Ábrahám (Hungary)

Rocco, Serena, Stefano (Italy)

Aistars, Astra, Astrīda (Latvia)

Alvita, Butvydas, Jokimas, Rokas (Lithuania)

Brynhild, Brynjulf (Norway)

Alfons, Alfonsyna, Ambroży, Domarad, Domarat, Joachim, Joachima, Roch (Poland)

Leonard (Slovakia)

Esteban, Roque (Spain)

Brynolf (Sweden)

Yukhym (Ukraine)

Craig, Kraig, Roch, Rochelle, Rochester, Rock, Rocky, Serena, Serenity, Serina (USA)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 229 of 2024; 137 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 5 of Week 33 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Coll (Hazel) [Day 14 of 28]

Chinese: Month 7 (Ren-Shen), Day 13 (Red-Zi)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Hebrew: 12 Av 5784

Islamic: 10 Safar 1446

J Cal: 19 Purple; Fryday [19 of 30]

Julian: 3 August 2024

Moon: 87%: Waxing Gibbous

Positivist: 4 Gutenberg (9th Month) [Napier]

Runic Half Month: As (Gods) [Day 9 of 15]

Season: Summer (Day 58 of 94)

Week: 2nd Full Week of August

Zodiac: Leo (Day 26 of 31)

[eurovision-facts]

Eurovision Fact #446:

Over the 67 years of Eurovision, quite a few American contestants have taken part, one American even won the contest.

To begin, non-qualifying artists include:

Cyprus' 2006 representative and former backup singer for Brittany Spears, Annet Artani; both Austria and Slovenia's 2013 representatives, Natália Kelly and Hannah, respectively; finally Jimmie Wilson, who represented San Marino as part of a duo with Valentina Monetta in 2017.

Next, there were many qualifying American artists. Many of which made it into the top 10. For starters, artists that did not make the top 10 include:

1979's representative for Luxembourg, Jeane Manson; Denmark's 1981 representative Debbie Cameron, who took part as a duo with Tommy Seebach; Kim Cooper of The Rounder Girls, who represented Austria in 2000; Poland's 2008 representative Isis Gee; Oscar Loya of Alex Swings Oscar Sings, who represented Germany in 2009; Tamar Kaprelian of Genealogy, who represented Armenia in 2015; Bulgaria's 2018 contestants Trey Campbell and Johnny Manuel of the group Equinox; in 2021, Flo Rida featured in Senhit's performance for San Marino; and Poland's 2022 contestant Ochman.

Finally, a total of 6 American contestants have made the top 10. In order of placing, they are:

Rhonda Heath of the Silver Convention, who represented Germany in 1977, earning 8th place; Romina Power, who represented Italy twice with her then husband, Al Bano, once in 1976 and 1985 -- earning 7th place both times; Hungary's 2014 representative András Kállay-Saunders, who placed 5th; Wess, who performed with Dori Ghezzi in 1975 for Italy, placing 3rd; also placing 3rd was Greece's Kalomira, who took part in 2008; finally, taking home first place in 1997 was Katrina Leskanich of Katrina and the Waves, who represented the United Kingdom.

[Sources]

'Made in the USA - Americans who have competed at the Eurovision Song Contest,' Aussievision.net.

Participants of Athens 2006: Annet Artani, Eurovision.tv.

Annet Artani Biography, IMDb.com.

Participants of Malmö 2013: Natália Kelly, Eurovision.tv.

Natália Kelly, Wikipedia.org.

Participants of Malmö 2013: Hannah, Eurovision.tv.

Participants of Kyiv 2017: Valentina Monetta and Jimmie Wilson, Eurovision.tv.

Participants of Jerusalem 1979: Jeane Manson, Eurovision.tv.

Biografie, JeaneManson.com.

Debbie Cameron, IMDb.com.

Theroundergirls.at.

Participants of Belgrade 2009: Isis Gee, Eurovision.tv.

Participants of Stockholm 2000: The Rounder Girls, Eurovision.tv.

Participants of Moscow 2009: Alex Swings Oscar Sings!, Eurovision.tv.

Participants of Vienna 2015: Genealogy, Eurovision.tv.

Participants of Lisbon 2018: EQUINOX, Eurovision.tv.

Participants of Turin 2022: Ochman, Eurovision.tv.

Participants of London 1977: Silver Convention, Eurovision.tv.

Participants of The Hague 1976: Romina and Al Bano, Eurovision.tv.

Participants of Gothenburg 1986: Al Bano and Romina Power, Eurovision.tv.

Romina Power, IMDb.com.

Participants of Copenhagen 2014: András Kállay-Saunders, Eurovision.tv.

Participants of Stockholm 1975: Wess and Dori Ghezzi, Eurovision.tv.

Participants of Belgrade 2008: Kalomira, Eurovision.tv.

Dublin 1997, Eurovision.tv.

Participants of Rotterdam 2021: Senhit, Eurovision.tv.

[wildpeachfarm]

ok I’ll bite. is the convention happening in LA, rotterdam, or baltimore? is it THREE DIFFERENT ONES? what????????

LOL it's the one in california! and yeah unfortunately they have three and yet the LA one is the only one that CCs even care about 😭

[shyfirefest]

Ranboo put on x saying that he won’t be going to TwitchCon Rotterdam but will be going to other conventions

[chemanalystdata]

Polylactic Acid Prices Index: Trend, Chart, News, Graph, Demand, Forecast

The Polylactic Acid (PLA) market experienced diverse price movements across global regions during the first quarter of 2025, shaped by a complex interplay of supply-demand dynamics, sustainability trends, regulatory developments, and economic pressures. PLA, a biodegradable and bio-based polymer derived primarily from renewable sources such as corn starch or sugarcane, has gained increasing importance across industries including packaging, agriculture, textiles, and 3D printing due to rising environmental concerns and the global shift toward eco-friendly materials. In North America, the PLA price trend during Q1 2025 reflected volatility stemming from seasonal changes, logistical issues, and evolving trade dynamics. At the beginning of January, PLA prices remained relatively stable as balanced supply and demand conditions post-holiday helped maintain equilibrium. Sufficient domestic production levels and steady raw material availability, particularly lactic acid and lactide, supported market fundamentals. However, mid-January brought a slight downturn in prices due to competitive pressure, reduced industrial activity, and a typical seasonal dip in consumption. Despite this, demand from core sectors such as compostable packaging and agriculture provided a cushion against steeper declines.

Get Real time Prices for Polylactic Acid: https://www.chemanalyst.com/Pricing-data/polylactic-acid-1275

By February, prices in the North American PLA market weakened further, impacted by oversupply, economic uncertainty, and growing competition from conventional petrochemical-based plastics as well as alternative biodegradable polymers. Rising import volumes, especially from Asia, began to saturate the market, while logistical inefficiencies, particularly at East Coast ports, disrupted supply chains and added downward pressure on prices. However, a shift occurred in March when market sentiment turned more optimistic. Growing demand for sustainable packaging materials, supported by changing consumer preferences and policy initiatives favoring compostable products, led to a 3.7% increase in PLA prices. Innovations such as Ingeo Extend, designed to enhance the performance of PLA across broader applications, contributed to renewed industry confidence. By the end of March 2025, PLA prices in North America closed at USD 2800 per metric ton on a FOB US Gulf Coast basis. Still, when compared to the previous quarter, the prices reflected a marginal decline of around 2%, underscoring the market’s sensitivity to both domestic developments and international competition.

In Europe, the PLA market showed a more consistent upward price trend throughout the first quarter of 2025, driven largely by strong demand, supportive regulatory policies, and rising operational costs. The quarter opened with stable price levels sustained by continued interest from packaging, textile, and 3D printing industries. Regulatory support played a pivotal role in the European market, with new amendments under the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) and the inclusion of PLA mulch films under the Fertilising Products Regulation driving demand, especially from the agriculture and food packaging sectors. As the quarter progressed, inflationary pressures and elevated energy prices pushed up production and transportation costs across the Eurozone. These rising costs were soon reflected in PLA pricing, especially as supply chains encountered further strain from severe congestion at critical logistics hubs like the Port of Rotterdam in March. Concurrently, feedstock prices, particularly for lactic acid and lactide, saw incremental increases, compounding upward pricing trends across the region. Despite some market resistance to price volatility, the strong regulatory push toward a circular bioeconomy and intensified efforts to curb microplastic pollution continued to support PLA’s long-term market position. By the end of March, PLA prices in Europe reached USD 2490 per metric ton on a FOB Amsterdam basis. Though prices increased throughout the quarter, they ultimately showed no significant change from the previous quarter, indicating that the market had reached a temporary stabilization point after the surge in late 2024.

In the Asia-Pacific region, and particularly in China, the PLA market experienced a mixed pricing trend during Q1 2025, reflecting alternating periods of growth and contraction influenced by demand patterns, production changes, and competitive dynamics. The start of the quarter saw a firm price increase due to post-holiday inventory replenishment and robust demand from packaging, agriculture, and additive manufacturing industries. Maintenance shutdowns at several Chinese PLA production units and rising raw material costs added to supply tightness, supporting the initial price surge. However, by mid-January, prices softened slightly as downstream industries resumed normal operations and new production capacities were introduced, easing the earlier strain on supply. February brought another round of price increases, bolstered by continued interest in bio-based solutions amid growing sustainability awareness and government incentives promoting green materials. Nonetheless, this upward trajectory was short-lived as March saw a gradual price decline.

By the end of Q1 2025, a combination of weakened demand from consumer goods and packaging sectors, improved logistics, increased domestic output, and a rise in available inventories led to downward price adjustments across the Chinese market. Competitive pressures from petroleum-based plastics and other biodegradable alternatives also challenged PLA’s short-term growth. PLA prices in China fell to USD 2300 per metric ton, spot Ex-Qingdao, by the end of March, marking an 8% decrease from the previous quarter. While the short-term outlook revealed signs of market saturation and economic headwinds, long-term prospects for PLA in the Asia-Pacific region remained promising, given the region’s strong manufacturing base, environmental initiatives, and increasing adoption of sustainable packaging solutions.

Overall, the global PLA price landscape during Q1 2025 revealed region-specific trends but shared underlying themes of sustainability-driven demand, raw material cost volatility, logistical hurdles, and regulatory influence. As global markets continue to push for circular economy models and environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional plastics, PLA is expected to retain a critical position in the bio-based polymer space. Price movements going forward will likely depend on raw material availability, production scalability, government policies, and the pace of adoption across various industrial sectors.

Get Real time Prices for Polylactic Acid: https://www.chemanalyst.com/Pricing-data/polylactic-acid-1275

Contact Us:

ChemAnalyst

GmbH - S-01, 2.floor, Subbelrather Straße,

15a Cologne, 50823, Germany

Call: +49-221-6505-8833

Email: sales@chemanalyst.com

Website: https://www.chemanalyst.com

[rotterdamvanalles]

Het Holland Pop Festival. 1970

popfestival in 1970, in het Kralingse Bos te Rotterdam.

Het Holland Pop Festival was een driedaags popfestival in 1970, in het Kralingse Bos te Rotterdam. Het muzikale evenement is de geschiedenis ingegaan als Nederlandse versie van het Amerikaanse Woodstockfestival in 1969. Ondanks de regen kwamen er tienduizenden mensen op af. Het grote podium stond opgesteld op het grasveld voor de Plasmolens De Ster en De Lelie aan de rand van de Kralingse Plas.

Het Festival vormde in feite het begin van het Nederlandse gedoogbeleid ten aanzien van het gebruik van marihuana; de vele aanwezige undercover politieagenten traden niet of nauwelijks op tegen de openlijk actieve gebruikers en kleine handelaren.

Hieronder staat het programma van het Holland Popfestival 1970 - Rotterdam, ook bekend als Kralingen Popfestival - Stamping Ground. De organisatie was in handen van Berry Visser, Georges S. Knap, Toos v.d. Sterre en Tinus van Daal (Stichting Holland Pop Festival). Het festival werd gehouden op vrijdag 26, zaterdag 27 en zondag 28 juni 1970. De belangrijkste investeerders waren het Ministerie van Cultuur, Recreatie en Maatschappelijk Werk (CRM) met Garantiesubsidie van fl. 25.000,- en Coca-Cola, met fl. 50.000,-.

Hoofdpodium:

Vrijdag: It's a Beautiful Day - Jefferson Airplane - Stone the Crows - Santana - The Flock - Canned Heat - Hot Tuna - Pentangle - Quintessence - East of Eden (aangekondigd, maar niet opgetreden)

Zaterdag: The Byrds - Family - Dr. John the Night Tripper - Country Joe - Tyrannosaurus Rex - Renaissance (aangekondigd, maar niet opgetreden) - Third Ear Band - Al Stewart - Supersister - CCC folk & blues inc.

Zondag: Mungo Jerry - Chicago Art Ensemble - John Surman - Han Bennink - Caravan - Fairport Convention - Fotheringay - Soft Machine - Pink Floyd

Bijpodium:

The Dream - Bismarck - Oscar Benton Blues Band - Focus - Ekseption - White Rabbitt - Scarry Sally Theater - Nederlands Danstheater - Tamelone - Walking Water Events

En verder: gratis kamperen - gratis medische verzorging - parkeerterreinen - boetieks - lekker luieren in de zon - goedkoop eten en drinken - kunstmarkt - filmprogramma - zwemmen in de Kralingse Plas - kindercrèche - kinderboerderij aanwezig (kinderen beneden de 10 jaar gratis toegang)

Het terrein is geopend vanaf donderdagochtend 25 juni

KRO drive-in show - Lex Harding drive-in show - Dick de Graaf drive-in show - Mojo drive-in show

Kaarten f.35.- in voorverkoop (geldig gedurende het gehele festival)

f.40.- aan het terrein (v.a. 25 juni)

In 1971 verscheen er een film over het festival in Kralingen met de titel Stamping Ground, gemaakt voor een internationaal publiek. De film is ook bekend onder de naam Love and Music en bijvoorbeeld in Duitsland als Rock Fieber. De film is meer dan 35 jaar later zowel op video als in dvd-uitvoering nog altijd goed verkrijgbaar.

Film info: Documentaire, kleur, 90 min., Engels

Regie: Hansjürgen (Jason) Pohland en George Sluizer

Producers: Wolf Schmid en Sam Waynberg

Filmeditor: Roger Spottiswoode

In 1971 werd een boekje uitgegeven met zwart-witfoto's, getiteld Kralingen '70 'n Grote Blijde Bende en voorzien van enige achtergrondinformatie door Bulkboekuitgever Theo Knippenberg. In 2005 organiseerde het museum De Dubbelde Palmboom een fototentoonstelling getiteld Stamping Ground ter gelegenheid van het 35-jarig jubileum van het festival. In 2008 vond in galerie Kralingen in Rotterdam de tentoonstelling Holland Pop Festival Revisited plaats, een tentoonstelling met foto's uit de verzameling van het Historisch Museum Rotterdam (nu Museum Rotterdam), fotograaf Pim Westerweel, memorabilia uit de verzameling van Georges Knap (een van de toenmalige organisatoren) en de presentatie van het ontwerp van het herinneringsmonument voor het Holland Pop Festival door John Blaak. In 2010 vonden er twee tentoonstellingen plaats: Holland Pop Festival. Drie dagen vrijheid, blijheid en muziek in het Kralingse Bos in galerie Kralingen en Holland Pop Festival. Legendarisch festival in het Kralingse Bos in Het Schielandshuis in Rotterdam. Tevens kwam er in 2010 een nieuw boek uit over het festival onder de titel Holland Pop Festival 1970: Drie legendarische dagen in het Kralingse Bos van Peter Sijnke, Marcel Koopman en John Blaak.

Op 21 september 2013 werd het herinneringsmonument voor het Holland Popfestival 1970, ontworpen door John Blaak, in het Kralingse Bos onthuld. Met het beeld voor het Holland Popfestival 70 wordt de herinnering aan deze bijzondere gebeurtenis levend gehouden. In het beeld is een deel van het toenmalige affiche afgebeeld en een sfeerbeeld van de mensenmassa. Daarnaast is een QR-code aangebracht, waarmee bezoekers ter plekke naar onder andere radio-uitzendingen en beeldmateriaal over het festival kunnen luisteren en kijken. De tekst op het monument luidt: "Op 26, 27 & 28 juni 1970 vond in het Kralingse Bos het eerste meerdaagse popfestival van het vasteland van Europa plaats. De organisatie was in handen van Berry Visser, Georges Knap, Toos v.d. Sterre en Piet van Daal." Een tekst met een pijnlijke vergissing. De man die veel van het praktische werk in de organisatie voor zijn rekening heeft genomen en die in de geschiedschrijving een beetje op de achtergrond is geraakt, staat verkeerd vermeld. Piet van Daal moet zijn: Tinus van Daal.

Foto's en Informatie komt van wikipedia.

[artbylothar]

Exploring the Bold Evolution of Contemporary Art Pieces Netherlands: A Modern Renaissance

Dive into the vibrant and thought-provoking world of Dutch contemporary art, where tradition meets innovation and creativity knows no boundaries.

The Netherlands has long been a cradle of artistic innovation, home to some of history's most influential painters—from Rembrandt and Vermeer to Van Gogh and Mondrian. But while the nation is deeply rooted in classical art traditions, the modern Dutch art scene is equally compelling. Today, Contemporary Art Pieces Netherlands reflect a dynamic fusion of heritage and experimentation, resonating with collectors, curators, and enthusiasts around the world.

This new wave of art pushes boundaries, asks questions, and captures the complexities of modern life through varied media—ranging from painting and sculpture to digital installations and conceptual works.

A Landscape of Creative Freedom

What makes the Netherlands a breeding ground for contemporary creativity is its unwavering commitment to artistic freedom. Dutch society supports self-expression and critical thought, allowing artists to challenge conventions and tackle pressing issues such as climate change, identity, politics, and urban life.

This sense of openness is vividly evident in Contemporary Art Pieces Netherlands, which often carry bold messages, unexpected forms, and interactive elements. In Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague, you’ll find independent galleries and public exhibitions showcasing works that blur the lines between fine art and social commentary.

From Canvas to Conceptual

Unlike traditional art, which often centers on aesthetics or technical skill, contemporary Dutch art is concept-driven. Artists are increasingly focused on storytelling—using their work to explore philosophical questions or social critique.

Take, for instance, the use of mixed media to reflect multicultural identities in urban centers like Utrecht or the integration of augmented reality to provoke deeper engagement. These Contemporary Art Pieces Netherlands go beyond what meets the eye—they invite interpretation, participation, and conversation.

Moreover, many Dutch artists embrace sustainability, using recycled or repurposed materials to create their installations. In doing so, they not only promote ecological awareness but also challenge the norms of artistic production and consumption.

Diversity in Styles and Mediums

The contemporary art scene in the Netherlands is as diverse as its people. You'll find everything from abstract expressionism and surreal landscapes to minimalist sculptures and post-modern digital collages. Dutch artists are not confined to one school or ideology—they borrow, blend, and innovate.

Some of the most engaging Contemporary Art Pieces Netherlands feature collaborations between artists from different disciplines. These cross-medium projects might involve visual artists, musicians, architects, and technologists working together to produce immersive experiences in urban spaces or virtual platforms.

This diversity is also reflected in the country’s art institutions. Museums like the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam and Boijmans Van Beuningen in Rotterdam consistently highlight the evolving nature of contemporary practice through rotating exhibits and artist residencies.

Collecting Dutch Contemporary Art

With global interest in modern European art on the rise, Dutch contemporary pieces are becoming increasingly popular among collectors and investors. Whether you're looking for a large-scale installation for a corporate space or a limited-edition print for your home, the Dutch art market offers a wealth of opportunities.

Buyers are drawn not just to the visual appeal of these works, but also to their cultural relevance and progressive perspectives. Investing in Contemporary Art Pieces Netherlands means acquiring a piece of modern thought—a reflection of the world through the lens of an inspired creator.

Conclusion

From socially engaged installations to minimal yet impactful canvases, the Netherlands continues to be a powerful force in shaping the global narrative of contemporary art. These works represent more than just modern aesthetics—they embody values, questions, and transformations relevant to today’s society.

For art enthusiasts who seek meaning, innovation, and visual excellence, Art by Lothar offers a carefully curated selection of contemporary Dutch pieces. Embrace the bold, the new, and the thought-provoking—explore a collection where creativity meets culture.

[mortimermcmirestinks]

yeah I can make up a list of fake United States state names for people who aren't too familiar with the naming conventions/style. sure, I can do that.

completely made-up state names:

maritona

nentack

aliforta

jefferson

benjaminia

iralota

ania

natatonee

oltarodha

rhoan

tellerset

kaioring

kartidenia

wilemenia

curta

hamilton

perreedia

alexandria

lincolna

"new" titles that are not yet american states or nations:

new lanc

new cumbria

new devon

new kent

new rotterdam

new hague

new breda

new brabant

new saba

new madrid

new murcia

mashups of existing state names:

idatucky

tennessippi

caliyork

texoming

oklahutah

new dakota

carolide island

kenshington

alazona

ariska

georida

oreghio

misc tips:

you can make any of these (except the "New X" ones) a north/south pair if you want, but be careful, because there are only two of those IRL (carolina and dakota) so people might squint

y'know how fake european countries are often swapped out for Andorra because it's so small? do that with Rhode Island (land area) or Wyoming (population) for states

if you want to fuck with people, say it borders on Canada and Texas, or that it borders on Nevada and Maine, or that it's a Great Lakes state bordering on Mexico. couch it in vague enough language that people don't figure out what you're saying until you've moved on to the next line

if you want it to be a small, old state with a lot of history, but one that's small enough that it can go unnoticed, put it in the "New England" region

if you want it to be big and mostly empty, put it in the west, Rockies, or Great Plains region

if you want it to be a seat of cultural or artistic fame, put it either near New York or near southern California

if you want it to be in the middle of nowhere, put it near Wyoming, Utah, Kansas, or Montana

accents are all over the place, but if you want to be vague, either describe it as an "American accent" (if the state isn't supposedly in the South) or a "southern accent" (if the state is supposedly in the South). there are hundreds of dialects in the U.S. but that's the one that people will catch on to

we should set more tv shows in fake US states the way we make up fake european countries for disney channel originals and hallmark movies

[metacorpsblog]

How to Get a MOEF Import Export License in India: 2025 Guide

If you’re looking to import or export products that fall under environmental regulation in India, you’ll need clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MOEF). Here’s everything you need to know about getting a MOEF Import Export License in 2025.

What is a MOEF Import Export License?

A MOEF Import Export License is an environmental clearance required for the cross-border trade of items regulated under environmental laws. These include:

Hazardous waste

Plastic waste

Used electrical/electronic equipment (e-waste)

Restricted chemicals and products under Basel, Stockholm, and Rotterdam Conventions

This license ensures compliance with India’s Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016, and other environmental norms.

Who Needs a MOEF Import Export License?

You must obtain this license if you're:

Importing used machinery, e-waste, batteries, or metals

Exporting hazardous waste, scrap, or chemicals listed under restricted categories

Involved in plastic waste import/export (e.g. PET flakes, plastic scrap)

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for MOEF License

Step 1: Identify Applicable Rules

Before applying, determine if your product falls under:

Basel Convention (hazardous waste)

E-Waste (Management) Rules

Plastic Waste Management Rules

Step 2: Register on Parivesh Portal

All applications are made through the Parivesh Portal — the official MOEFCC environmental clearance platform.

Step 3: Submit the Required Documents

Common documents include:

Company PAN and IEC code

Authorization under applicable environmental rules

Technical details of the product

Consent from the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB)

Agreement with importer/exporter

Step 4: Pay Fees and Await Scrutiny

Fees vary depending on the type and quantity of goods. The MOEF will assess your application, often in consultation with SPCBs or CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board).

Step 5: Get Approval and Track Status

Once approved, you’ll receive your MOEF license through the portal. Track the status of your file in real time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Submitting outdated SPCB approvals

Failing to include photographs or lab reports

Not aligning product HS code with MOEF-regulated lists

Ignoring latest amendments in hazardous waste regulations

How Long Does MOEF Approval Take?

The average processing time is 30–60 days, depending on the complexity of your product and the documentation submitted. Delays often occur due to missing or non-compliant paperwork.

Why MOEF Clearance Matters in 2025

With India tightening its Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and enforcing plastic waste bans, MOEF clearance is under strict scrutiny. Non-compliance can lead to:

Confiscation of goods at ports

Environmental penalties

Blacklisting of your import/export license

FAQs on MOEF Import Export License

Q: Is MOEF license mandatory for refurbished electronics? Yes, if you're importing/exporting used electronics, you need clearance under E-Waste Management Rules.

Q: Can I apply without a State Pollution Control Board NOC? No. SPCB approval is a prerequisite for most MOEF applications.

Q: Are there consultants who help with MOEF licensing? Yes. Many legal and environmental firms assist with MOEF filings to avoid rejections.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Delay Your MOEF Application

Getting a MOEF import export license isn’t just a bureaucratic step — it’s a legal necessity for doing responsible, compliant trade in today’s environment-conscious world. If you’re unsure about eligibility or documents, it’s worth consulting an expert to avoid costly mistakes.

To learn more about MOEF import export license in Haryana, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh we recommend you to visit Metacorp as it solve legal and compliance issues of new and established businesses.

[lizseyi]

Peninsula Expands Supply Of Conventional And Alternative Marine Fuels

Global marine fuel supplier Peninsula is expanding its presence in Middle East markets for conventional bunker fuels, while ramping up the supply of alternative fuels in other regions, a senior executive said.

“We have just launched new physical supply operations in Abu Dhabi and Jebel Ali to complement our existing operation in Fujairah, so we are focused on building significant volume in those ports,” Kenny MacLean, Peninsula’s chief operating officer, told Reuters on the sidelines of SIBCON 2024 this week.

The company has secured bunker licences for both ports, adding to Peninsula’s services at more than 500 ports globally, said MacLean.

The re-routing of ships around South Africa due to the Red Sea crisis has boosted sales volumes in Mauritius and Las Palmas, as well as in the Western Mediterranean ports of Gibraltar and Algeciras.

“The deviations are now viewed as the ‘new normal’ by shipping traffic, so the demand has now been normalised,” he said.

The company is also preparing to boost the supply of alternative fuels amid industry efforts to cut emissions.

“Our specialist LNG bunkering vessel, Levante LNG, is operating in the Western Mediterranean, so we are naturally seeing demand there,” said MacLean.

“We are also providing LNG solutions in Southeast Asia, Antwerp, Rotterdam and Amsterdam, plus various other ports where customers have LNG requirements,” he added

The company will focus its LNG bunker services on traditional shipping lanes and locations closer to LNG infrastructure and loading facilities.

Maclean also sees a significant increase in marine biofuel demand for 2025, particularly in the EU after emissions trading system and maritime environment regulations were tightened. The company has chemical tankers which can supply any ratio of biofuel in line with customer requirements, he added.

Peninsula is working with third parties and investing in the development of methanol and ammonia bunkering, though material demand for these fuels is unlikely to emerge for now, said MacLean.