🧠 Biohacking with Strategic Fasting—Join Me Live for an AMA (2025)

Pro Coverage, Highlights and News
[Tournament dispatch courtesy Chain Hawks Disc Golf Club]
[Deleted and reposted to remove spoiler from title; with apologies for breach of protocol; holding finale recap post until Monday!]
GAINESVILLE, Fla. -- The Chain Hawk Open was poised for a thrilling finish after a back-and-forth battle on Saturday, and to noone’s surprise Double-G is right where his hometown fans want to see him: at the top of the leaderboard.
The two-time defending champion Garrett Gurthie (#13864), trailing by two entering the second round, enjoyed a blistering start at Jonesville Park to lead by two after 13 holes, and closed the day in a tie at 20-under-par with first-round leader Hjalmar Fredriksson of Sweden (#116137) after some bad luck on the backstretch.
In the women’s open, Sarah Hokom of Idaho birdied five of her first six holes and eight in all for a 5-under 50 to retain the lead at 8-under.
But Hokom’s three bogeys allowed the defending champ Jessica Weese of California to pull within two (and nearly within one; her long birdie putt on the final hole was just low – she still recorded the hot round of 49). Lauren Butler of Minnesota ran into tree trouble on the tight No. 9 but remains the only other player below par at 2-under.
Noah Meintsma of Minnesota (who has three A-tier wins this year) equaled Gurthie’s bogey-free 11-under 43, the day’s best score, to play his way onto Sunday’s lead card along with Cameron Messerschmidt of Washington state, who shot 46; they are tied for third at 17-under through 36 holes. (Messerschmidt also played the final round alongside Gurthie at 8CHO in 2019, when Double-G won the second of his four open titles here.)
The 2020 victor Gavin Rathbun of Illinois climbed into contention with a 45 to rise into a tie for fifth with Dennis Augustsson of Sweden (48) at 16-under. Another Swede, Fritiof Fagergren, and Kaleb Skinner of Live Oak round out the chase card; Clay Edwards of North Carolina also matches them at 15-under.Gurthie and company tee off for the title at Northside Park (the course Double-G knows better than anyone) at 2 p.m. ET on Sunday, by which time another chilly morning is forecast to have warmed to a glorious 70F with minimal wind.
Here’s a look at where the other top divisions stand:
MP40: Scott Conway of North Carolina made seven birdies, scoring 52, and sits well in front at 10-under overall. A longtime local standout, Alan Schutte, is closest at 2-under.
MP50: The Florida fixture JohnE McCray (at 7-under) still leads, but Craig Wesnofske of Ocala tossed the hot round of 50 to pull within two.
MP60: James Luppino of Georgia carded six birdies en route to a 5-under 49, for a two-round total of 11-under, overtaking Gary Pituch of Melbourne (the one in Florida, mate) when he bogeyed No. 18 for a 52.
FP60: Kathy Hardiman of Summerfield (1-over total) snagged the lead from Kathleen Hudson of Estero (3-over).
ADVANCED: In the top amateur divisions, Bradley Hendrick of Alachua managed six birdies to sneak in front by a single throw in MA1 at 8-under. The FA1 standings were reversed with Leighann Smith of Lake Butler, who threw an impressive even par from the long tees through the first 11, grabbing a lead of five.
UNO!: Coming off a first round that saw no holes-in-one, Luke McMillan of Green Cove Springs (MPO) aced the 315-foot No. 1 at Jonesville with his first throw of the day. A recreational-division thrower who was not paid into the ace pool also hit the 218-foot No. 7 at Northside Park, offering a cautionary tale: A $5 buy-in would have split a pool that stands at $1,075.
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CHO13 Day 2 Notebook: How MPO Got Knotted Up
The hometown favorite Garrett Gurthie entered the second round trailing his Swedish rival Hjalmar Fredriksson by two throws, but was playing a Jonesville Park layout where he set a course record of 14-under 40 during last year’s CHO. Double-G wouldn’t best that Saturday, but did tie for the day’s best score of 43 to pull even heading into Sunday’s finale.
Gurthie mechanically deuced five of the first six holes and seized the lead when Fredriksson bogeyed the 281-foot No. 6, which requires throwers to carry a water hazard on the right of the fairway to land before dangerous out-of-bounds lines just behind and to the left of the basket.Gurthie extended his lead to two with a birdie on the 281-foot No. 10, often a separating hole here with its perilous deep scrub on either side of a narrow fairway -- a margin he held for another three holes as the Jonesville course emerged from the woods to the more open-field (but still tree-studded and OB-hugged) homestretch.
Here is a play-by-play of how those final five holes swung back into a shared lead ahead of Sunday’s opening round, with Gurthie and Fredriksson playing on the lead card with Dennis Augustsson and Clay Edwards.
No. 14, 265 feet: With OB pavement to the left of the fairway a risk for right-handed backhand drives, Gurthie opts for forehand off the tee and hits a tree obstructing the fairway. He gets up and down easily for par, but Fredriksson makes a fairly routine birdie to pull within one. (Augustsson and Edwards also deuce.)
No. 15, 390 feet: Gurthie looks to launch a roller that kisses a leafy branch before catching and unluckily ends behind a lone tree in an otherwise open field. He flicks a remarkable upshot – from his knees! – to save a tap-in par. Nevertheless, Fredriksson’s drive stayed true and he sinks a long birdie putt for a share of the lead. (Augustsson and Edwards par.)
No. 16, 312 feet: Gurthie’s drive flies long and left, leaving him closer to 17’s bench than 16’s basket; he wisely opts to lay up for par rather than run it. Fredriksson has the better drive but fails to convert a makeable birdie putt, leaving them tied. Edwards finds the water hazard to the front-right of basket and bogeys with the penalty; Augustsson two-putts for par.
No. 17, 274 feet: Augustsson, Edwards and Fredriksson each toss either anhyzers or forehands through the tunnel – but Gurthie opts for the local route, skying a hyzer over the trees on the right of the pad. The results are much the same: star-birdie, with Fredriksson even threatening the CTP flag planted earlier by Randy Styron.
No. 18, 350 feet: Gorgeous drives all around, with fairly easy-ish birdies for Fredriksson and Edwards, and an uncharacteristic miss that Augustsson surely wishes he could have back. Gurthie’s tee shot might have landed as near the parking lot OB as the basket, but the four-time champ drains a must-have birdie putt from just beyond the whiskers of the circle to keep matters tied in his bid for a threepeat entering Sunday’s finale.
A few small miscues – ones that most CHO entrants would have considered personal successes – dropped Augustsson (tied for 5th) to the chase card, and kept Edwards off it (despite being T-7), while strong outings ahead of them catapulted Noah Meintsma and Cameron Messerschmidt (both T-3) into contention.
And despite Gurthie only saving par on several crucial late holes, he still finished bogey-free and with one more birdie than Augustsson (matching Meintsma for the day’s best), showing the ample mettle that’s earned him four prior trophies in this tournament.
Read round one recap here; finale to follow Sunday.

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Hunt for the Maji: The Blue Guitar - Ep. 02- Night Call (Adult Urban Fantasy/Isekai/SFF/Dark Fantasy/Cyberpunk) by Grebålks New Royal Road story page
Ep. 01
Raven Maddox: I think it’s fair to say that once-long-shot-candidate Jane Allgood shellacked her political opponent, embattled President Amanda Knutson. We’re going to keep our eyes on this. There’s still time. From the city of Chicago and the final presidential debate, this has been Raven Maddox, reporting live for the Free News Broadcasting Station. Back to you in Washington, George.
Alan pressed the side of his VR glasses. The large screen before his eyes faded, and the lenses cleared. He stood at the window. The cement sidewalk three stories below glistened wet beneath amber streetlights. He took off the headset and rubbed the bridge of his nose. It had been a gift to himself for getting through most of October, yet he resented the contraption—too absorbing. He had to be wary of things that were absorbing. That morning he’d lost himself for two hours on a DIY pornography channel full of shaky videos and bad lighting. Twisting the glasses in his hands, he felt the plastic crack and the lenses pop out. He went to the kitchen, dropped the mangled devise in the trash, then poured himself another glass of wine.
“TV on. Sync.”
The television that monopolized most of his living room wall, another gift, instantly sprang to life.

George Staff: Thank you, Raven. For post-debate analysis, we are joined by two people at the very top of this electoral race. President Knutson’s campaign manager, Hillary Reed, and Joseph Porchsmith, campaign manager for Security Party candidate Jane Allgood.
Joseph, to you first. How do you think the debate went?
Joseph Porchsmith {laughing}: Well, George, what you witnessed here tonight was Jane Allgood’s death blow to Amanda Knutson’s jugular. As Allgood stated, under Knutson’s leadership the economy has tanked with anywhere from fifty percent to sixty percent unemployment—depending on whose figures you’re inclined to trust. The war on the eastern front is caught in a quagmire. A fact Knutson avoids at every opportunity is that we’ve actually lost ground in the country of Georgia. The nuclear strike on Tbilisi, now more than thirteen years past, goes unaccounted for by yet another liberal hive-mind administration. You’ve got to wonder whose side these people are on! The Federation of Eastern European Nations, FEEN, is clearly responsible for that tragedy, and they need to be dealt with like the fiends they truly are! It’s time to bring President Orlov and his sons to justice!
Hillary Reed {clapping}: Bravo! Very nice rhetoric, Joe. I think the American people see it for what it is. The Security Party intends to use Allgood to bulldoze through a radical agenda designed to trample on the Constitution. There’s nothing in your platform that will fix the challenges America is facing.
Joseph Porchsmith: Excuse me, Hill, is this how you want to play? Fine, let’s talk about domestic policy. President Knutson has failed to pass meaningful health care reform—a key campaign pledge she made four years ago. Additionally, because of this administration’s liberal policies, the nation’s youth have been devastated, absolutely devastated, by the scourge of designer Escape drugs. What’s the death toll now? I’m afraid to look. Fifty million! That’s straight from the CDC. Fifty million dead, and an estimated one hundred million more are addicted—and that number is rising daily. Not only that, since Knutson took office, the average age of first use has dropped to below eighteen. On top of everything, we at the Allgood campaign have come across studies that suggest Escape may be responsible for certain viral infections. Anyone in their right mind can see that this administration has lost control—
Hillary Reed: Viral infections? George, I can’t let this go. Those studies were conducted by agenda-driven research. Haven’t the drug-addicted suffered enough? And now you’re trying to stigmatize them with rumors about viruses. Nice talking point, Joe. Joe the Scarecrow!
George Staff: Ms. Reed, please—
Joseph Porchsmith: George, I know this is your show. I’m sorry, but I’m just going to keep talking until I’m given a chance to actually speak—
George Staff: Ms. Reed, please. You will have your chance. And I think we’re above name calling on this show.
Joseph Porchsmith: Thank you, George. Finally, and most critically, under Knutson’s watch, America suffered the largest terrorist attack since 9/11. Of course, I’m referring to the Super Bowl Los Angeles attack two years ago when a radical environmental organization—linked to the Gretas and President Knutson—released a chemical weapon at a stadium filled with innocent men, women, and children—
Hillary Reed: Lie! That’s a Lie. George. There was no link to the president, or the Gretas! Joe, you know that—
George Staff: Ms. Reed. Don’t make me cut your mic.
Joseph Porchsmith: Bomber number one was a Greta. That’s established. What is also established is the fact that these homegrown terrorists had ties to the Knutson White House—
Hillary Reed: Stop! George—Joe! Stop! I can’t let that go. Half-baked truths, lies, and conspiracy theories! That’s what you’re peddling today, Joe. You pull these things out of your ass, and you’re never held accountable.
George Staff: Ms. Reed, language, please! Your mic is off. You will have your say in just a moment. Mr. Porchsmith, get to the point.
Joseph Porchsmith: Thank you, George. So, Hillary, you might want to listen carefully. What America is desperate for, and what Jane Allgood proposes, is a radical restructuring of society to restore the values of our founders and America’s safety. That is why on day one of Allgood’s presidency, she is going to introduce the Third Eye legislation to Congress—the votes are there for its passage—and she’s going to sign it on the same day, thus granting her the authority to install cyber and homeland security that has been lacking under your boss. How many hacks in this admin⁠—
George Staff: Okay, Mr. Porchsmith, thank you. That was a lot in one breath {laughs}. Hillary Reed, to you. Your response to Porchsmith and the debate.
Hillary Reed: Thank you, George. First, I want to say it’s disgraceful that Porchsmith and his candidate continue to lie and perpetuate these conspiracy theories about that terrible attack. Everyone knows—
Joseph Porchsmith: It was on her watch. It happened on President Knutson’s watch!
Hillary Reed: Excuse me, Joe. Don’t interrupt me. I let you make your point. Now I’ll tell the truth. First, the Gretas are a massive, global phenomenon, and there are a lot of nut cases out there. They cannot be held responsible for one—
Joseph Porchsmith: Do you deny that bomber number two was once an intern for Knutson when she was on the board of directors for Earth Peace, itself a far-left environmental group?
George Staff: Mr. Porchsmith. Ms. Reed, please finish.

Alan opened the back door, stepped out onto the little balcony covered by a half-awning to keep the weather from coming directly through the entry, and lit a cigarette. The sleet still fell, and above the apartment block, the low carpet of clouds reflected the amber hue of small-town lights. Snow incoming. The pinot noir and tobacco swirled an intoxicating dance in his mouth. The television droned on.

Hillary Reed: As I was saying, President Knutson has had to fend off this disinformation campaign by Allgood and her goons in the Security Party for almost two years now. Anyone who wants to can go read the Independent Investigator’s report, the CIA’s report, and the FBI’s report, all of which have found absolutely no link or relationship between bomber number two and the president. That terrorist—I’m not afraid to say it—that terrorist was one of three hundred volunteers working at Earth Peace on a part-time internship administered by a third party. President Knutson did not know the man, nor had she ever met him. Those are the facts.
See, George, this is what Porchsmith and the Allgood campaign have done from the very beginning. They twist, mislead, and obfuscate through lies and conspiracy theories in order to muddy the waters. And then, while Americans are distracted, they plot to destroy the Constitution. The point is, if Americans elect Jane Allgood, they are going to get this Third Eye legislation, giving the president broad powers to allow artificial intelligence to track your every move. There will be intrusive psychological monitoring and profiling, and who knows what else because the bill is expected to be classified as soon as it’s introduced. A vote for Allgood is a vote against American values.
Joseph Porchsmith: Nice Try, Hill. That was desperate.
George Staff: Thank you both. Emotions are high. The stakes are high. We’ll be back with further analysis by our expert panel.

Alan switched off the television. His wall turned black, and silence pervaded his small apartment. Like many Americans, he was riveted to the drama of this election season, and like many Americans, he’d lost hope in the political process. He had no plans to vote.
He flicked his cigarette into the alley.
To avoid getting worked up over things far outside his realm, he poured himself another glass of wine, tipping the bottle up to get the last dribbles of the crimson nectar. The warming numbness of onsetting drunk warmed his cheeks and fogged his mind. His fingers tingled. Something smooth behind his eyes said, relax. He turned the music station to midnight jazz and dimmed the lights. A mournful trumpet wept into his apartment. The expensive sound system was a gift to himself last Christmas for making it through the year. This year, a mountain bike. The plan was to tackle the second half of middle age with a vengeance.
Somewhere near the crepuscule of sleep in his cushy leather recliner, his phone began to vibrate, which caused the coffee table to hum, sending little ripples across the surface of his wine.
“Alan, it’s Paul. Put the Merlot down and listen,” said a rough voice that sounded like it had choked back a couple hundred thousand too many filterless cigarettes. “I’ve got a client for you.”
“Jesus, Paul. It’s 11 PM, and it’s pinot.”
“What are you, eighty-five years old? I’m still fucking my mistress at 11 PM. I really need your help on this one.”
“No, Paul. No more AI analysis. No more displaced worker syndrome. No more election derangement cases. I don’t care if they are in the manual.”
“You told me you were looking for something different. I’m just doing my part to keep psychotherapists off the breadline.”
“I figure as soon as Allgood gets in, I might as well join the other over-educated, under-employed professionals. You know the Security Party is going to gut the clinic’s funding.”
“Don’t drink the kool-aid, Alan. It’s just a bunch of political bullshit. If there’s one thing AI won’t be able to replace, it’s shrinks. Nobody is gonna want to talk to a robot about the robot that stole their job.”
“You’ll be singing a different tune when AI red-flags you for your lunchtime cigar and cognac problem.”
Dr. Paul Murphy, it was well known, enjoyed things a little bit on the luxurious side for a homegrown Montana psychiatrist.
“Who says there’s a problem?” said Murphy. “Anyway, Alan, I called you because I know you did your dissertation on juvenile offenders.”
“Oh, did you finally read it?”
“Abstracts and conclusions are all that matter. Christ, I’m an old man, grasshopper.”
Alan suppressed a bitter chuckle. Apart from his dissertation adviser and Zoey, no one had actually read his research. His adviser didn’t wholly agree with his conclusions, and Zoey had read it because she loved him, and she was a whiz at grammar.
“It’s a kid,” Murphy said.
Silence spanned between them. The trumpet was wailing in his ears.
“No,” said Alan.
“Alan—”
“Paul, I’m not… I don’t… I can’t…”
“He’s a native boy, lost as fuck, Alan. County’s going to run him through the ringer.”
“Becky, Paul. She went after me before.”
“If you don’t take this, I’ll have to put it on her desk. Do me a solid, for Christ’s sake. I don’t care about the other ones, but this one, Alan, this one is for you. And I don’t want Dr. Madison to touch it with a ten-foot pole.”
Alan opened the door and stepped back out onto the little veranda. The snow had started. He lit a cigarette. “She’ll just go to the board and tell them the dream-interpreting Escape addict is working with children again. They’ll run me through the whole gamut.”
“You detoxed. That’s an achievement in itself. I’ll lobby on your behalf. I founded this clinic. I might be emeritus, but I still got pull with the board. Christ, she’ll medicate him first thing.”
“They can’t do that. He’s a kid.”
“They can do that because they’re going to play the predator card.”
“Cunt,” Alan breathed.
“I didn’t hear that, Dr. Smith.”
“I’m not suited...”
“Look, at least do the initial eval and tell me what you think.”
Alan slammed the last of his wine. He had a bottle breathing on deck. “Fine, alright. I have time on Monday.”
“Nope. It’s got to be tomorrow. First thing in the morning.”
“Shit, I got a 9:30 with a spinner. Need to convince her that her dead husband isn’t talking to her from the toilet bowl.”
“You’ll have time. Or cancel with the spinner. She won’t know the difference. You need to get there before the sheriff gets in. This shit is going to blow up. There’s a big name involved.”
“Yeah? Like who?”
“Like John Taylor’s daughter.”
“The senator, that John Taylor?”
“The one and only.”
“Christ.” Alan rubbed his eyes and wished he hadn’t uncorked the second bottle.
“They brought him in tonight from the police station. They’re going to interrogate him tomorrow. He’s Native, so the tribe will want an eval first since he’s a minor. Cover their bases, and make sure he’s not loony tunes. It’ll be an uphill fight.”
“Anywhere but Montana,” said Alan.
“Be careful who you talk to. This case is a little sensitive. I’ll send the file to your email. He’s almost a John Doe. Both parents are MIA, probably spinners. Orphan most likely. No address. We got him in D-Pad for his safety and comfort.”
“Fuck, is it that bad?” D-Pad, or Padded Room D—deep, depressed, dungeon—was the clinic’s safe room for clients, usually Escape addicts, intent on self-harm.
“Better safe than sorry. Better than a jail cell. Security Sam is on the job, so I’m confident the boy’s okay until you get there tomorrow morning.”
“I’ll be there.”
“I know you will, Alan. Thank you. I feel better now. Oh, and one more thing. You didn’t forget, did you?”
“Forget what?” He played dumb.
“Come on, man. The Lake County Halloween Gala is the day after tomorrow. You promised. The deep pockets are gonna be there.”
“Yeah. Fuck it. I know. But I’m not dressing up.”
“Fine, fine, come as you are. It’s costume enough.”
Click.
The thought of getting off the chair annoyed him. He had to do something with that wine. The screaming in his head told him to dump it down the sink. He jerked to his feet, went into the kitchen, and picked the bottle up by the neck.
“Öküzgözü Boğazkere,” he said, trying to read the label. His research on the internet had informed him that the two little dots over the vowels meant you pronounced them in the back of your mouth. The crescent moon over the g meant you didn’t say it at all. “Ookuuzgoozuu Boazkeray.”
Satisfied with his pronunciation and gripping the bottle by the neck, he took it to the veranda along with another cigarette. He lit the cigarette and inhaled deeply. The snow had matured into a proper front. Flakes hit his face and melted. From the sound system, the trumpet spoke to a piano about sorrow. He brought the bottle to his lips and let the wine unfurl its ribbon over his tongue and through his teeth. He closed his eyes and could smell and taste the sweet oats they used to keep in a bag on the tack shed floor for the horse, the plum fruit of her nape, the crisp pine needle crushed between finger and thumb and inhaled up a nostril, and a dark chocolate finish. “Öküzgözü Boğazkere.” The design on the bottle was a field, and in that field the golden silhouette of a man walked against a black sky. He filled his lungs with smoke again, then tipped the bottle to his lips, and did not pull away until the wine was gone.
He stepped in his bare feet onto the wet deck, sucked on his cigarette, and threw the bottle with all his might over the corner of the next block, where it shattered on the street in a moment of racket. A dog barked. A porch light came on. He finished his cigarette and flicked it down into the inch-deep snow. The swoon took him in its swell, and he became sick, leaned over the rail, and expelled two bottles of wine, crackers, and cheese from his gullet. He stayed leaning over, saliva dripping from his nose and mouth, and tried to breathe and to decipher the Rorschach of his handiwork on the street of new-fallen snow.

• Source : Splann !, via Reporterre, 25/11/2024

• Glomel, dans le centre de la Bretagne, étendue sur près de 80 km2,
• Abrite la réserve naturelle régionale des landes et marais de Glomel,
• ainsi que deux sites Natura 2000 et plusieurs zones naturelles d’intérêt écologique faunistique et floristique.
• Glomel abrite aussi la plus grande mine à ciel ouvert en activité de l’Hexagone :
• sur place, la multinationale Imerys peut extraire chaque année jusqu’à 1,5 million de tonnes de roches et raffine dans ses deux usines un quart de la production mondiale d’andalousite

• Dans le Kergroaz, un minuscule ruisseau qui serpente dans le sous-bois, Imerys rejette chaque année environ 1,5 million de mètres cubes d’eaux usées.
• La préfecture des Côtes-d’Armor autorise le site à rejeter chaque jour dans ses eaux usées jusqu’à 9 kg d’hydrocarbures et, entre autres, jusqu’à 11 kg par jour au total de cobalt et de nickel, des métaux cancérigènes, mutagènes et reprotoxiques.

• Imerys assure n’avoir « aucun impact sur les eaux » et a financé une étude sur cinq ans de l’état écologique du Crazius, où se jette le Kergroaz.
• Cette étude payée par l’industriel conclut à un « bon état » du cours d’eau pour certains paramètres,
• Les métaux les plus toxiques émis par le site n'ont pas été mesurés

• En juillet puis en septembre, Splann ! a prélevé plusieurs jeux d’échantillons de sédiments dans le lit du ruisseau. Ces sédiments ont été analysés par un laboratoire accrédité Cofrac.
• Les résultats de ces analyses
  • ont été interprétés avec l’aide de Frédéric Gimbert, spécialiste des pollutions minières et chercheur en écotoxicologie au Centre nationale de la recherche scientifique (CNRS) de Besançon.
  • les concentrations en nickel sont jusqu’à 60 fois supérieures à la valeur guide pour un bon état écologique des sédiments d’eau douce.
  • Les concentrations en cobalt sont jusqu’à 20 fois supérieures à cette valeur.
  • Il y a aussi des métaux toxiques qu’Imerys n’est pas censé déverser : □ quatre fois la valeur guide pour l’arsenic □ Une teneur anormale en cadmium, □ tous deux également cancérigènes, mutagènes et reprotoxiques.

• « Il n’existe pas de contrôle sanitaire sur la ressource “Pont Saint-Yves” exclusivement », déclare l’ARS locale. Le captage d’eau le plus exposé aux pollutions de la mine n'est pas surveillé :
• Le dossier d’enquête publique expose :
• De très fortes concentrations de cadmium, de chrome, de cobalt, de nickel et de plomb (des métaux dits « lourds », cancérigènes, neurotoxiques et reprotoxiques.)
• Que les usines de Glomel utilisent 75 tonnes par an de substances nocives pour l’environnement et la santé.
• Que Chaque année, une trentaine de tonnes de ces produits sont déversées dans le « joli lac ».
• Que malgré les affirmations d'Imerys selon lesquelles la fosse est « étanche », aucune membrane n’empêche ces boues acides de s’infiltrer dans les eaux souterraines.
• Les contaminants de ces déchets toxiques ont commencé à migrer vers les eaux souterraines :
• Selon Imerys elle-même, les taux de contaminants ont explosé entre 2012 et 2021.
• Sous le site minier, les eaux souterraines contiennent quarante fois la teneur en nickel maximale autorisée pour les eaux brutes destinées à la consommation.
• Les autres contaminants (cobalt, cadmium, arsenic, produits chimiques…) susceptibles d’avoir migré vers la nappe ne sont pas surveillés.

• Drainage minier acide, quézako ?
• La roche exploitée à Glomel contient de la pyrite. Quand la roche mise à nu par l’extraction ou les déchets miniers du site rencontrent de l’eau (la pluie par exemple), cette eau se transforme naturellement en acide sulfurique et entraîne vers l’aval les contaminants présents dans la roche.
• C’est ce qu’on appelle le drainage minier acide, l’une des pollutions les plus redoutables liées à l’activité minière.
• Le drainage minier acide est sans limite de temps (Systex)
• À Chessy-les-Mines, dans le Rhône, un gisement riche en pyrite a été exploité depuis le Moyen Âge. La mine a fermé après un effondrement dans la galerie principale, survenu en 1877.
• Un rapport confidentiel du Bureau des recherches géologiques et minières (BRGM) publié en 2019 prouve qu l’acidité et les concentrations de métaux dans les eaux minières n'ont pas baissé depuis 1877 (!) malgré les efforts faits en ce sens. Ces eaux minières, quoique traitées « depuis 130 ans », sont trop polluantes, si bien qu'on a dû construire une toute nouvelle station de traitement des eaux en 2005.
• À Chessy, le problème se pose sur 20 hectares ; à Glomel, il se posera sur 265 hectares.

• l’État vient en juin 2024 d'autoriser à poursuivre l’exploitation jusqu’en 2044
• IMEYS prévoit une 4e fosse d’extraction : un trou grand comme quinze terrains de football et aussi profond que cinq immeubles parisiens empilés.
• Ainsi, les services de l’État ont autorisé l’entreprise à générer au total environ 12 millions de m3 de déchets supplémentaires

• à Toultreincq, une usine de potabilisation est en pleins travaux. pour un coût de 6 millions d’euros d’argent public
• « La pollution de l’eau par la mine ? C’est simple : ce n’est pas un sujet. Il n’y a aucun problème », déclare, dès le début de notre visite, Dominique Riguidel, le directeur d’Eau du Morbihan
• Mais le directeur d’Eau du Morbihan est formel : tout ceci n’a aucun rapport avec le fait qu’Imerys rejette chaque année 1,5 million de mètres cubes d’eaux usées contenant des sulfates, des hydrocarbures et des métaux lourds en amont de ce captage.

Psychemedics Corporation (NASDAQ: PMD) operates as a leader in hair-testing for drug detection, catering to industries such as healthcare, education, and corporate compliance. With a niche market and established track record, PMD offers a unique opportunity for investors seeking exposure to small-cap, specialized companies. However, its financial performance and market dynamics present a mixed bag for both traders and long-term investors.

Recent news highlights PMD's consistent focus on innovation:

• New Services: The company recently launched a ketamine hair-testing service and expanded its education-related testing solutions.
• Earnings Beat: In Q3 2024, PMD posted a 27.21% stock surge, reflecting strong investor confidence after positive earnings results.

At the same time, challenges remain:

• Financial metrics reveal a struggle to maintain profitability, with a net margin of -14.78% and declining revenue compared to previous years.

Why It’s Worth Considering:

• Volatility: With a weekly performance of +38% and a monthly gain of 36.88%, PMD offers ample price movement for short-term plays.
• News Catalysts: Announcements related to new services and financial updates have driven strong intraday moves.
• Liquidity: Despite being a small-cap stock, recent trading volume has increased, with a 36.59% price change in a single day.

Risks:

• Thin liquidity during low-volume sessions can lead to price gaps, increasing risk.
• Market reactions can be over-exaggerated for a company of this size.

Day Trading Tip: Watch for momentum-driven moves triggered by news updates. Key levels to monitor include support at $3.00 and resistance around $3.50.

Why It’s Promising:

• Momentum: PMD’s short-term moving averages (SMA20 up 34.40%, SMA50 up 30.36%) suggest a bullish trend in the medium term.
• Potential Catalysts: Positive sentiment from earnings and new product announcements could sustain an upward trajectory.

Risks:

• Resistance near $4.00 may cap gains, particularly if market conditions deteriorate.
• Earnings volatility could disrupt the trend, especially for small-cap companies.

Swing Trading Tip: Consider entering on pullbacks to $3.00-$3.20, with profit targets near $3.80-$4.00. Use a stop-loss at $2.80 to limit downside exposure.

Why It’s Risky:

• Weak Profitability Metrics: With a ROA of -25.02% and ROE of -46.52%, PMD struggles with consistent profitability.
• Small-Cap Challenges: PMD faces inherent risks of market share erosion and difficulty scaling operations.
• Limited Growth: Sales growth has stagnated, with sales down -11.16% YoY.

Potential Upside:

• PMD serves a niche market, and its specialized offerings in drug-testing could see increased demand as regulatory environments tighten.
• The dividend yield has historically been attractive, though recent challenges have put payouts at risk.

Investing Tip: Long-term investors should wait for sustained improvements in profitability and sales growth before committing substantial capital. Watch for strategic partnerships or expanded service lines as potential growth drivers.

• Day Trading: 70/100 – Suitable for short-term volatility-driven trades.
• Swing Trading: 75/100 – Momentum and catalysts offer a promising opportunity for medium-term gains.
• Long-Term Investing: 60/100 – Requires caution due to financial instability and limited growth.

Psychemedics offers unique exposure to a specialized industry but carries significant risks due to its size and financial metrics. While short-term trades may benefit from momentum, long-term investors should focus on the company’s ability to sustain profitability and capitalize on niche demand.
Disclaimer: This analysis is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Always conduct your own research or consult a financial advisor before making investment decisions.
Looking to stay ahead of the market? Get real-time alerts, in-depth analysis, and actionable insights with StockNews.ai — your edge in smarter investing.

Crap, sorry, I realized at 4:30 yesterday that it was Thursday and not Wednesday. I've been in the weeds, so this definitely isn't complete. Add anything you know about in the comments, please!
Events are listed by the day. Events that happen every week appear first, one time stuff after that. If you have anything you’d like people to know about, comment here or message me and I’ll add it in. If you’d like further info about any of the events, look it up! I usually don’t have any extra to add.
Events may be cancelled unexpectedly. If in doubt, contact the venue.
Large Scale, Ongoing, and Multi-Day Events

• WinterFest 2025! The 38th annual Winter Festival - a Celebration of Lights, Music and the Arts will fill downtown Tallahassee with merriment on Saturday, December 7, from 3:00 - 10:00pm. Visitors can enjoy delicious food vendors, unique arts and crafts merchants and sparkling holiday displays, including Candy Cane Lane in McCarty Park. There will be a children's activity area on Kleman Plaza that will show family-friendly holiday movies from 6:00 - 10:00pm. Four stages of live entertainment will dot downtown and highlight local actors, dancers, musicians and more. The Lighting Ceremony takes place at 6:00pm on the parade announcers' platform, located on South Monroe Street at Bloxham Park. The Capital Health Plan Jingle Bell Run begins at 6:15pm. The Nighttime Holiday Parade begins at 7pm. Reminder! Do not try to drive through downtown Saturday! No! It is not the way! Turn back!
  
• Market Days 2025: Market Days is back on December 7th & 8th at the North Florida Fairgrounds! This wonderful Arts and Crafts event bring together artisans and shoppers each year for a fun and exciting event! Market Days is recognized in Sunshine Artists Top 200 Events. Market Days is as essential today for the Tallahassee Museum as it was in 1965. Funds from Market Days benefit the Museum in innumerable ways. From educational programs for all ages to the care of our living wildlife collection and historic buildings, Market Days supports the Museum helping to provide the many services we deliver to our audiences throughout the region. Market Days is a volunteer run event. Market Days is a rain or shine event. For more information on this event, visit marketdays.org
  
• The Allison Christmas Spectacular! The Allison Christmas Spectacular is celebrating 17 years, and our ONE in a MILLION Celebration is going to be our biggest and brightest year EVER! We now feature over 1️ MILLION synchronized lights at 2️ VENUES - Sandy Creek Road and the Havana Christmas Tree Farm, a half mile north off Hwy 27! It is FREE to come see the lights with NO tickets existing or required, and both shows are drive-through experiences. Showtimes are Thanksgiving through New Year's, from 6-10 pm ET. Tune in to 102.5 FM on Sandy Creek Road and 102.1 FM at the Havana Christmas Tree Farm to hear the show. We have sheriffs on schedule to help with traffic flow every night. Be sure to make multiple loops through each show to see as much as possible! Donations are also being accepted for show and sheriff expenses – either with cash in the donation boxes at each venue – or on Cash App ($allisonchristmas) and Venmo (@allisonchristmas). We’re again hosting a Charity Drive for our community - accepting food, hygiene, baby, house supplies, pet supplies, clothing, etc. (drop-offs in wheelbarrows at each venue). What a great way to help our community, and in ways we may never know! Thanks for the continued support every year and helping us spread the love of Jesus throughout our community!
  
• LeMoyne’s 61st Annual Holiday Show "Celebrating Home". Save the date for LeMoyne’s highly anticipated 61st Annual Holiday Show: Celebrating Home! Join us as we celebrate with a nod to Tallahassee’s bicentennial and the cherished moments that make this time of year so special. As the holiday season approaches, LeMoyne Arts is thrilled to announce our upcoming show: “Celebrating Home”! This Festive event captures the warmth, joy, and creativity that define the holiday spirit. Mark your calendars for this enchanting show and commemorate the holidays with LeMoyne Arts. “Celebrating Home” is an opportunity to revel in the magic of the season, connect with fellow art enthusiasts, and take home a piece of the holiday spirit. LeMoyne Arts Holiday Show Hours: November 23rd-December 24. Tuesday – Saturday, 11am – 6pm. Sundays, 1pm – 5pm. (Closed Mondays). Christmas Eve, 11am – 2pm.
  

Local Running, Walking, and Biking Info: https://troubleafoot.blogspot.com/
Guided Paddling Outings all around the area: https://www.facebook.com/hsmithoutdoors
Tallahassee Film Society Showings: https://www.tallahasseefilms.com/tickets/
Book Clubs for all tastes: https://www.facebook.com/midtownreadeevents
Live Theater:

• Making Light Productions: https://www.makinglightproductions.org/
  
• Theatre Tallahassee: https://theatretallahassee.org/
  
• Mickee Faust Club: https://www.mickeefaust.com/
  
• Monticello Opera House: https://www.monticellooperahouse.org/
  
• FSU School of Theatre: https://theatre.fsu.edu/productions/
  
• Young Actors Theatre: https://www.youngactorstheatre.com/
  
• Quincy Music Theatre: https://quincymusictheatre.com/
  
• Tallahassee Hispanic Theater: https://tallahasseehispanictheater.wordpress.com/
  
• White Mouse Productions: https://www.facebook.com/WhiteMouseProductions
  

Events at the Leon County Public Libraries: Including story times, play dates, book clubs, and other fun stuff! https://leoncountyfl.libcal.com/calendar
OutdooFarmer’s Markets:

• Tallahassee Downtown Market: Saturdays, 10am-2pm, Park Ave Parks. Vendors display their arts and fine crafts, jewelry, handmade soap, pottery, Fresh from Florida produce, hand-raised beef and pork, fresh baked bread, jams and jellies, and honey. Live music from different local musicians every Saturday.
  
• FSU Farmer’s Market: 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month from 10am- 3pm. Seminole Dining and the Frenchtown Neighborhood Improvement Association have partnered to bring fresh produce and homemade goods to Florida State University’s campus. The market aims to foster personal connections and mutually beneficial relationships between local farmers, artisans, and the campus community. (Not sure if this happens over the summer.)
  
• Frenchtown Heritage Market: Currently rolled in with the FSU Farmer’s Market. https://www.instagram.com/ftfarmersmarket/ for updates.
  
• Tallahassee Farmers Market: 2904 Kerry Forest Pkwy, Saturdays, 8am to Noon. Come see us at Tallahassee's longest-running farmers market! We are a year-round market, featuring local farms and vendors that provide the best seasonal produce, meats, baked goods, and more. We welcome you and your whole family (leashed pets included) to come out and meet your local farmers! Ample parking is available between our lot and the shopping center lot next door (by Red Elephant). Come early for the best selection.
  
• St. Marks Community Market: Saturdays, 9am to 1pm. Come enjoy local artists, crafters, bakers, farmers, and gardeners in beautiful downtown St. Marks!
  

THURSDAY, 12/5

• The Hub at Feather Oaks: Throwback Tunes Music Bingo. 6pm
  
• The Sound Bar: Open Blues Jam. 6pm
  
• Kleman Plaza: Downtown Yoga. Need a break from the hustle and bustle? Downtown has got you covered! 🧘‍♀️ Join us for FREE Downtown Yoga sessions in Kleman Plaza, starting Thursday, August 1st from 6-7pm. Classes will continue on Thursdays through January. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced yogi, everyone is welcome! Just bring your mat, some water, and positive energy. 6pm
  
• Pedro’s: Karaoke. 6pm
  
• Honest Living Tea House: Chess-Master Thursdays . Beginners and experts, join us every Thursday from 6-9 for Chess-Master Thursdays. All ages. Bring your board or play ours! 6pm
  
• Lake Tribe: Trivia. 7pm
  
• Amicus Brewing: Trivia. 7pm
  
• Cap City Video Lounge: MST3K Thursday showing Monster A-Go-Go and Manos The Hands of Fate.Join us Thursday as we climb aboard The Satellite of Love along with Joel, Tom Servo and CROOOOW for a double dose of completely botched and legendarily cheesy schlock horror films! 7:30pm/free but donations encouraged
  
• Smitty's Taphouse: Trivia Lab Thursdays. Teams of 6 or fewer players can compete for $30 / $20 / $10 Prizes + The Golden MacGuffin prize table! New format! Interactive smartphone answering for your comfort and safety! 6 Fun Rounds - 42 Total Questions. 7:30pm
  
• Studio D: Bachata Fever. We always have a bachata workshop at 8 pm before Bachata Fever. We dance afterwards to the sounds of DJ Bacharod. The class is at 8 pm and Bachata Fever will start at 930 pm. Many times people are learning in class and may feel uncomfortable social dancing while they are still learning moves. We have a welcoming environment so stay and have fun and dance with everyone. That is how we learn. 8pm/Class $5/Bachata Fever $5.
  
• Brass Tap in Midtown: Karaoke with DJ Rah. 9pm
  
• 926: Karaoke with DJ Phoenix. 9pm
  
• Bird’s: Karaoke with Nathan. 9pm
  

Throwaway account for privacy. After working towards FIRE since college, I think I'm ready to pull the trigger in January! I'm quite confident in our numbers but figure it can't hurt to look for holes in the plan.
I'm a 38 year old mechanical engineer, ~200k/year income. Wife is 36 and works in Tech, income has varied with stock vests, will peak this year at $550k, dropping to $400k next year and would likely drop further the following year. No kids and no plans to have kids. Live in a VHCOL area. I realize we have been very lucky in our careers as well as with how the market has performed to allow us to consider quitting this early. In the last 12 months our investable net worth has gone up 50% between our savings and market appreciation which has trimmed a year or so off my anticipated timeline. I would have settled for a higher withdrawal rate prior to this last year of crazy market appreciation so we've actually surpassed our "target number" awhile ago.
Current assets:
NW: $4.5m + Primary residence.
Taxable Index Funds: $1.65m Taxable Bonds: $450k Taxable Tech Shares: $650k Cash: $60k Retirement Index Funds: $1.7m Primary Home: $1m Mortgage: $360k @ 2.1%, 11 years remaining on 15 year. NW: $4.5m + Primary residence.
Spending:
Current annual spending: $155,000. Annual spending without Principal/Interest on mortgage: $120,000
Projected Health Insurance Spending: $15,000/year NOTE: non insurance healthcare spending is already part of the current annual spending.
Extra Spending for home repairs/car replacement etc: $20,000/year
Future home upgrade: 5+ years down the line we will likely want to upgrade our primary residence after we get some travel out of the way. Will likely spend an additional $750,000 but will be flexible on timing and amount based on circumstances at the time.
Other Income:
We receive approximately $24,000/year in cast gifts from parents. While not absolutely guaranteed, this is unlikely to stop prior to them passing on. Parents are 75 but generally healthy. Likely to receive at minimum $1.5m for inheritance.
Wife will plan to continue working for 1 additional year as insurance against the bottom falling out of the market the day after I quit. That's an extra ~$300k in after tax income between now and both of us pulling the trigger.
Thoughts:
Assuming small but positive market gains between now and my wife pulling the trigger in early 2026, we are on track to have approximately $5m in investable assets as well as receiving $24k/year in gifts.
Our spending, stripping out the principle/interest portion of our mortgage, is $131k/year once I add in the $35k in extra health insurance/durable goods spending but subtract the $24k in gifts. Round it up to $140k after accounting for taxes and a bit of extra spending.
I plan to roll the dice on leaving money invested in the stock market vs paying off our 2.1% mortgage. If the market is still super frothy in 1-2 years when we can start taking advantage of the 0% capital gains rate, I may sell off enough shares to pay off the house and invest that money in bonds to take advantage of the 4% interest rate vs our 2.1% mortgage. Will evaluate at the time based on taxes, ACA subsidies and the state of the stock market.
Over the next year and a bit before my wife retires, I plan to finish putting another $300k into bonds. At that point we will have $750k spread out in $35-$40k lumps that come to term every 3 months. That works out to 5 years of expenses other than our mortgage repayment.
Subtracting the $330k that we will owe on our mortgage from the $5m leaves $4.67m in investable assets. With $140k in recurring expenses, assuming we wanted to plan for a 3.5% withdrawal rate, that would imply we have about $670k more than we need. Given our plan to upgrade our house in the 5-10 year future and that will likely involve a ~$750k expenditure, it seems likely that the $670k current excess will grow to cover that as well as some increased expenses that will come along with the larger home. This is a flexible expense regarding both the amount and timing. Depending on circumstances we could also look into getting a mortgage or loan against our brokerage if the numbers looked favorable instead of selling shares to cover the home upgrade.
Given the fact that we are both in our late 30’s, we also recognize that we have ample opportunity to make some money in the future, whether taking on some work in our old industries or getting a casual job just to ease some pressure on the finances if there has been a big downturn. We also live in one of the most expensive cities on earth, love to travel, and bought a campervan last year that we want to make much more use of. I believe that it is very possible that our expenses could potentially be lower in retirement when we can spend more time traveling to places where things are significantly cheaper. We also plan to be flexible in our spending. If the market drops 30% I’m perfectly happy to use some airline miles or drive our van down to Mexico/Costa Rica and sit on a beach or spend more time backpacking and hiking that year instead of taking a more expensive trip to Europe.
Let me know what you think. I feel confident but want to know if I’m totally neglecting something obvious.

rekking to Everest Base Camp (EBC) is one of the most iconic journeys in the world, drawing thousands of trekkers from all corners of the globe every year. As a part of the Himalayas, the trek offers unparalleled views of the highest mountain on Earth, Mount Everest, and the surrounding peaks. If you’re planning to embark on this life-changing adventure with Himalayan Asia Treks, one of Nepal’s leading trekking companies, understanding how long the trek takes is essential for proper preparation. This guide will answer all your questions about the duration of the Everest Base Camp trek, including details about the route, distance, and what influences the overall time required.

The Everest Base Camp trek is typically completed over a period of 12-14 days, but the duration can vary depending on factors such as the pace of the group, acclimatization needs, and specific itinerary preferences. Starting from the bustling city of Kathmandu, trekkers take a flight to Lukla and begin the journey towards the Base Camp. Along the way, the trek passes through picturesque villages, monasteries, dense forests, and lush valleys, with ample opportunities for acclimatization and rest.
Himalayan Asia Treks offers a variety of Everest Base Camp trek packages, including customized itineraries that ensure you trek at a comfortable pace and enjoy the journey fully. Whether you’re taking the traditional route or opting for a helicopter return after reaching EBC, the company ensures your trek is smooth and well-supported throughout.

The Everest Base Camp trek can generally be broken down into the following key segments, depending on the starting point:

The trek begins with a short but scenic flight from Kathmandu to Lukla (2,860 meters), which is the gateway to the Everest region. The flight takes approximately 35-40 minutes, depending on weather conditions.

The first day of the trek involves a short and easy walk to Phakding (2,610 meters). The distance is about 7-8 kilometers and can take 3-4 hours. It is a relatively easy day that helps you adjust to the higher altitude gradually.

The trek continues from Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3,440 meters), the largest Sherpa town in the Everest region. The distance is around 10-12 kilometers, and it typically takes 6-7 hours to complete. This is one of the more challenging days due to the ascent and altitude.

An important part of the Everest Base Camp trek itinerary is acclimatization. After reaching Namche Bazaar, you’ll spend a day acclimatizing and exploring the area. This is crucial to prevent altitude sickness and to allow your body to adjust to the increasing elevation.

From Namche Bazaar, the trek proceeds to Tengboche (3,860 meters), a village known for its monastery with spectacular views of Everest and the surrounding peaks. The trek distance is approximately 10 kilometers and takes around 5-6 hours.

The next leg takes you to Dingboche (4,410 meters), where you will once again spend an acclimatization day. This day’s trek is about 11 kilometers and can take 5-6 hours.

A second acclimatization day at Dingboche will help your body adjust to the altitude, and you'll get a chance to explore the area around Dingboche.

From Dingboche, the trek continues towards Lobuche (4,940 meters), taking about 6-7 hours over 10 kilometers. The scenery becomes even more dramatic as you approach the higher reaches of the Everest region.

The trek to Gorak Shep (5,160 meters), the last village before Everest Base Camp, takes about 4-5 hours. The distance is approximately 5-6 kilometers, and this marks the final stop before the highlight of your trek—Everest Base Camp.

On Day 10, you’ll head to Everest Base Camp (5,364 meters). This final leg of the trek typically takes 3-4 hours. After taking in the views and snapping photos at Base Camp, you’ll return to Gorak Shep for the night.

The trek back begins with a descent from Gorak Shep to Pheriche (4,280 meters), which typically takes around 6-7 hours. From here, trekkers usually stay the night.

You’ll then descend to Namche Bazaar, which takes about 7-8 hours, covering a distance of 15 kilometers. It’s a significant descent that gives your legs a good workout.

Finally, the trek concludes with a descent back to Lukla, which usually takes about 6-7 hours, covering a distance of 12 kilometers. Once in Lukla, you’ll have a celebratory meal before heading back to Kathmandu the next day.

After completing the trek, you will return to Kathmandu by flight from Lukla.

While the typical Everest Base Camp trek duration ranges from 12 to 14 days, several factors can influence how long it will take:

• Pace of the Trekker: Individual fitness and hiking speed can affect the overall time.
• Acclimatization: Adequate acclimatization is crucial to avoid altitude sickness. If additional days are required to adjust to the altitude, this will extend the trek.
• Weather Conditions: The Everest region is known for its unpredictable weather. Bad weather could delay flights to Lukla or change trekking plans.
• Itinerary Variations: Some trekkers opt for longer routes or side trips, like a visit to Kala Patthar for panoramic views of Mount Everest, which can add a few extra days.

Himalayan Asia Treks offers a variety of Everest Base Camp trek packages, ranging from the traditional trek to the luxury Everest Base Camp trek with amenities like heated tea houses, personal guides, and porters. The company also provides options for a helicopter return from Base Camp, cutting down the trek duration and giving trekkers a unique aerial view of the mountains.
For those seeking a more adventurous route, the Everest Three Passes Trek is another challenging option, adding several days to the journey while offering breathtaking views of the Everest region from different angles.

The Everest Base Camp trek typically takes 12 to 14 days, including acclimatization and rest days, though the exact duration may vary based on individual preferences and pace. Whether you're trekking at a relaxed pace or taking additional side trips, it’s crucial to factor in acclimatization and altitude to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Himalayan Asia Treks ensures that your trek is well-paced, and you can choose from a range of packages designed to fit your needs.
By trekking with Himalayan Asia Treks, you’re not just signing up for a trek; you’re embarking on a journey of a lifetime, one that takes you to the foot of the world’s tallest peak and allows you to experience the majesty of the Himalayas like never before.

The Everest Base Camp Trek (EBC trek) is undoubtedly one of the most iconic trekking adventures in the world. Thousands of trekkers from all over the globe visit Nepal every year to embark on this unforgettable journey. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced trekker, there are various Everest Base Camp trekking packages available to suit different needs and preferences.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the Everest Base Camp trek, from trekking packages and itineraries to costs, difficulty levels, highlights, and tips for booking your trek.

When booking an Everest Base Camp trekking package, it’s essential to understand what’s included in the package. Generally, these packages include:

• Trekking permits: A TIMS (Trekkers' Information Management System) card and Sagarmatha National Park permit.
• Accommodation: Teahouses or lodges along the route with meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner).
• Guides and porters: Local, knowledgeable guides and porters to help carry your bags.
• Flights: Round-trip flights between Kathmandu and Lukla, which is the typical starting point for the trek.
• Transportation: Ground transportation within Kathmandu if needed.
• Meals: Most packages include meals while on the trek, but always check for exclusions.

The classic Everest Base Camp itinerary takes around 12 days, but it can be extended to 14 days depending on the pace and acclimatization needs. A typical Everest Base Camp trek itinerary looks like this:

Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Fly to Lukla, trek to Phakding
Day 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar
Day 4: Acclimatization day at Namche Bazaar
Day 5: Trek to Tengboche
Day 6: Trek to Dingboche
Day 7: Acclimatization day at Dingboche
Day 8: Trek to Lobuche
Day 9: Trek to Everest Base Camp, return to Gorak Shep
Day 10: Early morning trek to Kala Patthar, descend to Pheriche
Day 11: Trek back to Namche Bazaar
Day 12: Return to Lukla, fly back to Kathmandu
For a more leisurely pace or extra days for exploration, a 14-day Everest Base Camp trek itinerary is also available, with added days for acclimatization or trekking to nearby villages like Gokyo or Lobuche.

The EBC trek cost depends on various factors such as the trekking package, time of year, and inclusions. As a rough estimate, here’s a complete Everest Base Camp trek cost breakdown for 2025:

• Basic Package: $900 - $1,300 USD (standard trekking)
• Luxury Package: $2,000 - $4,000 USD (comfortable accommodation and services)
• Helicopter Return Package: $2,500 - $4,500 USD (including helicopter return from base camp)
• Group Package: $1,200 - $1,800 USD (shared with others)
• Private Package: $2,000 - $3,000 USD (tailored for you)

Additional costs include flights from Kathmandu to Lukla (around $180 - $250 USD), trekking permits ($40 - $50 USD), tips for guides and porters, and personal expenses such as snacks, water, and souvenirs.

Including flights from Kathmandu to Lukla, the total cost of the Everest Base Camp trek generally falls between $1,500 to $2,500 USD for a budget package. For a luxury Everest Base Camp trek, the cost can rise to $4,000 USD or more.

One of the most common questions trekkers ask is how difficult is the Everest Base Camp trek compared to Annapurna Base Camp? While both treks are challenging, the EBC trek is generally more difficult due to the higher altitudes and longer duration. Everest Base Camp trek altitude is 5,364 meters (17,598 feet), while Annapurna Base Camp sits at 4,130 meters (13,549 feet). This significant difference in elevation increases the risk of altitude sickness on the Everest trek, making it essential to acclimatize properly.
For beginners, it’s crucial to choose Everest Base Camp trekking packages for beginners with ample acclimatization days and a gradual ascent.

Some of the Everest Base Camp trek highlights include:

• Namche Bazaar: The bustling Sherpa capital and a great place to acclimatize.
• Tengboche Monastery: One of the most famous monasteries in the Khumbu region with stunning views of Everest.
• Kala Patthar: The highest point trekkers reach before descending, offering panoramic views of Everest.
• Everest Base Camp: The ultimate goal of the trek, where you can stand at the foot of the world’s highest mountain.

Other essential stops include Dingboche, Lobuche, and Pheriche, where trekkers will find teahouses for rest, food, and warmth.

The best time for Everest Base Camp trek is typically in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is clear, and the trekking trails are less affected by rain or snow. The trekking season peaks in October and November, making it ideal for stunning views.

Booking your Everest Base Camp trek can seem overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it can be a smooth process. Here’s a quick Everest Base Camp trek booking guide:

1. Choose a trusted operator: Look for a reputable company offering group packages and private trekking packages.
2. Confirm permits: Ensure that all necessary permits (TIMS and Sagarmatha National Park) are included in the package.
3. Review itineraries: Choose from 12-day or 14-day itineraries based on your availability and fitness level.
4. Check inclusions: Ensure that flights, accommodation, meals, and other essential services are included in the price.
5. Secure payments: Most companies require a deposit to confirm bookings.

For those who seek a more comfortable trek, luxury Everest Base Camp trekking packages are available. These packages include high-end lodges, private rooms, gourmet meals, and sometimes even a helicopter return service. They provide an excellent choice for trekkers who want to avoid basic teahouse conditions or simply prefer a more relaxed trekking experience.
Everest Base Camp Trek for Families with Children or Elderly Trekkers
The Everest Base Camp trek for families with children or elderly trekkers can be arranged with specialized guides and customized itineraries. Families can opt for a slower pace with more acclimatization stops, while elderly trekkers can benefit from luxury trekking packages or shorter alternatives like a trek to Kala Patthar instead of the full Everest Base Camp trek.

When deciding between Everest Base Camp trek group packages and private trekking packages, consider your preferences for privacy, pace, and social interaction. Group treks are more affordable and offer a chance to meet fellow trekkers, while private treks offer personalized service but at a higher cost.

While it’s technically possible to trek to Everest Base Camp without a guide, it is not recommended. The trek involves high altitudes, remote areas, and challenging weather conditions. A guide not only ensures safety but also helps with navigation, cultural insights, and the management of emergency situations. Everest Base Camp trek guide services are invaluable for first-time trekkers.

The Everest Base Camp trek is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that promises stunning scenery, adventure, and a sense of achievement. Whether you’re choosing a budget trek, a luxury trek with helicopter return, or a family-friendly package, proper planning and the right trekking package will ensure a smooth and memorable journey.
With this guide, you can confidently choose the best Everest Base Camp trekking package for you and prepare for an unforgettable adventure to the foot of the world’s highest mountain.

When it comes to group travel in Preston, Cabzilla Minibus Taxis provides the ideal solution for comfortable, reliable, and affordable transportation. Whether you’re organising a family outing, a corporate event, or a sightseeing tour, Cabzilla’s minibus taxis in Preston ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for everyone.
Preston, a vibrant city known for its historic landmarks, beautiful parks, and bustling events, is a popular destination for groups. Cabzilla’s wide range of minibus taxis—from 6-seaters to 16-seaters—ensures that your group can travel together in comfort and style. This guide explores Cabzilla’s minibus options, top destinations in Preston, and why Cabzilla is the preferred choice for group travel in the area.

For small groups looking to explore Preston, Cabzilla’s 6-seater taxi is an excellent choice. Whether it’s an airport transfer, a family outing, or a day trip around the city, this 6-seater taxi offers spacious seating, air conditioning, and room for luggage. Ideal for family trips and small group outings, Cabzilla’s 6-seater taxis combine comfort and affordability, ensuring a smooth and pleasant travel experience.

If you need a little extra space, Cabzilla’s 7-seater taxi is perfect for larger families or small business teams. This taxi provides additional seating and luggage room, making it ideal for day trips or corporate events. With comfortable seats, ample legroom, air conditioning, and reclining options, Cabzilla’s 7-seater taxis offer a convenient and reliable way to travel around Preston, whether for business or leisure.

For medium-sized groups, Cabzilla’s 8-seater taxi is a fantastic option. Planning a day out to [Avenham and Miller Parks]() or a visit to the Harris Museum and Art Gallery? This minibus provides ample room for passengers and luggage, making it ideal for family outings and social gatherings. With amenities like USB charging ports and Wi-Fi, Cabzilla’s 8-seater taxi keeps your group connected and comfortable throughout the journey.

Cabzilla’s 9-seater minibus is perfect for groups attending events, family gatherings, or sporting matches. It’s a popular choice for those heading to events at Deepdale Stadium (Preston North End FC) or large family gatherings. The 9-seater minibus provides spacious seating and plenty of room for luggage, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey for everyone.

If you’re planning a larger group event, such as a wedding, corporate function, or family reunion, Cabzilla’s 10-seater minibus is an excellent choice. This vehicle offers extra seating and a spacious interior, allowing everyone to travel together in comfort. Whether you’re attending a business meeting or exploring the scenic countryside surrounding Preston, Cabzilla’s 10-seater minibus provides a smooth and relaxed ride.

Cabzilla’s 11-seater minibus is perfect for big groups needing additional space for passengers and luggage. Great for corporate outings, school trips, or family events, this vehicle is well-equipped with modern amenities to make the journey enjoyable. Cabzilla’s professional drivers ensure a safe and comfortable ride, whether your group is exploring Preston or travelling further afield.

For larger groups, Cabzilla’s 12-seater minibus provides ample room for passengers and luggage, making it ideal for festivals, corporate events, or family outings. Planning a day trip to the Forest of Bowland or attending a wedding? Cabzilla’s 12-seater minibus ensures your group enjoys the journey with air conditioning, USB charging ports, and comfortable seating.

Cabzilla’s 13-seater minibus offers spacious interiors and modern amenities, making it a great option for groups attending social events, corporate functions, or family outings. With roomy seating and plenty of legroom, the 13-seater minibus is perfect for comfortable group travel, allowing everyone to stay together without sacrificing convenience.

For larger events and group tours, Cabzilla’s 14-seater minibus provides ample room for both passengers and luggage, ensuring everyone travels in comfort. Whether it’s a corporate event, a group tour, or a family gathering, this minibus is perfect for group travel in and around Preston. The 14-seater minibus offers air conditioning and ample legroom, making it ideal for a day of sightseeing or business travel.

Designed for large events such as weddings, corporate functions, or festivals, Cabzilla’s 15-seater minibus offers all the space and amenities you need for a comfortable journey. Equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and reclining seats, this minibus makes group travel easy and enjoyable. Whether it’s a family gathering, a corporate outing, or a day trip to nearby attractions, Cabzilla’s 15-seater minibus is the perfect solution.

For maximum capacity, Cabzilla’s 16-seater minibus is the ultimate solution for large group travel. Whether you’re heading to a concert, a sporting event, or a corporate retreat, this spacious vehicle has plenty of room for passengers and luggage. With features like Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, and luxury seating, Cabzilla’s 16-seater minibus ensures your group arrives comfortably and in style, making it ideal for group travel in and around Preston.