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City Showcase (All games welcome) => Mayors' Diaries => Inactive Classics => Topic started by: mrbisonm on March 08, 2009, 03:11:05 PM

Title: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 08, 2009, 03:11:05 PM



(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg11.imageshack.us%2Fimg11%2F8802%2Fdetailssilverado2d.jpg&hash=9cceeb8920e29a231bcd8cc0d1bb46aa450fbb73)



.....disappointed me when he confirmed that it would still take us at least one more hour of flight to reach our destination. Curious, as always, I couldn't resist asking him why we couldn't go fishing down there, it looks fantastic and perfect for fishing with all the lakes and ponds, and again with a smile he explained that it was impossible since landing with our Beaver Hydroplane would be almost impossible and way to dangerous. "These ponds and swamps haven't really been mapped yet", he said *and landing on these could be fatal because we don't know if the waters are deep enough or not."
While we flew on, he continued talking about the Winding River Wilderness and what it was like and explaining why no one really has come here yet, but I was already spirtually gone in thoughts and dreams about how nice it would have been to spend our two days down there.
All of sudden I saw a light a little further up close to the  big river banks, but so small that it only appeared as a tiny star that fell from the skies. This meant to me someone was there and that it was possible to go there after all. I looked over the dash, "These are probably some hikers or trappers" father explained suspecting that I was about to ask him about the light, "camping for the night. Who knows, they might even be lost?" giving me that serious look with a hidden smile.
So it is possible to go there I thought and went back to dream about this wonderland for the rest of the trip...........



I hope I picked your curiosity and hope to see you comment and come back while I start a MD here on SC4devotion for the first time. Who knows, maybe this will become another Mega CJ like NoG (Nexis of Genesis) from ST.
I'll be back later with more details.......and to continue.

mrb ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TheTeaCat on March 08, 2009, 03:20:47 PM
Piqued my interest?
you certainly have :thumbsup:

:satisfied:
TTC
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: WC_EEND on March 08, 2009, 03:25:24 PM
well, you've made me curious
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: metarvo on March 08, 2009, 03:49:54 PM
Wow, that story has a way of drawing one in.  I found myself wanting to keep on reading, even after the story had ended.  On the other hand, a picture is worth a thousand words, or so they say, so I'm looking forward to seeing what you bring to the MD table, mrb.

:thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on March 09, 2009, 02:45:08 AM
Im gona bookmark this one :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on March 09, 2009, 09:50:52 AM
Fred umm WOW!!! What more can one say lol!!!! I am more then intrigued here...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbarossaS on March 09, 2009, 10:00:57 AM
Having followed NoG, I know you're a great storyteller and I'm looking forward to what you're about to do here!

Good luck with your first MD here at SC4D!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on March 09, 2009, 10:28:36 AM
Decidedly intrigued here!  Can't wait to see what's coming up!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: art128 on March 09, 2009, 01:10:10 PM
Very promising story there Fred, a new big MD is coming..
I will be here for the first update..  :thumbsup:

Arthur.  ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 09, 2009, 06:22:09 PM
Well I'm glad I got your attention now....lol
This will be story of a family that is into real estate and city management. The Gabber family. I will slowly build up the whole region with one very large city and several smaller towns and villages that will join the city with time. The region is totally handterraformed, but the base was from an uploaded region, now hardly recognizable.
I have used all, and I mean all , existing treecontrollers, rocktextures and beaches in this region making it unbelievable versatile. The terrain and the water are the only ones that stayed the same in each tile.
The region is 14x10 medium tiles in size, has one big river, four lakes and several ponds, plus 6 smaller rivers/creeks. Also some hilly and mountainous terrain divided by two big swamps which will later be kept as a natural habitat reservation. It took me over 4 months with some 50 hours just to create this region.
The story will be told as that seven year old kid (Charlie) sees the region, slowly growing up as the region developps with him and time. Included are some interesting stories, happenings and sometimes disasters. We will meet new folks during the growth, see them born and die with time and once a medium town has developped, I will take immigrants to this region, some of you readers will become the heroes, points of interests, mayors, buissness owners and CEO's, political leaders, scientists, doctors, teachers etc etc or whatever you wish to be....... and bums. You will decide what your interest is, what you might like to become in this story and how you live your simmly life in the Winding River Wildnerness MD, but.....I will decide what happens with you in my MD, whether it is good or bad, you're all in my hands.
I have done it with 2 generations in the *Nexis of Genesis* region CJ (at ST) with success and many loved the stories, but unfortunetly the region crashed and I cannot enter many of the tiles anymore, obliging me to draw an end to NoG. Here's my second chance to rebuild another great MD story and who knows, it might be enjoying and interesting. We will also see pictures from other of my regions, since most of the people in this story live in an existing big city. I will use two other regions as we go on.
You will see many many new Nexis BATs and Lots , never been seen anywhere before, some are darn original and maybe wanted, I will upload them later.

««The fishing trip was great, I loved it although we only caught some smaller ones the first day only. My dad said that it was too early in the season to catch the big ones and he promissed to come back with me in a few weeks. We landed in the Stick's Bay of the Gould lake. Dad has been coming here to fish with his friends for many years now. A nice place, quiet with a lot of wild animals. I even saw a moose this morning, but I think my father didn't believe me when I told him.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F5602%2Fbelmontmarnight.jpg&hash=b955d1d320fdb21f047ad5c5ffe392ba227df6da)

The next morning we went back to fishing and caught nothing this time and later in the afternoon after we ate some of yesterdays fish on a campfire, we prepared to fly back home. I ask him if we would be flying over that big swamp again , the one we saw the day before yesterday on the way up here. "Of course we are Charlie, that is if we want to go back see Mom and all the others." Yeah, of course...what a stupid question.........I thought. »»

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F9076%2Fbelmontmarone.jpg&hash=9fc4599a835a96ee07bb5d680460b180039e2990)

See ya all later this week. Thanks for all the comments and interest in my MD.

mrb/Fred  ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on March 09, 2009, 07:31:06 PM
Fred I love the sea plane there and the island... BTW character wise I think that is awesome to have your readers involved with the story... About mine if you do include me would love to be in the lines for Fire/EMS  ;)  Well I guessed that would be obvious lol...


Patrick
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 09, 2009, 09:30:29 PM
Quote from: Pat on March 09, 2009, 07:31:06 PM
Fred I love the sea plane there and the island... BTW character wise I think that is awesome to have your readers involved with the story... About mine if you do include me would love to be in the lines for Fire/EMS  ;)  Well I guessed that would be obvious lol...


Patrick

lol........I didn't have any doubts about this Pat......lol
Thanks for the comment. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: dedgren on March 09, 2009, 09:46:28 PM
Fred, Nexis of Genesis was quite a ways down the road when I first showed up over at ST.  I followed it nonetheless, and spent many an enjoyable hour working my way back to the beginning.  Now, we all have a chance to be in on the ground floor- I'm sure it will be a great ride!


David
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: art128 on March 10, 2009, 05:01:49 AM
Two awesome pictures Fred, I like that lake with that seashore, it's simply awesome.
Great use of floras and trees.
Also, that plane looks excellent there, ,great touch !

Arthur/ =)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Sciurus on March 10, 2009, 05:15:39 AM
Really nice first pic, but I wait to see your cities, and how you developp it ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rooker1 on March 10, 2009, 05:24:43 AM
MrB,

Interesting enough start, even though I am not a big reader.  Your story has started off pretty good and I think I shall be back for some more.
Great pic of the seaplane.  ;)

Robin  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on March 10, 2009, 08:09:26 AM
I like!  That's an awesome shot there.  I like the extreme detailing on that beach. 
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on March 10, 2009, 10:18:17 PM
This sounds like another wonderful idea from Mr. Bisonm , who got me interested in SC4 Stories , the plot so far looks intriguing so far , I'll be following this very closely , My countries Satellite is watching above your small region as we speak  $%#Ninj2

~Corey
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CaptCity on March 10, 2009, 10:59:38 PM
Sounds grand... But what else would be expected from the creator of NoG... Looking forward to following this and see what you've got up your sleeve...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on March 11, 2009, 01:37:08 AM
I poked in and out of Nexis of Genesis back at ST. As I recall, it was going strong when I first stumbled across it back in 2005. Like David, I'm happy te be here at the start of things. From the looks of things, you're certainly off to a good start. Excellent detailing on the landscape, and I don't think I've seen that plane before. You were right when you said things would be varied. Looking forward to what's down the road.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 11, 2009, 04:20:52 AM
Thanks folks for the nice encouragements. I wasn't sure if I could start another nice and interesting MD/CJ again and make it as likable as NoG, but I guess with your help I'm on a good start. Thanks to all. And what can go wrong with a satelite watching us.
As I said before, there will be dozens of new Nexis BATs and Lots to see, and some of them will be uploaded to be shared with you.

I will have an update (the first official one) later tonight.  ;)

mrb



Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbyW on March 11, 2009, 04:34:40 AM
As one of the early inhabitants of NoG, I hope I may find a place here too. I loved NoG and am sure this will prove to be as interesting and absorbing.
If you would like your work uploading to the LEX please let me know and I will work with you to get them to the best lot/modding quality. I had a good teacher in Al ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on March 11, 2009, 05:24:29 AM
An interactice MD. That would be very interesting  &apls &apls Btw great start and nice pics too. Looking forward :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 11, 2009, 03:32:18 PM
Quote from: BarbyW on March 11, 2009, 04:34:40 AM
As one of the early inhabitants of NoG, I hope I may find a place here too. I loved NoG and am sure this will prove to be as interesting and absorbing.
If you would like your work uploading to the LEX please let me know and I will work with you to get them to the best lot/modding quality. I had a good teacher in Al ;D

Well, I'll surely be honoured again to have your character in this CJ again, will it still be Barbara White?.... ;) I'll pm you when the time has come and thanks for dropping in.
About me uploading BATs and Lots to the LEX....not sure if my BATs could qualify, looks darn difficult to get stuff uploaded here. I know that you had the best teacher around (Al) he is my hero and helped enormously with my earlier BATs and Lots. I might just ask you when the time has come :thumbsup: Thanks for the offer.
There surely will be some surprizingly nice BATs to come in this MD, all new like the hydroplane and maybe some of them will be wanted. I will get to you then BarbyW.

Nice going all, I am glad that you are visiting this MD and leave a comment, I'll promise to keep it interesting....lol
dedgren,enjoy the ride from the beginning this time.
art128, thanks, stick around you might see some of your work here. ;)
Sciurus, the city building will start soon, it should reach the 4to 5 million mark one day.
rooker1, who knows maybe this MD will convert you to a reader?....lol
Battlecat, these details are only a slight teaser, wait when you see later what I am talking about.....
Thanks kimcar for dropping in.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

««« Let's get to know the region of Winding River and its surroundings before we start actually building and get the story really going.
First of all I would like you to know that there are three different regions actually involved in this story, but we will concentrate mainly on the Winding River Wilderness Region. The other regions, Frampton and Bluebay, are already built and they will only be somewhat of a reference for the story. They also have been handterraformed like most of my regions.

This is a map that I quickly made for you to see where what is. When we talk about Frampton or Bluebay, you will know where it is situated compared to the Winding River Wilderness and elsewhere.

Bluebay is a small city of around 670,000 population at the moment and is the place where Charlie Gabber (the little fellow that went fishing with his dad) and his family live.
Frampton is a large town of 220,000 up north connected partially by highway 15 and a simple road with Bluebay. This is where the Gabber family came from.
Beecher Falls is the bigger city of 780,000 also up north further inland and this is where the Main-Office of Henry and John Gabber (Grandfather and father of little Charlie) is.

Frampton and Bluebay are on the ocean side with a slightly warmer climate because of the southern golfstream.
As you can see the Winding River Wilderness is in between these towns and cities, a big valley right in the middle of the Acian Mountain chain. It is quite interesting for many political developpers and investors for further expansions of their civilization. Also the area is just perfect to connect both the northern cities and town with the more southern Bluebay. The coastline is too ragged to build a decent transportation lines.
The Winding River, the biggest river in this eastern half of the country, comes from the deep mountains further to the west, draining the glaciers and valleys where hardly anyone lives.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F8919%2F1mapganogawrw.jpg&hash=6d5461df1e514cea83b7ec0bc740a4cc0ebdfc81)

The story started with Charlie Gabber going on a fishing trip with his dad John up north (shown in a circle on the map above) Here are several lakes and excellent fishing ponds as we have seen earlier. The best way to get there from Bluebay, where the family lives, is by a hydroplane, flying over the Winding River Wilderness and contouring the nmountains and hills as we also have seen before.
The Gabber family lives on Bergen Island, it is just a suburbs for the city of Bluebay. John and his father Henry both live on the island and work in downtown of Bluebay, some 45 minutes by car from their home. Their Main office though is in Beecher Falls, where they go once a week by airplane. There is a small airport on Bergen Island, so no problem to quickly (40 min flight) jump over to Beecher Falls and come back in the same morning. The Company has its own small jetplane and a captain.
The family comes originally from Frampton, where Grandfather Henry once was the Founder and Mayor of the city. Henry also was the founder of his corporation of Architects, City managements and Development Planners called *Gabber Mgs*. Father John and his brother Gary (uncle Gary for Charlie) is today the CEO and President of this very big international Corporation.
John Gabber married Mary Moondall (from Beecher Falls) some 18 years ago and they had 5 children, three boys and two girls. Junior John is the oldest son, now 18 years old, going to the Bluebay College and studying buissness Management. Hopes are high for father John that Junior will take over the Corporation one day. Then comes Vera, the oldest girl, she is 16 and finishing Highschool this year, very interested in becoming a veterinary. Melody-Ann is the youngest girl, only 13, and then comes Billy (William) the *roughrider* as Mom calls him, he is 10, very active in almost everything, mostly rough sports and things we shouldn't really do. There's another Billy, Charlie's dog, kinda confusing when it comes to calling them.
Finally, somewhat as an accident comes Charlie, almost 8 now, he is the dreamer, the naturloving fellow and Mom's favourite.
Father John goes hunting and fishing with his father Henry and some friends every so often and this is the beginning where he finally took along his youngest son to a fishing trip. No one else in the family is interested in fishing, so Charlie is the first to have been taken along as an experiment first. And this is where our hopefully long lasting story has started.

Here below is the Beecher Falls region, where we later get to see some details, especially the headquarters of Gabber Mgs.
Then below is the Frampton area and its big river. Later again we will visit where the Gabber family originally came from.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F5932%2F2beecherfalls.jpg&hash=957b4569bcba1efc7f9323f256e3fa04fa9f33ce)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F9192%2F3beecherfallsmapview.jpg&hash=5ca1124149f6ed09e86cdcd2d509fd358e233e78)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F3010%2F4frampton.jpg&hash=f1f3efef1a28c1e139cbcea1d8e9c04c71072069)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F2779%2F5framptonmapview.jpg&hash=50f5603706a601e6d3cd688e711603a189239101)

And this is the Bluebay region, where we will spend some time in the beginning and where the story actually starts.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F797%2F6bluebay.jpg&hash=0175a4778faf84d7d3ac867c7d8dfb6db7dd5ec4)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F3428%2F7bluebaymapview.jpg&hash=3f057febbcd6da3b8b40064ee49a17d9a29687a9)

Finally this is the Winding River Wilderness, where most of our time will be spent, building, civilizing and hopefully creating a great Metropolitain City one day with some of you readers as interacting personalilites in it and becoming a part of this story.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F156%2F8windingriverprojectreg.jpg&hash=20948b1f98b40b48ffb4a2b4fa274db1a0543373)

Now that you know where we are and what all the surroundings look like (get a good look at it/ or keep the pics as a reference whenever I will talk about them later on, I will go on with the story.....»»»

«« It was in the early sunday afternoon Dad decided to leave the fishingpond and go home. He wants to have supper at home, he says. We flew for about 30 minutes when he looked at me "Hey, there's that Winding River Wilderness again, nice ain't it?", Nice wasn't the word, it was beautiful. " It looks different" I said, not recognizing the area though from the last time. "We're about 10 kilometers west where we were yesterday. I did this on purpose, wanted you to see the biggest river in that wilderness, the Winding River." Big river that is, I thought, it's gigantic, but I liked the swamps and ponds better from the eastern half.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F2939%2F9wrw2a.jpg&hash=add32606d17b4d8fe3c2857557a9239e6bb77312)

It took us another 40 minutes or so and we landed in the Bay of Bluebay, but first Dad had to make a big airial roundtrip of the city and the bay as always. He loves the area ever since he moved here 20 years ago.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F8624%2F10bluebayhomebayview.jpg&hash=d80d52e70bd0bb38fa1ab36ce1271a13d6239d32)

Once landed we docked right in front of our home. Oh home sweet home, I thought. I missed my bed, my Mom, my dog and believe it or not, even my sisters and brothers. " You better tie that rope firmly to the deck" father said before leaving with the bags to the house, being greated crazily by the dog." We don't want our plane to swim away while we eat, now don't we?"
During supper I just had to tell everyone about our two days in the wilderness and they actually seemed to be interested. Junior John even asked Dad if he could be a part of the next trip. I love Junior as my brother, but nahhh, he is always telling me what and what not to do, just like Grandpa, and a trip with him wouldn't be so nice, I thought.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg156.imageshack.us%2Fimg156%2F9205%2F11bluebayhomeplane.jpg&hash=2934bb9e8dcc764ef7ca56be29f2b960e8ef78c5)

After supper I took my fishingrod and went to the seashore to catch myself some smaller saltwaterfish as if I didn't fish enough this weekend. »»

I will be back. Thanks for the comments. I will need two boys and one girl after the next update, two characters for this MD that will grow up with Charlie Gabber. Don't throw in your demand right away, there will be some points to discuss about first. I will talk about this in the next update.

mrb

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TheTeaCat on March 11, 2009, 05:59:53 PM
Fascinating start. Wonderful storyline with great background info too. &apls &apls
Marvelous pictures  :thumbsup:
I dipped in and out of NoG at simtrop but its great to be in at the start of this one.
I'd love to be part of the storyline at some time (whenever it suits you). 

I have a feeling this will become like a favorite book that you never want to end :D :D

regards
Derry
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Splime on March 11, 2009, 06:11:29 PM
This should be a really neat MD to follow, especially since I found it hard to get into NoG since it had progressed so much before I joined ST...

There is one thing that's bugging me though - the first image you posted in that update (the map) is a jpeg, but this sort of image with so few colors would actually look better (and have a smaller filesize) as a png. Just wanted to say that.

It is really neat how you've divided the Winding River Project into different regions.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on March 11, 2009, 06:19:48 PM
Very cool to see the overview of the area's you'll be telling this story in!  They're very beautifully terraformed.  Also your existing cities look fantastic. 
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on March 11, 2009, 06:24:04 PM
Fred wow another fantastic update and some more of great story too!!! I can see a CML coming your way along the lines of the "StoryTeller"..... BTW I love your last response to me hehee!!! Looking forward to more...


Patrick
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: pvarcoe on March 11, 2009, 06:34:30 PM
Great Start.
Loved the region shots.
Those are brave souls to have built so close to the waters edge.
Great place to park the seaplane though.
Looking forward to more.

Phil
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 11, 2009, 06:45:43 PM
TheTeaCat, just be there when I will asking for some members to join their character, it will be over several periods, and great to have you here this time from the beginning on.

Splime, I know just what you mean. I had the choice for a png or a jpg, but I chose the jpg because I thought it looks cool how it saves with changing colours a bit. Maybe next time if I want clearer pics, I will use png's. Thanks for mentioning it.

Battlecat, those are smaller cities, stay with us and hopefully you will see a bigger City than what I created in NoG. I am aiming at least 3 to 4 Million this time. Hope it will fit in the Winding River region. &idea

Pat, what's a CML? and hey....glad to you in GRV II ;)

pvarcoe
, you're right, they must be brave, especially on a seacoast bay like this, but....this is Simcity, kinda different. ;) Thanks for commenting.


mrb
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: wouanagaine on March 12, 2009, 12:32:52 AM
Freaking awesome region shots !  :thumbsup:
Is Bluebay map available ?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on March 12, 2009, 03:35:49 AM
NoG was what brought me into Simcity, ST and CJ/MD's, it was fantastic, your my "hero" :)

This is turning out to be something awesome. I cant waitq

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on March 12, 2009, 04:59:36 AM
This looks like a real interesting trip!
I am glad that I have found the guts to jump in right now.... I always hate it when I find an interesting MD/CJ and then find out that it has been going on for more than a year and that I have to read more than 50 pages just to catch up. As I had to do when I found Three Rivers Region.

So this time I am there at the right moment. Your project looks as promising as 3RR to me.
Definitely a lot to learn for me here!

Maybe I may already subscribe to a position?
You could consider to put me into the story when you need a new young architect for Gabber Msg. My name for this MD would be Franku van der Rohe.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: art128 on March 12, 2009, 05:10:15 AM
Wow -- that's really nice Fred.
All these city looks excellent my friend, also the home sweet home is pretty nice.
I'm really in love with the city of Bluebay...

Arthur.  &apls :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: metarvo on March 12, 2009, 07:02:07 AM
It's too bad that NoG had to meet an unfortunate end, but it looks like you're coming back stronger than ever, Fred.  Bluebay is absolutely beautiful, and the story is well-developed.

:thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 12, 2009, 07:54:51 AM
Wow, with comments like this how can I not continue. I am glad that WRP  (Winding River Project) is accepted by so many. I have a great and longlasting storyline in store with many new Nexis BATs that will be available afterwards.

wouanagaine
, no, the bluebay map as shown is not yet available, but will be later. It is actually a map that I downloaded from the net somewhere, but I heavily transformed it to be able to build a decent city on it. I will upload Bluebay later with credit of the original creator of the basemap that I transformed into this.

JoeST, thanks for the compliment, but being a hero is exagerated....lol ;) Hope that this will bring you as much interest as NoG.

FrankU, it is always better to join a good CJ/MD in the beginning then jumping in somewhere in the middle. When the time has come to have your character join the adventure, let me know about Franku van der Rohe (typical dutch name, btw I lived two years in Maastricht, but grew up near Aachen.), and I'll incorporate him as a young architect for Gabber Managements Inc.

art128, in love with Bluebay...lol...yeah, a nice place. Wait 'til you see the hills and valleys in the backyard and the beautiful but small downtown. ;)

metarvo, I almost fell into tears when I finally had to abandon NoG, but I still play with the region sometimes and only in certain tiles that I can open without the game crashing. Coming back stronger is probably because of all the new stuff, mods and ideas we have nowadays available. The game has changed so much that I don't even consider it as SC4 anymore but more likely like SC5, all converted by our members, modders and players.

The story will continue in a day or so, but be aware though: I have to to make the story a bit long (and maybe a little bit boring to some) in the next two updates, but this is only to well prepare the storyline foundation and the terrain for the big beginning of the Winding River Project. Don't give up, there will be better times ahead when we actually see the new region getting developped. The storybase is necessary for later happenings in every detail, we'll come back in time once we have a big city growing in the WRW (Winding River Wilderness)

Charlie will grow up with us and the region and he will be the Maincharacter for the next 50 updates or so. I think the region can easily take a hundred simyears to develop, meaning maybe two or three generations after Charlie, just like the Nexis family in NoG.

So in the nest update be prepared for a longer story, but I bet that you will be chewing on your fingernails by the end of it.  ;)

Here's a teaser......lol...  ??? %confuso

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg9.imageshack.us%2Fimg9%2F8094%2Fteaser1.jpg&hash=04805f4bcf7ea3684a021722ca635ca5b6336911)

Thanks,

mrb  ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on March 12, 2009, 07:56:30 AM
Quote from: metarvo on March 12, 2009, 07:02:07 AM
It's too bad that NoG had to meet an unfortunate end, but it looks like you're coming back stronger than ever, Fred. 

Yes! Make frequent backups, so that the region won't die a sudden death from HD crash or CTD, prop pox, seaport incompatibility or all the other bugs that bug us.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on March 12, 2009, 08:02:40 AM
Quote from: FrankU on March 12, 2009, 07:56:30 AM
Yes! Make frequent backups, so that the region won't die a sudden death from HD crash or CTD, prop pox, seaport incompatibility or all the other bugs that bug us.

And a question: are you going to play the game with a fixed set of plugins or are you going to throw in everything that is developed in the mean time and that seems appropriate?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: art128 on March 12, 2009, 09:03:05 AM
What a dense forest there Fred, nice mix of trees.

looking forward to the next update for sure !


Arthur.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbarossaS on March 12, 2009, 09:20:57 AM
Great updates there Fred. I love the Winding River Wilderness map a lot, I can see you spend a lot of time
creating it.

Looking forward to see some development over there!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: LE0 on March 12, 2009, 09:45:35 AM
This is an awesome MD and maps and detailing, do you work on this 24/7? :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 12, 2009, 10:24:19 AM
Quote from: LE0 on March 12, 2009, 09:45:35 AM
This is an awesome MD and maps and detailing, do you work on this 24/7? :)

LOL....I knew that someone would ask me that question one day or another....lol. No, I have three buissnesses to take care of also. I am a busy fellow I know, but love SC4 so much that I spend a good hour with it every second day or so. And often 2 to 4 hours on a weekend, working on this MD, creating stuff in the LE and BAT in my Bat-thread at ST, and keeping up with the new GRV II challenge that is in the Projects board of this site. Life is too short not to have some fun.

BarbarossaS, it took me many weeks to create that WRW map, glad you like it.

FrankU, u bet.....back-ups and making sure nothing won't happen with this like it happened with NoG, is my main concern. We learn with time, right? I have a special Pluginsfolder for WRW, like all the other regions, but like I said before, I have interchangable plugins also that I can add and take out at any time, or only adding them when needed. This way I can have all the farming files that exist in one citytile and then switch quickly over to the city with a plugins that is full of Hi-risers and stuff. I think that this is the best way of playing a decent game with thousands of files. (I have some 14 gb's of SC4 files total)  My base plugins folder though is only 3 gbs, all the stuff that I regularily use all the time, but when I switch to the city addon for example, I add another 2 gbs. Adding new stuff happens all the time but only after having been tested in another region (my testing or sandbox region) fairly well enough. It takes quite some good and uncommon Bats for me to upload now and these days not too many around. It also happens that I take out some older ones before adding new ones to my main plugins. BTW, new props and prop-packs/textures are a no no for me now, I'd rather redo a new BATlot with my existing props than keep on adding new props to have it ingame. I think there are enough props out these not to create new ones that only ressemble existing ones. I have a limited amount of props in my pluginsfolder of only 340 mbs. see below......

art128, so you like my trees?....lol....something unbelievable might be hidden under these.

mrb, thanks for coming. :thumbsup:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg408.imageshack.us%2Fimg408%2F8444%2Fpluginswrw.jpg&hash=79426e3ffffa881c8c1d59b75e35727ae577241b)

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on March 13, 2009, 03:29:13 AM
excellent teaser ;D

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 13, 2009, 07:20:59 AM
Since I don't have time this weekend to make the update, I will do it right now, so you will have enough time to think about it.....

«« It is Friday late afternoon and Dad told me that we'll go fishing again tomorrow morning. It was about time, waiting for almost 3 weeks for him to decide to go fishing again. " Oh....Charlie" he called out while walking to the outside door " Grandpa and Mike will come also." Who the heck is Mike? My face just lengthened  3 inches when he said Grandpa. It's not that I hate him, but he has this strange way of ...well...telling everyone what to do, even to Dad.
After supper I helped father to prepare all the stuff we needed for the two days and started packing the *Rusty Rover*, as he calls his hydroplane. It used to be Grandpa's before, I guess it must be old now too, just like Grandpa. Strange though that I saw Dad pack the tents, hm, I think we're going to stay in the tent overnight. *Are we going to fly over the winding river again?" I asked in hope for a positive answer..." You bet Sonny, we'll even have a low flight over it, see if we can find a nice spot to land and have a look around and maybe even go fishing there instead of the ol'place" he answered calmingly as if it was nothing....what?, nothing? Hey this is my dream come true since I saw the area for the first time. You can't be serious. This I couldn't believe,
" Are you sure?" I asked very lowtoned, and all Dad did is shake his head in the positive way without even looking at me. Wahooo,
Oh man, should I scream for joy now or what, I thought, but I just shut up and enjoyed the great news.
Imagine, going fishing in a place where they didn't even have any map of, wow, that is what I call an adventure.»»

So Friday night went by, Charlie went nervously to bed early to be ready and in topshape at 4 AM in the morning. Just before he climbed the stairs to his bedroom, Grandpa Henry came bulging into the house and spent the night here also and talking loud as he always does. It could be well read on Charlie's face that he didn't agree with the idea of taking along Grandpa.
The clock didn't need to ring that morning, Charlie was already up and preparing his final stuff he needed for the trip. Breakfast was short and before the horizon got lit, all three of them were on their way to the Rusty Rover.

«« I saw Dad looking always down while we flew over the Redden bay, just 10 airminutes north of our place, as if he was looking for something he lost." What are you looking for Dad?" I asked curiously. Grandpa jumped in and said " He's looking for the Allheimer's place to pick him up, didn't he tell you?" Allheimer, who's this again, I thought, " Father was talking about Mike that would come along fishing today" I said. " Yeah, Mike Allheimer.....hey, there it is." pointing downward to a little beach with some houses further back. oh my I thought, I hope it's not Grandpa coming to the backseat now. Once landed we saw Mike beside his camping gear and a nice sailboat on the beach eagerly waving at us to make sure we won't miss him. Grandpa explained that Mike is one of Pa's friend from the mainoffice in Beecher Falls.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg13.imageshack.us%2Fimg13%2F277%2F1landingbeach.jpg&hash=6aa54a2eae9c3b7a8deb82a158c27d5bb5eb3441)

But it wasn't that bad afterall. After having picked up Mr Allheimer (Mike), Grandpa sat beside me in the back and continued chatting with Pa and Mike as if I didn't exist. Just what I wanted. It took us around 40 minutes to get to the beginning of the Winding River Wilderness over the mountains. As soon as the hills rolled downwards, forests started to get denser and heavier the further we flew right into the valley.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg13.imageshack.us%2Fimg13%2F4659%2F2hills.jpg&hash=b7792736dd6fad7b38435357192ce39b076d449a)

How could someone walk through this mess I thought. Now that the sun was up, we could see for miles through that valley and not long before Dad pointed his finger towards the big swamps while calling out my name.* There's your little fishing paradise again," and downward we went, getting closer to the trees. Am I lucky or not?»»

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg13.imageshack.us%2Fimg13%2F9054%2F3swamp.jpg&hash=68dd88bf9078e7889f829ad1a4bdcd65f38e60a6)

Flying low over the wild region gave Charlie another view and openmouthed he just couldn't resist makind some fog in the backwindow with his warm breath.
The region is fantastic he thought, so vast, green and blue and so many things to see. As if the mountains and hills were guiding the river towards the sea.

The lakes and ponds must hold thousands of fish and game.
And the forest are so dense and thick, impossible to see anything under its giant canopy.

Nothing really was mapped in details yet in this region. The gouvernment decided because of the limited access to make a simple wilderness reserve with it, but with possibilities to civilize it in later years one day. The terrain is low and therefore quite easily inondated. The Winding River comes from the west, draining most of the Mountain chains and carrying a lot of water sometimes, especially in the spring. That is why a lot of swamps have formed with time, giving it the unique beauty of untouched wilderness.

To Charlie's eyes, this was indeed paradise or at least what it should look like. While flying very low over a giant pond that stretched for miles it seemed, Charlie heard his father telling Mike and Grandpa that it was impossible to land there, but he would take another look at the big river, maybe there.... Pretty sure that Charlie got seriously for a second or two when he heard this. Having seen so much yet, it is impossible not to land, that would be the end for a nice weekend for him and the end of his hopes to see the region close up.
Over the river John Gabber flew onlt a few meters above the waterlevel and everyone was looking at the river's bed to see if there's enough water to land without stumps, rocks and other debris, but the river is big and the water deep it seemed. After about 2 minutes, which seemed like 30 to Charlie, John pulled suddenly up the plane only to turn around.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg13.imageshack.us%2Fimg13%2F9084%2F4windingriver.jpg&hash=086fe078cb6ece1bcab61219f0963e274d7775c8)

«« "I saw a good spot to land back there" he screamed out while the engine was forcing the harsh turn. I couldn't believe it, we were here and we're going to land.»»

The landing went well and slowly they approached the riverbanks while Mike got out and stood on the floaters to check the waterdepth. There was a small beachlike area without too many trees that they wanted to reach and bring the plane abroad. Charlie was all eyes in every direction and didn't even realize that they were about to beach the plane.
Once the motor was shut off, Grandpa got out and Charlie just behind him almost pushing him into the sand. He was eager to set his foot on ground as if it was man's first step on the moon.
«« " Let's unload everything first" Dad told us, " and then let's go fishing a bit before lunch. It looks good here, I'm surprized." I couldn't wait to get the things out, especially my fishingrod.»»
So everyone got prepared and while Grandpa was mounting both tents, Charlie went fishing on the little creek that dumped into the river just a few meters away, while John and Mike tried their luck in the big river itself.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg13.imageshack.us%2Fimg13%2F3755%2F5planecamp.jpg&hash=67009e1315c8d5e88cb53f090a518d5e5d703edc)

The river is large here, hardly being able to distinguish things on the other side.
And it wasn't long that everyone heard Charlie screaming like crazy that he caught a big one. He caught his first freshwater trout and what a trophy that was. Quite surprized to see him having caught a big trout like this in a small creek like that, John and Mike ran over to see the monstertrout. Then.....all of sudden......, just before they reached Charlie with his catch, both stopped instantly and looked over the creek to the other side with wide open eyes.

«« When I saw Dad with his open mouth and big eyes looking over my shoulder I knew something wasn't right and I didn't like that at all. The 3 second silence gave me goosebumps and I quickly approached Dad and looked back to see what I didn't believe to see or couldn't.....
" Oh sh*t" Dad said and called Grandpa with a worrying voice. I got scared and forgot all about my trout, almost hugging father for protection...............What in the world is......»»


Well, that was another chapter of the Gabbers in the Winding River Wilderness. Their first adventure and the beginning of it all. I will be back with some more of the story......lol ;D....I guess you want to know what they all just saw, right? Hm well....me too.  &Thk/( Until next time. Have a nice weekend.

mrb ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: wouanagaine on March 13, 2009, 07:25:52 AM
You're detailling in picture is awesome  :thumbsup: I can't imagine the time it took you to build that
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: cowcorn on March 13, 2009, 08:22:45 AM
A new MD by you is a great way to put a smile on my face. It's nice to see you in action here. I look forward to more great story and always so great landscape. I can see you still have a knack for cliffhangers... I'll be there and who knows maybe take a part in it... The world always needs musicians... even if it doesn't see why!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbarossaS on March 13, 2009, 08:29:57 AM
Nice pics! You've got an eye for detail and I like that a lot  ;D

As for the story: what the hell scares the Gabbers so much! I wanna know!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on March 13, 2009, 08:51:27 AM
Very cool update.  Lovely design of the region, it truly is beautiful out there.

Also one heck of a cliffhanger.  Looking forward to the next update!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 13, 2009, 09:59:21 AM
wouanagaine, it must somewhat of a talent that I have, it took me less than 10 minutes of play to create the last scene with the tents, people and hydroplane. I just throw in the pieces and if they don't look right I start all over. Thanks for the compliment......btw, aren't you scared now to compete with me in GRV II?.....lol  ;)

cowcorn, what a pleasant surprize to see you here, haven't seen you in ages. Glad to have you again with my new MD. Are you still in the UdeS and into music?

BarbarossaS, I don' if that is scare or surprize the Gabbers are into, but it surely intrigues me too... ;) Glad you like the details, I like creating them.

Battlecat, cliffhangers were a part of my speciality with Nexis of Genesis (NoG) back at ST. So why not have them here......makes people's brain work.... :D. Nice to see you again.


I would like to add something to the story and pictures here, so everyone knows it. This is a fictional story in a fictional land with fictional regions and fictional characters. Nothing is compared to reality and any names, places or others have nothing to do with anyone, anywhere and etc. Just understand this, because in the next update there will be some historic, political and legendary statements which will nothing have to do with reality at all.
Thank you.

mrb

Edit: Oh, and tomorrow I will upload a picture of the whole scene of what happened in the last chapter of the story, but unfortunetly I was not allowed to show that particular detail. $%Grinno$%
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TheTeaCat on March 13, 2009, 11:19:24 AM
Fantastic  &apls &apls
great cliffhanger :thumbsup: superb pics :thumbsup:
I enjoyed every second of it ;D

Looking forward to the next update just to know what scared the Gabbers so much :D :D

regards
Derry
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CaptCity on March 13, 2009, 08:35:28 PM
OK, I'm hooked... On both the wonderful landscape and the cliffhanger... Just what will happen  ()what()

Looking forward to more.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on March 13, 2009, 11:37:38 PM
Fred simply amazing there!!! I cant wait to see the new pics you have promissed  ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Youcefk69 on March 14, 2009, 03:26:21 AM
Very good story, congratulations  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Simpson on March 14, 2009, 03:43:29 AM
Hi !
I'm so sorry that I missed all these updates and teasers. The region is looking superb  &apls
The teaser of the Forest is nice  :thumbsup: and the last update is incredible, I love the first picture.
I'm looking forward to the next update my friend

Take care,
David :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 14, 2009, 07:00:23 AM
Thank you all for the nice comments. Here is the Teaser picture that I promissed, so you have an overlook of the situation of the story where I stopped temporarely.
Maybe tomorrow I will have another update to the story and we'll find out what all four just saw.......uhhhh, I can sense some difficulties for the campers here....... %wrd

Have an ice weekend

mrb  ;)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg5.imageshack.us%2Fimg5%2F4503%2Friverjctsurprize.jpg&hash=2c62837ac9c217793f45f2ad072a5c797fc341ce)


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on March 14, 2009, 07:14:20 AM
Wow the river pics could give you an hall of fame in picture competition for sure  &apls &apls The amount of detail is just awesome . Great coice of mod too. As for the last pics, maybe they have to take care of some bears ... no  ;D Looking forward
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on March 14, 2009, 07:16:18 AM
hmmm a forbidden pic ooh booy, me is wondering what that could be??
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Simpson on March 14, 2009, 07:16:52 AM
Nice picture my friend, the nature is looking incredible  &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Sciurus on March 14, 2009, 12:07:56 PM
Beautiful pics! &apls

Guillaume :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CaptCity on March 14, 2009, 12:41:11 PM
What a tease... ;) Well, we know it's bigger than a breadbox, smaller than a...?

Wonderful scene of the campsite and creek...  :thumbsup: Makes me want to load up the tent and fishing gear.

Will definitely check back.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 14, 2009, 01:24:09 PM
Well thanks kimcar, but I don't think a bear could be that big, nor would the Gabbers just stared and lookat it. I don't know, but I have a slight idea what it could be, but you never know.... ;)

CaptCity, funny, but I went to a little place just like it last september up north of Amos in Québec/Canada. It was beautiful and I caught the trout of my life there too, a Speckled of 7.2 lbs and 27 inches (for those who know what I am talking about). I'm going back in late May. More or less that's where the idea of that place in the story came from.
I'll be less harsh on you all, and will release the picture without the *forbidden* zone later tonight.(and some others) I will have the time to continue the story a little bit. My wife came in sick and we cancelled our trip to the theater in Montreal this evening.

Thanks Pat, Simpson (any relation to Homer? ;)) and Sciurus for your comments.

mrb
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 14, 2009, 05:15:34 PM
So not to let you hang in there without knowing, here's my update.

.............Standing there for a full minute, everyone stared at the big rock on the other side of the creek where Charlie just caught his big trout. Grandpa was the first to say something totally stupid:  «« "How did that get here?" Pa looked at me and asked me, " How come you didn't see that? You just walked by it"...well, I didn't have an answer and we went back to staring. Finally Mike opened his mouth and said " So it is real afterall, it's not just a legend, right, or am I dreaming?" looking at grandpa as if he has completely lost in his mind. * Well, I think it is a Gottlieb Rockhut just like they show in the history books, but no one actually saw one.... I think?" Dad added. It wasn't too long that all three jumped over the creek and had a close inspection of the Giant rocky Skull with leaving me and my trout behind. I didn't know anything about this Goodleebs or whatever they said it was, but surely was eager to find out now. That big thing looked horrible»»

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg8.imageshack.us%2Fimg8%2F7258%2Fskull1g.jpg&hash=b2e05e91267c667c93fd34343f4cee3f79ebaf5c)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg8.imageshack.us%2Fimg8%2F1123%2Fskull2r.jpg&hash=ee80e284480a2b86a13950535bb8ab973311c7b6)

In the early 11th century people believed that a group of Scandinavians came to these lands for food and to settle. In Europe they called them the Gottliebs, a family that left northern Scandinavia to find a new home. Here they have found some very small and insignificient remains of rockhuts and tools from them, but way further up north and only pieces of this and that didn't make any sense and surely wasn't considered as any proof. The Gouvernment stopped the costly research on this legend a dozen years ago since no one actually could proof that they really existed. No money to spend on legends, they said.
They were supposed to have thrived for three centuries only, until the late 14th century and then all of sudden they disappeared without leaving a trace. Some say it was the aborigins who eliminated them, other said that a disease killed them all or they were taken by xtraterrestrians and so on. All legends and midnight stories they were, until today.
They lived in carved out rocks that had the appearance of a humanoid skull, this was to scare away spirits and other feared dangers. Near Beecherfalls, they found some small remains of such a hut in the 1870's, but too small to really confirm. It can be seen in the Beecher museum if you ever havve the time to stop and visit.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg8.imageshack.us%2Fimg8%2F9431%2Fskull3h.jpg&hash=ebf07ee21d30bb8f3e48cb59bb7bb512f9698fd9)

John Gabber, Mike Allheimer and Grandpa Gabber were on the other side of the creek surrounding and inspecting every detail of the big rockskull still most surprizingly fairly well intact.
«« " Charlie!" Dad shouted, " Go get my camera under the pilot's seat in Rusty Rover", the airplane as he calls it. I still had my trout in my right hand and the rod in the left. What was I am going to do with this, I thought. Leaving the rod right there on the ground and taking along my trophy, I ran towards the hydroplane, got the camera, left the trout on the floor of the airplane and closed the door being sure not to loose it. Just before I went into the creek Dad told me to wait, he will get the camera. Now what!...went through my mind »»

It took them almost an hour to inspect everything around the rock, while Charlie had enough of it after 5 minutes, he went back to his trout and then to the tents trying to figure out how to finish setting up the second one.

Nightfall was around the corner when they stopped talking about the rocky skull and Grandpa told everyone to go for a last throw of the fishing line before he prepares the supper, Charlie's trout. Meanwhile Charlie have been casting his line in every waterhole around the camping ground without any more luck, but getting discourage to fish was not on his list of weakness.

Time went by and supper was called to be ready. They all joined near the campfie that Grandpa has lit and ate a piece of that delicious trout with fried potatoes and poignons. What a meal.

Meanwhile in Bluebay a terrible accident has happened. Miss Gabber, John's wife, just ran into a pickup on her way to her mother in the little village of Binefield, only about 45 minutes from Bergen Island where the family lives. She was transported by helicopter right away to the Bluebay Hospital. Her condition is unstable and her life in danger. The oldest son of the Gabber family, John Junior has no idea where to find his father, Grandpa and brother Charlie. He thinks that they have gone to the Ripple pond where Father John always goes. He called the coast guard to find and inform them about the accident. They have two hydroplanes that they send out for the search, while the campers slowly prepare for the night

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg8.imageshack.us%2Fimg8%2F3063%2Faccidentd.jpg&hash=28f935b930f26a8523b18ad3024370336804e926)

Later the conversation about the skull started again and Charlie was about to fall over because of tireness.

«« " You know we could make a fortune with this" Mike started mumbling, " I have an idea, how about buying all the land here with partial development in mind and do as if we didn't know about the skull? Maybe there are more in this area, maybe a whole village? We could open some tourist homes and...." he was cut off by Grandpa, " What the heck are you talking about? This is our find but not ours to keep you Know? This is history, this is maybe our descendance, this is .....well just great, I think." I heard them talk and talk, but didn't quite understand what it was all about. Then it finally happened, I fell asleep right there near the fire. »»

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg8.imageshack.us%2Fimg8%2F8329%2Fcampfireb.jpg&hash=1eedc1f1bdefe2bb82bfe0ffacf3d3941273356a)

Dreaming of his trophy trout and hoping that the pics Dad took will be good, Charlie wasn't around anymore, slowly drifting into the world of no worries and total relaxation. Mike, John and his father continued talking about the idea to do something and maybe even make some profit of this situation for several hours and well deep into the night until Grandpa decided that it was time to find the sleeping bags and sleep.


Now I will not be updating for a couple of days. I have the GRV II Challenge to prepare which starts on Monday and some work to show to my farmhand that he'll be busy enough for the week. Thanks again for all these comments that I did not expect on a second MD/CJ of mine. It is appreciated and hopefully you liked today's update as much as I had fun doing and writing it.

mrb ;)

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nerdly_dood on March 14, 2009, 05:51:06 PM
This certainly is a different style of MD! I'd like to see where this goes...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on March 14, 2009, 10:58:55 PM
I'm certainly going to follow this one, too!  Great start!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on March 14, 2009, 11:29:18 PM
ooo Fred I am captive here!!! I love that Skull!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CaptCity on March 15, 2009, 12:08:42 AM
Of course, a Giant Gottlieb Skull... I should've known... Wait, just what is a Giant Gottlieb Skull, and does it connect to Miss Gabber's accident (sorry to hear about that)?

I'll certainly be back to find out. Really like the night shot with the campfire. Brings out the remoteness of the situation.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbarossaS on March 15, 2009, 02:05:26 AM
Once again you prove you're an excellent storyteller, Fred.
I really like your style of writing!

And as for the pics:  :o :o
Very nice!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TheTeaCat on March 15, 2009, 02:49:54 AM
Fantastic &apls &apls

I had imagined all kinds of things as to what it would be but not a giant skull  $%Grinno$% $%Grinno$%
Wonderful pics too.
The nighttime shot of camp really does feel remote  :thumbsup:

Hope Mrs Gabber makes a speedy recovery ;)

till the next time

Derry
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Sciurus on March 15, 2009, 02:53:06 AM
Beautiful pics :thumbsup:

Guillaume
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on March 15, 2009, 06:59:28 AM
The story is really good to read and the pictures are way beyond everything EA could have dreamed of when they released SC4. Somehow I tend to forget what the C in the name of the game means....

I'll follow your project closely.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on March 15, 2009, 08:29:59 AM
The giant skull is certainly an unexpected development.  Neat story about why it's there. 

Actually the core concept of the early settlers that have dissapeared reminds me a bit of the real world L'Anse-aux-Meadows settlement in Newfoundland.  Very cool all around!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on March 16, 2009, 08:02:11 AM
I see the Gabber family bought the plane from the Polish military. :P
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 16, 2009, 09:58:33 AM
nerdly_dood, CabraBuitre, Pat,  glad that you have adopted this MD, thanks.

CaptCity
, no it's got nothing to do with Mrs Gabber's accident. The rocky skulls used to be the homes of the Gottliebs, hollow inside , the families had warmth and protection.

BarbarossaS, Sciurus  thanks.

TheTeaCat, glad you like the remoteness of the picture, I really tried hard for it to look as if it was faaaaar away from civ. Glad it worked out.

FrankU, if I remember right the C stand for City, but I could be wrong..... ;)

Battlecat, you're right, the basic idea came from the early viking settlements in Newfoundland.

NASCAR_Guy, lol...yeah, it was bought on a public auction in Beecherfalls a couple of years ago. ;)

I will be back later this week. The story will continue with the beginning of the Winding River Project. I will inform you what the decision was and how the decision was put onto paper and into action. We will see some pictures of the big City of Beecher Falls and Frampton, the main Office of Gabber Mgs Inc and some of the Government. And of course you will have the honor to be the first to actually see the first invasion of the Wilderness with some never seen detailed new Nexis Bats and props. The construction of the biggest Project in the history of simland is about to begin. It will make the Gabber family from rich to extremely rich, but many tears and blood will be shed before.
Make sure to be there before the end of this week. ;)

Now I need three (3) people to have their characters incorporated into my story, 2 boys and 1 girl character are needed. These will be the ones that will be growing up with Charlie in the next 10 years to come. Make sure that you will be still here during the year, otherwise your character might disappear, die or just linger away with time. As long as you leave a comment here and there and proving me that you're still around during the time of this CJ, I will continue with your character in the story.

Just tell me why I should take your character now and I will choose the ones on next sunday suited best to the story I have in mind. I want to know their ambitions and expectations and their job  later in life. They will start off as kids in the age of 8 to 12 years old. Once chosen, I will then contact you (PM) to get more detailed info.

Don't worry, there will be many more characters to come, so come back if not chosen at a later time. Thanks.


Some preview Pics of the the two towns we'll visit next time.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg214.imageshack.us%2Fimg214%2F1372%2Fbeecherfallsregionalpic.jpg&hash=89e2294ab387758e71feee8f7aadf403c9f22756)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg214.imageshack.us%2Fimg214%2F6800%2Fframptonregionalpic.jpg&hash=34673570fcb3fc0ab7522ae71ddca56f3423865f)


mrb


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbarossaS on March 16, 2009, 10:25:23 AM
Nice teaser pics. I'd love to be a part of the story, but just not right away.
For the later characters I'll definitely sign up  ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on March 17, 2009, 09:33:55 AM
That's what I love about your building Style Mr B. you can never tell where a city begAINS AND ENDS. :thumbsup:

*gah stupid caps lock* ::)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CaptCity on March 17, 2009, 07:24:10 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on March 16, 2009, 09:58:33 AM
CaptCity, no it's got nothing to do with Mrs Gabber's accident...

OK, I thought maybe we were headed to something like a para-normal or an 'out-of-this-world' experience...  ()borg() ...  ;)

Looking forward to more...

-CaptCity
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 17, 2009, 09:11:03 PM
CaptCity, I thought you were...... ;)
BarbarossaS, whenever you're ready to have your character join...
NASCAR_Guy, big fingers like me? (*gah stupid caps lock*)...lol


mrb
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on March 17, 2009, 11:38:10 PM
Wow, so much had happened since I last commented, I hardly know where to begin. Let me just say, your nature shots are amazing, and the story is developing nicely. I'll be interested to see where it goes. In the meantime, good luck with the GRV competition. I'm not sure I could devote the time to it this time around (I'd love to do it otherwise, but I'd hate to miss deadlines and all), but certainly next time. Great works you have going here.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on March 18, 2009, 07:30:07 AM
oh, the story is great :)

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on March 18, 2009, 07:12:20 PM
 &ops Gee i feel stupid with my bear  ;D . I didn`t think about the size before answering, but a skull was the last thing that i will think about. Great one and great story too  :thumbsup: &apls &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 19, 2009, 05:24:04 AM
Thank you all for dropping in and leaving a note. Always appreciated to hear from you.


««Next morning Charlie was already down at the creek fishing before Grandpa, John and Mike woke up, and it wasn't early since they spent most of night talking about the development project of this area. Again this morning during breakfast, they had some talk about it.

I heard Grandpa say, " I'm in, spending a couple of millions at my age won't change anything anyways, let's do it", Mike couldn't resist answering, " When the old man says it's ok, then we should listen, John." while looking at John with eagerness.
I think Pa and Grandpa will buy some land here, that'll be great, We will have a weekend home and can come fishing every weekend I thought. Maybe a dream come true? »»

In the early afternoon that day, the Chiefsurgeon of the Bluebay General Hospital announced the improvement of Ms Gabber to her children and brother. Out of danger she finally was. Because of the broken ribs some parts of her lung were damaged, but now the internal bleeding is under total control. What a relief that was for the familly who spent the whole night in the hospital. The Coastguard came back without success of having found John Gabber and his plane. Understandable, they didn't know where the anglers went and the planes were searching in the wrong area.

Once packed up after having caught enough smaller and medium sized trout to partially fill the cooler, the Gabbers got ready to leave and started putting the hydroplane back into the water, when all of sudden Mike started yelling that he found another skull, while pushing Rusty Rover out into deeper water.
Yes, one more skullhut, this time in the water just about where the creek enters the river.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg6.imageshack.us%2Fimg6%2F4500%2F1skullinwater.jpg&hash=846572c5f418d0692c32a24d51b149094869cc96)

«« "Funny, I was fishing just beside it this morning for an hour," Mike said, "and I thought it was a big rock because the frontpart is towards the river thatI didn't see it". I had to see this too and yes, another skull, but in less nice condition as the one on the rockledge, grown over with moss and broken parts. Now I got interested in this too, maybe there are many more if we could look around more. But Dad had to go saying, " We'll be back soon I think, no time to go searching the whole valley now." »»

So off they went making a full turn around the riverbend to have a detailed look at the region for the last time today.

«« " You see the hills with the redwood trees there, John?" yelled Mike, " Imagine if that belongs to us, there's a lot of money in these woods, they're all never been cut before. I am sure if the Corporation buys the land, I will be able to manage the whole region. You know that I'm one of your best Project Managers anyways," looking up at John as if he was asking. " I know Mike, listen, " a moment of silence, " I will put the Corporation's advisors together tomorrow in the Mainoffice in Beecher Falls and we'll discuss the matter seriously. How does that sound, Mike?", " That's all I ask for John, thanks," Mike added »»

And with this said the plane went into the direction of Bluebay, flying over a different swamp this time, when Mike started screaming again.
«« " Hey look down there....there is  something...near that rock that leads into the water....it's a .....plane?" almost confused he looked at John and Grandpa and the plane went immediately down in a semi circle to have a good and close look at this.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg6.imageshack.us%2Fimg6%2F5014%2F2wrwplaneinwaterhigh.jpg&hash=32894d07df49b5b780b43990b6c57b4edebcc511)

Yes, it was a plane as if crashed into the water. " Darn" John said, "haven't seen one of those fighterplanes around for 10 years or so, since the last war."  

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg6.imageshack.us%2Fimg6%2F8314%2F3wrwplaneinwaterclose1.jpg&hash=9143db2a0520b2fb6950f0e0d0de2e433a80b311)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg6.imageshack.us%2Fimg6%2F8909%2F4wrwplaneinwaterclose2.jpg&hash=d8c2f5d005b85de8fa196c4ef820383ff1533c6d)

Grandpa added, " looks like it's been there for quite awhile, it's rusted through on the body." I wanted to see and almost pushed Grandpa out of the window, if it wasn't closed. " this is funny", Mike said, " so many things in only 24 hrs. I feel like having discovered a complete new world."»»

John nodded concentrated and started to pull up the nose of the plane to take the route home this time.


I am pretty busy with the GRV II Challenge at the moment, trying to make ends meet, so I will be a little slower to update this CJ/MD. Hoppe you liked the story and pictures anyways.

mrb
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: metarvo on March 19, 2009, 05:44:38 AM
The appearance of these skulls, while seeming unusual to me at first, has combined with the storyline to make an interesting read.  I wonder what kind of backstory is connected to the rusty, old plane?  The pictures are also done very well, Fred.  I can tell that some time and effort went into that lake.  Nice work!

&apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbarossaS on March 19, 2009, 05:55:24 AM
How can we not like the story and the pics, there great!
I think you're creating a whole new standard here  :thumbsup:

And take as much time as you need to make the next updates, if they're
all as good as the last ones, I don't think anyone will mind  ;)

Stijn
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on March 19, 2009, 08:17:45 AM
A lot of interesting stuff in a very small neighborhood already.  Beautiful region, love the terraforming. 
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on March 19, 2009, 12:30:28 PM
Love the map Freddie.


BTW I am interested in purchasing a large amount of land, ae you interested?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 19, 2009, 01:47:58 PM
Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on March 19, 2009, 12:30:28 PM
Love the map Freddie.


BTW I am interested in purchasing a large amount of land, ae you interested?

The government will not sell any swampy land. The flatlands are about tbe sold to the Gabbers. There are some parts left. Choose one, give me a good reason why.

Pm me a name of character, where he/she lives, Company's name (see map of surrounding cities), where the Company is, a story behind it and what they do/manufacture. Also some details of the fellow that buys the land, age, sexe, married or not, children, etc.
Then decide the number you would like and tell me what you want to do with it in the future , then I talk to the Governor of the region and see what we can do. ;)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww8.zippyshare.com%2Fthumb%2F89029958%2Ffile.html&hash=dc73e9b5daf444cdb6e2b64769986dfea2cde6a4)
http://www8.zippyshare.com/v/89029958/file.html


mrb
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 20, 2009, 10:29:46 AM
I hope you will like the next updates, because I have put a lot of work into this, creating 62 new BATs and LOTs only for the next 4 updates....oufff, and here's what it looks like. This is only a teaser and contains only about a dozen or so new Nexis BATs/Lots. The story will be hot too. Interested?

To Later this weekend maybe, if I can find the time.... ;)

mrb

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg5.imageshack.us%2Fimg5%2F5705%2Fgrasslaketeaser.jpg&hash=80d4f5b57a753d91f9b30a0ae168008ba3077df1)

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on March 20, 2009, 12:13:36 PM
 &apls &apls I just can`t take my eyes off of your pics, because i really like them. very good layout and scenery that you have done my frienf. and as for the war plane in the water , conclude that you got a great imagination . Looking forard :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on March 20, 2009, 01:12:38 PM
Very nice little bit you've put together there Fred. I've seen a few tries at lumber camps (and tried a few myself) and this is one of the best. It looks like operations are just getting started. I'd say your effort was worth it. Curious to know how they will get the logs to market (because I happen to know an investor with a little bit of capital who is interested in a railroading venture... just needs the right opportunity). Looking forward to seeing where the story goes from here. Things seem to be going well so far.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbarossaS on March 20, 2009, 03:05:53 PM
Looking very good Fred  :thumbsup:
I'm staying tuned in this weekend, in case you'll find the time for
more fantastic updates  ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on March 20, 2009, 05:27:58 PM
fred where do you get your time from....
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 20, 2009, 06:15:52 PM
Quote from: mightygoose on March 20, 2009, 05:27:58 PM
fred where do you get your time from....

......don't know, yet.....lol....having less sleep, that's for sure. &Thk/(

kimcar, imagination I got tons.....lol, thanks
threestooges, I live in a wooded area in north-eastern Canada/Quebec and logging is a part of the region here, I see it everyday, even on my own land. I love these scenes and since peg did not make enough Logger's BAT's I just had to do some more myself.
**I happen to know an investor with a little bit of capital who is interested in a railroading venture**...is that what you would like as a character in this MD/CJ? Whenever you're ready let me know. The Gabbers are looking for someone to buy or transport the logs.
BarbarossaS, can't promiss it, but it looks like I'll have the time tomorrow night or on sunday afternoon to bring the next update.


Hey thanks all, for dropping on and say Hi....  :thumbsup:

Fred/mrb
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CaptCity on March 20, 2009, 08:46:08 PM
Wonderfully realistic access road there, mrb... And "creating 62 new BATs and LOTs only for the next 4 updates"...
...can anyone say 'workhorse'?  %BUd%

Looking forward to what else comes out of that imagination of yours, and the next segment of the 'hot' story.
I'm sure we'll all be talking about it!  ()meeting()
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on March 20, 2009, 08:50:58 PM
Fred another fantastic update here wow!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on March 20, 2009, 08:55:30 PM
Yeah, I've looked a bit at those lumber lots, but haven't done much with them yet. I probably should given that I have that sawmill by (I think) onlyplace4, but no visible harvesting equipment. As for a character, well, I had intended to wait and see if you wanted me for something, but since I have the chance to choose, the opportunity to run the rails is a tough one to pass up. You say "whenever [I'm] ready," what all would I have to do?
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: meinhosen on March 20, 2009, 09:19:28 PM
I really need to say that you ought to think about putting your city journals/mayor's diaries together into a graphic novel.  Your stories have always been a interesting and good distraction for me, but the scenery (especially here) is in a league of its own.  I think I'm going to have to go and mark this thread so I don't miss any updates.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on March 21, 2009, 04:00:21 AM
oh thats just... *DRUUUUUUUUUUUUULE*

:) Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TheTeaCat on March 21, 2009, 04:19:26 AM
Well now that was certainly worth the cuppa I brewed just before I sat to to read this :D :D

What an enjoyable breakfast treat I had &apls &apls
What amazes me is how much you can get done and so quickly.
And creating 62 lots and bats just for 4 updates  :o :o Incredible &apls

looking forward to the next installment :thumbsup:
regards

Derry
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 21, 2009, 08:54:41 PM
Amazing, so many nice replies, who would have thought of this. I am flattered. :satisfied:

CaptCity, those 62 BATS are all small and mostly for the logging and construction scenes that will come in the next two updates, starting after this one below.

Pat, thanks for coming again

threestooges, when ever you're ready , just pm me and I'll get back to you with the details I need to know. Btw, you can join your character now or jump in later.

I still need three characters that  start off as kids in the same age as Charlie and as his friends, 2 Boys and 1 Girl. Make sure that you'll be around when joining your character, otherwise I will let him die if I don't hear from you within a month or so.
These 3 characters I have big plans for them.........big.

meinhosen, glad you bookmarked this MD, to me that means you like it . ;)

JoeST, wait 'till you see the rest....lol

TheTeaCat , so much so quickly.....I'm up all night....lol ;)




Now that they saw that it was a crashed plane in the swamps, they continued the route home talking about their two new finds. They soon reached the Bluebay area and down first to drop of Mike at his place and then like always, make the final big circle around the bay , and finally land near their house.  

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg207.imageshack.us%2Fimg207%2F7821%2F1abluebayoverflight2x.jpg&hash=1aa3e43ac9b5f46d2b87e78b7f0b97da37ad9592)

Vera, the oldest girl, was waving on the beach as if there was no tomorrow and John got worried for a minute seeing her jumping like this on the pebbles. The motor was still running when Vera started yelling but no way John could understand a word and pointed Vera to stand aside and wait until the plane came to a total stop. Finally the motor shutt off and he could Vera yelling everything that hapeened in one breath and a half. John didn't understand a thing but got the message of his wife being hurt and being in the hospital.
Grandpa told John to go right away while he will take care of tying the plane and the rest. Within a second John, Vera and Charlie who was already in tears ran to the house and got into their car to head towards the hospital, while Vera was telling all the details on the way there and Charlie cried as if his mother already died. It started to get dark when they reached the hospital.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg207.imageshack.us%2Fimg207%2F8162%2F1bluebayhospitalnitey.jpg&hash=03b515bc496ff00ae61382de38419cd73223deec)

Luckily everything was under control and there was more confusion and fear than anything else. Mary Moondall was awake when they arrived and John was surprized to even see his brother Gary there.

«« " Well, you weren't here and no one knew where you were, even the coastguard were looking for ya and someone had to take care of the medical decisions", Uncle Gary told father who doesn't really have a good relationship with his brother, " Hope you're not telling me that it is my fault now" father answered with a harsher and dry voice, " you weren't even there when sister died." Oh yeah.....I remember that incident very well when aunt lisa died. She died of cancer only 2 years ago and Dad wanted the whole family together when she was leaving for eternity. Uncle Gary never showed up, not even for her burrial. He had his reasons he said but never detailed them out.
When I saw Mom I wanted to jump on her, but father somehow caught my arm in midair and stopped me before doing the dumb gesture. With eyes all wet and drowny, I couldn't even see all of her in the bed, but I was glad to hear her voice telling us that she scrapped the convertable. " Forget the darn car," John said, " Glad to see you're still alive, what were you trying to do? Can't I leave you alone anymore?"»»

Later that evening the Surgeon explained that everything was running smoothly and that probably in two weeks or so, Mary may go home. What a relief for the whole family. It looked worse than it was.
Early next morning John called his brother Gary, the president of the Construction department of the Corporation, excused himself to have brought up the subject of their sister again and told him that an important meeting was to be held in the Mainoffice at 13:30 hrs and to make sure to be there.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg207.imageshack.us%2Fimg207%2F5373%2F2beecherdowntownv32b.jpg&hash=b0fd42483d4a8b60a6cffa45593bcd6d48311241)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg207.imageshack.us%2Fimg207%2F2207%2F3beecherdowntownv3.jpg&hash=8ef6ea0d1d394e7aba2af92d4ff82af705d53e73)

That day, the kids didn't go to school, but went to the hospital again with Henry's wife, their Grandmother.
John, Mike, the advisors and Gary were on time for the meeting and what a meeting it was. It wasn't before 16:30 hrs when the first members left the meeting and it seemed that everything was finalized, since their lawers and notaries were invited to be there tomorrow morning in John Gabber's office.

While we are in Beecherfalls, let's have a small tour of it, just to get to know it better. Beecherfalls is where the Mainoffice of the Gabber's Managements Inc is. It is the biggest city in the vast region, but not the busiest one. Connected by the Elmriver with the harbour town of Frampton, it's downtown is almost entirely build on one side of the river right in the middle of a gerat agricultural area, therefore it has that rural look sometimes while being a city. Beecherfalls almost has no industry , leaving that to Frampton which is very industrial.

A good two weeks went by and Mary was back home again, getting treated like a queen. John left the same day when she returned home, to the Regional Administration Office in Frampton to meet his notary and lawyer for the last time and finally get the transfer of the land that the Corporation bought form the federal Government signed. It was a big part of the Winding River Wilderness without touching any of the swampy lands around. The deal was signed, the check was handed over and hands were shaken. At the same time, one of his neighbors, Tony Racsan, and a good friend of grandpa Henry was in the office also and had bought some land for his Company, Kent Engineering Company, in the Winding River Wilderness. Tony is the head of one of the 10 richest families in the region, maybe even richer than the Gabbers. I guess it was time for the Gabbers to decide to get going, many other Companies started buying off the valley in pieces.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg207.imageshack.us%2Fimg207%2F3884%2F4parcel44.jpg&hash=469518c6c1065a9de2e4d74e65c0e46745c15ac4)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg207.imageshack.us%2Fimg207%2F2066%2F5framptonregionaloffice.jpg&hash=f24f88ea8e6c634306778a2e5d4c57c033fa15cb)

Let's now have a small look around the original place where the Gabbers came from. Frampton is at the end of the mighty Elmriver and very close to the sea. It has the harbour and a very intensive industrial influence. Extremely widespred is the city on both riversides. This below is the center of the city, under moist clouds almost all the time because of the nearby sea. You can slightly see the industries on the riverbanks on the left side of highway 30.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg207.imageshack.us%2Fimg207%2F2769%2F6framptonv1fog.jpg&hash=4874c2c41e3ada0ec5409a2886c60889063056c7)

Henry Gabber was born in this city, grew up in a poor neighborhood and slowly started his buissness during the last war. John also was born here and partially grew up in the neighborhood you see the picture of below. After the war,Henry made his fortune and moved to Bluebay with his two sons, John, Gary and his deceased daughter Lisa, when they all still were teenagers.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg207.imageshack.us%2Fimg207%2F2379%2F7framptonvieuxquartier.jpg&hash=1b5420b103b1a5993383aaab5f4c42e222a7fc47)

Today Frampton is the most growing community in the east and has all the potentials to grow bigger than Beecherfalls within the next decade. Construction is everywhere and who do you think is on top of managing all that? Yeah, you're right, it's the Gabber Mgs.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg207.imageshack.us%2Fimg207%2F575%2F8framptondowntown.jpg&hash=a5fb22fe35d4dba5ce474d040e67d5876ef2a62f)

Now poorer of a few million of Simoleons, John Gabber went to see the Transportation office to offer the deal of his Corporation building a connection of Highway 15 from Bluebay with Highway 30 in Fampton. A project that will take a a whole year to analyse and another three or four years to realize. (see the pink line in the map below) I guess he wants his investment to make profits already.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg207.imageshack.us%2Fimg207%2F5153%2F9framptongovernmentoffi.jpg&hash=3bf7647df20c21166fdbac7df9c43d44b556b4f7)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg207.imageshack.us%2Fimg207%2F3849%2F10mapganogawrwnewhighwa.png&hash=cf36ee275303499ad04bfa625d875b9150e41a40)

Click on the link below to get a big view in paint or irfanview of all the details of WrW region that has been seen or planned sofar.

11map region sc4
http://img207.imageshack.us/my.php?image=windingriverprojectphas.jpg

Again the deal was accepted to study by the federal Government.
Six Months later the construction of a gravel road leading over the hills and mountains towards the Winding River was undertaken, a task that Mike Allheimer will manage together with Gary Gabber. Over two hundred workers, architects, Loggers, heavy machinery drivers etc were hired for this project, first deciding where to wind the roads through the mountains and then start logging out the line to finally bulldoze a nice road down to the other side of the valley.

We will have a look at this the next time, where the Winding River Project really starts to show. Hope you again enjoyed this period of the MD. Thanks for commenting and following the story. Have fun....

mrb
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CaptCity on March 21, 2009, 10:58:12 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on March 21, 2009, 08:54:41 PM
CaptCity, those 62 BATS are all small and mostly for the logging and construction scenes that will come in the next two updates...

Yes, but it's still 62  :o  Can't wait to see how you use them. Sounds like things are revving up...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbarossaS on March 22, 2009, 02:11:00 AM
Yes! Another update  ;D
Love how the story evolves, and glad to have some backgroundinfo on
the other region that plays a part in this MD.
And yet again, I love the pictures, makes me feel tiny at citybuilding  :P

Keep up the good work, Fred  &apls &apls

Stijn
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 22, 2009, 09:04:01 AM
I know that 62 BATs for the next updates sound impossible and incredible, but they are only small props. Just to give you all an idea what some of them look like, I included a picture with some of my 62 BATs for the next 4 updates. In the first picture you can see already 8 new Nexis BATs and in the second one are 6 more, I think.
At the same time this will give you an apertizer of what's up ahead (as if you don't have enough previews already) , but it will take some time.
Have you all a nice weekend, or what's left of it.

Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg19.imageshack.us%2Fimg19%2F359%2Fgrasslake1.jpg&hash=e6fa8f602aad822820cf8ae1e3abb7c8059a7f09)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg19.imageshack.us%2Fimg19%2F3884%2Fgrasslake2.jpg&hash=e524cb2749914342716a58236e3e8b77dbfe7087)



Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on March 22, 2009, 10:09:31 AM
That`s an avantage to have the skill for batting, because like your`s you can do more realistic MD. Excellent work once again.  &apls &apls &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: urban on March 22, 2009, 12:20:35 PM
Wow
Fred, that's amazing stuff.
I really have to check this MD from it's very beginning :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Jmouse on March 22, 2009, 01:37:23 PM
Great scenes, Fred. I love the rustic areas and hope to get better at creating them myself someday. Your work is just beautiful and I admire your eye for detail.

Later...

Joan
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rdrdrdrd on March 22, 2009, 02:07:27 PM
can' wait
btw, have you seen the new PEGPROD stuff, over at simpeg.com , lots of logging and small town stuff
(ingore that link it is autoimatic)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 22, 2009, 02:16:59 PM
 kimcar, Yeah, it is I guess..... ;)
urban, if you want to understand what is going to happen in the story, you better start from the beginning while it is still  small and young.
Jmouse, thanks.
rdrdrdrd, yeah, I've seen and I also have downloaded some which will be seen together with my stuff, but it is limited somewhat and somehow a little out of scale and not working properly together with my terrainmods. I have made, imo, better detailed and more modern stuff for my personal use.

Thanks for dropping in folks. ;)

Fred

EDIT: Oupss, I just realized, this MD is in another category now....hmm....
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbyW on March 22, 2009, 02:24:48 PM
Fred, if you would like to send me the models of your 64 props I will happily make them into a pack for you and also make some Mayor Mode Ploppables for you.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on March 22, 2009, 03:25:36 PM
Fred (and Barby too) if you're interested in making that pack, I'd certainly have a use for it. As I mentioned before (and these pics just reiinforce it) you did a great job on these things.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Livin in Sim on March 22, 2009, 05:06:21 PM
Hi, Fred,

This is quite the rip roaring story, and I enjoy the point of view of young Charlie.  I never was able to have enough time to read the storyline of NoG, so it's nice to be here at the small and young start.  It's interesting to see your cities rising from the wilderness, and how they will grow, along with the entry into the uncharted area.  I wonder what adventures they will encounter there?  Your landscape is up to your usual caliber, especially the detailed terraforming of the river with all of its inlets and backwaters.  I do like the scale of your props.  They're nice and detailed, particularly the timber.

I'll be following this and GRVII.
Bye for now.
--Liv
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 22, 2009, 07:41:25 PM
threestooges,  Thank you all for the nice comments, glad you like my sandbox stuff....lol
Livin in Sim, welcome to my CJ and glad you could make it from the beginning this time ;) and hey, thanks for those nice comments.

Quote from: BarbyW on March 22, 2009, 02:24:48 PM
Fred, if you would like to send me the models of your 64 props I will happily make them into a pack for you and also make some Mayor Mode Ploppables for you.

Wow, thanks for the offer. You can be sure that I will send several of these (the best) to you to make a Pack (or two). That would be really so cooool. Also I have problems understanding the Mayor plop thing tutorial and you came just in time. These plops I have for the Mayor mode are not yet finished in gmax, but they should be ready in a week or so.
The other plops you see on my pics are 1x1 lots with props and unvisible textures working just fine for me, so I think they're good, many are my BATs, but also some are Maxis and others (Gascooker, jestarr etc). There are some Bats that I have to modify and re-scale first, like the woodpiles for example on the picture with the foundation (on the right).

So give me a week or two and *lotsa BATs* you will receive.....lol. Thanks again.
By then I will have most of them shown in my CJ/MD also. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on March 22, 2009, 09:30:43 PM
OMG Fred I had just fainted and gone to heaven!!! You are teasing the heck outta me and I love what you are doing here with all these wonderful little props and making such a scene!! I take it the boats that we have seen and the crashed ww2 plane are yours??
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 23, 2009, 06:23:21 AM
Quote from: Pat on March 22, 2009, 09:30:43 PM
OMG Fred I had just fainted and gone to heaven!!! You are teasing the heck outta me and I love what you are doing here with all these wonderful little props and making such a scene!! I take it the boats that we have seen and the crashed ww2 plane are yours??

Now don't exagerate we need you down here and not in heaven. ;)
Yes, the planes, some boats and ships (yet to come) a dozen or two of small logging and road construction props (still to see yet), a new few weekend "Villas" for the Gabber family and others (not seen yet either), other homes and many buildings that I started BATting long time ago and only now finished, some different vehicules (Jeeps and Hummers) and a lot of small things too various to mention.

My gmax got hot working hard last week..... ;) (have to change the coil and sparkplugs now)  but these are mostly small things, but somehow needed for my story, and they were fairly easy and fast to create.  There are 62 props and BATs and not 64 I must add, including some 25 to 30 Lots with already existing props from other BATters like vehicules, machinery, sims etc, well everything to recreate an excellent road construction scene. BarbyW had a wonderful idea and offered herself to make a Pack with these props, which I surely will as soon as I have worked out all the minor adjustements, mostly re-sizing and retexturing some of them.

I suppose they will end up on the LEX one day for you to help building your own road-construction scenes.

Thanks again to all for all the kind words and stay tuned, I will have the Winding River region invasion ready in a couple of days with the first road entering the wilderness.
Listen, little Charlie will have a ball fishing in all these little newly found and discovered ponds, lakes and creeks.......and maybe......just maybe.... :shocked2:

Have a nice week

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on March 24, 2009, 09:58:43 AM
Hey Frederic, Would it be possible to buoild east of land I bought?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on March 24, 2009, 10:38:30 AM
That's an excellent mix of props and stuff you've already shown there.  I can think of several uses for what you've shown already.  I'm certainly looking forward to seeing what's coming up next here! 
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on March 24, 2009, 03:34:17 PM
fantastic shots, those props look very realistic fred, cannot wait for more :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on March 26, 2009, 12:53:37 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on March 16, 2009, 09:58:33 AM
FrankU, if I remember right the C stand for City, but I could be wrong..... ;)


No! Now I remember! It sprang up in my mind: the C stands for Countryside.
Thanks Nexis! I won't forget again.

700 th post!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on March 27, 2009, 07:07:59 AM
Really great work on "The Winding River Project" there!!!! All pictures are looking really fantastic!
Beautiful updates!! :thumbsup: Nice work on your project/ MD!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 28, 2009, 09:52:26 AM
Again, thanks for the comments and I' m glad you like my prop/lots. More below..... ;)
Now let's continue the story of our little friend Charlie.



A few months have passed and summer is almost over. Charlie just turned 8 years old. Things in the Winding River Wilderness started to move, they were finally able to build an access road over the mountains and started logging and clearing the land for a future route throught the valley on both sides. Once the route is done, access roads towards where the highway will be will be build and then the construction of Highway 30 itself will begin.

Right now Highway 30 stops just outside of the Bluebay municipality in a little town called Sandom Center and I'm not sure if we could call it a town yet.  


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F9859%2F1sandomhighway.jpg&hash=c7733b45b3d1a9433435e0e6e5e11dd46349ec81)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F7480%2F2sandomregionview.jpg&hash=4604cb010b08225ff41559e717fd7d628b3834b7)

From here the highway was about to follow the contours of the sea, but high and loose rocky cliffs made it impossible and that was the main reason for the highway project to stop in Sandom....until the Gabbers had the idea (well, Mike that is) to detour the highway through the valley of the Winding River Wilderness. And that is where we are right now, at the beginning of it all.
The Minister of transports finally gave the green lights to manage the construction of Highway 30 to the Gabber family and some other Companies like Hemlock Road Construction. Even the rails are about to sign a deal to get their lines over the valley with a railbuilding company from the Capitol out in the west.
Economically this will be good for the regions of Bluebay, Beecherfalls, Sandom and Frampton. Too little people for the amounts of jobs available and everyone is busy building something. The Highway, roads and rails bring in a lot of people from other regions of the nation and they need to settle, again creating jobs for construction of homes and other buissnesses.


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F6376%2F3buildingappartments.jpg&hash=75b9f89320ca57a5c433e29fe695ce79ac3b4aad)

The Gabbers, co-working with Tony Rascan to access their newly purchased lands, have succeeded to finally reach the valley of the wilderness with a simple access sandroad to begin with. The worst part is ahead to cut all the trees and drain the land to create a decent road towards their lands and the Highway's futur sites. The road comes in from Bluebay through the bluebay rivervalley. Tony Rascan's plans for the terrain he purchased aren't sure yet, but many many rumours surround the latest aquirement of the Rascan Family. Maybe he found a skullrock also, the Gabbers think.


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F5760%2F4beginingofroad.jpg&hash=2a7e3f3beaa7fc6cfdb105edcd4463fd0be842ea)

The plans for the highway were carefully studied by several architects, some of Gabber Mgs and only recently acknowlegded and accepted by the Government officials. The plan below shows in pink the actual position of Highway 30 south ending in Sandom in red, then continue in pink through the Winding River Wilderness right into downtown of Frampton only to connect again to Highway 30 north.


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F5083%2F5mapganogawrwnewhighway.png&hash=ea6ad65383cd2ee7c6a513a986436d0a405d4370)

As heavy equipment will be delivered and needed to build the two bridges over the big river, it will be less logical to transport them over the mountains, therefor this small road on the riverside will be just perfect to do an easier and less expensive job.


«« One Monday I didn't have school and father asked me and my brother Billy (William) to come along and see the new road constructionsite in the wilderness. We flew with the *Rusty Rover* to the site, while I thought why we didn't take the road, but once there Dad started telling us about a cottage that he has started to build, something as a weekend home for the family. " I found this pond when I flew over the terrains with Mom a couple of weeks ago and we decided right there below to build a little cottage" he yelled trying to overcome the noise of the airplane's motor. "Fishing will be charm here, I've seen a lot of nice trouts," dad added with a sidly smile while looking at me.
That of course lightened up my interest and I checked out every bay of the large pond that I could throw my line in while we made a big circle before landing. We landed on the pond and by now father must know the pond's dangers for him to land on a shallow water like this. The water was clear as glass with a light tint of emerald green. It was beautiful.»»


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F627%2F6thepond.jpg&hash=ee6cd88d96f628a18e4b57a8956d8ceb0f19f1d9)

After the landing John Gabber showed his sons the foundation of the new cottage that will be situated all alone on the pond's southern end. This is another partial lot that he bought for family use only he told us. Charlie told his Dad that the place chosen was the best on the lake.


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F3528%2F7chalet.jpg&hash=7650d1495a4f84b37535034b0ff64305227cb187)

And then they took the red pickup and went to the actual construction site of the road where dozens of people were busy doing what they were payed to do. Heavy machinery all over the place were breaking the silence of the valley.


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F4373%2F8logging.jpg&hash=aca4065701c75e178f4783530a49e1f72b6c7d24)


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F38%2F9loggingandroad.jpg&hash=0b2f19d5eb9a982c17aba78f059712868a86f51e)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F4540%2F10roadconstr.jpg&hash=15917b1eb3ca665fdbd78cad9199a5eec2863caf)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F7128%2F11plasticpipes.jpg&hash=c6d2327b64a1f062872d1b310044d1cf44d378b9)

John went from one place to another seeing how things were coming along and then they visited the logs that were piling up to small mountains.
«« " You better get some more trucks on this Andy, before we run out of room for the logs," Dad said to the foreman responsable for the logging, who nodded positively." Besides the Ryker Sawmill in southbay, isn't there anyone closer around? We're going to have a lot of wood once we reach the Riverjunction. Talk to Mike about it, maybe he will find someone who's willing to build a sawmill right here somewhere."Dad added. The forman got on his way to find Mike Allheimer, the big boss of this construction site. Oh yeah.... now I remember, it's the same Mike as we went fishing with when we found the skulls.»»


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F4905%2F12woodpiles.jpg&hash=d3441ee59fb20f0e90c46498193174998a4ba3e5)

After lunch with the loggers and workers, John and his sons went back to the plane and then head back to Bluebay. It was a satisfying day for both John and his two sons who had a lot of fun visiting the first road into the Winding River Wilderness.

That's enough for today. Have a nice weekend and hope you like this part with a lot of new Nexis props that will be soon available. Have a nice weekend.

mrb ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on March 28, 2009, 10:19:10 AM
that is AWESOME, Cant wait to see more. You going to be using RHW? I think it might fit better than the maxis ones.

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on March 28, 2009, 10:22:13 AM
Awesome  &apls &apls Just so realistic and the details are incredibile :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 28, 2009, 10:46:01 AM
JoeST, I don't know yet, I tried RHW a couple of months ago and I couldn't figure out how to make it function, connect maxis roads and make it look good. I guess I will have to look around and find how they do it sometimes, if not, it will simply be the Maxis groundhgwy.

Thanks kimcar.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CaptCity on March 28, 2009, 03:14:43 PM
Great shots there and still lovin' those props...

Looks like a well-run project. Glad they're not ripping up that wonderful wilderness too much... And I'm so jealous of that future weekend home! Sure isn't what I see looking out my back window  ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbarossaS on March 29, 2009, 01:09:16 PM
Very nice roadbuilding!  :thumbsup:
Can't wait for the prop pack to come out
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on March 29, 2009, 02:55:40 PM
Fred I cant wait for prop pack!!! Man sir you are soo talented!!! I loved this update and exspecially the log piles!!! The story was great as well too, btw I am trying my personal hand at a story check my challenge 2 thread lol...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 29, 2009, 05:26:15 PM
CaptCity, I don't have a view like this neither ;), although I see a field and a forest. I wish I had one like the Gabber's weekend house on grasslake......
BarbarossaS, hm, I guess I don't really have a choice now, I really have to upload that prop-pack.

Quote from: Pat on March 29, 2009, 02:55:40 PM
Fred I cant wait for prop pack!!! Man sir you are soo talented!!! I loved this update and exspecially the log piles!!! The story was great as well too, btw I am trying my personal hand at a story check my challenge 2 thread lol...

I am all over the place Pat, even if I haven't commented yet to your story, I have read it. Keep it up..........who knows....... ;)

I'll be back in a couple of day with another update.

mrb
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rdrdrdrd on March 30, 2009, 12:26:28 PM
just a question, how do you make the water so realistic?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on March 30, 2009, 12:39:04 PM
Pssst it's Racsan,not Rascan


Nice looking town, looks like a huge boom for that place. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on March 30, 2009, 01:12:28 PM
Look's interesting ()stsfd() , can't wait in till the highway is done  :P
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 30, 2009, 03:21:29 PM
rdrdrdrd, the watermod I am using is called  "DarkBlueishGreenish" and I have no idea at all where I got ot from. It was one of the first watermods that appeared yeas ago. Maybe someone knows.......
NASCAR_Guy, sorry...Racsan it is......probably a typing error, it's corrected.

Fred

Thanks for commenting ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Swamper77 on March 30, 2009, 03:57:16 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on March 30, 2009, 03:21:29 PM
rdrdrdrd, the watermod I am using is called  "DarkBlueishGreenish" and I have no idea at all where I got ot from. It was one of the first watermods that appeared yeas ago. Maybe someone knows.......

Mr. Bison,

That water mod is from SimTropolis' Modds section, which has been combined with the STEX: Realistic Water v1 by Joerg and Teirusu (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/stexdetails.cfm?id=21304). It was released November 24th, 2003. Don't question my searching abilities ;)

-Jan
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 30, 2009, 05:20:39 PM
Quote from: Swamper77 on March 30, 2009, 03:57:16 PM
Mr. Bison,

That water mod is from SimTropolis' Modds section, which has been combined with the STEX: Realistic Water v1 by Joerg and Teirusu (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/stexdetails.cfm?id=21304). It was released November 24th, 2003. Don't question my searching abilities ;)

-Jan


Never questioned your search abilities....lol....great memory you got. Remember *Swamper Signs Ltd*? ;)
Thanks for the linkie.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rdrdrdrd on March 30, 2009, 06:39:04 PM
sorry, but the link is broken, can you send it to me?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on March 30, 2009, 06:57:56 PM
STEX is apperntly down atm and you will just have to wait till its up again before you can get the file... But if you want something better try this here [linkie] (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=1227)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rdrdrdrd on March 31, 2009, 12:28:17 PM
I have that, but I want to make a marshy region simmilar to the ones here, but okay I will wait (i can acsess the rest of the stex)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 31, 2009, 05:46:26 PM
Quote from: rdrdrdrd on March 31, 2009, 12:28:17 PM
I have that, but I want to make a marshy region simmilar to the ones here, but okay I will wait (i can acsess the rest of the stex)

Here is what you're gonna do to get that watermod: Write " joerg" into the searchbar pon the left side in the STEX. 50 some articles will show on 2 different pages. Go down halfway the first page and see the Watermods. This is a pack of 10 Joerg's watermods. Download them and then choose the "DarkBlueishGreenish"  and put this one only into the Pluginsfolder. I recommend to put all mods into the C:/Programfiles/Maxis/Simcity4/Plugins folder for faster loading.

That should do the trick.


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rdrdrdrd on April 01, 2009, 04:39:09 AM
thanks
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: thundercrack83 on April 01, 2009, 01:28:27 PM
Congratulations!

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi119.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fo134%2Fthundercrack83%2FOSITM%2F2009-04-Winding.jpg&hash=1eae24750a89b6b01d8fc781dd264d16ae5b3e16)

- The Staff
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: turtle on April 01, 2009, 01:47:55 PM
Wow Fred

What a great region you're building! I love the highway construction pics, they are simply great! So, do you create the region to make the story, or the story to make the region?
Can't wait to see more :)

Oh, and congratulations on the OSITM, you definately have more of those coming your way if when you keep this up. And in tough competition this month  :thumbsup:

Thomas
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbarossaS on April 01, 2009, 01:51:46 PM
Great job on getting that special interest of the month, you absolutely deserve it
&apls &apls &apls &apls &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 01, 2009, 05:47:46 PM
Wow, Thanks....I don't know what to say...errr.....and I forgot my notes at home too..... Well thanks to everyone.
I don't know how this *of special interest this month* works or what it actually means (have to do some research now), but it sounds great. Now I'm really all fired up to deliver more and better stuff in this MD. Does this last one whole month?

turtle, I don't which started, but when I finished creating the region, I thought it would be a good idea to start another CJ/MD with a story, just like NoG.(Nexis of Genesis)
Btw, this is not the highway construction yet, only an access road to where the highway will be build. Stay tuned for some amazing pics of the highway under construction, some new Nexis BATs again.

I will have to fly to Toronto by the end of the week and I will probably not have the time to update before sunday night.
Thanks for dropping in and say hello.

Fred

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rooker1 on April 01, 2009, 06:20:21 PM
Congrats MrB
You start your MD one month ago, now you are on your 8th page and in OSITM.  A big congrats to you, it is very well deserved.  &apls

Yes you are here for a month to show case your talents and if you can find some time to do something special for us, than that would be great, but even if you continue as you have....it's going to be a great month following your MD.

Robin  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: metarvo on April 01, 2009, 06:25:29 PM
Congratulations on OSITM, Fred!  I knew from the beginning of The Winding River Project that it had high potential.  Let's get ready for a good month here!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 01, 2009, 08:13:29 PM
Hey, that sounds ......important?...lol.... Great, so let's rock n' roll and do some serious MD'ing this month...... ;)
Thanks folks, seriously....I just started.  %confuso

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on April 01, 2009, 08:25:01 PM
Fred congrats on your wonderful award for you!!! OSITM as its abbrevated and I know you will rock out!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on April 02, 2009, 01:21:10 AM
yeah Loads of congratulations, you definitely deserve it, this MD ROCKS!

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on April 02, 2009, 05:21:33 AM
 &apls &aplsCongrats Fred for this OSITM , it`s well deserve . OSITM means if you win one , that you have to pay for the beer and peannuts for the whole month  :D You better go to the grocery right away , cause i saw bunch of people comming. ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on April 02, 2009, 06:03:02 AM
Congrats Fred!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on April 02, 2009, 06:38:07 AM
Great update and congrats for that award! :thumbsup: &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on April 02, 2009, 06:51:45 PM
less than a month and you've already been in three MD forums. $%Grinno$%
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on April 02, 2009, 06:59:36 PM
Right said fred, just don't drop dead fred, great work and truly well deserved..
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 02, 2009, 07:20:42 PM
Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on April 02, 2009, 06:51:45 PM
less than a month and you've already been in three MD forums. $%Grinno$%


lol, yeah, that's right, I didn't think of it that way. 3 categories....wow....is that a record?....lol, Well anyways, to me it's proof that the MD is worth continuing. Thanks folks.


Quote from: mightygoose on April 02, 2009, 06:59:36 PM
Right said fred, just don't drop dead fred, great work and truly well deserved..

I have no intention to do so....... $%Grinno$%

Fred

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 03, 2009, 07:10:17 PM
Late August came quicker as everyone believed. The works on the highway access roads are to be finished by december according to plan, but only yesterday another problem appeared. The access road will soon be on the shores of the mighty Winding River. Logging has come to about 500 meters from the banks by now.
While the plans indicate precisely the route that the road should take on the borders of the river, Mike Allheimer, the responsable Manager for the Winding River Project, has discovered another problem that the architects didn't think of.
When the arpenters came close to the river, they realized that the river sometimes inondates the land up to 200 meters on each side of its banks. The proof was shown by treestumps and logs way inside the terrain that were somehow washed up by the river's torrents some time ago.
If a road would be constructed near the banks, it would only be a matter of time that the river would wash it away within a few hours.
Mike brought up the problem and now architects have to figure out how to either contour the riverbanks in the best way or build a road solid enough to withstand the temporary and intermittant inondations every spring or so.
The problem is big enough  for John Gabber to take note and he is seen almost everyday near the access road construction site. John is eager to actually start the construction of Highway 30 itself, which was promissed to the government to be ready by the end of 1959, only three years from now. Worries start to install themselves throughout the leaders of this project.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg25.imageshack.us%2Fimg25%2F60%2F1grasslakerdconstr.jpg&hash=211a8ef9aceaea9d8c1a43a68c2eb57b35fe9561)

«« I haven't seen much of Dad in the last weeks, he does'nt seem to have any freetime for us anymore, even Mom is getting worried. Dad leaves early in the morning before I even get up and comes home only after we all have gone to bed. I know that John Jr, my brother told me one day all about father's implications of this new project of his, but I somehow don't really understand why he doesn't even show up on weekends for us anymore.
Yesterday I saw a picture of our new weekendhome near the Grasslake on the kitchen counter and I was surprised to see that the construction wasn't finished yet, although it started almost a month ago. I also thought that father would have taken a picture with his new camera that even shows the colours now, but I guess he is still using the old one. " Your father has many other things to do than take care of his cottage," Mother told me this morning, "Besides, he was eagerly waiting for the electrical lines to be installed before continuing the works, and he told me that they were installed only 2 days ago. Look at the picture, you can see the lamp-posts now, but I'm not sure if they're working yet." she added.»»

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg25.imageshack.us%2Fimg25%2F9172%2F2grasslakepowerarrives.jpg&hash=1425607c9ede0473f50155d3bff95c042bed4fdc)

While Mike was going nuts on the construction site, John was pushing him even furthermore, reminding him every day of the promess to be ready that specific day in december.
Meeting Mike at the very end of the finished access road, John wanted to know everything there was to know about where they were at. Mike got out the plans and spread them on the table and on the ground and got right straight to the problem of the riverbanks and possible inondations.
It took John only a couple of seconds to think it over while making this strange face of his that he always makes when in questions and he came up with the idea of the sunken woodpoles used on the Greenriver banks to keep the roads in place. What a great idea Mike thought and he was going to get in contact with the Company who had them installed in the Hobbard County.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg441.imageshack.us%2Fimg441%2F1919%2F3grasslakeconstrplans.jpg&hash=c737612d8264924746d4977a2971066413f99d78)

«« " One last thing Mike, " John said while he was about to leave the construction site, " Did Andy the Logging foreman contact you about the logproblem they have at the other end?", " Yeah, he told me that a few weeks ago and I think I found a solution, " Mike answered, " My neighbor's son works for the Aberdeen Sawmill since several years in the Treppel County, he's the foreman there and only 18 years old, but he is one of those most eager guys that nothing can stop. The only problem is," Mike added with a slightly worried face, " he's willing to start and build a sawmill close by and go on his own, but doesn't have all the money needed to construct it." Mike just stood there, making this funny and slightly offset serious face again and then asked, " Who is this?", " His father is Dean Slye, my neighbor down on the beach where you always pick me up when you come with that hydroplane of yours, but I don't know his son's name. On his Pickup truck he's got the initials T.S. painted on", Mike answered with his shoulders almost touching his ears. " I know Dean, he worked for my father once," John said and while stalling the conversation for a short moment he added, " Get this *TS* fellow come to my home late tommorrow night, maybe I have the solution to his money problem.", and he left without saying another work.»»
At the very end of the logging site, workers were told to go home leaving everything right there, until the matter of the riverbanks have been cleared. Less than half a kilometer away from the big river, now the question arrises whether to use the woodpole construction to counterattack the possibilities of inondations or simply detour the access road through the swamps on Racsan's lands, which Racsan himself surely would greatly appreciate and agree with.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg25.imageshack.us%2Fimg25%2F3435%2F4grasslakeconstrplanssu.jpg&hash=e04b1b6c029f7a119f32cf7836943e5eb3c05cb7)

Sorry that I didn't have time for a bigger update, but I will post another one in the near future. The next time we will see the end of the first access road and the beginning of the Highway construction. They finally did it and to celebrate this they had one big champagne party with all the 450 workers that is still remembered today.

Have a nice weekend and hey, thanks to all the readers and commenters.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on April 04, 2009, 06:44:24 AM
 &apls &apls It`s about time someone do some fallen tree . Do you plan to release it. Sorry for asking but ther so great  ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbarossaS on April 04, 2009, 07:50:57 AM
I agree with kimcar, they'd be a great addition to many forrests, all we got now are plain barks

and fred, great update, you tell the story like you've actually lived it, such details  :thumbsup:
getting ready for the first update on the highway ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: antimonycat on April 04, 2009, 04:37:43 PM
You've got some nice stuff here and I especially like the images of your forest shorelines. I'll keep watching this.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Kitsune on April 04, 2009, 06:06:00 PM
That construction looks so realistic, its exactly what you get a peak at with the upgrading and re-alignment of the main road between Toronto and Sudbury (trans canada highway passes thru town).
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: marsh on April 05, 2009, 02:37:30 PM
this is asome! ;D
10 thumbs up! :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

maby i could be a character in your city? ;)

btw... what terrain mod & tree controller are you using??
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 05, 2009, 05:35:59 PM
Thank you all.
kimcar, the fallen treeprops exist already. You can find them on Peg's site, he is the creator.
BarbarossaS, still working on some new BATs for the Grand highway construction update.
antimonycat, glad you like the shorelines, I put some time into these.Thanks.
Kitsune, don't tell me the TCH will pass through Sudbury now?
marsh ,  if you want create a character in my MD, pm me and tell me what you would like, I need some more.

The terrainmod is Cycledog's Olympic terrain, rock and beach mod and all (I think 17) treecontrollers available on the net.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg26.imageshack.us%2Fimg26%2F4371%2Fpolesriver.jpg&hash=61cf5dfde338d11f81af0d90e22ad522313049c6)


Fred


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Kitsune on April 05, 2009, 05:47:52 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on April 05, 2009, 05:35:59 PM
antimonycat, glad you like the shorelines, I put some time into these.Thanks.
Kitsune, don't tell me the TCH will pass through Sudbury now?
The TCH always has passed through Sudbury, all thought right now it goes around the south end of the city - there plans to make it a full expressway within the city. Actually, Sudbury is at a junction for two TCH routes - 17 west to La Soo and Winnipeg, east to Ottawa and 69 (although 69 is being superceded by highway 400) to Toronto. :) Curious though, have you ever been to Sudbury, if so when? The City is nothing like it was 20-30 years ago - infact it doesnt even look like the same city in some areas.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 05, 2009, 08:31:25 PM
kitsune,

Yes I have been to Sudbury and Northbay, the last time when I took my winnebago to Alaska in 1995. The town probably has changed by now. I remember that the town was spred out like I have rarely seen elsewhere and trees were very short and young around the town. The forest were probably were cut down just around then or maybe one of those fires you folks had. I also remember the mines and the poor nature around it.....A lot of Native Americans there too, but they didn't speak Mohawk like I do, probably Hurons? But I can't remember that TCH went right through the town.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 06, 2009, 12:09:37 PM
Your BATs are great!  :thumbsup: :thumbsup: &apls &apls HAve you ever thought about releasing them? If you already did could you tell me where?

Driftmaster
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 06, 2009, 12:30:03 PM
Most of the BATS you see here (logging and roadbuilding) will be released in a prop-pack and Lotpack that I am working on and once I got the time to finetune these, but I have many others on ST, just do a search for *Nexis*.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on April 06, 2009, 01:04:59 PM
Ok thanks about the fallen tree  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Kitsune on April 06, 2009, 05:53:08 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on April 05, 2009, 08:31:25 PM
kitsune,

Yes I have been to Sudbury and Northbay, the last time when I took my winnebago to Alaska in 1995. The town probably has changed by now. I remember that the town was spred out like I have rarely seen elsewhere and trees were very short and young around the town. The forest were probably were cut down just around then or maybe one of those fires you folks had. I also remember the mines and the poor nature around it.....A lot of Native Americans there too, but they didn't speak Mohawk like I do, probably Hurons? But I can't remember that TCH went right through the town.

Fred

Yeah, around 1995 was when the other end of the bypass opened, so you passed through right at the time that the TCH was fully ringed around the city. Natives in the area I believe are either Ojibwa or Algonquin. I myself have a great grandmother from Golden Lake (which is north of Sudbury and Algonquin) which makes me Metis. The forest in the area was non-existent for nearly a 100 years, destroyed by pollution from the mines. Sudbury has since won major awards from the United Nations and other multi-national groups. Infact, its become a major environmental leader, oddly enough.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on April 07, 2009, 06:03:09 PM
And it gave us Alex Trebek :P
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on April 07, 2009, 11:04:36 PM
Nicely done, though I think they'll have to get to work to keep up with demand. Seems like there's plenty to work with, as long as they don't cut things up too much (need to let some grow for better lumber later). Assuming this TS character is at all competent, I'm sure he'll have some opportunities just waiting for him. I like the log-based guard rails (they look a bit odd for some reason, but I'm not sure why) and your BATs again continue to impress, as do the scenes you use them in. You're using the RRP stuff to great effect. I'm surprised they haven't tried to conquer the swampiness with a log road yet. Ah well, time will tell and I'm looking forward to future developments, including the road you were showing last time.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on April 08, 2009, 07:20:31 PM
Fred I do have to say I love the actual start of the construction of the Gabbers Cottage there wow!!! I do honestly have to say when reading you get the feeling of being in the 50's here...  I do also love those log barriers there you have made!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 09, 2009, 02:13:53 PM
Quote from: threestooges on April 07, 2009, 11:04:36 PM
... conquer the swampiness with a log road ....
-Matt

Hm....an idea? Sounds good, will try.

Thanks Pat, glad you like the cottage. Can't wait to finish it.....lol


The Story continues...

«« Last wednesday morning, Dad flew over to our cottage again and he left me in the hands of Mike Allheimer for the whole day, while he  continued his flight to pick up a certain Slye fellow from Frampton , just outside of the city itself and then go on to the Capitol City to do some "paperwork" as he always calls it. I went fishing all day with a young guy that Mike brought along. His name was Michael Arven, I think he must be 14 or maybe even 15 years old. It is one of Mike Allheimer's neighbors. His father, a well known accountant, lives alone with his two sons ever since his wife died in an accident and has become a close friend with Mike. We had a lot of fun fishing and Michael has become somewhat of a friend during the the afternoon. Mike Allheimer brought us back home later that evening.
When we got to Grasslake, I saw that the cottage started to look like  a house now. I can't wait until it is finished, so I can go fishing everyday when we spent time here. " Wow...." Michael said to Charlie, " Can I come and see you sometimes when this is finished? I kinda like this place already, looks coool." leaving to explore the constructionsite »»

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F5506%2F1grasslakeconstr1.jpg&hash=26243ad8c0f971801ad8fccca8211b123dabaf39)

from the back view...

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg22.imageshack.us%2Fimg22%2F4638%2F2grasslakeconstr2.jpg&hash=faa00e93f3a43971778755eec9046f02f369f9e2)

Indeed, the construction of the cottage has advanced and it is about to have a roof. Only 2 workers working on it, since most of the workers available are either on the access road construction or the Highway in the Sandom County.
After having dropped off his son Charlie at the Grasslake with Mike Allheimer and Michael Arven, he flew to Frampton to pick up this young TS Slye fellow who was interested in the sawmilling buissness that Mike talked about. Slye lives just beside his parents on the Bluebay river banks in one of his Dad's homes, just outside the city itself.  
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg231.imageshack.us%2Fimg231%2F8471%2F3homes.jpg&hash=8300fdafb01caac884e6769dfccd280ca29d1e2e)

Together they flew to the Capitol City, a three hour flight towards the east. It was the first time that John flew this direction himself with *Rusty Rover*, usually always getting him flown there with the Company's jet. TS,  as Slye's son wanted to be called, seems to be a sociable and intelligent young fellow with quite some knowledge of logging, sawmilling and a lot of love for railing as John found out during the ride. They both talked about all kinds of things on their way through the Winding River Wilderness and the mountains in the east towards the big city.
Right in the middle of the Winding River Wilderness, TS pointed down to some steam coming from a forested area, when John explained that these were hotsprings, quite often found in the this wilderness, but access is close to impossible. No roads close by and no water big enough to land a small airplane. he also mentioned that his neighbor Mr Racsan nearby his place in Bluebay bought these lands and that they both, Mr Racsan and Gabber, are about to build a road through his lots with the access road they started a few months ago.
«« " I don't know why exactly Mr Racsan bought the area," John explained to TS," because it is half mountains and half thick forests, no river and only partial access to Grasslake and the Winding River at one point. And as much as I know Mr Racsan as he is one of the richests fellows in the region, he has something in mind with this, 'cause nothing he bought just for the fun of it." Then John added after a few seconds: " Maybe it is an investment for his son Guy, he's about your age, still studying engineering in college. Maybe the hotsprings interest him to make a vacation resort," looking at Ts with a wide smile »»

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg231.imageshack.us%2Fimg231%2F2405%2F4hotsprings.jpg&hash=b60f1b570e7d1e2ccfb9728e00e30260a89b9b11)

After having flown for about 40 minutes and finally getting out of the forested wilderness, they encountered several small villages and even some towns in the foothills of the immense mountain range. One town was of special interest to John, flying low when he saw those floodlogs again on the riverbanks, this time doubled. Maybe another good idea to have on the access road near the inondation area by the Winding river.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg231.imageshack.us%2Fimg231%2F9114%2F5floodlogs.jpg&hash=9d9f8445bc72db4009535ad675ee13e8ea44bca4)

TS added his ideas of flood-retaining walls and asked if the rails could be supported by the logs also, when he pointed out to another wall that he saw on the lakeshore of a small village, probably very old. These were made of piled up rocks, but surely not strong enough to hold the waters of the mighty Winding River, John confirmed.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg231.imageshack.us%2Fimg231%2F5044%2F6lowerriverdistrictseaw.jpg&hash=598525872372aee7d31b674fc5f47edbecf9084b)

Then it wasn't long and they entered the Capitol district by flying over the industrial park before landing not too far from there. This surely doesn't look like Bluebay TS thought, coming here for the first time and he couldn't resist to mention how amazed he was. Once landed they rented a car at the small airport and drove downtown while discussing why they came here.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg231.imageshack.us%2Fimg231%2F2347%2F7industparkcapitol.jpg&hash=65a95bf3334bee68171076916e4510b1850f1287)

«« " Listen TS, as we talked it over the other day and if this idea will work out with the federal office, we will have something strong and solid to build on. I will be willing to step into this sawmill buissness with you and finance the other half that you need to get started," John explained his ideas to TS again, " and you will handle it the way you want it to." TS nodded positively and asked, " So do you really think that the gouvernment will let us do all the logging in the Winding River Valley?" John smilingly answered: " Of course they will, wait 'til I explain them how much money they can make from all these natural resources, besides the forest is mature and needs to be cut, or at least cleaned out a bit. So much of it is already wasted every year. Just let me do the talking. I haven't built the access road for nothing. Listen, I will present you as my partner, ok?" That surely added a big smile on TS's face. »»

And soon they both were in the federal office talking about the massive logging in the Winding River Wilderness they had in mind. The discussion took a good 2 hours and finally they all came to an agreement. Logging it will be, but only with a well thought over plan that the Forest-management Office will provide. John and TS agreed. After a couple of official handshakes, both the new sawmill owners walked out with a big smile and headed for a good restaurant for a good meal and to talk their victory over. TS thanked John for all the help that he has given sofar and told him that he is proud to be his partner, now knowing that his future is about to change for the better.

Days have become shorter in late fall and the evenings come faster too. The Capitol was already all lit up before they headed home and a last look over downtown was quite an exceptional view. TS never saw such a big world and wondered how many people could be living down there that have a similar dream of starting something as he just did.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg231.imageshack.us%2Fimg231%2F5635%2F8capitol.jpg&hash=e55628498de774efb847a134c265e8857b3089a3)

Meanwhile in Bluebay, Mike has dropped off Charlie and Michael Arven who were by that time completely burnt out from fishing all day. Lucky for them, tomorrow is no school. Charlie had a wonderful day explaining the details to his Mom and brother.

Since the Gabber Inc will be responsable for the highway construction as soon as it enters the Winding River district, John went to see where it is at the moment in the Sandom County. He visited the sites of the mountainous area just ouside the town and also the swampy region beyond the hills, where special foundations were prepared for a more solid and stable construction through the small unstable valley grounds. Productions were on time and by late december, the highway will enter Gabber's territory.
Now John has to plan to get the loggers down there and start clearing the lands, then the bulldozers to prepare the terrain and the architects to start planning the decend into the valley.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg231.imageshack.us%2Fimg231%2F7409%2F9highwaybase.jpg&hash=0d2df362771fea24c0d3efd4c1ad564e83ce28c0)


Now, have a nice long weekend (for most of us) and a Happy Easter. I'll be back in a couple of days with the party and the beginning of the highway construction in the Winding River Wilderness.......

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on April 09, 2009, 02:20:50 PM
Very beautiful are you going to up,oad those some day soon?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on April 09, 2009, 06:23:47 PM
i love it, its like a soap opera watching the stories of these people unfold, it brings back so many fond memeries of NEXIS.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on April 09, 2009, 06:48:14 PM
Fred I am loving it wow!!! :thumbsup: The Cottage is coming along nicely and the highway is getting its foundation sweetness!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on April 09, 2009, 08:58:18 PM
I love those Stonewalls and the Highway Construction seems to be coming along nicely!  &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on April 10, 2009, 06:36:41 AM
 &apls &apls Excellent once again. I really like the house in construction . You got very great bat. I just asking myself how you did for putting those stone wall on the side road ? Have fun
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 10, 2009, 09:37:59 PM
Thanks again for the comments.

danielcote, it will take some time to get the props working properly and maybe retexturing some and rerendering them, because they were done quickly for private use, but seeing that many would like to have them, I will surely create 2 prop-packs and 1 Lotpack one day.
If anyone wants to have a specific prop or lot right away, just PM me and I'll send it.

mightygoose, To me also, it brings back many memories of NoG when I am writing this story. Glad you like it.

Pat, glad you enjoy yourself with the cottage. Maybe I should upload all the different lotstages also when I'm done building it.

Nexis4Jersey, Nice to see you leaving a comment. Come again.


kimcar,  the stonewall is an offset prop that is placed on a traffic enabled 1x1 roadlot, that's how I did it, not very complicated.

Have a nice weekend
Fred

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Sciurus on April 11, 2009, 05:35:32 AM
Nice city, and I'm happy for you that you're there :thumbsup:

Guillaume :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on April 11, 2009, 07:00:04 AM
Quote from: mrbisonm on April 10, 2009, 09:37:59 PM
the stonewall is an offset prop that is placed on a traffic enabled 1x1 roadlot, that's how I did it, not very complicated.

Have a nice weekend Fred

Thanks for the tip , I didn`t know that those wall came offset.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on April 11, 2009, 08:46:34 AM
Nice work on the continuation. Your pictures of that wonderful city are also fantastic! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on April 12, 2009, 07:04:46 AM
Id really like the props for that water plane thanks.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 12, 2009, 08:21:54 AM
Quote from: danielcote on April 12, 2009, 07:04:46 AM
Id really like the props for that water plane thanks.

It should be available in the coming weeks, unless you want the MD/CJ version right now without any guarantee and just a simple parkplop with an untextured lot, then pm me with your e-mail address. I will send it later this weekend.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on April 12, 2009, 06:29:33 PM
Isn't that plane an Antinov A-2?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 13, 2009, 09:17:59 AM
NASCAR_Guy. If you're talking about the Gabber's hydroplane, it is an Antinov AN-2/1954. A real tough cookie. The textures for this model I found on the net through Yahoo search. and I thought , just perfect for my CJ, but I didn't know that it was an army texture. Connaisseur in airplanes?

Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg151.imageshack.us%2Fimg151%2F5191%2Fantinov.jpg&hash=c065cb376a5bf53061d0721e8187ff2cb8b47904)


Edit, I just found this on the net.............


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg152.imageshack.us%2Fimg152%2F815%2Fantonovan2colt.jpg&hash=3fd003e0bc8c992522773f87ce5d8901b2fee080)

A few of the bushpilots up here in the north of Canada still fly this kind of plane.

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: cowcorn on April 17, 2009, 11:13:03 AM
Hey Fred! I've been away from the game for a long time just after my pluggins got crippled in late 2007. I got tired of spending more time maintaining my pluggins than actualy playing. I took over the task of rebuilding them just after I bought my new computer. It took me 4 months... I've started playing again only last january. I'm getting back in the game slowly but I'm still much of a lurker out here and I almost never post anything on Simtropolis anymore. As for my real life... I'm still in Sherbrooke for my bachelor degree in music. I will be studying part time next year and should hopefully head up to study music history for a master after that. I really should have finnished earlier but I have spent way too much time in student politics...

As for your MD I'd just say it's good to get back in your style. It kinda feels like home. I may not be the most frequent poster (espescially at the end of the semester like now...) but I assure you that I keep myself up to date.

Joel
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 17, 2009, 09:37:37 PM
Thanks for dropping in cowcorn and I am glad things are going well. Wish you all the luck with your projects and come back once in awhile.

I have been very busy with the GRV II Challenge on this site, taken 90% of my Simcity freetime, so that is mainly why I haven't made an update this week for the Winding River Project, but I will give you all a good story and some nice pics before the next week ends with the sunday. Make sure to be back by then. :) Thanks for the patience.


mrb
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CaptCity on April 17, 2009, 10:11:27 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on April 17, 2009, 09:37:37 PM...but I will give you all a good story and some nice pics before the next week ends with the sunday. Make sure to be back by then. :) Thanks for the patience.

Well, that'll give them a chance to finish the summer house... ;). As much as I'm enjoying watching it being built, I'm sure it'll be a treat to see it finished. Also, really like your various waterfront walls. Everything's looking very fine here...  :thumbsup:

CaptCity
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on April 19, 2009, 07:23:38 AM
Oh that is a nice plane you know panam use to use it
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: soulchaser on April 22, 2009, 04:39:58 AM
Finally, I had some time to read this MD and look at all the pics.

Very detailed, I like it a lot. You must spend a lot of time for all this. I bow in awe.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 23, 2009, 03:41:22 PM
CaptCity,thanks, but I have to disapoint you a bit here, only one person works on the Gabber's summerhome and it will take a little longer to see it finished, besides......well, read the story. ;)

danielcote, no I didn't know,I wonder what for though?

soulchaser, I hope now that you read and liked it a lot, you'll come back? ;)

Thank you all for being patient. I have been very busy irl and also with the GRV II challenge in the last days and therefore it was impossible to bring you another update. But today I was able to finish the continuing story of the Winding River Project.


Before continuing the story, let's have a short look of the Widing River map and its developments.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg244.imageshack.us%2Fimg244%2F9202%2Fwrwregion.png&hash=1599432888c5e810d7b18cd17ac02974b7f869d0)

You are probably assisting in a major historical event in the Winding River Region with this update. Nowadays only very few places on this earth are the birth of a new city, because most of the bigger cities have already taken their place and newer ones will only be the follow-ups of larger towns and some villages.
Where did big cities spring up irl? In most cases it was a strategic point whether at a river, coast or bay, lake, mountain pass, rich and fertile valley or simply at a interjunction of two or more trails or roads. And this we are about to witness from the beginning in the Winding River Wilderness.

The Gabbers have been working hard for the year on the project to meet the new highway 15 that is being build at the entrance of the Wilderness Valley. The deadline is december 1959 and we are about to reach it. From there on, the contract to continue the highway through the whole region and bring it to the doors of the north will be taken over by the Gabbers.
Finally it was decided not to build the access road too close to the mighty river, because of the possibilities of floods, and a more inland like route was chosen, John Gabber and Mike Allheimer decided so.

Finances are still good but could be better if only the sawmill could be build and the lumber cut and sold. If you would drive on the access road for more than 10 kilometers, you would probably see more wood than road. Loggers who clear the way for the road, take about three times the width of the road itself to clearcut and this region is lumberheaven, not having been ever cut before. The loggers call it the Virginforest , fun to cut and money made easily accessible, a logger's dream.  

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg27.imageshack.us%2Fimg27%2F8530%2F1grasslakewestwood.jpg&hash=74dc7ac8ea829bcfed9b0f2d95a4e402ed613658)

Some parts of the road are a little wet and heavy traffic, such as trucks and machinery get stuck here and there. Since they don't have the time to fully drain the area for the road, they fill the wetspots with logs that have little or no value, such as white birchtrees and poplars. These logroads have to be constantly repaired all the time, but make it possible to pass without getting held up to drain the whole area first. Time is money as they say in simcity.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg244.imageshack.us%2Fimg244%2F6932%2F2grasslakewestlogroad.jpg&hash=0ec65a9ddd976a3d4b810c203444f8a9560e8992)

Right passed the western half of Grasslake, the road was split into two. The highway access road continued to the west and another road heads southward into the hills. This is the land that the Racsan family bought. The Millionaire Mr Racsan bought this land of several thousands of acres about the same time as the Gabbers. They even paid a part of the access road. From here on though , they are on their own and Grandpa Gabber thinks that the old man Racsan has bought this land for his retirement that he thinks about in the near future. They even installed a gate with their name on it to keep the property closed and private. Maybe they even started building a home up there. I guess we would have to take the plane to see this.
The little hut beside the Racsan's entrance is an emergency-shed, little sheds that can give you shelter, water, warmth and protection when needed in this wilderness. Something that the federal Government made possible for regions with difficult access and should be build every 20 or so kilometers.

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After 7 months of logging, bulldozing and graveling, the end of the access road has come to an end just two weeks before the deadline. They even had some time to build a road to a waterpoint and to meet the highwayconstruction folks coming downhill from the south. It was a great day for everyone.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg27.imageshack.us%2Fimg27%2F571%2F4lakesteadcountyhwy15jc.jpg&hash=03ebb32d4821219c378686864c1e76eb4d131b89)

The administrators, some politicians and even the governor, all came to visit the site in a small Cessnaplane that they landed on the gravelroad on the straight section. Congratulations were offered to both teams and new contracts were discussed and finalized after a good inspection of the work done.
Highway 15 is important to the rest of the country because it will bring the south and the north together in a much shorter way. Also it will give access to the giant region of the Winding River and the biggest river in the east. New ressources can be found, mineral and natural and oil-rich sands were already spotted a little further down the river.
The highway in this area is build on unstable sandy soils and therefor needs solid cement frames beneath the actual regular asphalt, but only for a few kilometers. After the land gets quite solid with rocky grounds and tapped brown earth that the glaciers weighed and flattened down many millenia ago. It will be faster and less costing to construct from there on. Soilsamples have been taken earlier this summer and they show that the soils are good until the second crossing of the Winding River, after, well.....this will be another story.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg244.imageshack.us%2Fimg244%2F2434%2F5lakesteadcountyofficia.jpg&hash=5557818d4bf553833ee25208b08d7b49ffce675e)


A nice overview of a good part of the construction site.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg244.imageshack.us%2Fimg244%2F1122%2F6lakesteadcountyhwycons.jpg&hash=02a52f61f397d716959dfed1f65fa3cbec48b178)

If one would count the number of workers that take part of this project, it would go into several hundreds. A job for everyone, as John Gabber always says.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg244.imageshack.us%2Fimg244%2F3264%2F7lakesteadcountyjobs.jpg&hash=21e012fcb2e54e78618d3f19a95ea8218e8b3e26)

For the event that the access road reached the highway 15 and that this contract was finished just in time, John Gabber and his company organized a big party for everyone that has participated in this yearlong project. A place close to the intersection of the highway 15 and the access road was cleared and temporarily cemented to have a clean and leveled location for the tents and the stage where he himself, his father , the governor and other VIP can present their speech to thank everyone and also to officially have the start of the 5 year Highway multi-million Project through the wilderness. After the speeches the musicband took hold of the the stage. It was one heck of a party, they even had someone that drank himself to death.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg244.imageshack.us%2Fimg244%2F7159%2F8lakesteadcountyparty.jpg&hash=5f5b80e527753218c64e9bbedcce093510d2ae6f)

A few days after the party, the parking lot was sold, as did the lot opposite of it and within a few weeks two restaurants popped up. The party stage was abandonned. No electricity, but everything worked on natural gaz in these restaurants. These restos will be quite useful for most of the truckers and workers that will be working for the next five years on this project because finding something to eat nearby , one would have to travel about 50 kms to find a small canteen in the neighboring region only. The governor now has the whole area de-zoned and opened for residential and commercial buildings and many lots are offered for a small price.
John Gabber has the contract to build an offcial exit on the highway right here in Access Junction, as everyone is calling this place by now. I guess it will become the official name one day.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg244.imageshack.us%2Fimg244%2F9333%2F9lakesteadcountyrestos.jpg&hash=6b8358ad7bc8e3ef560fa3b89e8379dc9735a410)

Once the land was dezoned and now on sale by the government, John Gabber bought many acres of it with the financial help of his father, knowing that this might be an excellent future investment. So did his friend and foreman Mike Allheimer and even some of the simple workers. In all some 740 small lots were sold within 30 days after the public offer. Young T. Slye (TS) and his partner John Gabber also bought a 7 acres lot just near the intersection beside the bigger restaurant and clearing has already started as a priority to build the new sawmill that will handle and take care of all the wood that was and is being cut for the highway project. Young Slye had bright eyes that day, when he saw the size of that lot and imagined their sawmill already built in. Now TS can't sleep quietly anymore knowing that his dream is coming true so fast.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg244.imageshack.us%2Fimg244%2F3391%2F10lakesteadcountysawmil.jpg&hash=c3c0163e0c010ce880aec2f0c13b6afb80063bc4)

Most of the lumber that is being logged on this lot will be cut right here with a mobile sawmill and the constructionwood will be used to build the sawmill and the buildings needed for this project.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg244.imageshack.us%2Fimg244%2F7210%2F11lakesteadcountysawmil.jpg&hash=cfb8bf75f2e66606c16ca92cbbd025f1f62d74be)

Here's a nice overview of the junction itself, where the access road meets the highway 15. The road to the right leads to the waterpoint, just a little open well that is supplying the water needed for the people and the constructions.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg244.imageshack.us%2Fimg244%2F9945%2F12lakesteadcountyjctove.jpg&hash=6e19b9208bc2a89ea69679718c83dbb2c83a5c3a)

Something that started a few months ago only as a little relaxation to change the long and enduring workhours of all hired hands, has today become a weekly miniature sportsevent, whether it is football, soccer, volleyball or baseball, everyone is invited for a couple of hours every wednesday afternoon to leave their job and participate in a friendly game or just to relax near the heavy machinery parkinglot. Surprisingly to most of the workers, even formen, the program manager and the owner of Gabber Mgt, John himself, participate in the event. More and more people get implicated each week in this activity.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg244.imageshack.us%2Fimg244%2F4619%2F13lakesteadcountygames.jpg&hash=7a80f5cfe75564e1533d1c3605fdbef297afd1bb)

Here's a view of the highway 15 that was built by the company from Beecher Falls down to the flatlands of the Winding River Wilderness where the Gabber's will take over. A project that lasted one year and was quite hard to achieve because of the rough terrain it was chosen to be built on. We can barely see on the bottom right the intersection of the access road and the highway.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg244.imageshack.us%2Fimg244%2F9710%2F14lakesteadcountyhwymou.jpg&hash=437bac4ce1aad3167699d7753b3354237566cf62)

Oh....... I almost forgot to tell you about the Gabber's cottage construction on the Grasslake.

«« This week my brother John Jr came up to me and told me that I should forget about the fishing for good on Grasslake because Dad sold the cottage already and he really started nagging me about it. `You should buy yourself a guitar and do something more useful than go fishing for these ugly creatures`, he told me. Ha, look who's talking? Mr Juniorrrr is always studying and doing nothing useful anyways besides tuning his guitarrr every night, I thought. Pffff, what a bummer he became since he turned 18. I can't wait until he leaves home with his so-called-beautiful-girlfriend for good.
I asked Mom about it but she doesn't seem to know a thing about the cottage. It left me frustrated not to know what happened and if it is true what Jr says. Dad is always gone to work these days and I don't see him at all anymore.»»

But this changed since the thirteenth birthday of charlie was in a week. Father John took Charlie on his birthday fishing for the last time this year and before the lake freezes over for a month or so for the whole weekend. As they almost reached the cottage site, Charlie asked about it being sold and John told him to be patient, he will explain everything once landed.
«« " You know Mike?" father asked me when we went into the new cottage which seems to be enormous and which now had a roof or something like it already, I nodded yes, " Well, he has been bugging me for some time now to buy the summerhome with the three acre lot, and yes, I sold it to him"...he didn't even let me ask him why when he continued,",....and before you panic let me tell you, that it was a darn good deal and a just great idea." Speechless I didn't know what to say.....a good idea? I couldn't give a darn about the deal, but why the good idea? What the heck is this about? How can be seeling a dreamhouse on a dreamlake in a dreamland be a good idea?, I was wondering...," Just about a month ago", father continued," I went with the Company's arpenter to the other end of the grasslake to draw the line between our lots and the ones that belong to that rich fellow Mr Racsan, when I saw the most perfect spot for our cottage and believe me, it is ten times better for everything than this bay with shallow waters and surrounded by mosquito infested swamps, you'll see." I was suspecting something fishy here, and I wanted to see this place as he described it right now, but Dad told me to be patient. I don't believe until I see I told him.
Father told me that the waters were deeper, much more fish and bigger too, privacy was even better and most of all it is on a landpoint that reaches far into the lake to give the best view of the whole area. He said that he bought some 40 acres of land around that point and the site to build on was already chosen. He's just waiting for Mom's approval. Then he said, " Besides, a young fellow with the name of Michael Arven, a student in architecture in the Bluebay College that uncle Gary teaches, has made a plan of a beautiful loghome that I couldn't resist when I saw the plans. Exchanging our cottage here with the freshly designed one by the Arven fellow was not hard to decide. It'll be very nice and I'll show you the plans when we get back tonight, I am sure you will like it also. ...Now let's get that boat started and do some serious bass fishing around the bay," and off we went fishing for the day.»»
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg244.imageshack.us%2Fimg244%2F6361%2F15grasslakechalet1.jpg&hash=54b8a01f6c55de2f45e9d35901e1d95666cfb233)

Two stories in the frontpart and cathedral ceiling on the back part, probably the whole backwall will be windowed, this will become a dream come true for Mike Allheimer.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg244.imageshack.us%2Fimg244%2F8324%2F16grasslakechalet2.jpg&hash=fc6fc141bebac375622e2adce0b77ed6e01fdb3c)

Here we can clearly see the so called *Mousquito-infested swamps* surrounding the cottage, and maybe it was a good idea to have chosen the other place.....hm....I wonder if it was.??

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg27.imageshack.us%2Fimg27%2F6789%2F17grasslakechalet3sold.jpg&hash=421f10c339cc82374b24cbaa0c981e4829477b33)

So I hope that it was worth waiting for this update and also hope you liked and enjoyed it. The next time we will visit the new highway again, take a look of how they're advanced and has been constructed in Access Junction and surely come back to see Mike's new cottage and maybe the beautiful location of the new cottage for the Gabbers. I wish I could see the plans of that new summerhome John saw , which Michael Arven designed.......

Comments are always welcomed and appreciated. So let's hear what you like and don't. Have a nice week and weekend, be back as soon as I find the time. ;)

Fred

Members that have a character in this story:

NASCAR_Guy ................ Guy Racsan, son of Mr Racsan, the millionaire.
mightygoose ................ Michael Arven, the young architect.
threestooges ............... TS or T. Slye, Not sure what the T stands for, the new sawmill co-owner.

Now, I could use some more folks to join with a character, no matter what profession, sexe and no matter what age they enter the story. I am sure I'll find something interesting for them. I will take a max of 10 more to start off with, but make sure that you come and visit sometimes and leave a comment, otherwise I will let the character die.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on April 23, 2009, 04:39:28 PM
brilliant update here fred, love the the loghouse and the birth of the city, cant wait to see it develope :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 23, 2009, 08:12:04 PM
Thanks mightygoose......

I had to re-upload some of the pictures because some were missing, others were doubled etc in my imageshack account, some mixup of the site I guess. So, this should be fine now. It's all fixed.....sorry for the confusion it could have caused.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: RustyXL on April 23, 2009, 09:04:58 PM
Hey Fred, great new update. Sorry I've never commented before, but I've been enjoying this MD since you started it. I really like the story, it's like a good book you don't want to put down. You've also made some great BATs for this MD, it must've taken you a while to make them all.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on April 24, 2009, 12:35:19 AM
Sorry to hear someone died at the party, but at least everyone had fun. Access Junction is coming along nicely. I like the truck stop you've created (and the area for the sawmill is shaping up nicely, so many trees, so little time). The detail you put in your lots is excellent (such as the residence behind the restaurant) and is simple at the same time; a difficult task to pull off. The house on the lake looks like an amazing spot, but I sure Mike Arvin probably has something up his sleeve if it's good enough to leave that place behind. Mr. Allheimer certainly didn't do too bad on the deal. Nice work on the log road. I've seen it used in other places before (though occasionally with the logs parallel with the road) and it seems like a good solutionto keep things moving. Great story and neat developments to go with it. Looking forward to what's next.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbarossaS on April 24, 2009, 12:39:11 AM
Lovely update as always!  :thumbsup: I'm glad to finally see some highway :P
I know your busy playing GRVII, so take your time to update this MD, we'll be patiently awaiting it  ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on April 24, 2009, 12:53:39 AM
Excellent update Fred, glad you decided to use RHW. I wonder how you will make the junction at Access Junction, will you be removing the buildings that currently reside there?

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 24, 2009, 05:56:12 AM
Thanks folks for the comments.
RustyXL, glad you like the story although I'm not a great writer at all. Come back.
threestooges, glad you like the start of your character's sawmill, I have some nice BATs for it in store. I have seen those parralel logroads too, only one problem though, when it gets really wet the logs will be puched aside by the weight of the vehicule and then get stuck in between, even worse than not having any logs at all. This way it's a bumpy, but solid ride through the wet areas.
BarbarossaS, I will have no other choice than to slow down a little with the MD since GRV II and real life take a bite out of my time. Thanks for being patient.
JoeST, the RHW exit will be a little more further up than the actual junction, so not to interfere with the already existing buildings too much. It will be something like on the picture below.

Here is a little jump into the future. Slye's sawmill construction has started, the highway is done although the exit is only temporarily and only traffic for the constructions are allowed onto the highway, some more houses were built . Have a nice weekend.

Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg17.imageshack.us%2Fimg17%2F4578%2Faccessjunctionplannedex.jpg&hash=a5a9463a4e461075083d632d47c67e9a75eded72)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on April 24, 2009, 06:23:36 AM
thanks for the info Fred. Another question, your RHW looks like it is just two lanes of RHW2 rather than a set of RHW4 going in each direction. It seems to be the same with your previous RHW pic too  &mmm. If you dont know, there should be a puzzle starter-piece (that you lay down and then drag the RHW two tool through) to create RHW4.

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on April 24, 2009, 09:23:16 AM
That's a good point about the parallel roads, I guess that land down there is swampier than I thought. As for the sawmill, what can I say besides "prime real estate"? Really cool to hear it's going to be a custom job, and being right off the new highway is indeed a plus.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 24, 2009, 12:28:39 PM
Quote from: JoeST on April 24, 2009, 06:23:36 AM
thanks for the info Fred. Another question, your RHW looks like it is just two lanes of RHW2 rather than a set of RHW4 going in each direction. It seems to be the same with your previous RHW pic too  &mmm. If you dont know, there should be a puzzle starter-piece (that you lay down and then drag the RHW two tool through) to create RHW4.

Joe

To be honest Joe, this is the very first time that I use the RHW. And even worse....I have no idea how it is done....lol. But now that you mention it, I think I saw something like a starter piece but it only was a two lane also. I will go through all the RHW pieces again and see what I can and/or cannot do. I might even be missing some files (hope not). Question: Is there a sort of an explanation or tutorial how to use the RHW pieces somewhere? I would really love to have the RHW at least in the countryside. Thanks for waking me up.......I'll be back maybe later tonight.

Prime real estate it seems, Matt. It will take some to bat and lot the new sawmill, I really want to give it the custom look. Maybe I should continue to finish my Nexis Mega sawmill that I started 4 years ago....... (that gave me an idea....back to the drawing board and looking through the old 3d files)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg8.imageshack.us%2Fimg8%2F9939%2Fsawmill.jpg&hash=df728f360d320338885ee919a20da44c01813c2c)


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Jmouse on April 24, 2009, 12:31:34 PM
Hi Fred, been trying to find time to catch up with Winding River. The pics are some of the best rural shots I've ever seen. Truly you have captured the essence of a weekend retreat. The details are especially eye catching - the "under construction" elements are are a great touch. It will be a pleasure to watch further development.

Later...
Joan
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on April 24, 2009, 12:46:51 PM
Hey Fred, sorry for posting many times.

There is a guide for using the RHW in the RHW readme file :D

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: steVie on April 24, 2009, 02:13:24 PM
I've used some of your Nexis products in my cities, and it just leaves me speechless what some of you guys/gals can do with this game.  It's amazing watching that summer house being built as you've got it detailed to a tee.  Keep up the tremendous work and great storyline.  I'll be watching
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on April 24, 2009, 06:19:39 PM
 &apls &apls I really enjoy watching what you gonna show to us . It`s always nice to see your props for making this game so real. Great work my friend :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 24, 2009, 08:11:36 PM
Thanks for the comments.

I spent more than an hour to figure out how to work the RHW and I came to a point where I have about tried every possible combination of plopping to create something that looks reasonable, but without any success (see picture below). Either I am missing a lot of things or I am simply too darn stupid to plop things right, ( although in one hour I plopped a lot of possibilities you know?....lol) or the RHW is not complete and I am missing files or something or simply the RHW is not a finished product. Besides the instructions that I found in the readme are very limited and don't make things easier. (also missing some explanations)
Anyways what I saw and tried in that 80 minutes didn't please me at all and it gave me a headache trying to figure out what is what and why how , and when a game becomes *stressfull* like this, it isn't a game anymore in my opinion and then better change it.
So I decided to go back with the original Maxis Highway that doesn't have any problems making entries and/or exits and everything fits without going through a whole pluginsfolder and using the home/End key so much that it is used right off the keyboard.
Sorry, you will have to look at a regular ground Maxis highway.

;) I'm going to bed now and have some nightmares about this........ &cry2


Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg6.imageshack.us%2Fimg6%2F4687%2Flakesteadcountyhwypiece.jpg&hash=c8a86118ab854f923ed3d074c656b1e72e82df59)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CaptCity on April 24, 2009, 09:17:20 PM
Another great update, as always... The realistic construction areas (and the accompanying details) make me feel like I'm right there on the ground. It will be very interesting to watch and see if or how Access Junction develops. Too bad about the summer cottage, though. Although it sounds like the new spot has real possibilities.

Oh yes, I feel your pain with the RHW, but don't give up. It would be very intriguing to see how you would wind it through the wilderness (Just a thought, though... It is your plan, after all)

Great job, and looking forward to more...

-CaptCity
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mike3775 on April 26, 2009, 06:34:53 AM
mrbisonm.

I had the same issues that you have with the RHW, but if you hit tab, the colored lines will line up eventually, you have to cycle through them though.

I am enjoying this MD a lot, and I decided to take city building slower than I normally do for fun and have found that the game is even more enjoyable when you go nice and slow.

BTW, are those construction lots that you use available anywhere?  I like them a lot

Again great job so far and am looking forward to the next chapter
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on April 26, 2009, 08:58:21 AM
Great work on the newest update there! It looks beautiful! Nice story there, too! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 26, 2009, 09:29:34 AM
CaptCity, Access Junction should have a great possibility to develop positively into a small town soon. Situated like this on a a busy intersection and close to a crystal clear small lake, it will have no problem to thrive. Glad you enjoy my small MD/CJ.

mike3775, I have tried all the plops with the tab key and/or home-end key and none seem to line up correctly, impossible to make decent looking exits, therefor I decided to use regular Maxis highways where entries and exits are simplier and clean.
I have a lot of patience when it comes to building something, but there's a limit and trying to figure out the RHW which I have noh success with, now it is time to change for something better.
Building cities or towns slower and imagining a little story that comes with it's growth is really a lot of more fun and interesting than just to try to build a Megacity rightaway without getting to know the city's history and details. I am glad it changed your mind to build cities slower, hope you'll enjoy it as much as I do.
The constructionlots are not available anywhere, but I am working on 4 sets at the moment: Roadconstruction set, Highway construction set, bridgebuilding set and Logging set. Once finished and finetuned , these will be up for download. Might take awhile to rerender each of them with better textures (they were done quickly for this CJ), have them tweaked properly by a real Pro and make sure everything needed is included. Right now I am busy with RL, the GRV II Challenge and this CJ, but don't worry, it'll come one day. ;). If you need any of my unavailable Nexislots urgently, just pm me, I could send you the original Beta versions.

bat, Thanks and come back.

We will go back to Access Junction later tonight with a short update, it's been a couple of months now that the highway was finished in this area and has moved a couple miles down into the rivervalley and new folks have installed themselves at the intersection. Nothing much but of course a small story that comes along with it and maybe some interesting details.


Always looking for some folks to participate with a character in my story.


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on April 26, 2009, 09:59:53 AM
The party Has Started
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mike3775 on April 26, 2009, 02:41:35 PM
Thanks for the update on those lots.  Take your time,  and I'll grab them when they are uploaded. 
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 26, 2009, 08:20:43 PM

Here is a small update again of the Winding River Project.
Only a couple of months later and Access Junction has offcially become a small municipality, although only 22 regular residents are living in or nearby. But as an important strategic location, Access Junction has good chances to become a successful town one day. As the overview shows, some more homes and small buissnesses have arrived. The construction of the sawmill was postponed because of the wintermonths, but just started again.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg24.imageshack.us%2Fimg24%2F918%2F1lakesteadcountyovervie.jpg&hash=a142656cd8cd4365e901679c0d20ed2addfa927e)

Already some plans for extensions have been made by several landowners, the newly chosen mayor Davy Greyston and actual citizens of Access Junction. On the picture below we can see some of the residential roads planned in the near future.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg24.imageshack.us%2Fimg24%2F8964%2F2lakesteadcountyplan.jpg&hash=2695734ef468e5a7adfceb27f176f180dcb6dbb8)

The game that started as a friendly meeting of the all kinds of workers has become more serious, as they have now once every three month a small tournament of soccer. John Gabber, Mike and several others are participating in this confrontation with players from another construction site.  

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg24.imageshack.us%2Fimg24%2F5749%2F3lakesteadcountygame.jpg&hash=482680228f25e91d8876c9c3706cd0decc12b9ea)

Here's a view of "downtown" Access Jct. Even a  gas-station with a convenience store was built this winter. Although the highway is not officially opened yet, many people travel along on it to come to the highway constructionsite further down, but also traveling to the access road and people that live in this area already.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg24.imageshack.us%2Fimg24%2F5577%2F4lakesteadcountydowntow.jpg&hash=a14197c066ad32de73a22759c96320459ce609b0)

One of the most demanded commercial businesses are restaurants at this intersection, and every two months or so, another one pops up. They are full every noon of workers, loggers, architects, formen and truckers. Upper left is a trainwagon transformed to a restaurant that was hauled here only last week.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg24.imageshack.us%2Fimg24%2F5461%2F5lakesteadcountyrestos.jpg&hash=c246ebfaaa1213e4e75577451fc1a1c24f6aea58)

With some subventions from the government and a donation from the son of Mr Racsan, Guy Racsan who is a Bluebay College Graduate in Engineering, a small powerproducing diesel unit and a watertower with a pump were built just in the backyard of the new Slye-Gabber sawmill. Now they have water and electricity in Access Jct.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg24.imageshack.us%2Fimg24%2F2292%2F6lakesteadcountypower.jpg&hash=4b0dda8212dd6e64c271b1d9f9b0ee91090c8c28)

The foundations of the new sawmill were layed and in a couple of weeks some of the buildings will be standing and waiting to function. Young TS is quite happy now, spending most of his days looking after the constructions and watching his dream grow.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg24.imageshack.us%2Fimg24%2F559%2F7lakesteadcountyslyegab.jpg&hash=c0738801abb67dd4fd12299922b36a6bb55d5a38)

Meanwhile a few km's from there further north, the whole highway construction came to a full stop when one of the workers found some petrified rocks that look like a dinosaure. Everybody saw the pile of "rocks", the loggers even have cut all the trees around it without realizing what it was, until one of the workers took his dinnerbox on top of it and while eating his lunch he started to look around and realized that it were petrified bones of some kind all around him. The government was informed right away, so was John Gabber who came to the site instantly with Mike, the program manager and Grandpa Gabber.  
««John started to wonder, while looking at Mike and his father: " First the stoneskulls at the small creek, then the crushed airplane in the lake and now this, a dinosaure?," Mike shook his shoulder while Grandpa Gabber said," You know, it seems like a lot of hidden stuff here, I think we haven't even seen anything yet. Do you guys realize the size of the region and imagine what could be hidden here? This is still undiscovered country" John answered right away, " Ha...it wouldn't surprize me to find Atlantis on the next highwaycorner," bursting out in a good laugh together with Mike and Grandpa.»»

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg24.imageshack.us%2Fimg24%2F1396%2F8lakesteadcountydinovie.jpg&hash=3f1b3ffbc1f73f4fa7b4a851b946003346f2fb5e)

This is surely one important find and the government will probably make sure that it will be well preserved, maybe even moved to Capitol City's historical museum.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg24.imageshack.us%2Fimg24%2F4940%2F9lakesteadcountydinofou.jpg&hash=a268a4c1d5b4f68ee58c1ebb1de2ef95a19b1646)

That's it again, I'll be back later this week. Now I've got to take care of the GRV II Challenge for a few days. Hope you again liked this update. Thanks for leaving a comment and drop in to encourage.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: metarvo on April 26, 2009, 08:29:53 PM
Oh, yes, it seems like you've learned how to use the RHW.  Between the dinosaur bones and the giant skulls from earlier, I would say that the Winding River area might have quite a museum one day, but it's your choice.  Keep up the good work, Fred!

:thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbarossaS on April 27, 2009, 03:05:12 AM
Wow, first the skulls, then the downed plane and now a dinosaur. Wonder what more the wilderness over there has in store for us  :P
Lovely small update by the way Fred, I'm glad TS' sawmill is under construction  :thumbsup:
Love the soccer game too, I'm a fervent soccer player myself, so I think I know how serious these tournements are for the workers  :P

-Stijn-
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mike3775 on April 27, 2009, 05:23:18 AM
I want to live here  :)


Great update
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on April 27, 2009, 09:21:47 AM
The Racsan family have shown interest of opening a water botteling next to the powerplant

http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=4530 here the building we are planning to build ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on April 27, 2009, 10:34:23 AM
Great new update there! It looks really nice! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 27, 2009, 12:26:03 PM
Quote from: metarvo on April 26, 2009, 08:29:53 PM
Oh, yes, it seems like you've learned how to use the RHW.
Not sure, but this time something worked out fine (more or less)..... :) 

Quote from: metarvo on April 26, 2009, 08:29:53 PMBetween the dinosaur bones and the giant skulls from earlier, I would say that the Winding River area might have quite a museum one day, but it's your choice. 

Hm.....looks like you got the idea.  ;)

Quote from: mike3775 on April 27, 2009, 05:23:18 AM
I want to live here  :)
Great update

Make up a character and pm me with the details (name,age,profession now later etc) and I'll make sure you'll find a spot to live there. Deal?

NASCAR_Guy, not in this town, but another one that will come soon enough. Good idea.

Quote from: BarbarossaS on April 27, 2009, 03:05:12 AM
Wow, first the skulls, then the downed plane and now a dinosaur. Wonder what more the wilderness over there has in store for us.

Who knows?

Thanks bat.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: turtle on April 27, 2009, 01:01:45 PM
Nice update  :thumbsup:
It's good fun to read the story, and I bet you also enjoy playing the game more when you make up all these small details :)
The pictures are very convincing!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mike3775 on April 27, 2009, 01:16:35 PM
Quote from: turtle on April 27, 2009, 01:01:45 PM
Nice update  :thumbsup:
It's good fun to read the story, and I bet you also enjoy playing the game more when you make up all these small details :)
The pictures are very convincing!

That is very true.  Reading this entire thread, I decided to try my hand at building a metropolis nice and slow, and the amount of time its taking is staggering, but I am enjoying it immensely.  I can only imagine Fred taking his time and really enjoying it as well
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on April 27, 2009, 01:53:23 PM
 ;D Nice idea this dinosaur. You surely have to do a museum over there.  Good job  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on April 27, 2009, 03:34:52 PM
Wow awsome dinosaur! Is that place going to turn into a town?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on April 27, 2009, 06:36:23 PM
awesome stuff shame, palaentology was considered cool by so few people before a certain movie came out...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 27, 2009, 06:53:44 PM
Again thanks for the comments.
turtle, of course I enjoy playing this MD ;) and like mike3775 says, it is much more pleasant to build a city slowly and remembering everything that you did while it grows.
mightygoose, you' re talking about Jurassic?

Quote from: danielcote on April 27, 2009, 03:34:52 PM
Wow awsome dinosaur! Is that place going to turn into a town?
...........what do You think? I guess it might have an influence on something for sure.

I am still new on SC4D and haven't open a BAT-thread yet, but I make BATs everyday now. Anyways, I started on that sawmill that the Slye fellow and Gabber are building at the moment in the story. Not much done yet, but the basics start to make it look like something. I might as well show the advancement here for the moment.
Of course details like junkroof, sawdust mound, rails to bring in the logs, rails to take out the planks/boards, fans, logs and woodpiles, chips etc etc are still to be done. I'll keep you informed. It is based on the sawmill that we have in this area, quite a big one too.

Fred

Just the basic bldg...................

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg242.imageshack.us%2Fimg242%2F2483%2Fsawmill1.jpg&hash=742f32149dae82b2be8a3c10b22722dad6f9ddb6)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on April 27, 2009, 08:12:51 PM
OMG Fred amazing stuff here wow!!! I missed a few and I am sorry about that!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: RustyXL on April 27, 2009, 09:37:59 PM
The sawmill looks pretty good so far. I like that old trolley that was turned into a diner on the last page. Do you have a version of it with the trucks, pantographs, etc. still installed?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 27, 2009, 10:07:38 PM
Quote from: RustyXL on April 27, 2009, 09:37:59 PM
The sawmill looks pretty good so far. I like that old trolley that was turned into a diner on the last page. Do you have a version of it with the trucks, pantographs, etc. still installed?

You mean a trolley resto like on the one on the last page with pantographs on top and some trucks in front, as a truckstop? I could modify this one a little. It has a pantograph type on top, but we can hardly see it, maybe I made it too small.

Pat, you should come more often not to miss anything, besides this CJ/MD won't go anywhere else..... ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbyW on April 27, 2009, 11:48:23 PM
As always this has a great stry line and I can see it being as extensive as GoN one day. Your attention to detail never fails to amaze me. Anxiously awaiting your props now ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on April 28, 2009, 01:25:37 AM
The sawmill is shaping up nicely, both the lot and the building. They're sure taking their time with it though (although I'm glad they waited to pour the foundations after the thaw). The building looks great and I've always been a fan of your creations. I have a few Nexis products that go way back. I also love the streetcar diner. I know there have been a few attempts made at those in places with varying degrees of success. I wish that one luck.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: RustyXL on April 28, 2009, 09:10:55 AM
Quote from: mrbisonm on April 27, 2009, 10:07:38 PM
You mean a trolley resto like on the one on the last page with pantographs on top and some trucks in front, as a truckstop? I could modify this one a little. It has a pantograph type on top, but we can hardly see it, maybe I made it too small.

Sorry I should have been more clear, I meant a version of it as an operating trolley instead of one taken apart and turned into a restaurant.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on April 28, 2009, 03:19:52 PM
Nice render on the saw mill cant wait until its put on a lot.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 03, 2009, 10:59:11 AM
Just to let you all know that I am still alive, but I am very busy in RL and also with the GRV II Challenge that is going at its max roght now. I haven't had much time for this CJ, but don't worry, I will be back soon. Just give me a week or two and we'll be back into the story.

I havebeen doing some BATting though, 15 minutes every night before going to bed, and this is what I cam up with sofar. This is a pre-render of the sawmill that will be in Access Junction.

See you soon


Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg528.imageshack.us%2Fimg528%2F9939%2Fsawmill.jpg&hash=33a8361a11af8398e438f92c914a91eb06f8bccc)



Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kwakelaar on May 03, 2009, 12:25:43 PM
A nice story line, and the images of the constructions sites and the growing town are very good.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 03, 2009, 08:42:28 PM
Here's a little teaser.........so you won't get bored while waiting.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg140.imageshack.us%2Fimg140%2F1900%2Faccessjunctionsawmill.jpg&hash=78e74e8142793b58492ebd6361b7773206f9fd40)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on May 04, 2009, 12:51:10 AM
I like it! There's no rush on things Fred. Good things are worth the wait, and GRV has a deadline, whereas this can move at your leisure. We'll be here when you have the time.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbarossaS on May 04, 2009, 12:53:54 AM
Looking good Fred, can't wait to see it in a full update!  :thumbsup:

-Stijn-
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Sciurus on May 05, 2009, 09:18:24 AM
This warehouse is very good BATted &apls

Guillaume :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on May 07, 2009, 02:53:05 PM
lookin good is that place going to turn into a town?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on May 11, 2009, 05:51:33 AM
This is a nice looking warehouse.
Some comment: I think the roof is a bit too white, or maybe it is a bit too new? Some corrugation, dirt or greyishness would be realistic. Also the piles of sawdust look a bit too smooth, although in real life this kind of pile would look smooth too, if photographed from this distance, I guess.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on May 11, 2009, 06:01:51 AM
that logging party is brilliant... i can almost hear the chainsaws.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 12, 2009, 08:25:26 AM
Quote from: danielcote on May 07, 2009, 02:53:05 PM
lookin good is that place going to turn into a town?

.........maybe even into a small city....

FrankU , if you follow my story you'll see that the logging shed is being build with NEW materials of course and that 's why the roof looks so new. I have tried it with more *used* textures, but it simply wouldn't fit into my story with a slightly rusty or spotted roof, and since it is not being uploaded publically in this state I thought it would be just perfect for my MD/CJ.
For the sawdust pile, yes it could have had a slightly more textured color but like for the roof, it will look also newly sawed dust. The first sawdust ever in this area.

I am working on a complete logging pack to be uploaded one day after it has been revised,retextured, tested and tweaked by BarbyW, it will be quite big and you will find almost everything you see in this MD/CJ, but with different and hopefully much better looking *used* textures. Oh....it will be some kind of a modular set, instead of one big lot that always looks the same everytime you'll plopp it. Soon you can have two sawmills in one city that will look different.

That was some party if I may say, Goose....lol

There will be a short update this coming weekend. See ya then,

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on May 13, 2009, 01:03:19 AM
Thanks Fred,
Of course I was thinking about using it myself..... Sorry for being selfish.
In your MD it should be new indeed, so it's good.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on May 14, 2009, 04:51:24 AM
Welcome to page 13!

That building is great! And nice teaser! Looking forward to more... ;) :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 15, 2009, 12:03:11 PM
Quote from: FrankU on May 13, 2009, 01:03:19 AM
Thanks Fred,
Of course I was thinking about using it myself..... Sorry for being selfish.
In your MD it should be new indeed, so it's good.

Using it for yourself? No problem, I will make a more "used look" one to upload. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Livin in Sim on May 21, 2009, 06:44:28 AM
Fred, I can tell that you're a guy that as he goes about his day looks at a particular, visually interesting feature of the surroundings and says to himself, "Now, how can I work that into the game?  How can I BAT it, lot it, or use what's already there to depict it, and then share it with others?"  It's often something that I've wished was in the game myself.  Another reason I find your MD so engrossing is how you show the construction of the road and other details that stretch the SC4 boundaries.  BAT notwithstanding, I've messed around with the LE enough to know how much work that actually is, as most of us do.  As far as a hobby goes, we've all gotten our money's worth out of this game.  Thanks to you and the other talented folks in the community, it's the gift that just keeps on giving.  I love a good story, and I love SC4, long may they be together, in works like this and Bordertown. 

Please greet Lynn for me, and bye for now.
--Liv
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Swesim on May 21, 2009, 07:26:18 AM
It is always fun to read storybased MDs as long as they make decent progress which I certainly feel that You are doing here.
You´ll have to make build some sort of tourist trap based on that skeleton, that way John and Mike can add some simoleons for use in their construction projects in the area...
I am very curious to see what will turn up in the future in this region, the region is rather big as they said.
It draws my mind towards the TV-series "Lost"...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on May 21, 2009, 09:29:31 AM
I've missed so much during this busy month!  Amazing work as always.  That new sawmill looks great, just like many of your other creations.  You really do have some talent with the bat tool! 

I'd love to get my hands on a vast number of the custom products you've made for your lumber industry in the diary!  Can't blame you for wanting to keep them to yourself for a while though, they really fit your project beautifully here!  Keep it up! 
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 24, 2009, 11:45:58 AM
Quote from: Livin in Sim on May 21, 2009, 06:44:28 AM
Fred, I can tell that you're a guy that as he goes about his day looks at a particular, visually interesting feature of the surroundings and says to himself, "Now, how can I work that into the game?  How can I BAT it, lot it, or use what's already there to depict it, and then share it with others?"  It's often something that I've wished was in the game myself.  Another reason I find your MD so engrossing is how you show the construction of the road and other details that stretch the SC4 boundaries.  BAT notwithstanding, I've messed around with the LE enough to know how much work that actually is, as most of us do.  As far as a hobby goes, we've all gotten our money's worth out of this game.  Thanks to you and the other talented folks in the community, it's the gift that just keeps on giving.  I love a good story, and I love SC4, long may they be together, in works like this and Bordertown. 

Please greet Lynn for me, and bye for now.
--Liv

Thanks Livin in Sim for those wondeful words, you understood well the game and me.... ;) I am glad you enjoyed my MD sofar, and I can't wait to continue it as soon as possible. Your greetings to Lynn are returned.

Swesim, glad to have you here and I am also glad that you like the story , there's much to much, so much that there is not enought time to tell all.

Battlecat, hope you got time now to catch up with us, while I am taking a little break with this MD. Most of the bATs you've seen will be for upload one day, just mention the ones you want and I will tell you if they will or will not be uploaded. If not, I can always send you these to you or anyone elase, just say so.


This MD/CJ should be back in action by the end of next week, beginning of june. Sorry for being late, but real life and the "Bordertown Competition" have kept me and my wife Lynn quite busy. It should all be back to normal in the next couple of days and I will open my game again to play, create and tell the story of the Winding River Project. Maybe a little teaser later tonight.???

Did John  Gabber really sold his newly build weekend cottage on the lake to Mike Allheimer? Where exactly is the new land that he purchased, is it as beautiful as the first?. Will Little Billy like the new settings of the cottage? How about the Racsan's, where does that mysterious gated private road of theirs lead? How about the Slye kid, did he finally get his sawmill going?  Some of these will come in the next update and some maybe later tonight.
Oh, btw, I cannot confirm it, but I heard that a new kid in town has arrived in Access Junction and building something that everyone is asking questions about.......

;)

Fred


Still looking for some folks that want to have their own character in my story, I have room for a dozen or so. Now is the time to apply.


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 24, 2009, 08:42:38 PM
I just wanted to give you a small update so you don't think that I have forgotten this MD/CJ.

Everything is going normal in the Winding River region, now that spring just started and everyone is back on their job, building the Highway 15 of course. John Gabber finally got his weekend home plan from the young Michael Arven and has someone from Bluebay building his new Weekend house. This time it will be a loghome, one of those that everyone would like to own for their personal retreat.
John has trusted his new sawmill partner Young Slye with the job to find the best of the best logs throughout the thousands that one can find just laying around piled along the access road, as we have seen in earlier pictures. The choice should soon be done and then they will be shipped to the new sawmill in Access Junction and prepared for the construction site on the Grasslake's peninsula.

The foundations are already done and preparing of the surroundings is underway. The new location of the Gabber's retreat is north of the old one that John Gabber supposingly sold to Mike Allheimer, his Project Manager of the Highway 15 Project through the valley. It is built on a more beautiful spot with a much better view of the whole lake and while having closer access to deeper waters, it will be easier for a hydroplane to land without worrying to hit a treestump or a rock hidden just beneath the shallow waters of the southern bay of the lake.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg34.imageshack.us%2Fimg34%2F7782%2F1grasslakeview.jpg&hash=10515fc3f321015e0ecb3d63effc3e0ace8df478)

A closer picture reveils already the dimensions and the shape of their new weekend home. This time the loghome will be finished before fall arrives, they say, while there are more than just one worker on the job. Maybe it will be done before the first house.

The bulldozer came in yesterday and it is his job now to create a beautiful beach reaching into these crystal clear waters of the Grasslake.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg34.imageshack.us%2Fimg34%2F5536%2F2grasslakegabberschalet.jpg&hash=e99024faec2c73f5be3cfa930e0e64f13cc96f58)

Click the link below to see a full view of the region at this date (spring of 1960), it is a big picture. Indications on it will explain all the advancements of this MD/CJ.

http://img34.imageshack.us/my.php?image=3windingriverproject2.jpg

I will surely be back with a real update before or during the next weekend. Thanks for the patience.  ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on May 25, 2009, 02:59:04 AM
Wow i love that regional view , are you going to build a lumber yard along the riverbanks or lumber port for lumber to shipped down the river to other communities?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on May 25, 2009, 03:13:13 AM
Only the best wood of course, but when it's stacked to thick and the woods around are so dense and old, it's hard not to grab the good stuff just grabbing blind (though I'm sure his eyes were open when he made his selections of course). Nice foundations for the house, and a nice progression to the story.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 25, 2009, 08:21:17 AM
Quote from: Nexis4Jersey on May 25, 2009, 02:59:04 AM
Wow i love that regional view , are you going to build a lumber yard along the riverbanks or lumber port for lumber to shipped down the river to other communities?

Well, I can't really answer that, because it would give away some of the story, maybe a nice surprise with new BATs, or maybe something else, who knows, someone just might build some rails through the region, then on the other hand..... maybe not.

Thanks Threestooges,  the choice of lumber for the loghome is so great, they don't even have to dig up out of a pile any of them. There are miles and miles of stagged logs along the access road, just waiting to be picked up and trnasferred to the new sawmill. Besides, logs that have been stored for a longer period under other logs are not the best of the best because internal heat has already have them started to rot.

Fred

Edit: Could anyone please explain how to attach files to this post. Thanks.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TheTeaCat on May 25, 2009, 10:24:52 AM
Quote from: mrbisonm on May 25, 2009, 08:21:17 AM
Edit: Could anyone please explain how to attach files to this post. Thanks.

All you have to do is click on the additional options below the box where you make you post :D
there you have the option to attach files.

hope that helps Mr B.

:satisfied:
TTC
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on May 25, 2009, 12:05:12 PM
You said something about being in your CJ. So my name is Alex Puto and uh... I guess I apply.

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 25, 2009, 01:51:13 PM
Quote from: TheTeaCat on May 25, 2009, 10:24:52 AM
All you have to do is click on the additional options below the box where you make you post :D
there you have the option to attach files.

hope that helps Mr B.

:satisfied:
TTC


Hm.........I don't think we have the same "Additional Options".....................

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg30.imageshack.us%2Fimg30%2F5759%2F4562456.jpg&hash=7e5709be1f4c78b23ff74b85a624946b1bf9b3db)


Quote from: Driftmaster07 on May 25, 2009, 12:05:12 PM
You said something about being in your CJ. So my name is Alex Puto and uh... I guess I apply.

Alex

Ok, send me a PM with full name of your character, in which town, village or city he was born and lives now and wants to live later, his age when entering the story (5 to 65), a little of his background (studies, family etc) and what he wants to do in his simlife (job, marriagem, kids etc) in the Winding River Story. Maybe some more details like futur happenings, chances or miseries. The rest I will take off.


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TheTeaCat on May 25, 2009, 02:27:03 PM
Yes it does seem to differ.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi201.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Faa148%2Ftheteacat%2F05-25-2009_22-18-28.jpg&hash=b2c9d4a384d02917aec0cec7fa45503622e46fc4)
&idea It could be one of the extra features for being a subscriber (it's really cheap to become one :thumbsup:)
The save as draft is a really handy feature - worth subscribing for alone  :thumbsup:

Still got space for a character?
I'll try to get some background worked out for you :D

regards
Derry

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: RippleJet on May 25, 2009, 02:49:15 PM
Quote from: TheTeaCat on May 25, 2009, 02:27:03 PM
&idea It could be one of the extra features for being a subscriber (it's really cheap to become one :thumbsup:)

Quite correct, Derry! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on May 25, 2009, 03:17:05 PM
I can't wait until that arias fully developed! Its Grrrrreat
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Orange_o_ on May 25, 2009, 03:23:21 PM
It is certainly one of the most interesting project  &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 25, 2009, 06:32:58 PM
TTC, just pm me with all the details asked above. Welcome.
I guess that suscriber means being a donator, right? Well, I think it is time to become one.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on May 26, 2009, 12:58:32 AM
Fred, check out this page to become a subscriber:

http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=45;sa=subscriptions

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on May 26, 2009, 12:01:51 PM
The region overview looks quite cool.  Very interesting features around the area already!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 26, 2009, 06:25:39 PM
Quote from: JoeST on May 26, 2009, 12:58:32 AM
Fred, check out this page to become a subscriber:

http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?action=profile;u=45;sa=subscriptions

Joe

Thanks for the linkie Joe, appreciated.

Glad you dropped by Battlecat
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 27, 2009, 05:47:50 PM
««9:48 Pm, the phone rings in the Gabber House and John himself answers, wondering who in the world could call so late. " John?" nervously spoken by the nightly intruder, " Man, we 've got a serious problem." The Young Slye fellow yelled into the phone, " I just got home from the sawmill and another four guys left their jobs today, we're burning them out one by one and I can't find anyone anymore who wants to drive an hour and a half, work 12 hrs and then drive another 90 minutes home, that's just too much for them," John got his wrinkles on the forehead back, which means serious thinking again. " Listen Terry" John replies, "We're in this together. I have been leaving you all alone handling the whole sawmill in the last month, sorry 'bout this, but I was too darn busy with the highway contract. I have an idea though to get this solved, meet me tomorrow morning at Lucy's Truckstop in Access Junction.....eh...." thinking again" let's say around 8:30 AM, is that ok? " TS agreed to the time, " But what have you in mind now again, John?"..." Well Terry, this will work out, I am pretty sure. I'll talk to you tomorrow, now get some sleep and don't think about this anymore. See ya."  
John hooked up the phone and looked at his wife shaking his head, " The kid has a labour problem, I'll fix that tomorrow." smilingly he went off to the bedroom.»»

One month has gotten into this new year's spring already and warmer weather is just about to enter the season. The sawmill was finished about a month ago and has gotten into a rush fulltime already, not leaving one day off for Terry Slye, who runs the whole thing almost by himself now. 108 men are working there now and some are leaving everyday because of the overtime they have to do. The logs are waiting on the side of the roads all over the place in the Winding River Region and they have to be gathered and cut into constructionwood as soon as possible before they start rotten in these humid forests during the warmer and wet season.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F54%2F1sawmillaccessjct.jpg&hash=9e2c0251a7bc625742c16f1275ece29c4dfd3ec9)

The first thing in the morning John called up Mike Allheimer , his project manager for highway 15, his father Henry and the foreman Andy Dubold, the responsable of all the loggers and told them to join him with TS at Lucy's truck stop for a good breakfast.
Andy, the logger's boss is now way up ahead of the highway with his men and John hasn't talked to him for more than two weeks, Grandpa Henry works on the plans and surveying the highway and him also, John hasn't seen for awhile. But he sees Mike almost everyday, giving him the report of the highway project of the day. He wants to have everyone around when he pronounces his "new project".

They met at Lucy's Truck stop, well known for the best breakfast and dinner now to everyone who came through the Access Junction area. Lucy had a small gazstation built a few months ago, with her profits from the restaurant, another excellent investment in Access Junction.

Entering the restaurant, John was welcomed with open arms by Lucy herself, a single strong woman in her fourties that could turn a fullsized man upside down in a second if he ain't nice enough. She was pointing to all the others that were already nipping that hot black coffee.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F5682%2F2restolucy.jpg&hash=7d7706516974b5c384ed6dfdecc4d80af31eff08)

««" Hey guys, how come you're so early?" John said with a smile, approaching the table and looking at his watch, telling him he was 20 minutes late,"Usually you're always late".
That got an answer from Grandpa Henry Gabber,
" Hell boy, you sounded so dam serious this morning , how could we not be on time ? What's up? And how come You're soo dam late again?." ,starring at his son with wide open eyes and waiting eagerly for an explanation of this meeting.
" Oh c'mon Pa, you know that I just wanted to see you all together again, it's been awhile, didn't you miss me?" John couldn't resist to be a little sarcastic.
Mike started laughing, knowing too well that his friend and boss has something else in mind.
"Slye here told me last night that he has a serious problem with finding workers for the sawmill." John started talking while his cup of coffee was brought to him, "There's simply not enough men available to work 12 hrs and drive 3 hrs a day to get here."
"Pay them more", Henry loudly added with a smile.
" No Pa, it's not that, we already pay them quite a bit, I have another idea, but I need your help guys because the whole project is getting a bite out of this. Up on the highway construction site, they say the loggers are too slow, then the loggers say that they don't have enough room to pile the logs and the truckers complain, they'll never finish and Slye is more than overload. So you see, this is a common problem to all of us."»»

Then John got right into the subject explaining every detail how he sees the solution for this. The meeting lasted about 2 hours and then everyone returned to their jobs. John and Slye just walked over to the sawmill to have a detailed look at what's happening there.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F2914%2F3sawmillview.jpg&hash=946809636c8e2892b3fa9f688153de697f353339)

«« Holy mackerel, you weren't kidding when you said that the yard is full." John astoundingly said." We need a good 50 more men to run this place properly. I'm pretty sure my plan works." assuring Slye with a sideway smile. »»

Here are some detailed pictures of the Slye and Gabber sawmill in Access Junction.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F6197%2F4sawmillcloseup.jpg&hash=6d1cb4cf930f889b449dfa1410c176556719fa2c)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F2025%2F5sawmillcloseup.jpg&hash=70b1f7db95e5ad9dafea3d8c3a2910dabb434549)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F2443%2F6sawmillcloseup.jpg&hash=ae1701427ee5b9508eb2c4aa61936d7b64e48fbb)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F1448%2F7sawmillcloseup.jpg&hash=7e589411ef76f76b42c7a5f942facfca5c430748)

Downtown, if we yet can say so, of Access Center has become busy in the last few months. Lucy, the owner of the Truckstop, saw an excellent idea to make some more bucks in this place while opening a gazstation on the corner of the access road and highway 15. Everyone else said why they haven't thought of this. The old steakhouse is still there too, being open only for suppertimes nowadays and some new stores just openend last week beside it, a convenience store and a working clothes boutique, both being busy already.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F3071%2F8downtownaccessjct.jpg&hash=d9a456f3aed3aaa014af5de85279d46d25ead916)

Further east on the access road, residential developments have started and even some nice homes were built by folks that believe in the future of Access Center.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F1394%2F9residentials.jpg&hash=f6fd74786d67f9123e2bd45abecf3fd1f3e15f1e)

Then up the highway a few yards, Mr Wrightman open his tool and machinery repair shop, something that'll surely works with the sawmill just on the other sides and so many machinery being used that need regular maintenance and repairs on the highway and logging jobs. John Gabber calls this the *industrial park*, whenever he talks abou it...lol....far from that though. Raymond Willerson from Fitch Bay opened a small paintproducing plant, specializing in roadpaints. like the white and yellow lines. He was offered to do so by the Gabber Company, knowing that roadpaints will be needed for the next 60 miles of Highway and so many new roads and streets that are being build now.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F682%2F10industries.jpg&hash=b49f18002ae9c622b346b636a8e4b1af75835e6e)

So this is what Access Junction has become, the first and small but fast growing Intersection of Highway 15 and the Bluebay Access Road. We will come back to this place every once of their months and show some details of this growing community. Keep that picture and compare it to the future ones coming, changes will be remarkable and interesting for quite some time to come. Could this be the beginning of the Mega City of the future
Things to come to Access Jct are some changes concerning the power and a new aquaduct, then some folks are talking about a meeting hall or something, where the community can gather once in awhile and some new residences for future workers so badly needed all over the area.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F6251%2F11overlook.jpg&hash=3f9fe1c996cae5c6a786a1248affb28eecdab35f)

We have been to Valmore South once before, remember when they dug up the dinosaur bones? Well, they have almost reached the end of this county by now, building the highway. The construction was interupted by the federal government after the finds of the petrified bones and a study showed that these bones could not be transferred anywhere else without crumbling into pieces and get lost forever. So they decided to superficially solidify the whole skelleton right there and build a protecting roof over it soon. Of course Highway 15 was shifted to the west for a few yards, which wasn't too much of a problem for the Gabbers who are the builders. The highway just continues in this direction until a few hundred yards before the small Valmore river where it will get back into its original path in Valmore North.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F6986%2F12hgwy15view.jpg&hash=479d326c90fd8c581f644fea508e2582cc3dc2ba)

After two weeks of closure, the highway construction finally gets back into movement. Again here, they have the problem to store the cut logs for the highway's path. Some folks from Access Junction even come and pick up illegally their yearly supply of heating wood without any offcials saying a word. *Too much wood is like not enough* Grandpa Henry once said. There isn't enough sawmills, workers and construction needs around he says.
There's a lot more need of construction wood up north in Frampton though, which is a fast growing City, but shipping is too far and slow and doesn't pay a fair rentability. All is done by trucks and most of the finished planks go to the south, to Bluebay, which also has some growing to do, but they started to fill up their inventories too.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F9637%2F13dinosaurbones1.jpg&hash=4a98dc1d615e5923c09f20a95646e7957c571d21)

Since a month a guard was hired by the government and a 24 hr survey of the archeological finds are now official until a fence and a roof is build. Biologists and Archeologists are working on this find around the clock trying to figure out to what species this could relate. Beside some pieces being broke up, the skelleton seems to be complete and since yesterday, two University professors have made a discovery that there's a possibility that this animal was hunted and killed with primitive tools, which is completely insane to some and impossible to others. Humanoids were not yet developped at this era. They only appeared a hundred of thousand years after. Hm.....?

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F5630%2F14dinosaurbones2.jpg&hash=f5f97eca9ddfea06f595602495710aff9c79b725)

Here at the very end of highway 15 we see that logging scenery again that we have seen in the Grasslake county, cutting, pulling out the logs, bulldozing and filling the terrain and preparing everything for the highway-building department. The road on the upper left leads to a waterpoint on the banks of the Lower Valmore lake. The terrain is very gravely and sandy around this area and the President of MGS, Gary Gabber, also John's brother, is about to have a big gravelpit dug out right here, to produce the important fine sands and gravels for the basic groundcover and also the sands for the cementproducing that they need to build the two big bridges over the large Winding River further up north. Impossible to bring in the cememt from Bluebay, it will be hard dried once arrived. This area contains enough of the raw materials needed to finish the highway through the whole region.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F6914%2F15logginghighway.jpg&hash=f538f4c48b85ce7afe6bb03b0db20f323a96998c)

And at last a regional picture again to show you the minor changes and the advancement of highway 15.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F9696%2F16accessjunction12.jpg&hash=fefcbc52e1d7c5d5d6713cc7404d324fae86ecf8)

Hope you liked this update again, and I will be back in a few days with some more.
John got some news from the government concerning his new project for the needed logging and sawmill workers. Also Billy is sent to a private school many hundreds of miles away, which he does not agree with at all. And a new important member of the regional working force will be introduced. Hm,....there are rumours that some bandits rode in the area lately.......and a fieldmarker mysteriously disappeared further up in the woods.......

Have a nice rest of the week and an even better beginning of a weekend, where I will be back with more of the Winding River Project story.

Thanks for commenting.

Fred ;)

Btw, the sawmill BAT is a modular set of 10 different lots. I will re-do the textures to make them a little more worn, because for this story they needed to be like newly built, and then I will have it tweaked for upload later this spring.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on May 27, 2009, 07:36:56 PM
Superb update!  Nice to hear you've got the time to get another update together!  The finished lumber yard looks excellent, you've put some good, careful thought into the details there.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on May 28, 2009, 01:06:59 AM
I agree with Battlecat, that was fantastic :)

Cant wait to see what the new project is :D and (me being pedantic) its a tad late for spring now, nearly June :D

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on May 28, 2009, 06:15:17 AM
great o finally see a full update, cant wait to here more about my guy's down the river
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on May 28, 2009, 11:53:43 AM
that sawmill/ lumberyard is truly ace. great to hear of the continuing story....
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on May 28, 2009, 12:10:33 PM
I really liked the update! But how did that dinosaur be killed?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 30, 2009, 08:48:38 AM
Quote from: Driftmaster07 on May 28, 2009, 12:10:33 PM
I really liked the update! But how did that dinosaur be killed?

I don't know, it seems like it was killed with a primitive weapon of some kind, or at least that what the biologists and archeologists said.....hm?
mightygoose, I hope to be able to upload the sawmill  soon, glad you like it.
NASCAR_Guy, well, here is an update of your character, seems like he's up to something important. ;)
Battlecat, JoeST, thanks for the comments, much appreciated.

Back to another update:


There's nothing more pleasing to a fullgrown familyman at the end of a hard earned week than taking a beer in the presence of good friends on a friday late afternoon. That must be surely what John Gabber is thinking every friday eversince the new Terracebar has opened on the former Steakhouse lot in Access Junction. Built by Albert Olsen, this building replaces the Steakhouse which lately burnt down.
At around 6Pm Gabber and his friends gather like every friday since a month to drink one or two beers before heading home. Today John, Mike, Slye and Andy have met and take part in a discussion about the Access Jct news, now that it has its first trafficlight after so many accidents at the main-intersection.

««"This is nuts," John started smilingly,"only less than a year ago all we had right here was a big party in the field, when we finished the access road, and today it is a small village with a trafficlight and of 500 people residing here all year long."
Mike added,"Yeah, you're right John, it's amazing if you think of it now that it has a trafficlight....it changed a lot". Everyone else was nodding and mumbling their comment about the light.
"By the way guys", John continued, "my secretary called me last night about the idea I had to fill the joblist for the sawmill and the loggers" Slye opened wide his eyes to hear the results with impatience,
"the government gave us the OK to go ahead with the new housing project."
Slye jumped in and asked impatiently, "So, how many lots did we finally get?"
John couldn't resist and let a few seconds pass before answering, "Guess what......we got a l l  w e  n e e d.*
A big Woohoo filled the outside terrace at the Olsen Pub and Slye had one of those smiles could tell everything about satisfaction.»»

John Gabber demanded a residential project for Access Junction a little over a month ago, ever when workers started leaving the sawmill, logging site and highway construction site because of too many hours to do. People didn't want to travel for 3 hours each day while working 10 to 12 hours.
The idea that John had was to invite people to stay in the area, right here in Access Junction, build their homes and take care of their families while being close to work, but unfortunetly land was not yet available and the little land that was unzoned to build on was too expensive to buy.
Now the government decided in cooperation with the Gabber MGS to hand out one lot each for a very worker at a very low cost with a no interest loan and guarantee a job for the next 5 years.
If that doesn't bring in workers, then nothing will, John thought.

««" I heard that people around here are making all kind of demands now, "John continued, "things like needing a small school, because the kids have to travel 90 minutes also to get back into town, and then they said a busconnection with the town would be appreciated too."
Loughingly added by Andy with his bad accent, " A gess thay wand aye mayor too and whay nod a shirch whaile asken.Ha Ha."
"I know that Mr Wrightman and Lucy have mentioned that when Slye fully operates his sawmill, they're not getting enough energy to run their implements," Mike had to say.
" Yay, that's right Mike," TS said, "when I'm fully running the mill, others surely don't get enough. Our power producing diesel engine is not supplying enough, we need more, and that is gonna cost us a lot, I think."
" I just might know the right fellow for this problem," John added while lifting his right eyebrow, "If I mention to him this place and how it is growing, he just might throw in a few millions. He's always wating for opportunities like this to come to him. Give me a week and I'll talk to him," nodding positively his head.
" Ha, you must be talking about Tony Racsan, right?" Mike smiled at John.
"nah....not Tony," John replied, "more like Junior Racsan, forgot his first name, he's slowly overtaking his old man's matters and also looking at new opportunities. just like that." They all looked at each other and continued to discuss all kinds of subjects. Before John left the table he said, " Oh...and don't forget the game tomorrow afternoon, it's the Loggers against the Highway-workers»»

So the conversation went on for almost 2 hours, when slowly they all disappeared one by one only to go home and spend the weekend with the family.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg3.imageshack.us%2Fimg3%2F2559%2F1ajpub.jpg&hash=3f9eb7c6fd314264011fb77bb9b80bc94847c793)

The next day John left his home very early promissing to Billy that they will take the whole day of sunday to go on a fishing picnic at that skullhead creek, maybe with the whole family. Billy didn't like the idea with the family but because now that he knows that he has no choice but to go to a private summerschool to pick up what he missed during the fall and winter, he might as well join, because this might be the only day they'll have for fishing this summer.
Usually John doesn't work on saturdays, but today he had to go see what's going on with his weekend cottage, then see how Andy, the Logger's Chief, is doing in the Grasslake county with all that wood still on the side of the roads.
His logcottage is coming along quite well and he seems to like it. They have started the landscaping also, making sure that everything is flat enough for the lawn and beach.
John loves the way this loghome will look, Michael Arven has done an excellent job in designing it. Maybe he should hire him for his projects once the highway is finished and he reached maturity, being only 17 years old at the moment.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg3.imageshack.us%2Fimg3%2F8092%2F2grasslakehome3.jpg&hash=97b69f456520d648e893b3b0981845b7de1df1fb)

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On the way to Access Junction, he came across the open gate of the Racsan Property and then he thought that it might be an excellent idea to go look for Tony or his son Guy here and talk about the power they need in Access Junction. Also this will satisfy his curiosity once and for all to find out and see what they have been doing on their land in the last year, which has been bothering John a lot lately, seing all the traffic coming and going.
It seems like they built a house for a guardian or something at the entrance gate, but no one yet seems to live there, no curtains and no furnitures.

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At the first intersection John turned to the left on the more used part of the road and finally came to a big constructionsite near the Grasslake, the same lake that he has his cottage build. There he found the right guy he was looking for, Tony's son, Guy. He was there with Michael Arven, the young architect, but what was he doing there John wondered.

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««" Mr Gabber," Guy said to John when he got out of his pickup, " just about you I wanted to see, Sir. How are you?"
Reaching for a handshake, John gladly accepted and started talking, "Well, this is my lucky day, because I was looking for you and it seems like this is a mutual situation, right? But let me start first Guy, if I may call you so."
John started talking about the electricity problem they have in the village and then about all the futur projects they have overthere and how it is growing like crazy. And finally talks about the possibility to make a buck or two with this situation. As John somehow knew, it was an interesting subject to start with the son of one of the richest men in the region. Guy was all ears listening out John.
" I've heard enough," Guy all of sudden stopped John, " You got me interested and I also know that I can trust you sir. So, let us meet in my Offcice in downtown Bluebay and see what we can come up with. I am sure that Dad and I can do something about his situation."
Then after a two second breath, he said, " Now hear me out sir, why I wanted to meet you. We have been cutting a lot of timber during the winter to clear some land further up the road and we need a buyer. We know that you and Mr Slye just opened up the sawmill in Access and I was wondering if you're interested in a good offer."
Oh my!, John thought, as if they didn't have enough wood for the moment. What can he do now.
With a small smile he looked at Guy and said, "Of course, we didn't build that mill for nothing, but right now we're booked out for a month or so. The wood is a little cheap now, because there's too much at the moment, how much do you expect?"
Guy without hesitation nor too much thinking said," We don't expect a lot, we've seen all the logs on the side of the access road for miles and miles and can just imagine that the logs aren't at the best price. Dad just wants to get rid of it, not to spoil, you know, he hates throwing things away for nothing. Let's have a ride and I'll show you all the logs we have at the moment."»»

So here they took Guy's pickup and drove up the road in every direction. left and right and back. There were roads over roads and it was kinda confusing to John, why they had cut out pices here and there and made so many roads in all directions. John couldn't help asking Guy Racsan the reason for the irregular cutting, but without turning his head he only said that they had some projects for next year on their property and they both left this subject ending right there.

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They agreed on a date and hour to meet in the city's office for the energy matter in Access Junction, and John, after telling Guy that he was glad to have met him personnally, continued the road to Access Junction to be ontime for the monthly soccergame between the Loggers and the Highwayfolks. He plays for the Highway team and wouldn't miss this confrontation for anything. Mike also was on his side, but Slye, Andy and surprisingly his brother Gary were on the Logger's team.  

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This happens every month here on John's little property, an eight lot property bought in the beginning of the winding river project. John wants to keep this place as it is, so the people can fun with it every summer long.
The game lasted an hour and a half and the final score was a lowsy 2 to 1 for the loggers, who didn't have to come in working early on monday morning. Right after the game they all went to the Olsen Pub, just over the highway for some refreshing drinks and the victory of the loggers.
There Mike mentioned to John that one of his architects for the highway wants to retire this year and that just before building the three bridges. But he also said that a fellow he heard about in Frampton and just came out of college has some major potentials for the job. John agreed and asked Mike to hire him and find what he is capable of. Like he always says, everyone has potentials for something, you just need to find out what it is. The party lasted deep into the night.

Just a closer look of the little changes of what John calls the "Downtown" of Access. Slowly growing into a village......

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««The next very early morning my father had everyone woken in the house that was present. The fishing picnic was waiting for us. We have prepared everything last night and I couldn't wait to get into the plane and off to that little creek where my trophy trout was caught last summer. Maybe I will break my own record this year. I was hoping.
Was I ever glad when I heard that Grandpa wasn't coming this year. This time we were six, Dad and Mom, my sisters Vera and Melody-Ann and my brother Billy, and of course me, Charlie. My oldest brother Junior couldn't come because he was working today, now that he works in Dad's Company with Uncle Gary, but this was just one of those lucks I had.
Once we were off with the plane I felt good about this trip. I was also glad that I was up front beside Dad instead of like everyone else squished together in the back. We had a 1 hour flight making a big turn over the valley and close to our fishing grounds Dad started shouting, " Hey guys, look down to the left side in the middle of the river, it seems like whales."
Whales? I thought.....what does he mean by whales? This is a river and not the sea. Whales? Where?
Then Father continued, "The seawater must be coming in this far with the high tides I guess, strange though that they come this far inland, we must be at least 5 miles in." Then father pointed to a big one which seemed to be stranded on a little sandy dune right in the middle of the river.
"There's a dead one I think" he said with a low voice."Maybe it's a whale cemetary."»»

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Five minutes after we landed right there where we were last year. I couldn't wait to dip my line into that little creek and asked Dad if I could leave the unloading to the girls since I almost did all the uploading. Dad twinked his eye and said to be careful not to get lost or drown. Ha, drown he says, that creek is about 2 feet deep at the most.»»

While John jumped over the creek to show the Rockskull head to his wife and daughters, Charlie and Billy went fishing up the creek.
John explained to his wife what he had in mind with this area that he wants so badly to buy, but which is not yet available for public purchase and asked everyone to be quiet about this rockskull for now.
So the beautiful early summerday went by so nicely and for some even quickly. Everyone had a good time and Charlie caught 4 big trouts and not one is a trophy, but all were bigger than his brother's catch, which was good to Charlie.

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Just before the sun disappeared under the horizon, the Gabber family was back on the plane to their home in Bluebay, watching the sun drop in the far west before they reached the bay. Tomorrow it will be Charlie's 10th birthday and then one week after he will be leaving for the summerschool in Frampton for most of the summer. Father John had a good talk with Charlie that night and he promissed that it wasn't the last time they went fishing this summer. He also said thet the Cottage in Grasslake should be finished in a month and to inaugerate it he needs the presence of Charlie for one full week. Everything's arranged he said.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg40.imageshack.us%2Fimg40%2F2690%2F11bluebaydowntown.jpg&hash=cea15046188506cb85e1663987fb0d3e35179961)

....and one last look at the Bluebay region, so we won't forgot where the Gabbers live today.
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I hope you all like this update again. Like always I am looking for some more characters.
Right now I have:

terry Slye or TS, the sawmill fellow............. by threestooges
Guy Racsan, Tony's son........................... by NASCAR_Guy
Michael Arven, the new architect................. by mightygoose
Alex Puto, yet to come........................... by Driftmaster07

I have room for 10 more. Anyone interested?

See you soon and hey, thanks for leaving a comment. Have a nice weekend.


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CaptCity on May 30, 2009, 10:24:22 AM
The last couple updates have been really wonderful.  &apls

I always love your wide-area shots of the wilderness, and it's fun to watch the changes as Access Junction grows. Also, curious about those dirt roads going in all directions in Grasslake...

I look forward to watching the new log cabin being built. My brother built his own many years ago, and every time I visit, I get so jealous!

Looking forward to the great things to come... :thumbsup:
CaptCity
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on May 30, 2009, 12:55:17 PM
Mmm! Miss some update , but stil like your work. Very nice your sawmill. :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on May 31, 2009, 03:17:58 AM
wow big change of pacing seeing bluebay, fantastic work, as always looks very realistic in the overview shot....
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on May 31, 2009, 06:26:19 AM
Nice update! The whale is really puzzling... Whales normally don't go 5 miles up a river. Very interesting...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 06, 2009, 03:49:06 PM
Thanks for the comments, I will be back with another short update within the next 48 hrs.

Quote from: Driftmaster07 on May 31, 2009, 06:26:19 AM
Nice update! The whale is really puzzling... Whales normally don't go 5 miles up a river. Very interesting...

Maybe these are Freshwater whales? You never know what's up in the Winding River Wilderness..........crashed warplanes, dinosaur bones, rockskulls, freshwater whales, ruins of the unknown......ehem????.....ruins of what? Who said that?.........Is there more? Are they all connected? How?........

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TheTeaCat on June 06, 2009, 04:01:22 PM
Wonderful updates done recently &apls &apls

And why do I always leave this story with questions unanswered?

Oh yes I know, its to make me come back for more :D :D

I heard someone mention some ruins worth exploring or is that just another wild goose chase?


:satisfied:
TTC


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 06, 2009, 06:33:13 PM
Ruins or rumours?

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Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on June 06, 2009, 06:35:04 PM
Never heard of freshwater whales. Whales are mammals so... Maybe. But plankton, what wales eat, are saltwater only. Now you mentioned ruins... The ruins of the skull people? This is getting very, very, very interesting.

Alex

EDIT: I was going to post this before you but you beat me to it.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Swesim on June 06, 2009, 11:59:46 PM
Ha! This is getting even more complex for every update, it seems like the Winding river region is full of mysteries.
Now Vikings or something similar seem to have left a footprint in the region, ancient whalehunters in the river maybe?
It will also be interesting to see what the Racsans are going to come up with...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kwakelaar on June 07, 2009, 12:37:51 AM
Great work on the all the lots and bats accompanying your updates, a truly enjoyable MD.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Schulmanator on June 07, 2009, 05:43:42 AM
Great stuff! I have enjoyed myself thoroughly catching up on your MD. I love the variety of custom things you have... just terrific!  &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on June 10, 2009, 09:55:03 AM
Nice job the towns growing pretty fast and even I want to go to that pub. What is the 2nd floor of the pub used for?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Floydian on June 10, 2009, 04:31:14 PM
I really like the story element of this MD. You are making the history happen instead of explaining how it happened long ago. The way you are constructing the highway is amazing too. Are the various construction lots available to download (The dirt piles, dirt Tiles, the fallen trees, and the cementing pieces)?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 10, 2009, 06:36:18 PM
Quote from: Driftmaster07 on June 06, 2009, 06:35:04 PM
Never heard of freshwater whales. Whales are mammals so... Maybe. But plankton, what wales eat, are saltwater only.

Yeah, I know this also, but......this is the Winding River Wilderness and I have no idea how come that whales are here.

Quote from: Swesim on June 06, 2009, 11:59:46 PM
Ha! This is getting even more complex for every update, it seems like the Winding river region is full of mysteries.
Now Vikings or something similar seem to have left a footprint in the region, ancient whalehunters in the river maybe?

Hm....maybe that's it? ;)

kwakelaar, glad you enjoy it.
Schulmanator , nice to see you here.
danielcote , I suppose there are appartments up on the second floor of that Pub . I can always ask the owner.
Floydian,  the lots of the highway construction are not yet available and right now I am too darn busy to finish them and have them uploaded. Meanwhile the fallen trees can be downloaded from Peg's site under the logging stuff somewhere.
I will do my best to finish the lots and then have them tweaked by BarbyW. Time, time, time......lol.....never have enough of it. ;)

Thanks for the comments. Another update is about to be posted within the next two days, stay tuned.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on June 11, 2009, 01:32:34 PM
A special breeding ground maybe...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 12, 2009, 08:18:46 AM
Quote from: Driftmaster07 on June 11, 2009, 01:32:34 PM
A special breeding ground maybe...
................or maybe a cemetary....I wonder.



Let's have a small update on the Winding River Project.

Not very long after John asked for the residential Program to get more workers into the region, the government unzoned hundreds of acres and not only in Access Junction, but also in several other counties that have road access now.
It was urgent to get some more people to move in and work on the highway project, especially for Access Junction, where all the action is right now. And it wasn't long that the news spred all over the Nation that cheap land was available in that area. They came by the dozens and started building their houses right away. Economy is excellent, they say, and as long as there's a highway to build and trees to be logged, everyone is able to make a good buck (income).
First some roads were planned on the western side of Access and then cut out, going around the pond and then some 250 lots were zoned for residential use. Some 40 lots were sold instantly on the first day of the public offering. Now that highway 15 is officially open from Bluebay to Access Junction, workers will be more willing to come and live here realizing that the Wilderness is getting civilized.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg189.imageshack.us%2Fimg189%2F6510%2F1ajnewzones.jpg&hash=f4580d0eb92f782695eb7a640462fe00f46a9f04)


Mike Allheimer, the right arm of John Gabber's Company and also the Highway Program Manager, decided to sell his beautiful home in Bluebay last week. His home was situated on the mainland within one of the finest neighborhoods of Bluebay around. A lot of folks are wondering why he did so. He gave this up for the house that Gabber started in Grasslake County and as we can see, he likes wooded areas alright, not only in Grasslake but on his own lot also.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg189.imageshack.us%2Fimg189%2F1764%2F2millionaire.jpg&hash=f4b6973c2428b11e0ac37602c4ed7c301a2f1b5f)

Everyone Mike closely knew was invited for the inaugeration party at his new home in Grasslake. Althought the outside terrain is far from finished, the inside is ready to receive its dwellers. This was supposed to be John Gabber's weekend house first, but then Mike bought it out when John bought another piece of land elsewhere on the lake. Now he will be living here, 45 minutes from Bluebay and 45 minutes from Access Junction, where John Gabber is about to build an Office for the highway project. Now all he needs is a bride to build a family of his own.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg189.imageshack.us%2Fimg189%2F672%2F3grasslakeallheimerpart.jpg&hash=652d624e63d74997397d7060e1d906d01f61cc8a)

Now let's have a look how John's Log-Cottage is coming along, only about 1 kilometer from Mike's new place.
Most of the walls are standing by now and they are about to cut the windows and doors out of the walls. Once this is done, the roof will constructed and windows and doors will be installed right after. All there will be left to do is the final touches outside and the finishing of the interior. This shouldn't take longer than a month, now that we are already in the first weeks into summer.
John wanted this to be finished before next fall and now that he saw that Mike's home is ready to be moved into, he is even more anxious for it to get done in time.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg189.imageshack.us%2Fimg189%2F8610%2F4grasslakegabberchalet1.jpg&hash=1e922e4e28a44ff730c2099db70669a4e462d64f)

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While John and Mike flew over the eastern swamp area last again, they again saw that crashed airplane partially submerged in the waters and John decided to report it to the military authorities in Frampto

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«« "You know Mike," John said to his friend and Program Manager,"I hope that the rockskulls are not discovered before they zone the land at the creek near the Winding River and offer it for sale. We'll buy the most land we can there to create our own great historical site that was ever created in this part of the country."
Mike's eyebrowse lowered and said, "Reporting the airplane down there might trigger of a general search of the valley, I don't agree with your idea yet. And you are surely aware that the darn highway 15 will go right past that area where the rockskulls are less than 2 miles, aren't you?. If the architects/Engineers decide to build the water-road right there, which is by the way an excellent choice, it'll be the end of our dream and we cannot change the architect's opinions or decisions. Remember, they are paid by the government and not our Company."...
John continued,"We have to think seriously about this a little more, the loggers get there in about two months and then the construction guys. I can't force or rush the Government to zone up the area faster and make them sell the lots, although I wish I could, unless we have a good and solid contact. I don't, do you ?"
Mike nodded negatively and mumbled,"Maybe I have something else, my chief Highway Engineer-architect Harry Resfeld is about to retire and I know this young fellow from Frampton that I will probably hire to replace old Harry. His name is Alex Puto, potentially excellent for becoming the  new Chief Highway-Engineer and he will owe me that favour that I will hire him. I am pretty sure that he can be convinced to build the water road elsewhere." (the access road to get the water needed for the construction of the highway)
" Puto from where? Do I know him?" John asked curiously.
" No, I don't think so. He just came out of college with a master degree in engineering, and  he is more than qualified for the job I think." Mike added.
" Now that sounds good, when will he start?" John asked.
" I will call him tomorrow, he doesn't know yet that I have him in my visor for the job."
" Excellent" John replied.»»

I will be back this weekend with another update, a little longer than this one. Have a nice weekend.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on June 12, 2009, 04:01:44 PM
I'm intrested but before I jump into it what city is it in?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 12, 2009, 06:37:24 PM
Quote from: danielcote on June 12, 2009, 04:01:44 PM
I'm intrested but before I jump into it what city is it in?

Allheimer's home is in Bluebay on the mainland, almost opposite of the Gabber's residence. It is in one of the richer sectors of Bluebay. Check the image below.

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Half an acre, indoor swimming pool, 4 bedrooms and airconditioning in every room. 45.000 Simoleons.


;)  Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on June 13, 2009, 11:07:09 AM
I'll put up 45,000 for the home if I can buy it.  ;) EDIT: Also it is nice to see me in the updates!

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on June 14, 2009, 04:49:55 AM
Ok I'll take it.  ()stsfd()
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 14, 2009, 08:47:08 AM
Sold to Daniel Coté!

Sorry Alex, Daniel had the first option to buy. I guess Alex Puto has to find another one now...:(

Daniel, I just to need to know where the Buyer is from, the name and the profession. Thanks.

Be back with a nice update tonight.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on June 14, 2009, 01:10:11 PM
Daniel Cote, Govonor of the Grandian Federation, Dry Docks, Grand Forks, North America.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on June 14, 2009, 05:55:28 PM
Cool can't wait for the update. Alex might have to make his own house. Also it is not so great to have a house
MILES from the construction site. So it is kinda a good thing I didn't buy it!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 14, 2009, 07:25:59 PM


Flying over the Winding River Wilderness is today a little different than a year ago. Some simmish activity can now be identified and Access Junction is now more visible from upthere than ever.
The Government of Simland has decided to elongate the Access Road right on to the west, starting in Access itself.
The Highway construction team is now only a few months from the river where the biggest bridge over the majestic Winding River will be built, but because this will only be in the winter months and construction of the bridge itself cannot be prosecuted during the cold temperatures, the whole Highway project will be closed down for 4 months starting one week before Christmas. Only some departments , like loggers, acces roads construction etc will continue throughout the wintermonths.
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F1950%2F1wrw4.png&hash=f48dad6835f8417708cdd88a528bcc6160934c81)

In Valmore houses are being built also , ever since the Government gave away several hundreds of lots for a small amount to settle the region. Lake Valmore, just on the western border of the highway, is the cleanest and clearest lake yet in the Winding River region and some folks already have some interesting and profitable ideas about the developpment of this springwater lake which extends right into the bigger Chime lake further northwest of Valmore.
Known for its dinosaur bone find, Valmore's archeological site is totally closed for any public visits. A building to cover the skelleton is in the planning and then an offical opening for the public will be planned. Scientist finally agreed that the animal was killed with some sort of a primitive tool, which made the whole simworld rethink the evolution of simkind. Since never something like this was found before, and that it was impossible until now for a dinosaur to co-exist at the same time as a sim, a worldwide search for a logical explanantion is undertaken. Is this the first proof that some dinos have survived the extinction in certain areas longer and have even reached the period of simanoids?
The military is responsable for the protection of this site for the moment which seems to be very important to simkind.
Hundreds of amateur scientists, geologists and others have recently invaded the nearby forests of the Valmore county, searching the area for anything new and interesting. Lands have been sold so quickly that the buro of the Zone Restrictions in Frampton City is overrun with demands for more.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F8018%2F2valmoresouthhomes.jpg&hash=50e81cc6dd5a2fabdaa3c9c321ca6c1471eed24f)

Not far from there a wateraccess road was temporarily built to be able to get the waters from the northern part of the lake for the highway constructionsite. This part of Valmore lake is of shallow waters and amazingly to its first visitors, it has very strange looking trees all around its bay and on its island. Some roadworkers swear that they saw gigantic creatures in these shallow waters at nighfall. Of course these statements were seen as absolute rumours without any proof, mostly after some sims have spent a night or two to see any of these and have not witnessed the same at all. But some smaller yet unknown creatures were found, some lizard formed like animal that could glide over the watersurface as fast as a small speedboat for an example.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F6307%2F3valmorenorthvalmorelak.jpg&hash=20b2c399355c4e0cd6f4d580ee845daa3958a461)

Back in Access Junction, the citizens have finally received their first townhall and now are demanding an election of a mayor and a council in the near futur. Also the first newspaper was introduced to Access by a young fellow from Sandom, Joe Bean. Now housing temporarily on the upper floors of Joe's Hardware store he is hoping to print out 1500 examplars every week. The *Access Tribune* will also be available on some newspaperstands in Sandom and alsewhere one day, he hopes.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F7324%2F4townhall.jpg&hash=9677931636e617dd8e3658cb75c9d6dc39c48b33)

Growing almost with every day, Access Junction needs more of this and that, people say. First a Mayor, then a sheriff or a police of some kind and a postal service and governmental representative office. Others want an educational system with a school and the government now jumps in and wants an used water purification plan before the town will be growing any further. Used waters has slightly become a problem nowadays since no watertreatment whatsoever is existant. Also more efficient energy production has to be found soon enough. Whenever the sawmill starts in the morning some power fluctuations have been observed, meaning that the electricity producing unit is close to its maximum.
Last week Guy Racsan offered to build a small landstrip nearby for airplanes to land and deliver the needed goods faster. He said if the citizens can find an ideal are for a landing strip he will offer it as a gift to the town. People are now looking for such an area.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F6563%2F5townview.jpg&hash=efe7e4939b2baa0610d79ee8bea7ddf4e90b31cf)

Homeconstructions have almost doubled in the last month and new streets have been added in all directions all around Access Junction.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F9574%2F6newhomes.jpg&hash=84254ab98a0b584627c7eefa2112e25e2f3c5fbd)

The town is taking shape and more and more lots for homes and houses are offered by the Government. (- Anyone who wants to buy a small lot in Access Junction for a home has now to come forward and get one reserved in his/her name before it is too late-)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F1747%2F7lotsforsale.jpg&hash=830b90220f0d17a209c470913bf20c619bf6bba8)

A somewhat of a small downtown was being formed in the backyard of Lucy's Truckstop. People were moving in so quickly that they needed stores for food and other necessities, then a church for some believers and others.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F5699%2F8newdowntown.jpg&hash=e9ac4ab0d946fd75ee46c2b6f929339e955421b1)

On the other side of the village, now housing more than 800 citizens, a small industrial park has developped itself beside Slye's Sawmill, again needing more people as workers.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F9169%2F9industrials.jpg&hash=5b4ecf8e0227cbcb9448cf980cf62e9bad5a2623)

Here's a nice view of how the Highway 15 and Access Road (now called Route 141 by the government) intersection looks like today. Quite different from last last year, right?

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F9117%2F10highwayview.jpg&hash=4262a5f2c04ef77db5773f4cc6d652905418fd53)

An already successful Fruitfarmer form Sandom built his first farm in Access to extend his fruity kingdom into the Winding River Wilderness, saying that the climat here is more profitable for fruitgrowing trees than on the coastlands of Sandom or the mountains of Bluebay.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F530%2F11firstfarm.jpg&hash=38a0968b191b6301a68fc5ab315d437bdd8bbe31)

The idea that the climate was better for farming here than on the coast and in the mountains, is the main reason that a lot of land was sold and cleared for this purpose lately, causing again the sawmill to overflow with logs.

««" Listen Ts," John told T.Slye, his partner in the sawmill business, on a friday afternoon when their gang met again in the Olsenpub terrace, " I had this idea this week about the sawmill. I don't really have the time to take care of the logging business anymore and the sawmill runs on its own. Now that we get close to the mighty river and start building the bridges in next spring I will be busier than ever, how would you feel if I leave you alone with it, now that you have more than enough experience to run the mill on your own, and I'll make you an offer to buy my half of it at a good price?"
Slye opened his mouth and looked deeply into John's eyes, "Are you serious?"
"Yeah, of course I am" John replied." We are now in the beginning of the sixites, some say these are the golden years of industrial development."
With a keen look and one eyebrow raised Grandpa Henry, who was part of the friday meeting couldn't resist to say, " Jump onto it Slye, go for it, this might be the chance of your life", and he added an eyeblink.
Slye still a little confused, " Can I think about this for a couple of days? " and he looked pityfull at John.
" Hey, of course, I got all the time you need, I will ask my secretary to send you the offer tomorrow and think about seriously, I don't want to be part of it anymore, even if its futur is looking darn good, and you can handle it on your own, I'm sure."»»

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F6691%2F12clearings.jpg&hash=a98d23762d1d691b680b266369add6ffc20e2599)

In Grasslake also landlots are about to be sold everywhere and some bigpockets and businessmen from Bluebay, Sandom and even from Frampton and Beecherfalls are investing  in smaller lots for a futur weekend or retirement house. Some have already started building and moved in. If Charlie will find out about his fishing lake being invaded like this, he will probably freak out. He will be back from summerschool in a month.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F1320%2F13grasslakechaletview.jpg&hash=2d44ac2cfa1bce60b4e4ababae086856dbe10763)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F6021%2F14grasslakeotherchalets.jpg&hash=93a8b64703e34ee8bccbbb6aa5c3cfb07bb47df9)

Ferryman Rails from Capitol City, the biggest Rail Company in the east, is planning to introduce a railway through the Wilderness to create a shortcut from Frampton to Bishop's city that will save a few hundred kilometers of unecessary rails through the prairies. For the moment it is only a plan on paper, but eventually this will happen I presume. The rails will come in by the north and then slowly wind through the wilderness to exit to the west a little more than halfway through the region.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F6015%2F15windingrivervalley.png&hash=7f5793a2dfef0f1c1ca68a9443d678df5e4c0de9)

In Bluebay, the house of Mike Allheimer was finally sold to Daniel Cote, the Governor of the Grandian Federation, Dry Docks. He moved in almost instantly enjoying the big trees with their shade around the house. Mr Cote comes from Grandforks.
In Capitol City, Charlie is about to finish summerschool and he has a new friend, a youg fellow only one year older than himself with name of Diarmuid MacGermain who just imigrated with his father from GRV II after the rebels intrusion. Diar's father moved down to this area having heard that workers are badly needed in the Wincing River Wilderness.



Well, that's the update for this week, hope you'll liked it again. I still need some more characters in my story, anyone?

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on June 14, 2009, 08:22:54 PM
Nice update as always!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on June 15, 2009, 03:19:40 AM
Fantastic stuff :), Thought maybe you should think about changing the rail route to not cross the main river twice. maybe it should instead split and cross the tributary under the "Planned highway 15" label, and a spur could go over the river at the island.

Just a suggestion.

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 15, 2009, 07:22:46 AM
JoeST, I will take that idea seriously into consideration. I will have a more detailed look at the terrain and the possibility to do so, althopugh in the first place I wanted to have access to the large peninsula. But then again, like you said to avoid building two bridges it might be a better idea to follow the river on the westside. I can always create an intersection later to reach the peninsula. Excellent idea, appreciated.
The Rail councelors will have that idea on their table by tomorrow morning.

Thanks for commenting
Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on June 15, 2009, 12:14:39 PM
superb progress....



..... lurkety lurk lurk....
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on June 15, 2009, 12:52:49 PM
Excellent work. Showing the gradual expansion really gives it that feel of a growing town. I noticed there's a new parking lot by Gabber's Park (is it almost time for the soccer game again?) and the industrial park is a nice touch. As for buying out the half share of the lumber mill... wow, that's a big investment, but I think it's worth it. Hopefully it won't take too much out of my pocketbook. Since I haven't seen a house in Access Junction, I assume I'm still making the commute. If the price is right, sell the house in Frampton, buy a smaller one in Access Junction and use the difference to buy the sawmill.

Also, as for the rail line, I like Joe's suggestion. Perhaps it could hop over the island further south and skip a few bridges (though those are always neat to look at). What exactly is the scale of the overview shots (distance from Access Junction to Grasslake, etc)?

Nice work on all this Fred.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 15, 2009, 01:34:13 PM
Thanks mightygoose for dropping by.
threestooges: Slye is about to move to Access, he doesn't have the cash though at the moment to buy himself a house, but will live in an appartment for now. The sawmill is making enough income to take care of the paiements that he will make to John Gabber's Co to pay off his half. TS just wants to make sure to pay off everything first. That is his first aim.
Also he is of thinking something else that is about to come, still in the logging business, but as the highway closes in to the mighty river, he gets more and more ideas to save time with transport. We'll see about this in a few updates, probably when they have reached the river with the highway construction.

Below is a picture of the southwest to give you an idea of the scale, these are all medium citytiles.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg35.imageshack.us%2Fimg35%2F8270%2Fwindrivscal.png&hash=ca9039855cfd5127106bb9e1882b5a47ecef7ebb)


;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on June 15, 2009, 03:44:08 PM
Questions:

Aw Access is growing up isn't it cute  :D . By the way that appartment on the left side of the bake sale and the bake sale building I really like so I would like to by the properties to make them historic and keep them for a buissnes venture. Also you might want to build a grass landing strip because I would like to send in some supplies from grand forks to support my buissness venture, it probably will spur the local economy giving more high paying jobs as mechanics, technical support and pilots, it would be like a gateway to the north in its own sence. Also I would like to have a summer cottage in Access please. also who's mike?

Suggestions:

I think that C.P tetements and houses would fit in with you're comunity very well.

Message:

Thank you and Please reply to all these questions because they're all important to me.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: RustyXL on June 15, 2009, 04:41:41 PM
These past few updates have been great. It looks like Access Junction is growing nicely. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens with the landing strip.  ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 15, 2009, 06:58:24 PM
Quote from: danielcote on June 15, 2009, 03:44:08 PM
Questions:

I think that C.P tetements and houses  would fit in with you're comunity very well.

Message:

Thank you and Please reply to all these questions because they're all important to me.

What are the CP tetements and houses?
I have pm'ed you with the details.<

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on June 15, 2009, 08:58:17 PM
I agree, this is great!  I keep reverting back to GRV though... I keep expecting to see a boarder guard or orders from the Separatists!

I'd love to get in on the action.  Since you already have a John (my name), how about Michael Westwood?  That would be my middle name and the street I grew up on.  I'm in seminary right now... so maybe the new pastor in town might have some outspoken words about the recent findings at the excavation site...

EDIT:

And HERE are the c.p. tenements (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=1277) and some additional houses, also by c.p. (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=241) and some more HERE (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=686)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 15, 2009, 11:08:05 PM
Wow, nice early 19th century homes, just perfect for the 1950/60 scenery of the Winding River. Thanks for the linkie.

Cabrabuitre, no separatists here, nor any bordertowns.....lol

If you want to you to know that can keep the name John, no problem, we have a Michael also (Michael Allheimer), he is John Gabber's friend, foreman and the Program Manager for the highway 15 project.
It doesn't matter what first name your character has, the last name is important and has to be different.

Please PM me with ...


full name...
birthplace...(only on the map below)
where want to live now and later...(see map below again)
                  (there's also Access Junction, Racsan Falls, Grasslake and Valmore available now )
entering at what age into the story.....
education....
wants to do what in his life and become who....
job and profession....
marry who , when and have kids?...names .....

Everything else I will take care of. You can  pm me anytime to add or change things of your character during the story. If I will not see any comment from you after two consecutive months, then I will simply let him die or disappear. Sounds good? Welcome to the Winding River region.

Fred


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg146.imageshack.us%2Fimg146%2F3849%2F10mapganogawrwnewhighwa.png&hash=3223bd4d2ff6833eac300e8e8320ecfbcf9f08b7)

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: art128 on June 15, 2009, 11:22:50 PM
Fred, that little map is greatly done my friend. Also, the last update is good too, I really love the way you show the highways the constructions.
Take care,
-Arthur.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 21, 2009, 06:55:58 AM
Thanks Art for leaving a comment.
I will be back later tonight with another update. (Sorry, couldn't make it, had a surprise visit from my sons. I hope I will be able to upload the update either on Monday or Tuesday evening.See you then.)

I heard that someone got strangled on Mainstreet in Access Junction this morning.......oh boy.
;)
Also some new BATs and LOTs will be shown. Be there!

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on June 21, 2009, 07:39:05 AM
don't worry I'll try being fathers day and all.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on June 22, 2009, 04:42:47 PM
I cant wait! And who got strangled? Anyone important? Not my character right?!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 25, 2009, 08:08:17 PM
Yes, it is someone more or less important, surely not your character driftmaster07.
Sorry for being late, but the update will only be later this weekend.
I will tell you the news titles of the Access Junction Tribune tomorrow though.
;)
Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 26, 2009, 01:05:19 PM
Making history, so nicely said by Floydian, is exactly what we are experiencing here in Access. Just imagine if these businesses in Access were to become bigger and what would they look like in five or ten or even more years?
So this is my first newspaper clip I made with simple mspaint, I am not a pro at all with these things nor with the program, but my wife says it looks good enough to upload. (encouraging  ???)
These are the headlines for what will soon be coming in the next update.
Have a nice weekend.

From above Joe's Hardware store on Mainstreet, here comes the first newpaper issue in Access Junction: Joe Bean, Editor.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg10.imageshack.us%2Fimg10%2F9862%2Faccessnews1.png&hash=ff347363844ba1f99405d4f07c6700886e52d30c)



Fred


There's always more room for some more characters in my story......don't be shy. We need all kinds of professions, only to mention a few: Doctors, Professors, Lawyers, Biologists, Chemists, Politicians, Farmers, and so on....also people that own trucking Companies, or a foodstore chain, hotels and resorts, mechanics and constructionworkers etc, all you can imagine. Apply here.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbyW on June 26, 2009, 01:14:41 PM
I hope that wasn't my old Nexis character who was strangled, Fred. Feel free to add me anywhere you think fit - I trust you  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on June 26, 2009, 01:19:48 PM
I hadnt posted in a week so I got worried! P.S. I like the newspaper! And I would like to buy one acre for 65 simoleons!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TheTeaCat on June 26, 2009, 01:45:47 PM
Wonderful developments that are happening in Access Junction ( except for the strangulation of course).
Great to hear that Charlie has a new friend and I hope it will be a long friendship.
Wonder if Charlie can convince him to go fishing during the holidays?
I suppose he can if they bring lots of tea with them ::)

:satisfied:
TTC
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on June 26, 2009, 03:09:16 PM
wait....have I been immortalized in the name of a hardware store without even noticing? ???

*slow realisation is slow*  $%Grinno$%

that news paper is awesome :)

Thank you so much

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: dedgren on June 26, 2009, 04:16:18 PM
QuoteWe need all kinds of professions, only to mention a few: Doctors, Professors, Biologists, Chemists, Politicians, Farmers, and so on....also people that own trucking Companies, or a foodstore chain, hotels and resorts, mechanics and constructionworkers etc, all you can imagine.

Hmmmpf, Fred... no lawyers?

...just kidding...

Been too long since I've been by- WRP is always a great read!


David
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 26, 2009, 06:51:50 PM
BarbyW, was it Elizabeth White in NoG, not sure if I remember right? I'll find a place and a story for you.
Driftmaster07, one acre sold to Alex Puto.......any place special in mind?
TheTeaCat , isn't Diarmuid too young for tea?
JoeST , you want Joe from the Hardware store to be your character? That can be arranged.
dedgren , because of you, Access now needs a lawyer... ;)

Thanks for the comments.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on June 26, 2009, 07:01:14 PM
Actually I was just searching for pics! Here they are... Don't know for sure what it is called but I love it! Also they are typically found in forest areas so...

This one for general look...

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fz.about.com%2Fd%2Farchitecture%2F1%2F0%2FA%2FH%2Faframe-jw.jpg&hash=d184f47de4f72458a4b6ced444313cc9938baabf)

This one I like the most for everything...

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimgs.ebuild.com%2Fcms%2Feplans%2F2005%2F%2F32353%2FaframeHPC743-0000-FPCR-L.jpg&hash=d90c904c9e16fe27abcf1f86c280b6e22b088a47)

And this to show you construction...

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.americanscientist.org%2FLibraries%2Fimages%2Fthumbnail%2F200732764339_866.jpg&hash=d932e086f85b68bb5a92e610ae081321903d845a)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 26, 2009, 10:26:07 PM
We call these types of homes *Swiss-style cottages* here in Quebec, and we quite a few of these around the southern Appalachian part of the province. I am surprized no one really BATted one yet.......  &Thk/(

Fred

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: iamgoingtoeatyou on June 26, 2009, 11:22:49 PM
My first time here and everything is looking excellent!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Swesim on June 27, 2009, 01:25:35 AM
Great update as usual Fred!

Quote from: mrbisonm on June 26, 2009, 10:26:07 PM
We call these types of homes *Swiss-style cottages* here in Quebec, and we quite a few of these around the southern Appalachian part of the province. I am surprized no one really BATted one yet.......  &Thk/(

Fred


Aren´t they similiar to PEGs A-Frames? (http://simpeg.com/forum/index.php?action=tpmod;dl=item158)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TheTeaCat on June 27, 2009, 03:22:28 AM
Quote from: mrbisonm on June 26, 2009, 06:51:50 PM
TheTeaCat , isn't Diarmuid too young for tea?

Fred no one is too young for Tea :D :D

Derry
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 27, 2009, 08:24:28 AM
Quote from: TheTeaCat on June 27, 2009, 03:22:28 AM
Fred no one is too young for Tea :D :D

Derry

Ok, got that! ;)

iamgoingtoeatyou , hope you'll come again.
Swesim , somewhat similar I guess, but not quite the same.


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on June 27, 2009, 10:31:39 PM
*sneeks in* oooh hey there Fred been a wee while since I stopped in here wow a lot has happend and looking very great here in Winding River!!!!  Don't worry I'll try and stop back in now that it seems everything is now calm for me... I hope lol
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on June 28, 2009, 08:03:01 AM
Great news we got a new town hall! Will you be talking about my character soon.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 28, 2009, 08:35:58 PM
Quote from: danielcote on June 28, 2009, 08:03:01 AM
Great news we got a new town hall! Will you be talking about my character soon.

I have sent a PM to you a while ago asking for some changes in your character's profil like birthdate....(you said 1964 and we are in 1960 at the moment)...and some other info, but you never answered.....waiting.........

;)

Pat, hope you get some free time after all I have heard lately.... ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 29, 2009, 02:14:14 PM
This update has to be done in two parts because it is a little too big to upload in one. Part two will be uploaded in a couple of days.

First we will have a look at Access Junction and in the second part we will visit Grasslake and Valmore and see how the highway construction is coming along.

It is late summer again and Charlie finished his summerschool, all proud that he made it through. Father John is proud of Charlie and offers him a weekend of fishing in the North in exchange for his positive efforts in school.
««"Dad," Charlie asked father John when he offered the fishing weekend, " Can we take along one of my friends? You know, like Diarmuid?"
"Who?" John asked wondering who that might be.
" You know I told you about my new friend Diarmuid MacGermain from summerschool, did you already forget?" Charlie explained.
" nay, of course not, sorry I was thinking about something else. Ask that MacGermain kid to get permission from his parents and we'll pick him up wherever he lives, ok?" John responded. "Where does he live anyways?"
Charlie thought it over a little and then said " I think he lives with his father in Access, I will have to call him though and make sure, right?"»»
So Charlie, his new friend Diarmuid, Grandpa Henry and John took off for the weekend after he got the address of Diarmuid.
Meanwhile in Access Junction a terrible thing happened. On Blairstreet West, a lifeless body was discovered during friday night by an old couple. It was Mrs Lucy, the owner of the Big corner restaurant and the gazstation. She was apparently strangled to death and left behind on the sidewalk beside an abandonned car just behind the Convenience store and in front of the small elementary school which has not yet opened. The federal Police in Bluebay was informed and it took them almost two hours to get to the scene.  "This is not acceptable" some citizens said, "we should have a Police officer or another law authority in town".While waiting for the Police the body was left in place on the scene and the area was taken care of by the only two firemen Access Junction has at the moment. The owner of the Olsen pub also got implicated in protecting the crimescene.
The Police said that there will be a investigation tommorrow morning and that the area should be protected for the rest of the night. Both firemen volunteered.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg265.imageshack.us%2Fimg265%2F7892%2F1lakesteadcountylucydea.jpg&hash=27eb2cc80528603331ce199bf4d2eaf73c6c4dfc)

On the other side of the highway , the old soccerterrain was totally improved and rebuild with semi-professional quality in mind. The three acre Gabber terrain with the park was donated to the town under the condition that it will always be used as a sporting terrain and never be overbuild by anything else. The towncouncil gave it the name of *Gabber Playgrounds*.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg524.imageshack.us%2Fimg524%2F3376%2F2lakesteadcountysoccerf.jpg&hash=c418754751bf8331068dbc796125cd657ffb88dc)

The council and Guy Racsan finally found a suitable terrain for the futur small airport and construction was started , first as a base for the town's supply but also for the Rascan's benefits and accessiblity to the region. Situated just before the hills it is easy accessible from the town by the newly named Racsan street and from the highway 15. It expands for more than 50 acres south of town. The land was donated by Mr Racsan himself who is now retired and the town has the job to clear, level the terrain and prepare the runway with help from his son Guy Racsan. Now all the town has to do is to build the necessary buildings in the next futur.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg72.imageshack.us%2Fimg72%2F2585%2F3lakesteadcountyview2.jpg&hash=c92ee881d0138abf7101f6a4d71de31d502ce0a0)

The town already has built a gaz-turbine producing electricity generator with financial  support from the government and started working on the tower and office building of the airport. Everyone in town is excited. Plans to finish this project were promissed by the construction Company from Bluebay to be before Christmas 1960.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg39.imageshack.us%2Fimg39%2F3464%2F4lakesteadcountyairport.jpg&hash=c86f09641d27883b005f6b7e6329d1b3482f60b5)

I would like to show you around the residential areas of Access Junction a little bit, taking you from the higher to the lower wealth within the municipality. Below are some houses of higher wealth situated just south of the Gabber playgrounds accessible by the Access Road. Rich forests kept for shade made this area especially desired by many folks.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg23.imageshack.us%2Fimg23%2F8767%2F5lakesteadcountyresiden.jpg&hash=fb8da788cd93a7f961d2c08c5494db409561328d)

A little less high wealth are the houses on the Access Road leading out of town to the west. Situated just behind the sawmill and beside the watersource of Access, this is where the land for sale is offered at a ridiculous low price nowadays.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg40.imageshack.us%2Fimg40%2F8255%2F6lakesteadcountyresiden.jpg&hash=c628861acb10b735fd5f60d663ecfbd4960efe21)

And even further down the same road and also going towards the airport terrain lies the lesser desired quarter of Access. Most of these people don't have a job anymore, and it's not because there aren't any available, but because of choice. Some folks think that this might be a disease to be so lazy, since the population of the welfare people increases with every month. " Keeping the backyard clean and tidy is not a matter of being poor" one man once said, " but more of a willingness to do so".
Last week a new Mayor, and the first for Access Junction , was elected. Mr Paul Hubert, a retired Highway worker who knows his way around the area, wants to *clean-up* this part of town before next spring.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg40.imageshack.us%2Fimg40%2F8818%2F7lakesteadcountyresiden.jpg&hash=4d1980eee5d6c1bc9aa6cf08716c7f26c48ba896)

Miller Sargo Textiles, Birger Weldings and Reinhold Ltd now have new neighbors in the industrial area of Access. New Manufacturing Companies have moved to town and creating again several new jobs. All new shops though are of smaller scales.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg507.imageshack.us%2Fimg507%2F7804%2F8lakesteadcountyindustr.jpg&hash=d7bb8eccc8eb7fbd9beac97d818ea62fa6ea22aa)

A good look at the commercial area of town reveils us that the town has grown a lot within one year. Between the highway and the little church used to be several residential houses on both parallel streets, Blair and Access, which seemed to have replaced by stores and other commercial activities. The elementary school was donated by the Minister of Education earlier this summer but will only open in a month when school restarts for the 1960/61 season.
Ts Slye has been creating a lot of rumours lately, having mentioned  that he might leave Access for good. Of course these news are not welcomed to the ears of the workers that only shortly ago moved to the area because of the work the Company offered. Mr Slye however, now the solemn owner of the sawmill, has not confirmed anything yet, but made a remark that nothing much will change in the area and no jobs will be lost no matter what he decides. Slye seems to keep away from public view these days and this worries the population. Is he having financial problems, some think?
John Gabber was approached with the question also, but he simply stated that Mr Slye is on his own now and that he knows what he's doing and that himself he has nothing to do with the sawmill anymore anyways.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg19.imageshack.us%2Fimg19%2F3627%2F9lakesteadcountydowntow.jpg&hash=4829506d9fef95056f76b9602d1680fd13be916b)

Here is a closer picture of what we may call the center of town. It is the crossing of Blair and Access with Church street, two newly installed trafficlight intersections. Here in the church, the population was gathered for a general municipal meeting with the Mayor Paul Hubert and the council. And here is where a young fellow only shortly arrived to Acces from Beecherfalls blamed the town to still be in the dinosaur ages with transportation needs of the poulation. The Mayor, somewhat insulted by the young man's statement, told Mr Tom Kohler of 19 years old that the town is only starting to develop and is less than two years old and maybe if he thinks that he can improve the town's needs , not to hesitate to do so. The next day Kohler went ot the townhall and officially asked for a permit to open a Taxibusiness. The demand was brought to the council and was accepted.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg39.imageshack.us%2Fimg39%2F1227%2F10lakesteadcountydownto.jpg&hash=5493df443c9f287df2d2b4395bfb12f1b1b8d245)

To finish the Part 1 of this update, here is an overlook of the mainarea of the town of Access Junction and its highway which gave it its existance.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg8.imageshack.us%2Fimg8%2F8378%2F11lakesteadcountyhighwa.jpg&hash=99f74a43d9802bd09dde450d547f83ac7b933ac4)

I will be back with part 2 within the week. Hope you liked this update, the second part will be more reveiling for some mysteries and also a new area will be visited. Highway 15 encountered its first obstacle, the Chime river.

Thank you for commenting and come again.

Fred


There's always more room for some more characters in my story......don't be shy. We need all kinds of professions, only to mention a few: Doctors, Professors, Lawyers, Biologists, Chemists, Politicians, Farmers, and so on....also people that own trucking Companies, or a foodstore chain, hotels and resorts, mechanics and constructionworkers etc, all you can imagine. Apply here.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TheTeaCat on June 29, 2009, 02:55:23 PM
Fabulous update. Fills in some of the blanks and leaves lots more ::)
Makes me come back for more :thumbsup:
Good to hear that Diarmuid and Charlie are off Fishing for the weekend.
Hope they got plenty of Tea :D Diarmuid's gonna need it ;)

:satisfied:
TTC
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on June 29, 2009, 04:48:47 PM
TS may not be making public statements too often, but then he has a few things in the works. Suffice to say I know Access won't be left in the lurch, and who would want to give up such prime real estate? Surprised to hear about the death. You know, I saw Mrs. Lucy the other day, down along the tracks... sorry to hear she won't be coming back (link (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NzRZSV9Lzi8)).

Nice update. I like the airstrip (something for the Gabber's plane besides the lake now) and the neighborhoods are developing nicely except for those lazy bums who aren't working... I'm sure TS could find some work for them though. I'll be watching for the next part.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on June 29, 2009, 05:41:34 PM
Boy! I missed a lot when I was moving! Good to be back and I can't wait for part two! Also thanks for the house request acception. Also... Will you BAT the entire airport by yourself?

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: RustyXL on June 29, 2009, 06:22:04 PM
Nice update. The taxi service was a good idea for a town of this size. I can't wait to see the highway construction and the completed airport.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on June 29, 2009, 09:07:43 PM
Great update, I see the downtown CBD is growing and you took my idea of a municipal landing strip!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on June 30, 2009, 05:04:47 AM
Excellent update mate, and i enjoy how real is your work. Very well done. &apls &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on June 30, 2009, 10:15:22 AM
Yes, a really great update there! Nice work! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on June 30, 2009, 11:01:43 AM
Quote from: mrbisonm on June 28, 2009, 08:35:58 PM
Pat, hope you get some free time after all I have heard lately.... ;)

Fred

OOoh yea its been a lot lol... It does feel good to breath now and I like the airport construction there and I see you have used the house construction set from umm shoot I cant think of his name now.... I see there is a crime scene wow!!! OK so who was the two firemen that stood guard on that scene?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: beutelschlurf on June 30, 2009, 01:16:19 PM
moin mrbisonm,

what a great update of the Winding River Project, as usally!  :thumbsup:
it feels like living history whilst it is written ...if you know what i mean.
just great!

b_schlurf
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on June 30, 2009, 06:32:16 PM
Looks like now that I am running the family business, I'll have to quit getting my degree in Business :P


Also the Racsan Family is gonna build a Market here and near our property.

http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=21919
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on July 03, 2009, 12:34:39 PM
great progress it is nice too see some new faces around, see we may have actually found a use for mysim XD
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on July 04, 2009, 12:08:49 PM
I think its safe to say that you are the absolute best at story telling MDs/CJs. Just as entertaining as Nexus, hope this one lasts as long as well!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Earth quake on July 06, 2009, 11:24:56 AM
Good update.
I really like this city.
Excellent work.

Vivien.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 08, 2009, 07:51:51 PM
TheTeaCat, they probably brought along enough tea to last them for a few days, although Charlie never had a cup before I think. ;)

threestooges, I am sure that Ts has something up his sleeves also. I bet it will even be very surprizing.

Driftmaster7, no I won't be BATting the whole airport (landingstrip). I wish I could find the time though. Alex Puto is busy now, read below.......

RustyXL, taxi it is for now for Tom Kohler, but he surely thinks ahead of time.

danielcote, well the airport was only partially your idea, someone else had the idea also and both of you made me go for it.

kimcar, thanks, I try my best to be realistic, come again.

Thanks for dropping in, bat.

Hey Pat, the firemen's names are Steve Hueller and Bobby Ward, by any chance do you know them? They're from Bluebay before, but moved here for the job in Access Junction.

b_schlurf, great to see you.

NASCAR_Guy, Guy Racsan will surely be busy with the new responsability now. Sorry about the foodstore idea, that is already taken, but I got something else in mind for the Racsan's......

mightygoose, there will be more on Michael Arven in the next update...

nedalezz, I am thankful that you think that my story is good for MD's/ CJ's and glad you were a Nexis (NoG) fan.

Earth quake, Come again and thanks for dropping in. ;)

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

So let's continue with the story.........
This is part 2 of the previous update. We will clear up some old mysteries in this one. Sorry for being late again....


The region is slowly developing, although there is a lot of wilderness left with a lot of surprizes (I hope).
Archeologists have been searching the dinosaur area very much in the asst weeks and they didn't find anything much of interest yet. A group of young students were hired to seal the area where the T-Rex was found for the moment and create a touristic site for later public exposure.

Mike, John, Andy, Henry, Alex and Bob, a new general forman for the highway project were again meeting at Lucy's place like every friday and which is temporarily taken care of by her employees. Of course the main talks were about that young business woman that got strangled and another woman from Capitol City which is interested in buying the place already.

««" The police in Bluebay was here all day yesterday trying to find some evidences for Lucy's case", Mike told the group while sipping slowly on his cold beer," and they said that the investigation might take quite some time because they haven't found much at the crime scene. "
" I guess they will interogate everyone alive in Access," Grandpa Henry added, " I remember that strange murdercase just before the war started, it was in...."..
"Oh c'mon now Dad"..John interupted,"let's not talk about that old Simmens case again that never got solved. Everyone here knows about it, and we also know that you were the main witness."
Alex Puto, who is now the chief assistent architect for the highway construction in Valmore asked about that case that he himself never heard about, but John stopped Grandpa again before he had time to open his mouth and say another word and added," We will talk about that on another day, now I need to know what's happening in Valmore North" and he seriously looked at Alex and Mike, the Program Manager, at the same time.
"I don't know,"Mike said and looked at Alex for help.
"Well, Sir," Alex started", we just arrived at the Chime river earlier this week and started on the temporary bridge to cross the river, everything seemed to be just fine and in time,"looking back at Mike. Mike nodded to confirm it.
"So what is this all about then?" John asked again.
Meanwhile even Henry got interested and said " Something wrong out there?"
Mike started smiling and said " Listen guys, there's nothing wrong, the job is on time and we'll have the bridge finished by January, as planned. It is that old man the loggers found that is creating all the rumours."
John.."What old man?"
Mike.." The loggers found an old man living alone in a freaking big camp out there. The first thing he asked on which side we were and where the front is now, well, he was talking about the warfront.....Phil Travers talked to him a little before he started shooting."
With a loud voice nervously John said,"Whoa, wait a minute, who started shooting who and why?"
Again Mike couldn't resist his small smile and added," Well, that man still thinks it is wartime. It took us quite a while to explain to him that we're on his side and that the war is over for more than a decade."
John.."Stop!!! You mean you discovered a man living in this wilderness who still thinks the war is on and who did he shot?"
Mike.." No one was shot nor hurt, John, he just started shooting into the air and told us to stay away from his property....Hey, this guy must be in the late sixties, maybe even early seventies, he looks like Robinson Cruso and is very nervous about all the noise we're maknig with the logging and roadconstruction. He hasn't seen this much action for more than 20 years. He must have been there living all by himself."»»

And so Mike explained in every detail the situation why the highway works were delayed for a few days in Valmore. Robert H. Sweathers was a pilot and he crashed into one of the ponds with his plane way over on the other side of the river in early 1943. He was not found and considered as dead in action. John finally understood and remembered seeing that airplane in the east of the Wilderness.
The incident was reported to the federal Government right away and the officials took care of Mr Sweathers by now.

Here's an updated partial map of the western part of the region. They finally reached the first obstacle with Highway 15, the Chime river, where the first bridge in the region will be build. Alex Puto is on the job with the Chief Architect to get the bridge done by January 1961, in about 5 months only.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg37.imageshack.us%2Fimg37%2F9316%2F1accessregionalview1960.png&hash=a16df79eb06c6a2e9482562e4eab507ff744a1a4)

Back in Grasslake Mr Rascan announced his new "retirement home" as he calls it. Now that he retired from his businesses, he had built this manson to live out his retirement in total peace.
He publically announced the event on last Monday to the News media. His son Guy Racsan has partially taken over the Racsan empire, he said, while he himself will only look at things from the distance from now on and take care of his newly found passion-project near his new home in Grasslake, which no one really knows what it actually is.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg528.imageshack.us%2Fimg528%2F2595%2F2grasslakewestracsanhou.jpg&hash=f1fe7c26a113748667d91f10d461be92d955b943)

Racsan's mansion was built completely on the other side of the grasslake, where the family bought a lot of land earlier last year. Most of the hills and plains there belongs to Mr Racsan and they are working to clear some land since almost a year, Mr Racsan has a project in mind that he has not yet reveiled to the public.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg291.imageshack.us%2Fimg291%2F356%2F3grasslakewestracsanhou.jpg&hash=863f0ca0bd0b54e7fcc30b1f023366ecfb69bdc0)

A close up of the mansion reveils a domain of the highest standards. It must have cost him a few million simoleons.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg43.imageshack.us%2Fimg43%2F8340%2F4grasslakewestracsanhou.jpg&hash=2cc2ffee69e60c2c1f382bb8bf46dfa2376236c4)

In valmore, highway 15 has reached its first obstacle, the Chime river, a small river coming in from the west as the decharging of the Chime lake. A temporary bridge was built to cross the river and start the highway-bridge construction from both sides of the river at the same time.
The young fellow from Frampton, Alex Puto, is the responsable assistent Project Manager of the bridge construction, actually his first big job, which Mike Allheimer fully hopes that he will be up to the job.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg188.imageshack.us%2Fimg188%2F5927%2F5valmorenorthbridgecons.jpg&hash=c1463b4aa75a777baec72202b6eb186573fe2682)

As all over the Winding River Region, logging is one of the major activities here also, clearing land for the highway construction.Here's a closer look of the clearing of the highway sides.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg38.imageshack.us%2Fimg38%2F213%2F6valmorenorthlogging.jpg&hash=a9026f8871bf0e98d3d622c60f5d7fd6f55a466d)

The highway was asphalted down to the beginning of the bridge construction and as of today the asphalt guys are on vacation until the bridge project has ended.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg36.imageshack.us%2Fimg36%2F7939%2F7valmorenorthhighway15.jpg&hash=990801ed26bfe7ee8e4f6ae82758d527f1663cf6)

Here is an overview of the bridge-construction area with the discovered *hut* of the lost pilot they found.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg262.imageshack.us%2Fimg262%2F2739%2F8valmorenorthhomeview3.jpg&hash=601a296696a9ec529a25940d0ee6c03b9f9f2d48)

And a close up of Mr Sweathers' Home made entirely of natural products. A very large building created by the pilot for his survival. Why it actually was built that large is still a mystery for the moment and will be until Mr Sweathers has gone through the health testing procedures in Blue Bay. He will then be interogated by the government and airforce.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg525.imageshack.us%2Fimg525%2F927%2F9valmorenorthhome.jpg&hash=3a038acb743166ccea86cfbd03196b61cceedc7c)

To reach the other side of the river a temporay blogbridge was constructed and from both sides the actual highway bridge can be build now.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg248.imageshack.us%2Fimg248%2F9348%2F10valmorenorthtempbridg.jpg&hash=1d7c7e573edb36f637fe17fa2fb81531c83180df)

Here are some more detailed pictures of the bridge construction which will take a few months to be finished. A lot of ground was worked over for this project.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg40.imageshack.us%2Fimg40%2F5981%2F11valmorenorthview4.jpg&hash=70c9e8ae87f35741676e3699c874ec61362f2dbb)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg40.imageshack.us%2Fimg40%2F2246%2F12valmorenorthbridgecon.jpg&hash=14533e9e995140613b94b1f876a5ae382e6f3243)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg398.imageshack.us%2Fimg398%2F9848%2F13valmorenorthbridgecon.jpg&hash=5cbfb4fc6fbdc80c9e99ec733243a20dac4b72b4)

Hope you liked the second part of the update.
See you soon with the bridge construction, some more of Access Junction's developments and several other news from different areas, including the police investigation of Lucy's murdercase in Bluebay's downtown...........hm, what's Bluebay's downtown got to do with Lucy? Who is that mysterious Lady that wants to buy Lucy's Truckstop so quickly?  ()what()


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on July 08, 2009, 10:10:40 PM
Looks like quite the project ahead in building that bridge. What style do they plan on going with? Seeing all that lumber off to the sides of the road... well it just makes me wish we had more capacity at the mill... ah well, time will tell where things lead. Nice work on the temporary bridge too.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on July 09, 2009, 12:12:52 AM
now that is fantastic...The pilot survived, AWESOME!!! must mean there is edible's in the forest.

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on July 09, 2009, 05:52:16 AM
Another fantastic update, my friend!!!  &apls &apls &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 09, 2009, 06:29:25 AM
Another great update! I was gonna say that if you did the airport it would be QUITE the job! I can understand why you won't build it by yourself. Also... how is my house coming along?

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 09, 2009, 09:26:20 PM
threestooges, the wood on the side of the road is from the Slye Sawmill of course and is planned to be used as forms for the concrete construction of the bridge. I haven't decided which bridge to use yet. I might make some BATs as the construction continues over the water.....
JoeST, edibles there is and much more..... ???
Tomas Neto , Thanks Tomas, come again.
Driftmaster07,...hm....about that house....well, to disappoint you, Alex Puto just moved into a houseboat I heard. Some problems finding appartments in Access and land to build. Looks like a "sold-out" overthere.
Btw, the airstrip will be a customlot that I'll put together with existing props and textures.

Have a nice weekend and thanks for leaving a word or two. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on July 10, 2009, 07:28:58 AM
jeese how far is this highway going to go?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 10, 2009, 11:13:50 AM
Here is a more detailed map of the 1961 Winding River Region. As you can see the highway 15 is about 30 % of its length and should be ready in 1966 to make the connection with Frampton's Highway 15. Quite some time still to go.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg122.imageshack.us%2Fimg122%2F6219%2Fwrvhighway.png&hash=44d82ccc01662b1fa7ccdecdc886fccb60079b04)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 10, 2009, 01:32:10 PM
Ok. Wow, only 30% completed? A long way to go!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on July 10, 2009, 04:42:45 PM
Wow only 30% complete in what 9 updates? Then I estimate it will take ..... 29 updates about. So wow You've got alot of ground to cover.

Message:

hi I'm going to air cadet camp for 2 weeks so I'll be gone for a while just to inform you. OK? ok.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on July 10, 2009, 07:36:48 PM
what is up with Imageshack?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 10, 2009, 09:21:50 PM
Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on July 10, 2009, 07:36:48 PM
what is up with Imageshack?

Why? Do you have problems with it?
Seems ok to me.......

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on July 10, 2009, 10:15:15 PM
apparently they got hacked earlier and about half the pics came out like this.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fv314%2FHomeDepotKid%2Fmartincar6q0z6005.jpg&hash=f555e2a294f76c56b3cbfb784e979c527f71ba5d)

Also if I cant get into the Grocery Business,maybe I can build the biggest thing in Acsess Junction, $%Grinno$%

A new hotel franchise!

http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=21973
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 11, 2009, 09:12:03 AM
Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on July 10, 2009, 10:15:15 PM
Also if I cant get into the Grocery Business,maybe I can build the biggest thing in Acsess Junction, $%Grinno$%

A new hotel franchise!
http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=21973

Noted.......;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 12, 2009, 07:03:22 AM
Here is just a small update for the weekend.

It was all over the news today, the Rails are coming to Winding River. Northern Trail Rails (NTR) started to enter the region at its northern point in Bromont, where the terrain is not the easiest to construct rails on, some officials said. But to avoid several bridge constructions it was decided to accept a few kilometers of difficult terrain. It should take two to three years for the completion of the passage.

These rails are supposed to cross one third of the region and turn west sharply near Valmore to connect to an existing rail in the neighboring region.

Access Road west branch was also connected to the next region today and it will be used for the rail construction coming in from the west during the next month.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg53.imageshack.us%2Fimg53%2F4962%2F1bromontrails1.jpg&hash=11a3728b914f78a8ebc2b8a312b842dbd8d6ccc7)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg21.imageshack.us%2Fimg21%2F5679%2F2bromontrails2.jpg&hash=6b9d42b2b7a155602f8732505251877827cd574b)

Mr Sweathers, the surviving pilot that the loggers discovered living in Valmore North for two decennies, was today announced to be in perfect health by the General Hospital in Bluebay. He was then brought to the armybase in Beecherfalls for interogation. Here is another picture of his "domain", which his family meanwhile took posession of.  

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg53.imageshack.us%2Fimg53%2F3720%2F3valmorenorthhome.jpg&hash=081d0aaae7acee3fb8ddabcd1b592c7c53cd240e)

In the same county, Valmore North, the first bridge building of Highway 15 has somewhat advanced. Some support beams for the bridge were constructed and the upper supporting frame should be ready by next month, meaning that before spring 62 arrives, traffic will be able to cross the bridge.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg53.imageshack.us%2Fimg53%2F8866%2F4valmorenorthsupportsvi.jpg&hash=15f1317cb288e9e2b8764f85981abbbf44ad8647)

Young Alex Puto, the Program Manager's assistent, is the responsable for this project. Not very easy for the fresh out of college Engineer, he is doing an excellent job as far as Michael Allheimer, the Project Manager, mentioned it.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg15.imageshack.us%2Fimg15%2F6107%2F5valmorenorthsupportscl.jpg&hash=5248e254800c95ddaa427e4177002b0542c683d3)

One mysterious fellow originally from Bluebay, but now living in Capitol City, Mr Nethaniel Joseph Wellington, has been buying a few stores and buildings in Access Junction lately. No one really knows yet what these will become, but rumours are that they are the beginning of a new foodstore chain.

TS Slye, now 20 years old, reveiled today that the sawmill will eventually move as soon as access to the Winding River has been made with highway 15. Already speculating a place for moving the sawmill to, Slye has also garanteed that no one will loose their job and that a bus transportation system offered by Tom Kohler, a new friend of TS, will be available for the workers, depenses paid by the sawmill. But why he moves the sawmill was not answered. I wonder.....

Michael Arven was hired by the mayor of Access Junction last week to design and organize the new sherrif's office, which was finally accepted by the Government to be built in Access. Lucy's murder is still under investigation and is slowly falling into a deadend zone, as offcials say. Will this become another unsolved murdercase? Lucy did not have any family and left her ownings to the town of Access. The Gasstation was sold to a local fellow who will continue to offer the service to the public, her home to a young mother with two kids from Frampton and the famous truckstop was finally sold to Barbara White, which will take over the business within the next month.

John Gabber, his brother Gary and his father Henry have bought some 2 thousand acres of land near the Winding River curve, where they found the rockskulls. Highway 15 will be going through right in the middle of it.

Valmore South has been busy taking care of the archeological find of the ^petrified dinosaur. It was officially today that this will be the futur site of an important regional museum. A steelframe  covered with glass built right over the petrified skelleton, the first of its kind, was finalized this week and an opening ceremony was held on saturaday evening, of course followed with champagne delights. The glass will be installed right after winter. The cost of this project will be in the millions, which should be very welcomed to the community of Valmore's futur. It will be opened for touristic visits before next summer.
The land around the Valmore lake and village has been sold out like hotcakes to farmers because of the richness of the soils. The government will encourage farming in these counties with plentiful subsidies for those who are willing to start a life in agriculture.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg189.imageshack.us%2Fimg189%2F910%2F6valmoresouthview.jpg&hash=49b713910f893716bbe24aed9a34a35d326d3217)

Here is a closer look of the Valmore village, already having a coffeshop and a small generalstore. Guy Racsan has bought some land near the lake lately and is planning to build a Hotel or Motel for tourists, he announced this morning to the Access Tribune.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg17.imageshack.us%2Fimg17%2F8992%2F7valmoresouthmuseum.jpg&hash=1a0e02fb36e39880253f4240e0769f4b7e45c5a7)

I will be back later this week with a closer look at Access Junction, which grows like crazy. New homes, new commercials, some big industries moving in and the preparation to move the sawmill. Thanks for dropping in and leaving a comment.


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: beutelschlurf on July 12, 2009, 08:42:17 AM
moin mrbisonm,
nice update of your splendit diary!  :thumbsup:
i really like the archeological museum with its frame of steel to protect the bones, ...
it's lovely to see the development of a new settlement, i hope with it's starting agriculture, it's not disturbing the nice places around!
keep it up!

cheers
b_schlurf
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on July 12, 2009, 08:56:16 AM
The devellopemnet looking very good . Great wood bridge that you have done. The construction area look so real and i like the idea of the Arch museum. &apls &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on July 12, 2009, 01:06:43 PM
Fantastic looking update, could I suggest that you try the wide radius rail curves (with the NAM) for your rail corners, it might look better :)

Nice story about Lucy.

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 12, 2009, 01:20:48 PM
beutelschlurf , Thanks for the comment, I still have to bat the glass around the museums steelframe, maybe in one of the next updates.

Thanks kimcar for leaving a word, appreciated.

JoeST, I thought about using the wide curves for the rails, but when I saw the rough terrain I made it easier (for myself of course) to use the maxis curves. Next time, I'll promise. And yes, they do look better, like you said.


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on July 12, 2009, 01:31:35 PM
JoeST, I thought about using the wide curves for the rails, but when I saw the rough terrain I made it easier (for myself of course) to use the maxis curves. Next time, I'll promise. And yes, they do look better, like you said.[/quote]Well tbh rails dont work on 'rough' terrain ;) maybe you should get yourself a custom slopes mod that fixes rails (and maybe RHW) only ?

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 12, 2009, 01:52:07 PM
Cool little update! Will you BAT the bridge and just have it be a hangover lot? That would be very cool!

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: just_a_guy on July 12, 2009, 05:04:48 PM
I just read all of your MD since it's begining and I must say, It's incredibly good! I really like how the region begins to evolve just like in RL. I'm anxious to see how the region continues.

I'm also interested in having a character in your MD, should I PM you with the details or should I just post it here?

Cheers!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 12, 2009, 05:25:19 PM
You must PM him with the details or it will give your character away.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 12, 2009, 05:32:22 PM
JoeST, I think I will leave the rails like this for this part of the region, besides it is only one citytile rough like this. I will use the NAM versions on the lower terrains.

Driftmaster07, I wish I had the time to BAT the bridge, but I guess I will use the standard Maxis bridges or one of those batted ones this time.

just_a_guy, Pm me with the info:

full name and age when entering the story....
Where born and where wants to live.......
profession and futur plans......
family, wife and kids, how many, names and when......
any particular habits and/or wishes.....
etc...

Welcome to the Winding River story.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 13, 2009, 07:31:32 AM
Actually I meant BAT the bridge non functonally and just use it as an overhang lot for now I guess. But its your decision!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 13, 2009, 09:13:41 AM
Quote from: Driftmaster07 on July 13, 2009, 07:31:32 AM
Actually I meant BAT the bridge non functonally and just use it as an overhang lot for now I guess. But its your decision!

I understood what you meant, but I will still have to bat the overhanging prop and the time for that I don't have at the moment. I still have some 60 or so BATs under construction......, maybe later. Maybe the bridge will collapse one day and has to be rebuild......who knows.

:)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 13, 2009, 02:43:51 PM
Ok. A bit of a mix up there I guess!  :-[
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 13, 2009, 07:20:22 PM
I decided tonight to show the last issue from the Access Tribune. Some news that will be shown in the next update. Have a nice week.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg195.imageshack.us%2Fimg195%2F9720%2Faccessnews2.png&hash=6be7c59457244d79113b920a5ee2300dec344e65)

Sorry for the quality, but that's the only one left on the counter.


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 13, 2009, 08:40:11 PM
I like the tiny The at the top of the Tribune. And a fire you say... What caused it?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on July 15, 2009, 04:17:25 AM
Hi Fred, great your last update! It was very realistic to how you built the scenario, with all those works of construction of roads and bridges!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nrmn67 on July 15, 2009, 04:37:43 AM
Hi Mrbison!

Really like your MD. Always interesting how the story will unfold. Only one question, should the archaeological museum not be a paleontological museum? I mean it is about dinosaurs not humans ;).

Looking forward to next installment.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: joelyboy911 on July 15, 2009, 05:07:39 AM
This is a great MD, and a fascinating twist on the classic style. The map you are working with is excellent too. I was also wondering where you got the sawmill on page 17 (?).
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on July 15, 2009, 05:38:55 AM
Cabbage Water! yummy $%Grinno$%

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 15, 2009, 11:36:39 AM
Driftmaster07 , the fire is of accidental matter, probably electrical and maybe the demolition project on the neighboring lot was part of the cause. We'll find out later. Glad you liked the *The* part on top of the Tribune.

Tomas Neto, I like fantasm and science fiction, as long as they have parts of realism combined. Thanks for commenting.

nrmn67 , Hm....maybe you're right, but archeological also means historical finds of ancient times.....The museum will not only be for paleontological subjects but also for historical finds such as ancient pottery etc (one day). Correct me if I'm wrong, I'm not a specialist in this. Thanks for mentioning this.

joelyboy911 ,Great that you like the MD and the region. The sawmill is mine (by Nexis) and not yet offered to the public, it will come though......one day.

NASCAR_Guy, Hm....cabbage water, don't you wonder what that could taste like?  ???


Here's an update to all those who have a character in my story. Btw, more are needed.

NASCAR_Guy..............................................Guy Racsan, the man that is taking over the Racsan empire.
mightygoose..............................................Michael Arven, the young architect that designed Gabber's weekend home on Grasslake and is about to get famous with a new project.
RustyXL......................................................Tom Kohler, the young fellow who just got to Access and opened a one car taxi business a month ago , and is making a transportation contract with TS Slye to transport the sawmill workers from Access to Phlox county, once the sawmill has moved.
TheTeaCat.................................................Diarmuid MacGormain, Charlie's new friend from summerchool, which is about to become a junior soccerhero.
danielcote,.................................................Nethaniel Joseph Wellington, who will be introduced in the next update....btw, the building that burnt down in Access, he just bought.
just_a_guy................................................Riichiou Takahaschi, from Frampton, his parents just moved to Access, enjoying the quieter countrylife. He will be hired by the Gabber Housing management Company soon, which the President is Gary Gabber, John's brother.
threestooges,...........................................TS or Terry Slye, the solumn owner of the Slye woodworks Company, the sawmill in Access Junction.
BarbyW.....................................................Barbara White, the mysterious woman that bought Lucy's Truckstop after her murder.

Driftmaster07...........................................Alex Puto, working as the Assistent Project Manager for Michael Allheimer on Highway 15, and at the moment on the first Winding River Wilderness bridge.

Tonight I will mention all the other characters of WRP.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 15, 2009, 12:56:51 PM
Oh. Thought it was arson.  :-[ With all the things happening in access junction... Who knows?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: joelyboy911 on July 15, 2009, 02:24:21 PM
Oh, I was hoping you wouldn't say that  :P . The reason I ask is that I would quite like to use those log pile props, and timber props seen in the lot.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 15, 2009, 08:13:49 PM
Driftmaster07, I don't think it is arson, we'll find out for sure later. (hope it's not)
joelyboy911, do a search for *Nexis* on Simtropolis and you will find some of those props you are looking for, because some of these Nexis props are old and already available. The other ones, including the sawmill , will be uploaded soon enough I hope.




Here are all the other characters in this story. Just a reminder so we don't forget who is who and what, why ,when.....anyways....

John Gabber, the head of the Gabber family and owner of Gabber Managements which hold several other businesses, like architecture, highway and road construction, neighborhood developpments, city managements, etc...

Henry Gabber, John's father, now retired and only snooking around.
Charlie Gabber, young Charlie who is telling his story.(10 years old)
John Jr Gabber, Charlie's brother who is right now out of the region for studying City managements and wants to take over the Gabber's businesses one day.(20 years old)
William Gabber, also Charlie's brother, who is more interested in living a dangerous and adventurous life than studying. (12 years old)
Vera Gabber, charlie's sister who wants to become a doctor. (18 years old)
Melody-Ann Gabber,another one of Charlie's sister who dreams of working in Dad's business as an accountant. (15 years old)
Uncle Gary Gabber, the President of Gabber's Construction, he is John's brother.
Mary Moondall Gabber, John's wife and the kid's mother.
Mike Allheimer, Number one of Gabber Inc, the right Hand and friend of John Gabber, also the Project Manager of the Highway construction project.
Andy Dubold, the Logger's forman and dircetor of the Gabber's logging industries.
Lucy, who lately got murdered.
Raymond (Ray) Olsen, the owner of the Olsen Pub.
Robert Sweathers, the pilot that survived in the woods for some time.
Joe Bean, the owner of the Access Tribune Journal.
Paul Hubert, the first elected Mayor of Access Jct.

Hope I didn't forget anyone.......


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on July 16, 2009, 10:44:44 AM
does Joe Bean own the toolshop too (below the Tribune)?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 16, 2009, 12:54:44 PM
Quote from: JoeST on July 16, 2009, 10:44:44 AM
does Joe Bean own the toolshop too (below the Tribune)?
No, below the Tribune is Joe's Hardware store, also the owner of that building, no relation to Joe Bean, the Tribune is only renting the second floor.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on July 16, 2009, 12:59:56 PM
Two Joe's in the same building hey :o how surprising :D I might have to arrange a Joe-fest :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: just_a_guy on July 16, 2009, 01:30:10 PM
I bet it would be interesting if Barbara White was the one that murdered Lucy for the truckstop. I can see a future plot there.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: BarbyW on July 16, 2009, 03:53:10 PM
Oi, I don't do murder. $%Grinno$%
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 16, 2009, 08:40:43 PM
Quote from: just_a_guy on July 16, 2009, 01:30:10 PM
I bet it would be interesting if Barbara White was the one that murdered Lucy for the truckstop. I can see a future plot there.

not really, I have something better in mind, a lot less violent....

JoeST, that makes it three Joe's in this thread, enough to found a society. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 16, 2009, 09:56:10 PM
Hey congrats on 20 pages of your MD!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on July 17, 2009, 09:40:14 PM
Hi I came back for the week end so I'll be away for anouther week so doesn't that make you wan't to give me a big hug.
&sly And hey no building of mine burns down! Is it the bake sale, club foods, staff housing or bake sale? What ever it is build it back exactly the same!

Or I'll get my ice cream mophia after you  :P
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CaptCity on July 17, 2009, 10:20:38 PM
Haven't stopped by for a little bit and had to catch up. Things sure have changed. Access Junction sure is growing, got a mayor, an airport coming, and a need for a police department. Hopefully things won't get too bad. Nice detail on the bridge construction, and glad to see rail is coming into the region. Lot's of things happening; can't wait to see what's next...

Oh, yes, cabbage water...? Might know what that is...mm... mmm, good  ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: joelyboy911 on July 17, 2009, 11:12:30 PM
Thanks - I found it. I look forward to the next update.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 18, 2009, 08:26:22 PM
Hey mrbisonm,

Could I have (when I get the acre when it it availiable) this (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=793) as my house? It is perfect! EDIT: How does the crashed pilot have no diseases after living so long without medicine? Also was that the crashed plane from a earlier update?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on July 18, 2009, 08:45:37 PM
Hey Fred I love that bridge construction man that is amazing!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nrmn67 on July 19, 2009, 02:27:20 AM
Well, if you do put some old pottery into it, then it is okay ;).
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 19, 2009, 10:34:48 AM
Driftmaster07 , wow, I didn't even realize it, thanks. Alex Puto will get this house in the link, I downloaded it.........Where do you want it? In Access, Valmore, Grasslake or Phlox? Let me know please.
danielcote, you'll find out later tonight what burnt down and why, also you'll know exaclty what Nethaniel is about to do with this situation, unless you'll be already away for the week. ;)
CaptCity , Wait 'till you see the next two updates, because if you think there's a lot of things going on in the Winding River region, oh boy......more is coming.
Pat , more is coming when they start building the actual frame of the bridgeplatform itself.
nrmn67 I suppose they will. It will be called *Winding River Museum of Natural history*.

I'll be back late tonight with the next update....Lucy's murder is solved, I heard?

Fred

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 19, 2009, 10:51:32 AM
Can I have it in Access Junction? That seems to be the Hub of everything.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on July 19, 2009, 03:38:10 PM
Do you plan on releasing those construction lots and Bats, Mr. Bison?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 19, 2009, 09:39:14 PM
Driftmaster07, ok....next time please pm me with demands, not to give away parts of the story to everyone.
Nexis4Jersey, I don't know yet, if I will release them sometime, if not you can always pm me in a month or so ask for them if I decided not to, and I will send them to you. Remind me in a month.


Nethaniel J. Wellington was out of his mind when he found out that one of his newly purchased building is on fire. Mr Wellington, from Capitol City, has bought four buildings in Access Junction only a week ago. He is planning to build up a foodstore chain called Clubfoods. He grew up in Bluebay, south of here, and so knows a little about the area, where he one day would like to move to. One of his byuildings was in bad condition and he hired some small construction Company to tear down the place and have it rebuild. That's when the fire started in the neighboring building and it was impossible to save. Whether it was their fault or not will probably be decided with the investigation.
Both firemen were out fishing on Grasslake when the fire stroke , and before they came back, the fire was eating away both floors already. Luckily for Wellington, a water transporting truck for a construction site just south of here, was passing at the same moment and seeing the fire, the driver started pumping his water onto the Bake n'Sale building to protect it from catching on fire also.
Mr Wellington appreciated the truckdriver's act.
The two firemen will be questioned by officials next week. I think that they have some serious explaining to do.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg103.imageshack.us%2Fimg103%2F7335%2F1accessfire1.jpg&hash=3c95c117b3cdfec5b5027e4cf5d793fe9ebfa42e)

Now Nethaniel will have to rebuild what he lost, but probably something newer, bigger and more modern as a building for his future business. Luckily for him, all his buildings were fairly well insured, not causing too much of a loss to him.
Of course the dark smoke that the fire created was seen for several miles and draw a lot of curious folks to this place later that day. Everybody now knows that they will see a foodchain store growing here in a few weeks, somewhat kind of an excellent publicity for Clubfoods I guess.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg268.imageshack.us%2Fimg268%2F4397%2F2accessfire2.jpg&hash=d75970d7d67c870784436d9a867dd14a4567b7fc)

After Lucy's murder, the Mayor Paul Hubert had a long and serious talk with the officials from the Governor's office in Frampton City to have an official Police or Sherriff in town. With a population of almost 1500, officials agreed to the fact that they needed urgently some Law and Order in Access, and so a sherriff's office was built. They have three patrol cars and one boat, plus 6 Officers in 3 shifts, which was very much appreciated by the citizens all around. This office will cover Access Junction down to Grasslake and up to Valmore North, where the first bridge is being build at the moment.
The station was built on a lot with a home that was bought and teared down right in front of the Gabber's Park and Soccerfield.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg182.imageshack.us%2Fimg182%2F7640%2F3accessfirstpolice.jpg&hash=82dd958ee3b131a9178a5c254a30673a7b269adc)

"What the hell happened here, ...... did Lucy's shack burn down too?", was heard out of the mouth of John Gabber when he met his friends on Friday afternoon for a quick beer at the junction.
" You didn't come last friday to the meeting, they were tearing it down at the time," Mike Allheimer answered," and we moved our friday's meeting place to the Olsen's Pub."
" Wow, that was some quick leveling, and I thought it burnt down too, hearing of the fire  last wednesday. But why did they tear it down and who is responsable for this?" John continued.
Mike, "The place belongs to Miss Barbara White, she bought it, and it was bought before Lucy's murder ,the Mayor said. Why she brought it down is a mystery to everyone, I don't even know what she's gonna do with the lot now."
" Shame, I think that was one of the first buildings here,almost historical, even before they called it a village" John said, " but now let's talk all this over at the Olsen's Pub. I'm thirsty.", and John started crossing the street towards the pub while he was followed by his usual meeting friends.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg245.imageshack.us%2Fimg245%2F64%2F4accesslucys.jpg&hash=bcad645141fd9cdee4a839ad7977f1214544ce41)

Ts Slye offically announced that he will be moving the sawmill, taking it appart piece by piece and remounting it in Phlox County. It will done before next spring. Already it can be seen some of the action, if we compare it with earlier pictures, that less wood is being piled and stored on the lots. Preparing the big move already, Slye is anxious for his new location which is supposed to improve his production by more than 200%, he said. How exactly he is planning to do this, he didn't say yet, and he left us all wondering.......
Phlox County is just on the other side where they are building the bridge, close to the shores of the mighty Winding River.
It will cost Terry Slye some solid Simoleons I guess, but he must have earned it while his sawmill was running for more than a year at its fullest speed with 3 shifts.
No losses of jobs, he confirmed, and maybe some 200 new ones later on in 1962.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg268.imageshack.us%2Fimg268%2F852%2F5accesssawmilllesswood.jpg&hash=4064cb2505dde8a9a17eb11fb4f1dde090a2e87c)

Some of the population have been reporting the smelly and bad tasting water problem that Access seems to have now. The summermonths brought a lot of heat to the the little pond that is hardly able to supply all the water and the level is low these days, making it even easier to heat by the september sun. Plus there seems to be some minor pollutions nearby, people leaving their garbage. Even the Mayor realizes that it has a cabbage like taste to it sometimes and will be looking deep into the matter. He says that they probably need a new source with better installations, but where will they get the money from?
For the moment being, the waterplants are surely causing the cabbage taste to the water, and they have to be removed as soon as possible. 12 People applied as Volunteers.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg404.imageshack.us%2Fimg404%2F3850%2F6accesswatersupply.jpg&hash=5b74072c420a290ebbbb36a06c3878d7ea50067d)

Looking carefully around the village, we can now see that even some appartments have been built this summer, giving more space for new settlers. And eversince the Access Road has been connected to the west, traffic is more and more observed on these streets. Access Jct will soon become a small town. It has already been added to all the offcial roadmaps along with Highway 15.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F872%2F7accessapparts.jpg&hash=cf0748e92ae889f01ead3cb439a3ab070aee9323)

In Tannington last week, some 75 kilometers north of Frampton, a young fellow with the name of Norman Dottweiler was arrested by the Regional Police after they received a plaint of a woman that was almost choked to death near a small restaurant. With an excellent description from the woman, he was seen right away by a patrolling Policecar near the Tannington Truckstop. He was quickly arrested and brought to Frampton's Police headoffice. In his posession he had some 2000 Simoleons on him. Very unusual for a fellow of 17 years.
The investigators of Lucy's murder were the first to question the subject, because now the investigation shows that Lucy sold her truckstop, because of some health problems, to Barbara White a week before, and she got paid in cash on the night of the murder. It was 2200 Simoleons.
Lucy was going to keep her Gazbar across the road only, which was a lot less labourful. Some serious interogation will take place in Frampton.
We will surely hear more about this..........

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg245.imageshack.us%2Fimg245%2F5835%2F8truckstoparrest.jpg&hash=9623f4719790ddb4a9b8cd1b27f394dc7ce8f93e)

The foundations of the landingstrip was poured in concrete and only 4 days after the first Cargoplane landed to deliver some urgently needed merchandise.
Unbelievable, as Terry Slye described it, seeing a big airplane like this so close over his sawmill. The delivery was ordered by Mr Racsan Sr himself.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg268.imageshack.us%2Fimg268%2F8526%2F9airport.jpg&hash=1dacf58e3258dc23a783410dd429a0bb3e9847ec)

While waiting for the trucks to load the cargo, they started emptying the plane already. The helicopter belongs to Mr Racsan Sr who dropped by to see the first landing on his newly built airfield.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg193.imageshack.us%2Fimg193%2F2600%2F10cargo.jpg&hash=13f893c6864b77d84e558e44d52bb7e520ecd063)

And here is a final look over the village or small town as we might now call it, growing bigger and bigger with time. Rumours are that the sawmill land was already sold.......

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg245.imageshack.us%2Fimg245%2F1329%2F11accesstownview.jpg&hash=c40de12bb3418e3fb3fe44e7398e544016d0e8f0)

That's it for today again, have fun reading it.

Fred


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: beutelschlurf on July 19, 2009, 11:37:12 PM
moin mrbisonm,

nice update ..., the village is growing quite fast ... 
i'm getting confused though: who is the murder of lucy, is it Gerry Mason or Norman Dottweiler? (sorry, maybe my english isn't as good as i thought)  :'(
... everything looking really good, fantastic overview of the town (exactly to the right time),  ... i see a future city center/buisness area on the ground of the sawmill.  :P

cheers
b_schlurf
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 20, 2009, 07:25:06 AM
Quote from: beutelschlurf on July 19, 2009, 11:37:12 PM
moin mrbisonm,


i'm getting confused though: who is the murder of lucy, is it Gerry Mason or Norman Dottweiler? (sorry, maybe my english isn't as good as i thought)  :'(
cheers
b_schlurf


Don't worry beutelschlurf, your english is better than you think.... ;) I got mixed up with the names a little bit, Gerry Mason is another character coming up soon. My mistake. Thanks for pointing it out. I corrected the story above.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 20, 2009, 08:01:48 AM
Awesome update!  :thumbsup: Next time I will PM you with the details. Seems a bit odd that that cargo plane could land at such a small airstrip.

-Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 20, 2009, 09:17:58 PM
Quote from: Driftmaster07 on July 20, 2009, 08:01:48 AM
Awesome update!  :thumbsup: Next time I will PM you with the details. Seems a bit odd that that cargo plane could land at such a small airstrip.

-Alex

I don't know if you meant by "small airstrip" the length of it. Well, the length of this airstrip is about 20% longer than the Maxis international airport. Since this game does have different measures than real life we kinda have to live with it, but I agree with you. ;)

Fred

Sorry for not having shown this picture before.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg217.imageshack.us%2Fimg217%2F5263%2Fairport3.jpg&hash=8ba66408f8ce37100ad652a737a4b05338db3240)


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CaptCity on July 20, 2009, 10:12:06 PM
Access Junction has grown up and made the map (nice aerial picture)... Great news!  &apls   
Interesting turn of events in Lucy's case... Hmmm   &Thk/(   
And I wonder who bought the sawmill land  ()meeting() ...Gotta be an outlet mall  ;)

Always things happening in the Winding River Project :blahblah: 

Nice update.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on July 21, 2009, 06:55:17 AM
I agree about the publicity . ::) No one should have no doubt about it.  $%Grinno$% Nice update mate :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 21, 2009, 07:13:08 AM
Oh, thats how long it is! I love the overveiw. It is just long enough for that plane I beleive. Also...... What will replace Lucy's Truckstop?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: just_a_guy on July 21, 2009, 08:27:38 AM
Interesting update! I like how the murder case is going. And the growth is fantastic. It's always nice to compare how it's grown. This isn't too important but for the sake of realism, I would have that barn house to the right of the landing strip demolished (in the picture where the whole landing strip is visible) for safety reasons. Usually there's a long empty space after the end of the runaway "just in case".

Looking foard for the next update!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on July 21, 2009, 06:04:45 PM
Nice update again!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 22, 2009, 05:03:12 PM
CaptCity, well, the sawmill's land was sold to Guy Racsan and he is about to change the face of Access Junction, (I heard). ;)

kimcar , thanks for dropping in. A publicity like this in a small village or town always gets around fast.

Driftmaster07 , well I don't know what's gonna replace Lucy's Truckstop, maybe another one, maybe a hotel?......a bar?....a motel?... or a simple bus stop?......We will probably find out with the next update, there's a lot of rumours about it.

just_a_guy, You're quite right about the barn, I just saw that too, must have grown without me realizing it. It will be moved next time. ;)

Tomas Neto, come again.


Now, there are some strange things going on in the Winding River Wilderness. Two bridge workers have disappeared without leaving a trace......hm....?

Fred

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 22, 2009, 05:28:37 PM
Aliens?  :D :P Maybe. A lot of strange things have already happend.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on July 22, 2009, 05:38:26 PM
QuoteCaptCity, well, the sawmill's land was sold to Guy Racsan and he is about to change the face of Access Junction, (I heard).

I think you're confusing me with my father. :P

anyway is this for the land based division of the country or or the air based part of the company
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 22, 2009, 08:01:09 PM
Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on July 22, 2009, 05:38:26 PM
I think you're confusing me with my father. :P

anyway is this for the land based division of the country or or the air based part of the company

If you have the character of Guy Racsan, then I am not confusing you with the Mr Racsan.
Guy is only about to start one of his own businesses (I can't say more, not to give away any surprizes for the story) and that is coming up soon.

Driftmaster07, Aliens?.....I don't think so......well, I hope not.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on July 22, 2009, 08:15:46 PM
I was not aware that I needed that much land for something 1x2. :P

Sorry, if I am sounding harsh, really trying not to be. PM me with details of whats happening?

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 22, 2009, 08:27:52 PM
Maybe an anceint skull people trap.....  >:D I cant wait!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on July 23, 2009, 12:19:00 PM
Or another dinosaure  ()lurker() ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 23, 2009, 03:25:42 PM
Yeah but aren't dinos extinct?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 23, 2009, 08:29:28 PM
............maybe they simply drowned in the river?...........just maybe..........
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 23, 2009, 08:31:27 PM
Yeah but they wouldve found em right?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: just_a_guy on July 23, 2009, 09:37:52 PM
ut they haven't explored everything in the region have they? Or did they...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 24, 2009, 09:18:54 AM
Driftmaster07 , depending on how they disappeared, many speculations, but not really any facts nor solutions. If they fell into the Chimeriver, where the bridge is being build, it only is about one more kilometer long when it hits the Mighty Winding River, see picture.
The big white circle is where the search and rescue teams are now concentrating their searches.

just_a_guy, what you see on the picture below is about only 20 % of the whole region and only a few parts of this has been fully discovered and explored yet, imagine all the rest? The whole eastside of the region (about 60% of the total) is completely unknown, except for some aerial mapping. I guess many things are still to be explained and maybe many mysteries are yet to be solved.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg50.imageshack.us%2Fimg50%2F5213%2Fregionlostworkers.png&hash=846f12224338bfe1e2e5d5f2299858b76afff341)

An important update will come on sunday night. Some things will be cleared, but new problems arrise. It is winter of 1961/62. The bridge construction has stalled because of severe weather conditions, survival of the two workers illiminated, Water and power problems are close to the acceptable limits, a new problem arrises with garbage,  a new mayor is proposed to be elected, demanteling of the sawmill has started, the Highway Soccer Team wins the national championship, the government gives green light to a big construction Company to create new neighborhoods, accidental death in the Gabber family  and the US have shipped armies to Vietnam.

See you then
Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on July 24, 2009, 11:10:06 AM
This project continues to develop beautifully, and the story is coming along nicely!  I'm enjoying how you really look carefully at the small individual stories in the middle of a developing region like this.  Looking forward to seeing what else is coming! 
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 24, 2009, 12:00:51 PM
Uh oh. Who died?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on July 24, 2009, 05:28:55 PM
Wow airport half finished, New stores mill leaving space for a bigger downtown, appartments my staff residence burning down   &Thk/( What elase did I miss? Pluss I passed Basic! Yay me  $%Grinno$% By the way I'd actualy like it if you rebuilt it in an old style with a modern twist. Yeah I'll have a colonal staff residence.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on July 25, 2009, 04:22:43 PM
I love reading your stories , they fit nicely into the Mayoral Diary  :thumbsup: &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on July 26, 2009, 03:07:20 PM
Wow! This update will be really important! I´ll be here to see!!!
Sorry my friend, but I didn´t find the link of the sign of the Mc Donalds..., was in the Simtropolis, but I believe I have been deleted!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 26, 2009, 08:30:46 PM
I am sorry, but I won't be able to make my update tonight, because RL situation is a little tight at the moment and free time has become a luxury these days. I will though make two or three smaller updates during this week. Hope you all understand. Thanks.

Battlecat
, joining an interesting story to the game makes it more fun to follow I think. Thanks for coming by again.

Driftmaster07  I can't really answer that because it will give away the punch, but one member of the Gabber family accidently died and the whole family feels deep sorrow these weeks.

danielcote, well you missed a lot, but hopefully you're not lost. I'll wait for your decision.

Nexis4Jersey ,glad you like the story, as long as you have fun reading it.

Tomas Neto, thanks for coming and don't worry about the McDo sign, I found it by searching for McDonald on ST. Thanks.


See ya all soon.
Fred

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 27, 2009, 06:06:46 AM
Oh. Well I'm looking foreward to the next update!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 28, 2009, 08:21:44 PM
««" I have never in my 68 years of existance seen the Bluebay river nor the Valmorelake frozen.(picture below)," Grandpa said at our Sunday breakfast table at our place in Bluebay."It never got this cold before and I have no idea why the darn dominant wind has changed its direction to the north in the last two weeks."
Pa with his mouth full of some of the best fried breakfast potatoes around, added," I have no idea neither, ever since those two workers disappeared 12 days ago, some things are turning bad as if..." swallowing his last potatopiece,"....nah, I know they've got nothing to do with that. We just have to wait, simply wait....... but the kids are having fun. I had to buy four sets of skates this week. Only John Junior doesn't want to skate, says he afraid of the ice breaking under his feet.....haha, with one foot of ice and only two feet of water below in the backyard he surely doesn't need to know how to swim, right sonny?", looking at me, Charlie.
" Junior is a smallbrained lemming, I told you so last month, when he saw that eal near the beach and almost called the coastguard and......."
Mom told me to stop, I couldn't even finish my sentence but it's true, my brother is a weekling, or is it weakling....lol.»»

This is the Valmore lake, frozen like never before. Since approximately 2 weeks cold weather has invaded the whole eastcoast, including Bluebay, Frampton and the Winding River Region. On Highway 15, everything has stopped, too cold to finish with the asphalt, too cold to pour the concrete, and only the loggers can be seen in action nowadays, saying the weather is just perfect for them, making it easy on transporting the logs on the frozen ground and sandroads.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg199.imageshack.us%2Fimg199%2F5537%2F1valmoresouthlakefrozen.jpg&hash=896e76c2c6a392abe91e1003a852c0d5319a6df1)

12 days ago 2 bridgebuilding workers disappeared all of sudden and didn't report back to the job next morning. The search and rescue was called up. Most of the other workers have seen them on the northside of the bridge the evening before, twisting and tying the steelrods for the inside of the concrete bases. The river just started to get frozen and the idea that they fell into the river is out of question, since no traces nor holes in the ice were found.
Police, firefighters and volunteers from Access, Sandom and even Bluebay have looked for traces that could lead to them for several days, but without any success. The search was officially put aside after 6 days until the river melts and only two specialists of the federal Police from Bluebay will keep on studying the circumstances of their disappearance

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg199.imageshack.us%2Fimg199%2F8449%2F2valmorenorthmissingwor.jpg&hash=68ed97c232a9836d47ae6de50b52e6be0b12c764)

On the Access road, in between Sandom and Access Junction, another problem has suddenly arised and it has become a serious public danger. Four cars and truckaccidents with local wildlife have made several victims. No simlife has been lost yet, but people are getting nervous about the situation.
The Mayor of Access Junction, Paul Hubert, refuses to look into this matter, telling everyone that it doesn't concern the municipality, but the government only. Citizens started to complain that the mayor doesn't concern about the people's welfare anymore.....and .....all of sudden the water and powerproblem came again into the hot discussion at the monthly meeting at the townhall.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg269.imageshack.us%2Fimg269%2F5136%2F3grasslakewildlife.jpg&hash=ee742688f220ec1336cc4d804d8ebf313b36cda9)

The only thing that seems to go well these days in the Winding River Region are the rails in the north, who advance almost 4 miles a week, even with this cold weather and the airport which is about to flatten the last coat of these cementy rocks for the runway. Also the control tower got finally finished.
Already, the runway gets weekly traffic, something that the airport workers don't really like, but the population of Access fully greet.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg199.imageshack.us%2Fimg199%2F6501%2F4acceeairport.jpg&hash=1299ce7694569e5f335203a21742e9208fcd2c86)

It is december 1961, just a few days before christmas and the Vietnam War officially has begun, as the first American helicopters arrived in Saigon along with 400 U.S. personnel. Will the war influence their country?  


This was the first part of three updates that I will upload this week, hope you enjoy.

Coming up:
- Garbage is out of control, Mayor blamed, Townhall threatened to be burnt down if the mayor does not give in and resign.
- Slye's sawmill started moving to Phlox.
- A new Year (1962) with a new plan for Access, New neighborhood planned by a big firm from Frampton. This is serious competition with Gabber Inc.
.........and more.

Have a nice week ;)
      Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: just_a_guy on July 28, 2009, 08:33:50 PM
Nice frozen water effect! You did that with Photoshop right? It looks great.

Nice update. I'm looking forward for the cause of the two workers disapearance.

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: beutelschlurf on July 29, 2009, 03:46:30 AM
moin Fred,
... the suspense continues! just great!  %BUd%

thanx a lot ...
b_schlurf
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on July 29, 2009, 06:14:18 AM
the frozen rivers look awsome  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on July 29, 2009, 10:10:28 AM
A lot of dramatical situation over here. Hope they find the workers. Amd great frozen river too. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: carkid1998 on July 29, 2009, 10:20:01 AM
Wow! I have been following this MD for a while, but I haven't replied.

I like the frozen water! And I wonder what happened to those workers.. maybe monsters... :P  :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 29, 2009, 11:52:57 AM
Fantastic update! I won't be around for a while (computre has major problems) so this is just a heads up. I havent stopped watching this MD just I won't be able to comment. Don't worry! I'm still here!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on July 29, 2009, 01:05:21 PM
Wooww, my friend!!! Fantastic..., very very great update!!!  &apls &apls &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: io_bg on July 29, 2009, 01:32:25 PM
Hi, Fred, your MD is awesome! I really love the picture with the bridge construction! I've been following your MD since its start, but I never commented... Sorry for that! In the future you'll see more comments from me ;) Keep the great work up!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 31, 2009, 08:53:17 PM
just_a_guy , well, I don't use photoshop that much, mostly because I don't know how yet, except for writings. This watermod is one of the pioneers from the begining of SC4. Not quite sure who did it, I think it is one of Joerg's watermods, the name on the file is *icyartic*.

b_schlurf, the suspense will continue for a few simyears yet, I think....;)

kimcar, glad to dropped in again.

carkid1998 , monsters you think? Hm, what do you call monsters? Welcome to WRP.

Driftmaster07, good luck with computer, we'll be here waiting for ya.

Tomas Neto , thanks, glad you liked it.

io_bg, glad to see one of our Bordertown specialists here. Enjoy.


Part2/3

*We want a new Mayor*.  These words could be heard all over Access Junction. The waterproblem is getting worse and now they even have fluctuations in the powersystem and the worst is that most of the people bring their own garbage into the woods. How about a place to put the rubbish and have it dug under? Just like in other towns. That question was asked during the latest townhall meeting. ¸
It is January and the first meeting was held, the Mayor made his annual promisses which he probably couldn't meet anyways, and the people asked for better services of all trades.
Garbage is actually the biggest problem right now, not only have they several different places like this shown below in the county, but also a lot of garbage is now seen at streecorners, in backyards and in ditches alongside of some roads. Something has to be done.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg444.imageshack.us%2Fimg444%2F3787%2F1accessgarbage.jpg&hash=3537cbb9a703e737a018531bceb582887f736140)

Slye's sawmill is now showing that it is moving to another place. Some buildings have been demantled and moved to Phlox county where the new samill will stand. Also we can see that less and less woodpiles are visible.
John Gabber, former partner of the sawmill, came by for a chat with TS Slye and what he found out was surprising to him. Ts told John what he had in mind with the sawmill and the mainreason he moved to Phlox.

««" They don't call you Slye for no reason, right TS? J.Gabber said while looking at him with a big smile. That is very well thought of and surely the best way to jump up in affairs."
"Thanks John," Slye answered," I had this in mind as soon as I heard that the rails were passing through at exactly that place."
John:"Son of a gun, why didn't I think of that, now you got the rails and the big river to your advantages," stopping talking and thinking for a few seconds"Hey.....that makes me think of something. I have to go now, things to do.....Bye" and John left in a hurry as if he had an important meeting to attend.»»

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg73.imageshack.us%2Fimg73%2F5079%2F2accesssawmillmoving.jpg&hash=891aeaf15ec6260266751f47496ef249b255f598)

The young man that was arrested in Lucy's case, was today released, it was proven that he didn't murder Lucy. Another well known and important person in Access was taken under the magnifying glass and it is now considered as the first suspect. The Police did not reveil his or her name yet, and probably the person himself doesn't know yet. But I'll bet we'll find out sooner or later.

Gabber Inc has serious competition. John Gabber almost freaked out when he heard about this. Since City-management is one of the Gabber's branches and speciality, John had good reasons to be somewhat mad. A big Construction Company from Frampton received the job to build new residential neighborhoods in Access. Now that the government has realized that a certain potential for a bigger future exist for Access and investing and encouraging the region surely will help its development. Therefore new neighborhoods were to be created. The reason why the Government has chosen another Company for this job is simple. They never prefer only one Company for several jobs.
Riichirou Takahaschi, a man in his early thirties, was hired by Pfalo Constructions and Managements to create these new residential neighborhoods. They said that he is one of the best. Born in Frampton, but with parents from Japan, Riichirou is a Chief Civil Engineer with a lot of experience. John Gabber did not meet him yet, he would probably make him an offer he couldn't refuse.
Not long after Riichirou made some of the plans for the western part of the county, roads were started to being build. Now Mr Takahaschi will be working on two other residential areas in Access. Mr Racsan Junior, who bought the land from Slye (sawmill) is already working on plans for his futuristic downtown. Will this become a shopping mall? Rumours say so....

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg189.imageshack.us%2Fimg189%2F6458%2F3accessview1962.jpg&hash=63b7f8d2e28a0b220d4ffb1cde8d5d475aec815b)

So may news and so little time to tell you all of it, here are some headlines that will be discussed later:

- Mr Wellington officially announced that he will be building the first Clubfoods in Access, a store for every nutrition needs.
- Tom Kohler also announced his new and first busline from Access to Phlox, going through Valmore. Opening on May 16th 1962 with two busses.
- The gouvernment will build an official building this spring, holding several gouvernmental offices, such as revenue, environment, law and several others.

I'll be back soon again.

Fred

EDIT: Dohhh, I forgot to join the pics.....lol....sorry, it is fixed now. ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 31, 2009, 09:15:03 PM
Im back! Didn't take as long as I had feared. Nice update!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: RustyXL on July 31, 2009, 09:48:26 PM
Sorry I haven't commented on the past couple of updates, they've all been great. Although I don't know how you landed a 747 on that runway :P. Yay, there's finally going to be some bus service. Since it's 1962 it would be cool if the buses were GM Fishbowls (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GM_New_Look_bus).
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 31, 2009, 10:20:32 PM
Quote from: RustyXL on July 31, 2009, 09:48:26 PM
Although I don't know how you landed a 747 on that runway :P.

Well, I didn't land that thing, but someone did. ;)

Driftmaster07 , that wasn't a big problem for sure, to be fixed so quickly.  :thumbsup:

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on August 01, 2009, 05:09:41 AM
I like the stories you write , to  fit in with your region &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TheTeaCat on August 01, 2009, 05:47:08 AM
Excellent update. Things certainly are starting to progress in Access Junction.


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on August 01, 2009, 06:06:32 AM
That garbage problem is on actuality, cause we see that too often. Great imagination that you have. &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on August 01, 2009, 06:15:27 AM
Actually it was a few days into the problem that had a chance to tell you.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on August 01, 2009, 07:48:23 AM
I like how you made the garbage with tall grass and dead tree's around it, but you still do have to fix that problem. The towns looking good with more apartments in counting.  :thumbsup: nice.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: carkid1998 on August 01, 2009, 09:32:37 AM

Can't wait to see the new neighbourhoods! :D

And about the monsters, anything mystical and evil!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on August 01, 2009, 11:19:38 AM
Thanks for all the comments.


Part3/3


This is the last part of this update.
We haven't been in Grasslake for some time. John Gabber had his loghome built that Michael Arven has designed. The last time we saw it was in September 1961, I think, and now it is January 1962. The home is almost finished, but because of the cold weather, some windows will have to wait to be installed until better weather has arrived. The cost of this cottage was much more than expected, but the Gabber family is quite satified the way it turned out. Even Charlie likes it, especially his own big room upstairs.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg268.imageshack.us%2Fimg268%2F4962%2F1grasslakechalet.jpg&hash=defaa7822bd96d3f016b0364d20e91cbf2b5cbd0)

Grasslake also is frozen which is very surprizing to a lot of people. Because grasslake is close to the Mighty Winding River which brings in the cold air from the north, the lake here has thicker ice than Valmore and others. Landing on the lake with the old Rover is too dangerous or even impossible now, therefore John has to take his pickup or car to come to work, which is more than an hour's drive from Bluebay.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg512.imageshack.us%2Fimg512%2F5558%2F2grasslakeviewchalet.jpg&hash=6d989b7f2293c4359879807e1d83fcd25aa492ac)

The government has been surveying the River Valley by air in the last few weeks, more and more often it seems. No one really knows anything about this, except seeing some military planes passing here and there at low altitudes.
Just before the bridge in Valmore North, a Highway Maintenance office was built to continuesly keep the highway under excellent condition. Another one will be built before the second crossing of the Winding River. Already some landlots have been sold for additional building here, like for a big Gazstation, a motel and a fastfood restaurant. These will be built only in a year or so though, when the highway has continued its path towards the north.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg268.imageshack.us%2Fimg268%2F2091%2F3valmorenorthroadminist.jpg&hash=1404b573fc9196a8b7b9b55e7dc0094dfe19f17e)

A close up of the Ministry of Transportation maintenance shows us also parts of the highway bridge construction, which has stopped for this period of colder weather.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg12.imageshack.us%2Fimg12%2F4092%2F4valmorenorthroadminist.jpg&hash=a0db8ff2443acc2a311ee8bf6bdab3a6f90aa950)

John Gabber went away for a couple of days, visiting the Capitol City with his wife and his father and also to speculate on some land in Phlox County. He, his father Henry and his best friend and chief of Construction Staff, Mike Allheimer, have finally bought together some 1,200 acres in Phlox County. Highway 15 will pass right through this immense county, which almost covers 20% of the whole valley.
We all know the reason behind the purchase, right? Remember when they first came here for a fishing trip and found the rockskull houses from a legendary people that were to exist here? Well, that land is now sold to the Gabber's and Allheimer. Just a few steps away from the land that TS Slye bought for the sawmill.
When others were informed about the sudden land purchase of the Gabber's, many investors started buying parts of it also, thinking positively about a profitable reason that the Gabber's bought all these landlots.  

«« "I have never been so poor in my life, except for when Grandpa told me to pay my own appartment when I was 17," John told his wife on the way back from Capitol City while looking at his father Henry with a smile. " But I hope that Mike was right about buying the land around the rockskulls, that they're real and not just some fakes of imagination."
Grandpa Henry: " You know son, even if it isn't true, the investment is still surely worth it. We will build the highway, then come the people to settle and they need land and more we wait to sell, more the profits will be great. I got a funny feeling about this area and believe me, it is not bad at all."
" I hope so too, because we even gathered parts of our savings for these empty acres." Mary Moondall/Gabber (John's wife) told Grandpa with a somewhat worried expression.
Grandpa with a winking eye answered, " Don't worry little Lady," as he calls his daughter in law all the time, "I told you I have a good feeling about this and for the last 40 years of investing without any losses, it makes this feeling solid enough, I think. Just wait and see."»»

True, Henry Gabber started investing when he was 20 and never had any major losses of any kind, building up an enormous and successful well known Company with three different departments.(City and Town managements, Road and Highway Constructions and Bridgebuilding.)

Back at home young Charlie started asking questions about the Phlox County acres, mainly to know if the fishing is good nearby will be as good as on Grasslake. Charlie was with his friend Diarmuid, who came over for the week. These two are now together almost all the time.

««" What the heck is this?" Grandpa Henry asked surprizingly Charlie who held a cup of tea in his hands. "Since when are you drinking tea? Don't you think you're a little too small for this?"
" It is good for you, Mom told so, besides Diarmuid made me taste it a few weeks ago and I like it." Charlie answered with a little growling voice.
" Ah, let them have their tea," Mother Mary told Grandpa, " they've doing it for weeks, besides it's a lot better than that little bottle of your "healthjuice" that you always take along wherever you go, right?"
Grandpa Henry thought it was about time to disappear urgently and told everyone that he had someone waiting at home and left.»»


That's it again until the next update. Many important changes and news will be shown, some of which are already mentioned earlier. Have a nice weekend ya all and thanks for dropping by.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TheTeaCat on August 01, 2009, 01:05:34 PM
This just gets better and better :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Fab new house the Gabbers ended up with. Fits in very well indeed,and great to see that Diarmuid has a persuaded Charlie to try some Tea, even better to hear that he likes it  :D ;D

looking forward to the next installment :thumbsup:

:satisfied:
TTC
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on August 01, 2009, 03:40:26 PM
Good little update! Wheres Grandpa Henry off to?  ???
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on August 01, 2009, 03:57:19 PM
Thoroughly enjoyed the 3 parts to that update! The question on my mind is: What is gonna replace the sawmill's property in town?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on August 02, 2009, 05:56:52 AM
Me too. And Lucys Truckstop.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on August 02, 2009, 06:34:54 AM
 &apls Nice to see the house with roof , nice shape. And your frozen water is well done  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on August 03, 2009, 10:17:27 AM
Nice update Mr B.

Love that moose coming up to investigate the trash pile. ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: just_a_guy on August 03, 2009, 01:39:39 PM
Great update as always!

I really thought the sawmill property was going to become one of those new neighborhoods. It looked big enough and something similar in the city I live in got turned into a neighborhood not long ago. But I think the shopping center sounds better, since it would be in downtown.

Now i'm guessing the Gabber's loghome is a bat you made right? If so, I would recomend changing the roof texture a bit. If it has shingles on the roof, make the tiles more visible. Even though they're green, each shingle has a different shade of green. I hope you understand what I mean. Besides that I really like the style of the house. it's unique because it's not "just" a square :thumbsup:

I'll be looking forward for the next update.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on August 03, 2009, 04:20:04 PM
Really very nice update, again!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on August 04, 2009, 10:49:57 AM
TheTeaCat , Glad you like it, who knows maybe Charlie becomes addicted.....;)
Driftmaster07, home, I guess....
kimcar thanks
NASCAR_Guy also thanks
just_a_guy, Yeah, I know about the roof, haven't found the ideal texture in that color yet and I needed the bat like *now*. I still have to put in some windows, create a second floor terrace on the right roof and put in some windows.
Tomas Neto , nice to see you again.


The next update will be done only in about two weeks, I will be gone and gusy for the next two weeks, busy to take some vacation elsewhere.....you know, like in other places where I have not been yet, but I will stay inside Canada this time, haven't seen everything yet  ;)

I will drop in once in awhile though and look at things.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on August 04, 2009, 02:06:41 PM
Ok. Can't wait for the next update!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on August 04, 2009, 04:25:47 PM
ok ...... where are you going?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on August 04, 2009, 07:43:31 PM
Quote from: danielcote on August 04, 2009, 04:25:47 PM
ok ...... where are you going?

We haven't made any specific plans, so we will just wander from one place to another, starting with Tadoussac ...   http://www.tadoussac.com/
..... to see some whales, Belugas and Humpbacks and from there on we'll see.....
;)


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on August 04, 2009, 08:22:05 PM
that sounds nice.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on August 04, 2009, 09:19:23 PM
Have fun!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on August 29, 2009, 08:01:19 AM
hm its been past 2 weeks.  &mmm
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lynncanox on August 30, 2009, 11:29:47 AM
Fred is on a fishing trip for a few days, we just come back from vacations on friday. It seems he had not enough. LOL. He will be back before this week ends.

his wife, Lynn
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on August 30, 2009, 11:38:53 AM
Thanks for the update Lynn :)  I hope he is enjoying himself on his long hollidays :D

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on August 30, 2009, 03:03:05 PM
yah me too he deserves it!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on August 31, 2009, 03:40:10 AM
Yes he does!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: soulchaser on September 07, 2009, 08:27:43 AM
Currently at work, I found this again. darn, I had a lot to catch up. I always forget what I looked at, when I'm at home...maybe it's time toget some pen and paper, to write it down^^...

Still looks great. very realistic ( if you forget this giant airplan for a second ;) ) and eyepleasing.
maybe I'll PM a new charakter, if you still want some.....
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on September 09, 2009, 08:26:31 AM
Yeah, sorry about the big airplane....lol.
Of course you can PM me with a character. Here's what I need to know to start with:

1.  full name/sexe and age at the moment of entry.
2.  Beginning with what kind of line of work and ending with what profession when aged, also places where where it will be.
3.  Where he/she's from and where he/she wants to live.
4.  anything he/she is interested in and maybe some other details of character that might help me to develop an interesting story.

You can change or add things during the story by simply pm'ing me any time and I might ask you also for some things during his/her life.

As you can see, I'm finally back from my looong summervacation and believe me, I had one heck of a beautiful, fun having and enjoyable summer. It will be sometime in the beginning of next week that I will upload an interesting update of the Winding River story with many new changes to the region. See you then.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on September 09, 2009, 01:21:26 PM
Hey! Glad you are back! Can't wait for another update!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on September 15, 2009, 07:35:35 PM
I am quite busy with a real-life job for the next two days, plus with the GRV II Challenge, so I will only update during the next weekend, but not to discourage you again, here's a teaser.

Close to Phlox County, the Rails have reached its first rivercrossing and the Construction company is about to start building the bridge. Just what the TS Sawmill was waiting for on the other side of the river.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg41.imageshack.us%2Fimg41%2F127%2F2orfordrailriverviewe.jpg&hash=e4a780d6f5a90e7f17d4928819a4e340233a2af4)

A govermental project that started lasted year was approved today. The Winding River Valley will have a western Highway connection to Highway 15, Highway 15A-West, probably connecting in Phlox County.
Wow, Phlox county.....hm...... lotsa things going on there these days.


Fred
Have a nice week.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CaptCity on September 15, 2009, 09:29:14 PM
Good to see that you had a good vacation and glad to see you back. Looking forward to the next update... and the next... and the next... as well as those 'interesting' developments in the continuing story line. Can't wait...

CaptCity
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on September 16, 2009, 01:32:16 PM
Nice job can't wait for the new highways!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on September 16, 2009, 03:41:17 PM
Yay the stories back up again!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on October 03, 2009, 06:28:43 PM
I know, I have been neglecting my diary this summer, but real life has taken so much of my time lately that I couldn't find any freetime to continue it. Finally, here is the continuing story, hope you didn't forget where we left off.? ;)



During the last wintermonths of 1962/63 in the Winding River Region, many things have changed, also some other things are cleared now and new mysteries arrose.
The rails in the north have reached the Orford river by now, close to Phlox County where T. Slye from the Slye sawmills is eagerly waiting for them. Also did the highway 15 advance and it is getting closer to the big river crossing, probably the most difficult construction on the whole highway project.
The map below reveils some of what is done and still to do. A lot of land was lately sold to Mr Sterling, a man from descendance of the Natives of this area. He is the richest and most powerful man in Frampton, owning many different Finance and Insurance companies. Some folks say that he bought the land because of possible oil resources, but he specified in the latest interview with the media that he simply wants the land back that once was occupied by his ancestors. (the land he bought is shown in green on the map below) Other parts also have been bought by him and his Company, but which are not located on this part of the map.

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Both tracks of the rails newly constructed near the Orford river are busy 24 hours a day. While one side comes and picks up the lumber that is being cut for making room for the rails, the other side brings in the materials for constuction of the rails themselves. The rails have to touch the region limits in the west by the end of this summer (1963). Winter is soon over and spring is just waiting for the mild western wind to blow the landscapes and awakening nature.

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No useless banana peeling here and the tracks advance by a mile a day. Thirty loggers make sure that no one from the construction company is waiting and turning thumbs.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg30.imageshack.us%2Fimg30%2F4936%2F4orfordrailconstr2.jpg&hash=2673b8f19cc86a9522af08a3700b41795a0fa0c6)

Back in Grasslake it is different, almost contrary. Logs are waiting to get picked up since several months now and even some logs are starting to blacken on their ends, which is really not a good sign for the quality. Loggers themselves were asked to slow down and take on smaller dayshifts. Every morning hundreds of people travels these roads to get to work and they have to confront the logs on the side of the roads for miles and miles. The sawmill moved to Phlox and it will still take a couple of months to be rebuild there, before they can start picking up the logs. Slye's whole sawmill crew are working on the mill to rebuild.
John Gabber himself told Slye that it was not a good idea to have moved the sawmill at this point of the year, where the logging is the best and the busiest. TS knows about the problem and somehow regrets it, but things have started and now are pushed to finish. A lot of pressure is on his back now and he is asking himself how he will be able to pick up the lost time in the coming spring and summer.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg194.imageshack.us%2Fimg194%2F1189%2F5grasslakewesttrafficpr.jpg&hash=580224587f797dc55aecaf36eb162b83b2da1e71)

«« " They both said that it was the crystals that control everything," an older man told the police inspector about the last conversation he had with the two missing highwayworkers of last fall, "I asked them what crystals, and then they both pointed to the other side of the river", he continued," You know, I didn't bother with this no longer because I had more important things on mind and I told them to get ready for the cement in two hours when I come back with the third load of concrete, but......I never saw them again eversince, and now I ask myself what they meant with those crystals. Did you guys go to the other side and had a look yet?"»»
As soon as the ice broke away from the river the police, fire and rescue department went back to the bridge site to continue the search for these two missing workers. Every inch of ground and every footdeep of water was thouroughly searched and turned over without any success sofar.
Of course all this is slowing down enormously the bridge construction for the highway, something that John Gabber and his Project Manager Mike Allheimer don't like at all.  
««" They probably had a drink or two too much and somehow drowned in the river that day, then floating away," Mike told John in a meeting, " and they both became part of the descent. They're probably someplace on a beach in the big river by now and serving as crow and raven meal." John shook his head with understanding and replied:
"Yeah, You're probably right, Mike, but the Sherrif told us not to do anything on the northside on the river until he clears it. That's his order, but he'll better do it soon, because those days lost cost me and everyone else a lot of money and time."....
"Did you hear about those crystalthings or whatever these workers told Ronny ?" Mike asked John.
"Yeah, but I can't make anything out of it......maybe we should go back to the old camping ground and have a closer look at the rockskulls, although I can't remember having seen any crystals there. You know, that place is less than 2 kilometers from here, just east of the bridge." and John was pointing to the bigriver eastwards.
" I think we should start talking about those skulls we found, now that we bought most of the land. I don't think they can take it away from us anymore" Mike continued. John shook his head again, this time in a negative motion.
"Nah, just leave it like this for awhile, we'll go back to that beach and have a good look first."»»

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While the Police keeps on searching in Valmore we will visit the new Highway Maintenance and surveillance office near the newly built bridge. Pelver Inc from Frampton got the job for the highway maitenance and they didn't loose any time to construct an office and a garage. They will take care of the highway 15 once finished, from Access Junction (now more oftenly called *Access Center*) down to the second big river bridge which is about 30 miles from here.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg199.imageshack.us%2Fimg199%2F3351%2F7valmorenorthconstr.jpg&hash=a24394daf195c73b5a82cc3da365f64952bed00a)

Bob Sweathers is back home. The lost second world war pilot was brought back to his simple log, stone and straw home in Valmore after several months of health checking and interogations with the army (Airforce) and the National Bureau of investigations (NBI). He was offered 150 Hectars (some 300 plus acres) of land surrounding his primitive retreat in Valmore, where he absolutely wanted to go back to. With an important Government Grant , he will now be able to build himself a new home and do some serious farming with larger fields and machineries.

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Back in Access Center (formerly Access Junction). A mayor was elected since the first Mayor of the town was literally thrown off his chair because of missing interest to his fellow citizens. The new Mayor, Steven Bartlett, sounds more promissing and although he never asked to be a Mayor, the population gave him no other choice to become the second Mayor of Access Center.
In the first meeting  Mr Bartlett promissed to take care of the garbage, power and water problem first, which is by the way the main reason why Paul Hubert, the first Mayor, was released of his seat. Then he will take care of the other needs of his population, including to get more industries to move in.

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The next week after his election, the Mayor and his team already had a plan for the water and energy crisis, which was finally accepted all within a few weeks. Lake Ruskin, just 3 kilometers north from Access Center was the ideal place to build a small hydro-electric dam and since the lake is very pure in waterquality, it will also be an excellent source of Drinking water. Construction for both facilities will start this summer and should be finished and functional within two years. The lake itself belongs to the Muller's brothers from Bluebay, along with a few hundred acres surrounding the lake. Since the owners did not want to sell the land itself, a lease for the next 25 years was signed for a fair amount of simoleons.
Mayor Bartlett also was able to receive a massive Government aid for the dam constuction, which will be build by Seathing Power Corporation (SPC) from Bluebay.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg44.imageshack.us%2Fimg44%2F4966%2F10accessbarrage.jpg&hash=d577656713f705de5968df4bdc929c4903b82597)

The habitational project of Mr Riichirou Takahaschi to introduce modern neighborhood engineering to Access Center, was finally accepted by the federal Government and it wasn't to long when the roads and building lots appeared on the sites as Mr Takahaschi planned. The location is just north-east of the airport, covering the small hilly landscape neighboring the Ruskinlake.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg190.imageshack.us%2Fimg190%2F5674%2F11accessneighborhoods.jpg&hash=134be5fe65b2d009c1d3624221f5e16ffd5f31a9)

Unfortunetly some newly seeded farmland will also be transformed into residential lots. The farmers were greatly recompensated with more and better land southward. Riichirou, the civil engineer and responsable of this project has big plans for Access to offer a better life to new citizens to this new region of the Winding River.

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Mayor Bartlett ordered the landfill for the new garbage site. It was built near the easternly border of Access Center, far into the woods. He said that only bears and racoons will have to live with the smell of the decaying rubbish.

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Just before the ice took over in the region, the Regional Annual Amateur Soccer Tournement (RAAST) was held, and Access Junction this year was the place where the semifinals were played. The Gabberteam didn't make it for the finals though, but won the eastern cup in the semi's. Something John Gabber didn't expect and of course a party was held afterwards.

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The owner of Bake 'n Sale and Clubfoods Mr Nathaniel Wellington did not waste any time in re-building the appartment building that burnt down. A brandnew shiny building was the mainattraction for a few days in Access Center. Mr Wellington is about to open a big grocerystore in town within the next 3 months and he needed these appartments to house his new workingteam.

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«" What's with the Olsenpub", John Gabber asked Michael Allheimer when they were about to go to the pub for the weekly meeting, " It says that it is closed by the Minister of Justice, what the heck is that all about, do you know?" Mike with a smile looked at John and said:
"Don't tell me you didn't know, everybody talks about it since 3 days now. They say the old man Olsen is the main suspect for Lucy's murder because she didn't want to sell the land to him, but sold it to Barby White."
" Wow, you're kidding me, you mean we had lunch with a murderer for several months without Knowing it?"
Mike, "Yap, it seems so"
John, " So what 's happening now?"
Mike, "I have no idea, you better ask Les about this, he's the Sherrif around here."
"Oh Geeez, now there's only the canteen left" John added. »

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The latest news is that Access Center has two big private busses now. Slye and Tom Kohler, our Taxidriver, have signed a five year contract to open a busline for the workers of the sawmill between Access Center and Phlox. Young Kohler was waiting for an occasion like this eversince he moved to Access. He immediatly took a loan at the first Bank in Bluebay and bought himself two big used busses and a permit. People started to ask him about rides for the general public and even the new Mayor was interested in his idea of public transportation. Tom started dreaming.......that could be the start of something big, he said to himself.
For the moment being he rented a small partial of the parking at Lucy's Gazbar for a busstation until he will have enough finances to build himself one of his own. Now he has to find himself two drivers and he will continue with his taxi.

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Spring is almost here and the airport is now fully functional. The official opening was only a few days ago and it was the owner himself and his son, Mr Racsan and Guy, who lead the ceremony. Mr Racsan flew in with his private jet. This multi-million Simoleon project will now be ready to help the regional developpment, Mr Racsan mentioned in his speech and shall it be profitable for everyone.

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A closer picture shows another airplane landing with supplies for the population of Access Center. Racsan's jet is on the terminal. The airport was ready right on time as they promissed.

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And here is a final regional shot of Access Center, which gives us a clear view of everything.

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Finally a member of the Gabber's family died a few months ago, which I have not mentioned yet. Charlie and most of the family were left sadly for several weeks with the departure of the family dog. It was Charlie's dog, because he was born in the same year and month as him. Father John promissed him to get another puppy later in the spring, which only soothed Charlie's sadness a little bit.


Hope you enjoyed this update again, I know it took awhile but finally I am back with some time to spend on my Winding River region. Updates should now be more regular for the coming fall and winter. I will be back in a few days with a follow-up of the rest of our character's story.

Fred
;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: ecoba on October 03, 2009, 06:45:57 PM
That was a great update, Fred.

Sorry I don't comment before, Fred. I just have no idea why I wouldn't. You have a great MD going here, and I was ever so pleased when I saw you had posted in the topics. I've read some of Nexis of Genisis, and I think I might go back and read some more tonight.

Ethan
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: tahill79 on October 03, 2009, 06:47:56 PM
Great update.  I always read your MD.  My first post here though.  I love the construction for the bridge.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on October 03, 2009, 07:15:03 PM
Great update!  &apls The airport is looking sharp! Even though air canada jazz only came into play in 2003 or somthing and this is the 1960's but hey we can use our imaginations its a computer game.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on October 03, 2009, 07:39:25 PM
Looks real good! So sad about the dog...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on October 04, 2009, 02:38:13 AM
welcome back, Mr Wanderer :)

Fantastic update, as always, I love how good you are at storytelling :D

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on October 04, 2009, 05:57:39 AM
ecoba, thanks for leaving a note and welcome to the Winding River Story.
tahill79, glad you visit us, always nice to have to new "spectator".
danielcote, Yeah, I know what you mean, I wish we had better choices to plop without downloading evrything on the net. Since airport and harbour Bats are so numerous on the net, I only choose very few and the strict minimum for my regionplay, since many other custom BATs and Lots are needed and the pluginfolder volume is hereby limited. Glad that you understand though and awaken your imagination with it. ;)
Driftmaster07, well I announced the dog's death in earlier updates without mentioning that it was the dog, and I almost totally forgot about it.
JoeST, glad you stopped by.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on October 04, 2009, 06:50:54 AM
Wow, another great update!!! Fantastic again!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on October 04, 2009, 09:40:36 AM
Great Airport Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on October 25, 2009, 07:30:33 PM
This is a long update, so many things to show and to say, be prepared, it might take some time to go through this.
Sorry it took so long to make another update, I am darn busy these days.

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Almost a year and a half have past in the Valley and things have changed in many places. Access Junction is now officially called Access Center and still belonging to a big county named Lakestead. Parts of Valmore, like Valmore north and Valmore lake now belong to the Access Center municipality and therefore are taxed and taken care of by them. Grasslake has an official office also, now that they have some 400 permanent residents. Highway 15 has finally reached the Phlox County, where they already have started building the big bridge that crosses the Winding River and the rails have met the Highway 15 and are turning west into the mountains to join Lakestead's rails. A new contract to build a highway was given to some Roadconstruction company from Beecherfalls, Gabber's competition. Highway 35 it is called and it intersects with Highway 15 in the Phlox county. The intersection is about to be officially opened.
Lakestead, a bigger town west of the valley wanted a connection to highway 15 since it was the closest highway to give them easier and faster access to Beecherfalls, Frampton and Bluebay together. Since the Government sees a promissing futur in Lakestead (see Picture below) the project for highway 35 was approved.
The Winding River Valley now holds 9,900 residents, most of them living in Access Center.

Access Center still belongs to the Lakestead District, which the Mayor Steven Bartlett wants to change one day. In Lakestead, they don't like the idea to cut of a big piece of their district of eleven Counties which are in the Winding River Region. The City of Lakestead (seen below) is only about 60 kilometers west of the Winding River Region and now with the new developpings of it, the Governor of Lakestead wants to keep it.

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Some of the bigger changes can already be seen on the satelite view of the western half of the region. Such as the beginning of the Giant bridge in Phlox is quite evident on the picture, but also the new dam that is about to produce all the hydro-electricity for Access and its surroundings and the intersection of highway 15 and 35can be easily seen from this height.
Here is a picture of the western part of the Winding River Region.

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Let's go now and visit some of our areas of interest. Grasslake earned its political liberty from the Kingscroft County and is now officially achnowledged as an independant municipality. A very small townhall was constructed and a Mayor elected. Almost housing some 200 citizens on a permanent basis now, Grasslake has become the second biggest County in the Winding River Region. But because Access Center is only a short 15 minute-ride away, no commerces or industries are planned for the area yet. Houses belong mostly to the higher societies of Sims. Some retired well known people have moved here from all over the country, finding Grasslake greatly to their liking. Also other business families and Politicians have moved here or founded a cottage or weekend home.
Some of these houses cost a fortune and we will have a closer look at these in the next update. Almost a dozen of these homes were designed by the kid that designed the Gabbers Weekend home, Michael Arven.

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I had to make one picture with two images to show you the *Big Winding River Crossing Project* in one piece. Sorry for the bad quality though, not a very good photoshop. Actually there will be three bridges, interconnecting with each other to cover the large spread of the river and using the big Stoke island as a base for the middle. This bridge is the most important one on the whole highway project and it will be build with ships in mind traveling under them in the future. The bridge will connect the Phlox County with the Stoke County, which Mr A.Sterling almost owns in whole. Two big counties who lie side by side in the middle of the region. The project will last for a few years, as the Engineering architect and Project Director Alex Puto thinks. Barges are used to deliver the materials needed on the island and on the other side, but that we will see in later updates.

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A big problem arrised when they set the foundations on the westside of the river, the ground was swampy and soft. Mr Puto had decided not to take any chances on a big project like this, and drained the whole are and cast a solid piece of concrete on the bottom to hold it solidly. Of course these were unexpected expenses, but worthwhile to deliver a longlasting first class base for the long bridge.

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It was about time that the sawmill gets back into business again since logs were piling up like crazy along the highway construction sites. T.S. Slye also decided to jump deeply into new debts and have it enlarged and improved. The sawmill now hires almost 450 workers on a 3-shift day, making it possible to double-plus the production from before. Things are going well, although a lot of debts are implicated for the next 10 years or so, but Slye couldn't resist to take the chance and make it worthwhile.
«« "You know John, it is thanks to you where I am today" Slye said to John Gabber when he came to visit his new installations for the first time, " I probably would have just rebuild what I had in Access instead of looking up ahead into the future as you alwqays tell me. I can pay my debts now without worrying about how to pay my fellow workers at the end of each week. Of course I am not making a fortune at this moment, but I have an idea that this may change in time."
John smiled and replied, " And I now know and understand why you wanted to move to Phlox so much and quickly,good thinking there, You're a real fox and they don't call you Slye for nothing. The rails are just perfect for getting your lumber out of the region and I suppose you will be able to ship them through the waters of the Mighty River also, aren't these your plans?"....
"You read me right John," Slye answered, "I guess it wasn't too hard to figure that out. As soon as I heard that the rails were planned to go right by this lot and spot, I had that idea and bought the land, remember, I asked you for the loan. I am glad you accepted my offer, otherwise I would still be in Access with my 150 workers and trying to figure out how to widen my business. I will talk to the "Railmen" soon and see what can be done."»»

Laying the rails right into his sawmill will not be a big problem and Slye has it planned to do so in the next year, if the railowners agree. Also we see a lot of construction still going on the sawmill site, new buildings and storages are still to be constructed. Logging is the future in this region and this is what TS deeply believes in.

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Slye had a home for him built nearby and an office which he can go to on foot every morning. He has even built a large Cantina for his workers, where they can eat and rest during their breaks in all comfort because he believes in well treated workers delivering better quality and quantity labour.
Most of the workers come here from Access and Valmore by bus with the Kohler public transportation. A service which is co-operativley financed with the help of the sawmill, the workers, the town of Access and Valmore and the Government.

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The sawmill is divided into three sections, which Slye has organized so. The construction lumber, which is the biggest part and which transform the softwood or needle bearing trees, then the hardwood lumber used for furniture, flooring etc and finally the specialty lumber, where rare species of wood are transformed into wood for artistic and other uses, as for musical instruments, high quality furniture and many other uses. On the waterside a future dock is planned, but for right now the finances telling TS to slow down.

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On the other side of the river, in the Stoke county, the construction of the highway continues without delay, not bothering with the bridge's construction at all. All the materials are shipped by barges over the river, more barges will arrive in a week or so from Beecherfalls. Once they arrive we will have a closer look at them too.

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Once every day the responsables and three most important people working on this project meet somewhere on the constructionsite to organize their day. Alex Puto, the bridges project director and engineering architect, Andy Dubold, the chief of the logging team and  Mike Allheimer, the Project Manager and right hand of John Gabber.  
«« "The Government is pushing us too hard I think," Mike told them in a short daily meeting, " I will talk to John to get them slowed down a bit, because the highwaymen are right behind the loggers and impossible for the loggers to go faster."
"There's a small possibility though to help the situation," Andy, the loggers foreman added, " If I can get a few dozens or more of loggers and some more machinery, there's a chance that we can advance a little faster. Maybe talking to Slye will help, he often has some genius ideas. I'll talk to TS and John about this tomorrow morning, Where's John anyways, haven't seen him here for some weeks?"
Alex, "I heard he is so darn busy that he doesn't even see his family anymore, but I have no idea what exactly he does."
Mike, " John is trying to find more specialized workers and responsable foremen for the project, he says we need many more specialists who know what they're doing. No problem to find workers though, they move in by the dozens to Access every week. I think he's in Frampton today"»»

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Another picture of the highway construction site in Stoke county.

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Back in Phlox a new highway project was ordered by the Government. It was decided to make a highway shortcut from Lakestead intersecting with Highway 15 in the Phlox county. This will shorten the trajectory of Highway 33 to meet Beecherfalls and Frampton from Lakestead. Attaching a new highway (35) to Highway 15 leading to Lakestead will also give easy access to Bluebay while shorten the traveltime by half to Frampton. The project was given into the hands of another highway construction Company from outside the region, something that the Gabber Corporation is very frustrated about. The new Company did not start the construction of Highway 35 yet, although everthing was prepared by the Gabber Corp to continue, more than two months ago. But the rails are continuing to build right into the next region, they never stop, creeping forward like a snake seeking for cover.

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Another swamp, nearby the intersection, was discovered by the surveyors intrigues the architects and they want it to be totally drained by next spring. I guess the sixties weren't the best place/time for conservatists, and places like this are seen more of a threat to them and considered as useless terrains than a natural habitat. Several swamps like this have already been drained on the way down the valley and many more to come. I wonder what they will do when they reach the immense marshlands in the eastern half of the Winding River Region??

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The last time when John flew over the area a couple of weeks ago together with Mike to see the developpments of the intersection, they saw a few moose in that particular swamp and the idea to come back later this fall and do some Moosehunting came to their minds.
«« "I haven't been moosehunting since Charlie was born," John explained to Mike during the short flight, " and that was almost 14 years ago in 1950, I think. Maybe Charlie will love to come also, I haven't been going fishing with him almost in a year now."
Mike couldn't help to add, "Hunting moose was never in my plans, but now that you mention it and we just saw two nice moose down there, I will consider it and am willing to try that also."
" That's agreed then, in September we go all moose hunting" John confirmed and that place below looks promissing enough.»»

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A little further back towards Access, the bridge in Valmore North was finally finished and is opened for regular traffic. The wooden temporary bridge was torn down, which became a little dangerous to cross with heavier loads.
The two workers that were reported as missing in this area are still a mystery for everyone, including the responsables of the investigation. The federals still investigate on this.

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Some residentials have already arrived in Valmore North, creating a tiny village near the bridge and....

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....even a busstop was opened awhile ago, for the sawmill workers to have easier and quicker access to Phlox.

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We all remember the lost pilot, Mr Robert Sweaters. After his release from the hospital last year, Mr Sweathers was granted with a few hundred acres of land to use as he wishes. He absolutely wanted to come back to his place that he had completely renovated and modernized by now and that the public road is only a few yards away. He even has electricity. He also started cultivating an immense garden with his daughter he hasn't seen ever since he crashed on the side of the region and constructed a small little store to sell his own products by the road.
Just the idea to come and see this fellow that has survived so many years alone and on his own in the forests, draws a lot of tourists and curious folks to these parts and Mr Sweather's fruit and vegetable business is going quite well. Mr Wellington from Access Center and the owner of the Bake n'sale has been seen here a few times buying some of Sweather's fruits and veggies.

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Farming was and still is largely encouraged by the Government with easy grants and low interest agricultural loans and now some farms can already be seen popping up in the Valmore North area. Mostly familyfarms of smaller sizes have made it in the region sofar, but one day, bigger corperated farms will install themselves in the Winding River Region, I am sure.

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In Valmore south, now officially belonging to the administration and municipality of Access Center, we see more and slightly bigger farms and where the deforestation is still a part of the daily life of the farmers. More fields are needed and precious forest giving away their existance for the civilization.

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This below view of Valmore South gives us a good idea how things are developping in the area. Farms and residentials have been reaching without organization right into the landscape lately. It is true that Highway 15 gave life to the region. Just like Grasslake residentials will one day invade the borders of the lake. The northern part of the lake though (right corner of the picture) is a little marshy and swampy, maybe too expensive to drain for the moment being.

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Since Access Center does not really have direct access to any beach, it was welcomed that Valmore South joined the municipality, and it wasn't too long after that the counsel opened a public beach on the southend of the lake. Also a tall touristic watchtower was built to give the visitors a full view of the whole lake and wild forests surrounding it.

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Every month or so it seems that dozens or more homes are build in the Valmore part of Access. People seem to like the green farmlands and forests nearby. Some roads are still gravel roads, but the administration has already decided that several roads will be asphalted during this summer, which will be a little hard on the municipality's budget. But then Mayor Bartlett mentions in his monthly speeches that "nothing is too good" for his fellow citizens. A good attitude to make more friendly voters for the next election, I suppose.

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This is the part of the lake that is a little too swampy to build on, as I told you above, but already some roads have been constructed on drier spots. Nature is as its rawest levels and it is here, that someone saw a big animal in the waters some 4 or 5 years ago. Nothing has been heard of or seen of it lately. Some even say that a monster like this probably swallowed the two workers in Valmore North since this lake is connected with the Chimelake and then with the deep river to the bridge. But......well....these are just rumours, like so many things in this area.

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Ever wanted to watch birds, fish and reptiles? This is probably the best place. The citizens built an observation point on one of the gravel banks in the middle of the swamp to observe migrating birds, such as the geese. Only a few people have been here, most of them are too afraid to travel this far into the lake without knowing what it surrounds or even holds. Generally the lake is not very deep, but one spot has been reported to be deeper than 80 feet and the swamp could be an ideal hide-away for alligatorlike creatures, which have been reported many years ago by some fishermen who dared to travel up the Winding river for a peak of this wilderness. Hm... interesting....crocos!?

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Now let's get to the main section of the region, the one we know about most. Access Center, now so called by the citizens, has grown into a nice town holding the bigger part of the regionpopulation. Several thousands strong, it has changed its needs, which some have been fulfilled and others are still on the list to work on. I identified only the most important places, because there too many new stores and others. We will get to the details sometimes later.

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The Garbage problem that Access Center had before with the former Mayor has been solved with this Garbage Disposal site. Mayor Bartlett thinks that this will be good for many years to come and beyond his mayoringtime. A young fellow in the name of Adrian McCoy, who visits the town's meetings everytime is not of the same opinion and spreading the words that the area won't even hold out 5 years and the same problem will be back, this time attached with a packsack. Mayor Bartlett mentioned that the forest is big, much bigger than the young man thinks and told him not to worry.

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In the same townmeeting it was mentioned to enlarge the industrial park right into the farmfields. The farmers would be expropiated though , but new land will be offered to them further away with of course larger capacities. The farmers are against it , saying clearing the land was a lot of land and they didn't do it for the fun, but the counsel of the municipality decided to go ahead with the project and devided the expansion of the industrial into two parts. One third will be zoned this year and the rest in about two years. Farmers will be recompensated for their labour spent on the land, it was decided.

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Lucy's Gaz is now called "Bus n' Gaz" and it was purchased by no other than Tom Kohler who now has a total of four busses running for his Company. He also bought the small land behind the gastation to built a garage to hold his busses. It will become a bus and gazstation this summer. Tom invests a few thousand Simoleons into this project believing that Access will need more and more public transportation while it grows and especially after he was approached by the town to open a public busline through the town of Access itself and from town to Bluebay, the nearest city about 90 minutes away. In the next townmeeting he will be asked to show a plan and make an offer. Tom is still driving his Taxi though, loving his job being in contact with all the people he now knows so well. Here too he needs to expand soon.

pic30
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Mr Racsan's son, Guy Racsan, has built some manufacturing buildings (hangars) near the airport and will start to produce racecar motors and transmissions. This will give a little employment boost to the town again and creating fulltime jobs for about 50 people. The project has already started and the Manufacture will start producing in early fall. His father approved his first independence fully, although he still offers Guy to become his successor one day. All Guy wants to prove to himself right now is simply to start a fully functional independant business that will be able sustain his existance. For the rest, he will think about it, he said.

pic31
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The airport is for sale. Mr Racsan, the partial owner together with the town of Access, has asked for an offer from the town to sell his part of the airport, but he also will consider a private buyer, if the town is not interested. Mr Racsan wants to slowly retire now approaching his 60 years and some smaller parts of his business empire is being sold. Let's not forget, Mr Racsan is still one of the five richests and powerful men on the eastside of the simregion and has no need to work 10 hrs a day anymore. Besides his secret project in Grasslake is keeping him more than busy.
Since a few weeks the airport has become very busy with daily and sometimes even hourly flights, but most of them are cargo-oriented flights from the bigger cities to bring in parts for the new Hydrodam, powerlines and waterpumping station. Many mechanical and electric parts have been and still will be needed to complete the total functioning of the Hydrodam and Pumps.
The bigger planes, like the one shown below bringing in some smaller but important equipments for the dam valve systems and pressure controllers, have problems with the runway, which is a little too short to the pilot's taste. Mayor Bartlett wants to increase the landing strip length, but finances for 1963 are already over their limits. Mr Racsan does not want to invest more at the time, because he wants to sell, but recommends to wait another year or so for the municipality also, because most of the flights with bigger planes are almost finished anyways.

pic32
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A small program was started at the electiontime of Mayor Bartlett and as he promissed that he will clean up the western part of the town, it finally started to show after a year and a half. The program was to hire kids afterschool, offering them free chocolate or milk in school for cleaning up the neighborhoods. Now that most of the garbage and ruins left behind are gone, some lawn, flowergardens and maybe a small park or two will soon appear in this part of town. A baseball terrain was suggested by many citizens. Of course, the mayor already thinks about the rise of the taxes once it has become much more beautiful.

pic33
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Well, they finally are doing it, closing the waterspring for ever later this spring. The new drinking waterpumps at the newly built Hydrodam will be producing better and way beyond the needs of the municipality. All they still have to do is digging in the mainpipe from the dam to the town. After, this cabbage smelling waterhole will be drained it will be filled with gravel and build over to create useful buildinglots. No more secret peeing into the drinking waterhole by the kids at night and no more cabbage tasting water. The watertower will be torn down too.

pic34
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Here is a look of the extension of the commercial zone of the town. On the left side of the church, which we unfortunately is not shown in this update, is the Bake n' Sale store of Mr Wellington. He also just bought another store on the highway's side and opened his first Clubfoods store there, something he wants to be expanded into every neighboring town giving hard and solid competition to the bigger food outlets just like the one in the new shopping mall behind Barby's Lounge and Bar. Nethaniel is now offering a cup of hot chocolate or coffee along with a chocolate Biscotti for 15 simcents only. A great hit I must say, since his parking has become too small to hold all the vehicules of the customers. We can see his publicity in the Access Tribune near the beginning of this update.
In the picture are shown some newly arrived small businesses or offices, such as the Law and Notary office building on the topleft of the picture below, or the governmental offices of Unemployment, welfare and immigration. Then beside them was built a small swimmingpool for the public to enjoy during the summer, something that the kids surely love to explore this summer and the new funeral homes. Where life roams death will stalk, they say and Access Center is now big enough to make a living with the dead. And many more other small businesses can be found on the same street.

pic35
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Also new, but built in early fall last year is the Lounge and Bar of Ms Barby White from Frampton. She finally was able to transfer her business to Access Center and it is since 6 months that it is fully operational. Even the Gabber Corporation Gang has returned for the weekly friday afternoon meeting. But not only this, visitors to this area have been eating and drinking in this beautiful Restobar all during the winter. Ms White is planning to finish the snmall backyard into a flowering garden with bistrotables for those who like the freshair diner during summer. She also announced officially, that a big Motel will see the daylight in the next year somewhere nearby, again investing a few simoleons.
The Olsen pub is still open and doing well, although the owner was judged guilty with the murder of Ms Lucy and sentenced to life in the Frampton Highsecurity prison. The murdercase was solved during last summer and to give us a quick idea of what happened is the first version that Mr Olsen was trying to convince Lucy to sell the place to him, because he knew way before everyone else that the place was up for sale one day, but Lucy refused, because she wanted her friend Ms White to have the place and so it was sold to her. Olsen didn't like the way he was just put aside and while he tried to give her a lesson, he more or less accidently killed her, as he says, but not as the judge judged him. Being surprised by a bywalker he disappeared quickly into the dark taht night, only to come back and do as if he just found the body. He called the police. The second version of the story is that he simply revenged himself, murdered her and did not have the time or chance to get rid of the body. To make a story short, he was filed as a first degree murderer and proved and judged so and it is his daughter who runs the Olsen Pub with her husband now. One case closed.

pic36
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Where once the Sawmill stood, is today a big shopping center, a Co-Op, a Bank and a Motel. A group of several business people from Sandom, the smaller town east of this region, have put themselves together in constructing the Shopping Mall. Still others are yet to come like  Riichirou Takahaschi, the man that made the Access Center residential neighborhood possible. He and his sister want to open their own little Urban Landscape Engineering Office here in Access, a branch of the Major Transcontinental construction firm from Frampton and the office started by buying a small lot in the commercial district. Riichirou is from Frampton and now moving to Access with one of his sisters. His other sister is working in Japan, their homeland.
The 4 lots (in green) behind Barby's Lounge belong to her and will be transformed into a Garden Resto/bar of some kind, as we have talked about earlier.
With help from John Gabber and Mike Allheimer, the young architect student Michael Arven started studying again and went back to Bluebay after he designed some houses on the Grasslake. Already well known by the residents of Grasslake and Access, Michael has been asked to design several more private homes of some retired families that are coming to the lake next year. Quite challenging to him, this will also give him a headstart for his future line of work and reputation. The famous architectural and design Company "Benson Homes" have him already under careful observation through his studies and maybe be hiring him in a couple of years or so.
Benson Homes is coming to Access also, hoping to be the first to take the market of private dwellings in the area. Maybe a good start for Young Arven.

pic37
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It was late, just before midnight when John Gabber came home after a hard day in Frampton to find some new responsables for leading the highway project. His wife waited for him greeting him at the door. Little Charlie, now not so little anymore and 12 years old by now, was at the door of his room, still awake.  
«« "Dad?" he said in a low voice, "Can I talk to you for a minute please?"
His mother told him to close the door and go to bed, but he wouldn't listen, then she turned to John and said, " Oh Geeez, he has been bugging me all day to go on a camping trip this weekend with three of his buddies near the Access Pond, you know where they built the dam."
John couldn't resist, smiled and said, " Come down Charlie and go to the living room, we'll talk there in a minute."»»

After John washed up and prepared his latenight drink he sat down beside his youngest son and started questions about who, where, how and how long that camping trip was to be. Charlie explained, all exited that father was actually listen to him after so many weeks having hardly seeing him, everything in clear details and also mentioned that he was about to become 13 and is a young man soon and be able to go away from home for a day or two. The three other fellows were a little older than him and hearing about Diarmuid coming along, father accepted the demand with a few conditions. It was 1 AM when Charlie got the green light and he jumped up with a scream of joy that almost woke up everyone else. But now it was time to go to bed.
First thing in the morning, Charlie called up his friend Diarmuid and told him about the good news. Diar enjoyed the news also and said that this trip will be fun a ton. He said to Charlie to bring his canoe.

The Access Pond is where the hydrodam and waterpumpstation was lately built. Not quite finished and still under some construction, the dam will supply the whole area with electricity. This project was financed by several organizations, such as the Racsan and Gabber Corporations, plus the Governor's Office in Lakestead and the government itself. Only a small amount was supplied by the municipality of Access, but who will be taking care of both stations in the future. Some powerlines have already reached the town and is already working to produce electricity for several parts of the residential areas, more is to come later this spring.

pic38
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The dam was still under construction and some installations for tourists and bywatchers were already constructed as we can see below on the picture. The lake is mostly rockbased on this side of it and it was hard to dig out a decent location to build the actual dam and waterways.

pic 39
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And here is a look at the whole installation with the surrounding area.

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And here below is a last picture of what is yet to come. The federal simnation has decided lately to create a National wildlife Refuge in the Winding River region, where wildlife and best conditions for the reproduction of many mammal, bird and insect species are available. The area includes the Stoke mountains in whole and the Gamook marsh lands, a total of several thousand acres. Besides some rails and maybe a highway and/or route no other zoning and construction will be allowed. This Parkland might open its doors to the general public in the future one day.

pic41
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Hope you liked this update again, and again sorry for being a little slow on things, but RL is keeping me busier this year as it never has been before. I only hope that I will soon have more time to bring you better and more often the stories of the Winding River Region.
I'll be back soon, maybe with a shorter update though.... ;)

Fred



Still looking for more storycharacters from members.....

Character Partners:

danielcote = Nethaniel Joseph Wellington
just_a_guy = Riichirou Takahaschi
BarbyW = Ms Barbara White
The Tea Cat = Diarmuid MacGormain
Nascar_Guy = Guy Racsan
mightygoose = Michael Arven
RustyXL = Tom Kohler
Threestooges = TS Slye
Driftmaster07 = Alex Puto
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on October 26, 2009, 09:48:46 AM
Wow what a great update! I never thought you'd put a mall there I thought it would just be more stores. Great job on custom content too!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rooker1 on October 27, 2009, 08:03:38 AM
I have always loved the fact that you can jam so many details in. 
The Dam looks awesome, very believable and realistic.   &apls

Robin  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on October 27, 2009, 08:50:51 AM
Awesome update, really fantastic work!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on October 27, 2009, 10:03:05 AM
Wow!!! A HUGE update! A total of 41 pics! In fact, 41 is the size of the font on the word huge. Anyways, good job on it and glad to see you back! :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on October 27, 2009, 02:15:33 PM
Hey long time no see! Just want to tell you that i like the nature you have done  &apls &apls. The death one and even the green one. Very well done and a lot of work too that you did. keep it up :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on October 27, 2009, 02:47:23 PM
That was an incredible update!  I love your incremental growth of this region, and all the time and care you're putting in to keeping the details consistent as you move through each update!  The story in very interesting as well, looking forward to seeing more as always!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: tr0ub1es0me on November 01, 2009, 05:33:04 PM
Loving your work here. Great amount of detail in all pics from that last update (and there sure is a lot of them!). I'm envious of the care you put into attention to detail, and I love seeing all the visual planning and construction work happening in the screenshots!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Bobbi on November 01, 2009, 08:47:39 PM
There're 41 pictures in this update, it's huge!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on November 02, 2009, 12:11:40 AM
Another Update Fred , i always enjoy reading your details :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: just_a_guy on November 02, 2009, 01:46:00 PM
It's been a while since I've looked back here and what a suprise I find! Welcome back! You're MD is always a relaxing read :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 02, 2009, 06:56:46 PM
Hey lotsa thanks to all who commented, nice to hear you enjoying it. I will be back in a few days with another update, much smaller this time.....lol ;)

Sorry for being late, but RL is roughening my life a bit at the moment.

Always nice to read your comments.
Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on November 03, 2009, 10:34:20 PM
Thats good news. A new update! ;D RL can be a pain, can't it?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 04, 2009, 06:17:59 PM
Quote from: Driftmaster07 on November 03, 2009, 10:34:20 PM
Thats good news. A new update! ;D RL can be a pain, can't it?

u bet! ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on November 04, 2009, 06:50:44 PM
A (very) big pain. :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on November 06, 2009, 08:52:07 AM
Great Job Bison, but why is there an A380 during the mid 60s?


Oh and What area is the region Located?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 06, 2009, 09:35:31 AM
Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on November 06, 2009, 08:52:07 AM
Great Job Bison, but why is there an A380 during the mid 60s?
Oh and What area is the region Located?


Sorry about the A380, but you have to imagine the rest, the thing is that I have a pluginfolder of 12 Gb and I use what I have. If I start downloading all kinds of things on top of that, I am afraid that the game will slow down a lot, since I am quite at the limit that my computer can handle. Besides I haven't seen any airplanes from the 50's or 60's anywhere. If you know where, please tell me so, maybe I could do something about it.

So you won't forget where the region is located, I included an updated Map of all the regions that I am using for this MD/CJ (framed). There are 9 SC4 regions in my pluginfolder sofar that are shown here on the complete map. The area (map) is called "Ganoga" (everything on the map) and the Nation is "Simland" (and beyond).

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi19.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fb178%2Fmrbisonm%2F5MapGanogaWRWNewHighway2.png&hash=5d90079913bac9868c1e518955fa9089502a42be)


I will be posting an update as promissed this weekend.
Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on November 06, 2009, 04:20:21 PM
Nice map! I think you should have a passenger station in access.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on November 06, 2009, 04:28:15 PM
Hmm. Your right. That would be good. But then the tracks would be flooded with passenger cars instead of the much needed freight cars for construction and such.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 06, 2009, 07:07:10 PM
The railstation will come one day. For now the rails are still a few kilometers (miles) from there and going west and not south to Access. Who knows what will happen with the rails, now they're in the region and soon connected to Lakestead.

;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: ecoba on November 06, 2009, 07:18:00 PM
Oooh, nice map, Fred.

That's all I have to say at the moment.

Ethan
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on November 07, 2009, 12:05:25 AM
Nice map, great work my friend!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Bobbi on November 07, 2009, 12:08:24 AM
Nice map! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 08, 2009, 08:26:30 PM
I will be a day or two late for the next update. It was supposed to be small, but it ended up with another 20 pictures.......We will take a full and close look at Access Center with every detail, including the airport and the newly constructed hydrodam.
Below is a small teaser. This is a part of the closeup look of the hydrodam.
See you then...

Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg682.imageshack.us%2Fimg682%2F3888%2Flakesteadcountydrain.jpg&hash=44f6e75b498871ec82aeead0871494b571376081)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: ecoba on November 09, 2009, 05:09:07 AM
Well, that's a mighty good teaser, Fred!

You really have the usage of paintbrush flora down to an art. And, I've never seen you do a dam before, but I think it will be pretty great.

Next post takes us to the Classics!

Ethan
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on November 09, 2009, 08:50:14 AM
Nice little teaser!  I'm liking the details around that culvert!  Looking forward to seeing the full update!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on November 09, 2009, 11:23:55 AM
QuoteBesides I haven't seen any airplanes from the 50's or 60's anywhere. If you know where, please tell me so, maybe I could do something about it.

I'm sure that CRJ can pass off as a DC-9 :P. plus the default medium rang aircraft, is a Lockhed Constellation from the late 50s

QuoteThe area (map) is called "Ganoga" (everything on the map) and the Nation is "Simland" (and beyond).

And where on the earth is Ganoga?


QuoteI will be posting an update as promissed this weekend.
Fred

:thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on November 09, 2009, 01:04:01 PM
Looking great already!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lynncanox on November 09, 2009, 06:50:35 PM
Don't panic, %confuso  I used my wife's name (lynncanox) to post this update, because I have problems with my name  >:( to post something at the moment........It's still me, mrbisonm/Fred.



First thanks to those who have lurked and those who left a comment. ;)

NASCAR_Guy , where can I find this CRJ you mention, do you have a linkie?
Ganoga is the marshland that dominates the eastern Winding River Region and it is somewhere in Simland, just fictious. But....there's a real place that is called Ganogalake in Pennsylvania (USA), an excellent fishing ground btw. (nothing to do with my Ganoga)
See the large region picture in the first link below to find Ganoga on the right (east)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sorry for being late, but the weekend was a little active with my family. We had some nice weather (Indian Summer we call it here in Canada) and we had a last BBQ outside before winter with my sons and friends.

May29th,1963

We haven't seen the whole region for awhile so, I uploaded the latest updated version of it to the link below. Best to be seen with a program like Irfanview to see the fullsized image. This image is 4000x1800 large and in png. Many details are shown here.

regionpicture
http://www4.zippyshare.com/v/98535451/file.html


In this update, just a little smaller than the last one, we will concentrate ouselves to Access Center only. First to see all the details of the town itself and then the surroundings, the farms, the dam and the airport. This is to get a good knowledge of this town, since the next two updates I will show more of Valmore, Phlox and Sterling, plus we will go back to Grasslake a little while.

We now have two independant official municipalities in the Winding River region, Access and Grasslake, which only lately got their townhall and Mayor (so to say). Most of the other counties are still under the managements of the greater townships they're in.

Access Junction once called is now Access Center as we now know it, and it has reached its 10,000+ inhabitants already. The town has outgrown many parts and services lately and the discussions during the counel meetings are quite intense on these several subjects during the last meetings. Here are some comments that can be heard by citizens of Access:

«««
Mr Paulis:- It is ridiculous how this town of 10K only has 2 firemen and 4 cops (police).
Mrs Mayer:- The townhall can't even hold 2 percent of the population during the monthly meetings, how do we know what goes on in there if we're piled up one on top of another?.
Mrs Dustin:- More than half of the town lives with dust, we can't even open our windows anymore, because most of the residential streets are gravelroads. How is that still possible in 1963?
Mr Danger:- Crossing the highway to get to the east part of the town has become a life endangering and threatening risk.
Mrs Kidpiler:- We have kids sitting on top of others just to get them into a classroom at the elementary school.
Mrs Alsick:- When the Doctor is out fishing, who takes care of the emergencies? A more steady health clinic is needed, more doctors, if possible one or two who don't go fishing or golfing.
Mr Skule:- Highschool kids still have to go to the next town and drive 40 minutes every day twice. Can't we build a Highschool in Access?.
Mr Alkolic:- Restaurants and restaurants all over the place and no place to take a beer quietly. Has Access never heard of Bars and Taverns?
Mr Wanstono:- I have been wrestling for the last three months with other people to get just one copy of the local newspaper, we need a bigger Press.
Mr Gulff- The mayor doesn't play golf and it shows, no golfcourse in Access, I have to travel for almost an hour to play golf.»»»»

...and so on, only to mention a few. But then on the other hand, quite a few good things happend to Access. Electricity is now more than plentiful now and the water is not cabbage smelling anymore, but clear,cold and fresh. Access has its first local town to town public bus-service. And the unemployment in Access is almost zero, not counting Mr and Mrs Lasipum If you live in Access and don't have a job, it is simply because you don't want to work. They're even planning to extend the industrial park.

To make a story short, Access is like most of the towns we know, it can't satify everyone living there. Organizing a town is serious business and most of it has to be balanced out to offer the best services with the finances available.
The first picture is to get a good look of the downtown area of Access with its highway 35 going right through the town. Right there we can see that the town has grown a lot since the last time we came to visit it. Now with the shopping center as the new main attraction, the commercial center of the town is spreading into the residencial areas.

pic1
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Here is a closer look of the mainstreet with its church as the center. People now this part the "Old Downtown" ever since the shopping mall arrived.

pic2
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In my last update I mentioned that they were planning a new industrial park, well already the access roads were build, now the comitee is giving the farmers the chance to harvest their last crops on these lands, before the bulldozers move in and flatten it out for the constructions of the new industries.

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Where once the drinking water came from has now changed into a small park for relaxation. Although several demands were to fill it up and build new houses on top, the majority of the counsel voted for a park. The watertower was torn down and the pumping house destroyed. In the future there will be some paths that will surround the pond.

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It was on May 15th, when Miss Barby White officially opened her Restaurant and exterior Weingarten. This is the first chic Restaurant in Access Center. The Olsen pub which is just across the street is still running smoothly ever since Olsen's daughter took over.As we know Mr Olsen is in prison for many years to come. Besides Miss White doesn't mind the competition since she is planning to open another hotel nearby the lake of Valmore by next year. Another service for the tourists who increase their visits to the Winding River region every year.

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The owner of the Access Tribune is planning to increase his supply of newspaper by moving soon to another location with a bigger building for more working space and with better and bigger printing presses. He and his crew of 4 can only supply so much at the moment with the space available and it is true that getting a copy is a chance that not everyone gets every week.
Also the townhall just behind the Access Tribune is getting too small, no doubt. Built only seven years ago, it will be torn down next year to give place for a bigger building. Some of the neighbor houses were bought to satisfy the area it will need.

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Tom Kohler finally did it. He bought Lucy's Gasstation, completely renovated it and build a small addition as a busstation where the workers of the sawmill will meet to get a ride to their work and back home every morning and night. The busses also stop in Valmore south to pick up workers from there. In the back of the gasstation, Kohler built a Garage for the maintenance of the busses. He still has his taxi though as we can see it parked nearby. Now Tom owns 6 busses and has extended one bus now for the public transport to exterior places down to Sandom. Probably before fall he will add two more busses, one more for the sawmill run and another one for the external run, maybe to the north to Frampton. The hangar in the back of his Garage belongs to Sterling Industries of which right now I don't know much about. It was built about the same time as the busgarage.

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Much welcomed by the Residents of oakstreet, another road is built to exit faster from the residential area of the east part of the town to the highway. Less welcomed was the construction of the big warehouse that belongs to the Sterling Industries from Frampton.

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Since last fall appartmentblocks have made it to Access Center and more and more are build. This below is the west part of town, the part that leads to the Plateau area of Access High, which we will soon be visiting in another update. A little older than the southpart of Access, the Mayor thinks of upgrading this area to a higher stage. Here the streets are of asphalt, which is not the case elsewhere in Access. Also, two well known people of our story live somewhere here, Alex Puto, our Engineer of Highway 35 and Tom Kohler, the Busman. I don't have their addresses yet but when I will find out, I'll let you know.

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The residential part of the southwest finally got their playground, a baseball field long awaited for. Here live Mayor Steven Bartlett, the Bake n'Sale owner Nethaniel Wellington and the parents of Riichirou Takahaschi, the civil engineer who designed this part of town also,his first official contract in Access btw. Some streets are still on gravel, which hopefully will change as the Mayor promisses to make radical and positive changes in this part in the next year.

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Btw.....while we're in the middle of our little story. Did anyone remark or realize that there is a giant reptile in one of the pictures of my last update? No one has yet commented about, how come? Need glasses? ;) lol

Ok, back to the story. As we know, Access is building houses faster than roads and streets and in this extreme south of the town, close to the airport and the Hydrodam, it is quite evident. Houses are "born" almost every 3 to 5 days and with all the heavy truck and construction traffic and sandyroads, the dust rises into the air. On still days with no wind, the dust stays in the neighborhood and people start to find it very irregating to breathe this sandy and dusty air. Some say that they cannot even see their neighbor in the late afternoon anymore wondering what the neighbors are up to, while others told that the sand gets even into their meals all the time, a good source of calcium though. This has to stop, no doubt. Calcium pills are now available in the drugstore, they say.

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««"The first serious accident in Access Center was a total disaster in my opinion" announced Mayor Bartlett in his counsel meeting the next day," this is the first and last time that something like this happens in my town. Where were the police and the firemen? It took them more than half an hour to be be informed and get here. Maybe the next time it will be much worse. Glad that no one was killed or seriously hurt, but let's take this as a serious warning that things need to be taken care of in Access and let's make some changes on that part of the street that has become an out of control public danger. Also let's get a new firestation with a 24 hr Emergency crew by the end of the year and not only firemen that are always gone fishing catfish. I don't care what it will cost us, even if we have to increase the taxes a little bit. That really scared the hell out of me this time!!" »»
Bartlett couldn't be more serious than this because he was part of the accident, gotten hit by one of the fueltrucks.
Six vehicules were involved in this accident where a trafficlight should absolutely be installed as soon as possible. Only two people were more or less hurt and treated by the local health clinic, but just imagine if one or both of the tankertrucks carrying high flammable fuel would have exploded in that crash,......oh my..... surely a big junk of the neighborhood including the shopping Center would have moved out of town. The news of this accident spred as far with the regional news as Frampton, Bluebay and Beecher Falls.

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The whole area behind and beside the shopping mall is a little stuck with too much traffic and has to be either organized better or totally redesigned. It is time to put this in the hands of a well known Civil engineer of Access, Mr Riichirou Takahaschi, Mayor Bartlett suggested.
It is here that the first public busstation made its appearance. Owned partially by the municipality and Tom Kohler from the newly founded Kohler Buslines, this is surely not the last of the public transportation system that the town and Kohler want to improve. This first busstop that offers a connection with the town of Sandom and Access was very much appreciated by the westside population.

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This is the new commercial center of Access Center as we have seen it in my last update on the prevoius page. Ever since the Slye sawmill moved out and the shopping mall was built, commerces have either be started here or moved here from other towns outside the Winding River Region. The first Bank in Access is owned by the big finance coporation of Frampton, which Mr Sterling owns. just like Sterling Industries. Mr Rundi Sterling, a Native (aboriginal) from these regions, bought almost half of the Phlox county last year, including the Stoke mountainchain, buying back what once belonged to his ancestors, as he says.
Two Motels now offer different quality stays in Access for newcomers or visitors. One with and one without fleas. An Italian cook from Sandom couldn't resist to take the opportunity to open a Pizzeria here and a business woman from Lakestead had built herself her second Hotel and a first in Access. Then an older fellow from Access wanted to spend his retirement by selling Glassware, everything from cooking ware to mirrors. Need something out of glass, come see Willy.

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Then old downtown, as some call it now, has received a Dentistgroup from a town far away. Having heard about the new and heavy growth of Access, three dentists moved to Access to live their future plans and to be the first in the region. The dental care office was very welcomed by the population, no needed to travel to Sandom before to handle the serious and not so serious toothpains.
Also in this specific area of the town is the elementary school that has become totally overcrowded, with kids of course. The National Minister of Education has planned to build a bigger and better school somewhere else in the town and they are looking for an ideal spot at this very moment. With many complaints of a missing Highschool, the Ministry is also making plans to build a whole schooling complex, now that the town has more than 10-thousand habitants and probably more than 12-thousand by the end of the year.
Bake n' Sale, owned by Nethaniel Wellington is in discussion with the Counsel to find a suitable place to build a bigger store in Access. Clubfoods wants to expand and take control of the town before someone else does. Mr Wellington has another plan that some are mumbeling about, but nothing is yet confirmed. Is he into the Real Estate also? His red Appartment block has almost become a landmark in Access since it was built on the same spot where his older appartment burnt down during renovation. It is photographed by the tourists and known as the "red appartmentbox".

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Now let's travel a few miles to the south right into the hills and visit the newly finished Hydrodam of the Lakestead Hydro Company. This is an overall view of the area, showing the salmonrun creek, the waterpump and the hydrodam that supplies the power to the whole region. Open to the public, these installations are unique to the region, the first and the only underground salmon ladder in the whole country. Visitors can see how the drinking waters for Access Center and Valmore are being pumped and filtered, they can visit the turbines that produce the electricity and see the salmons underground in an Aquarium like tunnel and above ground in a little creek that was created not only for the interested and curious, but also for science and biological benefits.

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The new watersystem of Access is the most advanced one in the country now. For the first time in Simland's history, the idea to filter water through a giant fiberfilter before offering it to the public, was imported from Europe. The pumps are pumping the water through the filtering station and through several fiberfilters layered side by side and then is redirected into the mainpipeline that leads down to the town a few kilometers away. The water is clean, pure and of the highest quality. This is the best technology the 60'has to offer.

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The northsalmon has been spawning in this pond or lake ever since they exist. Building the dam has the spawningrun cut off. It was then decided by the National Park Service and Ministry of Natural Ressources that a salmonrun ladder was to be implanted for the fish to be able to continue their run to their favourite spawning site a little higher on the pond. The ladder was built underground, artifically lit, and sometimes in extreme large Glasspipes visible to the public in undreground tunnels into the above ground pool seen partially on the right side in the picture below, then they take the creek that leads back into the pond a little further up. The creek is under the skylights and you can visit and see the salmons going upstream. The whole was made in a park, where visitors and biologists can observe the details of the run. The underground ladder part is on the right side of the dam itself and partially under the public parking near the parkarea. An expensive 2.- Simoleons is to be paid to see the dam, turbines, waterpumpingsystems and the salmons, which will finance the Salmonrun Program. Funds go to the  "Winding River Conservation Society" which was founded only before the dam was planned, right here in Access Center.

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Having avoided most of the agricultural area, the powerlines from the dam run north beside the town of Access Center and Valmore South and North right into the Phlox county, where the electricity is soon needed by the Slye Sawmill Company and new homes around the area. This is a very costly project, which the Hydropower Company from Lakestead fully absorbs in hope for a futuristic profit one day.

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There was no go around possibility for the airport to fully function without the costly construction of the runway. Some flightcompanies have refused to land in Access for the reason that the runway is way too short to be called safe. The town knew the problem since the airport was bought from Mr Racsan, but it was constructed for smaller planes and not for the giant ones that are now flying everywhere over Simland. So the town has decided to increase the runway's length by more than 40% by adding more space on both ends. It will take a full year to be finalized. How it will be financed is yet not known by the general public.

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That's it again, hope you all enjoyed it and got to know Access Center a little better. I will be back in a week or so for another update. The next time we will see what is new in Phlox and Grasslake, and also see some new counties, like the Stoke mountains and the Stoke flats, where Highway 35 is about to reach the next bridgebuilding project over the Winding River for the last time before exiting the Region.

I am still looking for new characters, if interested pm me with the details.(name, history, future plans etc)

If you like this update, well leave a comment, if you don't, hey I want to know why, so you better leave a comment also. Thanks.

Fred ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on November 09, 2009, 07:11:06 PM
Very cool update Fred! Btw, I think I did see a dinosar bone. Idk, though.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on November 09, 2009, 07:44:13 PM
This has been a truely great update! So much has happened in acces its great! I love all the new appartments in downtown and I see a bright future for this town.  :thumbsup:

Also when are you going to do replies? they're piling up.  &Thk/(
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: RustyXL on November 09, 2009, 09:56:19 PM
Wow, these past couple of updates have been awesome! That A380 was a bit out of place though, but your right that there arent too many planes from that era for SC4. The only plane I know of from that era is my Boeing 727. Its nice to see that the bus system is working out well. I'm looking forward to seeing the next update.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lynncanox on November 09, 2009, 10:20:36 PM
Yes , it's still me Fred, with my wife's account, still haven't found out why I can't post anything anymore. Maybe my browser my son thinks. I have a friend, a real computer expert, come tomorrow to fix this.




Quote from: Driftmaster07 on November 09, 2009, 07:11:06 PM
Very cool update Fred! Btw, I think I did see a dinosar bone. Idk, though.

So where did you see that dinosaur bone? The pictures have numbers, just above the image, just tell me which number.


Daniel côté, what do you mean by *doing the replies*? Glad you liked that update.

Thanks RustyXL, do you have a link for that Boeing 727?

Thanks folks
Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on November 10, 2009, 01:15:03 AM
I think Danielcote means reply to the replies...

and WOW!!! :o :o

looking fantastic, as always :)

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 10, 2009, 08:17:03 AM
Quote from: JoeST on November 10, 2009, 01:15:03 AM

reply to the replies...


I still don't understand, replying what to what replies? Am I missing something here?..... %confuso

Fred

btw, got my browser fixed by downloading the newest version of IE.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on November 10, 2009, 08:22:21 AM
Coming along very nicely.  That dam turned out pretty cool, and I like how you're laying out the roads for the industrial park. 
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rooker1 on November 10, 2009, 08:27:07 AM
It gives me great pleasure mrB to move your MD to the "Classics Section".  Here's to another 500 plus posts.  &apls

Robin  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 10, 2009, 12:04:48 PM
Thanks Battlecat, glad you like the dam.
Wow, already in the Classics, this is great! Thanks rooker1.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on November 10, 2009, 01:37:40 PM
Okay, maybe pic 26?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: just_a_guy on November 10, 2009, 02:41:23 PM
I couldn't find you're MD today for some odd reason but then it came to me to check the classics section and there you are. Congradulations! You really deserve it.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 10, 2009, 07:01:11 PM
Driftmaster07, well pic26 it is! It is supposed to be a kind of an Alligator or Croco, I know bad fotoshopping.......I'll do better next time. ;)

just_a_guy, thanks and glad you found it....lol

I will have a very small update later this week. The surveyors found something in Phlox while planning the powerlines through the forests.......................
too important to let it wait.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on November 10, 2009, 07:24:53 PM
I think it was pretty good actually. I read about one croc with like a long snout or something and it was really something to fear!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 14, 2009, 07:06:15 PM
Well, here is a small update as promissed.

««" John," Mike Allheimer said to his boss John Gabber in the usual Friday afternoon meeting at the Olsen Pub, "did you hear about what's going on in Phlox this morning? They said everything is blocked and the army has a checkpoint there."
John: " This morning I went to Phlox to have an early breakfast with Slye at his Cantina and everything was ok, but when I got back, the road was blocked and I had to go through a checkpoint to get through. The army was there, the sherrif too and believe it or not, even the federal police."
Mike," Wow, do you know what this is all about?"
John, " nah, I only have some doubts. I talked to one of the roadworkers there after the roadblock and he told me that the Hydroline surveyors found some weird structures and two skelletons nearby."
Mike, "Don't tell me they finally found the two missing bridgeworkers from last year?"
John, " Not sure, but its kinda strange that he told me they found some sort of strange structures at the same place. .....and why all these military folks?"
Mike, " I don't know, but something fishy's going on there for sure. You said the surveyors found the bodies near some structures, how?"
John, " Yeah, you know they're about to build the powerline from the Access dam down to Slye's sawmill and the line goes right nearby the access road in Phlox county, west river district. These guys probably just marked where the new line is going to be and found the two corpses or skelletons. "
Mike, "I'm sure that there will be a serious investigation going on."
John, " I guess so, but I'm still a little confused what the army has to do with this, and why block the road like this? There's more I think"»»

The conversation between the two went on for an hour and at the exit of the Olsen Pub, they met Richard from the Access Tribune. Richard didn't hear anything about this yet, but somehow got exited and started asking all kinds of questions.

The next day Mike and John met again for breakfast, this time in Bluebay and both had more detailed news about this event in Phlox.
It wasn't the surveyors that found the corpses, but the workers that build the powerline. The two corpses only left with scattered bones were found near some skull-like rockstructures right in the middle of nowhere. John's and Mike's secret of the skull is now not a secret anymore and the government has its hands on it. The whole area is locked off for public access. John and Mike don't know what to do with their secret now, searching for help with Grandpa Henry, John's father.

More tomorrow........

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.......and just so you know exactly where this is happening............

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Fred ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on November 14, 2009, 08:58:19 PM
Wow Fred, nice work. I hadn't realized progress was clipping along so quickly again. I've been a bit preoccupied, but I'm going to have a run through the last page or so and catch up. I can see the lumber company has grown significantly, and is now playing with the rails and rivers a bit. I like where things are going. Also, TS's house and logging office are great choices (particularly the office, the wood siding is a nice touch, heh heh). I'll leave a more detailed comment once I've caught up here. Great stuff.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on November 15, 2009, 08:23:55 AM
Cool little teaser there! Could the bodies be of the two workers who went missing? ??? Or are they the skull people's bodies. I couldn't tell.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on November 15, 2009, 09:54:13 AM
Something is fishy. It sounds like an old tribe of natives that used to live there but then they either left or died off. The question I have is why would the Govt want anything to do with it and why is it being kept so secret?  &Thk/(
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 15, 2009, 10:43:10 AM
threestooges, glad you like what Slye (TS) is getting into, I have big plans for him this winter with many new BATs, some never seen before and some very interesting ones.

Driftmaster07, I am sure that the two bodies are NOT from the skull people because like they all said, they only lived as a legend and that some 3000 years ago, find9ing bones and skelletons would just be a real wonder. So, logically it would be the two missing bridgeworkers like John Gabber suspected. But what were they doing there, almost 2 kilometers from the bridge in the middle of the forest? And why are they dead? What happened to them?. Only the Coroner will find out, I hope.

danielcote, if you have read the story from the beginning, John and Mike found the first skullhuts while they were on a fishing trip and it was then explained more or less what these actually were, just a legend.....But now that the Government and Army is involved in this finding, it is surely not the death of the two workers that makes all that chaos in that part of the region, but maybe a serious mystery with this legend.....and like you, I'm asking myself why is it kept so secret? Hm.....?

I will have a little more news about this in the evening, but nothing is confirmed, so many rumours and no real and statements. The officials have not commented on this at all yet and I am starting to wonder if they ever will.

See you later tonight with some more pics and news....

Fred

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on November 15, 2009, 02:54:37 PM
Can't wait for tonight! Maybe a cult of the skull people? This region is not exactly normal.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on November 15, 2009, 03:29:15 PM
Yes actually I had read that and I remember it slightly but its been a while so maybe I should do some review.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 15, 2009, 09:10:45 PM
Sorry, I just couldn't get everything ready tonight for the follow-up (not enough free time with the family), but I will hopefully do it for tomorrow night. It will be quite interesting. Be there!

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 16, 2009, 08:11:15 PM
UPDATE 30B


As promissed here is the follow-up of that event from yesterday....

This morning things are stirred up quite a lot in the region, curious people are blocking the roads everywhere and the army and police have problems to get things under control. Mike, John and Henry (John's father) went to have breakfast in the shopping mall. There they met Slye and asked him to join them. Slye , coming from his sawmill, told his adventures on the way down to Access.

««"So, how was your trip this morning," John started the conversation," any problems coming down through the controlpoint in Phlox?"
TSlye: "That was one of the worst trips I ever had in between Phlox and Access, no wonder that I have my breakfast with you guys, usually I'm already digesting it on the way down to the sawmill at the hour you guys get here." he stated with a somewhat angry face," the day really didn't start off like I wanted it and it was supposed to be a big busy day at the sawmill. Now I'm stuck here."

Mike all surprised: " What happened, you look stressed out this early?"
"Stressed out? .....Geeeez, you should see the freaking roadblock in Phlox, they're stopping everyone and ask for identification, Man.....what are they looking for? The devil himself? "

Henry started laughing and added: " Listen, once the government gets involved with their stupid things, they always exagerate it. I remember the time just before the war when we headed towards that small village in....."
"Whoa Dad, don't start it this morning, " John interrupted," we just don't have the time for it, maybe later this weekend you can tell that story" ...and John continued.." I heard that they found some old buildings out of rock from a pre-historical period, you know the skullpeople, as we learned it the elementary school as a legend?"
" Yeah, I remember" Slye and Mike mumbled.
"That legend might be a reality after all." John continued, "Let me tell you a little secret the three of us have since 4 years now, Slye. We once went fishing on the Winding River, not far from the roadblock, but on the mainriver and only a few yards inland we found such a rockskull home. We have kept it secret and all three of us bought all the land around it to maybe have a profit of the "sacred" land, except where they found something two days ago."
"Oh boy" Slye said with an intruiging voice, " are we all in trouble now, because I have some land there too?"
" Of course not," Mike jumped into the conversation, "We just don't have to tell them that we know this for almost four years, don't we?"
Silence all of sudden took over the conversation and all four looked at each other with worries.
Henry broke the silence: "Don't make a big story with nothing boys, this does not concern us at all. We bought the land as a future investment, so many others did anyways and who say we're the only ones that have such skulls on our property, maybe there are hundreds all around the area, you know, this region is big!"»»

Slye continued telling his story of his way down. First he was slowed down by a bunch of cows that some farmer has lost during the night, they blocked the road and were hard to toss over. Then he had a flat tire only a few yards away and getting to the roadblock, hundreds of cars were waiting to go through. The army was controlling the whole area and no one actually knows exactly why and when they ask officials of the soldiers all they get as an answer is: " Have a nice day now, Sir, you can pass."

pic1
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg204.imageshack.us%2Fimg204%2F1634%2F1westrivercowsontherd.jpg&hash=0ca09ac53b37feac2e93d85a12b5cd37c6e2adbe)

A lot of curious people gathered at the roadblock , making things more difficult to handle and control for the army and police. The army started building a small trail through the brushes and woods to reach the frashly found location of the skulls with vehicules less than a kilometer away.

pic2
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg52.imageshack.us%2Fimg52%2F6196%2F2westriverroadblock.jpg&hash=fb37f92fe2539e8df1f831d8f3aad9b90b42b668)

Later the road was completely blocked for a cessna to land on the gravel road, just about when John arrived at the location. It was the FAI people (Federal Agency of Investigation) . John knew right away that something more important than just these rockhuts or the two dead bodies were found, but had no idea what it could be.
The highway was completely shut off a few kilometers ahead and to make sure that all the cars go through the ckeckpoint. In the air helicopters and planes were active like it was wartime and John was thinking that all the public airtraffic probably is redirected also. This must be very important and he wants to find out.

pic3
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg511.imageshack.us%2Fimg511%2F8822%2F3westriverfai.jpg&hash=727935535947d912b8dfd294bd80b6cb424ac7cd)


On the next picture we can see the distance from the road where the "Skullvillage" was found. The Hydro Powerline workers were the first that found a bunch of skull-like rocks in a small group near the West River. Right away the place was sealed off from the public and also the powerline workers and some trees were cut down for helicopters to land. The wires on these towers have not yet been installed, making it a lot easier for the airunits to join the site, but the Powercompany now is starting to wonder when they can continue setting the lines.

pic4
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg34.imageshack.us%2Fimg34%2F8558%2F4westriverview.jpg&hash=e496fcadfbb3a0cf042d0dfba094e04af69e413c)

So far they have found four rockskulls, that's all I know, what these are and what besides that they have found are not of my knowledge. There is more, no doubt, and I even suspect it way more serious than it seems. I guess time will tell....well.....maybe not.
The army has put up a basecamp just near the skullsite, brought in with helicopters and every square inch of the neighboring location seems to be inspected and turned over. Even some scientists or whatever these whitecoat wearing men and women are, have been seen around here. They say everything is under control, something that tells me there's a problem, ..........and there's more to it...........

pic5
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg697.imageshack.us%2Fimg697%2F2118%2F5westriverskullvillage.jpg&hash=8b49138b7789451cba13c9055bc779e9bf8a08d5)


Next weekend I will come back with a regular update of the region, now that the rails have reached the western borderline and the highway bridge construction over the mighty Winding River has offcially started.

Have a nice and easy week.

Fred


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on November 17, 2009, 03:27:22 AM
Nice job Fred!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on November 17, 2009, 09:43:58 AM
Fascinating update, this really does seem to be an overreaction based on just those rocks.  Wonder what else is going on . . .

Great job with the addition details to tell the story in this area!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: just_a_guy on November 17, 2009, 05:17:57 PM
Yes, something is a bit fishy there isn't it? A great storyline so far Fred. It leaves me waiting anxiously for the next update!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on November 17, 2009, 05:41:04 PM
Great job every things realistic including the story line!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 21, 2009, 09:53:02 AM
Thanks for the feedback.

Update 31
Here are some late news from Access:

Mayor Steven Bartlett from Access Center approached today the folks from Valmore South, the northern border of Access Center and offered to unite both municipalities for mutual benefits.
Ever since Valmore North joined the Phlox-county, Valmore South was kinda forgotten and left behind. The Mayor of Access sees in this not only an oportunity to enlargen the municipality of Access and its income, but also the access to the Valmore lake and the archeological finds nearby which could be of "good use", as he tells.
" One hand washes the others" he says, meaning that Access will be able to profit some advantages from Valmore and Valmore gets Access' services, helping in each other with a chance for better future. A "good deal" in his opinion for both municipalities. To join Access Center, the Mayor needs at least 65% of Valmore's votes, so that the Government will accept the joining of the two. The Valmore county will keep its name as a suburban of Access.
The vote will be held this week.

On the picture below the blue line is the borderline between the two municipalities and as we can see, Valmore and Access are slowly growing into each other, another good reason for the union of both.

pic1
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg682.imageshack.us%2Fimg682%2F3872%2Fvalmoresouthjoining.jpg&hash=5094e0d5fef4dd247e2577ce0c424c9e0640fa8a)

So, what do you Readers think (and those who have Characters in this story)? Should they join into one town? You will represent the Voters from Valmore, so we want your opinion.
And in the picture below you can see more details of both municipalities. Valmore South now lies between Access Center and Phlox, which includes Valmore North.

pic2
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg25.imageshack.us%2Fimg25%2F1339%2Fvalmoreaccessjoining.png&hash=8c6ba26c6724ef4366001eec3b64c897461389dc)

I will be back later this weekend with another small update. We will visit Grasslake and some new Counties.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Korot on November 21, 2009, 10:37:54 AM
I vote in favour of merging Valmore South with access, as Valmore lays a lot closer to Access than to Valmore North.

Regards,
Korot
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: just_a_guy on November 21, 2009, 12:40:10 PM
I also vote for the merging of Valmore South with Access. It will definitly make Valmore have a lot more access to Access Center
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on November 21, 2009, 01:05:06 PM
Joining together is always a good idea. :) And, frankly, Valmore S. and N. are pretty much separated by farmland. But you may want some RES and COM developments in Valmore North before you separate them. Otherwise, pretty much almost no jobs in Valmore N.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on November 21, 2009, 04:03:22 PM
Great update! I think joining will make the two stronger.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 21, 2009, 08:33:07 PM
Looking good for Mayor Bartlett of Access that his town will soon grow further north into Valmore South. The Mayor thanks you for voting.
Driftmaster07, You're right. Valmore North will also be in the update. There are a few changes concerning the population.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 23, 2009, 07:39:46 PM
I will not have the time to make an update as promissed this week. I am leaving tomorrow morning to Calgary for a courtcase that I have there pending and I will be gone for a good week I think. Thanks for understanding.

Fred

Edit: Meanwhile continue voting for the Valmore residents............ "$Deal"$
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on November 23, 2009, 11:04:58 PM
Something is indeed odd here. If it didn't mean having to go back through that roadblock again, I'd be tempted to go check it out. Ah well. There are more pressing things to worry about at the moment, like tossing cows. What? You mean I have to go back that way? Does anyone have a boat I can rent? Nice work on the custom BATs and props Fred. The level of customization you've always brought to your work is no less impressive here. I'm looking forward to seeing what you do with the saw mill (and wouldn't mind getting my hands on a few of those BATs once things get set with them) and how the story progresses. I'm also waiting to see what this big cover up is about. Scientists and all. Good luck on the case, and I hope all is well.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mi7chael on December 09, 2009, 11:18:24 AM
good job
fantastic history
congratulations
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: adroman on December 12, 2009, 05:38:48 AM
Sorry I haven't dropped in before, Fred... But, you've gotten me hooked on it  ;)

Fantastic work, you're story telling is second to none...  :thumbsup:

I'll be in again, that's for sure.

Havva good one,
Adrian.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TheTeaCat on December 12, 2009, 07:02:50 AM
Just caught up on everything. sorry its been a while &mmm

Amazing as always, I just love the amount of detail you put in, be it in the story or within the game  &apls &apls

I vote for joining the two communities as the benefits outweigh the costs.

:satisfied:
TTC

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 21, 2009, 10:19:44 PM
Sorry, but you will still have to wait for another week before I will be able to make a few updates and continue this MD at a normal pace. I have been so darn busy and also some unexpected problems with one of my businesses have made my life a little off the normal scale lately.

I have a few things still to do and I will be with you all here in my MD, in my BAT-thread and finally continue the GRV II Challenge regularily. Just give me a week or so. Meanwhile have a nice Christmas and enjoy the family times.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mi7chael on December 22, 2009, 07:07:11 AM
Hello friend, okay?
First, congratulations on the diary, is excellent. Very good.
wondering if you have this prop (Nexis Mega Sawmill)for download somewhere.
Sorry my English, I'm from Brazil, and not speak English good
Thank you

Prop:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg8.imageshack.us%2Fimg8%2F9939%2Fsawmill.jpg&hash=df728f360d320338885ee919a20da44c01813c2c)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: clearlypowa on December 22, 2009, 07:28:01 AM
Quote from: mi7chael on December 22, 2009, 07:07:11 AM
wondering if you have this prop (Nexis Mega Sawmill)for download somewhere.


http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/details.cfm?id=11769

;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on December 22, 2009, 08:55:45 AM
This is quite good... One of the best MD's on here.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on December 22, 2009, 09:28:38 AM
Nice MD. I just read it this morning, and I am very impressed :thumbsup:. I'm just curious; is your offer of having a character still out there?

                      -Jordan
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 22, 2009, 09:39:30 AM
mi7chael, I guess clearlypowa answered that quicker than me, thanks.

Thanks Cyclone1001 for dropping a line.

canyonjumper,
Yes, my offer to have a character in my story is still open, always can use a few more. (as long as it is not an architect or bldg engineer)
Just PM me with a name, where from, age at the time of entry, where he/she wants to live now and later, what he wants to do in his life in my story, wife, kids later on, what he/she likes or hates and anything that could be useful for me to create a story about his character. You can always add more during the story by PM'ing me with the info. Go for it! ;)

Obligation: I will keep that character alive and healthy as long as you leave a comment once in awhile (not necessary at every update though) If I haven't seen you or your comment for a longer period (like 3 or 4 months or so) your character will die of "natural" or "unnatural" causes. :(

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mi7chael on December 22, 2009, 10:20:46 AM
thanks clearlypowa and mrbisonm
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on December 22, 2009, 12:52:36 PM
Wow its christmas break and still no update!? Man whats happening with you to make you so buissy?  &mmm
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mi7chael on December 22, 2009, 04:30:12 PM
Hello everybody
In the link above appear only 4 files in lot editor:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg694.imageshack.us%2Fimg694%2F4874%2F27158547.jpg&hash=d222d9bb6b3d16e98b1af5eec25b5a732d132cd8)
(filenames:
Nexis_HardwoodPlanksPileBig
Nexis_HardwoodPlanksPileAttached
Nexis_HardwoodPlanksAttachedLargePile
Nexis_HardwoodLargePlanksPile)

And I most needed are the 2 below:

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg706.imageshack.us%2Fimg706%2F526%2F36311345.jpg&hash=3ebfd1a05b72238945d4ae132eda41619fdef5ec)

Will is missing or what I'm doing wrong?
And I looked in simtropolis, but not found
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 22, 2009, 10:22:45 PM
Quote from: danielcote on December 22, 2009, 12:52:36 PM
Wow its christmas break and still no update!? Man whats happening with you to make you so buissy?  &mmm


Well, it's easy to understand, I have to take care of my businesses first, then I have to make sure that all the plans promissed before the end of the year are done and verified. I am a Loghome designer/ Professional Taxidermy Artist and a Hobbyfarmer that has to take care of 72 beefcows (with help). Plus I have a serious lawsuit for a deadly accident on one of my construction sites north of Calgary, close to Canmore to be exact, and all that makes me busy......I know, but real life first. Don't worry Daniel, I'll be back full time during the 4 weeks of free time that I will take fro myself and my wife Lynn, starting next Monday, dec 28th.  ;)


mi7chael, you're not doing anything wrong, what you downloaded is a proppack only. I don't know if I still have these props you want, but I will try to find the logs and sawdustpile, if not I will send you another set that can replace these easily. Send me a PM with your e-mail and give me a few days (1 or 2).


Fred





Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on December 23, 2009, 08:08:53 AM


ok don't worry I understand.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: JoeST on December 26, 2009, 02:53:18 AM
good luck with all your business. and happy holidays to one of my favourite MD'ers :)

Joe
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on January 01, 2010, 06:42:20 PM
Happy New Year Fred!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on January 01, 2010, 07:22:46 PM
Happy 2010 Fred!! Hope this year has a lot of good surprises and fortune!

                     -Jordan
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on January 17, 2010, 02:05:46 PM
Just to let you all know that I am not dead yet. ;)
After all I have been through irl last summer and fall, I decided to disappear right after Christmas for some *Metime* to my favourite Country, New Zealand, and spend relaxing moments away with my wife from all the stress and problems that were following me. I just got back last night.
Now that I am back home, other problems reappear....lol....Dohhhh! (smaller ones though)
The water pipe in one of my barns froze because of the two weeks of -20 C we had in Quebec/Canada and one of my apprentices decided to drop her studies in the architecture line and start something else, plus problems with my gaming computer, which one of my sons greatly abused while we were gone and some more minor things. In other words: What a mess! ;)

So, I will have to get all these things straightened out first, get used again to normal life at home and get myself back into Simcity play. I suppose this will take a couple of weeks.
Don't panic, nothing will change, everything will continue in a regular way. I am still on vacation until the end of March, besides the regular things to do at home and on the farm.

I have posted this in all my three threads: Nexis Works (Batforum) - GRV II - Winding River Project (MDforum). I will continue my BATs and my MD/CJ soon and GRV II will be fully back online also.
For those who haven't filled all the challenges in the GRV Challenge, now is the time, because I will start to calculate the points for the last challenges next weekend and once they're all done and uploaded, the last two challenges will be on their way.(I only hope that some of you are still with us)
Concerning my BATs, some of them will be released soon. And my MD will be fully back with regular updates also.

Sorry, it took so long, but before paying myself a fullsized heartattack because of all that stress and fatigue from last summer and fall, I decided to think of myself first for the last months.
Thanks for hanging in there and have a wonderfull year 2010. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TiFlo on January 17, 2010, 02:48:51 PM
Thanks for the news!

I'm a newcomer to Sim City 4 (well, a couple of months now) and have really enjoyed reading your MD so far. Take it easy, RL comes first!

Cheers,

TiFlo
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on January 17, 2010, 02:54:48 PM
Excellent news. Glad to hear you're back on course.

                    -Jordan
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on January 17, 2010, 04:41:57 PM
Go ahead and get things straightened out, less stress is  better for everyone :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on January 17, 2010, 08:08:01 PM
Have a happy 2010! I hope you get things straightened out!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on January 18, 2010, 11:31:32 AM
Thanks for understanding. I will probably have a small update ready later this week or on the weekend (Newspaper headlines of the events coming up in the Winding River Region).

fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on January 26, 2010, 09:56:39 PM
An Update is on its way.......Next Sunday. Here are the headnews, but there will be more.........;)


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg8.imageshack.us%2Fimg8%2F5450%2Faccessnews3.png&hash=9c87ab16c9c71137e4c7f8700d6c5e497aaba0f9)

Have a nice week.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on January 26, 2010, 10:03:25 PM
Great paper Fred! Can't wait 'til Sunday!

                  -Jordan
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on January 26, 2010, 10:19:58 PM
What's this about a fire now? Everyone ok? How about my steak? I'll need to check on things, make sure everything's running as it should. Any idea what actually started the fire?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on January 27, 2010, 09:15:43 AM
I heard that the fire was started by natural causes in the nearby forest and with the wind it spread into the sawmill's direction, but fortunetly heavy rains somehow were able to stop its growth.
No fire trucks available yet in this area, only in Access Junction, and they only have one truck sofar and two fireworkers, not much as one could ask for. Hopefully the Mayor will take this into serious consideration and get his fireprotection up to date soon, now that the two municipalities have joined.
Btw, no one was hurt because when folks got there, the fire was already dying. But....woufff, that was too close to his sawmill for Slye.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on January 27, 2010, 11:35:33 AM
Interesting bits of news there!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on January 27, 2010, 11:41:12 AM
Very nice!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on January 27, 2010, 12:07:32 PM
Nice work on these headnews! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 01, 2010, 08:12:34 PM
Sorry for being late....Ok, I finally got around to install the game and its components in my new computer, but so many things still to get, install and to *tweak*. At least I can use it for now, open my game and take some pictures. Of course I didn't have much time yet to make significient changes to my region, nor create new BATs (gmax has not been installed yet), but don't worry, they'll come.


Pic1^
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg171.imageshack.us%2Fimg171%2F9893%2F1capitolcity.jpg&hash=7c56deaf9dd8d0e67d001e9725fe16be846415b7)

The Minister of Natural Resources announced last week the results of the official Winding River regional survey, that took two years to finalize. Although not every part of the region has been surveyed, but it was quite surprizing what they came up with.
No precious metals of stones were found during that period, except for one little find of gold.
Resources that were found in large quantity are Coal, Aluminum, Iron Ore and some parts of the swampy areas even have oil. Other resources include wood, large amounts of fish in the River itself and a lot of flat and fertile terrain just ideal for agricultural use. The picture below shows the most important resource discoveries.

Pic2^
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg109.imageshack.us%2Fimg109%2F1018%2F2resourcemap.jpg&hash=47405151a6dde4ce66cdb165ac3fd36311461d89)

Access Center, formerly named Access Junction, has the Valmore South municiplaity joined with them for better administration and of course a better futur for both of them. The votes of Valmore were 782 to 412 to join Access. So it is done and Valmore today has become a part of Access Center. At the same time Access Center was declared independant from the Lakestead County and has it's own county now, Access County. All that was officially signed during the last weeks in the Capitol City of Lakestead. (Picture above)
Mr Steven Bartlett, the mayor of Access , was happily received, when the Access Officials came back from the city to announce the good news. A big party was organized at Barby's Weingarten that day.

Pic3^
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg59.imageshack.us%2Fimg59%2F346%2F3accessweingarten.jpg&hash=ff0a5c9e6a0cd4be08089f6c68df0a497f0fb53f)

Yesterday Morning Henry Gabber, the owner of Gabber Industries and John Gabber's father, had his first heart attack at the age of seventy. He was brought to the Bluebay Hospital where it was decided to bring him immediatly to the General Hospital in Lakestead, where the best Cardiologists in the area were waiting for his arrival. His wife Marlene travelled with him by helicopter.

pic4^
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg269.imageshack.us%2Fimg269%2F3379%2F4capitolhospital.jpg&hash=1470d09925ed0e64898704453d94847c088b8629)

John and his brother Gary Gabber, including the family's best friend Mike Allheimer all went to join them later in the Gabber's private plane.
Lakestead, the Capitol, is about 125 miles (approx 200Km) from Bluebay and the highway extension to the west has not been build yet, therefore traveling by car would take at least 6 hrs to contour the whole mountain chain. With the Gabber's Jet it only takes about 25 minutes.
We will know more of his condition in the next update.

pic5^
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg203.imageshack.us%2Fimg203%2F3856%2F5accessairportprivateje.jpg&hash=935250c1f78558ac1ff70a76d807049e812ad076)

««" Is Grandpa going to be ok?", little charlie asked his father, while he was preparing to leave to the hospital, " Will he be gone for a long time?"
" Don't worry Charlie", John answered his youngest son, who never really cared much about Grandpa anyways as he thought," I'm surprized you asked, I thought you didn't like Grandpa...?"
" I never said I didn't like Grandpa, it's just that he always mumbles about everything I do...,.now will he be ok?"
" Yes, he will. They brought him to the best place where people with heartproblems are treated. He will probably mumble again in a few days", John said with a smile while hugging his son before leaving with Mike.»»
Charlie seemed to be a little sad, when father John left, mostly because of Grandpa's condition. Although he absolutely never liked his comments, he kinda thought about what it would be like without him, something he surely would mind.
A few minutes later Charlie was on the phone with his best friend Diar seeking some understanding and comfort. They agreed to meet on the next weekend to plan a small nature exploration with a group of their friends this summer. Going north from Grasslake no one actually has done yet.

Meanwhile in the Valmore County a fire rage has spred throughout the area and burning down a lot of acres of forests. The fire came as close to Slye's Sawmill as a shout, and all the workers were ready with hoses, pumps,shovels and machinery to confront the firewall. Fortunetly the fire burned itself out during the heavy rain before reaching the sawmill perimeters. What a relief for TS, who panicked like never before. The firestorm left as fast as it appeared, leaving a lot of dead trees behinds without actually having burned them to the ground. Maybe some valuable wood can still be found there, Slye thought.
That's it, he said to his workers, he will never be dependant on the Access Fire department again who will take ages to get to the sawmill. Slye will build his own Fire department, and that starting next week.  

pic6^
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg403.imageshack.us%2Fimg403%2F4581%2F6phloxfire1.jpg&hash=29454eb604745e999cef614b5b92bb83cf061a8f)

pic7^
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg694.imageshack.us%2Fimg694%2F322%2F7phloxfire2.jpg&hash=5cf6c116253835a5b935f9fa7a751866c1ef01df)

The biggest construction site ever in the country was started last month. It is the Hydrodam on the Winding River near the Capitol City of Lakestead that will one day take care of the powerneeds of the west, such as Lakestead, which is growing like crazy. The project is also one of the most expensive ones ever since. Of course that project is starting to give more problems to John Gabber, having already not enough workers to build the Highway and its bridges. Wages are too high for the damworkers he says, and that draws more people to the dam, than for the highway. I guess immigrants would be a solution to the problem.

pic8^
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg269.imageshack.us%2Fimg269%2F4397%2F8thedamconstruction.jpg&hash=48c02448eb234dba168d9f13cba2e5f279f7938e)

In Phlox and Valmore things are starting to move, the bridgebuilding has started, now that the terrains are ready to receive the structures. Dozens of Barges of all sizes have been brought here to transport the materials from the westside to the islands and to the eastside. They are probably starting to build the bridge from both sides, to meet on the island.
I heard they were also planning a temporary bridge that will be used for the trucks to cross the bridge, but in the federal office, they want to have a second permanent bridge to cross the river in case that one fails or needs to be shut in the futur.
Mr Alex Puto, the responsable for the Highway bridge construction, met the officials and discussed some details to build another bridge over the giant Winding River.

pic9^
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg695.imageshack.us%2Fimg695%2F3306%2F9phloxbridgeconstr1.jpg&hash=050cca2c1c6167d9f3bd862571447382cba5322a)

Small harbours were built to receive and ship the materials from one side to another. Even some bigger ships have arrived with the concrete and other  base materials needed for the construction. They come upriver by the sea, something was first thoroughly tested and surveyed, since the river never had any shiptraffic before. Fortunetly the sea is only  about 40 kilomters away (by the river) and less than 10 km's on the map in a straight line to the east. (See the bottom map).

pic10^
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg59.imageshack.us%2Fimg59%2F554%2F10phloxbridgeconstr2.jpg&hash=13099b41d44fafb57f32aee5e3861c7d647fd19a)

Back to Access Center, Mr Welligton the owner of Clubfoods , has bought some land near the shopping Center to build his new office. Rumours are that this will be a several story building, probably the biggest and highest yet in Access. Thinking big, Nethaniel Wellington is going for it, also having asked the municipal office to find him a new space to build a bigger and better Clubfoods. Since the population is growing by the hundreds every year now, they will need better and bigger services, especially for the food needs. Building his office will start in a month and should be finished before christmas this year. All excited, Nethaniel comes to see for himself the constructionadvances every evening.

pic11^
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg34.imageshack.us%2Fimg34%2F5495%2F11accesswellingtonnewbl.jpg&hash=ce3608a16d67ada70856f4ba030e842d000f679c)

Takahashi Riichirou, our civil engineer and Access' neighborhood planner, recommended to the town to hire a specialist in undergroundworks for the waterpipeline from the dam. The first name that came to his mind was Jerry Meaden from Vancouver/ Canada, a GIS specialist. Jerry lives with his son Jordan at the moment and is more than willing to move down to Access Center if it offers him a permanent job. Mayor Bartlett agreed to Takahaschi's offer.
Then in Framton, a young bushpilot with little experience was hired by the Surveying Office to take arial pictures of the Winding River Region, plus be able to transport the surveyors, biologists and others to the never been visited areas of the valley. His name is Steve Gibson, who just married awhile ago and they are awaiting their first child by the end of the year. Gibson was offered an appartment just above the Local newspaper (Access Junction Tribune) in Access, nothing that he fully agreed with.

Here's that small general regional map again so you can make it clear where everything is actually located.

pic12^
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg94.imageshack.us%2Fimg94%2F6840%2F12mapganogawrwnewhighwa.png&hash=12fbfdbe96524a8d2fa157515a93d65def24e8ac)

Hope you liked that update, although it wasn't much to my eyes, but considering all the problems I had, plus not being fully installed on my computer yet, it should be a fair new start for this year.
Another one will come up later this week or at the latest on the next weekend.
We will then talk about the Billionaire Rundi Sterling, the growth of Access towards Grasslake, the plans for the enlargements of the airport, the rails plans and many more interesting stories like * What's the army up to in Valmore, fencing in the whole vicinity and even closing the newly build family homes?*. Winding River is slowly changing.

Have a nice week

Fred


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on February 01, 2010, 08:33:30 PM
Great update Fred! I betcha Slye almost followed in Henry Gabber's footsteps with that fire so close to his mill. It'll be interesting to see how my character fits into your story.
                  Later,
                          Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on February 01, 2010, 09:09:19 PM
Great update! I can't believe you got so much into it. Also Wow is that hospital ever huge!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on February 01, 2010, 09:33:07 PM
Yay, its finally here! Great update as usual.

So how much is the acquisition of the new land costing them, seeing as it is in prime location in Access Center.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on February 02, 2010, 04:26:34 AM
 &apls Great one . I like the hydrodam scenery , very well done.I`m happy for you about your new pc. Hope you still get your castle and stuff. Have fun :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on February 02, 2010, 06:00:37 AM
Fantastic update, looking forward to more... ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on February 02, 2010, 06:27:56 AM
Hello Fred

I really like the buildings you use that are under construction (pic 9) That, I think, is the MrBisonM trademark as I rarely or never see anyone else do that. Are those real growables with jobs? or are they plop lots?

Jim



Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 02, 2010, 09:42:18 AM
Thanks for the comments, always appreciated and surely encouraging.

canyonjumper, well you'll read more about your character in the next update, Jordan Meaden will be leading an important journey to a new discovery in the Winding River Region..........hm......
danielcote, hopefully I will show Mr Wellington's finished new Office bldg in one of the next two updates. ;)
nedalezz, the cost of these prime landlots are probably very high, haven't figured out yet how much they actual paid. ;)
kimcar, don't worry, although I have a new computer, I didn't loose any files whatsoever, therefore the castle is still on gmax waiting to be finalized, soon enough I hope. I am still working on installing files and programs, never thought it would take so long, but then again, I have (too) many files......lol
bat, come again, thanks.
jmyers2043, thanks for the compliment, these constructionlots are all Parklots, but should be easy to transform into Ploppables with jobs I guess. I will release them one day, when I got all of them tweaked properly.

Fred


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on February 02, 2010, 09:58:25 AM
Good to see a new update, glad things are getting less busy in your life!  Your city looks great, I really like that burned area, it's a great detail that looks very realistic!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on February 02, 2010, 02:52:22 PM
Very nice, love the maps. Mineral deposits= good idea.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on February 02, 2010, 04:38:27 PM
Another great update!!! Really fantastic!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 06, 2010, 10:01:24 AM
Looks like notifications are turned off on this for some reason for me, anyways, very nice update! Looking forward to the next one!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: dedgren on February 06, 2010, 08:11:29 PM
Fred, I've got several months of catching up to do.  Instead of a good book, I know what I'll be staying up to read tonight.

WRP has Hall of Fame written all over it.


David
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: penguin007 on February 07, 2010, 03:10:24 AM
Excellent pics and storyline everywhere here. I love the dam construction and the little side stories are excellent

Will
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 07, 2010, 08:24:04 PM
Het thanks folks, comments like these are surely firing me up to present even better *stuff*...;)
I'll be uploading another update in 2 or 3 days.


Remember when the army came and blocked every road just because the Powerline workers found these rockskulls?
" Well rumours are that the army took a large bite out of the region"
Everyone in Access and Valmore is freaking out.....The rich people in Grasslake have a lot of influence in the political world and the general population in big cities......and they don't like to have the army nearby neither.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on February 07, 2010, 08:33:54 PM
Sounds interesting Fred! Can't wait!

          -Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 09, 2010, 02:37:14 PM
 HELP!!  


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg59.imageshack.us%2Fimg59%2F539%2Flakesteadcountyafterdis.jpg&hash=440bab4c6ae4a80682b0d4fe851b54e39af4eda8)


I can't take closer pics because the game crashes.
Now this is quite some problem.

This is what happened: I have opened the Access city accidently with a Pluginsfolder for another city (way less props and lots) and which I use in other cities, the props and lots used for Access weren't in that folder. So I left the game right away to change the Pluginsfolder, but unfortunetly and accidently I have saved that citytile while exitting.....Well, I thought it doesn't matter since I will use the regular Pluginsfolder when I re-enter the tile, but.....here is the problem. All the lots that were in the original Pluginsfolder became without the main props and the textures as we can see on the picture above.
They are still there, I can see all the props, but all others are invisible, even though I have opened the citytile with its original Pluginsfolder.
Now, almost everything that I try to bulldoze, query or change, causes the game to crash, crash and crash... Darn it!
I don't know what to do, does anyone have an idea what I could do to get it back to normal?
This is the tile that's I accidently saved with a smaller Pluginsfolder, thank god, all the other citytiles in this region are perfectly fine.

I hope someone will be able to help me to get the maincity back , because there's a lot of work in it and if I have to rebuild it, it will take a lot of time to get it back as it used to be.

I'm crossing my fingers....... :(


Btw, I'm starting to hate computers, they're far from reliable......I have had many problems lately with computers, especially my brand new one that I probably never understand like the old one I have. I have to learn everything all over again..... >:(


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on February 09, 2010, 03:29:45 PM
What OS are you running? If you are running Windows you can try System Restore.

XP: Follow steps here (http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/helpandsupport/getstarted/ballew_03may19.mspx)
Vista/7: Follow steps here (http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/windows-vista/using-windows-vista-system-restore/)

                     -Jordan :thumbsup:

Good luck Fred!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 09, 2010, 06:23:37 PM
Quote from: canyonjumper on February 09, 2010, 03:29:45 PM
What OS are you running? If you are running Windows you can try System Restore.

XP: Follow steps here (http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/using/helpandsupport/getstarted/ballew_03may19.mspx)
Vista/7: Follow steps here (http://www.howtogeek.com/howto/windows-vista/using-windows-vista-system-restore/)

                     -Jordan :thumbsup:

Good luck Fred!

Thanks Jordan,
I have XP, but I don't think that a System Restore is a good idea, since it restores also unwanted files that you have deleted etc, and it's been a week or so this happened, many programs have been installed lately and many things have been modifies in gmax, SC4 and many other programs. Any other ideas?

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on February 09, 2010, 07:22:50 PM
Try this:

1. Save most recent restore point to HD.
2. Restore computer to necessary time (1 week in your case).
3. Copy the .sc4 file needed to an external drive, or a USB stick.
4. Use the saved restore point to return your computer to its normal state.
5. Overwrite the accidentally saved .sc4 file with the one on the External/USB.
6. Open SC4 to see if it worked.

                -Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 09, 2010, 08:50:25 PM
Thanks very much, but it seems a little to "dangerous" to do this to me. I have this computer since approx. 3 weeks now and I had to transfer and re-upload all the programs, etc etc from my older computer. I am still working on this to get it back to what the other computer was before (sooooo many files).
So, I am just about to have it back to normal and I am afraid if I do a System Restore, that I will not remember what I had and what I didn't have.

I tried something else while being completely discouraged, I opened that specific citytile with a complete empty Pluginsfolder and tried to bulldoze some lots, which I couldn't do before without having the game crash on me. And believe it or not, it worked. I was able to bulldoze all the lots where the buildings weren't showing.
After having done everything I switched to the normal Pluginsfolder for this region and now I can start re-plopping all the missing Bldg's and let the town grow again.

Better than re-doing the whole city from scrap. This way I have kept some of the lots and ALL of the street oulays, which is quite important to have the town looking as before.
With help of earlier pictures, which I have lots of 'em, I will be able to re-plop the most important buildings in the same places as before.
I suppose it won't be that bad afterall. It will take a few xtra days though.

Here is what it looks like right now, ready to have the town re-grow the existing zones.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg69.imageshack.us%2Fimg69%2F6176%2Flakesteadcountynow.jpg&hash=ca809973ac4c7d927f1157cc9cc0197460f8085c)

Tomorrow I will upload the promissed update, but without anything from the town of Access Center itself though.

Thanks for helping, Jordan. I will from now on keep a copy of my citytiles after every four or five updates......something I learned. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on February 10, 2010, 04:02:33 PM
You will re plop my store and cafe right? Pluss all the other cool buildings like the church or the library.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 10, 2010, 06:27:29 PM
I would suggest (this is what did it for me when I had similar problems) to put the graphics settings on low, turn off the game, and then reload it, swithch it to high, turn off the game and restart it again. That got rid of my problems. I'm not sure if it would apply here, but it is worth a try. Just my 2 cents. ;) Hope this gets sorted out.

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 10, 2010, 10:18:04 PM
danielcote, don't worry, everything will be almost like it was before. With help of the many pictures that I have from this citytile and the plopping building cheat I will reconstruct the whole city in no time.

Driftmaster07 , excellent idea, but a little too late, everything except the standing buildings has been bulldozed to the ground already. Thanks for telling, I will keep this in mind the next time. ;)

Sorry for being late again, but I had some small problems with my gameplay and some minor holdups irl.

UPDATE 33.

Does the name of Rundi Sterling mean anything to you? We have talked a little about him earlier, but I think it is time to get to know him better. Born in Frampton City in 1918 from a rich aboriginal family, Rundi took over his father's Simland's first Financial Company. Today in 1964, he is still the CEO of the biggest and most widespred Finance Company in Simland and partially spred to the Overseas. Being a Billionaire since his thirties, he is of the age of 56 today, he is a rather greedy and egocentric big-bellied intelligent fellow and sometimes has dumb and stupid ideas and caprices, which though usually bring him other ideas which eventually increase his income.
In 1957 he decided to build hundreds of Appartmentblocks just because they looked good and which was never certain that he could rent or sell them at any time, but luck struck and today he owns the biggest most modern Livingspaces anywhere. These modern blocks are still build by the dozens all over Simland by his Company earning him millions every year, as shown below in Frampton. He is married only since 19 years and has a son of 17, kinda playboy like.

pic1
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg695.imageshack.us%2Fimg695%2F6373%2F1modernhousings.jpg&hash=13805b8e83de7773f4745ecd32ce37b08f5c07ff)

Making Millions of Simoleons with his buissnesses, Sterling is about to plan another outragous idea. Recently he bought a few several hundred year old castles and strongholds all over Europe, some in good condition. Hiring some 800 or more people fulltime for a few years, he has these castles carefully take appart piece by piece and to be shipped overseas to the Winding River Region only to be reconstructed as they originally were, and that right here on the Stoke Mountains, right smack in the middle of the Valley. Mr Sterling officially announced his plans to make the most important tourist attraction in the Nation about two weeks ago. Now he is about to buy out one of the temporary harbours on the river on the eastside, where the Gabber Company is shipping their materials for the bridgebuilding of Highway 15. John Gabber, the President of Gabber Inc, decided to sell only after the bridge is finished and that there is no other use to his Company anymore. Sterling aggreed since it will take at least another year before the first castleparts arrive. He has now to make sure that they analyse the river carefully and to make sure to see if a big ship can make it up here without any danger of stranding.
Once the castles and the medieval villages are rebuild on top of the western end of the Stoke Mountain Chain, it will be opened for the public as a historical European site. Another strong income again for Rundi.

pic2
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg37.imageshack.us%2Fimg37%2F5434%2F2sterlingstokemtn.jpg&hash=cb9bb8d8ce1cc00081f18f6224730e98dbcc0d27)

Let's go to the Phlox County once again, where parts of the bridge are starting to show. Alex Puto, the Project Manager of the Highway 15 construction has been working days and nights to get the bridge done within the year, but the more time passes, the less he sees his bridgeproject finished in time.
«« "Unless a real miracle happens and we get a warm winter with hardly any frost, we won't be seeing the bridge finished by next year's spring as planned"»»,
he officially said in his monthly report to the Highway Commission. Will this be a check-mate for him?

pic3
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg44.imageshack.us%2Fimg44%2F5397%2F3phloxfirstbridge.jpg&hash=3718ce36c1b7c93ce31f110ce3d2f0249b15d506)

Terry Slye, the owner of the big Slye Lumber Company in Phlox also has some important plans to expand his finished woodproducts transportation. Next year he will be building a railstation that will allow him to charge the woodproducts onto trains for faster and more massive transportation. His plan will cost a lot of $, but things are going well in his sawmill as long as the highway will cut the logs to free the way. Though they will soon hit the Stokeplains with its swamps, just north of the Mountain chain, where forests are scarce for several miles.
He talked about his projects to John Gabber, who always has been his advisor more or less, and John told him not to worry, since Sterling will be doing his own delogging next year, just about the time when the highway will wind through the Stokeplains. A relief to Slye and a green light to go ahead with his plan for the railstation. Besides John told Slye that he thinks the railstation will pay itself while others will be wanting to use it also.

pic4
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg202.imageshack.us%2Fimg202%2F6779%2F4phloxaubergetrainview.jpg&hash=be2de88b37ee79c8d6e9fcf794f8049ded118adb)

Ricky's Bass Lodge was only opened a week ago. The owner doesn't even have an access for the boats and no boats at all, come to think of it. Richard Welder from Lakefield has rented the land from the Government for a longer period to be able to open a fishing and hunting Outfitter base here in Phlox , which later he will expand to the Winding River also. A good idea as John Gabber and Mike Allheimer say, both being vivid hunters and Anglers.
The Lodge is a new way to find some peaceful fishing and hunting in the Winding River Region. Richard will only be open during the summer and fall months for the moment being.

pic5
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg38.imageshack.us%2Fimg38%2F9859%2F5phloxauberge.jpg&hash=133465b552c01fbb53a23c569b43bb590483f76c)

Here is a beautiful overview of the Access Center area. Slowly spreading into the southern hills and north to Lake Valmore, Access seems to flourish in all its splender. Mayor Steven Bartlett was just shortly re-elected as the Mayor for the next three years and for the second mandatory. He has done well with Access, mostly in the last 2 years, offering more and more services to his population. Now he is entering another state of Mayoring, the one of a much bigger town, a little more than 25,000 citizens.
Some complain about the school that has become way too small, others want a small hospital, a secondary school, a bigger meeting hall, a park to relax and play, a library, some gravelroads to be paved, better fire protection and the list goes on and on. True, Access has become a town now, growing fast like crazy and surely not slowing down, especially now with all these new Manufacturing Companies that seek a place to settle nearby.
Take only Nethaniel Wellington, who is planning to build his biggest Clubfoods ever in Access Center and needing more than 50 workers for this, then comes Tom Kohler who is about to extend his buslines to Bluebay, Frampton, Sodom and Beecherfalls, needing another dozen or so fulltime drivers, and also Barby White is seriously thinking about building a Vacational Resort near the Valmore Lake, probably hirring another 30 or so people, plus Guy Racsan who just finished his masterdegree in Aero-Engineering and is about to open a subsidiary of Kent Engineering Company or known as KECO who will be building jetengines for airplanes, which is more and more in demand nowadays, and finally all the other industries which are already planning to build their Companies in Access.
The Winding River Region is changing and modern times are starting. Mayor Bartlett was elected with 62% of the majority, which is actually quite good, but the population think that he will be able to handle the town of Access as easily as he did the village of Access. Let's wait and see....

Since a few months now the South-eastern Rail Company is figuring out how to expand the rails into Sodom and Bluebay. Bluebay has a 189,000 population and is growing massively also, needing rails badly. Somehow and luckily for Access, it was decided to go right through the town of Access Center and over the lower hills south of the town. Access will soon have new Access to rails....oh boy, this will be fun. It will either kill or give it a heck of a boost, Old Henry Gabber tells everyone, now that he is back on his feet and recovered from his heart-attack. Grandpa Henry doesn't like rails nor railers, Steam Riders as he calls them, he never did anyways and seriously think it might kill the quietness and charm of Access somehow.

pic6
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg218.imageshack.us%2Fimg218%2F7963%2F6wrpview.jpg&hash=115db47a375400fe65bbbc339308c7504127a821)

West River has been invaded by farmers eversince the government offered these lots for farming at a low price. The rich and fertile small river banks are ideal to cultivate excellent foodcrops and therefor are in great demand. Mostly younger farmers have been noticed in this area, willing to raise a family in these parts.

pic7
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg651.imageshack.us%2Fimg651%2F2783%2F7westriverfarms.jpg&hash=db247eef6f4197e0cdb354b702575cfc147ed952)

Just on the other side of the West River is this place where they found the rockskull huts last fall and where the army invaded the wooded landscape.

««" Did you see the gate and the fences that the army has erected in West River?", John asked Mike at the weekly meeting in Access at Barby's, "What the hell are they doing there, it looks like that they are installing some permanent premisses there. Geeez, I don't like the army to be here at all. It smells trouble all the way."
"C'mon John, don't exagerate," Mike said, "What bad could they do after all, They're not going to blow up one of these Hydrobombs or whatever they call them, no.... they're just fooling around with those skullrocks or rockskulls or whatever they are, nothing more."
" Shouldn't they leave that to the archeologists or historians? This is the very first time that I have seen armed soldiers guarding old stones, don't they have anything else to do?" John continued, " ...and when you freakin' ask them what they're doing there, they say it's historical protection....pfff....my ass....one or two guards could do the job of protecting the rocks and not a whole army of 300 or more with half a dozen of helicopters......We're being treated as simple stupid idiots here in Access!"
"Whoa, whoa, whoa!!!" Slye interupted, who also is a part of the weekly meeting, " Don't you get all that exited here about this, Johnnyboy. While they're here why not ask them to create a soccerteam and then let's beat the heck out of them in our next regional soccerchallenge instead? " Slye tried to change the conversation.
Some laughter was heard.
Then, " Sorry", John added " I know that there is something very fishy going on there and I am pretty sure that they are about to install themselves there permanently for a certain and mysterious reason and I plan to find out why....I hate those guys"»»
So the conversation about the army continued right into the late friday afternoon and they all left without knowing much more about the whole thing.
Yes, it looks like the army is here for a long time. The whole area is about to be fenced in, they built a permanent entrygate and seem to build more buildings, and most of all, the whole Powerline project was abandoned in this part of West River and the lines will go in a wide halfcircle around the rockskull region now.

pic8
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg109.imageshack.us%2Fimg109%2F1305%2F8westriverarmygateview.jpg&hash=a4024fb72b103684b4863f54ec0db733ad0e56c0)

Below is a closer picture of the gate that was only shortly constructed. No valable reasons have been given  for this action yet, and somehow the population is starting to ask questions impatiently. *What's going on?*, they ask. A closer picture of the rockskull area is not yet possible, since ever flight over the area directly is redirected by an airforce plane or armed military helicopter.

pic9
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg17.imageshack.us%2Fimg17%2F1605%2F9westriverarmygate.jpg&hash=0b18dcc6386737266406e1f11f8ca67176d23216)

What once used to be Valmore, today belongs to Access, thanks to Mayor Bartlett who was able to join both municipalities into one last year. The expansion of the town into valmore is evident. Flat lands are ideal for agriculture but also for residential areas. A great future is awaiting the Valmore part of Access Center.

pic10
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Some very beautiful and nicely arranged residential parts of the town can be found near the highway, mastered by the Civil Engineer Riichirou Takahaschi. Even John Gabber and his wife Mary find these areas quite charming and have talked about moving to Access one day to live during the summer months a more quiet life than in the big city of Bluebay. Besides Access is only 45 minutes from their weekendhome in Grasslake. John's oldest son, John Jr already has tought of the idea to move to this area once he finishes his studies in the University.

pic11
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Here's a better look at the Center of this part of Access, former Valmore. Although the highway is far from finished in the Widing River Valley, parts of it are already becoming busy with traffic.

pic12
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A completely new and modern Dairyfarm has been built in Valmore. It has a milk pipeline. A new way to milk the cows that will let the milk flow from the cow directly into the refrigerating bulktank in the dairyhouse, no more carrying of those milkers all the way down the barnlength. Never been seen before anywhere. They say that the idea came from Canada. Now you can milk the double amount of cows with the same labour. Many farmers from all over the country have come to visit this new invention of dairyfarming shown here in Valmore.

pic13
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg710.imageshack.us%2Fimg710%2F347%2F13valmoresouthlargefarm.jpg&hash=e6ce289a9419797d1e089adba6844f744e7222ec)

You probably wonder where that dinosaure skelleton has disappeared to in Valmore, well, it was build over. You heard right, a museum was built right over the skelleton and now the skelleton can be seen right at the entrance in a big hall that will protect this rare find forever. The Government finally approved the building of an official Natural Science Museum in the Winding River Region, a new attraction and surely worthwhile visiting. There are even some rockskulls to be be seen in parts and pieces. It finally opened its doors last month. A must visit when you're in the area.

pic14
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Jerry Meader was officially hired to take care of the watersystems for Access Center, which now come down from the dam up in the hills. Jerry is from Vancouver and moved down to Access with his son Jordan. Only a few days after he arrived he was asked by Diarmuid MacGormain, about the same age (15), who lives only an appartment below him, to participate in the yearly Wilderness Camping Week with him and his friends, including Charlie Gabber, also 15 years old by now. The whole group will be accompanied by a fellow from the Police department of Access, Mr Davidson. This will be the first of several yearly future trips into the great wilderness with the strict minimum of survival material for a whole 10 days and nights to show youngsters the hard and only way to survive in raw nature. They will be brought by boat to the big Rover Island, also known as the Long Island, where the blue spot on picture No 6 above is.

They will learn important survival tricks and how to find food and water for their needs. This will be on the second weekend of the summer shool vacation. Five people, including the Guide, will take the trip this year. Jordan Meaden was happy to be able to integrade so fast into the new neighborhood as he accepted the offer.
Finally the young bushpilot Steve Gibson officially got hired by the town as a pilot for the surveyors and biologists. He moved in his appartment only a week ago with his wife Ashley who is pregnant with their first child, due sometime in automn, I believe. Steve had his first flight and couldn't get over the size of the valley and the river, talking to his wife about his first experience all evening. He loves the place he says, but is missing the golfcourse of his homecity Frampton which he often spent his weekends. How can a town of 20 thousand not have a decent golfcourse in the sixties, he asks himself, something has to be done about this. Since bushpiloting doesn't pay that much and is not a fulltime job for the moment being, Steve is asking everywhere on the airport for a secondary job. He hasn't found one yet, but surely could find one working for the highway, not something he actually is looking for.

Tom Kohler , who lives in an appartment on the second floor near Barby's Beergarten, is about to finish his collegal studies in the line of buissness and technology. At the age of 22 now, he will push it further with a buissness Management degree in his hometown's University in Beecherfalls, where he will spend most of his time during the studies. Now that his Taxibuissness in Access runs by itself (4 cars) and the buslines are about to  expand into a eight-bus line for several destinies starting from Access, he can pay himself the studies and the trips to Beecherfalls every week. Tom just bought himself a small lot in former Valmore last fall, a place where the future will hold his first home one day he hopes.

Michael Arven is another young fellow ambitious to continue studies and create a good future for himself, only seventeen at the moment and already having designed some original weekendhomes for people of Grasslake, including the big chalet of the Gabbers, Michael will be leaving to the Bluebay College earlier this fall to continue his studies in architecture. Right now he is still designing some smaller weekend homes for people of Valmore and Phlox, earning his college and university fees.

Riichirou Takahaschi, our Access Civil Engineer, is still dreaming to lead a big project like the Highway 15, which now is run by Mike Allheimer and Alex Puto. After having designed the small neighborhood project of Access two years ago, he is now on Unemployment and strongly thinking of going back to Japan for a few years. His sister, who worked with him on the same project, is now working for the Mayor's office as the secretary, not that she likes the job, but it feeds her well, as she says. Riichirou has been drawing plans of Sterling county in the last few months, a place he shortly visited in the summer of 63 and fell in love with. A beautiful place to him to create majestic Living spaces, he thinks. Well, his plans surely look darn good, his sister tells him all the time.

Ok that's it again, I'll be back shortly with more. I will have to re-construct Access Center first before I will continue, but it shouldn't be too hard nor too long to do so. I think I will be able to do this on the next weekend.

Here are some of the next events we will talk about.
- Highway 15 has reached the swamps of Stoke, many big problems arrise, some things were badly surveyed and several plans cannot be fulfilled as expected. Is the highway construction to be stopped until they find a way to overcome the problem?
- Wellington finished his new Office building in Access, the highest building yet, something new to admire.
- John Gabber fell out of the sky with Old Rover, it is time to change the old Hydroplane.
- Andy Dubold killed by one of his workers, Andy was the Logger's headman.
- Also Paul Hubert, the founder and first Mayor until 1962 of Access Junction died of heartfailure because no hospitalservices were available close by. Now Mayor Bartlett realizes that it is more than time to get a fully operational hospital into the Town.
- Barby White has chosen a place on Valmore Lake to build her Vacation Hotel, another first in Access.
- and finally, disaster in the coming on the Fingerlake, the lake where our electricity and water comes from. Never seen low water levels like this because of this summer's draught.


List of Players:

Guy Racsan............................. NASCAR_GUY
Michael Arven.......................... mightygoose
Diarmuid MacGormain................. THE TEA CAT
Nethaniel Joseph Wellington........ danielcote
Riichirou Takahaschi.................. just_a_guy
Tom Kohler.............................. RustyXL
Barby White............................ BarbyW
Terry Slye.............................. threestooges
Alex Puto............................... Driftmaster07
Jordan Meaden........................ canyonjumper
Steve Gibson.......................... Cyclone 1001

I still could use at least 4 or 5 more characters in my story, but please, no more architects, engineers or anything to do with aviation, rails or transportation.

Let me know if you're interested in having a character in my story (MD) that could last a few years (as Nexis of Genesis did on Simtrop)

Here are some ideas of beginning jobs ending with....:
Nurse............................ Specialist Surgeon
Iron ore or coal Miner........... Owner and CEO of big mine
Commercial fisher................ Owner of big Fishing Company
Farmer........................... Agronome of the region
Drugdealer and/or Criminal....... Head of an important criminal organisation
Welder........................... Owner of the biggest Welding industry in the region
Truckdriver...................... President of an important Truckingfirm
Student lawyer................... Head of the most important Lawer's firm and Federal Judge
or how would you start of as the young son of the Billionaire Rundi Sterling, as a playful playboy, a Native of the aborigins and proud of it. Or anything else if you have an original idea......

Anyone of the above would be just fine. Interested? All you have to do is come by once in awhile, leave a comment or message and have fun reading the story of your character which future will be in my hands. Let me know.

Have a nice week and weekend and enjoy everything that happened and is about to happen. Comments and ideas are always welcomed and surely useful to bring a better MD/CJ.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on February 11, 2010, 04:13:41 AM
Nice update, I can hardly imagine what the tourist attraction will be!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: firdausabdullah on February 11, 2010, 04:43:47 AM
Hey Fred 'mrbisonm',

I would like to be in there too  ;D ... a millionaire environmentalist who would do anything to protect the forest and the animals, and wouldn't mind spending his money on laser guns and stinky bombs! You may call him the 'Green Man', not that he has any dna from Hulk.

BTW, great project this is  :thumbsup:

Cheers,
firdausabdullah
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on February 11, 2010, 07:32:30 AM
Great stuff Fred! So I'm going on a survival trip? Cool!

At least your problem can be fixed by other ways. I guess mine is a little risky ;D.

                 -Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on February 11, 2010, 08:05:27 AM
Great update, another fantastic work!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on February 11, 2010, 09:42:09 AM
Glad you found a solution to this problem!  Very cool update, there's a lot of stuff going on in your region!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on February 11, 2010, 12:42:45 PM
Thats a huge, comprehensive upgrade! Very very nicely done.

I would like to be in the story, if possible. Criminal seems fun :) Johnny B. Badd seems like a fitting name :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 11, 2010, 01:47:58 PM
Looks awesome Fred!!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 11, 2010, 08:14:33 PM
Thanks folks for lurking and commenting.
firdausabdullah  and nedalezz
I will be sending a PM to you soon with questions for details for your character.

Having a character in my story needs some attention, keep that in mind, you will have to show up once in awhile and leave a message/comment. If I see that you haven't been around for a little over a month or 4 or so updates, then your character will simply die either naturally or by accident. (to make a final good story about him/her)
All characters have to start more or less low on the ladder and I will have them climb it, sometimes they drop back and then get up again, just like in real life, but I assure, the more often you come by and look at your character, the better his/her life will be. ;)
Good luck

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on February 11, 2010, 09:26:38 PM
Nice! Can't wait to see access
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 11, 2010, 10:13:29 PM
Just for you danielcote....
Here are two pics, one before the game failure and one after the reconstruction. I worked on it this evening and got almost 75 % of the citytile restored. Of course there are some minor changes, but you will be able to find yourself around since I rebuilt most of the important places almost exactly as before (Long live the building plop cheat)

This was taken in October 1963, just before I made the error of saving the citytile without the proper pluginsfolder.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg249.imageshack.us%2Fimg249%2F6060%2Flakesteadcountyoct26196.jpg&hash=32bc799da47d8f42ecfb0a54162e36d4714903a2)

...and here is the rebuild, that I did tonight. June 1964.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg153.imageshack.us%2Fimg153%2F9558%2Flakesteadcountyjun41964.jpg&hash=99e6b39f3e33acfc6887bd3d46b365d36e889c05)

Doesn't look too bad, right?

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on February 11, 2010, 10:17:41 PM
Looks great! I wonder what you've got blacked out there?

            -Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on February 12, 2010, 08:28:42 AM
Looks like a good rebuild to me.  You managed to get most of it to grow back in exactly the same place!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on February 12, 2010, 10:22:46 AM
Great update  :thumbsup: once again . Sorry to not be there even often that i want . Very teasing the black spot ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on February 12, 2010, 11:13:21 AM
Nice two new pictures there, and looking forward to the next update... :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on February 12, 2010, 11:16:56 AM
Been following this board for a while but never got around to posting. Figured this was as good a time as any to post.

Glad you got your computer sorted out. My old eMac will barely support Simcity anymore (maybe because of all the extras I put on it), so I've had to go on a hiatus from the game until I can afford a new computer. Hopefully, that won't take too long.

I like this "skull village" thing; saw something like it on an Aussie TV show called "Sea Patrol", first season. You've got a good way of telling the story to keep us in suspense, giving us little hints and clues so we can drive ourselves mad trying to figure it out. ;)

I love the lumber mill. Actually, I'm constantly wondering when if and when it might become available to the rest of us; I need mills for my regions, and I can't make my own. My mac doesn't support bootcamp.

I'm somewhat interested in picking up a character in this. I like the sound of Douglas Panamint, prospector and miner.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on February 12, 2010, 05:29:03 PM
Hey Fred, check your PM's... I sent you one about joining too!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 12, 2010, 08:44:29 PM
Hey thanks folks for the interest.

canyonjumper, well...it is actually not that important what I blocked out but I want to wait for the next update before showing it. It's got something to do with Nethaniel Wellington, our Clubfood's owner.
Battlecat, yes, some of the bldg's I had to destroy several times before I got the right one back until I thought of the Residential Plopcheat....hey, that wasn't so easy neither, because I didn't know the names of those lots. But it came out pretty good I think.
kimcar, it's not that important that you come here that often, it is appreciated to see you once in awhile like this.Thanks
bat, thanks for dropping in again.
frostwolf, thanks you, kind of you. I will send you a PM soon with all the details I nned to know for the participation of your Character in my story. The sawmill BATs and lots will be out within a month. I just got a new computer and still haven't installed BAT yet, plus right nowe I am working hard on the GRV II Project to get it fully updated before the end of the month. Then I will have some of my BATs tweaked and uploaded.
CabraBuitre, I also sent you a PM with some questions about your character of the Winding River Project.

Probably by the end of this weekend, I will have another update ready, if I don't have too many people (friends and relatives) visiting me this weekend, then I'll leave for Vancouver for a week, to see some of the Olympics.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Nexis4Jersey on February 12, 2010, 11:05:18 PM
Nice updates  :thumbsup:, i always enjoy reading your text.

~Corey
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on February 15, 2010, 11:08:31 AM
Looks very similar but I think you should re plop the pit theatre.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 15, 2010, 01:25:19 PM
Nexis4Jersey, glad to see you again.

danielcote, Well you're right, I forgot the theater, but the one beside I couldn't find , so I made a Postoffice out of it. Good spot for it, right on Mainstreet.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg69.imageshack.us%2Fimg69%2F9167%2Flakesteadcountynewdownt.jpg&hash=eafdb459f06a5c1b4134475f4ae377955ab9a29e)


Give me a couple of days to make the next update, bigger than I thought.....oufff....20 pics.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 15, 2010, 06:49:54 PM
Cool, I love big updates! ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on February 15, 2010, 06:56:39 PM
The bigger the better!

                 -Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 15, 2010, 08:08:54 PM
Well folks, if you love big updates , you will be pleased with this 20 picture update that is coming up next. Wow, it took me three days to create it. But first here are some of the news' headlines. It will take another day for the pictures to be ready. Enjoy.... ;)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg19.imageshack.us%2Fimg19%2F1198%2F1accessnewsupdate35.png&hash=e877752a507357072e41dc634280373d94a193fc)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 16, 2010, 03:49:30 AM
Looks good Fred! I like that you are getting color now in the paper. ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on February 16, 2010, 05:11:03 PM
Not bad! I like your newspapers because of how they respect what "time" it is. Very nice.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on February 16, 2010, 05:27:18 PM
Nice paper, Fred!

         -Jordan
:thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 16, 2010, 06:11:33 PM
Thanks, glad you liked the paper, sorry it wasn't what it should be, (qualitywise) but it was done quite quickly.

Here it is....

Update 35....July 1964


The early summer season is dry sofar and it hasn't rained for 3 weeks now. Farmers are worrying about their crops lacking moisture to grow and ripen before fall arrives. The Mayor worries about the dam and the Fingerlake which brings the town's power and water.
He gathered his counselors and specialists and rented a bus from Kohler to bring them directly to the dam and have a serious talk about the possible problem of lacking water for the turbines and our tubs. The new bus brought them right on the shore and later underground where the meters were read.
The blue line shows the n0rmal waterlevel height. Now the stairs end before the level. A good time to do some renovating of the shores.

pic1
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Highway 15 has reached the swamps in the Sterling County. Although plans were to go right over the swamps, new ground stability testing has proved wrong. Moving sands, wet grounds and unstable rocks and groundlayers will become a serious problem for our Highway construction leaders, Mike Allheimer and Alex Puto.
The highway ended right on Sterling's road which lead to the Rundi Sterling's properties in the Stoke mountain chain.

pic2
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Two first pillars were build only a week ago and already both of them have moved. Failure to build a long bridge over this will either lead the highway around the swamps or ask for a better solution which may cost millions....John Gabber is discouraged.

pic3
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Terry Slye took a ride into Sterling's land last week and what he saw amazed him. No closed gate nor a sign to stop him. Trees of great sizes and quality in industrial quantities. These larchtrees are just ideal for wooden bridge building, barns etc and in high demand these years. He must talk to the Billionaire and get him into the lumber buissness.
Now this is what Slye could use, since the highway Loggers have stopped logging for awhile until they know exactly where they're going, besides the prairies to come have not much forests.

pic4
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«« " I didn't believe what I saw in the Global Newspapers this morning," Mayor Bartlett told his counselors in a special meeting, " We havn't even been contacted about this yet. Imagine the Government has decided to detour our highway around the town and install the rails where there are roads now. Can tell someone tell me how that is possible? I thought the town was ours to administrate. This cannot be happening."»»
Mayor Bartlett was angry, very angry that he wasn't informed about this plan. Even though in the Global Newspapers it said that it were the first planspeculations for detouring the highway and nothing was decided yet, the Mayor blew once more his hat off.

I don't know if it is final or what, but the Highway 15 will contour the town in one way or another. Only 5 years old and already being destroyed is not quite what the population would appreciate. The highway is simply in the way to other things, they say, rails have been decided to lead to Sodom and Bluebay south and the town of Access can now rebuild and enlargen it's downtown. It became too dangerous to have a highway smack in the middle of downtown anyways.
The blue lines show the contouring of the highway and the green show the rails. There will be a short extension of Highway 15 down to the airport.
The Project will be given to Gabber Inc.

pic5
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The rails will take the place of the highway, a lot less wider though. There are no plans for the moment to have a Station in Access, since no passenger trains travel through this line and a commercial station is already being planned in Valmore north, near the Slye sawmill. This project will cost a few million simoleons, but it will give Access more space to handle it's downtown, which has become somehow stuck with traffic.
The Government said that Access was simply in the path for the rails to head south to Sodom and Bluebay and nothing was planned specially for Access at this moment.
That will be a mess again in our town, Mayor Bartlett thinks, when the railconstruction arrives.

pic6
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Close to the airport, Guy Racsan officially opened one of his Jet-engine Manufacturing hangars with 80+ workers to begin with and another 200 will follow by the beginning of next year. This will again boost the population of Access with new workerfamilies arriving with the hope to find a steady, easy and good paying job. Access' economy is rising.
Mr Racsan is also planning to introduce another Motorcompany in the region, this time for cars. This is planned for 1970 only, in six years to be precise.

pic7
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In the Mayor's office things are boiling up. Steven Bartlett admits that a 28,000 town is quite harder to manage than a big village in his last three years of mayoring. The town is growing too rapidly, almost by the hundreds every week.
Every service and utility is starting to miss out on something. We need another and bigger Elementary school and a seconday school is now becoming a necessity also, plus the fire station is way too small with its two firefighters. First things first and the firestation somehow is on the primary list. A new one is planned with 3 fire engines and 8 firefighters in all. The only problem is to find a suitable spot to have it build, but probably not that difficult if the highway is to be destroyed. Maybe a good thing afterall, Mayor Bartlett now thinks.

pic8
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Talking about services and utilities, the Religious Commission of Lakestead also is running out of room in that little church on Mainstreet, and have decided to build a bigger and newer one right in the middle of the residential area behind the shoppingmall and the little pond that used to be the only place Access had its water from.

pic9
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The death of our first Mayor in Access, Mr Paul Hubert , was announced today in the Dr Goober's Clinic. Mr Hubert died of a heart attack at the age of 59. He was the Mayor of Access Junction from the beginning until Steven Bartlett was elected. Paul lived in Access out in the country, just ouside of town towards the west and was deliverd by his wife this morning to the clinic where finally his soul left his body. Mayor Bartlett decided to honour him with a statue in his name somewhere.

pic10
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Neth Wellington has done it again. He built the biggest building in Access Center yet, a modern Office block of 7 floors. Renting most of it for other offices, some governmental, he placed his Clubfood Mainoffice on the first floor. This building is totally modern with fire extinguishers on each floor and even has an automatic heat and smoke detecting sprinkler system. Sofar Wellington is the most important buissness man, besides Guy Racsan, in Access, contributing a servive of food and alimentation to the population. With his Bake n' Sale on Mainstreet, his foodstore in the shoppingmall, he will add a bigger Clubfood Oulet soon. The only thing missing at the moment is the right place for it.
Miss Barby White didn't enjoy the idea that the mayor's office allowed such abig building near her Biergarten, keeping the sun away in the evening from her lovely outside terrace.

Also on this picture below we can clearly see how the downtown of Access Center is coming along in its 8 years of existance.
Here we can see that the church is way too small for the town's population, that the elementary school also is too small, that the Mayor's office (townhall if we may name it so) is getting somewhat ridicilous looking for a town this size and that the crossing of highway is getting dangerous.

pic11
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Here's a closer look at this marvelously modern 7 story high Office building of Mr Wellington. The smaller building just in front of the big Office was bought out by welligton only last week, he needed the space for parking.

pic12
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I just drove by the dam last night and had a spectacular view of it during late evening, and I couldn't resist to take a picture and show it.

pic13
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Since 2 years more and more Hobbyfarmers of all ages have invaded the Valmore are of Access. Many retired folks keep a small amount of animals or plant some fruits and veggies for their pleasure of being in the country and an extra revenue. Not only the town has more immigrants but the country side also is being used..

pic14
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Those people are offering their farmingproducts to the public on Beacon's Rd near the highway intersection in the former Valmore area under a small tent. Here you can buy fruits and vegetables and even some eggs and canned meatproducts on Saturdays and Sundays only.

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Finally Miss Barby's Hotel project was started. It will be only a few yards away from the beach that belongs to Barby also. This will be the first Vacational Hotel in Access. Miss White bought a larger terrain here only a year ago when she heard that most of the surrounding lake properties were in the matter of being bought out by investing Companies. 45 Acres of natural land will give Barby enough space for the Hotel but also for some natural lforests, a private beach and a large ornamental garden. Maybe she is also planning to build a home here later, since the appartment in Access is getting a little too noisy for her.

pic16
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This is Valmore lake, now belonging like Valmore South to Access Center. You can see Barby's property from here, just make a square around her construction site, holding all the trees.

pic17
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The second murder in the Region of the Winding River has been committed last night. Mr Andy Dubold, the foreman of the Logging department resposable for the highway construction, was found stabbed several times and left for death beteen 2 homes out in the countryside. Mr Dubold died on the way to the Clinic in Access. The murder weapon was found nearby as if left behind in a hurry and fingerprints will surely become the main importance of this case. No one has seen or heard anything how he was killed or transported to this area, about 4 kilometers north of Access in Valmore.
It didn't take long for the curious people to drive by. Not only will the local Police take care of this case, but also the Regional Sherriff(dark blue car) will have its part. The Access Policechief (black car) and the Coroner (yellow van) were the first to arrive on scene.
John Gabber isn't happy at all, having known Dubold for several years. He used to work for John's father, Henry.

pic18
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It was earlier this week when the old Hydroplane of John Gabber lost a tailwing. Ol' Rusty Rover, as John called his plane, gave John a last difficult ride. He had to land in an emergency on the valmore lake, but lost control when touching the waters and the plane did not take minutes to sink into the depth of the lake. Intentions to retrieve the plane became impossible and Rusty Rover was left behind.
At the same while we are here over the lake, take a look at the left lower corner of the picture, where people have been bringing their garbage. If Mayor Bartlett see this he will blow his hat off once again.......

pic19
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A new face in Access is not making the Access' Police chief happy, a young fellow well known by the police in Reverant, seemed to have moved to Access. He was seen in the last 2 weeks around the downtown at late hours. Johnny B Badd was born in 1944 in Reverant and lost his parents at an early age and wherefrom he was raised as an orphelin until he ran away when he reached his 15 years old. He was later arrested several times for minor accusations such as mild drug selling, stealing food and some violence with other kids. Now 20 years old he was clean for the last two years it seems, but the Police chief of Reverant thinks that he is playing role well and has continued his minor criminal adventures without been detected. Access' chief is keeping an eye on him, but Johnny knows.....

So this was the 35th update and I hope you liked it again, more coming in a week or maybe by the next weekend. Take care 'til then.

Fred

One more thing..... Please check the picture below first and tell me what this is. I have several of these lightbluesparkling dark clouds in my city that sometimes have orange coloured sparkles coming out of it too. There are 4 or five of these scattered over the Access city tile. If yiou need better pics , let me know. I have no idea what where and why these are.....

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg194.imageshack.us%2Fimg194%2F2312%2F20lakesteadcountyfirysp.jpg&hash=b75f40d0f858caa7dd8f58786c9f545a88f5c0ad)

Thanks
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: ecoba on February 16, 2010, 06:33:20 PM
Good to see some new work out of WRP, Fred. Clad to see that the reconstruction is going well, it seems to be almost a perfect replica.

Ethan
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on February 16, 2010, 06:36:34 PM
Great update Fred! Excellent pics and great storyline! I'm sorry, but I have no idea what that thingy is, but I'm sure someone else knows.

                    -Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: RustyXL on February 16, 2010, 07:13:16 PM
Awesome new update Fred! I'm glad you could get everything back to normal after the issues with plugins. It'll be interesting to see what happens with the construction of the new rail line. It looks like it would make a good commuter rail line in the future.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 16, 2010, 07:42:03 PM
Looks great Fred, I have NO CLUE what that could possibly be.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on February 16, 2010, 11:21:23 PM
Looks like gunshots or something to me. Maybe Johnny B. Badd has been letting some bullets fly!

Great update, huge update, cant wait to read more. Access' downtown is certainly growing quick.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on February 17, 2010, 05:46:17 AM
No clue either. Great story and great shot of the dam too .  &apls &apls Looking forward
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on February 17, 2010, 09:34:46 AM
It's just one thing after another with that highway it seems!  At least the town is still growing nicely.  Everything looks great.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on February 17, 2010, 10:22:29 AM
I have no clue what those sparks are. Never seen them before in the game.

Nice update. I'm interested in seeing you do with the swamp. Reminds me of some of the road projects where I grew up; roads built on cliffsides, so they were constantly falling into the sea. Caltrans still hasn't figured out a way to make them stay put. ::)

I actually have a pretty good idea of what happens with the road shift thing, though I've never seen that particular problem. There's a town where I grew up where the entire town is moving south. To the north, the old town is full of abandoned, rundown buildings, while the south side has the supermarkets and the various chain stores, and all of the cars and people. It's kind of sad and kind of amazing, really. Figure that's what would happen if a highway shifted over to one side; all the new buildings would follow the highway, and the old downtown would die off. Alternatively, I'd think that the industrial district would take over the area near the rails, and the commercial district would build near the new road. Like the mayor said, it's a big mess either way.

And either way, it sounds like a whole lot of fun. ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: cubby420 on February 17, 2010, 02:52:28 PM
I'm not sure but I think I have seen something similar to that spark and smoke glitch on power line towers connected to an old, overused power plant. Someone else probably knows better than me but this looks exactly like that little animation, even to the point that it appears suspended in midair.

Beautiful shots by the way. The damn night shot and highway construction pics are really great.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 18, 2010, 06:13:00 PM
Thanks guys for the comments.
frostwolf, it will be quite a story to build the roads over these swamps and that will bring the Gabbers back for almost a year in their construction of highway 15.
BTW, where I live in Quebec/Canada, nearby is a whole town that was moved once, houses and churches and stores, all moved away for a few kilometers to make room for the enlargment of an asbestos mine. The towns are called Thetford Mines and Blacklake. That was in the sixties if I remember right. What you see below used to be a small blackish coloured lake and a town of 12K or so.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg690.imageshack.us%2Fimg690%2F106%2Fblacklake.jpg&hash=d80c2792d662047c2b90e3ce63b4c585c011e44f)

There will be a town in the WR Region later on with a mine (Iron Ore or Coal) like this and they will have some problems there too, but that is still to come in the far future, just watch for it when they establish the village of Blacklake on the other side of the valley..... ;)

cubby420, makes sense what you said, but there's a slight problem, no powerlines nearby at all. It is probably an idustrial lot that doesn't function properly, I cannot think of anything else what that thingy could be. I can't bulldoze it, nor burn or drown, it just stays there what ever I do.

I will make a small update tomorrow and another one on sunday. Busy times in Access, things are moving and the Mayor is freaking out.....losing total control... ;)


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on February 18, 2010, 09:04:59 PM
The towns looking nice but it has all 3rd class buildings. Can you add some 2nd and 1st class commercial and residential buildings again?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 18, 2010, 10:55:47 PM
Quote from: danielcote on February 18, 2010, 09:04:59 PM
The towns looking nice but it has all 3rd class buildings. Can you add some 2nd and 1st class commercial and residential buildings again?

What do you mean by 3rd, 2nd and 1st class buildings?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 19, 2010, 08:08:13 AM
Update 36 (beginning of August 1964)


This is just a little shorter but not less important update.

The rails have invaded the town. Without any warning, one morning this week big loads of trucks and heavy machinery invaded Access Center and tore away the highway to make room for the rails that need to be ready before winter comes. If you woke up and asked if you're still in the same town, don't worry, this is only temporary and the railfolks garanteed that it won't take more than 3 weeks and they're out of here. Hundreds and hundreds of new workers all over the town.  Restaurants are full every noon and small canteens are growing out of the grounds like crazy. This is a money making moment for the population of Access, excellent for the economy, like Mayor Bartlett says, but nerve wrecking for the residents.

I glued together some pics below to give you folks a fullsized view of the rail construction site. On the top you can see the highway that today ends up in a simple road, while it still goes right through downtown Access and this for at least a year before the detoured highway is being build around the town. A new highway near the airport is being build like the earlier plan showed and will re-connect to the existing highway in Valmore. We will get a closer look at this in a later update.
As you go down on the first picture you can exactly see where the highway used to be. To Mayor Bartlett, this is new planning, and that will take a few years to finalize, he thinks. Meanwhile these 1x1 lots in the middle of the town will become simple lawns or parking. As we get to the bottom, we see the first rails arriving. They're really pushing the rails.

pic1
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Now the talk in the Mayor's Office is to fill up the springpond right in the middle of town and build the new townhall on top of it. The spring will be drained and piped into the the creek just outside the town. People who live beside the pond would like to keep the pond, especially ever since it doesn't smell like cabbage anymore, others simply don't care, hey we're in the sixties, what has to be done will be done, no matter what.
Here's a sideview of that railproject, making a real big construction site for a small town like this. Talking about smalltown, Access has reached the 30,000 population mark this month. The new rails are shown on the picture below with a green line.

pic2
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The fueltanks near the construction site have become somewhat dangerous and have to be relocated. A new location was found just outside the town. A few leaks of one of the tanks were discovered only in the beginning of this week, when a Digger started leveling the ground nearby and saw the wet and oily soil that was exposed by its works wondering seriously if he struck oil. All construction activity was stopped right then until the tanks have been emptied and relocated.

pic3
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This is a part of downtown and now the question is to whether have the rails build on the right or on the left side of town (east or west). Probably the east side (left) will be preferred for eventual enlargements of the lots to 3 lots deep. The right side is already fully loaded and no additional space is either asked for or needed in the near future and a perfect lane to hold the rails. This is to the Council to decide, the Railcompany leaves these previleges to the town.

pic4
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Talks at the airport are that they need some more space for "parking" and unloading the planes. Some planes have to wait on the runway, which is getting quite annoying and dangerous. For a small town this airport is really busy, mostly bringing in parts and pieces of the highway machinery urgently needing repairing and maitenance. They also want the runway to be lengthened again, so bigger planes can land too and maybe add a small and shorter runway for those little planes that seem to pop up more often now. Som Companies have DC8's and Boeing's 707 and 720 nowadays, which have a hard time landing on this somewhat short strip.
Since hopes that the population continues to increase while many new job-bringing occasions open and taxes bring in the needed money, the project *Airport for the Seventies* was accepted by the council of Access Center. Mr Racsan, Guy's father and the former owner and founder of the airport, agreed also and is willing to help financially with a low interest loan if the town has problems to get the full amount needed for the airport renewal plan.
The mayor and the council are happy, but the population is not. They say, "bigger planes bring bigger noises". Hm.....

pic5
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There will be another update later this weekend. We will have some random pictures of the region to view, just for the fun of it, plus we start showing the places, where every one of our well known characters live nowadays, something not to miss. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on February 19, 2010, 10:21:20 AM
Thats a huge construction project! Cant wait to see what the new and improved Airport for the Seventies looks like :)

By the way, those dirt lots you use to portray the construction sites, can they be dled anywhere? I could use them in my MD.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on February 19, 2010, 10:21:47 AM
Very nice update again!!! Great work!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: cubby420 on February 19, 2010, 10:39:40 AM
I love the style of your diary and this update is a perfect example. The appearance of natural growth and development, adaptation to necessity created by that growth, and then details of construction and creation. You demonstrate a realistic process and I love that.  ;D Can't wait to see more.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 19, 2010, 11:06:43 AM
nedalezz ,if you guys find me a good, free and easy fileshare site, I will be willing to share all my lot-creations when asked for, with a link. I don't want to upload those simple construction lots to a SC4 site because they take the space away for the better BATs. ;)
Tomas Neto, thanks for visiting
cubby420, well I'm glad you like it. I always do my best to have everything shown naturally and the way it is in reality, or at least, the reality I know and live within, because some other countries it might be different. I hope you'll come back soon, I have some big construction sites coming up and what a mess in downtown yet to come. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on February 19, 2010, 11:39:42 AM
The railway is coming indeed!  That's a huge amount of construction in town there.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 19, 2010, 01:13:33 PM
Sweet job Fred. I cannot wait to see where everyone lives! ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on February 19, 2010, 01:57:16 PM
Woohoo! I get to see my house! But seriously, very nice update. I can help with airports...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on February 19, 2010, 03:54:53 PM
3rd class is poor, 2nd class is middle income and 1st class is rich.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on February 19, 2010, 03:59:47 PM
Nice update Fred! It'll be cool to see where everybody lives!

Daniel, Do you mean this:

1st class - $
2nd class - $$
3rd class - $$$

             -Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 19, 2010, 04:40:05 PM
No, Dan is right.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 19, 2010, 08:13:46 PM
Quote from: danielcote on February 19, 2010, 03:54:53 PM
3rd class is poor, 2nd class is middle income and 1st class is rich.
Ok, RCI $, RCI $$, and RCI $$$, thanks for explaining, but I cannot do much more for the moment. 80% of these lots you see in downtown are growables and you know as much as me, we cannot really control these. I have already bulldozed some many many times to get the right lots. I tried using the plopcheat, but then they get abandonned, so.....we just have to wait except them as they come.

There are some areas of Access that have more $$ and $ though, I just haven't showed them yet, but I will next time. These are out of the reach of the school and medical center, and probabl do not have water neither.
Economy is excellent in Access, therefore kinda normal to have $$$ RCI's, right?

Fred



EDIT: There will be another small update with Random pictures of the Winding River Region tomorrow or on Sunday.

Coming up next week, have a look at these headlines........

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg341.imageshack.us%2Fimg341%2F4705%2Faccesscenternewsoctober.png&hash=3209ba45a8f0ad773a296a41c66f990a91d742ee)


.......and more.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 19, 2010, 08:57:36 PM
Nice work Fred! Good that the murderer was found.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on February 20, 2010, 08:50:47 AM
Nice little update. Seems more factories are opening up in Access. They should leave poor old Johnny B. Badd alone! :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on February 20, 2010, 01:06:36 PM
Great paper Fred! Waiting eagerly for tomorrow!

                -Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 21, 2010, 09:04:29 AM
Update 37 (still in August 1964)


Ok, this is only a short update of Random Pictures that I took lately. Only to enjoy, nothing much of a story that comes along with them. I will be starting the *Where Do They Live?* Series later tonight, but there will be more than just two sets, probably 4 or maybe even 5, because they are more characters in my story than I thought....hm. And I will have two pics of each, one closeup (view 5) and one from a higher view (view 3).

I do not usually show many nightshots in my MD, the reason is simple, I don't really play with the nightscene on and I don't care much about it neither. But the Wellington building being the first bigger building in Access and being just beside the Barby's Biergarten, look so good in the night time that I just had to take a picture and show it.
Just above the two buildings is the Mainstreet of Access Center.

pic1
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Some folks in Access have started a community garden lately and I thought this would be nice to show also. These folks really love fresh veggies, but there's a small problem that comes along with it, some kids seems to sneak in somehow during the darker hours and steal some of those private crops. The Police has already started to have a car patrol around at certain hours, but without success catching the little *Racoons*. Ah, these kids today.....

pic2
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Here are some of the richer folks of Access, still living on sand or gravelroads. They have been complaining more or less about it, since taxes aren't very high because of the road, they don't really seem to push things.
Expenses in Access are rising as more and more folks, industries and commercial buissnesses arrive to town. Much more important services have to be paid first, the Mayor says, not really knowing where to turn to in the first place. There is the Educational system, followed by the Fire Protection, many other accomodaytions and of course the Townhall, that can't even hold more than 60 people.

pic3
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Close to the downtown, new appartments are rising every month, the looks of the old town is changing forever. Some of the most modern appartment buildings are being constructed in the area and many citizens are happy about it, but it is frustrating for others not being able to supply the demand. These are the sixties and the "Medieval times" are over. ;) Main street is on the left of the picture, where you see the blue truck.

pic4
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg121.imageshack.us%2Fimg121%2F6757%2F4lakesteadcountynewappa.jpg&hash=f3adee70f5217b69293c517e71e04ccdc38be6e6)

As we have spoken about it earlier, the old Access "cabbage smelling" watersource is about to be landfilled to prepare for the new location for the coming Townhall and Mayor's Office. Althoug some contraints have been made because itm seems to be the last "green spot" in town, the council voted positively for the landfill. The construction will begin early next year (1965)

pic5
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As Access grows, so does the traffic and the best way to see it is at later hours on weekdays. The highway is getting used mostly by trucks that bring the supplies for the Highway and bridge constructions further up north. Also Farming goods and some manufacturing goods from Valmore and West River new Industries are being shipped via trucks on highway 15.

pic6
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I'll be back in a few hours (later today) with the first of the Series *Where Do They Live?*

Fred

Still looking for some characters........
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on February 21, 2010, 10:57:49 AM
That's a great night shot, Fred! See ya tonight,


                         -Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: just_a_guy on February 21, 2010, 11:36:33 AM
Hey Fred! Sorry for not stopping by for a while, I blame RL. Access sure has gotten quite big and is starting to feel like a real urban center.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 21, 2010, 12:28:59 PM
Sweet stuff there Fred! I can't wait fro the new update. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on February 21, 2010, 04:10:00 PM
I like that community garden. Good that you've actually got a working one in your town; every town I've ever been in, the Community garden is an abandoned weed-choked lot three weeks after it opens.  Remember reading from a guy who used to set up a lot of these gardens that you can count on about one in five people to stick with it.

Fortunately, this is simcity, where we control our population and make them do healthy, community-oriented things whether they like it or not. ;)

I also like the rail construction. That is a whole lot of workers and mess, just like real life.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 21, 2010, 07:35:02 PM
Hey thanks folks for dropping in and leaving a comment again, that is always appreciated.
just_a_guy, don't worry, I know what RL sometimes does to you and Riichirou is not forgotten yet, something important in his life is about to happen in one of the next updates.
Driftmaster07, Alex's life is about to change....maybe a girlfriend?
frostwolf, glad to see you back here, I have sent a PM for your character's details that I need. Glad you like the Community Gardens, but staying this clean all the time depends on those Access' Sims and not me....;)...Anything can happen. I have given my Sims all their freedom they want. ::)


Where Do They Live?

This is the first of a series of Five that I will will show you in between regular updates. We will meet the individual characters, get to know them a little better, read their history and most of all, see where they dwell and live at this moment in the fall of 1964. I will show you 2 pictures of each personality and we will repeat this series again in about 20 years from now (around 1985) and see the changes of our story's characters and what they have achieved since today.

To start with I have chosen the deceased Andy Dubold, son of a farmer and original from the plains of Lakefield City. Born in 1909, he started logging at the age of 14 and has done so until he was hired for the first Highway project by the Gabber Corporation. He was then chosen as the Logger's foreman since 1953. As being the head of the Logger's department of Gabber Inc, he had the hard job to keep all the loggers inline with their job, directing and ordering them to do the best job for the Company. Lately he was found left for death in Valmore on a small sideroad. As the Regional Police took the responsability to solve the case, it only took them less than a month to find the Guilty. The case is still under investigation and has not yet gone through court. Andy was 55 at the time of his death. We will get to know the reason of his murder later.
Since 1962, the beginning more or less of Grasslake, and only 2 years later when John Gabber built the first dwelling in that area, Andy bought a small terrain close to a small and deeper bay. His love for the woods and the trees it is quite understandable to see him live in a woodenboard home right in the wilderness.
He was married to a woman named Freeda from Lakefield, but had no children. He was a tall skinny man of several trademarks and he built his home all by himself, which took him almost two years to do so. Unfortunetly he only lived 1 year at the Grasslake and today his home is for sale, since his wife returned to her family in Lakefield. Maybe someone we know will take possesion of this wonderful home one day.

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Neighbors in this part of Grasslake cannot see each other, while most of them own bigger lots and left most trees standing. A close look at Dubold's property reveils a nice home and a shed, a most quiet place to have spend his older days.

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Guy Racsan, the son of the Millionaire Mr Tony Racsan and owner of Racsan Jetengins together with KECO in Access Center near the airport, was born in 1940. Originally from Beecher Falls, the second biggest City in our Simland, he has a College degree in Motor Engineering. Guy is a quiet and somewhat shy personality who doesn't appear publically very often, just like his father Tony. He is still a bachelor, but starting to look for a homeworthy woman. Maybe he will find one in Access Center ,now that he dines at the Biergarten almost noon. Financed by his father at the time, he is really forcing things to get done on his own with his 24 years and that was the mainreason to co-operate with KECO (Kent Engineering Co) and open a subsidiary for airplane jet-engins. He only opened his Company's doors by the beginning of this year and already is hiring almost 400 people at the time. Just about to open the doors for another manufacture of Motors, he will be building automobile motors, especially for racing cars, that seem to have become a well appreciated sport in this country's bigger Cities.

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Guy lives in Grasslake also, on the most southern end of the lake, while his father is at the northern end. Surrounded by farms and forested beaches, Mr Racsan Jr lives here since 2 years, he had his home designed by the young Michael Arven, that we haven't heard of for awhile. (doing his architectural courses in the Frampton College) Guy was the second one who asked for a plan from the 16 year old Arven, after having seen what he designed for J.Gabber on Grasslake also.
He owns a beautiful 4 bedroom house with reddish terra cotta tiles as for the roof, something we don't see too often in this region.
Again, he also lives far enough from his neighbors not to be able to see them.
I suppose this is where he wants to raise his family one day, that is if his future wife will agree.

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The next individual is our well known survivor Robert Sweathers, the second world war airforce hero that was stranded here in the Wildriver region for many years without knowing where he actually was. Robert was born in Capitol City, south of here, in 1906 and used to be a fighter's pilot for the Simland Airforce. Shot down by a the enemy's forces near the coast of Simland in the war , he tried to go back inland and find a place to land without hitting the mountains or waters of the costland. He never made it, but was lucky enough to find the many marshes of the Winding River Region and bring his plane to a radical stop in these wetlands without hitting any trees. Then he started wandering around the region without even knowing where he was and since most of the region are wetlands, mountains and forests, his two years of searching ended when he decided to settle down somwhere and feed and live off the land surrounding him. Until he was fortunetly found by the first surveyors of the Highway 15 Project in 1961, somewhere what today is Valmore North.
Sweathers was kept for almost one year with the Military for health and interrogation and then released where he wanted to go back to, in Valmore North (also known as West River). There he stays today, has managed himself a selfsustaining farm that he grows vegetables and little fruit trees on, which he sells near the road to the public.
It is his way of free and worryless life.

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As we can see in the picture below, he has a little hut for selling his crops to the public on the side of the Access Road, not far from Highway 15. The Government offered him several acres to own, where he grows his crops. He kept the same hut that he built himself during the times where he was lost, but had the interior renovated and insulated to face the harsh winters of the West River region. One of Robert's daughters lives nearby closer to the bridge and one of his sons now lives in Access Center, which he greatly appreciates.
He is the son of a world war Colonel and well known Boxer and a mother who was a professional Opera singer.

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Going back to Grasslake, but to the northern part of it, we wll meet Mr Tony Racsan, the fifth richest man in Simland. Owning many Companies of engineering, production and manufacturing, Mr Racsan is the father of Guy Racsan, his only son and who we met earlier in this series. Tony is almost fully retired today and living far from the public on his immense private territory in the hills and at the northern end of the Grasslake. Both he and his son come and go visit each other by boat, being only a few kilometers away. Mr Racsan is now in his mid-sixties, born in Frampton in 1900.

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His fabulous huge home is located right on the point at the creeks intermission with the lake. Doing some gardening and canoeing with his wife Emma as a hobby and a weekly occupation, he fully enjoys the wilderness. A few years ago he had a big project in view, but we haven't heard from this since two years. Mr Racsan had some land cleared and many private roads cut through the dense forest.
Tony also had the Access Airport built in the earlier years of the town's existance, mostly for his own airplane but also to help out the town's access to the exterior. The airport was sold for a low price to the town in 1961. He is now financing the enlargements of the landingstrips.
Tony has about 20 people that work on his property year 'round, most of them living in the Grasslake village. He is a tall fellow with a distinct accent, being generous and very pliable.

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And here is the last of our characters for today. Johnny B. Badd, born in Reverant in 1945, a midsized town in the northwest of Simland. He lost both of his parents at the early age of 3 for some reason and was raised in a orphanage until he turned 15, when he ran away and ever since living off the streets. Having been arrested several times in Reverant in the last years for dealing illegal drugs and merchandises, he disappeared last year and re-appeared here in Access Center. The Access Police Chief has been kept a serious eye on him, trying to find out where this person came from and see his life's history. About a week ago he falsely arrested Johnny boy, but that is still a story to come in the next regular update. We don't know much about Johnny Beadley Badd yet, the 19 year old appears all of sudden and is gone the next minute like a shadow in a dark street. We know, so does the Police Chief, that he doesn't seem to be working anywhere, but still is able to pay his small 2 room appartment in Access Valmore in the lesser appreciated  residential area of Access. How he does it is still a mystery.

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Young Badd has been seen with several girls hanging out late at night at the big appartment block near his place, some say that he is prostituting these  young ladies, but again, like all smalltown talks and rumours, it isn't confirmed by anyone. He is traveling everyday's evening to downtown Access by hitchhiking and returns home late at night. No one has ever seen him in the daytime hours, as if he is a vampirelike creature.....

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Now, that was our first of the *Who lives where*   series. I will post others, always mentioning 5 or 6 of our story's characters in between the regular updates here and there. Have a nice week and leave a comment, bad or good, right below. ;) Hope you like this series to get to know our folks in the Winding River Region.

Fred

Want to become a part of my MD/CJ? I'm still looking for more characters, pm me.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on February 22, 2010, 03:06:20 AM
Great update! I really enjoyed meeting all the characters, and it certainly brings the MD to life on a whole new level.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 22, 2010, 03:53:16 AM
Nice job! Im looking forward to the next one for sure!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on February 22, 2010, 04:06:25 AM
can't wait to find out how my man is getting on, sorry i have been lurking for so long fred, your work is still as fantastic as always. i will endeavour to post here more frequently in the future.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on February 22, 2010, 04:24:00 AM
Very nice update again!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on February 22, 2010, 08:47:29 AM
Great update!  Love how the shorelines look.  You've got some very cool looking custom homes here!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 22, 2010, 10:19:55 AM
nedalezz, hope you like Johnny's  Beginning sofar. ;) Badd little boy and somehow knows how to stay out of trouble like a weasel.
Driftmaster07, Alex is about to have major changes in his llife...to read in the next update.
mightygoose, You haven't missed much of your character, Michael Arven, since he is still in College in Frampten, but soon.... Sorry, I can't say more. :-X
Tomas Neto, thanks for dropping a note, glad you're still around.
Battlecat, thanks, oh geeez, I got over 800 customlots and BATs, haven't really counted them yet. I suppose I must upload a few one day.

I fogot to add the "Who Lives Where" Map, which I will update everytime I show new MD-members. Have a nice week now.

Fred

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Edit: I just saw the Plugins Region name on top of the picture (I forgot to erase). I called the region when I created it *Silver River Valley*, because I wanted to start a story about a Silvermining community first, but then changed my mind and called the region *The Winding River Region* and the MD is called * The Winding River Projet*. It is about the developpment of a whole region, silver-mining included. Confused?, don't be, go back and read the above again..... ;)
bye
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on February 22, 2010, 02:06:44 PM
I like it, its different. I like different. :P
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on February 22, 2010, 03:43:50 PM
Cool stories there, Fred! And great map! Looking forward to the next one ;D!

              -Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: ecoba on February 22, 2010, 06:09:13 PM
Some very interesting stories going on here in WRP, Fred. I'm really enjoying them.
Also, it's nice to see that Access Centre is growing up nicely.

Ethan
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on February 22, 2010, 07:46:42 PM
so it will be a good 5-7 months before he gets his first contract  ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on February 24, 2010, 01:37:18 PM
Glad to see you still working on this Freddy V ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on February 24, 2010, 05:27:09 PM
Ah ha. So that is what happened to Johnny's evil twin brother. Johnny B Badd moved to Winding River. 

Thanks for the memory, Fred. A lot of the yougsters reading this diary probably didn't catch the reference but I have Chuck Berry's golden oldie on my ipod. 

His mother told him "Someday you will be a man,
And you will be the leader of a big old band.
Many people coming from miles around
To hear you play your music when the sun go down
Maybe someday your name will be in lights
Saying Johnny B. Goode tonight."

Go Go
Go Johnny. Go Johnny, Go


I've got that tune on my brain now ...  ::)   

- Jim


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 24, 2010, 08:59:26 PM
Quote from: jmyers2043 on February 24, 2010, 05:27:09 PM
Ah ha. So that is what happened to Johnny's evil twin brother. Johnny B Badd moved to Winding River. 
I've got that tune on my brain now ...  ::)   

- Jim


Oh my.....lol....Now You got me singing that song in my mind.....lol.
The idea for the name and the "owner" of its WRP character is nedalezz, but the story is me who writes it and you can be sure some passes will remind you of someone..... ;)

Thanks folks for leaving a comment and mightygoose, maybe before that, there might be an emergency for a young architect just out of school.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on February 24, 2010, 09:06:52 PM
Yay you brought the pit back! Now I can watch movies again!!!  ;D Thanx.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 25, 2010, 03:12:54 PM
BTW....Playing now at the
ACCESS PIT  
this weekend.....not to miss!


Hall One...

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Hall Two...

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Enjoy...

Fred

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on February 25, 2010, 04:12:30 PM
LOL! 1964 baby. Awesome little update :)

Go Johnny, Go ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on February 25, 2010, 06:51:20 PM
So much has been happening. I like the "Who Lives Where" segment. It's good to put some big picture context to all the close up shots there are. Glad to see plans are shaping up for the rail depot near the sawmill. Getting things to market that much faster will really allow things to pick up speed. Question though, outside of clearing land for development/highway construction, what lumber sources has the Slye mill been focusing on (aside from the potential Sterling deal of course)? Nice updates Fred, and nice touch with the movie posters there.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 25, 2010, 08:34:20 PM
Quote from: threestooges on February 25, 2010, 06:51:20 PM
Question though, outside of clearing land for development/highway construction, what lumber sources has the Slye mill been focusing on (aside from the potential Sterling deal of course)?
-Matt

Matt,
It is all in tomorrow's (friday) update. I have a good part (constructions completely finished) reserved for Slye's sawmill, now called: *           *, oupppsss......sorry that was written with invisible ink, have to wait 'til tomorrow. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: soulchaser on February 26, 2010, 01:17:44 AM
Great updates recently. I love all the realism.

One ticket for Hall 2, please. I have some time while waiting for GRV II ;).
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 26, 2010, 11:28:13 AM
soulchaser....I know, believe me I do....Lynn has left the project because of the death of her mother and that doesn't help me neither. I will have some news and explaining and partial judging on GRV II in a week. I am honestly sorry for all that delay. Thanks.
Let's do some serious MD'ing now...

Update 39  (november 1964)

Fall is here and the Bridge project in Phlox County is not finished yet, as planned and wished for by John Gabber. Quite dissapointed of his Project Leaders, he has put Alex Puto under a lot of stress, making him promiss to finish the other half of the bridge before spring 1965, or else.... as he said. Sometimes some rough handling needs to be done to get the needed results, as Gabber puts it. His brother Gary didn't like the way he handles his employees and reported the act to their father Henry, who still has most of the control of the Gabber firm.
««" I freaking gave them 2 years with the full budget and all the workers they needed", John Gabber explained himself on the Company's Board meeting, " but they only have done half of it and that darn half isn't even finalized yet.
So what am I suppose to think? If the incompetence of these gents have seriously delayed the contract, then I as the responsable have to do something about it, no?. Let's not forget that we need that bridge urgently, because we have to get all the materials needed to start the bridge in Stoke over that darn swamp. I am pushed around by the Government and my superiors, so I'll push my workers until it is done".
Finally he added after a few seconds of total silence in the meeting room: "So be it and don't waste any time now and get to work.", looking seriously at Alex and Mike.»»

Ouff, that was hard to digest, Alex told Mike while they were leaving the mainoffice in Frampton. Back in Phlox, everything seemed to be just fine, the Mainbridge was built, not ready, but still, they will be able to bring the trucks over to the island at least.
And that gave Mr Puto the idea of the month. Hey, why not build the roadbridge right away, it will be faster and surely be ready before January. Gabber will be able to send his truckloads to the swampbridge and start working on it, while we will finish the Highway Bridge later. We have to build that roadbridge anyways before the end of next year, so let's do it. Switching around the timedelays a little might help to advance the rest.
Having seriously thought about it and realizing that the plan for that bridge is already ready and most of the materials have arrived on the banks of the river, he called up Gabber a few days later and explained his new glorious plan, which was greatfully accepted by the Big Boss. As long as he can get the trucks to the Stoke area to build the freaking swampbridge, he said to Alex. Make it happen before April. Relieved, Puto went back to Phlox and to get started on the smaller roadbridge before the end of the month.

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On the west end of the bridge some homes started to appear, mostly people that have a small cantine here for the workers, or those that work on the bridge since the beginning wanted to stay nearby. A little village (Community) they call Phloxtown has been founded by this settlergroup. They even asked for the official registration at the Regional Administration Office in Capitol City.

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On the island also some new homes are starting to get build by those new landowners. The whole island was divided in many small lots and publically offered for sale in 1961, way before the road got close to this area, but most of the little expensive lots have been sold, some by major investors who are promoting the area as of now and others who simply wanted to invest their surplus income.
The temporary harbour will soon be dismantled and the land was already sold to a young Lady from Frampton, which she would like to transform into a boatrental of some kind one day. Katie Panskyy, only 19, has a little history of boats behind her, being born on a boat at high seas.[color]

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Many changes have been made at the Slye' sawmill, now officially called *North-Eastern Timberlog Inc*, or simply, the *North-Eastern*. Most of the constructions have finally ended and all departments are under full production. Since Slye is still mostly living in Frampton, he hired some stable and trustworthy folks to handle the sawmill while he's gone.
Slye had a seawall built on his riverbanks, solid and quite large, maybe he is up to something in the future. As you can see, Terry's sawmill is busy as ever, even though most of the Highway loggers are on a long vacation for the winter, waiting for a road to be reaching the other side of the swamps in Stoke, but timber and logs are coming in from everywhere anyways, mostly Grasslake and former Valmore North, where logging has picked up with the coming urge to build homes and roads in these areas. Also the decision to build the rails towards Bluebay through this region has been a benefit to the mill.

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What is to be done with all that sawdust that the sawmill produces, is one of the major concerns of the North-Eastern. At the moment most of it is shipped free of charge to Cattle and Hogfarmers aroung the region, but somehow hogs and cows have enough by now and piles of sawdust grow in every empty corner possible. They even had a whole shed filled with it in the beginning of the piling.
Slye thought about dumping it into the river and let nature take care of it, but then again he stopped, thinking of the residents of the Winding River Outlet further down, which might not appreciate the floating sawdust in their town of Belleminton just at the river's mouth. There has to be another way of getting rid these yellow slow rotting hills.

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Still in Phlox, we have a closer look at the beginning of a new small community which they call themselves Phloxtown. It all started with some temporary cantines for the bridge and Highway workers, which extented into small restaurants and more and more are being build. Maybe this is the beginning of a bigger town, you never know. Citizens have even officially asked to recognize this community as an independant municipality.

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Now back to Access-Valmore which seems to have unbelievable problems with the traffic these days. Eversince the rails invaded the town and tore down the highway 15 and have it detoured into smaller streets, Mayor Steven Bartless is furious about the situation in Vamore and Access. The population can't wait for the highway south of Access that is supposed to turn around the town to be finished. They say, it will not be before March 1964, still another 4 months of traffic blocks like in a big city. Railers are not welcome in Access anymore it seems, blaming the whole messin town on them.

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In Access City, Mr Guy Racsan finally got his green light and the contract for manufacturing automobile motors for Kent Triton, a big Racecar Company out east. Guy hoping to swell this company into a Mega manufacture together with KECO subsidy one day, he is quite ambitious to make it happen. Meanwhile, his new addition is hiring some more 400 workers, which he applies for in different surrounding towns and cities. Mayor Bartlett told Racsan to slow down a little with inviting all these workers to Access, because he won't be able to find room for all these new settlers, especially now where services are hard to satisfy.

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In "Downtown" Access and mostly in the Mayor's office, things and subjects are hot. Always coming back to the urgent need of new and better services, the mayor asks for help before going nuts. Here are some of the demands which are most urgently needed:
1.  Bigger Elementary School (under construction)
2.  Highschool Secondary School (under construction)
3.  Need for a serious used water drainage system before the river turns brown (under consideration)
4.  New and a bigger Church (already constructed)
5.  Mayor's office and Meeting or Townhall (under planning)
6.  Lowering taxes from 8.5 to 8.0 % as promissed during his election (under serious consideration)
7.  Highway construction around the town (under construction)
8.  Improvement of the health system (under consideration)
9.  Displacement of the industrial Park to an outside site of Access (on hold)
10. Parks for relaxation and amusement and a bigger and better Soccerfield (considering the possibilities)
11. A new and better Emergency and Firedepartment (planning)
12. Improving the law enforcement with at least three more Policecars and 6 more officers. (under consideration)
13. Garbage problem to be solved with more access to bigger terrain. (on hold and not so important)
14. Planning what to do with the empty spaces left behind by the rail company. (on hold)
15. Asphalt streets in the residential areas (thinking about and calculating the costs)

So you can easily see what our beloved Mayor is going through at this moment. He is lucky though because the whole council stands behind him, helping out and encouraging to fill the tasks.

Tom Kohler of which we haven't heard from since awhile, must have fallen in love, everyone thinks, disappearing thursday's afternoon and coming back only on Tuesdays. Somehow he is neglecting a little his Taxi buissness and his newly formed Busline. Hiring people to take care of buissness doesn't make it profitable, every successful buissness needs its owner most of the time and especially in the beginning, and since a couple of months 26 year old Kohler is gone most of the time, leaving the tasks to the hired help.
We only know that Tom met a girl in Frampton I believe, her name is Jessica Parker (not related to Sarah Jessica Parker born in 1965), and that he spends a lot of time with her in Frampton. Is this becoming serious buissness?
As we can see on the picture below, the "Railers" have finished their ironroad through town and have left behind only some empty, but perfectly leveled dirt lots.
Now it is up to the municipality to take care of this strip of bareground which is already being used as parking, storage and dumping. Kohler's manager bought four of these lots, neighboring the Bus and Gaz station. If it was for himself or for Tom Kohler's Company, we don't know yet. Kohler isn't around anyways and he probably doesn't even know that the rails arrived in Access.

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Just like we talked about earlier in this update, Access has its problems with the truck traffic also, because of the detour of Highway 15 through smaller roads and streets. Residents of some areas about had it and complain to the office by the dozens. Mayor Bartlett tries to make them understand that it will still last 3 months and to hold on until then. Nothing can be changed without costing too much to the town anyways. The Town's budget already has reached its upper limits of spending.
Just to show, here's a picture of the real game situation:

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But then again, the council goes ahead with an older project which is not important at all at the moment and cleans out the land planned for commercial building. Here, they say, Government  and other offices will once be build, having asked for such a location since last year.
Government offices like official finances (taxes, income, welfare etc), also Lawoffices and a Regional Courthouse, Offices for permits and licences, other civil offices, banks and financial institutions, a bigger and more modern Postal office, a library later on and many more not to mention the smaller Insurance and other useful officespaces.
Council says that they will rent the land and eventually buy the buildings also to be rented, which could bring them a fair interesting amount of yearly income. 

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As we know the construction of the church was planned since last year and construction was finally undertaken in the beginning of the year. Since religion may calm down the anger of the population as thought by the Mayor and council, they decided to go ahead with this project in the first place. *Now that they are occupied praying for a better life, the citizens will give us the time to continue the quest of the demands in peace. May God bless them,* the Mayor says.
This church is a lot bigger than the small cornerchurch on Mainstreet, finally giving enough space for all the believers.

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Before we go on, let's make another serious point here to be sure that we understand each other rightful. If I mention religion and talk about it, it is meant only generally. Whether God, Gods or godlike Beings are to you as in the many religions such as Islam, Catholic, Protestant, Buddhism, Evangelism, Hinduism, Judism, Christianity, ethnic religions or I don't know all the other religions, movements and believes that exist, these are to me in this Mayor's diary only of general interests. All religions will be the same within these pages of my Sims and Simworld. I will respect every and any religion of humanity irl, but will never talk about any other than a "simmlish" and fictious religion here. Now that this is clear, let's go on.......


Some have it, others don't. Outrageous they call it, Unacceptable say others and some say it's Excruciating. How in the world is it possible to live in a beautiful and clean neighborhood with gravel and sandyroads, while the richest man in Access (owner of the shopping Center) has asphalt in front of his home only. Even his neighbor, the owner of the big Tool Manufacturing plant in Access (see industrial Park) can't get over it. * He must be quite a good and *special* friend of the Governor*....some say with a hidden sarcastic smile.
Actually, this was only an experiment of finding out if the sands of the gravel roads will be good enough to serve as the base for the upcoming asphalting within the residential limits of Access Center next year. That it happened in front of the richest man's home in Access is only a coincidence, they say....Pffffff... you can hear the population say.

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After the plans were finished and accepted by the council, the decision to start with the new Elementary school received its permission. The older school on Dovestreet, just behind the Olsen's Pub, needed to be totally replaced for more room and better structure. The old school was built so quickly that the main wooden beams supporting the building are barely holding it up. Besides the space needed to house all those kids in Access has reached its limits last year. It is time to go ahead towards the future and not look back, the heck with the spendings, the Mayor always say.
Yeah,.....all that spending of the godd ol' taxmoney....what a year this is, and 1965 will not be better, many think.

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Still with the educational subject, here is the old school, still standing until the new one is ready, but eventually it will be torn down to make room for the new Highschool, which will arrive in Access by the end of the next year. Another good taxsimoleon spent for the citizens. Kids and teenagers for the secondary education still have to travel the 45 minute ride to Sandom's Highschool for one more year.

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A contractor from Beecherfalls has bought the three appartmentblocks on Baker's road that we see here below squared in green. These older buildings are to be torn down next spring and rebuild as newer, more modern Housings will take the place. The rumours are that the new building will beat the height of the Wellington Office building near the shopping Center. A new record in Access? Has the competition of higher buildings started?
Already other investors and contractors are looking for possibilities to renew some of the old face of Access's downtown, including Nethaniel Wellington as he still searches for the best spot for his new Clubfoods outlet. Dove and Henson street, just a block away, are in the target.

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Only being considered by the council at this moment, the Gabber park needs a lift-up, mentioned by a lot of folks, especially by the soccerlovers. The Soccergames have extended into a big sport here in Access, and its yearly exiting tournement has reached the clubs of Bluebay , Sodom and even Lakefield lately.
The big park given as a gift to the town by John Gabber 5 years ago has a lot of possibilities to create something spectacular for a small town, as the Soccer Organizer puts it. It is big enough to do all kinds of things. John Gabber was informed of the Park's possible renewal project and he totally agreed with the idea. He even said that he will double the budget's amount that the town is willing to spend for this project with a donation from Gabber Inc. The Soccer Association really appreciated his offer, hoping that the mayor will put in a good and big bag of gold.

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It happened late on last saturday afternoon. Johnny B. Badd was talking to a fellow already well known by the Police on the sidewalk near the old theater, when all of sudden a whole squadron of Policecars came in from all directions. Johnny and the other fellow were instantly arrested.
Since more than a week, the Police Chief of Access has Johnny in his eyes, having him surveyed 24 hrs a day as long as he is in the town's limits. Johnny is being suspected to deal unlegal drugs as he has done before in his former hometown, and as the Police Chief likes to keep his town as clean as possible, he is willing to do anything to do so. Feeling or knowing that something was about to happen sooner or later, all four Policecars with a dozen of officers were alarmed for a possible arrest later that day.
It was quite spectacular for a small town to see their impressive Policeforce at action. It was quick and without any problems. Even the Mayor (black car) came to see what happened.
It's just like in the movies, some people said to the local newspaper's owner, Joe Bean.
Once in the Police Office, the interogation of the two supects started while other Police officers were still looking for the proof of illegal drugs out on the street.
Then it came to mind that the chief reacted maybe too quickly. Misery has happened. The arrest was immediatly cancelled by Johnny's lawyer who wanted solid proof of the accusation. None could have been given, no drugs were found on either's person and none on or near the street either. All was found is some Baseball cards that both suspect said to have exchanged. What a mess for the chief. So, they were exchanging cards....hm.....
The news was already out in the printing and on sale the next day, when the kids were released. Now the Police chief has to face the Mayor's office and do a good and solid explanation of his doing and then most probably make a public excuse to both falsely Accused.
Some say that this will be the story of the year and remembered for a long time.

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And to finsih this update, here is the 1964 detailed transportation map of the town of Access Center.

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Hope this was an interesting update to you, if you liked it, leave a comment, I have seen many lurkers, yet a few that left a word. Don't be shy, I don't bite. ;)

There will be an update of the *Where Do They Live* this weekend, be there as we will see, where the Gabbers live, also Wellington, Slye and a new fellow that has just got out of the army and already saved a life in Phlox.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on February 26, 2010, 01:16:56 PM
Crazy huge update there!  Amazing growth throughout the region, but particularly in that lumber mill!  You've done a great job on the custom lots for that one!

Great job on the story as well.  All sorts of interesting problems are developing, but I see that the budget is running quite thin!  That's going to make life interesting.  Always looking forward to your next update.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 26, 2010, 01:32:53 PM
Nice job! I cannot wait for the newest update!

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on February 26, 2010, 01:39:01 PM
Beautiful, I love arch bridges. That area by the airport could be a good place for industry or commercial development, if you ask me ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on February 27, 2010, 11:00:53 AM
I love how you build up these towns!  I don't really ever do it this way... But I'm not much of an MD maker either!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on February 27, 2010, 11:28:01 AM
 &apls &apls Very excellent A lot of action with the arrestation and all the devellopement. Nice sawdust lot too. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on February 27, 2010, 03:41:38 PM
That is one huuuuuge update! Guess it looks like Johnny has just become Access' resident badboy and celebrity of the year, lol.

Access growth seems to be too fast for the good ol' mayor to keep up with; more funding or perhaps a bigger administration with more departments with specific jobs needed?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on February 28, 2010, 07:33:47 AM
Figured it was only a matter of time before a town grew up around the end of the bridge, especially considering how close it is to the sawmill. I'd imagine most of the workers at the mill would move there so as to cut down on the commute.

I like the problems with the bridge; very realistic, and very realistic response; things aren't getting done, so management takes it out on labor, ignoring things like weather, topography, and so forth.

This is coming along very nicely.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 28, 2010, 02:49:08 PM
Thanks Battlecat, btw there are 19 "Nexis" sawmill lots and BATs involved in this set.
Driftmaster, hope you don't mind your character being pushed around by Gabber these days....
Cyclone1001, excellent idea, I kinda thought so too, but it's the Mayor who decides.... ;)
CabraBuitre, I enjoy building cities this way, while playing it's almost like you become a part of the town...
kimcar, glad you liked the "crime scene" and the sawdust piles....;)
nedalezz, bigger administration with more departments, as you said is proabably the only way for the Mayor to get out of his daily stress handling the ever fastgrowing town.
frostwolf, glad you like it, and the problems of the bridge aren't over yet, I think. Yet the worst is still to come I heard.....Rumours are that Alex just about had it and......

Thanks for coming by and leave a comment, so many views and lurkers that hide behind the curtains, why? Come out and announce yourself and make this a busy MD.....You must know by now that I don't bite and almost respond to all comments.

Here's the list of our Members and characters again:

Nethaniel Wellington........danielcote
Riichirou Takahaschi.......just_a_guy
Guy Racsan..................NASCAR_GUY
Michael Arven...............mightygoose
Johnny B.Badd..............nedalezz
George and Pat Westwood.....CabraBuitre (not yet arrived)
Gregory Badger............frostwolf (not yet arrived)
Tom Kohler..................Rusty XL
Jordan Meadon.............canyonjumper
Diarmuid MacGormain.....The Tea Cat
Barby White.................BarbyW
Steve Gibson...............Cyclone 1001
Terry Slye...................threestooges
Alex Puto....................Driftmaster07
Charlie Gabber..............myself ;)
Harry Wormwood..........MattyFo (not yet arrived)


I still need 3 to 4 more characters, maybe the chance for some of our lurkers?

--------------------------------------------------


This is the second of the series of five of *Who Lives Where* update.

Today we will see where the headcharacters of this MD live, the Gabber Family.

Starting with John Gabber himself. Born in Bluebay, when it still was a village in 1909 and married Mary Moondall (born in 1916) in 1931, when Mary was only 15 years old. They have 5 children, John Jr (born in 1940), Vera (born in 1940), Melody-Ann (born in 1947), William (born in 1948) and of course Charlie, which we all know very well by no. (born in 1950) They live in Bluebay in a big, modern and luxurious 3-story house near the Bay of Bluebay, overlooking the Bay and Downtown of the City of Bluebay. The house is located on  Bergen Island. They own 2 acres of land there. John is the President/Partial Owner of Gabber Industries in Frampton, (a big buissness that is divided into three parts) that his father Henry established in 1910. He has finished school at the age of 13, which was very regular at that era and went to work for his father. At the age of 29 he became the Vice President of the Company and President in 1956. With his brother Gary, both control 70% of the Company today. John is more on the construction half of Gabber Inc, highways, roads, streets and other big constructions. Now working on the WRP (Winding River Project) he is busy for the next 8 years.
John is the more quieter but confronting type and says what he has to say when it is necessary, very generous and understanding (geeez, that sounds almost like me.....lol..:0)
He likes fishing and hunting and has a regular pilot permit and his beloved hydroplane (which is still on the bottom of Valmorelake btw)

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In 1961 they had a weekend home built in Grasslake on some 300 acres of land that he bought. Acouple of months later, they decided to sell their home which was not yet finished , to their friend Mike Allheimer, only to rebuild a new one on a better spot on those 300 acers. Today, in 1964, it is still not quite finished, doing most of the work by himself in his free time, but living there during the summermonths has been done for almost two years. The Home is located on the eastside of the lake on a point of sand reaching far into the lake, which gives them a whole *roundview* of Grasslake, which was the main reason why they changed ideas in 1962. The home was designed by Michael Arven, who was only 16 years old at the time.

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Now let's talk about his parents, Henry and Marlene Gabber, who also live in Bluebay, ever since both of them were born there, he in 1888 and her in 1895. Both have 3 children, John, Gary and Helena. Henry's parents were the first settlers in Bluebay and also gave it its name, meaning that the city of Bluebay is still very young, and the family owns some 1000 acres, where Henry himself added some 4000 more acres of land later and a whole island, that he slowly sold in pieces for developpment, making therefore his fortune. Today Henry and Elizabeth, who is from England, live on top of the mountain on the Bergen Island. The mountain is still Henry's private property as we can see outlined in red on the picture below. He has built his home in 1915, when John was only 6 years old and has lived there ever since.
His second son, Gary, also lives on this mountain and right beside their parents. So this time we will handle both families at the same time and save some pictures.

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In the picture below we have both Henry Gabber and his son Gary. Henry's home is older than Gary, who only copied it from his father's home, where he and his brother John grew up. Gary wanted the same style home and because they have the best view right there, Gary wanted to be part of it also. Henry didn't mind at all, having one of his sons not far from him.
Gary Gabber, 4 years younger than his brother, took some serious studies in the Frampton University. Today he is the CEO of the Gabber Inc financial and Commercial Construction department. In other words, if John needs money for his projects, he comes see Gary for it, which sometimes the demand can end up in the hands of their father, while Gary is most often restricted with his offers. But since the Road and Highway construction department of Gabber Inc is a lot bigger than the other half, father Henry never refuses the demands of John, which often go into the 10 and 10's of Million Simoleons. It's a family buissness on a big scale.
Gary is married to Jackie Melhorn since 14 years and they have only one son of 14 y.o. same age as Charlie, anmed Edward Gabber.

Both, Gary and Henry have a full view of the Bluebay, the island's town and the downtown city in all its splendance, surrounded by mature forests. Their private road is almost 1 kilometer long, winding up the hill, sometimes very steeply. From his bedroom window, Henry Gabber can see John's home down at the bay.

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Barby White, the owner of the Biergarten right in downtown Access, lives just outside the town in the countryside, completely surrounded by farms. Her home is simple but somehow luxurious inside. Born in 1912, she is today 52 years old. She had a few buissnesses in Frampton, where she came from, but after having seen the Access area in the beginning, she sold everything there only to move into Access, buying the older Corner restaurant of Lucy, who was murdered shortly after Barby bought it. Miss Barby is about to open the first Hotel in this region on the beaches of the Valmore Lake soon, which is supposed to be a relaxing place for those who need a good vacation.
As a well known buissness woman, Miss White has many more plans in her head, thinking of different and better occasions to invest her money.
She lives on a smaller hill overviewing the fields of the farms neighboring the town of Access.

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Now let's have a look at Neth's home. Nethaniel Joseph Wellington, another well known buissness man, born in Bluebay, but started his buissness in Capitol City after having finished his studies at the famous buissness college, from where he moved his store to Access some years ago. His first store is the Bake n' Sale on Mainstreet, where he also had built his home, a 3 story appartment block, red of colour, after the older home burnt down during the renovation. Most of the people who work for him live there also. Nethaniel has the "Penthouse", as he calls it so, the third floor overlooking the small downtown. Born in 1928, he is now 36 years old and still not married, having not enough time to go find the "perfect wife", as he puts it.
Lately he had the first Office building built, where he also rents several offices to other buissnesses, but also keeps his Main-office now. This building is the tallest building in Access for the moment, as we have seen it build only a few months ago. We can also see it on the second picture below.
Now Mr Wellington is about to open his second Clubfood store in Access. He shut down the first one a couple of month ago, only to re-open a much larger version in the next few months and now he is looking for the ideal location, and if I heard right, he has just about found it, not yet having mentioned it publically though. Wellington is thinking big, planning carefully his future ahead of his time and having made several plans already, like opening another Bake n' Sale in Westriver, where a small village has reached it's 800th citizens already.

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And back to Grasslake. We remember from above that John Gabber sold his first weekend home there, while it was still under construction, because he found a better location for his dream-wekkend home. It was sold to his longtime old friend, Mike Allheimer, the Project Manager of Gabber's Construction department. Mike is the one man John can count on all the time. Only a few years younger than John, now 48 years old, he is something like the right hand of John. Mike studied in Bluebay, where he was born and works for the Gabber family way before John took over the buissness. Both Him and John have been going fishing and hunting together and both are loving the sport of Soccer.
Mike is married to Liza vanHove for 20 years, a girl from Holland, and they don't have any children, a choice both decided so. They used to live in Bluebay on the Mimic River until John offered his newly built home to Mike for very little simoleons. When Mike and Liza saw the place on the almost empty Grasslake at the time, both fell in love and accepted the generous offer, where they live since 2 year. Situated on the tip of a little peninsula, their home is opposite of the same small bay where Guy Racsan lives. A quiet neighborhood, that was all they wanted. Mike hasn't met Guy yet, but heard a lot about him.

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And a last picture of the whole Grasslake area to show the Racsan, the late Dubold, Gabber and the Allheimer properties and which shows most of the Grasslake wealthy citizens and also a small part of the Grasslake Village growing slowly on the far right and being divided by the Access Road. The Dubold Property is for sale now for a very high price and only two people that we know of have the possibility to do so, unfortunetly Nethaniel Wellington does not like to live on the side of a lake and Barby White has other plans to invest her money at the moment. Who knows , maybe one of our known characters one day will end up here.......Do You know?

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That's it again, having seen the homes of 6 of our Winding River's famous Citizens. Hope you enjoyed it again.

I will bring you another 5 of our character's homes in a few days (1 or 2) and then a little pause, while I have to upload the long waiting updates of my other thread, the GRV II Challenge.

Have a nice week now.;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: emgmod on February 28, 2010, 06:57:54 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on February 28, 2010, 02:49:08 PM
I still need 3 to 4 more characters, maybe the chance for some of our lurkers?
Oh hello there. I'll join, once I know what to do to join.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 28, 2010, 09:11:51 PM
Quote from: emgmod on February 28, 2010, 06:57:54 PM
Oh hello there. I'll join, once I know what to do to join.

Welcome to the Winding River Project, I sent you a PM that explains what I need to know. I forgot to tell you, if you want special buildings to be used for your character during his/her lifetime in the region, just send me why, what for and a link.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on March 01, 2010, 03:32:12 AM
interesting i didn't realise the Gabber family had such large holdings, fascinating reading fred.

john
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on March 01, 2010, 06:00:21 AM
COUNT ME IN FRED!!!!!  I know I am a lurker :P I've yet to comment because, I have accually been reading this MD from the start!   &apls Terrific story FRED!!!  In a weird way this story has accually inspired me a little, and makes we want to start a small town on a small lake in Western Ontario! :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on March 01, 2010, 09:39:53 AM
That's a huge number of custom lots, it's really developing into an amazing custom set!

Great set of shots, nice to see where another group of characters are living! 
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 01, 2010, 09:59:22 AM
mightygoose, I have mentioned it way before, probably somewhere in the beginning, but never shown that the Gabbers have a lot of landin Bluebay and now in the Winding River Valley also.

MattyFo, Thanks, and welcome to WRP, I have sent you a PM with all the info I need to get your character in my story on the right track. Please no architects nor Engineers, Thanks.

Battlecat, Glad you like the *who lives Where* addition to the story.


The Minister of Welfare affairs, the Minister of Regional Developments and the Prime Minister of Simland announced their arrivel to Access in the next year to see if they would invest a lot of money and time in the region to get it going.

All the Mayors are freaking out, and Mayor Bartlett is about to have his first heart attack.  
««"We need to get everything in order and organized and show them what the region is capable of", Mayor Bartlett told the other 6 Mayors of the region, " we cannot afford to be refused the budget they will want to invest in our region. Let's clean up and build everything we need to please them. We have 9 months."»»
Expect some crazy growing of some parts of the region before these gentlemen arrive for an inspection in July 1965. Will they be able to prove them that the region is the best place they could find for new developpments?

We'll see this in the next update in about a week and a half or two weeks. There will be another *Who lives where* update this week and after I have some updating on my GRV II Challenge thread to do first.

Have a nice week and thanks for the comments.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on March 01, 2010, 04:25:26 PM
This is great! Thanx. Some suggestions are to build a ski resort from Pegs ski stuff from the STEX, because I love skiing and I'd also love to see a ski resort here some time. Also the parking lot behind the bake sale building, It used to have trees and a fence so if you can can you add at least the trees back. I would appreciate it since it makes it seem more private and homey.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 01, 2010, 08:40:45 PM
danielcote,

the skiing resort isn't for now, maybe not for quite awhile, no mountains have been reached yet and that can take awhile, but I will consider it.
About your fence and trees behind the Bake n' Sale, I can't do much at the moment, since this is a growlot and when it was accidently destroyed earlier together with all my other lots, it grew back like this, maybe a second version of the lot.
I will try to get it back, but don't promiss anything.


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on March 02, 2010, 08:00:50 PM
look in land marks because I have that same building and theres a growable and a plop able so maybe you can edit the plop able version.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 02, 2010, 11:20:11 PM
Quote from: danielcote on March 02, 2010, 08:00:50 PM
look in land marks because I have that same building and theres a growable and a plop able so maybe you can edit the plop able version.

Ok, I will download it again if it contains LM's, because mine are only growables. Thanks for letting me know. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 06, 2010, 07:47:47 AM
*Who lives Where*

Third of a set of Five.

The first visit today is the home of Gregory Badger, we haven't even met him yet. Greg is a soldier, working for the Simarmy here at the Government enclosured area in West River. He comes here every two weeks taking over a young officers job for seven days, only to return to Bluebay after, where he's from and still lives, back to his armybase.
Born in 1942, 22 years old at the moment, he had a rough childhood, been pushed from one Fosterhome to another several times. He seeked the family he never had in the army and joined very early. Today he is a Sergeant in the Paranormal Investigation Service and that is probably the reason why he works at the army enclosure in West River.
His rough and tough looks do not reveil that he is actually somewhat of a fanatic to grow vegetable gardens and he loves Nature and general gardening, but at the moment he does not have any space to do so.
He lives in Bluebay about the opposite of the John Gabber Residence, in a small first floor appartment and thinks of buying himself a small piece of land in West River or Phlox, that he started to love so much.

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Not owning a car, young Badger, travels by train to the armybase at the end of the city and from there to work in Westriver with the daily army-helicopter. Luckily a trainstation is only a few steps from his appartment.
Not much more is known of Gregory yet, so let's keep an eye on him for awhile and see what he's up to.

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The next target is our already well known Terry S. Slye from Phlox. Terry is the owner of the North-Eastern Timber Sawmill in Phlox. He is a good friend of John Gabber and Mike Allheimer, which he meets each friday afternoon for a beer or two at the Biergarten in Access. He was born in Bluebay also in 1939, that makes him the only 25 years old, and owning the biggest hiring private Company in the Winding River region. As we remember he came to the area with building a Company in his mind and 2,000 Simoleons in his pockets, and he received a lot of help from John Gabber who started the sawmill with him in Access. Today he is the only owner, the President and Manager of the logcutting Company, which is hiring a total of 480 workers fulltime and up to 600 in more busier times. His final products of beams and planks go mainly to Frampton by truck, where he lives today, but he wants the use of the rails one day, now that they're in town, and deliver his goods everywhere possible on the map and beyond.
Slye has built himself a small home in Phlox, just about at the entrance ofand beside his office the sawmil, where he stays during the times he spends in the region.

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Only lately Slye has finished all the construction on his new sawmill that he moved from Access to here. Last fall he experienced a Forest fire that almost destroyed his sawmill and home, luckily for him the rain had it stopped only a few feet in front of the first buildings. Terry didn't like the experience of the useless firedepartment of Access, who almost took all day to arrive and combat the fire with one hose only and he decided to build himself his own firedepartment earlier next year, just before the next dry season.
After every friday's meeting with Gabber, Allheimer and others, he disappears to Frampton to his real home until Tuesdays, when he usually returns to the mill.

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Slye's real home is in Frampton, the biggest City north of the Winding River Region, situated on the mighty Bell River. There he lives close to his small downtown office where he sells all the finished woodpieces he produces in Phlox. His customers are mostly big Construction Companies and some furniture Manufacturers. He lives on the 10th floor of an older gigantic appartment block, but keeping up with paying two homes and only having started his buissness, he doesn't want anymore financial problems, especially now where things seem to go very well.

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At his age is not married and doesn't seem to have the time for it neither, building up his small empire very surely but with care. He is the kind of fellow that takes his time to listen to the people that surround him and that is why so many workers just love their job with him, and because they know that Terry will be there for them when times get rougher. When he transferred his sawmill to Phlox from Access Junction, he only had his own workers do the job, not to have them on unemplyment for one day. " It is always the people first"  he says, one more reason why also John Gabber likes the young fellow.

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The little kid, Diarmuid MacGormain, we haven't heart of very much lately, is the next one on the list to visit. The reason we don't hear from him too often is that he is gone with a small group of friends, spending a month on a big adn wild island in the Winding River for a session of survival. They should return about next week, before the cold air brings the frost and snow.
Diar, as friends call him, is the best friend of our little Charlie, John Gabber's son. Born in Highfield in the Grand River Valley, he and his father Ristead and mother Finula moved out as quickly as they could when the rebels took over half of the region. His Dad has heard about good work in the Winding River Region, who was much more stable at the time. Diar was 11 when he arrived and is now 15, born in 1949. His father started to work for the Gabber Inc Construction Company as a simple labourer first, somewhere on the highway 15, until he was transferred to the offices working as a Quantity Surveyor, which take care of the expenses, costs etc of the highway construction site.
They rented a small older house in Access on Mainstreet and Dad has been saving money ever since he is in the offices of Gabber Inc, to buy a house somewhere in Access one day. Diar loves biking and camping and that is why he was the first to agree to this expedition he went on with Charlie and Jordan Meaden and some others. He also plays for the Junior Soccer team in Access and has become quite a star there.

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Little MacGormain goes to school in Sodom with all the other teenagers that frequent the highschool and he can't wait for the Access Highschool to be build later this spring, although it will probably be his last year in school. After he will be leaving for Lakefield to study buissness Management in the Goodworthington College. He will probably be followed by his friend Charlie who also thinks about taking these courses.

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Now let's have a look at the home of our president and journalist of the Access Center Tribune. Johann Behan, more known as Joe Bean, lives on the third floor of his Printing Office Building. Born in 1929 in Lakefield, now 35 years old, he bought this house five years ago, when he started the Local Newspaper.  

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A small skinny type of guy, a little nervous and twitchy, he makes the ideal journalist for the town. He has 2 people working for him on the press, which is on the first floor of the same building. Just shortly he did some updating on his printing machines and now they can print in colour, as we have seen in the last edition. Joe has big dreams , maybe start a bigtown newspaper one day or even a monthly Magazine of some kind like the popular *Popular Mechanics* magazine that everyone seems to be buying these days.

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The building that Mr Bean Owns, is one of the first ones that was built in Access, still in very good condition. It has also now inherited a small terrain where the highway once was, a perfect place to maybe build an add-on one day.

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Alex Puto is the Chief Engineer of the Bridge building site in Phlox, we know that by now. He just lately was a little harrassed by his big Boss John Gabber because they are a little too slow as planned. Alex was born in Frampton and finished his College and University there also. He has a masters degree in engineering of structural buildings and bridges. Mr Puto still lives in Frampton though, his home appartment is there, but he also has a small appartment out here in Access, which he uses more and more often to be as close as possible to his work. Just before starting his work for Gabber, he used to also live in the Keys (Florida,USA) for a short time, having started to love boating as a passtime.
His home in Access is just behind the Gabberpark in one of the older buildings of Access.

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Alex, now 30 years old, is still not married, probably because of the very little free time he has. His appartment in Access being very close to the Gabber park, he started to enjoy to see the weekly soccergames that are held there regulary during the summermonths. Wishing that he could go back to the Keys during the wintermonths, he dreams of boating, but since three years the bridge construction does not stop and not allow him to spend frr time boating, especially now, since the delai of the bridge is getting bigger and bigger with each hour.
He loves it here in Access though, especially in the area where he lives now, quiet and clean, hardly no traffic and trees all around.

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In his homecity, Frampton, he lives in a big appartment on the 7th floor of a big high wealth appartment block with a tenniscourt just below. With his income he could build himself a nice home anywhere, but again I guess free time for this is a major factor again, which he doesn't have at the moment or maybe it is a choice he has and doesn't like to own his own home.

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In the picture below it will give you a good idea of the part of the city Alex Puto lives in. It is Highway 15 that we see right below his place, and it is somewhere there where the new highway 15 that goes through the Winding River Region will attach one day.
Seeing and hearing so much of Frampton lately, I guess we will have to take a serious tour of the 2.2 Million downtown one day in another update.

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And here is the updated picture of the Access area with all our character's homes....

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...the Frampton area , to see the Frampton members of our characters live....

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Ok, that's it again, I will be gone (on another forum) for a week or so, have to do the updates for the GRVII Challenge, so you folks have all the time needed to leave lots and lots of comments. ;) I'll be around to check though.

Have a nice weekend and don't do what I wouldn't do, ok? ;)

Fred



Characters from the Winding River Story:

Nethaniel Wellington.......danielcote
Riichirou Takahaschi.......just_a_guy
Guy Racsan..................NASCAR_GUY
Michael Arven...............mightygoose
Johnny B.Badd..............nedalezz
George and Pat Westwood.....CabraBuitre (not yet arrived)
Gregory Badger............frostwolf (not yet arrived)
Tom Kohler..................Rusty XL
Jordan Meadon.............canyonjumper
Diarmuid MacGormain.....The Tea Cat
Barby White.................BarbyW
Steve Gibson...............Cyclone 1001
Terry Slye...................threestooges
Alex Puto....................Driftmaster07
Charlie Gabber..............myself ;)
Harry Wormwood..........MattyFo (not yet arrived)
Charles M. Johnson.......emgmod (not yet arrived)

Other (secondary) characters from our members above:

Mr Tony Racsan..............................GuyRacsan's father
Ristead and Finula MacGormain...........Diarmuid's Parents
Jerry Meaden..................................Jordan Meaden's father
Michael and Kathryn Westwood..........Westwood Twin's parents


And the characters that I have added to the story:

Richard Welder..............Outfitter in Phlox
John Gabber..................CEO  of the Constructionhalf of Gabber Inc
John Gabber Jr, Vera, Melody-Ann, William,Charlie, Mary Moondall.....
John Gabber's family
Gary Gabber (wife Jackie Melhorn).....CEO of the Financial Half of Gabber Inc and John's brother
Mike Allheimer (wife Liza vanHove)....Project Manager of Gabber Inc
Henry Gabber (wife Marlene)......Gabber's parents
Andy Dubold................Former Foreman
July Olsen....................Ray's daughter and owner of the Olsen Pub
Robert Sweathers.........WWII pilot
Johann Beahan(JoeBean).....Access Tribune Owner
Paul Hubert................1st Mayor of Access
Steven Bartlett...........2nd Mayor of Access
Lucy.........................First terrain owner and founder of Access
Rundi Sterling.............Richest man in Simland
Adrien McCoy..............Environmentalist

...and some other minor ones that either only pass through the region and yet to come.


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on March 06, 2010, 11:18:01 AM
You take interactive to a whole new level...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on March 06, 2010, 11:54:58 AM
Wow, really a very big and fantastic update!!! Great work again!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on March 06, 2010, 01:36:33 PM
Access looks great, its fun reading about all these characters, you certainly dont leave any detail without mention. Great update.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on March 06, 2010, 04:55:01 PM
Very nice! I love the info on my character! You always do an exceptional job on the "Where do They Live" series!

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on March 06, 2010, 07:25:43 PM
Excellent update! So many details to remember ;D! Eagerly awaiting more!

          Your friend, Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: scott1964 on March 06, 2010, 09:21:59 PM
Nice update, can I get in on this.  :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on March 07, 2010, 05:38:21 AM
 &apls &aplsGreat update . You do a big job to do a MD like it . All these characters make you busy  ;D Have fun :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 07, 2010, 06:44:07 AM
Quote from: scott1964 on March 06, 2010, 09:21:59 PM
Nice update, can I get in on this.  :D


scott1964, I sent you a PM with the details for your character in WRP, had some serious problem sending it to you, so you might have a few copies of that....;)...if so, sorry.


Thanks for dropping in Cyclone, Tomas, nedalezz, KoV Liberty and Canyonjumper.

kimcar, yes, it is quite a job to keep track of them all. I got lotsa papers and notes all over my computer....lol ;)

Have a nice sunday
Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on March 07, 2010, 11:00:07 AM
Sergeant, huh? I figured Gregory wouldn't make buck private. Shows what I know. ;)

Looks good so far, Fred. Looking forward to seeing what you do with this. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on March 07, 2010, 11:00:52 AM
fantastic work it is great reading about all the characters involved.... it reminds me why i am doing the same with my journal...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 10, 2010, 08:10:07 AM
Small Update 41a

Even though it is very hard for Mayor Steven Bartlett to keep up with all the demands and necessities the town needs these days, he was able to add a small personal touch to the welcome visitors to the town. Four signs were displayed at each entrance of the town. The cost for those signs were absorbed by the taxes of the commercial sectors.
««" To encourage the commerces of our region, we need to be inviting to strangers and visitors. A welcome sign surely helps this matter. In October next year, 1965, we were selected to present the Annual Commerce Exposition (ACE) of Simland and besides beautifying the town and commerces , we also have to build a warehouselike building where the interior expositions can be held. Why not build a new Arena at the same time which will fill 2 holes with one load." Mayor Bartlett stated at his monthly speech at the townhall,"The council and I have decided to go ahead with this project. The location will be on the grounds near the National Museum in Access Valmore and the costs will be absorbed by donations from the commerces and a substantial governmental subsidy that I was able to get from the Governor.
Commerces are blooming in Access, which is excellent for our citizens, bringing us services, accomodations and jobs."»»

...and Mayor Bartlett has made his point again.

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True, commerces are growing out of the ground like weeds and downtown Access seems to have problems finding enough space for them. Big commerce projects also have been planned, buissness men like Nethaniel Wellington is about to give us a bigger Clubfoods Outlet, a Cardealer also is arriving to Access and investors from Beecherfalls are thinking about constructing another shopping center more in the Access/ Valmore area, and finally Tom Kohler has announced to build a Bus-terminal with a small hall of specialized boutiques.
Access is growing Big Times....

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For the third year in a row, the Access Construction Players won the Regional Soccercup of 1964. Next year, four more clubs, including the powerful clubs from Lakefield and from the Capitol will join the regional play, meaning more people will come and assist the annual competition. Maybe it is time to improve the Gabber Park and it's soccerfield, the Mayor thinks.

pic3
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Just a small update before you all fall asleep.;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on March 10, 2010, 09:31:28 AM
Very cool entrance sign there!  Also, another very neat edition of where they live that I missed as well.  I really love the lumber mill, I know I've said that a lot, but it really bears repeating!  Looks to me like you could put together a fairly extensive modular sawmill pack with what you've got there!   

Always looking forward to the next update! 
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on March 10, 2010, 12:11:41 PM
Loved the little update. Access certainly is growing very fast, and the commerce can only be good for the local economy.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on March 10, 2010, 03:32:00 PM
great little update!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on March 10, 2010, 03:42:52 PM
Great little sign, Fred! Looking forward to the rest of this update ;D

             Your friend, Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on March 10, 2010, 03:49:32 PM
Very nice update!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on March 10, 2010, 06:10:19 PM
 :thumbsup: Nice soccer field action . Congrats Acces Center  ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: cubby420 on March 10, 2010, 06:52:44 PM
Great work! I love your updates (even the small ones) for the planning and forethought demonstrated. Love the sign too and little touches like that add a great deal.

I hate to drag you back to the past, but I have a nagging question. Back in update 39 pic 12 and 13, there is a red (gray or blue in pic 13) building, presumably residential, that has staircase terraces up the back with multiple floors. Any clue where I could find that? Its a pretty cool building.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on March 10, 2010, 06:53:46 PM
Nice work. ;) I like all updates here. :)

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 10, 2010, 08:46:10 PM
Quote from: cubby420 on March 10, 2010, 06:52:44 PM
Great work! I love your updates (even the small ones) for the planning and forethought demonstrated. Love the sign too and little touches like that add a great deal.

I hate to drag you back to the past, but I have a nagging question. Back in update 39 pic 12 and 13, there is a red (gray or blue in pic 13) building, presumably residential, that has staircase terraces up the back with multiple floors. Any clue where I could find that? Its a pretty cool building.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg38.imageshack.us%2Fimg38%2F6798%2F675666.png&hash=479cc8909582210398c9c9db53d55ec32c1ef705)

To be honest cubby420, I have no idea where these are from, all I know that they exist in 4 or 5 different colours. I have a Pluginsfolder of more than 14 Gb at the moment and I honestly cannot remember what I have where they're from or what they're called.
But, maybe someone here will be able to help you. I will query the building the next time I go play and let you know the name. With that you may make a search on the STEX or LEX, one of the two that probably holds this model.
All I know now is that they are R$$ and growable.


Thanks folks for commenting.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on March 11, 2010, 09:30:28 AM
Great little update Fred!!  But I do have one concern,  I am all for the expansion of Gabber Park but there are 2 homes north of the field?  I would hate for these people to lose their homes over this  :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 11, 2010, 01:17:05 PM
Quote from: MattyFo on March 11, 2010, 09:30:28 AM
Great little update Fred!!  But I do have one concern,  I am all for the expansion of Gabber Park but there are 2 homes north of the field?  I would hate for these people to lose their homes over this  :D

Glad you had this concern about the two homes west of the Gabberpark.

Well, I gave the matter to the council and they took your suggestion into consideration and came up with the following, which will be studied in the next months:
Down south, just on the Town's limits is a big lot (12x9) just laying there totally abandonned between some residentials and the rails and north by the newly planned Commercial Center for 1966 and south by some farmland. (see picture below). No one would like to have a home close by because of the train. It was once kept for a possible industrial Park, but since they are about to change the existing industrial park close to the airport area, this lot comes somewhat handy just intime for the newly planned Soccerfield, leaving the existing Gabberpark free for a children's park with sandplayboxes and slides. I am sure that John Gabber would agree with this also.
This way, the two houses west of the Gabberpark will be saved.
The townhall will not change its size,(2x2) except for taking two lots that once belonged to Highway 15.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg389.imageshack.us%2Fimg389%2F1293%2Flakesteadsoccerfield1.jpg&hash=12b40c3ed93731b08bb03e202db986c311c95c48)

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Now concerning the model that cubby420 asked about, I querried it and came up with this picture below, but a search on the LEX and STEX did not result in anything. Hope we have someone here who can tell where this set is from, if not, PM me with your e-mail address and I will try to find it in my pluginsfolder for you. ;)

Fred

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Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on March 11, 2010, 02:27:58 PM
Nice! Wheres the train station going to go?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 11, 2010, 05:46:16 PM
Trainstation?.....What trainstation?
As you know this rail is a commercial line only, no passenger trains are yet to expect and there will be one Freight station in Phlox, T.S.Slye is taking care of that for his sawmill. Besides, Western Rails doesn't want to spend money for a Freight railstation in Access, because there's not enough demand for it. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: calibanX on March 11, 2010, 05:50:19 PM
Great work Fred. I love your updates. Going back a few I have to compliment you on your mill (pic 6b). You've inspired me. I may have to make a giant one as well. From your most recent update I am drawn to that sign. I would love to see more of this kind of thing released.

Take care.

Geoff
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: ecoba on March 11, 2010, 07:30:46 PM
I really like all that I have been seeing here, Fred. Access Center seems to be turning into a really sophisticated city.

Ethan
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: just_a_guy on March 12, 2010, 04:47:06 PM
Great little update Fred. Development is always nice to see.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 12, 2010, 07:18:12 PM
Thanks Geoff for the compliment. Glad that I got you inspired to make your own sawmill. Not to compete with anyone, I will upload mine one day, maybe we could use the same ground textures if you make yours to upload, just to complete each other and create some variety for sawmill lots. Most of mine can bee seen on the last picture of the sawmill, only a new (quite big) railstation and wood-loading dock will be soon seen in this MD. (btw, I can change the groundtextures if you want to use another one easily.

Glad to hear from you Ethan and just_a_guy. Thanks.


A small update is always better than none, right? So, while I don't have much time to make bigger updates, I'll just keep on bringing smaller ones. Hope you'll like them as much...

UPDATE 42 (december 1964, three weeks before Christmas)


It is just before Christmas 1964, cooler weather has arrived. Mayor Bartlett and his counsellors have been busy changing the town's face in the last months. The old Elementary school was torn down last week to make room for the new Highschool and kids are now going to school in the basement of the new church until the new Elementary school is finished, in 3 months. Also bulldozers have been clearing some land and lots for the arrival of the Governmental buildings next spring in the are designated for them.
The young fellow that likes to keep himself in the dark most of the time has come up in the last municipal meeting again complaining and stating his point of view. Adrian McCoy, the young man that once said that the garbage disposal site will bring us more problems one day than anything good, came out again and commented on the filling of the little pond in downtown that once was used to bring us the townwater. It was decided earlier by the council that it will be filled and build over, first it was said to be for the new Townhall, then to build other residentials. McCoy came up with the suggestion that it was our first natural Park and since then has been appreciated by most of the population. He said that *sometimes you can see a great heron in the water or a duck or two that stops by to get fed by the surrounding residents, but also lately someone has seen a group of goldfish in there* (can you see them?) These are maybe little things to the council, but of some importance to the Citizens of Access, he says, maybe worth considering. The water is clean now and does not smell like spoiled cabbage anymore.
The council said that they will take it under consideration and see what the public thinks about it later. Meanwhile filling the water hole has been postponed. Besides since they decided to build the new Townhall where the old one is, they have other priorities in mind.

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Access Center is changing so much that some citizens can't find themselves around anymore, if they're gone too often or for a longer period of time. Not only is the Municipal Office doing their jobs to bring the services the town needs so badly, but also private investors are constantly changing the looks of Access with either changing, adding and/or renewing the streetblocks.
Just this week, four more buildings were built on a lot where one older and more and less useless building was torn down.

pic2
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Just too bad for Mr Welligton who didn't even know about the lots being sold, it just happened too fast, because he once wanted to buy the lots right in between his big Office building and his Bake n' Sale and the Red appartment block. He didn't believe his eyes when the bulldozer arrived and tore down the old building and was told that the lots are sold. He instantly complained not being informed and told the former owner that he was ready to pay more for the lots. Too late, I guess, since a new KFC franchise arrived, the first in the region. Fast Food is now finally available in Access. I bet that this will pay itself within a year or so.
Then a new theater, making competition with The Pit. They say that they have more and better seats available and soon better and newer films.- Feel the need for a good icecream? They have the BEST, they say.....hm.....funny, they're the only ones around in the whole region......
What we see actually is the west part (of the rails) of downtown. We know by now every building on this corner, including Access' first church. Only Wellington's Bake n'Sale and the church are left of the first buildings of Access in this location, everything else came later, the theater, post-office etc.

pic3
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That was it again, small and maybe interesting.
Have a nice weekend, ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: scott1964 on March 12, 2010, 07:49:32 PM
Interesting  :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on March 12, 2010, 08:24:05 PM
Great little update, it seems like downtown Access is really developing.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on March 12, 2010, 08:36:40 PM
I liked the update! Funny how you edited the wiki in PS. :P $%Grinno$%

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: calibanX on March 12, 2010, 10:41:42 PM
Excellent Fred. I love the wiki of Harland Sanders KFC. I hope those kids get their school soon so they can get out of the basement of that church.

Take care.

Geoff
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on March 13, 2010, 07:54:40 AM
Nice. I like that the downtown aria is getting better!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on March 13, 2010, 05:11:56 PM
I'm glad to year those two homes will not be affected by the new Soccer Field!!  I like how downtown Access is developing into a very realistic center!


-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on March 13, 2010, 08:22:56 PM
Great update, Fred! Access sure is developing ;D

         Your friend,
                        Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 13, 2010, 09:29:51 PM
Thanks for the feedback and I 'm glad you like the way the little downtown is developping and growing. By the end of this sunday I will have another small update to upload. ;)  Sorry, won't have the time to do this, be back later this week......

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on March 15, 2010, 10:18:21 AM
That water hole is a space that would be worth hanging onto as a wetland park if they're expecting this city to get large!  Great couple updates!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: armagin on March 16, 2010, 06:23:01 PM
Nice place... Ill admit I have been a major lurker here for a while. I like the inclusion of a large deal of growable content... Plopped content is too easy! That lake reminds me of something like that in my town! we go down to the lake to... do... well... stuff... and things. (don't put a cop shop nearby ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 16, 2010, 07:21:13 PM
Battlecat, maybe keeping it for a wetland Park it would be a little toosmall and not very well located, but as a regular townpark, it could be useful and appreciated.

armagin, thanks for coming forward from behind your lurker curtain, and welcome to my MD. Glad you like it. About the growables, I must add that I probably have about 80% of the town growable. Sometimes I have to destroy *growers* amny many times before I get something that looks ok in that specific spot, and then a lot of times I write the story after something grew. It makes it interesting for me also, and anyways, you never know what grows, it's always a surprize, especially with my 16K Plugin files. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 17, 2010, 07:52:03 PM
Just a teaser and something so you wouldn't get bored while I'm busy elsewhere. ;)

««" I flew over West River yesterday and you wouldn't believe what I saw," John Gabber handed over a picture to Mike, Slye and his father Henry on the usual Friday afternoon meeting at Barby's Biergarten in Access Center." Sorry the picture isn't clear. It was raining like crazy and I was about to get shot down by army helicopters when I took it."
"What?" Henry shouted, and everyone in the pub turned to him. Then he silently continued:" What the heck exactly do you mean by getting shot down by helicopters?" Everyone at the table turned to John and looked at him impatiently to get the answer.
John: " Well, I couldn't resist my curiosity and had to fly over that place they said to have found those rockskulls last year, but as I was approaching West River I was radioed by the Army to inform me that the area is closed for airtraffic and I should turn away. So I did.....but just a little to still have the chance to see the area. It was cloudy and I couldn't see nothing much but still knew though where that place was. I know the area very well by now." John gorged down his beer and continued," The Army told me again to leave and I started to see two helicopters on my left side. I told them that I am leaving and can't find the way since it is too cloudy and my instruments didn't function properly, but they didn't buy it. Then I saw these big structures on the picture, took the prepared camera and shot through the window quickly, while at the same time they told me that I would have 10 seconds to turn offward or else they will shoot me down....I'm not nuts, so I left and turned away. They even followed me for several miles before turning back. Let me tell you, those helicopters were mean looking."
" Wow" said Slye, " that surely must 've been an adventure"
"What is that thing anyways on the picture, looks like some buildings and strange towerlike structures?" Mike asked.
John: "I have nooo idea but last week Alex told me that he could see some strange looking things at the horizon from the big bridge in Phlox they're building. He never could figure what it was, but I think that he meant this."
" This is really getting stranger", Henry rubbed his nose and looked at the picture again" They're up to something more mysterious than we expect".»»

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The discussion in the Biergarten went on right into the night. Just before leaving, Mike hold back John by the shoulders and told him that he is going to get to the bottom of this. John told him not to do anything stupid, but Mike assured him not to worry and to remember that he was one of the special offense units in WWII.


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: just_a_guy on March 17, 2010, 09:45:58 PM
That last teaser was definitly interesting. I guess I had a similar idea in mind as to what the army would be doing there, but it still is a mystery as to "why in THAT place?"
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on March 18, 2010, 04:07:45 AM
Area 51/52! OMG!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on March 18, 2010, 10:42:15 AM
Fascinating.  There are mysterious things afoot!

Nice work with the photo editing!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on March 18, 2010, 11:49:31 AM
Quote from: just_a_guy on March 17, 2010, 09:45:58 PM
That last teaser was definitly interesting. I guess I had a similar idea in mind as to what the army would be doing there, but it still is a mystery as to "why in THAT place?"

Cause of the skulls that give us super human powers of course!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X8u7px_GzWQ
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on March 18, 2010, 11:56:20 AM
Now I'm really interested! Can't wait Fred!

             Your friend,
                            Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on March 18, 2010, 04:15:53 PM
Hmmm... I CANNOT WAIT!!!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on March 19, 2010, 11:36:25 AM
Anybody want to take bets on how long it's going to take before the first "alien cafe" arrives in Access, or the first "alien abductions" take place?

It's not so much what's going on at that base that interests me, but what people are going to do to profit off of it. See, I live in Nevada right now, fairly close to those bases that Cyclone mentioned, and there is a booming tourist trade from all those suckers looking for little green men, especially on the Extraterrestrial Highway. Based on what I've seen around here, now that the military in Winding River is threatening lethal force, there's going to be a huge rush of crazies to find out what's so secret, and a whole slew of conspiracy theories. There will naturally be a large boom of businessmen who are perfectly willing to give them what they want. Too bad Gregory Badger's such a straight arrow; otherwise he could make a killing off of this. ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 19, 2010, 01:59:50 PM
Well, there's a lot of conspiracy and curiosity going on here in this thread, but I was just wondering.....did I mention extraterrestrials anywhere?

haha...got ya there somehow, .....maybe there is?

anyways it is interesting to read what you can all make out of this, just like the folks in Access. :)

just_a_guy , that is indeed a good question. I wish I had an answer for this. ;)

Cyclone1001, nahhh, not quite, that already exists. Maybe area 47 ?....lol

NASCAR_Guy, you mean super *simpower*,hm..... maybe not.

frostwolf, good observation about this giving profits to the region somehow sometime.But no green little things walking around.

I'll have more tonight, the story continues........

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on March 19, 2010, 07:15:57 PM
1,346,423???
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 19, 2010, 07:19:50 PM
Quote from: Cyclone1001 on March 19, 2010, 07:15:57 PM
1,346,423???
....................?


Update 42b

.....continuing from the last update.

The next morning Slye, Mike, John and Alex Puto met at Barby's Biergarten again for lunch. This time Alex told them what he's been seeing from the big bridge in Phlox.
««" This was first seen a couple of weeks ago by one of our structure-welders on top of the bridge arch. He told us that some helicopters with strange attachements fly around some sort of towers in the distance. Although it is far away, he could see definitively that it was two big cementlike structures sticking into the sky. He said that they seem to be of immense size." Alex took a sip of coffee and looked at John", You know it somehow scares my people now. No one knows what's going on there and some people make it probably seem worse than it is, and you should see where the entrance of that area is, it's crawling with soldiers and people in white dresses, and that scares me somehow also." he continued," Then I got up there and had a look and it is true what he said, copters were transporting materials to the top of these strange towers, strange.....hey, if anyone is up to something to find out what's really going on there, count me in, ok?."
John Gabber said:, "Ok fine, maybe we'll do something stupid one day...haha...You know Alex, we.....Mike , my father and I have bought a few hundred acres not far from there towards the big river", suddenly Mike stepped on his foot under the table interupting what John was going to say, but he continued,"That is in the same district and I am surprized that they haven't yet come to us to search around, although it seems that they are everywhere." looking at Mike with a serious but confirming look.
"But I am sure that it is nothing serious or dangerous to anyone of us, they would have probably evacuated the area if it was dangerous to anyone. I personally don't think that there's nothing to worry about, unless we start seeing soldiers with gasmasks", smiling and trying to make everyone laugh.
"I don't know", Alex said" it seems they already have been everywhere, including your terrains, but they're concentrating on the Powerline's land now. Maybe we should have a look?....Hey, did you know that they actually detoured the Powerlines for more than 3 kilometers because of this?"
Mike, John and Slye shook their shoulders.
Slye: " Yeah, Wilfried from Hydro Lakefield told me than the army fully paid the expenses to make the big detour around that area, a feww million Simoleons.", a small moment of silence," I drive by there almost every day or so also", Slye continued," I have seen that there's a lot of action in the area. I also saw that ever since the access road to the west has been connected at the Highway intersection, the army goes through there instead of taking our highway as if they are avoiding the public. They come with dozens and dozens of loaded trucks from that direction every day." then he stopped and looked down for a second or two," Ok", he lifted his head and looked at everyone," I have to admit something, although I was told to shut up, but you guys keep it for yourselves, ok?.", Alex was ALL ears," I just sold 780,000 linear feet of construction wood to them and another 500,000 were ordered for May and maybe more later......"
A few seconds after total silence from all of them on their table, Mike opened his mouth,
"That is indeed a lot of wood," nodding his head for ever it seemed, "Do you know what they need it for?"
"Are you kidding? Do you seriously think I ask them? Geeeez, that Colonel is so meanlooking that my mind didn't think of asking any questions at all."
" Wow Slye..... that impresses me", John jumped in, " How did that start off ? Now you really got yourself a Big Deal with the Big Folks, I guess. Good for buissness, eh?".....smilingly continuing," Well, maybe you've got it made Slye, now you'r busy and well known", giving him the ;).

After lunch Mike asked John to come with him to the bridge and have a climb on this beautiful March springday. John agreed and with a big smile added, "Man, you're making me feel like a kid again, but let's not get caught. Imagine the first page of the Tribune saying: *The CEO and the Project Manager of Gabber Inc caught spying the Army*....hahaha....that wouldn't sound too good....haha... by the way, don't tell Mary", looking with his serious look and one lifted eyebrow at Mike. Alex jumped in the conversation: "Ohhhh nooo, you're not going anywhere without me, besides that is MY bridge." and all three left in John's new truck to Phlox.»»
... (to be continued)

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**** Let's talk about the rockskulls a little bit. Definition....This is what we know about them:
They were first discovered by a group of people that came into the area in the late 15th century. A man named William Kneerow was the leader of that expedition into the Winding River Mountain range, which today is everything from Beecherfalls down to Bluebay, and they brought back some samples of the rocks that were taken form these big skulls. These samples can still be seen at the National Museum of Simland in the Capitol City today.
Kneerow studied the area for several months and when most of his men died of  unknown causes, he and the rest of the group left the area. Kneerow than only wrote his findings of these rockskulls on paper including a map hw to get there. All the papers got somehow lost and the story ended up as a legend.

Mr Kneerow believed that these carved out rockskulls were used as some kind of a habitation for a group of people who were believed to have landed from Skandinavia long time ago, as the legend says. They also believed to have had a small village or villages in the Winding River Region thriving until one day, they all disappeared together without leaving any trace, not even one of their skeleton was found by Kneerow, as the legend tells us. These rockhuts were big enough to house a whole family and were an excellent protection against enemies and harsh weather.
Then for five hundred years it was continued to be told as a legend, since every attempt to find them afterwards were negative. In 1788 a group of 11 people including some natives and scientists left for the Winding River Region, but they never were ever heard of again. Then several months ago in 1963, two bridge workers disappeared and were found by the Powerline workers almost a year later, having left only their bones. John, Mike, Henry and little Charlie came across the huts in the late fifites and left it at that without asking too many questions. From there on we know the rest.
Oh, I forgot to say that William Kneerow and the 3 survivors of that group were said to have mysteriously disappeared 1 month after they returned from that trip.****



Something else now, just to keep the MD going and busy.....new in Access, Sardine Living, kinda......

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....and this week's edition of the Access Center Tribune for next weekend's update.

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Have a nice weekend

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on March 19, 2010, 10:00:47 PM
Great to see you're news papers rolling with the times.  ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on March 19, 2010, 11:32:45 PM
Fantastic update Fred!!!  There is definetly something very mysterious going on in The Winding River Region.


-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on March 19, 2010, 11:35:13 PM
All the mystery must add up to something good! Great work, Fred! Looking forward to more excellent storywriting ;D!
             
               Your friend,
                              Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on March 20, 2010, 05:56:42 AM
Sweet job! TS Slye made a profit on that lumber I bet, but why would the army need that much lumber...

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on March 20, 2010, 07:06:45 AM
Hmmm.... I predict someone will go see what the army is doing, and never come back. But still, storyline aside, great work!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on March 20, 2010, 07:51:11 AM
Suspence, mystery, and great story lines . All ingredients for made a good MD. Great work Fred  :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on March 20, 2010, 09:41:30 AM
This SkullRock issue is very Lost-ish, lol. A great update, a great piece of history. Maybe Johnny B. Badd would be interested into moving into those townhouses?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on March 20, 2010, 10:59:32 AM
always the real thing...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 21, 2010, 10:42:22 AM
Update 42c (last of a series of 3)

Pic0-Regionview
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.....continuing from yesterday.....

Sunday morning and everyone (Mike, John, Slye, Alex and Henry) was again at the same table at Barby's Biergarten having breakfast.

«« "Am I glad to see you all here this morning", Barby said while making the table ready for lunch, "The pilot has been asking where to find you guys."
"Pilot? What pilot?", John Gabber asked surprizingly.
" Ahh, I can't remember his name", Barby continued," it's that young fellow, that bushpilot, that flys all over the region and brings those people around the area. I think his last name is Gitzin."
"You mean Steve Gibson?", Alex asked.
Barby:" Yes, that's him, Steve Gibson. He's been around since you guys left yesterday, says he has something to show you....Now is it for Brunch or Lunch?"
"Brunch of course", Slye said. And Miss Barby left. All five looked at each other with hundreds of questions in mind.

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Yesterday Mike, John and Alex went to the bridge in Phlox, climbed up the arches and saw the top of the towers. Alex added that they have grown since Wednesday. John took hundreds of pictures with his camera it seemed before they climbed down again. No one said a thing on the way back until they came to the intersection to turn left towards Access. At the stopsign they all sat stunned in John's pickup, looking straight ahead over the forest and seeing the two tips of these immense towers only maybe half a kilometer away. Mike couldn't resist to explain in details just how he was impressed with the size of these *Cement Monsters* as he called them. When they were only about 500 yards away from the last intersection, they were passing by the army's gate. Having forgotten to act normally while driving by, everyone had their nose stuck to the windows looking at the guards, which in their turn stared back. 

"Wow, did you see this?", Slye asked," it looked like they were going to eat us. Damn I don't like this at all."
"Pssst, calm down TS, these are only soldiers, no extraterrestrials." John added, and Mike starting laughing with a sarcastic voice, " I guess the young fellow here never saw a soldier before, haha." Slye shook his head showing him that it wasn't funny at all.
The pictures below shows not only where John, Mike and Alex went climbing, but also that Alex has kept his promiss of finishing a bridge to the other side, so that traffic can cross and supply the materials that are needed for the big swamp.

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Back to the brunch at Barby's. The cafe arrived and the toasts were delivered when Gibson stumbled into the room nervously and approaching the table where everyone was sitting while looking around to see who else was in the room.
"What the buck are you doing?" Alex asked, knowing well Steve from the several trips he took with him to survey the highway's area in the Stoke area,"You look like a chased fox."
Steve sat down on the only free chair, looked behind his back and pulled out a small envelope. "Everyone in town knows about you guys and what you're up to, I don't wanna be part of this, ok?" Not knowing what he was talking about, all five nodded positively their head without saying a word, keeping their eyes and ears wide open not to miss anything that might come out of Steve's mouth again. "Yesterday while you were spying on the bridge, I was in the air with some scientists from Lakefield. I flew them over to Haley's island in the great swamp area and on the way there I had a superclear view of the towers that everyone is talking about. Usually I always get called to redirect me by the army below, but yesterday no mouse squeeked. "Again he looked behind his back and to the entrance door", I just happened to have my camera with me and I took a quick shot of what I saw without the *Einstein*s seeing me. Here...." and Steve handed over the envelope to John.
John sat there not reacting much and holding the small paper.
"Damn, open it", ordered John's father, Henry, unpatiently and John did, seeing a picture of the two towers.

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"Sorry if it is a little blurr, but I didn't clean my windows lately",Gibson added while lifting both shoulders. Then he continued: "The army has been working on this for the last four weeks, there must be hundreds of soldiers on it, because when I fly by each day, it changes so fast that I'm sometimes not sure if I'm on the right track....Keep that picture.", he added and he looked at John.
"Thanks Steve", John said,"that is excellent. Do they always let you fly by the area without harrassing you? I almost got shot down by helicopters the other day."
"Well, I fly these directions four to five times a day with all kinds and sorts of people, Scientists, Biologists, Prospectors, Surveyors and Government Officials and I have a special permit from the Government to do so. The army warns me by radio to keep off and come to close to the area, but I have never seen a helicopter. I usually turn off harshly when I get their ordering message which usually is very direct and clear." Steve Gibson explained. "Sorry guys , I have to leave now, got someone to fly to the waterfalls.", and Steve left as quickly as he came.
"Waterfalls?" asked Mike surprized, "What waterfalls, where?" No one seemd to know neither." Are there waterfalls in the valley?"

John: " I think that we are actually exagerating the whole thing here, while acting like little curious kids and making up all kinds of things, don't you think?", and he looked at everybody on the table. Barby came with the first brunch plates in her hands and saw the picture on the table: "So this is why Gitzin wanted to see you. Are you guys interested in photos of the towers?" Mike slightly nodded looking up at Barby who stood just beside him," Hey, I have seen a few photos like this last week, when a man from not around here showed them to some folks at the bar. I don't where he got them from, but they were clean and much closer and more detailed."
Everyone looked at Barby by now, " What's the matter?" Barby continued, "Is this a Top-Secret Mission or something?....Anyone more coffee?", and she left with a smile to get the other plates.
Mike: "I think John is right, we're just exagerating the whole thing. Did you see how Barby reacted to this? As if she knows about it since months and mo one seems to care about it much anyways."
"And what about that Gibson fellow", John asked, " Explain me then why he was so damn nervous handing us the picture."
" Mike couldn't help it: " Maybe.....maybe his wife is looking for him....haha." »»»

Everyone had their brunch, and slowly the conversation swang over to other subjects before the end of the meal. That day John got home late and his wife Mary started to ask questions about where he has been in the last days. Trouble with the big bridge was his answer.

In Access Center the tension in the townhall rises. Several services are unsufficient. People are complaining about how the Mayor handles the situations. What the people don't consider is that it isn't easy to organize a town that is growing by several hundreds every month. Mayor Bartlett tries to make this understand to the citizens. He needs time and also money.
Latley only three big Manufacturing Companies have installed themselves in Access, giving jobs to almost a thousand citizens. Hearing this in other cities and towns were growth is a little slower, people move to Access by he hundreds, creating a small mayoring problem.

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Now the Mayor has in mind to get both schools going and make sure that education is back on line with the population. Then he will look at the health situation, a Hospital might be the solution, but how much does this cost again? They are over the limit of acceptable when it comes to the townhall, way too small to hold even the council and all the comitees, which has become the number one emergency today.
The Elementary school was demolished and kids are still studying in the basement of the church, but hope is on the horizon. The School will be ready to move in by the end of the month. Construction of the Highschool also has begun.

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Having proposed to move the industries from close to the town to the airport last year, is already in progress and almost half of them are already on their new location. More industrials are about to move in and new terrains are being prepared for their arrival. Thinking big is all new to Mayor Bartlett and his councelers which are trying hard not to loose control over the 35,000 strong population of Access Center. I'm glad I'm not in his shoes.....
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One more subject closed is the detour of Highway 15, turning completely around the town and giving us two accesses, one in the South and another one just outside of town in the West. The traffic finally has become normal in the town itself and citizens are relieved.

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Hope that this small update was interesting again. Be back during this coming week sometime. Thanks for commenting. ;)

Fred


PS: Just to mention, if you haven't seen or heard about your character in awhile, don't worry, a full update of everyone is soon to come, there will also be some Newcomers to the town. ;)



Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on March 21, 2010, 11:25:10 AM
Fantastic update again!!!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on March 21, 2010, 12:04:01 PM
This looking really great! It's wonderful! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on March 21, 2010, 12:36:40 PM
Great update, Fred! I wouldn't want to drive in the highway in that last pic. I'm not sure my car would survive.

                 Your friend,
                                Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 21, 2010, 12:42:38 PM
Quote from: canyonjumper on March 21, 2010, 12:36:40 PM
Great update, Fred! I wouldn't want to drive in the highway in that last pic. I'm not sure my car would survive.

                 Your friend,
                                Jordan :thumbsup:


Get some *Heavy-Duty* shocks and it'll survive..... ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on March 21, 2010, 02:37:46 PM
Great little update Fred!!!! It seems as though Access has plenty of issues on it's hands  &mmm


- Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on March 21, 2010, 04:19:44 PM
Nice work! Very interesting towers you got there... ;)

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on March 21, 2010, 05:38:18 PM
superb work and i am intrigued about this secret military installation.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on March 21, 2010, 05:42:39 PM
Haha, Gitzin... Story is great, pics are great, but the DOT needs to fix that hill!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on March 21, 2010, 08:35:24 PM
Never figured there were actually any little green men running around; there aren't any in Nevada, either (Unless you count the US Forest Service Rangers :P). I just figured that Aliens would be the fastest conspiracy theory to appear, as it's the most common one around here.  ;)

Seriously, though, that is a bloody big facility. You'd think that the towers being that close to the highway, you'd be able to see them much better, if they're that big. Whatever they are, it's intriguing.

Looking good so far, especially that shiny new bridge. Looking forward to seeing that completed, and seeing even more land opened up for expansion and settlement. :thumbsup:

-FW
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: scott1964 on March 21, 2010, 10:34:30 PM
Looking good. Can't wait for my character to appear.  :P $%Grinno$%
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 22, 2010, 11:50:37 AM
Thanks for all the comments and surely pleasing me that you enjoy it all.

frostwolf, I'm surprized (lol) that you haven't got any *green little men* there with all that talk about your area, must be worldwide known I guess. ;)

Quote from: scott1964 on March 21, 2010, 10:34:30 PM
Looking good. Can't wait for my character to appear.  :P $%Grinno$%

Paul Donovan is about to arrive, maybe in the next update if I can. He will be one of the most important people implicated in finding out what's going on in West River, maybe even shine some light on it.  ;)

Have a nice week.

Fred

....found a way to make the picture clearer..... ;)

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enjoy the suspense
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on March 24, 2010, 02:58:48 AM
at first i thought it might have been the maxis yuksam (63) buildings but quite clearly it is not, this excites me further.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on March 24, 2010, 09:16:14 AM
Perhaps it is a Concentration Camp????  just throwing it out there!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on March 24, 2010, 09:23:40 AM
Interesting update, that's quite a huge structure hiding in the blur there!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on March 26, 2010, 08:14:09 AM
naw, that obviously a scientific lab!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 26, 2010, 06:22:03 PM
Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on March 26, 2010, 08:14:09 AM
naw, that obviously a scientific lab!

...makes sense....... ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on March 26, 2010, 06:42:18 PM
Doctor No Lab  $%Grinno$%
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 27, 2010, 10:29:18 PM
*Who lives Where*

Fourth of a set of Five.

We're back with our series "who lives where". Today we have 6 characters of The Winding River Project, who will help building the region.

Let's start with our Access second and present Mayor Steven Bartlett. Born in a little village in 1936 near Lakefield called Raytown, Steven studied without finishing one, all kinds of things in Frampton, even some biology, sociology, Buissness Management, Denturology and Physiology. He never knew what he really wanted. Married to his wife Helen Mainhosen, he has 2 children now, Norman and Theresa. In 1962 he moved to Access and became instantly a part of the town's new council, where at that time Paul Hubert was mayoring. One year later, Steven applied as a Mayor in the election and was chosen by the majority of the population for his spirits to make this a heavenly town one day and promissing a beautiful and safe future with his Mayorship. Now at the age of 30 years old, he is starting to get to know what mayoring is all about, having several problems to hold up with the needs of the ever so fast growing population of Access.
Only last year he had bought a nice home on Nareville street, right in front of the President of the Yarman Enterprises from Sandom.

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As we can see here, the Mayor lives almost in the backyard of the shopping Center in a more quieter  neighborhood.

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Riichirou Takahaschi, born from japanese parents in 1932 in Frampton, was the responsable to build a neighborhood in the upper half of Access for the last two years, but then all of sudden was put on hold and unemployment until a few weeks ago. Riichirou lives with his sister on the third floor of this appartment below, who works for the town as a secretary at the moment. Having come close to move to Japan last month to search for work, he was approached by Rundi Sterling and the Lakefield Housing and Development Ministry to design the newly planned town in Phlox for 1967. He was glad to get this offer and accepted it willingly. His job was garanteed for the next ten years.
Now that he is back into buissness and with an excellent pay I must say, he rehired his own sister for the mission to build a town in Phlox. As a Cityplanner and Civil Engineer, he used to job for a big construction Company in Frampton until he was offered the job in Access, which was unfortunetly only for two years, but with good pay. His parents have moved to Access prior to him and still live in the southern part of the town where his father is still working as a director for a small Manufacturing Company.
He has another sister that is currently working in Japan. While he was afraid not to be able to pay his rent for the duplex he had last year, he and his sister moved to a small appartment in the west of Access, close to the agricultural plains.
Mr Takahaschi is not married and 33 years old at the time.

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We got to know a little of Michael Arven when he designed several houses and homes on the Grasslake at the age of 16 years old, including both Gabber weekend homes. Found  and encouraged by John Gabber to continue designing homes and other structures, Mike is now studying to become an Designer/architect in the Frampton University after having earned his collegial diploma in architecture this year.
Born in Frampton in 1946, he is now 19 years old and living somewhere in Frampton (first picture below)  where he goes to College. His father lives in Bluebay (pictures 5 and 6 below), where Mike still spends most of his time when out of studies. Dad is an accountant in Bluebay for some Company that has been established a long time ago and seems to have a good income, judging by his home.
Michael' s mother died some years back and he and his little brother were and are being raised by his father and a Nanny called Lizzy. As a bigtown kid for his Parkouring around the city, Michael is well known with his favourite activities in the neighborhood, which he tries to do as much as free times allow him to do. Training to become a Master of Double Kong, young Arven can be seen on the streets and in between the buildings every weekend.

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While we are in Bluebay, I would like to mention something about the biggest News that is posted in downtown Bluebay nowadays. Industries have become sort of overflowing the southern part of the town and the Dition river that flows into the Bay is being somewhat killed by pollution. Many citizens of the town have realized that Bluebay is not always as blue as its name. They ask themselves what will it be in ten or twenty years. This is the very first time that the population has been complaining about pollution in Simland seeing hundreds of fish die every day..

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Back to "who lives where" we now get to meet the richest man in Frampton, Mr Rundi Dell Sterling. Born as an Aboriginal Native in 1902 in Frampton, Mr Sterling is now 63 years old. His father was an important inventer in the late 19th century, making his fortune with all kinds of little ideas. Rundi as the only child leaned over to investing his inherited fortune into insurance and financial matter to become the richest man in the biggest City of Simland only after a few years he took over. His ancestors used to live in the Winding River Region, where he owns thousand and thousands of acres of land. For example most of the Stoke County is in his posession and a big part of the bigger swamp region beyond Stoke also belong to him. Rundi is married since almost 40 years and has 8 children, all of which are already alone standing adults by now, married and have children of their own.
He and his wife Tyl'a live near his own Office Tower in Downtown Frampton in the penthouse suite. This building is his own also.
Now owning many Office buildings all around the Nation, many Insurance Companies and worldwide Financial Institutions, Mr Sterling has immense powers in the Simland's Senate and Government. As a fairly good, generous, but sometimes cold man, he loves horses and has several hundreds of them, some worth a little fortune on their own. He also is very, very fanatic about midieval times, having bought a few castles and their contents in Europe in the last ten years. His living room looks like it came from the 13th century.

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pic9
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Sterling's number one confidential is George Troy. He was born in 1895 in a land where people were still harrassed because of their skincolour. His black parents immigrated to Reverant (north of the Winding River region) to find peace, respect and work in the late 19th century when he was only 2 years old. As soon as he reached his 8th year, George was hired to take care of the garden of the father of Rundi Sterling, their neighbors at the time. He worked for the family ever since, meaning he is loyal to them since 62 years. Later, when Rundi took over, Mr Troy became his number 1, taking care of the farmworkers, horsetrainers, breeders, gardeners etc. He is THE Sterling foreman so to say.
George was granted to own a big piece of land on the borders of Sterling's land near Stoke where he now lives since last year when the first roads arrived. He is a kind man with a lot of wisdom and knowledge, loving nature and animals. His wife died 12 years ago and his two children are working in the cities of Simland. Mr Sterling is about to build an immense ranch nearby Stoke to gather all his horses together in one place and have a sort of Natural refuge for him build, and George is to see after it getting done. He already started working in his own garden, as he worships growing vegetables.

pic10
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg682.imageshack.us%2Fimg682%2F126%2F10northsterlingtroy.jpg&hash=4bfe539c4b6b366ff8d734b0ff44b6bf4f726649)

As we see here, George Troy lives in North Sterling in an area forested beyond our sight. These forests are mostly of medium sized Hardwoods, lesser value at the moment for logging.

pic11
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg229.imageshack.us%2Fimg229%2F4310%2F11northsterlingtroyfar.jpg&hash=f2007d708cac4baee9335ad2938432f93c3ea749)

Whenever the highway moves along the valley, every 10 kilometers or so, the Highway workers and Loggers build their own little village, which contains mostly places to rest, sleep, eat and meet. And while we are in the area I thought that we'd had a closer look at it. Here is where the workers will come after every working shift. There are 4 of these little "villages" around the highway's construction sites, moving along while it advances into the region. Most of the workers sleep here during the week instead of going home and travel many miles to get there and back every day.

pic11z
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg696.imageshack.us%2Fimg696%2F1674%2F11znorthsterlingworkers.jpg&hash=89d6b22d2597036e09bced758b514a3cffa3fbfd)

And here is the last character of our story for today's update.
Not yet been introduced and arrived, Harry Wormwood was born in New Jersey, USA in 1938 and immigrated to Sandom some years ago, just south of the Winding River region. He and his wife Maria Torregrossa just had a newborn son which they call Aldo. Harry has been working for the biggest new car dealer in Sandom for 4 years now and has in mind to open a cardealership in Access Center on his own with his 27 years, which at the moment has none of it yet. Maybe a perfect idea to make his dream come true one day. He lives near the Sandom Center in an appartment, just beside his Boss (green roofed house below in picture)

pic12
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg401.imageshack.us%2Fimg401%2F5595%2F12sandomwormwoodclose.jpg&hash=dec2e0e84dfb4458c178603a99db9bcd32c4d0d7)

Below is also shown the place where Harry works.

pic13
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg715.imageshack.us%2Fimg715%2F5015%2F13sandomwormwoodfar.jpg&hash=f9fae330bf7bd2da11dbcad4f6007fb3daf6f8fc)


Hope this was another well-ended update of the series "Who Lives Where". Only one more of this series, before we continue the story of  *The Winding River Project*.

Have a nice weekend.

Fred

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on March 28, 2010, 02:44:32 AM
YAY!!! my character finally made an apperance!!!  A little off topic, you are french canadian, yes??? You say at the end "Only one more of this series"........... &ops hopefully not I love seeing a map of where everyone lives in the region
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on March 28, 2010, 06:34:11 AM
You really know how to make a story come to life! Another fantastic update. It is great getting to know the characters and all their backstories, as well as seeing where they live.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 28, 2010, 06:45:12 AM
Quote from: MattyFo on March 28, 2010, 02:44:32 AM
YAY!!! my character finally made an apperance!!!  A little off topic, you are french canadian, yes??? You say at the end "Only one more of this series"........... &ops hopefully not I love seeing a map of where everyone lives in the region


Well, not quite french Canadian....lol....but a little more complicated. Born in Sweden from half Swedish/German father and half Hungarian/German mother, raised in Germany near Aachen (Aix-La-Chapelle) until age of 16, then lived in Inuit Country for 4 years and in French Canada (Québec) ever since. That's about how mixed my existance is.... ;), but I feel like a German *Québecois* , surtout après presque 40 ans de vie ici.
An updated map of where everyone is living is coming later today, including an index of who presents what character in the story, and then a complete map after the last of the series of "Who lives where".
After a few years into the story again, once everyone is well established (maybe in 1975) , I will bring you another series like this, but this time, showing where everyone works.
nedalezz,I think knowing the characters better right from the start will increase the intensity of the story later on when things really start to evolve. Thanks for the compliment. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on March 28, 2010, 09:23:05 AM
Nice work! Quite some family history there with ya. Looking foreward!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 28, 2010, 12:41:07 PM
Ok, here are the Maps of each Region which has some characters residing. There are four Regions which I have not yet shown and which do not have any characters yet. They are the *Buff Mountain Region* with its small city of Longlake, *Lakestead Region* with the Capitol City Lakefield, the *Winding River Outlet Region* with the town of Belleminton and last the *Meadow Region* with its town of Palamino. All can be seen or partially seen where they are located on the Regions Map below. On this General map, as I call it, all regions that I use in my Story of "The Winding River Project",  ten (10) of them, are shown exactly where they are, so you can make yourself an idea how they are connected with each other. I will try to remake this map with better details one day. This map I have used since the beginning of this MD.

generalmap
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg291.imageshack.us%2Fimg291%2F2866%2Fmapganogawrwnewhighway4.png&hash=93b01231426edb00b0a39ddc1fd932f7b7862044)

This is the *Winding River Regional Map* with Access Center and all the other small villages, where the Mainstory is told. The story is called *The Winding River Project*, project is to civilize and develop the region which should take about 75 years or so. Here live the following characters and their owners at the moment:

Robert Sweathers...........me
Gregory Badger..............frostwolf
Terry S.Slye..................threestooges
George Troy..................me
Tony Racsan.................NASCAR_Guy
Guy Racsan...................NASCAR_Guy
John Gabber Sr..............me
Andy Dubold..................me
Mike Allheimer................me
Nethaniel Wellington.......danielcote
Riichirou Takahaschi.......just_a_guy
Barby White..................BarbyW
Steven Bartlett..............me
Diar MacGormain............TheTeaCat
Johnny B. Badd..............nedalezz
Joe Bean.......................me
Alex Puto......................KoV Liberty (driftmaster07)

WRRegion
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg534.imageshack.us%2Fimg534%2F5003%2Fwrrwholiveswhereaccessm.png&hash=83c6b4a28b45589db82c5194c30d711e79e9bc3e)

This is the Beecherfalls Regional Map. It does not have any charcters yet, but because we have mentioned it several times before, I thought that I might as well show it today.

Beecherfalls
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg687.imageshack.us%2Fimg687%2F9683%2Fwrrwholiveswherebeecher.png&hash=b87be3be2314b57431a77c4d543daf945c4c1a84)

This is the famous Bluebay Region, one of the most beautiful ones. Here live the following characters:

John Gabber.................me
Gary Gabber.................me
Henry Gabber...............me
Helena Gabber.............me
Gregory Badger............frostwolf
Michael Arven..............mightygoose

Bluebay
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg522.imageshack.us%2Fimg522%2F1291%2Fwrrwholiveswherebluebay.png&hash=53983820027cea39d9782c5c15010804dc6b31d7)

This below is the big Frampton Regional map. Here live the following characters:

Rundi Sterling...............me
T.S.Slye......................threestooges
Alex Puto....................KoV Liberty (driftmaster07)
Michael Arven..............mightygoose

Frampton
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg718.imageshack.us%2Fimg718%2F598%2Fwrrwholiveswhereframpto.png&hash=26af73fafb34a482d94d7008febf81be2b4f664e)

This here is the Reverant Regional Map, another one that does not have any characters, but soon to get a few. Again, we have talked about it earlier and I thought it would be nice to show it.

Reverant
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg714.imageshack.us%2Fimg714%2F3482%2Fwrrwholiveswherereveran.png&hash=6db68ada6e19a49182f2c75aa3bebd7cdfa7fa92)

And finally here is the smaller Sandom Regional Map where for the moment only one character lives :

Harry Wormwood...........MattyFo

sandom
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg94.imageshack.us%2Fimg94%2F3721%2Fwrrwholiveswheresandomm.png&hash=89b731b03205c330e65e0d399cd425ffbd4f3f55)

If you have seen some of our characters more than once different maps, it is because they either have two homes or live at two places at the same time; more can be read in the story. I hope that I haven't forgotten anyone.....

There are still more to come in the next *Who Lives Where* Update. The following will be mentioned:

Robert Yome................me (not yet introduced)
Charles M. Johnson......emgmod
Jordan Meaden............canyonjumper
George and Patrick Westwood.......CabraBuitre
Steve Gibson..............Cyclone1001
Paul Donovan..............scott1964
Richard Welder............me
John Gabber Jr.............me
Kyle Roberts................me
Tom Kohler.................RustyXL
Adrien McCoy..............me

I will try to present them in one update, if not....well, there will still be two *Who Lives Where* updates to come.

At the end of all the character's introductions, I will show all the ten Maps that I use in our story.
Have a nice sunday and week and hopefully you enjoyed this update, it was a lot of work......lol (so to speak) ;)
The next update will have some more news of Access and its surroundings. Some astonishing pictures with new and never seen before BATs by me (Nexis)...... Later this week.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on March 28, 2010, 05:32:52 PM
Nice, very nice. I have a question, though. Is there a limit to how many characters you can have? If no, then I could think of 4-5 more people!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 28, 2010, 05:43:10 PM
Quote from: Cyclone1001 on March 28, 2010, 05:32:52 PM
Nice, very nice. I have a question, though. Is there a limit to how many characters you can have? If no, then I could think of 4-5 more people!

Well, of course somewhere there is a limit of how many characters I can handle, and I am close to that. Though there is still room for 2 or 3 more, but I would like to keep them for those regular readers and lurkers out there, if they decide to step forward and become part of the story.
I myself have a dozen or so more characters, but like I said, rather keep it for one or more of  our readers.
Thanks for the offer. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: just_a_guy on March 29, 2010, 07:41:40 AM
A great update Fred. I see my character has had hard times but getting back up is what really counts!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on March 29, 2010, 09:15:30 AM
Another great batch of updates!  I always enjoy these looks around your regions. 
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on March 29, 2010, 11:28:28 AM
superb update, great to see everything in place.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on March 29, 2010, 05:38:06 PM
Great updates, Fred! Sorry I haven't been around lately, I've been helping CSGdesign over at CSGforums. Looking forward to the last (two) "Who Lives Where" update(s)!

            Your friend,
                           Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on March 30, 2010, 10:44:38 AM
Thanks for those pictures of Frampton. It really came alive during that last update! (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frampton_Comes_Alive!)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 30, 2010, 06:48:08 PM
Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on March 30, 2010, 10:44:38 AM
Thanks for those pictures of Frampton. It really came alive during that last update! (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frampton_Comes_Alive!)

The name Frampton I took from a little village in my area, if you were wondering. (see linkie below) Sorry, the link is only in french, no one speaks english there.....lol.

Fred ;)

http://grandquebec.com/villes-quebec/frampton/
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on March 31, 2010, 08:13:10 AM
Huh, I never knew that. :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Jmouse on April 01, 2010, 03:02:52 AM
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi901.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fac213%2FBSCLEX%2FMouse%2520stuff%2Fmrbisonm.jpg&hash=bec63bb21485ece3b051476f193aed2795e2378b)

Congratulations, Fred!

Best regards,
The OSITM committee
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rooker1 on April 01, 2010, 04:30:29 AM
Hey Fred,

Congratulations on getting into OSITM for the second time, a very well deserved move indeed. &apls  I look forward to following your MD this month.

Robin  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: ecoba on April 01, 2010, 04:45:42 AM
Congragulations on your second time in OSITM, Fred. You certainly have worked very hard here recently, and you truly deserve this recognition.

Ethan  :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 01, 2010, 05:38:04 AM
Heck yeah! Enjoy your month here!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on April 01, 2010, 07:59:26 AM
Congrats Fred! I curious as to what you'll do now!

         Your friend,
                        Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on April 01, 2010, 08:13:10 AM
Congratulations on your second well deserved OSITM award! 
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on April 01, 2010, 09:24:14 AM
Congratulations on OSITM my friend!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 01, 2010, 10:13:42 AM
Wow, thanks you all. I didn't even know that it was possible to be in the OSITM twice. Thie is a great honour, thank you.

I will bring you something special this month in exchange. I will have lots of new Nexis BATs to show, some of them quite big, also the story will go into hot action as some of our characters will do something they will regret and some important updates on each town in the Winding River.
To make things even more interesting this month, we will visit in details some of our Cities surrounding the Winding River Region, Bluebay up close, Frampton and its harbour, Reverant  and Beecherfalls, but most of all we will get to see the Capital City (Lakefield), the biggest of them all, spred over 7 medium tiles at the source of the Winding River, the Loch Mess....wow.
I hope that all this will make this MD worthwhile to be in the OSITM this month.
Oh....btw....Just to give you a small teaser.....here is a closer and detailed look of one of those two mysterious towers in West River. What could these be used for?....... ()what()

Fred


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg144.imageshack.us%2Fimg144%2F2191%2F2towers2.jpg&hash=4920d02d6311f3c5dd049c6d5a5bf7a60ca8d930)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rooker1 on April 01, 2010, 10:20:42 AM
You have piqued my curiousity.
Sounds like we will be in for alot this month....I can't wait.

Robin  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on April 01, 2010, 11:04:44 AM
HMMMM...... Very interesting, the thing with the pulley system looks like it could be an elevator of sorts, perhaps a very deep mine shaft?  Maybe something very interesting was found underground?

-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on April 01, 2010, 11:26:51 AM
 &apls &apls Congrat smy friend for the OSITM. I`m not that surprise by , cause you work hard and you got an interesting CJ  :thumbsup:

Very interesting your bat  :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: penguin007 on April 01, 2010, 11:40:36 AM
Hello Neighbour!!

Well done on making it into OSITM for the 2nd time!! cant wait to see your work as usual!!

Will
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: art128 on April 01, 2010, 01:32:46 PM
Congrats, Fred ! It's great to see you here in the OSITM.

I like the last picture, great work with this (custom ?) building.

Arthur. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 01, 2010, 05:34:39 PM
No doubt I won't want to miss anything!!!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 01, 2010, 09:16:22 PM
rooker1, I surely have thought of a few things to make it very interesting. ;)

Quote from: MattyFo on April 01, 2010, 11:04:44 AM
HMMMM...... Very interesting, the thing with the pulley system looks like it could be an elevator of sorts, perhaps a very deep mine shaft?  Maybe something very interesting was found underground?
-Matt

Excellent logic you got, but could this be it?

Thanks kimcar   and penguin007

Quote from: art128 on April 01, 2010, 01:32:46 PM
Congrats, Fred ! It's great to see you here in the OSITM.

I like the last picture, great work with this (custom ?) building.

Arthur. :thumbsup:

Yes custom Nexis Bat

KoV Liberty, you better not miss anything....lol....Alex is one of those who will regret what he did.........

;) More on Easterday............  ???
Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on April 02, 2010, 01:54:14 PM
Congrats on the OSITM!

And that tower looks a lot like some kind of hoist house, except that it seems too tall. Usually, a hoist pulls ore out of the mine only as far as it needs to, and then sends it off somewhere via ore car or tram system (or other method). That looks more like some kind of primitive elevator.

Very interesting.

-FW
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 02, 2010, 07:01:25 PM
Quote from: frostwolf on April 02, 2010, 01:54:14 PM
Congrats on the OSITM!

And that tower looks a lot like some kind of hoist house, except that it seems too tall. Usually, a hoist pulls ore out of the mine only as far as it needs to, and then sends it off somewhere via ore car or tram system (or other method). That looks more like some kind of primitive elevator.

Very interesting.

-FW

hm...Hoisting what? Too tall? Maybe something tall to hoist?.....and why are there two?

Keep wondering.....anymore ideas anyone?....lol

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 02, 2010, 08:38:16 PM
Quote from: frostwolf on April 02, 2010, 01:54:14 PM
Congrats on the OSITM!

And that tower looks a lot like some kind of hoist house, except that it seems too tall. Usually, a hoist pulls ore out of the mine only as far as it needs to, and then sends it off somewhere via ore car or tram system (or other method). That looks more like some kind of primitive elevator.

Very interesting.

-FW

Maybe not a primitive elevator or hoist. If you look below it, you can see a turbine of some sort (correct me if I am wrong), and that would interfere with the cable being brought down to the ground. Overall, a very good BAT and I cannot wait to see whats going on after all this secrecy!

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on April 02, 2010, 09:51:23 PM
It looks like a hoist and a vent fan. For what I dont' know. But there are two towers involved, both connected by the walkway, that is significantly above the ground. Obviously there is a somewhat frequent need to go between the top levels of the towers without having to go down and back up. Without having seen the other tower, I'm wagering there is some significant excavation going on. Perhaps subterranian development. But then, that still doesn't explain the great height of things. By the way. Govt. agents with a briefcase full of cash buying copious amounts of lumber? That doesn't sound at all like a coverup. I have the feeling this will be quite the interesting month.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 03, 2010, 12:14:44 AM
Quote from: KoV Liberty on April 02, 2010, 08:38:16 PM
Maybe not a primitive elevator or hoist. If you look below it, you can see a turbine of some sort (correct me if I am wrong), and that would interfere with the cable being brought down to the ground. Overall, a very good BAT and I cannot wait to see whats going on after all this secrecy!

Alex

Turbine....hm? Good observation....maybe a fan of some kind? lol......
I enjoy all the ideas you folks come up with, they're really good, imagination is proof of good mental health, they say. You guys must be all healthy....

All that lumber...used for what, maybe underground you think, threestooges? Hm......Right, it is a pathway between the two towers alright, most likely because of their height.
There's another thing....well several more things...to take into consideration......
Why were the two bridge construction workers found dead nearby and why did they build these towers near the skullhuts it seems? Coincidence? And why is the Gouvernment so silent about all this and so darn strict for aerial visits? What are those long things (bldg's) near the towers anyways (on the first picture that the bushpilot brought them)? If they are hangars of some kinds, why are they so long?

ohhh....I got a funny feeling this is something way more serious than just an archiological find. If they have moved the big powerlines for more than a mile then it must be serious!....I wonder........what John, Alex and Mike will be doing this week.
I also heard that the Military is about to give a public explanation, will they be honest about this? Let's wait and see. 1965 will be an interesting year.

I'll be gone for saturday and part of sunday, but Monday I got a full day of Simcity....woohoo. Be aware, maybe we get to see more of that building.....lol

But before I go, here's another picture of that building (or those buildings), from a different view.

Fred


(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg263.imageshack.us%2Fimg263%2F319%2Ftower7.jpg&hash=3eb06ceb63ba89a8f250dcf2677eba66a5bd3088)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on April 03, 2010, 08:00:20 AM
with the vents and lifts it has to be something fairly deep underground to warrant such extensive apparatus. my thoughts are potential uranium mine with on site enrichment?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on April 03, 2010, 02:38:52 PM
Great updates, I've been away for too long!  I love the suspense with the unknown...  Initially when I saw it, it looked very much like the research tower at Fermi Lab (http://www.fnal.gov/pub/about/campus/wilsonhall.html), which is not far from where I grew up in suburban Chicago.  Once we got the closeups, I thought it looked like a mine... and the turbine thingy looks like it could be ventilation for said mine.   

Can't wait to see what happens!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 03, 2010, 11:48:21 PM
mightygoose, nah....Uranium mine this big? Doubt it.
CabraBuitre, just a mine?...hm.....maybe, but what kind...if it is a mine. The ventilation for the mine or for anything else makes sense though.

- Two workers died right on the spot....................no one knows how or the cause.
- Several kilometers of fence around the site, now even High voltage, highly surveyed...
- All that secrecy.....
- Detour the High Power lines for several kilometers......expensive.
- No nearby airtraffic tolerated and menaced with serious threats to be shot down....

.....all that for a mine? I wonder.....

I'll be back later today, maybe with an official answer to many questions.

Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg171.imageshack.us%2Fimg171%2F751%2Fwestriverhv.jpg&hash=b84d568330c31585e53eb4b2a14041bbee59c4e0)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 04, 2010, 04:45:15 AM
I still say top-secret military base.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on April 04, 2010, 08:37:39 AM
solyent green factory?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on April 04, 2010, 12:03:48 PM
Area 51  $%Grinno$%
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: scott1964 on April 04, 2010, 06:49:36 PM
A Top Secret Bad Guy Base.  :P
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 04, 2010, 08:51:04 PM
Update 44


««" You're early", John said to Mike when he arrived at Barby's Biergarten this Friday of March 25th, 1965, "it's only 3 PM".
"And you? Since when are you here?" Mike answered the question with a question. John smiled without saying much and invited Mike to sit down and hear what he's got to say this end of a busy week.
The Group of 4 that gather every friday afternoon for a couple of beers at the central Biergarten in Access to discuss the weeks advancements of highway 15has grown to 6 people. Alex Puto and Steve Gibson have joined the gang since a few weeks. Today only John's father, Henry, couldn't come, but everyone else arrived before 3 PM at the Pub.
Although gathering of the group was mainly to end the week with all the construction events of the week and to relax before ending the week's labour, some other subjects have infiltrated the conversations lately. "I told you that I would finish intime, remember?" Alex told John, his boss, while shaking his hand at his arrival."
All suprised John wouldn't know what he was talking about and gave him this confused look asking silently to explain. " You told me, no..." Alex took a deep breath, "You specified to me that the bridge over the river HAS TO BE finished before the end of march last fall, remember?" John nodded positively," Well it's done!" Alex proudly announced with a million § smile, "You can send in your troups now".
"Well, well well," John all suprised answered," Although I told you march, I awaited it for the end of April after all. Well done my friend." and he reached out his hand again to settle the affair and congratulate Alex. "That's the way to go, now we're back on schedule."

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The discussion about the highway construction went on until the young bush pilot, the last of the group, arrived. Steve Gibson again was quite nervous and looked around before seating himself. Mike couldn't help and had to comment loudly. " No coffee for the pilot please, otherwise he will be flying us to the moon soon." and ended his phrase with laughter.
Steve sat down, took a deep breath and said looking mostly at John. " You never believe what I got in my jacket."
You got another picture of the towers?" John replied.
"Well, almost" Gibson stated, "I got a Blueprint of the towers."
"A what???" Slye asked all ears. John had to interfere and asked Slye to keep down his voice when they're talking about this matter.
Gibson confirmed that he received a Blueprint from his cousin Tommy in Lakestead, while he got it from his wife's cousin who works as a secretary at the architectural firm that was responsable to create the construction plans for the military. She received the order to destroy all the plans that the government had at this office concerning the tower construction in West River and knowing that her cousin had a brother in law that was immensely interested in the matter, she kept a small copy hoping that it would bring her cousin some joy. Gibson gladly accepted and brought it to the meeting.
John opened the papers and, "Wow, now, that's what I call a n important find. You're hired.", and  he looked at Steve with a big smile. Everyone else became instantly all eyes and ears admiring the plan.
"What is it?" were the first words that came out of Slye. "I mean, what do you think they're used for?"
John looked carefully at the plan and handed it over to Alex, who was more of a Pro with blueprints, being the Bridge Project Manager of Highway 15.
"Something you've seen before Alex?" Alex nodded negatively while his mouth deformed itself and it took him several minutes to add his comment.

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"Nope, looks like some access to below ground if you ask me, but exactly what they do, I have no idea. There is a transport shaft that goes below and some pipes. I can't seem to make out those markings in between the towers.Hm..... Maybe they found oil or something."
"Hahhaha" Mike started laughing, "and I suppose that's why the army is taking care of the whole matter. Oil of course, why didn't I think of that?.", especially pronouncing the word *army* louder than the rest. "C'mon, if that's for oil, then I got gold and silver in my pants.", lifting his hand for Barby to see and ordering another round of beer for everyone.
It took them all afternoon examining the plans from every view and talking about the possibilities what it could be. The meeting finished when John said it they all have too much imagination at the moment and that these towers probably have a very specific and simple use, which they will find out soon anyways.
The weekend started and everyone left home to spend it with their families. Alex asked to keep the blueprint to study it during the weekend and they left the Biergarten while John made sure for everyone to be here next week.»»

Meanwhile in Access Center, Mayor Bartlett is about to figure out how to expand the airport landing strip which needs urgently to be lenghtened for bigger planes to land. The airport commission suggested to do it in the western part, cutting down the hills a little. There they have agricultural land that stretches down to the Hydrodam and that can easily be worked out to serve as a landing strip with only some minor and easy leveling of the terrain.

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Also in Access, the new Elementary school will open this Monday. Much more room, modern and secure, everyone at the Mayor's office is proud to have ended this project. The new school now is situated near the big church where all the kids have been studying in it's basement.

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Where the old school used to be, the new highschool arose and it also will open during the coming week. Some of the neighboring lots were purchased to have the neccessary space to build the school and it fitted nicely between the Access Road and the small Peal street in the back of the Olsen Pub, Post Office, theater and the small red appartment block of Mr Wellington.

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As the citizen Mr McCoy has suspected and cried about two years ago, the garbage lots are running out of room. Mayor Bartlett himself still doesen't conside this as a problem at all, mentioning to just enlargen the area around it and that's exactly what they did.

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Still in Access Center, the famous Coca-Cola Company from the U.S.A. has approached the municipality to build a small bottling facility in the town's industrial park, and soon a terrain was reserved for its purpose. The Company will hire 160 workers or more and the construction should start before the end of this year.

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The former Police Chief of Access was recommended for retirement last month, probably because of the false arrest of Johnny B.Badd and his companion and which created a whole lotta mess of confusion in the law's department with the population, and the new chief arrived on last Tuesday. Mr Kyle Roberts, a lieutenant from Beecher Falls' Police department, gladly accepted the offer to become the new chief and already started to reorganize his new office on Access Road or Mainstreet as it is called now a days.

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We heard of a young married fellow from Sandom, that has just bought two lots near Tom Kohler's Bus station. Harry Wormwood, born in NJ, USA and his pregnant wife are supposed to open up the first car dealership in town, offering new and used cars and trucks to the population. The construction starts already on Monday morning they say.

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Also some newcomers to Access are George and Patrick Westwood from Reverant, that were hired by the Pastor of the bigger church. These two young twins will be doing maintenance and other jobs for the church and live in the presbytery nearby. Both were sent here by their father, who is a pastor in Beecherfalls and their mission is to learn more about the world that surround the churches of Simland.

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And a last newcomer this week to Simland is a young Literarian (writer) from Daloa, ILL, who immigrated to find a decent quiet place to spend his life writing. He rented a small basement appartment in Bluebay on Bergen Island, just below the Gabber's Mansions. Charles M. Johnson was approached by the Access Center Tribune lkast week to become the journalist for the Bluebay and Sandom area. Charles was happy knowing that only a day was needed to find himself a decent new job in the region.

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One man that was seen around the Access area quite often in the last weeks is a fellow from Beecherfalls that seems to have discovered Access as a playfull area. With a lot of Charm and a little arrogance, Paul Donovan spends his weekends in the Olsen Pub, Biergarten and other Pubs and Bars, making his weekly turns. Some folks have mentioned not to like him too much, taking too much space and feeling at home wherever he seems to go. Others don't mind and happily accept him in their buissnesses since he pays well and don't mind spending a few hundred § a weekend with the women he meets. What exactly he does as a profession to get his money from no one seems to know, and most of them don't care either. One thing for sure, he is known in Beecherfalls as a well known smalltime buissness man. Rumours are that he has been seen several times with our friend Slye from the Phlox Sawmill. Maybe an old acquaintance or maybe for buissness.
By the way, the Olsen Pub was sold this morning to some fellows from the Lakestead. They said they want to rebuild the streetcorner.

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In the Capitol City the journalists and the TV Medias were invited to a press conference thist weekend concerning and explaining of the military presence in West River. The conference will be filmed and diffused directly and live by the 3 biggest TV stations in Simland. Everone in Access, Grasslake, Phlox and Valmore will be sitting in front of their TV screen that hour hoping to relief their curiosity.
John Gabber invited his friends Mike, Alex, Slye and Steve to his big weekend home in Grasslake for this occasion.

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For our MD/CJ Readers this is the time to ask questions to Colonel Myers (not related to jmyers241 at all btw) about the West River military facility and its surroundings. So if you are curious and have one (1) solid and intelligent question each to publically ask the Colonel on that occasion (remember it is on Simland's TV live), do it right here and now. Every question will be answered by the famous WWII Hero and responsible for the military presence in West River right after his speech. So go ahead now.

I cannot mention everything that will be said on the live diffusion, but I will mention the most important parts of his speech that he will approach and explain. Form your questions after you have read the speech below , which might answer your question before you ask.

Colonel Neil Myers  is the responsable for the speech, excusing himself in the name of the Government and the Simland Army not have brought up this subject with explanations before, but he thought that it was only a very small incident  which wasn't worth mentioning. But as rumours made the population more nervous, Colonel Myers realized that the people of Access and the rest of the valley were seriously exagerating this simple situation, and before it will get out of control and to a point of panic, he explains in simple words what is going on at the West River location.

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««"As the Hydroline workers discvered the rockskull village, some of them got somewhat sick within a few hours while being in the area. This was caused by a natural gaz called Porolium that comes from below ground in small quantities and is somehow nocif to our health. Although not very dangerous, the area was fenced in as soon as possible to prevent access to the general public not to put their health at danger unneccessarily."
Colonel Myers will also mention that the death of the two bridgeworkers in the same area are not related to this gas, nor the presence of the skullhuts which have nothing to do with the leaks from underground. This is just a simple coincidence of the location. The workers were murdered and transported there and the federal Police is taking care of the investigation. That is all he could say about this case. The skullhuts are in the hands of the best historical scientists and archiologists at this very moment, which they are analysing and hopefully present a detailed report of this magnificient discovery within the next year. The huts will be carfully dismantled and transported to a museum in the next years, the army has nothing to do with htis anymore. The army however will stay in the area as the Government has decided to create a new training base. The area seemed fine and just perfect for this purpose and a few hundred of acres are now in the posession of the military. As he said *The army is here to stay*.
The buildings constructed are the first the military living quarters and some simple storage hangars. The two towers were build to serve as external valves to keep the gas off the surface. It was necessary to build them as big as they are to make sure that the gases stay off contact with our environment. Further details will probably be released in the next years.

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Colonel Myers assured that there's nothing is to worry at all concerning the West River base. All the rumours that he heard are just rumours and nothing else. No underground mines will be constructed, this is not a Concentration Camp that will be opened, nor any aliens or spacecrafts have been discovered, the towers are not a scientific lab, no significant excavation is going on, no uranium was found and it will not be another area 51 nor a top-secret military base or green soylent factory he explained with a serious and emotionless face.
We came here because the Government sent us there to control the gas leaks before it makes any damage. This is what we did within a few days, controlling the leaks, then the Government decided that they needed a fourth training military base in our nation and the location was chosen to be West River, just a coincidence and nothing more. He then asked politely that the population shouldn't panic and imagine all kinds of things everytime they see something they cannot explain right away. The presence of the military in the valley will only be positive for the region's economy and give it complete protection. There might be some other constructions soon and maybe a military airport later, nothing to worry about and complicate the population's imagination.
Then he lifted his head from the papers in front of him, looks at the journalists and says: "Any questions? Please one by one" »»

Now is the time for you to come into the picture to ask the your question. Please make it simple and short. Colonel Myers' answers will be in the next update, very soon. There is only a short time allowed to ask your question, so please be quick about it.

When the speech was over, Mike at Gabber's weekend home stood up and got in front of the TV set, looked at his friends and only said this: "If you ask me.....it stinks, it doesn't smell bad, it  j u s t  purely  s t i n k s. That Colonel is hiding something and it is written all over his uniform. I won't buy this sh** at all!"

to be continued......

Happy Easter
Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on April 04, 2010, 09:52:05 PM
Colonel Myers,  Bob Miller from the Highwood Register.

You mentioned that the public should not panic... but is that not, in fact, what the government and military has done?  Not only was the public not notified of this "gas leak" several weeks ago when construction began to take place at what now, I guess, will be a military base... but the local authorities here are quite good and should be given the opportunity to police the area.  Why did the government and military panic in this way?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on April 05, 2010, 07:11:52 AM
Johnny B. Badd indirectly takes down the head of police! Im sure he is proud of himself.

Another great update, a gas leak? Something seems a little bit shady.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on April 05, 2010, 07:49:44 AM
Only one question, huh? That doesn't seem very realistic, given the press conferences I've seen, especially the ones after Three Mile Island. While I can accept the story the army tells as plausible, the press is going to scent blood in the water. But here goes anyway (and not as Gregory Badger, who would get a dishonorable discharge for asking):

"Colonel, if this is truly a gas leak, why is lethal force necessary to protect it? Your pilots have threatened to shoot down aircraft straying too close to the airspace. Given such secrecy, I think you can understand why we might be concerned."
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on April 05, 2010, 07:51:51 AM
Lots of expansions are being made!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on April 05, 2010, 08:52:40 AM
Are these towers there to harness the Porolium and harness it for different uses?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on April 05, 2010, 08:54:24 AM
colonel, why such expansive and robust shaft caps and elevator housings for a shaft pairing designed merely to acess and seal gas leaks, not to mention the confusing need for air vents?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 05, 2010, 10:32:25 AM
Update 44a  first responses at the press-conference by Colonel Myers


«« 
Quote from: CabraBuitre on April 04, 2010, 09:52:05 PM
Colonel Myers,  Bob Miller from the Highwood Register.

You mentioned that the public should not panic... but is that not, in fact, what the government and military has done?  Not only was the public not notified of this "gas leak" several weeks ago when construction began to take place at what now, I guess, will be a military base... but the local authorities here are quite good and should be given the opportunity to police the area.  Why did the government and military panic in this way?

"Mr Miller, there was no panic within the Army nor the Government ever. It is the population who presumed the worst and started panicking only a few weeks ago while imagining all kinds of things. We only wanted to keep the gasleak event as low as possible not to have the public panic. In the beginning the public was not notified of the gasleak because of its small importance, but now that the population of Access has been imagining, we needed to inform you of that too little and insignificient incident at West River. Maybe we should have informed you earlier, but what would the population have said when we would explain that a small amount of very lethal and poisonnous Porolium gas is leaking from the gound near your town? Before we would have the time to explain that this amount of gas can be found in factory where heated oil is used and that it would be most probably in a greater quantity.
Next question:"

Quote from: frostwolf on April 05, 2010, 07:49:44 AM
Only one question, huh?
"Colonel, if this is truly a gas leak, why is lethal force necessary to protect it? Your pilots have threatened to shoot down aircraft straying too close to the airspace. Given such secrecy, I think you can understand why we might be concerned."

"Only one question will be granted to everyone, otherwise we will still be here tomorrow. My youngest daughter has her birthday today and I cannot under no circumstances allow myself to miss her party this evening.
Myself I have not heard about these "lethal" threats to shoot down any aircrafts that fly over the area. Let's not exagerate anything please. Maybe some pilots did not like being redirected and their statements might not be based on the truth? I have given orders though to inform any passing aircraft to stay away from the area as long as we do not have the situation fully under control. You must know by now, that the Simlish Government does not take any chances on anything. Next please:"

Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on April 05, 2010, 08:52:40 AM
Are these towers there to harness the Porolium and harness it for different uses?

"The towers are there to protect the region from any further gasleaks. They will not be used for anything else, since we don't know yet if the Porolium ever could be refined for positive usage. When we will however, we'll let you know. Anyone else with a question?"

Quote from: mightygoose on April 05, 2010, 08:54:24 AM
colonel, why such expansive and robust shaft caps and elevator housings for a shaft pairing designed merely to acess and seal gas leaks, not to mention the confusing need for air vents?

"These towers contain immense sized valves that are connected and cemented to the splits in the baserock where the gas leaks from. The buildings had to be solid and of that size because of the valves and also we have preplanned the construction to withstand any earthquake or enemy's attack. The fans are there to have the lower floors of these towers aired and made breathable for the inspectors and workers that will be on maintenance of these valves, assuring a quick evacuation of the interior athmospere just in case of a leak."

Colonel is taking a nip of the glass of cold water near his pedestrial, looking around very calmly and asking with a satisfying smile:

"Any more questions?"»»


EDIT: anyone can ask questions, even the Lurkers....;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on April 05, 2010, 12:16:25 PM
Why would an enemy attack a container full of poisonous gas?

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: just_a_guy on April 05, 2010, 01:02:41 PM
Is there a posibility that something could explode there thus leading to the construction of a long detour for the powerlines? I mean, that detour cost A LOT more money than it was supposed to.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 05, 2010, 05:19:44 PM
Seeing that there are not many people asking questions, you can now ask several questions. ;)
(not too many at once please)


Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on April 05, 2010, 12:16:25 PM
Why would an enemy attack a container full of poisonous gas?

«« Colonel Neil Meyers: "Attacking the valves could be an easy target for any enemies or terrorists. We do not know exactly the total quantity of the gaz below ground yet, but there's nothing to worry about now. The buildings are bombproof, so to speak."

Quote from: just_a_guy on April 05, 2010, 01:02:41 PM
Is there a posibility that something could explode there thus leading to the construction of a long detour for the powerlines? I mean, that detour cost A LOT more money than it was supposed to.

"No, Porolium is not a flammable gas, not even under high temeratures, so there's no danger of any explosions or fires.
The Powerlines were right in the pathway of the construction of the towers and therefore had to be detoured. No other ideal terrain for the powerlines were found in the proximity and that is why they had to continue building the lines several kilometers further away. Simple as this.

Any other questions? "
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on April 05, 2010, 06:16:32 PM
Is it possible that Porolium could be harvested and used as either a positive fuel or a deadly poision for military purposes?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 05, 2010, 06:19:05 PM
Hey Fred. Sorry I haven't been here in a while. Nice update! I don't seem to have any questions as of know.

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on April 05, 2010, 06:49:28 PM
Bob Miller, Highwood Register, a follow up please...

You just changed your statement.  You had said in your statement that Porolium is "not very dangerous" but in answering my question, you said that it is "very lethal and poisonnous."  Which is it?

And how can you be confident that the deposit is only in this one area?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on April 05, 2010, 07:04:06 PM
Is it possible for Porolium to be used in industry?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 05, 2010, 07:28:26 PM
Epic sweetness! I can hardly believe what is going on, it seems like everything is going to change. For better or for worse.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on April 05, 2010, 11:18:57 PM
Mr. Miller brings up a good point (stole my darn question!!),  if you found a small Perolium leak in this area, is it possible that their could be some bigger leaks all over the region?  With all the exploration and expansion of the region, someone could easily stumble upon one and be killed!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 06, 2010, 09:54:46 AM
Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on April 05, 2010, 06:16:32 PM
Is it possible that Porolium could be harvested and used as either a positive fuel or a deadly poision for military purposes?

«Colonel Neil Myers answering: "Like I said before, Porolium is NOT flammable and therefore not useful for energetic combustion. Also will the military not consider using it in warfare as a deadly weapon."

Quote from: CabraBuitre on April 05, 2010, 06:49:28 PM
Bob Miller, Highwood Register, a follow up please...

You just changed your statement.  You had said in your statement that Porolium is "not very dangerous" but in answering my question, you said that it is "very lethal and poisonnous."  Which is it?

And how can you be confident that the deposit is only in this one area?

"The idea is that Porolium in these small quantities that were leaking from the rock are not dangerous to anyone, but in great quantities it can be lethal. There are many leaks like this not only in the region but also elsewhere, but the quantities are totally insignificient and not even worth mentioning. In this case, which is the first in our Nation, Porolium was present in a greater amount that even some Powerline workers got sick from it. Future studies will reveil the amount of Porolium stored underground."

Quote from: canyonjumper on April 05, 2010, 07:04:06 PM
Is it possible for Porolium to be used in industry?

"Again, like I said before, Porolium is not anything for our benefice at the moment. Maybe in the future we will find a possibility to put it to good use."

Quote from: MattyFo on April 05, 2010, 11:18:57 PM
Mr. Miller brings up a good point (stole my darn question!!),  if you found a small Perolium leak in this area, is it possible that their could be some bigger leaks all over the region?  With all the exploration and expansion of the region, someone could easily stumble upon one and be killed!

"We doubt it greatly that any bigger leaks in the region can be found in the future. We have already surveyed most of the coastland's mountainous regions and no other important leaks have been detected. Several Survey Companies and Road construction Companies will be advised of this matter and supplied with  Porolium detectors.
I can assure you that there are no dangers at all implicated with this Porolium find in West River. Not dangerous to you and not to the rest of the nature.
Right here in the middle of the Capitol City, we are all breathing in Porolium in very small quantities ever since simanity exist. It's just like eating oranges. You eat one or two and everything is fine, eat several hundreds a week and you'll die of poisoning.

More questions?"  

The Colonel looking around with an assuring look in his eyes. On the screens at the TV Studio where the press conference is held, some pictures of the military installations were shown. The first close ups of the towers and the surroundings are reveiled.

Colonel Myers pointed to the screens where the pictures were shown and said, " Here are some pictures taken with one of our helicopters to give you an idea what the base, valve towers and the area look like at the moment. I hope that this will satify your curiosity." »

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Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 06, 2010, 10:23:20 AM
Hey Fred, I have a question:

"If this gas is indeed not deadly in small amounts, then a large amount must be leaking from the ground to produce such secrecy and worry from the government. Porolium has obviosly existed in the Simworld for ages, this may possibly be the death of the skull people that have said to live around this region. What we need to know is there any possibility we are in danger of dying from Porolium if more leaks from the world, what amount is lethal, and how it will affect our daily lives? For God's sake, tell the public Colonel Myers!"

;)

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: soulchaser on April 06, 2010, 11:30:46 AM
Colonel Myers, I'm a Geographer and came here because of the remains of the skullpeople. I would have a question based upon some information, you didn't provide yet. So I hope someone else might ask this, *...looking at the other people...* if I'm not allowed to ask another one.

So can you tell us what particular molecular base this so called Porolium is of? Is it carbon, nitrogen or sulfur based?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: penguin007 on April 06, 2010, 03:00:54 PM
That is looking like some serious construction so it must be something exciting!!

Will
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on April 06, 2010, 08:06:05 PM
I not that there re what appear to be storage buildings, what are they for?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on April 06, 2010, 11:22:43 PM
why so many trucks? and is that a site for a third valve tower in that square???
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 07, 2010, 05:38:05 AM
I think this could be good and bad. Good- increased interest brings people. Bad- one mistake could mean massive death.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on April 07, 2010, 09:46:09 AM
Crazy stuff going on.  Interesting story updates lately!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 07, 2010, 10:13:47 AM
Quote from: KoV Liberty on April 06, 2010, 10:23:20 AM
I have a question:

"If this gas is indeed not deadly in small amounts, then a large amount must be leaking from the ground to produce such secrecy and worry from the government. Porolium has obviosly existed in the Simworld for ages, this may possibly be the death of the skull people that have said to live around this region. What we need to know is there any possibility we are in danger of dying from Porolium if more leaks from the world, what amount is lethal, and how it will affect our daily lives? For God's sake, tell the public Colonel Myers!"
Alex

«Colonel Myers: " We don't know for certain what the cause of death of the skull people was, surely not the gas. The leak wasn't and never has been that important. We didn't even know for sure that this civilization ever existed until about a year ago when the powerline workers discovered their settlement. At this time we have not found any positive evidence of their existance either, no bones nor nothing else of proof have yet been discovered. That is in the hands of the archeologues and scientists.
As for the amount of lethal porolium, it is about 0.4 to 0.5 %. Now it is 0.012 at this moment, which is quite normal and it was 0.128 % when we discovered it. Again, you see there never has been any danger whatsoever."

Quote from: soulchaser on April 06, 2010, 11:30:46 AM
Colonel Myers, I'm a Geographer and came here because of the remains of the skullpeople. I would have a question based upon some information, you didn't provide yet. So I hope someone else might ask this, *...looking at the other people...* if I'm not allowed to ask another one.

So can you tell us what particular molecular base this so called Porolium is of? Is it carbon, nitrogen or sulfur based?

"What exactly the gas is made of or it's chemical composition , you would be better off talking to one of our scientists. But this is what I know. Porolium Gases are in the Carboxylate acid groups, therefore lethal for Sims and animals in greater quantities, above 0.5%. They're in the acidic gas groups. I also know that no sulphur is known to be part of it. This gas has not been scientificly fully probed yet, very little is known about it components and although we can find it anywhere in Simland in very small quantities. We know for sure that it is an asphyxiant gas in a pure state.
Maybe this discover will give our chemists and scientists a chance to study its components and find out more about it's positive and negative affinities."

Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on April 06, 2010, 08:06:05 PM
I not that there re what appear to be storage buildings, what are they for?

"The storage buildings as you name them, are simple hangars for the army's materials used for the training of our soldiers. These are part of the new armybase and not of the porolium subject. By the way, seeing that the army is settling in for good with a permanent training base should be enough proof of the area being totally secure."

Quote from: mightygoose on April 06, 2010, 11:22:43 PM
why so many trucks? and is that a site for a third valve tower in that square???

"The trucks transport all our materials needed for the construction of the base and the materials that come with it. The construction site you see is simple for some buildings for the base, nothing to do with being another valve, nor the gas."
After this answer, Colonel Myers closed his notebook and turned a last time to the journalists and cameras saying, " I hope this has been constructive enough to assure you of the security of the new base in West River. I thank you for the questions and please feel free to have a cup of tea or coffee in the backroom. Thank You.",  and he turned away leaving the studio without looking back nor answering anymore questions.
The public  pressconference is over now.»

At the Gabber's home in Grasslake, the gang turned off the television, which has been bringing them the live presscoference. Again Mike stood up, looking at his frineds and couldn't resist saying that it was simple armysh** to him, not believing one word. John Gabber calm him down, trying to make him realize that the Colonel brought up a lot of facts and sounded quite assuring in this matter. Mike still didn't believe it, mentioning that this is NOT finished yet. He also said that he will be talking to the Powerline workers that worked there and found the site, seeing if they know anything about this situation.
Slye mentioned that the Colonel words were enough to him to proof the innocense of this matter, but Alex Puto kept an eyebrow up high, and somehow supporting Mike's opinions. Young Steve Gibson, the bushpilot, wasn't too much reassured neither and all he could do is shaking his head, letting everyone know that he is a little confused.

Back in Access, the population took this pressconference quite positively and most of them went back to their daily chores as usual. The matter seems to be accepted and closed for the majority of the citizens. That evening the town of Access was back to its normal state.

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I will be back this week with the final *WHO LIVES WHERE* subject.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on April 07, 2010, 11:03:32 AM
I myself am not convinced either!  There were alot of flaws in Colonel Myers answers and many did not add up, If there are so many of these leaks why build the towers here and here only?  I understand the press conference is over so I'm not expecting an answer.


-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 07, 2010, 01:31:38 PM
As my character, I AM NOT convinced by this either. So inconclusive, too many gaps... Unless the aea is open to the public, I am not convinced. ;)

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 07, 2010, 03:16:19 PM
Why are you so reassuring? Usually people pretend nothing is there when talking about things this "top secret", so what has changed? Thats what I want to know.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: scott1964 on April 07, 2010, 09:23:14 PM
Finally my character is mentioned.  $%Grinno$% :P (https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fbestsmileys.com%2Feek%2F8.gif&hash=7e702912f86f5fc417a3ca868453da9d864d5bfa)(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fbestsmileys.com%2Fexcited%2F3.gif&hash=9c0e0e76c2b19c9d553343aa1fda245ed1ff781d)(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fbestsmileys.com%2Flicking%2F2.gif&hash=8f3c5c8b7e444eecc78be968c0330df56718656a)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on April 07, 2010, 10:08:44 PM
I don't know. I'm still not sure everything's on the up-and-up, but I suppose a new military base in the area will be good for the local businesses (not complaining about the lumber business at all either). He'll take their money, but the second Slye catches catches wind of something... well, let's just hope it doesn't come to that. Nice update and press conference Fred. Some good thought went into those answers it seemed.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 08, 2010, 07:42:04 AM
Thanks for participating with the press conference, that was interesting. Of course questions asked after can not be answered, because I myself have no idea what's going on either... ;) I guess you have to wait until the next meeting the Colonel Neil Myers.

MattyFo, I myself would like to know why two gigantic towers were built on the gasleaks, when they only mention a small amount leaking...hm?? And why that big construction site just beside it, wonder what that will be.

Rumours are (some people say so) that they found underground caves that are big enough to hold an entire city and in case of a third war, since we are in the era of the coldwar, they are developping this dark area to suit to simsurvival. The two towers are only the airshafts, resposable to bring oxygen below ground.......but then again, these are just rumours and another possibility of expaining them.


KoV Liberty, keep on dreaming, I personnally think that the area will never be open for public visits, unless I'm totally wrong.


Cyclone1001, what do you mean by "What has changed"?


scott1964, sorry for being late, but so many things are happening right now in the region, hard to keep everyone busy... ;). He will be back in the next update.

threestooges, thanks, glad you liked the press conference, it was something different I guess. Surely it will be good, Id say even excellent, for Slye, he will make a little fortune with this, maybe pay off his sawmill and have enough left to build himself that Fire and the Freight station.

I will be back a little later than I thought with the *Who Lives Where* topic, at the latest on sunday. We still have two more to do. I thought one more would be enough, but there are still 13 characters left to show where they live.


Here are ALL the most important Characters of this story sofar and their "Godfather*. If you're not on the list, let me know, I must have forgotten... &Thk/(
The ones in orange are still to come....

Robert Sweathers...........me
Terry S.Slye..................threestooges
George Troy..................me
Tony Racsan.................NASCAR_Guy
Guy Racsan...................NASCAR_Guy
John Gabber Sr..............me
Andy Dubold..................me
Mike Allheimer................me
Nethaniel Wellington.......danielcote
Riichirou Takahaschi.......just_a_guy
Barby White..................BarbyW
Steven Bartlett..............me
Diar MacGormain............TheTeaCat
Johnny B. Badd..............nedalezz
Joe Bean.......................me
Alex Puto......................KoV Liberty (driftmaster07)
John Gabber.................me
Gary Gabber.................me
Henry Gabber...............me
Helena Gabber.............me
Gregory Badger............frostwolf
Michael Arven..............mightygoose
Rundi Sterling...............me
Harry Wormwood...........MattyFo
Robert Yome................me (not yet introduced)
Charles M. Johnson......emgmod
Jordan Meaden............canyonjumper
George and Patrick Westwood.......CabraBuitre
Steve Gibson..............Cyclone1001
Paul Donovan..............scott1964
Richard Welder............me
John Gabber Jr.............me
Kyle Roberts................me
Tom Kohler.................RustyXL
Adrien McCoy..............me
Julie Olsen..................me
Ray Olsen...................me
Paul Hubert.................me


Of course other characters such as Charlie, John's wife and kids and all the other kids etc are not mentioned, because we know (or can imagine) where they live, right?

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 08, 2010, 10:54:04 AM
By "what has changed" I mean why aren't they trying to pretend this doesn't exist. Doesn't the military usually do that?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 08, 2010, 02:37:21 PM
Heh, you probably wont be wrong since you are making the story. :D Lol. Looking foreward to the newest update!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on April 08, 2010, 02:48:22 PM
Nice! You finally got a list up.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 08, 2010, 05:45:44 PM
Quote from: Cyclone1001 on April 08, 2010, 10:54:04 AM
By "what has changed" I mean why aren't they trying to pretend this doesn't exist. Doesn't the military usually do that?

Who says they aren't putting you on a wrong route? Somehow they have to explain something is going on, with all those constructions, right?
I guess the military's situation handling is just working out fine as they want it.... ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 08, 2010, 06:09:12 PM
Well, I'm still not buying what they are trying to sell... If you know what I mean.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on April 09, 2010, 09:39:01 AM
I was talking to my fiancee about the design, and she made some good points that really got me thinking, and there's holes in this story big enough to sail an aircraft carrier through.

If these are just vent stacks, why are they so robust? If porolium isn't dangerous, why are such big towers needed? Why exactly are vent stacks needed anyway? We're told that the stacks are there because they don't want Porolium to have contact with the lower atmosphere. That tells me that the gas is heavier than air. But hang on a second. If gas is heavier than air, it sinks straight down. Now, you can disperse it, but how much needs to be dispersed and how far do you need to push it? Those stacks are huge. Also, why would there only be one leak of porolium anywhere along the entire coast? What's making it? Why only here in this one place?

As for caves: the site is right next to a large river, where any cave would be below the water table. Any cave down there would be filled with water, unless there was something actively pumping the water out while someone tried to build a structure to keep the water out. But caves near active waterways are usually dug by water action, and aren't, so far as I know, found underneath the waterway itself (without the waterway entering them). Rock is permeable, and water finds its way into everything. There are no hills close enough for such caves to exist and this to simply be a remote air scrubber station.

So I'm with Cyclone and Mike; I don't quite buy it yet.

Here's a question, keeping in mind the Cold War era times. Does Simland have The Bomb yet?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 09, 2010, 11:16:25 AM
Excellent statement and argument, frostwolf. What you have said is most logical and based on the facts that there are *big enough holes to sail an aircraft carrier through*, I suppose you got more than reason not to buy it yet.
I liked the way you made sense with the porolium being heavier than air and why the towers need that big of an airexchanger or need to be that tall. Maybe they aren't airexchangers?
Anyways, excellent post making a lot of sense. I myself am starting to doubt the honesty of the Colonel....;)

About the cavern being drowned by water because the river is so near is not quite right. Here in the area where I live is a river that goes right through a minicanyon and it has a 78 foot deep cavern going straight down about 150 feet away from thst river with only maybe 2 feet of groundwater in it. Where the water in there drains, no one seems to know, but the fact is that is does drain after a good thumderstorm having raised the level to several feet higher. So, that might be an exception, but also a fact.
I didn't hear of the Colonel talking that there were actually caverns. He mentioned some cracks in the ground rock that were leaking small amounts of porolium, enough to make the powerline workers somewhat sick.
Oh, and yes, Simland has nuclear weapons, most of them can be found in the Lakestead area, right in the valleys of the Goreland. A picture of Lakefield and its region will be shown with the very last update from *Who Lives Where*.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 09, 2010, 03:48:19 PM
Is it any coincidence that nuclear weapons cause lots of destruction and blood and "gore," and the area thats its located in is "Goreland?" Lol.

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 09, 2010, 06:35:48 PM
Quote from: KoV Liberty on April 09, 2010, 03:48:19 PM
Is it any coincidence that nuclear weapons cause lots of destruction and blood and "gore," and the area thats its located in is "Goreland?" Lol.

Alex

Yap, the giant valley is called *Goreland* (near Lakestead) where most of the "chimneys" are...........Coincidence.......lol ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 09, 2010, 07:41:26 PM
"Chimneys"? Would this have a similar meanting to "Nuclear missle silos"?  :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 09, 2010, 10:47:15 PM
Quote from: Cyclone1001 on April 09, 2010, 07:41:26 PM
"Chimneys"? Would this have a similar meanting to "Nuclear missle silos"?  :D

Right on. :) Well... I call them nuclear chimneys....  8-)

Btw, I am working on the last words for Saturday's *Who Lives Where* number 5/6 update. But it is 1:45 AM now, going to bed and finish it tomorrow sometime, don't feel too well, maybe a cold coming up? Hm ..... «looking for the aspirins»....

Good night

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: dedgren on April 09, 2010, 11:14:05 PM
QuoteEDIT: anyone can ask questions, even the Lurkers....

Where's the bathroom?

No, seriously- I read all 43 pages at a sitting last night.  This is great stuff, Fred- you are a fine storyteller.


David
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 10, 2010, 05:44:02 AM
Quote from: dedgren on April 09, 2010, 11:14:05 PM
Where's the bathroom?

No, seriously- I read all 43 pages at a sitting last night.  This is great stuff, Fred- you are a fine storyteller.


David


The bathroom is through the third door on the left before West River, once entering, make sure to leave a trail behind.....so you can find your way out....;)

Hey thanks David for dropping in and flattering me. Nice to see you here. I feel honoured to have the creator of 3RR going through my pages....;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 10, 2010, 11:10:44 AM
Who Lives Where 

Fifth of a set of Six

I had no choice to make 6 updates of the *Who Lives Where* series, there were just too many characters to meet. Here it goes with the one before the last of that series.

Today we're back in Access Center again, this time in the North-east part of it, where we never have been yet. This small extension of Access into the north-east is close to the "Dark Forest" as some call it, dense dark Evergreen mature forest. This is Government's land, no private has yet put hands on these terrains, mostly because they are not for sale at the moment and only small amounts of lots have been given away for building. I'm syre Slye would like to put his hands (or machinery) on these trees.......
Here we meet our first Mayor and Founder of Access Junction, at that time. He was Mayor from 1957 to 1962. Paul Hubert was the first elected Mayor of Access and the whole region and also the man that started the rise of Access Town. Today he is operating a small Transportation Trucking Company with four trucks that he himself and his two sons run. Born in 1907, Paul is now 58 years old and still giving some advice to today's Mayor Steven Bartlett, when asked for. Paul has still his wife Andrea and that since 1933.
Both live in this small home since he retired from Mayoring and the Garages were built at the same time, when he started his buissness of trucking.

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Mr Hubert and his wife prefer the quiet country like type of life, living close to the famrs and the forest and taking their early morning walk down the road everyday to see some wildlife feeding on the forest's borders or in the fields.

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Another one who lives in this part of town is our Adrien McCoy. We haven't heard much of him yet, but he's already well known at the municipal Office, defying very often the competence of Mayor Bartlett at almost every public meeting. Born in 1941, he is only 23 years old and already fanatically into greenpeace actions and a fullblood environmentalist. McCoy has predicted a great upcoming problem with the garbage disposal in Access last year, which Bartlett does not see as a danger nor a problem at all. Born in a little village in the Buff Mountain region,(check on Mainmap) he came to town when his father threw him out of his home at the age of seventeen, having had enough of his harcelments about the way he handles the environment as a logger. Adrien found himself a small job in the shopping Mall on maintenance and still works there.
He lives on the same road as the former Mayor, Paul Hubert, only a few houses down, in a small house that he bought himself with the money that he inherited from his aunt when she passed away some years ago.

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McCoy lives very close to the Dark Forest and he can hear those strange sounds in the night that everyone is wondering about for years. Nearby also lies the only cemetary in town (below right)

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Now let's go to the maintown of Access, the one that we know quite well by now, downtown. We know Julie Olsen as the daughter of Ray Olsen, the one who managed to have Lucy killed in the late fifties, fighting over the property that is today owned by Barby White. Julie has been taking care of the Olsen Pub by herself everysince. Born in Frampton in 1939, Julie is now 25 years old, happily married since two years and is awaiting a child later this year. Her husband, a young strong man from Bluebay, has its own Boat constuction Company in Sandom, building sporting sailboats. Julie is about to think seriously to sell her Pub either to Mr Wellington, who sees an opportunity for future buissness or to an organization from Lakestead who wants to implant itself in Access.

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Julie lives alone at this moment in her upstairs appartment, seeing her boyfriend only on weekends. The Olsen Pub is well known and was the first Hotel or Pub in town, even before the town was a town, serving highway workers and Loggers. The buissness is still high and weekends have to be reserved to get a table. (sorry for the blacked out area, that will be in the next update)

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Still in Access Center, we have heard once about the Westwood Twins from Reverant. Their father, the Pastor in Reverant has sent them to Access to get used to the daily chores of a smalltown church, where the Pastor of Access has gladly accepted the will of Mr Westwood. George and Patrick Westwood were born in Reverant in 1941 and are 23 years old. They work for the church and lives with the Access Pastor in an older big home right in front of the new Access church.

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Although that they are twins , they are completely different. George is more of a romatic lovesearching fellow, looking for adventures and he also a big Basketball star back in the College of Reverant, while Patrick is the kind of more like a Genius, always thinking fellow, serious at whatever he attacks. Both have a separate room upstairs in the house of the pastor. (again sorry for the blackout, it will also be in the next update)

About the blackened out spots: I play faster than I can write the story.....lol

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Now let's go to Frampton, a well known City far north from the Winding River Region. Here is where Paul Donovan lives, the fellow that comes visiting Access every weekend and runs after Access' skirts. Nobody really knows anything about him, except that he spends his evenings in the bars, hotels and pubs of Access with several girls in the last months and pays well the services he receives from the bartenders. Paul was born in Frampton in 1930 and is today 35 years old, not married yet and he probably has a Company there in Frampton too. Rumours are that he has a well going construction supply company in the city, explaining somewhat his money he spends in Access.

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Donovan lives in a decent appartment building right next to the Albert Reinstein Park and the Frampton Cityhall and Highway 213, connecting the Capitol City, Frampton, Reverant and Beecherfalls and attaching soon the Highway 15 that will come up from the Winding River Region one day. Paul wants to live in Access some time, starting to look around for a good place to build a home.

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Still in Beecherfalls, we will see where that Tom Kohler lives, the fellow that started a taxibuissness in Access and had it enlarge to the Kohler Buslines, supplying Access, Sandom and Bluebay with Bus services, running 8 busses now. Thomas Kohler, better known as Tom was born is Beecherfalls in 1938, making him 27 years old now. Still not married, he seemed to have found someone in Beecherfalls, where he still has his appartment and spends most of his freetime and the weekends now. He often takes one of his busses and drives home with it, parking it nearby his appartment in Beecherfalls.

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Kohler started a one-car Taxiservice some 5 years ago in Access, has worked hard eversince and having made a lot of debts to lance himself into the bus service buissness, which seems to do alright these days. He is already thinking of widen his company and creating the first regional busline in Simland, that will send busses to every city and town one day. Tom still lives in a small very simple duplex right in front of a shopping mall in Beecherfalls and just like Donovan, he is looking for a nice spot near downtown Access to have his own house build one day. He still owns the taxicompany in Access with 6 cars and sometimes even drives one of them, loving the contact with the people from Access.

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Now let's go back to Bluebay, but on the Bergen Island part of the region, where another not yet well known character lives. Charles M. Johnson is originally from Daloa, ILL, USA and moved to Bergen Island only a few years ago. He is somewhat of a dreaming writer having studied literature in his hometown. Charles was hired by Joe Bean from the Access Tribune and serves as a part-time journalist in Bluebay and Sandom for the Access Journal.

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Born in 1945, he is only 20 years old now, living alone in small appartment in the Bluebay Suburbs on Bergen Island. Scared of water he never approaches the sea, which only a few steps away from his home. Young Johnson is shy, not talking to many people, the quiet guy type, observing how other people react in their daily livings and daydreaming a lot of his freetime.

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That's it again, the last of this series is coming very soon and it probably will be the next update. Thanks for commenting. Have a nice weekend now. Be back soon enough, gotta make this MD worthwhile spending the month of April in the OSITM. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on April 10, 2010, 07:58:38 PM
Nice update! i see things are changing fast.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 10, 2010, 08:26:52 PM
Once again, great job! And don't worry about it not being worthwhile, it already is! Have a great weekend. :thumbsup:

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: RustyXL on April 10, 2010, 08:54:36 PM
Wow theres been some interesting stuff going on lately. These Who Lives Where updates have been really cool, it nice to know more about the characters. I guess the neighbors must be happy about Tom parking his bus nearby  :D.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: scott1964 on April 10, 2010, 09:53:32 PM
Nice to see Paul in his surroundings. If things get tough, Paul might have to put in a call for his man Hicks.  :P $%Grinno$%
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: penguin007 on April 11, 2010, 02:37:49 PM
Lovely towns there and the railway looks great

Will
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 11, 2010, 07:06:00 PM
Thanks for leaving comments, which are always interesting to read and sometimes inspiring, helping me to go along with the story.




Who Lives Where

Final of a series of six

That's it, now that we have covered all of our characters in our story. We will be able to continue the story of the Winding River Project with the next update.

First let's go to Frampton, another big City in our story and see who else lives there. We all know the John Gabber now, and his oldest son Junior has the same name. Born in Bluebay, Junior is now 25 years old, studying in Frampton and also lives there, while working at his father's Office when he's not into studies. Young Gabber is the oldest of 5 and the only one that doesn't live home anymore. Mr Gabber has put a lot of hope that Junior will take over the Construction part of his Company one day. Of course as Gabber's son, you merrit the best appartment and services available in exchange to study good and hard.

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Junior lives on the Campus, just beside the sportsfield, where he has a nice view of the old University towers, the fields and the campus itself. Junior hopefully gets his degrees next year and will be able to step in beside his father and his uncle Gary.

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Also in Frampton and not too far away from the University campus, lives Steve Gibson. We know Steve as the bushpilot, flying biologists and landsurveyors all over the River Region. Steve just lately has attached himself to the little gang that hangs out at Barby's every friday afternoon, bringing them important information about the armybase in West River. Born somewhere without knowing exactly where in 1940, Gibson is only 25 years old at the moment and still living in Frampton with his young and pregnant wife Ashley. Already having a lot of studies in his bag and some important flying experience, Steve wants to move to Access or the area one day and open his own small airplane company for touristic use.

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Steve is a vivid and fanatic Golfer, spending all the free time he gets on Frampton's golfcourse. He just can't over it that Access nor any neighboring villages do not have a golfcourse yet. Last year he approached the council in Access with this idea, but as the town is in a somewhat small crisis growing out of its capabilities ever since, the idea of a golfcourse in Access was rejected. I think he only waits for a golfcourse to be build in Access, to come and live here.
His appartment is close to the highway. Both he and his wife do not really enjoy the place, but for the moment that is all that they can efford.

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A little strange talking about someone in prison, but he was a well known character in the beginning of the story. Having earned himself 20 years of prison in the Lakestead Low Security Prison for hiring someone to murder Lucie, the owner of the first Restaurant in Access, Ray Olsen, the father of Julie Olsen, was the owner and builder of the Olsen Pub in Access. The complete story of that murder was never really reveiled to the public and probably never will. The murderer himself, Gerry Mason, was recently executed in the larger High Security Prison in Lakestead.

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Not much to say about Olsen's living quarters, except that is only one small cell with a bed, small table, chair and toilet. Ray has still 15 years to do before thinking about parol. Ray was born in Reverant in 1920 and that makes him 45 years old at this time.

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Richard Welder, the fellow that spends his summers and falls in Phlox just beside Slye's Sawmill running his newly purchased Fishing Outfitter lodge, lives in the Capitol City of Lakestead near the bay. Born in 1934 in Lakestead City and having lived there ever since, Richard is divorced with one daugter of 4 years and is 31 years old these days. He built the lodge in Phlox last year, a place that he wishes to make his entire life with. Welder  has been dreaming of it since his childhood.

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Welder's little home, a mini duplex so to speak, is right in the middle of a fully developped residential are of Lakestead situated near the bay. He was born near the airport, which we will see once the pictures of all the regions are updated and uploaded.

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Back to Sandom, where Harry Wormwood also lives, there's a guy we haven't met yet, but somehow will one day change the destiny and future of the Winding River Region completely. His name is Robert Yome, an aborigine just like the Billionaire Mr Sterling, not related though. Born during the war in Sandom in 1942, which makes him 23 years old, he lost his mother a year after his birth and his father by the end of the war. He was raised by relatives from his father side and was taught the base of knowledge of the Aborigins of Simland. Bobby-Yome, as his relatives and friends call him, is quite instructed, having gone through elementary to highschool in Bluebay, then through College in Beecherfalls and now is about to study history, anthropolgy and archeology  in the Lakestead University.

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Young Yome lives here in Sandom in a small mobile home that he rents for very little §'s. Also being close to nature, he is a fan of hunting and fishing whenever he can find free time. Yome works at the 3 appartments blocks that you can see just north of his home as a Janitor, maintaining the buildings as much as he can and making a good salary by doing so. We will hear about him more in a few years.

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In the Access Center, Valmore District, we have another young fellow that we only barely met. Jordan Meaden was born in 1949 in the Vancouver/BC, Canada. He immigrated to Access with his father Jerry just lately, when Access asked for an experienced GIS Specialist to make the plans for the new Access' aquaduct. Jerry is glad to get away from Vancouver and start a new live with his son. Jordan is still going to highschool, the one that just opened in Access Center (coming up in the next update). He loves reading, planning his live, music and sometimes little adventures.

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Jordan also likes drawing and is already making detailed maps of the area where he lives, knowing every road, street, house and fields around. He lives of course with his father at the age of barely 16 in Access, the Valmore part of it, in a duples that his father rents. Their home is situated in a quiet part of the suburbs, not far at all from the farmlands that surround former Valmore South. His only dream is to become a Cartographer, something that he loves so much doing.

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And finally the last one of our characters in the Story of the WRP, Winding River Project. *There's a new Sherriff in Town*, we heard the people say just about a month ago. Kyle Roberts is from Beecherfalls, born in 1927 and he was offered the job as the Police Chief of Access when the former chief started arresting innocent people and several complaints against him were filed. Kyle is the small type and somewhat a little chubby fellow, but generally in good health and running as fast as any thief, sticking to his Police bible as much as his gun. Roberts believes in total organisation and rightful laws and justice. Having proofed himself in Beecherfalls, he was promoted to Captain just before he applied for the job in Access.

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Only a few days after his arrival, his wife Judy had chosen a small, but nice home near the town's end to live in. Having sold his home in Beecherfalls brought him more money of what a house here in Access costs and therefore a better home was possible, including a new car for him and his wife, who also already found a new job in Access at the Doctor's Office as a registered nurse. We met Kyle shortly on the first day of his work in Access, when he made the first page of the Tribune, answering a harmless call of reporting *fine lingerie* hanging out in the open in front of an older lady's appartment, remember? Mr Roberts took this as a lesson well learned from a smalltown experience.

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And that's finally it......ouffff....'twas about time.....lol. In later years, maybe 20 or more years into the future, we might come back and have an update of the *Who Lives Where* series. Surely some folks will have improved or even worsened their home, or moved, but for the moment that's it.

I will finish the regional maps with all the individual characters maybe tomorrow, to close this series once and for all. We then will come back with regular updates of the story.
I heard there will be a lot of action coming soon, some folks are seriously planning something totally dangerous and bad luck is just around the corner for others, who would have never suspect it coming. Be there, it will be hot for some!! The first page of the Access Center Tribune is not big enough to hold all that news from the valley.

Hope you enjoyed to know where everyone lives and what they do.
Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 11, 2010, 07:21:49 PM
Nice work! I'm surprised that Lucy's killer's boss isn't in a more security prison.

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on April 12, 2010, 12:06:37 AM
for the love of porolium, this anticipation pleases me.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 12, 2010, 04:10:47 AM
Ha! The guy in prison! That certainly is different.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on April 13, 2010, 06:47:55 AM
Quote(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg339.imageshack.us%2Fimg339%2F1691%2F6accessjolsenfar.jpg&hash=f88c84dad96067ea9bddb2b0e17dd1b1595f6964)

Is that black spot a new Club Foods?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 13, 2010, 12:16:42 PM
Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on April 13, 2010, 06:47:55 AM
Is that black spot a new Club Foods?

No, the new Clubfoods lot has been bought by Wellington (Next update) and will be in the new commercial zone reserved for new commerces, just about the first Highway exit to Access.
This blackened spot is where the elementary school once resided and since the terrain was a bigger lot than needed for the new elementary school, which now is elsewhere (next update), the terrain was taken by the Highschool badly needed in Access. All that will be shown in the next regular update.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on April 13, 2010, 03:52:21 PM
So that's where my character lives! ;D Great update Fred!

            -Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on April 14, 2010, 08:31:21 AM
very nice coupleof updates there!!!  Geez, I go away for a week and when I come back I got at least 2 pages to catch up on!  :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on April 15, 2010, 01:17:19 AM
Nicely done Fred. Always fun to see who's where around here. Just checking, but is it Kyle Richards or Roberts? He's referred to both way in the last update, though the pictures all say Roberts. Aside from that, everything looks pretty good. Now I think, if there's time, a bit of fishing from the banks of the sawmill is in order.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 15, 2010, 07:48:51 PM
Thanks guys, glad that you liked the series.
threestooges, thanks for mentioning the error of Roberts turning into Richards, my fault, probably thought of my lovely neighbor (Miss Richards) at the same time.... ;) I corrected it.

The maps are coming, most probably tomorrow (friday), and a regular update on the weekend. Things are changing in Access rapidly.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on April 15, 2010, 11:52:44 PM
fantastic work as always.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 16, 2010, 09:58:50 PM
Here they are, the Regional Maps of all regions that are or will become part of this Story, the *Winding River Project*, or WRP.

First the General Map which is showing all the different regions on one map.

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Let's start with the Beecherfalls region.

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Belleminton, a region that is still under construction. It will be the city at the end of the Winding River, where it meets the sea. I have done about 25% of what I would like to populate on it. It will play a big part in the future. We will also call it the *Winding River Outlet*.

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Of course, we know Bluebay already, and the Bergen Island, the most beautiful place in my Simland.

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Then comes Frampton, one of the bigger Cities and also one of the most important ones. It has the University where most our characters went to and most of the HQ offices and Companies that will become a part of the Winding River also.. Because Frampton is close to the sea, it has a small harbour and airport.

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This is......well, not much explaining to do, this is simply the place that we talk about everytime and holds our story, Access Center and it's neighbors in our Winding River Region. What you see here is only about the half the size of what the Winding River Region exactly is.

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Lakestead, also called sometimes the Capitol City, is located northwest of the Winding river and has the source lake of the Winding River. In other words, the winding River starts here with the big mountain lake. One day we will have a good look at this region also. It is by the way the Capitol of my Simland. There's a lot of stuff there. What you see here is about 20% of the region, which is really immense and extends into the mountains on the right and into the plains on the left and upper part of the region, and also the city itself continues in the north right into the plains. We see only about 40% of the city. I didn't want to show you the whole regions yet, because I still got some surprizes coming with the story, but eventually we will see all of it one day. Lakestead has the International airport, where I spent some 20 hours of play to figure out how to make a decent good looking airport and I'm not a pro.

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Reverant is a widespred agricultural city completely in the north and is separated by the Beecher River that also flows through Beecherfalls and Frampton. Reverant has a small harbour but shiptraffic ends here because of the waters getting shallower and shallower all the way up the river.

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And finally the town of Sandom, smaller than all the others (only a Medium-tile sized Region), close to the sea, north of Bluebay and just south of the Winding River which it actually touches with the region's yet unexplored south-east corner, right of Grasslake.

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These were the eight Regions that we will see and hear about during the whole story. Now I hope that you are oriented enough to find your way around without getting lost. If you need directions , ask me. I will make a better and clearer "General Map" one day also...;)

Have a nice weekend and I will be back in a day or two with a regular update.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on April 17, 2010, 07:04:15 AM
Nice I see you're showing all the Cities.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 17, 2010, 07:37:20 AM
Beautiful &apls What mod(s) do you use to have snow on top of the mountains? Thanks in advance.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 17, 2010, 08:32:58 AM
NICE WORK! :thumbsup: I cannot wait to hear the next part in the story!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kimcar on April 17, 2010, 08:39:59 AM
 &apls &apls Excellent overview that you show. A lot of work in this entire map  :thumbsup:Sorry for not comment each update
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on April 17, 2010, 10:43:00 AM
Great overviews, Fred!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 17, 2010, 04:50:55 PM
Thanks folks, glad that you liked the regionviews.

Quote from: Cyclone1001 on April 17, 2010, 07:37:20 AM
Beautiful &apls What mod(s) do you use to have snow on top of the mountains? Thanks in advance.

The snowmod I used in most of my regions is called *CP_ColumbusPlayTerrainParametersForUseWithCPT_No7TreeController SNOWSCAPPED*
I got it from Simtropolis, but I can't give you a  link, I'm banned there again... >:(
You will have to search for it on the STEX.
hope that helps..... ;)

Fred

EDIT:

Here's everything that I use in my terrainfolder in the Access Region. Some other regions have slightly different rockmods, water, beach and treemods, which I change when playing in these regions.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg444.imageshack.us%2Fimg444%2F2325%2F76755.jpg&hash=a1d3e63aa77409c9512c7fda975cd47158d72777)

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: scott1964 on April 17, 2010, 04:53:57 PM
 :o
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 18, 2010, 04:11:30 AM
Thanks for that, I'm already downloading.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 18, 2010, 01:41:03 PM
Update 48  april 4,1965


Ok, back to the regular updates, things are changing. First we will go back to our Maintown, Access Center where a few changes have made a major impact. Mayor Bartlett is more and more appreciated by the population since he slowly advances his promissed services. Not quick enough for some of the population, but most of the votes are back on his side.

The airport's landing strip "stretching" was finally approved by the federal Government and Mr Tony Racsan is financing the project. The runway will be elongated for a few hundred yards to permit bigger planes to land, mostly Cargo. The project will cost some 250 K §. Good thing that the land already belonged to the Airport Commission. The project is supposed to start in next year's fall. Also will be added some more buildings, offices, a small hotel and a hangar or two.

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At the Hydrodam things are going fantastic. Although most of Access and surroundings already get their power and water from here, only recently the whole system was declared fully done. It is also open to the public to go with a guided tour of these premisses. Some gardens and parks will come later this year or by the beginning of next year. By the way, the waterlevel has risen a little this winter, it was badly needed.

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More in the downtown area of Access, a small terrain was purchased by Harry Wormwood from Sandom. He always wanted to become an independant cardealer, and now that he had the chance to buy himself this small lot for little money and he's on the way to start the first cardealership in Access one day soon. The lot is situated just about on the other side of the road that leads into the Valmore part of Access and beside a small Canteen that just opened a while ago and is already  lacking parkingspace. Wormwood has already in mind to buy this part of the terrain also one day.

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During friday evening most of the counsil received a short visit from a population group that is not content with the services of the town. They want a hospital and an Arena and others. Most of the population is quite satisfied with what they have received already in the last year, talking about the church, watersupply, electricity, both schools and others, understanding that Access is growing faster than the services can follow and it must be quite hard to administrate.
The Protestors were peaceful though, mostly trying to make understood their desires and needs. By nightfall, they were gone.

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If you drove by or through downtown this morning, you must have asked yourself what happened to the Olsen Pub, right? Well, most of the citizens were surprized to see nothing than rubble from the building was left. Some of them were intrigued, others disappointed to see it gone and some even were mad to have seen it destroyed, this one of the first buildings in Access still standing.
A surprize to all though is that it was planned for several weeks already.
Julie Olsen, the owner of the pub, is getting married soon and also is expecting a child. She wants to move to Sandom, where her boyfriend is already building himself a small buissness. Julie was also tired of the Pub since she never liked the idea of it. Her father is still in prison as we have seen lately and he also wants to do something different with his life once he retires from these security walls. He cannot come back to Access, where he probably will not be welcomed in a friendly way.
So, the Pub was sold a few weeks ago, emptied last week and demolished yesterday evening. It only took the demolition Company a couple of hours to tear it down completely. This morning the rest will be shipped to the garbage disposal site.
The lot was purchased by a group of buissness men from Frampton and rumours are that it was well paid for. It will be rebuild for commercial uses, but exactly what it will be has not been reveiled yet.
Mr Nethaniel Wellington knew about it, so did a few other downtown terrain prospectors, but when Wellington saw the pricetag stuck on the building and lot, he couldn't imagine how to make this not so big terrain profitable to him and he let it go into the hands of those buissness people from Frampton.

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Lately in the last two weeks , several complaints of regular citizens were investigated that in some poorer areas of Access drugdealing has seen the day ....and night. A few of these spots were found and are now being partially surveyed by the police, but no positive suspects are in view yet. The Sherrif, Kyle Roberts went to get some info from the former Sherrif Paul Hubert, because he knows the population a lot better, but Paul is so convinced that it is Johnny B.Bad behind this all, no matter what Roberts was asking.
The Sherriff will keep an eye on these places in the future, but with only one agent available, he won't come up with much.

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The firestation was inaugerated today. It is not bigger, but way more modern and now has 4 fulltime professional firefighters and two trucks, plus one Emergency vehicule. This was one highly costly expense for Mayor Bartlett, but fires cannot rule Access anymore. As soon as the new building was functional, the older one was demolished to make room for more commerces or houses.

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Just in between the residentials of the east and the shopping mall in the west, some smaller commerces popped up. There are a small icecream hut, some specialty stores and a small diner.We need more commercial store choices people are saying.

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Wellington finally made his dream come true and found a terrain for his better and bigger Clubfoods store. He will of course keep the one on Mainstreet as he mentioned earlier that his faithful customers will not be abanodonned. This new building will be bigger and will be able to handle more versatile customers. A big project for Nethaniel again, because another 125,000 § are being invested. The new location is about opposite of the the shopping mall towards east (to Grasslake). Perfect spot he chose, because a lot of new Residents will be build nearby and also a whole Officeblock and other commercials will move in soon.
Although he never owned a car yet, Mr Wellington is seriously thinking to do so now.

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Guy Racsan also announced some interesting news lately. He is building a raceway in Access at the outer point going to the west, just before the highway 15, creating again another 50 or so jobs. The land was bought and plans are in the hands of the architect Riichirou Takahaschi, our specialist in urban and other designing. Mr Racsan wants it to be attractive, clean, practical and useful, since he was talking about testing some of his Companies vehicules also one day. Will he be building cars soon also? The time of the construction has not been mentioned.

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Diarmuid MacGormain is Access's new soccerhero. He was asked to join the "Access Loggers Team" as the youngest player, only 15, last fall to play in this season's tournements (1965) and when the Access Loggers played their first seasonal game in Access yesterday, they won over Sandom 3 to 0, of which 2 of the goals were obtained by Diarmuid. John Gabber wanted him so badly after seeing him with his son Charlie (also best friend) and the neighborkids playing streetsoccer on his road near his home in Bluebay. Diar was proven to be a good idea already and John promissed him to join in a fishing trip with his son Charlie next month in the wild swampy area of the east of Winding River.

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Here's just a overview of today's Access Center's downtown and some plans of what's coming up soon to change the face of it.

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Another big land purchased was done by Paul Donovan, which we believed to be a simple playboying fellow, but Donovan owns as suspected, a big company in Frampton already. Building and construction materials outlets is his speciality. Having come to Access for the last few months on every weekend, he was speculating of what he could invest here in this newly growing region and decided to buy some land north of Access, just outside of Valmore and near Valmore Lake. He also paid good money for the land since it was only delogged a couple of years ago and is still fresh and excellent farmland, but Paul has his way with money and seeing a good deal when it's offered or available.
Mr Donovan also went to see Slye at his sawmill and both signed an important deal already of wooden materials for the next 5 years. Something good for TS again and also very profitable for Donovan, the sawmill being so close and almost no expenses for the transport.

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In Phlox, just over the bridge and on the other side of the mighty Winding River, we've seen the little worker's village before, where most of the loggers and workers come to eat, drink and sleep. This is also the junction of the Sterling Road, that road that leads into the Stoke Mountains entirely owned by Rundi Sterling. George Troy is the guardian of that gate. Now 70 years old, George retired from raising and taking care of Sterling's high-prized horses and he now lives here in Phlox on a little farm that he had built. In the beginning he thought he was going to grow vegetables, but after a few months he understood that it was physically too much for him. So, besides his little bike repair shop in the Phloxvillage, he decided to purchase the little Cantina  in the Worker's village and being very sociable, he had no problem to get the folks to like him and named as Cook Troy.
Here in Sterling's Gate, as people refer to this place, some people started to take more of a serious and permanent settlement and had their livingtrailer installed to always have their family with them.
Access School commission even has a schoolbus coming by now.

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As we can see, Troy lives only a few yards away from his cantina and walks it every day to keep himself in physical shape. His cantina is open from 11 AM to 7 PM, which makes it an 8 hrs day.

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Our soldier, Sgt Badger, in Phlox finally moved into his little home near the sawmill on his 4 acre lot. Still working on the military base, he also found himself a new little passion of growing vegetables in a garden. After a few month of this, harvesting gave Gregory Badger the idea to sell his products on this busy strip of road where he lives on and to make himself a few extra §'s. He built himself a little kiosk with some "scrapwood" that he obtained for little money from the sawmill. Good looking and efficient was all he needed and it wasn't long before people started to stop and at least have a look and some even bought small quantities of his quality veggies.

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On this picture we can see the different landowners of this area south of  the Phlox village. Slye owns a big chunk of the county and wishes to have fully paid his sawmill and to be able to buy more land before the prices get even higher. He and Richard Welder, the outfitter, bought the land for 4 § an acre, only 4 years ago, and today it is worth in between 9 and 12 § an acre, an increase of 100 to 150%, profitable I must say. Who knows what it will be in another 4 years.
The trainstation that Slye and the Railways are planning is about to realize itself. The construction is about to start only in a few weeks, I heard.

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On the opposite of the bridge lays Phlox island and when no bridge existed yet, materials were shipped by barges and boats to the island and to construct the highway and its bridges. Now the little harbours all over this region are being abandonned and brought up for sale.
A young lady from Frampton bought the one little harbour on the westside of Phloxisland for only a few §. Alex Puto, working just above on the bridge was curious to see who would buy a lot like this and for what reason. He met Katie Panskyy down at the harbour and was stunned by her beauty instantly. Miss Panskyy did not yet mention what she has in mind doing with the abandonned harbourlot. Being close to the big bridge it is surely not for a home, I presume.

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Richard Welder from Lakefield is back in the region, opening his lodge and outfitting for those who want to spend some days fishing big Bass. His lodge is just beside the sawmill in Phlox and Slye sometimes comes by and spends an evening or afternoon of relaxation, sometimes alone, sometimes with a customer, like Col Neil Myers from the armybase last fall. Welder's lodge closes from November to April every year.

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Only about a few days ago the population in the Phloxvillage just beside the bridge raised over 100 citizens. They now need a Mayor and a election is planned for June this year, only 2 months from today. Phloxvillage seems to be growing also, although it has nothing much to offer yet, but then again, Access is less that 40 minutes from here, if you take highway 15.
George Troy has rented a little shop here to repair bikes, something he is doing for the last 50 years back in Lakestead. He just moved the whole shop from there. This little repairshop keeps George busy in the winter and on weekends. He makes barely enough money with it to pay the rent and electricity of the building, but he loves it and without any stress he repairs not only bikes but also other small things and motors sometimes, such as chainsaws and lawnmowers.

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I hope that this update was again interesting. Coming up soon: ««Red Alert»»««Red Alert»»««Red Alert»».......unauthorized intrusion on the armybase in West River.
Also, farming has become a passion in Winding River. More and more farmers are moving in. So many that Slye has a problem to find the labour, room and time to supply the demand to cut the logs that are coming in from the landclearing of the farms. What can he do?
Plus, a new job for Johnny B.Badd, he is now selfemployed.

See ya all soon.
Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: ecoba on April 18, 2010, 02:56:44 PM
Great work, Fred. You've certainly been doing excellent work here!  :)

Ethan
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 18, 2010, 06:22:56 PM
Wow, big update. I'm glad the runway is going to be extended. The idea of a raceway is cool, not like I haven't done it, but still cool. Good update.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on April 18, 2010, 07:19:17 PM
Excellent update! I like all the different things you showed and I'm glad you finally found a spot for my store!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: scott1964 on April 18, 2010, 08:32:34 PM
I see Paul is making big plans.  :P $%Grinno$%
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 18, 2010, 09:04:23 PM
I had some free time this weekend for another update, aren't you spoiled?......lol ;)
enjoy.


Update 49      april 13, 1965

Geez, I can't believe these things when they happen. Full grown people, intelligent and well educated and having a professional life doing things that normally little adventurous kids without any resposabilities could only do. This is somehow proof that some of the Sims never grow up.

Sometime during the last weeks a meeting of the regular friday afternoon hero group must have been held somewhere and an invasion plan made to penetrate into the army's base on this week's friday. I'm not sure where it was held, but I suppose John Gabber's cottage is a probability, since they would never have talked about something like this at their weekly meeting at Baby's Biergarten.

Now here is what is happening at this very moment, Saturday, april the 13th, 1965 at around 8:30 AM. The whole municipality of Access, Grasslake, Phlox and even Sandom is freaking out and panicking. Some are already leaving town in a hurry. All sorts of rumours are running around, nothing solid and nothing actually official neither.
Dozens of helicopters in the air all over the valley and the river, tens and tens of army jeeps and trucks on every road and I would say some hundreds of soldiers on foot and horse near and out of the base in West River, Phlox and Valmore north including search dogs.
Reason: The security of the base was seriously tested by some intruders.

Colonel Neil Meyers will have a short pressconference with a few questions to be answered later today, explaining the situation.

Story: John Gabber, Mike Allheimer, Alex Puto, Steve Gibson and TS Slye were implicated somehow in this matter that is about to turn upside down the whole region.
After they have planned to investigate the armybase from the river's side on which is less supervised and watched, they went into action this morning with a canoe and three people, which were flown in by Gibson to the white X location on Chime Lake, which is the source of the West River. It was only a quick "dump and go" landing as Gibson calls it. Once unloaded these three and the canoe, Steve Gibson flew over the eastern mountains, not to suspect the army's radar, back to Access and land on the Grasslake, where John was waiting to pick him up at his cottage.
In the canoe on Chime lake were Mike, Alex and Slye. TS Slye is too young to have experience with this, having no soldier experience whatsoever, but childish adventure needs lurred him into this stupidity with the supposed "grown-ups". Mike is a fulltime warveteran having survived WW II, just like John, knowing all the tricks and trades of being a soldier in the middle of action. Alex has 2 years of local army-experience in the reserve.
Fully equipped with camouflaged clothing, cameras, topographic maps, lights, survival kit for two days and some nonfiring weapons as knives and tools, they paddled into the outlet of Lake Chime, which gets narrower once entering the West River. They looked like that they were about to enter Vietkong at full war, knowing that fridays no army helicopter flies.
This happened this morning at about 8 AM, Friday the 12th, 1965, not too early to make the army ask themselves questions to see an aiplane close to the lake. At about 10 AM, all three arrived at the end of the second riverbend (YellowX),   just about where the armybase starts. There all three landed on the westside of the river (Blue X),    and only Alex and Mike continued on foot to the green X location.
The grey line indicates the trip of Alex, Mike and Slye until the intersection of the orange line, that Slye took from there on.

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Meanwhile Slye took back the canoe into the water, as he was the only one that was dressed as a angler, and followed the orange line a little upriver only to cross the land over to the same river south again. Some traveling over a small strip of land and Slye was back in the river below the army's property at noon (Orange X),   looking as a regular fisherman.
Gibson picked him up at the bridge at 1 PM (pink X),   and driving back to Slye's sawmill and home with Slye, the pickup and the canoe right pass the military gate, where they seem to record everyone passing on the highway's service road.

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At Slye's place they stayed and waited until 4 PM talking about the adventure sofar, when John Gabber arrived with another Pickup, coming to pick up Mike and Alex later at the Red X. Slye and Steve took Steve's car and went to Grasslake where they're all are to meet later this evening. Their part was finished. Slye left a key of a big loghauler to John for later use.

Meanwhile in the dark and heavy wooded forests of West River, Alex and Mike arrived at the green X location at about noon, where they started taking pictures and Alex making plans. Like professional spies they contoured the helicopter's pads and something like a gigantic mountain of plein simple dirt and back into the forest on the northern side. From there follow the grey line to see where they went, zigzag through the woods to arrive at two places close to the base from the northside which is not heavily surveyed, taking pictures and making plans again. They arrived at Location Purple X at around 4 PM, just about the same time when Gabber arrived at the sawmill. Here Mike gave most of his package to Alex showing him the right direction with his compass to go to the pick-up place in Phlox,Red X, keeping nothing than his little survival kit, camera and knife.
Alex went to the Red X alone.
This wasn't planned and Alex did not like the idea of Mike doing it differently taking unnecessary chances of getting caught, but Mike hasn't seen enough yet, becoming more hungry of the base with each step forward.
«« "You're nuts", Alex wispered to Mike behind the bushes close to the two towers,"We got all we wanted, now let's get out of here before we both get caught".
" I want more, I have to see what's beside the towers, that enormous round thing that we barely see with all that piping surely isn't their watersupply pump nor their laundry machine. You go and make sure to be on time for John to pick you up. Tell him to continue our plan as planned and not to worry about me. I will call him at the cottage tomorrow morning. He knows of what I am capable of and he'll tell you also that I'm nuts." Mike said with a smile and turned away.
"You're still nuts. This is almost suicide adventuring yourself right under the nose of the enemy like this. I hope you are what they say you are and what I heard about you is true, otherwise you're dead as the squirrel we just saw. I'll go now, I've had enough adventures for the day. You're nuts." Alex added before leaving and turned to the right direction to the Red X, while Mike approached a little more the end of the bushes to end up with a better view of the base's more busier part and see how well their security actually is.»»

At about 8 Pm, John was already waiting for an hour for Mike and Alex to appear at the Red X. It was getting dark when he saw a small redlight in a ditch about 200 yards away from him. John started the pickup's motor and joined Alex. John was surprized to see only Alex. After a few minutes of explaining, John understood the situation, but surely disapproved it and both left back to the sawmill. John couldn't believe what Mike was up to. He must be nuts!. he said.

Later Alex and John prepared the loghauler, hid all the stuff they brought back through the armybase, including the camouflaged clothes and the canoe on its platform and build some logs around it to camouflage the stuff. Then the hauler was fully loaded and chained with hardwood logs and both drove off to Grasslake with it, to John's cottage as planned. It wasn't unusual to see loghaulers pass by the military gate at almost all hours of day and night, especially now where the sawmill started to work 2 shifts again, so the curious "armygaters" as they were known by the truckers, weren' surprized to see a hauler at this hour. They didn't even turn their heads it seemed.
Once arrived at the cottage, they unloaded the logs, which John will cut up to firewood later, and placed their stuff back in the boxes in the basement where they were before. Slye couldn't believe his ears when John and Alex told about Mike going right into the wolf's mouth. Now what, he asks John and John not being certain of what Mike is doing neither, draw up his shoulder and said that Mike probably pops up at his place later tonight.

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Slye decided to go back to the sawmill, taking back the empty hauler. When he arrived at his home near the sawmill, TS hurried to his phone to call up Mike, who was quietly drinking a beer with Gibson and Alex, talking about the event.
««" Dammmmmn it John, Mike has serious problems" he screamed loudly into the phone and said it so quickly that John had to make him repeat to understand.
"Whoaaaa, slow down Terry, what do you mean Mike has serious problems, did you see him?" By this time everyone in John's cottage was up on their feet and beside John to hear in the conversation of both.
"No, but I just drove by the military gate and the gate is wide open, all kinds of vehicules are on the road, spotlights everywhere and it seems the towers and the base in the woods are heavily lit up. Besides that some helicopters are hovering all over the base and I could hear something like a sirene in the distance" taking a deep breath , Slye continued, "I'm sure they got Mike. I hope that the idiot didn't climb the towers or went right into them, dam it!"
After a small time of silence John answered, "Ok, let's not panic. Mike is surely ok, I know him well enough for that. I don't know why they're alarmed, maybe it's just a drill or something.....Mike will knock on your door in a couple of minutes, I'm almost certain. He never got caught doing things like this, never."
"There's always a first time, John, don't forget that he's fifty now ", Slye said in an extreme worrying voice, "and I don't like all this stirring around the base."
"Fifty or not, he's in better shape than me and you combined. We can't do anything anyways," John replied, " all we can do is wait. He said to Alex that he will get in contact with us in the morning. Tomorrow is Saturday. Alex said he will call me....Now go to bed and sleep , we'll see each other tomorrow at Barby's, ok?"
Terry nervously agreed and hang up.»»

Back to today, saturday morning, where everyone in Access thinks that the gasleak in West River is about to explode or something because of all the action in and around the army's base. All Tv and Radio stations have already informed the public that at noon Colonel Meyers will have a pressconference on this matter and they also said that it is nothing else than a simple intrusion during the night.

It is 8:30 AM at Slye's home, he's still sleeping like a baby. It must have him stressed out last night enough to knock him out.

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Someone knocks heavily on the door several times.....Terry jumped up all nervous. That must be the army, they know, he thinks. That's it, we're cooked......... Taking a big breath and ready to face the resposability, he slowly opens the door of his home.
"Hi there", a voice said before the whole door opened, " Can I use your phone?" Slye almost lost his legs beneath his stressed body. There was Mike with a big smile on a dirty face, dressed in a tight jogging suit in front of him.
" I have to call John now".
*What the hell have you been doing, man?" Slye screamed at Mike who was all surprized to see him that jumpy, "We are going nuts here and you take a walk in the woods during the night. What happened? Did they catch you? Where do you come from and what......", Slye was interupted with a loud, "Stop! I wasn't caught, ok? Nothing happened. Nothing! Why are you so damn fired up at me?" Mike asked in a solid voice while he entered the house and closed the door behind him.
"Well, all the alarm and action at the military base last night were surely not a coincidence, now were they?" Slye looked at Mike seriously with both hands on his hips.
" No," Mike answered very calmly," I was the responsable for that, but don't worry....lol....you should go outside and have a look around this morning, it looks like the whole army and airforce from Lakestead just arrived", he said with a laughter," Can I make that call now and maybe take a shower?....Oh....., you got some clothes for me too? I got hose from a clothesline at the neighbor's place up the road, I think it's the soldier's place with his veggies"»»

Slye almost collapsed to see Mike so calm and unworried about the whole matter as it was a normal thing to him to have moved the complete army of Simland. Mike called up John, explaining quickly the situation and went to take his shower and get dressed. Once finished he said " Let's go to Barby's and have a nice breakfast with the guys, I'm hungry".
All that is almost too much to Terry, looking for the carkeys.

They left Slye's home and headed toward Access Center. It is 10 AM now and Mike wasn't kidding when he said that he woke up the whole army and airforce in Lakestead. Mike drove and told Slye to shut up whatever happens. Once on the highway heading south, they got intercepted by the police and a military truck near the gate, asking for identification. Mike as uninhibited as always asked the MP (military Police) what all the fuzz is about, pointing at the helicopters over the base and river. Not getting an answer he tried again while the Sherriff's adjoint was going through the papers, "Don't tell me you lost your Colonel ?"  
The soldier asked where they come from and where they are going . Mike said with a big smile that the beer was a little rough last night at his friend's place, that he slept there and now is going for a mansized breakfast in a restaurant in Access and he also asked the MP if he wanted to join them.
Shortly after, both were released to continue. Mike couldn't help asking Slye who was about to crack, " Hope you didn't wet your pants?"
Terry Slye likes some adventures once in awhile, but nothing compared like this. This simply stressed him out completely. He looked Mike right into his eyes and said " I've had enough, so don't push it"
Mike didn't need to hear more, knowing that TS was about to explode.

pic 5
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Arriving at Barby's Biergarten at 11 AM, everyone said to be there was already drinking strong coffee that Barby White had made especially on the demand by John. Everyone seemed to be calm when Slye and Mike entered the room. Mike with a very big innocent looking smile sat down besides Alex and asked, " So, how was your little trip yesterday?" Alex only shook his head.

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At the Tv screen, Barby openes the volume, showing the Colonel entering the pressconference room again. Everyone turned over to see this.

Again, I will not get into every detail of the Colonel's speech, but here is what's most important.
He announced that there was a leak in the army's base security system and that someone from outside penetraded the interiors of some buildings.
«« "What exactly he was looking for or was doing there is not yet known."the Colonel said," We have blocked every road and access to and from the base and it will be only a matter of hours before we find him."
Mike looked at everyone and shook his head negatively.
The Colonel continued: "The whole area around the base is under surveillance at this moment and that since late last night. An individual of about 35 years old was caught on a two different surveillance camera's near the Valve towers at midnight. He was dressed in camouflaged clothing looking like those from the army. If anyone has seen or is about to see this character, please inform either the local sherriff or the army about it. It will be highly appreciated."
Mike looked at John this time and said sacastically: " Hey, they got my picture on candid camera now, oh geeez, I forgot to clean my face and take of my balaclava" (see picture below)

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The Colonel continued: " There is nothing to worry about at this moment, and please folks do not panic everytime when the base is activated in such a matter. I heard all kinds of different stories on the streets this morning, like that the base is about to blow up and poisoning the whole region. Nonsense, the valves are secured and not dangerous enough to even have my wife worried."»»


Now you Readers can ask a few questions to the Colonel again during this pressconference, you got two days to do so. Don't forget you don't know anything about what Mike and Alex have discovered yet. (open to everyone)


The Colonel continued with some more bla-bla trying to assure the population that this is a insignificent incident, while the guys looked at each other. Alex opened his mouth and worrily asked:  " Haven't we gone a little too far here?"
"I'm a pure Simlander and I have the right to know the truth, even if the truth may kill me," Mike said," and that is exactly what I was doing since these bummers don't even have the heart or courage to say the truth. So I went to get it myself"[/color]

Then Mike started explaining what he saw yesterday and last night, keeping his voice down, and explaining everything in every detail possible.
Alex, John, Terry and Steve were all ears.


.....to be continued

A little teaser from next update's picture series.......Details of the base.

Fred

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Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: marsh on April 18, 2010, 09:07:22 PM
Oh...... My..... God..... I Remember this MD from update.... like 5! I commented once then completly forgot about it! I loved it then and ill probably love all the updates inbetween then and now. I still cant belive i forgot about this! So, to show im sorry..... an elephant...  &dance
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on April 19, 2010, 12:06:42 AM
superb update.... thats a mighty big extractor fan you have going there.... considering you are meant to be leaving the Porolium underground sealed, i think the colonel has a few more questions to answer.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on April 19, 2010, 08:00:01 AM
That is a mighty fine couple of updates. Johnny B Badd is proving too smart for the local authorities :)

Also, that teaser pic is pretty creepy. Looks like some sort of nuclear reactor.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on April 19, 2010, 09:45:29 AM
That's quite the teaser shot!  What an odd looking building!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on April 19, 2010, 03:05:28 PM
oh very interesting!  ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 19, 2010, 04:33:48 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on April 18, 2010, 09:04:23 PM
that enormous round thing that we barely see with all that piping surely isn't their watersupply pump nor their laundry machine.

Ha! Thats good stuff!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 19, 2010, 05:04:18 PM
OMG. That story is by far the best so far! And Mike is right, what is in the huge tank? Poisonous gases?

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on April 19, 2010, 07:43:15 PM
"Colonel, do you know how the intruder got past your security? I would have thought that as the army you would have better security?"
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 19, 2010, 08:05:17 PM
Quote from: canyonjumper on April 19, 2010, 07:43:15 PM
"Colonel, do you know how the intruder got past your security? I would have thought that as the army you would have better security?"

Colonel Meyers:

"At this precise moment we do not exactly know how the intruder was able to penetrate into the base without being detected before, but we will find out and correct the situation. While this base is not considered as of any particular interest to anyone, we have not yet looked totally into a 100 % security system. Also is the Porolium gas valve not of any immediate danger, only a lock is separating the valve with the exterior. However, we already have security specialists looking into the matter to improve the security on the site.
May I add that this probably is only someone that was curious to see how the military was building the new base, nothing else.  A new invention that detects mouvements is being installed at this very moment all over the base's limits."
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on April 20, 2010, 02:11:24 AM
Question from the public, not at all related to Mr. Slye. If the base is solely for Porolium containment (which, as you've assured us is safe) and for troop training, why all the hubbub for one guy who you believe was just there to look around? The increased military presence has been quiet significant.

Nice update Fred. I've noticed I've fallen one or two behind here, but I'll have a look and try to leave a slightly more detailed comment. In the meantime, I just thought I'd throw my hat in the ring for Q&A time with the Col.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 20, 2010, 12:41:39 PM
Quote from: threestooges on April 20, 2010, 02:11:24 AM
Question from the public, not at all related to Mr. Slye. If the base is solely for Porolium containment (which, as you've assured us is safe) and for troop training, why all the hubbub for one guy who you believe was just there to look around? The increased military presence has been quiet significant.

Col Meyers:

"Every security breech for any reason on federal land that has been marked to stay off or no trespassing, is considered by the army as breaking the law and will therefore be treated as such. Like I said before, the base was not openend in this area because of the Porolium Gas, but it seemed to be a very suitable place for a new base exactly what the army was looking for lately. The increase of the population on the base is mainly caused by the workers the base needs to construct all the buildings that we need at this moment and to get ourselves installed properly....Any more questions?"

, and the Colonel was looking around the pressconference room with a smile seeing a lot less faces than the last time.

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on April 20, 2010, 01:33:38 PM
Nice to see that Sgt. Badger just got a new place, though I'm sure he's a little put out by all the crawling around hither and yon through the woods. Wonder how long it'll take before they realize he's no longer in the containment zone.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 20, 2010, 01:35:16 PM
Question for the Colonel: "What would, in theory, happen to the person if caught?"

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 20, 2010, 02:23:38 PM
Quote from: KoV Liberty on April 20, 2010, 01:35:16 PM
Question for the Colonel: "What would, in theory, happen to the person if caught?"

Alex

Col Meyers

"As this does not to seem to be a offensive intrusion, the individual will be hold and questioned and probably temporarily released  until we decide to press or not charges on him.  At this moment we have no idea at all what the character was doing there and what he had in mind to do. We'll find out later today when we catch him....still any questions?"

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 20, 2010, 02:44:44 PM
"What should the people of Access do? Is it safe to come back? If somebody sees said individual, should he/she turn them in?"
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on April 20, 2010, 04:13:01 PM
"Do you believe this guy is associated with any of the Western or Eastern Bloc nations?"
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 20, 2010, 07:22:16 PM
Thank you for your participation in this press conference again and also thanks for all the comments, glad to see everyone here, also glad that you like it.

Quote from: Cyclone1001 on April 20, 2010, 02:44:44 PM
"What should the people of Access do? Is it safe to come back? If somebody sees said individual, should he/she turn them in?"

Colonel Meyers:

"I don't think any danger was there since the beginning. The individual filmed at three occasions was totally unarmed and therefore not an offensive intrusion was alerted. Only a few of the citizens panicked again for no reason and I hope that this will be a lessons and that you understand that there is no danger whatsoever.
We surely would appreciate any information on this subject if possible."

Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on April 20, 2010, 04:13:01 PM
"Do you believe this guy is associated with any of the Western or Eastern Bloc nations?"

Colonel Meyers:

"There is certainly no political attachement to this incident, whether western, northern or eastern. Everyone should know by now that nothing here is interesting enough to be spied on."

Then suddenly the Colonel picked up his notebook and said these words into the micro before leaving the room: " Thank you all for your understanding and support. When we have further news about this incident, the Lakestead newsgroup will surely be informed. Thank you, the conference is now over."

Update 50   the next morning......

After the Colonel's speech on TV, Mike just said. "Garbage, total garbage, everything he says is to make us believe something else than what really is. We saw it and it's way beyond our comprehension why they're doing all this, surely not for the gas nor anything else. This is not a regular base I say!. They even have made the skullrocks disappeared. The towers are standing right on top where they used to be and no signs of them, archeological proof my ***.......Did he say, he's got three pictures of me? Liar, I only got blinked twice"

After calming himself with help from all the others, Mike  then started explaining the adventure they all had.

«« When Slye took off with the canoe, Alex and I walked through the forest towards the base and about in a hour we came to an open spaced areal and saw lots of gravel and rocks on the side of the river. A real big mound of it. Minetrucks every 20 seconds and bulldozers by the dozen. Alex made a detailed plan of that area and I took a couple of pictures."
Alex gave the hand-drawn plan to John.
" We spent a good two hours in and around that area, trying to figure out what is where and why. There's some big excavation going on there..............and I mean big. That pile of gravel must have been at least 200 by 150 yards large and about 45 yards high, and we found out later that it comes from a giant underground entrance just on the other side of the road. Just like I said, one mine truck after the other, non stop, in and out. How come we never saw a minetruck on the road being transported there by the way? And we all thought that they said that there's no excavation on the base?"
"Strange though, what are they excavating anyways?....so damn close to the river too.?" asked Slye, scratching himself behind his left ear.
"I have no idea, but definitively it seems to be damn important and big. If it would have been in the mountains, I would have thought that it might have something to do with a shelter or something with the coldwar, but it ain't, the terrain couldn't be any flatter and wetter there. It's hardly more than 4 meters higher than the river's wayterlevel."

pic1
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"We then turned a little back to contour the busy road that leads right to the traintracks that come from Phlox and go to Access. Near the traintracks is a big flat asphalt lot with the helicopters, about 6 or 7 of them, just small ones, no transporters. So we believe nothing is being shipped out from the base neither not by air anyways and the traintracks do not have anyplace to load or unload anything, unless it is removable. On that part of the base we did not see one military person, they were all civil or civil dressed. That was curious also, right Alex?" ,and Mike looked at Alex who immediatly was nodding positively to totally agree witht he words from Mike.

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"We went then from there over the tracks and all around the western end of the base, where no fences have been installed yet. Nothing much of security there at all, but who would go through here to reach the base?.....ehem, besides Alex and I?" and he looked smilingly at Alex again who was just shaking his head and smiled a little bit.
" Once on the other side," he continued, "we came to where the towers are. They're big and high alright and way bigger in reality than we thought. There are also a lot of other shorter or very long hangars beside them, other smaller towers,  plus we saw a lot of piled enormous steelbeams just beside those hangars, they seemed to be galvanized. Those beams were everywhere. Again Alex made a plan."
....and Alex handed over another piece of paper to John, Slye and Steve.

pic3
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"Then shortly after I sent Alex to the pickup place, I crawled closer to the border of the bushes to check their security system. Everything's new there, so I thought, they probably didn't even install any cameras and floodlights yet. So I waited for the night to fall while eating my cookiebar. Then I fell asleep."
"You whattt?" Alex asked not sure that he heard right, "How in the world could you sleep at a time like this right on the base?"
Mike all innocent looking said to Alex, "All you have to do is being a little tired, get comfortable and close your eyes. We got up early that morning, remember?."
Then John slapped his forehand, not wanting to believe what Mike just said.
"Anyways," Mike continued, "When I woke up at around 20 hours, it was dark and as I suspected, there weren't many lights on the base, since they're still constructing most of the base. But let me tell you, there's more action and movement on that base than downtown Lakestead at rushhour. They continue all sorts of construction all through the night, trucks driving through at an interval of 10 to 30 seconds. One really has to hurry up crossing roads and not to be seen or even get run over.
I went towards the towers to get a better look of this big round building that was just in front of it. Wow, I don't know what it could serve for, but this is another big building with a giant pipe coming out of it in the middle and making a roaming sound that seems to be coming from the inside, almost sounding like far away thunder. I tried to get into the building which didn't seemed to be surveyed that much and then when it happened, a first picture of me was made. I saw the camera about a half a second to late and looked right into it when the flash went off. Well, they got my picture for their family album now,"  Mike told looking at everyone with a small smile.

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"That's bad, ooohh.......that's really bad." Steve said and looked down his cup to see if he had another mouthful of coffee left,
"nahhh, don't worry Steve, " Mike said, " I had my mask on. They only know now that I have blue eyes.....hahaha."
Meanwhile John ordered more coffee form the waitress and the others went through the plans that Alex made, Mike continued to talk about the rest of that evening alone on the base.
" It was only a few seconds after that the alarm on the base went on and I had to get out of there I thought, but I stayed nearby, on the other side of that giant building, hiding within the hundreds and hundreds of woodenboards with Slye's Commercial stamp on them." and Mike took a severe turn to Terry to see what he had to say about this.
" Look guys, I told you before, buissness is buissness, I can't talk much about the contract with the federal Government, IM not allowed to, besides I don't know any details whatsoever what they are being used for, all I know, the contact is big and for at least a year." Slye then helplessly looked at John, who added, " Slye can't say anything and we all understand, subject is closed. Nothing from this will clear anything up anyways, ok?"
" So what happened then?" Steve asked Mike.

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"Well, I didn't stay hidden too long, and as soon as I saw that the wood is being transported through the giant doors of the towers, I suspected that they're going underground. By now I thought, it would be swarming with security and soldiers, but none I saw were alerted too much, so I went towards the towers again, this time around the backside and through the woods. I came to this building a little away from all the others that looked like a pumping station, it made a lot of humming like noise inside."

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"I was close to the fence near the river, but then I saw a sign that the fence was electric and I didn't want to take chance I went back to the river passing by the back of the towers. By now I heard some helicopters in the back woods and some floodlights turning on in front of the towers."
"That's exactly when I went back to my place driving on the highway, I saw those helicopters and those lights in the back and I thought, that's it, Mike's dead." Slye quickly interupted the story.
"Oh c'mon, dead? No one shoots no one for any small intruding reason like this, " Mike said.
" We have done too much and I am not proud of myself at all," John suddenly dropped into the conversation," We acted like little kids, playing around with something possibly dangerous and putting up everything we have. We will never do this again. Hope that's clear" Everyone positively nodded and agreed with John,
"So what happened after that, how did you finally get out of there without getting caught?" John asked while he turned back to Mike.
"Ha ha, I didn't leave right away, I went into one of the towers."
"You Whattt?",  again Alex couldn't help asking if he heard right and then turned to everyone else pointing a finger on Mike, shaking his head and said: "He's NUTS, I told ya!"

With a proud smile like a little boy Mike continued, " I was there, I had the chance and I took advantage of it, but.......unfortunelty I didn't go far. The tower inside seems to be divided into several different departments. I saw one where they had several elevators, like four of five of them side by side, open and wide enough to hold and transport a lot of stuff at the same time. No one was there. I wasn't going to take one of them and really go deep into the "Wolf's" mouth, but I took the stairs beside them and went down for one more floor realizing that the entrances were double locked below. So we know now that it goes down underground.....Funny, I didn't see any valves though or anything that could lead to a valve.
By the way, the air is moisture controlled, very dry below ground, which is not normal either, the cement walls were white, almost chalked like.
At that time I just had seen all what I was able to see and went back up another stairs to get the hell out of there as soon as possible, that's when another profile shot of me was taken, just at the towers exit. I just went straight to the river then, realizing that two helicopters were already surveying the waters. That's it I thought, I'll spend the next nights in a military prison, but then I saw that most of the soldiers, jeeps, trucks, lights and helicopters were concentrated on the river's side, I had the idea to take a long walk and go right through the thick forest, where no one would suspect me, down to the northern Access road. A long walk in the night, let me tell you that."
(see yellow line on last picture below)

"I got to the road at about 7 am this morning, went to a nearby home there, no one home, where some clothes were on the line outside, took the jogging and the sweater, somewhat a smaller size, and the bicycle and headed to Slye's place as quick as possible, hoping no one would ask questions about me being on the road at this time in joggings on a bike. And that's it when I caught Slye sleeping like a baby."
Mike ended his story with a little knock on the table and then calling out to the waitress: "We're ready for our brunch now, Miss".

"Where's the camera?" John asked.
Mike: "It's in the car, I'll bring it to Teddy Trenton in Bluebay on Monday morning, he will not ask any questions."
"Ok, you make sure to get the negatives from him."
"Right"
"Where are those clothes you had on you?" John again.
"They're burried deep somewhere in the ditch near that home"
"Hope you didn't leave your id cards in them."
"lol, no we had nothing to identify ourselves on us"
"Good, what you do with the bike?"
"Oh yeah, the bike.....well, it's somewhere on the bottom of the river near Slye's riverwalls, sorry, I didn't want to leave it anywhere else."
"Good enough, Mike"

"Let's eat now", Steve added to finish this conversation. "I'm hungry."
....and everyone agreed.»»

After the brunch, everybody went back to their home to either relax or sleep after such a stressful 24 hours although that they do not know very much more than before, but the curiosity stays on in the group, all doubting now for sure that this base has nothing to do with a gasleak.
The army still had trucks, jeeps and helicopters driving and flying all over the area all day, but the population itself seemed to have calmed down by the end of the day.

Hope you like this adventure. I'm pretty sure that more is to come one day, I can't believe that they just leave it at this, right?

Here are two more views of today's military base in West River.

Fred ;)

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Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: scott1964 on April 20, 2010, 07:43:43 PM
Paul says "Interesting, very interesting."  $%Grinno$% :P ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on April 20, 2010, 08:39:54 PM
Nice! It's great that Mike escaped from the clutches of the military without being caught. He's a $%#Ninj2. Great pics ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on April 20, 2010, 09:05:13 PM
ICBM Silo?

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 21, 2010, 04:03:19 AM
Nah, but it has to do with weapons of some kind. I say stealth bombers.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on April 21, 2010, 11:08:45 PM
Wow! Again, I miss a few weeks and I have soo much to catch up on, great updates and the situition at the Army base just keeps getting more and more intruiging!

_Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on April 22, 2010, 01:28:01 AM
great new custom content creations, and the story just intrigues.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 22, 2010, 01:42:23 PM
No flipping way that thing is for a gas leak, its way too big. Very interesting...

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on April 23, 2010, 07:12:22 PM
It's amazing how quick things went from a nice quiet river valley to... THIS!  The story keeps getting more and more interesting!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 23, 2010, 08:03:37 PM
Thanks for commenting.
Still a lot of answers to be found. True, that things have gone from a very quiet, almost not important place, to the number one talks in Simland. ..Ahhhh, that army of theirs, keeping secrets from them and telling them what they should believe in.......

ICBM silo?....nah....too big too evident and no "latch"? Other weapons or stealth I doubt also, no landing strip.....? Then that gas....hm.....Porolium, said not to be dangerous, but if that big round thing is a valve.....wow...talking about not being dangerous in a "small size"?
Nah, couldn't be this either.

This weekend we will have a look at the agriculture in the valley, seemingly wanting to take over the landscapes in some areas. Land for agriculture is cheap, almost given to you, if you are willing to do some serious farming. The fertile flats of the rivers terrains are one ideal location to grow the best staple foods in Simland and a lot of it too. Some areas have more than others, some are concentrated in this while others grow better that. They even from some small communities, almost villages.
Now Access Center absolutely needs a freight station, one where all that unrefined food can be shipped to bigger Centers like Lakestead and Frampton.
Agriculture is a good source of income, employment and stability for a region and irl probably something no country can do without. Food doesn't grow on shelves in stores as most cityfolks seem to think.
I can remember a little girl that once visited my home a few years back with her parents who were my friends from New York downtown and I took that girl with me to get some fresh eggs in my chicken scoop, asking me why I *keep* my eggs there? Hm, she actually thought that I bought the eggs and stored them with the chicken in the scoop for some reason.....and that girl was 8 years old. Oh boy, that marked me for life.....lol.

Anyways, in Simland things are different and agriculture is "blooming", so to speak. We will see a lot of farm custom lots by Nexis. ;)

Have a nice weekend

Fred

Ps: something to *Hmmm?* about... ;)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg96.imageshack.us%2Fimg96%2F4628%2Fc1mystery.jpg&hash=88a89ded5111b434872aeb68618ff537b3e81faf)

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on April 23, 2010, 08:56:30 PM
Hmmm is right...  I think there's some kind of aircraft underground.  After all, there is a ramp-looking thing that says "hangar" on it...  airplane hangar?

I remember back to the movie Independence Day when Will Smith flies the alien spacecraft back to the mother ship to blow it up... the "opening" that they shot out of looked a lot like that!

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on April 24, 2010, 04:38:46 AM
is that a possible gas leak?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 24, 2010, 06:51:24 AM
VTOL Stealth aircraft? It can happen. Looks like fog to me...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 24, 2010, 07:13:07 PM
Quote from: Cyclone1001 on April 24, 2010, 06:51:24 AM
VTOL Stealth aircraft? It can happen. Looks like fog to me...

Fog? Aircraft? Gasleak?
Hm......

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg171.imageshack.us%2Fimg171%2F6549%2Fwestrivermystery2.jpg&hash=fe656b3991ad0614c9bfbcde917e29a69b62fe6f)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on April 25, 2010, 03:50:53 AM
Ok, Im gonna guess this is something supernatural/aliens at work. The drama is killing me!

The last update was great - certainly a lot is going on in Access.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on April 25, 2010, 04:14:10 AM
Hey Fred

The Winding River certaily has something strange and difficult to identify or classify there. So I did a Google seach and think that it has something to do with the angle of the city to the Sun at the point of its closest position to the Sun. . .

- Jim
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on April 25, 2010, 05:00:01 AM
I'm putting money on Photoshop...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 25, 2010, 07:43:56 AM
Computers werent invented until the 90s. :P This is the 60s. Very interesting Fred. And to all who think about aircraft, forget it. It would be impossible for an aircraft to land underground like that, unless they are special-type aircraft or if its a helicopter hangar. These are a few excerpts from Wikipedia:

"Hangars may be used as an enclosed repair shop or, in some cases, an assembly area. Additionally, hangars keep secret aircraft hidden from satellites or spyplanes." The Winding River Region would be perfect to keep things hidden because it is rural.

"A hangar is a closed structure to hold aircraft and/or spacecraft in protective storage."

While they are normally used for airplanes, they can also be used in these forms. You guys were righ about the airplanes, just most likely not in the right context. Airships can also be part of it. Now, the only plane (that im aware of) in the world that might take off like that is a Harrier Jump Jet. It takes off vertically using V/STOL Thrusters. However, the plane was introduced in 1969. A few years later than this present storyline, true that helicopters can also be housed in here as well, but as of the previous update they can and are housed outside. And just to throw in a crazed idea from GTA San Andreas, the Area 69 in there has a similar entrance, and there is a experimental Jetpack being housed inside there. What this holds, I have no idea.

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: cubby420 on April 25, 2010, 10:59:46 AM
KoV: the first electronic computers were created in the 1940s.

Interesting developments. My money's on an easily explained anomaly created by light reflecting off of an experimental high altitude government weather balloon.  ;D  ;)

...or so I'm told...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on April 25, 2010, 11:45:23 AM
Looking forward to the update! I have no idea what that is ;D

             -Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 25, 2010, 08:22:22 PM
Geeez, I wasn't able to make it and upload the next update this weekend, sorry. I had to finish my GRV Challenge 7 first and now I am preparing the judging for it.
I guess I will have to report this update to a later date this week, hopefully before the month is over.

nedalezz, don't get killed by the drama yet, there's still a lot more to come.....;) You say aliens and/or something supernatural?...Hmmmmm, good reasoning though.

jmyers2043, Yap some good active imagination there.....lol ;) Glad to see you here again.

Cyclone1001 , If I were you, I wouldn't bet on photoshop, because let me tell you this: I don't know why it is in this specific city or how it came to be l;ike this, but the lightring around the corner of the city tile couldn't be more real. There's no photoshopping there, nor any other logical explanantion why it is there and what it is. To me this is simply a coincidence, because I myself can't explain it, it is a mystery just my lightenings that occured near electrical cabling or powerplants. Simply not explainable.
Funny or strange though that it happened right in this citytile where I am planning the mysterious armybase......lol.


KoV Liberty, A lot of good logical explanations here, but I don't know about the aircraft theory, even if there's an underground hangar.

cubby420, Who told you about the weatherbaloon?....  ???

See you all later this week. Thanks for reading, and posting

Fred

canyonjumper, one day it will be reveiled I guess....;)

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on April 26, 2010, 12:59:41 AM
so its a light based phenomenon, ball lightning>?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on April 26, 2010, 09:34:51 AM
Very strange stuff going on!  Nice couple of updates!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: cubby420 on April 28, 2010, 09:30:07 AM
...a little birdie told me... ::)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 28, 2010, 07:02:31 PM
@Cubby: I meant  a computer that inst the size of a warehouse or something.

Btw Fred, I might not be on much until Tuesday because my Internet is out (I'm on a phone right now ;)).

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 28, 2010, 08:15:55 PM
Quote from: KoV Liberty on April 28, 2010, 07:02:31 PM

Btw Fred, I might not be on much until Tuesday because my Internet is out (I'm on a phone right now ;)).

Alex

No prob Alex, you don't have to tell me. I see who is around and not and not being here for a week or two or even more, does not mean I will abandon Alex Puto that fast. ;) Good luck with the Internet.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on April 29, 2010, 12:45:41 PM
QuoteI see who is around and not

???  should I be worried?

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 29, 2010, 01:07:39 PM
Quote from: jmyers2043 on April 29, 2010, 12:45:41 PM
???  should I be worried?



lol....you got a reason to be?.....lol ???
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on April 29, 2010, 03:24:00 PM
Whatever that glowing thing is, it seems to be important enough to build a road out to it from the army base. Apparently, someone's really interested in it.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 29, 2010, 03:51:32 PM
Well, it seems the construction company screwed up the wiring. I have Internet! Lol.

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 04, 2010, 06:18:51 PM
Update 51   June 1965

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg402.imageshack.us%2Fimg402%2F4393%2Fwrp1965whole.jpg&hash=8f88dc5ecae4e6c4f63ecfd2f702bd7fd3acc923)

Let's talk about farming a little bit in this update.

We know that farmland has been inexpensive in the Access area and in almost all the valley. The Government even offers very low interest long term subsidy loans for the young farmers who are willing to spend their lifes as farmers in this fertile valley. This had a substancial influence on the developments of farming in the last five years. We haven't seen it grow because we have been busy looking at downtown Access ' growth and changes and other things, plus we have kept our eyes and ears in West River on the armybase, but the region is actually being invaded by famrlands since the last few years.
Below you can see the difference on an aerial picture between 1960 and today, 1965, and not only a difference with farming but also the town, the way it has spred in all four directions.

pic2
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Only one really knew what was going on. TS Slye, the man that buys all the logs that come from the clearing of lands being transformed for farming. He's been buying and buying ever since without saying anything to anyone. Maybe he thinks it wasn't important to talk about.
This is what John and his father Henry Gabber all of sudden realized driving on the way from their cottage in Grasslake to Access. Farms and farms and farms it seems alongside the Grasslake and Access road.

pic4
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««" What happened?" father Henry asks all of sudden John who was driving the pickup to the town. "Where did all those farms come from, geeez?"
" I know Dad, I have seen all the changes in the last two years or so but never really bothered with it. They grow like mushrooms. The pilot, you know that Gibson fellow I talked about last week, he told me the other day that he drove to Lakestead on the access road west and that farms there actually have been totally taking over the landscape. Forest are considered as a rarity. He said that all those forests that were on the Access Heights are literally gone and only small landstripes still have trees on the flats. You can see it even better by plane. But since I lost Rusty Rover in the lake the other day, I haven't flown"
"Where did all that wood go to?" Henry asks again.
"Well I know that Slye must has bought a good part of it, the army is eating up a lot of it lately  too and all the other went probably directly to Lakestead, where they have a population boom, babyboomers they call them, and construction is like mad there, needing a lot of wood of course."

pic5a
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"Farmers clear their land and get good money for it, so much that they can have the terrain leveled in exchange, drained and worked on, so.....it's a fortune wheel like event and that is exactly why farms bloom these days here in the valley."
"Let's drive to the Access Heights, I wanna see those farms, haven't been there for three years. You haven't got anything else to do today anyways, don't ya?"
"Nah," John said, "I have he weekend off, we go have lunch after, ok?"»»

pic6
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So John and Henry drove right through Access Center, admiring the new highway intersection of Hwgy15 at the exit of town which they haven't see yet neither and then started the small climb to the Access Heights. What they saw what exactly what Mike told John. Farms and farms and nothing else than farms. Hardly any forest left standing in the vicinity and only way back on the hills could one still see a lot of trees gathered together. Henry was astonished to see so much land cleared in that little time, amazed how Sims have worked hard in the past five years. But there was also a small glow of sadness in his eyes, having lost all those fantastic thick and green forests forever.

pic7
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Coming to a small intersection almost at the end of the Winding River Region, Henry asked where that road leaded, but John could only nod negatively and say that he never took that road and has no idea at all. Henry told his son to take the new road and see for themselves where it leads.  
pic8
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They went back down the heights again, right back into the valley but this time north and almost northwest. Far away from the hill, they could see the big Chimelake when Henry said :  "Do you think that the road goes right down to the lake now?" and he looked at John who only mumbled "Let's go and see".

pic9
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Again through more farmland that they have never seen before, they finally reached the banks of the Chime lake. A first for them, since they didn't even know that it was possible to come here by car. Already some houses or cottages have appeared on the beaches and farms here also have invaded as much as was possible.
««"How is his possible?" asked Henry again to break the silence since their arrival on the lake. "Geeez, I thought it wasn't too long ago that we flew over the region and were asking ourselves if it would ever be possible to come here by road?"
"Dad", said John, "That was 4 years ago, looks like a lot has changed and we haven't looked around I guess. I wonder if it is the same elsewhere in the valley. We should do this every friday."
"Yes, I would like to know that also, I can now understand why the town is so full of Sims on friday evenings and weekends, they all come in from the country", Henry added while getting back into the pickup, " Let's go back to Access and have lunch now at Barby's."»»

pic10
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Oh yes, one can be surprised taking the same route everyday for a few months or years what can happen and change elsewhere in the neighborhoods. In all four directions the farming communities have spred and changed the landscapes of the region. Let's have a small visit to all those places they saw and didn't yet see now.

Starting in Grasslake, the municipality itself hasn't much grown, the road is still on gravel and all the Sims still have to go to Sandom or Access for their groceries and things. But here also land has been cleared lately and farms start to show through the forests. Most of Grasslake is privately owned and owners do not wish to clear their land, so total clearing is almost impossible for the at least the next years to come.
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Also are farms getting richer, with cleared land with little cost, they can grow more and more. Some folks have created familyfarms, where the whole family shares the wealth. Like this giant turkey and chicken farm that sells some of their products by the side of the road. Just look at the house, income must have been good in the last years.

pic12
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Or look at the size of this pigfarmer, producing bacon, ham and porcshops in big quantities. The owner doesn't even live here anymore, they moved to the Grasslake and have their workers take care of the farms.

pic13
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Here below is another chicken farmer, they must produce them by the thousands. Chicken are in great demand, even the KFC in Access downtown, right in front of Wellington's appartments, buy their chicken here. It only takes about 12 weeks to grow a chicken to a reasonable size.

pic14
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Then there are other livestock farms, like gost, horses, rabbits, ducks and sheep as in the picture below. Sheep farmers only lately started to come to the Access area and mostly seem to stay on higher and dryer grounds like here in Access Heights. There aren't many yet, because the demand, even in the big cities isn't very high.

pic15
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Most of the livestock farms and the biggest also, are the beef and dairy farms, producing meat, milk and milkproducts such as yoghurt and cheese. Some of these farms are immense needing a lot of land for pastures and feed, such as hay, grains and silage. Some farmers buy out their neighbors one by one to enlarge their terrain needed so much. Cattle farms are expensive to run though and need a lot of help. That is good for the economy again, hiring workers full or spare time shares the wealth of the valley.

pic16
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Here is a last look of the Access Heights farmlands, where at this moment the biggest farms are. No forests of 2 or more acres can be found here anymore, most of the land is cleared and seeded for livestock feed, fruitbearing trees and livestock grazing. The land is rich, freshly deforested and excellent for growing all they need. Slightly hilly and on a slope, this land drain easily and is never wet or even soggy, something every farmer is looking for. I guess in another 5 years or so, those little forested acres left will be gone also.

pic17
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That was for the agricultural part of Access for the moment. In the next update we go back to town and see what has changed there and also go to the Sterling County and have a look how the highway team manages to win over the swampy lands up north. We also have some news about some of our story "celebrities". Hope you liked my update again. ;)


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on May 04, 2010, 06:41:30 PM
Totally sweet. ;D :thumbsup:

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on May 04, 2010, 06:45:03 PM
Wow, now that is population exploding like a bomb. tic-tic-tic- 500 bagillion people.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: marsh on May 04, 2010, 10:23:02 PM
Ahhhh. Dont you just love the way big buisness companys mass produce animals in close almost inhospitable quarters suffering, while all remaining uknown to the public?......... &mmm........ (poor animals ()sad())

Great update man!  :thumbsup:

marsh
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on May 04, 2010, 11:57:11 PM
Amidst all the histeria about the army and such, I forgot that the Winding River Region was still growing and now all these farms have developed unnoticed!!!  Very nice farms but it is only a matter of time before they are taken over by the expansion of the cities :-[

-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: cubby420 on May 05, 2010, 05:46:42 PM
The times they are a changing. Cool update.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on May 05, 2010, 10:19:38 PM
Nice update Fred. Though I find it hard to believe Slye is "buying" the lumber from the cleared farms, so much as he would be charging them to clear it. Reasonable rates I'm sure, enough to pay the workers, but where else do you find the equipment to remove stumps so fast? Really interesting to see the development that's taken place too. I knew things were growing, but the scale hadn't sunk in until I saw the two overviews. Nice touch too in showing the buyout of smaller farms opening the door for some larger ranches. Good hints at the progress to come.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on May 06, 2010, 06:01:32 AM
Access has turned into quite the center for agriculture, which Im sure will only increase the economy and population growth of the city :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on May 06, 2010, 02:13:18 PM
Great update! I love the major development.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on May 06, 2010, 02:57:16 PM
That is some rapid expansion on those farms. Poor Gregory Badger should hurry up and expand his land before everything around him is taken, too.

Looking good :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 08, 2010, 11:15:43 PM
Here is a teaser of what the town of Access Center looks like today, June 1965. Many changes in the center of the town. Enjoy this picture until I find the time to bring you all the details of it. It shouldn't be long, maybe on sunday. Some surprizes.

Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg59.imageshack.us%2Fimg59%2F2387%2Flakesteadcountytownview.jpg&hash=d5883f71e76e05d1d4d9f61c867ec4b9aead4cc9)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on May 09, 2010, 05:45:02 AM
This looks awesome Fred!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 09, 2010, 07:18:41 PM
Update 52   june 1965

The town of Access Center welcomes you, it says on signs of all directions when you enter the municipality. Some money was lately invested to beautify and make the town somewhat interesting for tourism. The budget is tight, but the population increases rapidly in the region, now at almost 45,000. The times that Access was a small town are of the past now. It is a fast growing town that creates a lot of stirring in the Center of Simland. The Winding River region is not just a place anymore, but it has become the talks of the future and it has become a destination .
Mayor Bartlett is proud to present you : The Winding River Project.
On June 12th, 1965, the council and the mayor have officially decided to make Access the Capitol of the Winding River Region. Many projects and many ideas of making this region a wonderful place for our Sims have been carefully planned and a summary report was officially presented. Some 4.5 Million § will be invested in the town's budget in the next two years, plus another 1.2 Million § are added by the federal Government per year to  create an excellent baseblock for the region to develop.

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The Winding River Region today has officially four municipalities and 16 counties. Approximately 75 % of the region is yet to be surveyed and mapped. Most of it is total wilderness and accessable only by hydroplanes or on foot. The biggest town and from now on also the Regional Capitol, is Access Center, then comes Grasslake, West River and Phlox, which is still very new.
Today and for the next three updates, we will concentrate on Access, the town and it's people who made it a town.
Founded by the first Mayor, still alive, Paul Hubert in 1956, the town grew to 40,000 strong in just 9 years. Here is a little nostalgia with a 1956 picture of the center of the town, remember? Some of today's "landmarks" have been indicated in blue to get a better picture of what this place used to look like in its beginnings. Never would anyone have thought of it becoming the town of today at that time.

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Now let's get right into the town and have a closer look of what happened in the last 8 to 10 months. Close to the Shopping mall some new smaller shops and restaurants have surfaced, mostly on what used to be Highway 15 lots. The old Motel is still going, since it is the only one in Access. You can still encounter some spiders and mice in your sleep. No room to expand, the owner is thinking to find a bigger lot for a new one and sell this lot to the highest Bidder, the ways terrains are being sold in Access's downtown today. The Northroad leads right through the town where once the Highway layed.

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It took the town quite awhile to build the promissed new soccer installations, but finally the 1965 summergames will be played on topsoil. The new soccer field moved to the south of the town, where it was planned to go on municipal grounds. Financed by the town of Access, Mr John Gabber and with federal funds, the field now has a Player's building, larger parking, nightlights and more than 2000 seats. The day after it was finished, our Access Loggerteam was already doing a practice game. Go Loggers, Go!

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Only a few blocks to the north and where once a field of bushes stood, today is overbuilt by federal offices. Now Access' population can renew their driving licence, oppose to the income tax, get to know the federal laws, get their social insurance card and much more what concerns officail papers and permits right here in town without making a 80 kilometer trip to Sandom. These offices are about right in front of the firestation on the northroad. Very modern looking, the citizens are very happy.
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We all remember the Olsen Pub, one of the first restaurants in Access. A couple of months ago it was sold to a buissness from Frampton and torn down to make an office building which was more than needed. Here we have lawyer's offices, financial institutions, notaries and many other buissness offices from the town. These two towers couln't be more centered since this and Barby's Biergarten is really THE Center of town.

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It was finally finished last weekend, the Townhall is ready to receive the council and mayor. Mayor Bartlett and the town's counselors couldn't be happier to move in and receive the citizens in their monthly meetings, now with much more room. The building is almost built with the financial help of 40% of the town's richer Sims. It was well planned and looks "sharp" as the mayor indicated at his opening speech. Right in front of Barby's Biergarten, it is also in the real center of town. A parking will be build in the near future on the Gabber Park's land, now that the soccerfield has moved to the southend of town.

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Everybody knew andd hoped that one day a McDonald's would arrive in town, so it happened last month. The restaurant was built on a former residential lot, that was sold for a high prize, something that happens all the time now in the center of town, looking for costly commercial space. The residential lots nearby already have received similar offers from buissnesses that would like to own a place in downtown, but some Sims want to wait to get even better offers before they give in and sell. For example: the house just in the backyard of McDonald's was offered some 10,000§ for it's lot and building, which is actually 3.5 times the municipal tax's value and that is a lot!
The Resto was really appreciated by the younger generation of the town, but also by the folks that think to gain more time in a fast food place like this. " The best thing that could happen" some Sims said on an official survey of the restaurants of town.

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Here is an overview picture of downtown with some of the most important "landmarks". It will help us to locate the new and older structures. On the bottom right you can see the where the the older industries used to be and now giving place to residentials.
William Jacobs' home which is about on the right of the Gabber Park is btw the home of the richest man in Access at this moment. He is the owner of most appartment buildings in the west of town.

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Not everything that is good has changed in Access, but also the drugdealing has become more intensified in the lesser "shiny" parts of the town. One man taking a lot of profit lately is  our Johnny B. Badd. He has been making himself a name in the darker corners of town and also making some big amounts of §. So far, he is not suspected by the police, although the former Police chief is more than certain that he is the main man of the region. Johnny did something like this before, where he came from, but somehow it became too "hot" for him and moving here to Access, gives him more liberty and more space to expand his buissness of illegal drugs.
This is Mainstreet of the west of town and some demonstrators have been announcing themselves lately to get better services for the less fortunate Sims of Access, which seem to have been neglected by the administrtaion of the town.

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The small lot that Harry Wormwood bought about 4 months ago has become alive. Harry moved to Access with his wife and his new son and finally opened his car dealership of used cars. He has big plans and his wish is to become as big a cardealer than his former boss in Sandom. We will have a closer look on him in the future.

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Here it is, the new acquisition of Mr Nethaniel Wellington. The first foodstore outlet in the region. Bake n' Sale has doubled in size, now offering a fresh food store chain. The superstore opened last week and made an excellent impression on the citizens. Of course, being the first store of this sort it is massively appreciated by the population and therefore to become the most important foodstore in Access is almost assured. Mr Wellington is more than happy to have found out within a week of its existance that Sims are litterally invading his new foodstore.

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And here is one last picture of the whole area we talked about today.

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I will be back later this week with some info of our known folks of Access and the other parts of the town. Have a nice week.

Fred

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on May 10, 2010, 03:54:50 AM
Very good job! I can't wait for the character's info. ;D

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on May 10, 2010, 04:21:31 AM
...and the airstrip is still just as small. That seems like it would be a problem, to me at least.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cidwm on May 10, 2010, 01:47:27 PM
I like this MD. great job on building up your region. :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on May 10, 2010, 05:05:43 PM
Very nice Fred! All these things are finally getting done, and more stuff is happening ;D

                          -Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on May 14, 2010, 02:27:12 AM
I heard Johnny B. Badd is turning himself quite a profit these days - I wonder when he will buy himself an upgrade in terms of living conditions :)

Another fantastic update - I love getting to know Access, and the tour around town was very entertaining.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on May 14, 2010, 07:55:12 AM
Access is rapidly turning into a sprawling metropolis.

The military is going to start having problems keeping a lid on whatever's happening at their base with all these people running around. There's a reason top secret projects usually end up in the desert far from civilization.

I especially like the sports stadium.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 14, 2010, 06:28:58 PM
KoV Liberty , coming up in the next update, maybe this weekend, Alex is still somewhat slightly disturbed from that adventure in West River, but he just finished both bridges in Phlox.

[quote author=Cyclone1001 link=topic=7189.msg324651#msg324651 date=1273490491]
...and the airstrip is still just as small. That seems like it would be a problem, to me at least.
[/quote]
Not only to you, but to me and the mayor, the strip is way too short. That too is coming up in the next update.

Cidwm , Thanks and welcome to the WRP (Winding River Project).


canyonjumper , more stuff is happeneing...hey, wait 'till you see what's up in the 4th next upcoming update.....panic in the region!  :shocked2:

nedalezz,...I think Johnny B.Bad is planning something more serious, now he's got some §§'s.

frostwolf, if you like to have the soccerfield, tell me so, I'll upload it somewhere with a link right here. ;)

I hope that I will have the time to bring the next update this weekend (probably do). As I said before, the next three updates we will talk about our heroes and then it's a mess in the region, some heavy duty events make difficult decisions and hard changes.

Fred


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on May 14, 2010, 10:35:00 PM
Nice work Fred!!  Do you plan on integrating the new Tuleps and NWM into your Access?


-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 15, 2010, 12:21:36 AM
Quote from: MattyFo on May 14, 2010, 10:35:00 PM
Nice work Fred!!  Do you plan on integrating the new Tuleps and NWM into your Access?


-Matt

lol....Maybe, if I knew what *Tuleps* means, please explain.....
I downloaded the new NAM, the new Real Highway Mod and the NWM though this week, but haven't yet figured out how to use them....lol ;).

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on May 15, 2010, 07:01:40 AM
nice job on the update!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cidwm on May 15, 2010, 09:18:34 AM
New modular Turning Lanes = TuLEPs adds turning lanes.

Still figuring out the new NAM my self so i'm not the best source for information. :P
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on May 15, 2010, 09:30:48 AM
The soccerfield is very shiny, but at the moment, my old eMac is starting to give up the ghost. I can't play Simcity on it very well, so I shouldn't download anything new for the game until I get a new computer.

And if I was to want anything, it would by that shiny lumber mill. ;)

-FW
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 20, 2010, 06:28:30 AM
Update 53       June 29th, 1965

This is part 1 of 3, where we concentrate ourselves on our Winding River's characters.

It is early Summer now in the Winding River Region and all Sims are enjoying the wonderful months coming up. First time wearing only a T-Shirt this year, John Gabber walked into Barby's Biergarten, greeting the boss herself and asking how her Lakehotel construction was doing. Then he sat beside the pilot, Steve Gibson, and looked at all the people present greeting them all. Mike of course was there, along with John's father Henry Gabber and Slye.
««"Where the heck is Alex, he's usually the first one here with his friday afternoon beer?" he asked looking at everyone.
"Alex ain't coming today, he's having a slight burn out he says, working too hard to get the bridges done in Sterling/Stoke. He's taking the weekend off and visit his parents. He says his plans don't really work overthere in Stoke and it's giving him headaches." Slye said, confirming that he saw and talked to Alex late last night at the Phlox's gazstation on his way home.
"I was in Stoke on Monday and saw what Alex means," Henry dropped into the conversation, "and to tell you the truth, I'm freaking glad not to have his job myself."
What do you mean Pa," John asked.
" It's the unstable sandy terrain and the swampy grounds that keep on putting an X on his plans. If I were him, which gladly I'm not, I'd go see my boss and throw my plans at him." and he looked directly at his son John, who is Alex's boss.
"C'mon Dad, what is it now again?" John asked looking discouraging at his father.
"Well, if you weren't so darn money grabby, then you would have let him work around those swamps for a few miles, which doesn't look that difficult. You probably would have saved a lot of money anyways, because now it'll cost you an arm to tear those sunken pillars down and start all over."
"That bad?" John said ,now really looking seriously discouraged. "I better have a look at this myself on Monday"......and after a few sips of his beer he continued, looking at Gibson this time with a big smile..."So, did you get over the West River story yet?"
Steve answered, "No, not yet...." but continued quickly, " Of course I did. By the way, I met this soldier the other day when I stopped on the side of the road near Slye's mill to buy some fresh veggies he sells and we talked a lot about all kind of things for quite awhile, when I asked him if he had access to the base and knew what's going on there and if the rumours of that poisonous gaz is that real....ha...you wouldn't believe what he said," and Steve stopped right there in the middle of his phrase as if he was waiting for an answer from anyone.
" What?.....Go on" Henry tried to push him.
"Well, he said that he wasn't allowed to say anything, something to do with him being a soldier or what, but he mentioned that there's no gaz there at all and scientists are putting Darwin's theory under question."
"Darwin's.... theory.... what?" Slye looked totally lost. "What do you mean by putting it under question?...What theory?"
Henry opened his eyes and couldn't wait for the answer.
"I don't know myself, Terry," Gibson said with holding back his shoulders, "That is all that the soldier said about it, ask him for yourself , you can find him every afternoon at his small kiosk in Phlox where he sells small fruits and veggies, his name is Badger, sorry forgot his first name."
Now, what's Darwin got to do with the West River? Ridiculous!!." said Slye without wanting to know more.»»»

So went by this friday afternoon meeting and they left each on their turn.
True, in Sterling/ Stoke it is difficult to get around these swampy terrains without draining the whole are, which is not allowed by the federal government. Alex says that a bridge, no matter how hard he tries, will not last more than 15 to 20 years on these grounds. The best idea was to buy the land necessary, or rent it for 50 years or so, and build on Sterling's land. (shown in 2 blue lines on pic1) But it seemed to be too expensive for Gabber and which he totally refused, I heard.

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The town of Phlox on both citytiles, have grown to more than 200 citizens in the last year. Here the Minister of Civil Expansion (MCE) has decided to build a full sized town which should have reached a 25,000 population within the next 5 years. This project is financially supported by the federal Government to encourage new simfamilies to settle down in the valley.
The project started in 1960, was carefully thought over and finally has reached the point where they have asked a professional to present his plan or plans. It was Riichirou Takahaschi, who was recommended by John Gabber's brother, Gary Gabber, who has close contacts within the Simland Governments.
Mr Takahaschi, who was about to leave the country to find himself a job, was very happy to get this job of planning the future town of Phlox. He was not only hired for the plans but also to supervise the whole project during its construction, meaning for the next five years.
Now that the Government has his plans, it will decide in the next months. Several other engineers were asked to supply their plans also.

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On the eastern part of Phlox the town already grows from one week to another, now that the bridge will soon be publically opened and T.S. Slye has built his first train station of the region, the only place where a train will stop in the valley at this moment. This will of course be excellent for this municipality. Already some farmers have approached  Slye to consider a co-operation with the station and allow them to build grainsilos so that they will be able to ship grains and other agricultural products through his station. And this also will create more jobs, which bring in more Sims as settlers.

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Mr Alex Puto finally made it with this big project of the two bridges over the mighty Winding River and he finished it with only 3 months of delay. Now Alex will be able to fully work on the problems in Sterling lake. The bridges are already fully functional, but the second smaller bridge will only be officially opened next month to give time to the highway workers to attach their asphalt.
Here we can also see that harbour lot on Phlox Island (renamed from Sterling Island) that was sold to a certain Miss Panskyy.

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It is already partially functional since almost a month, the new and first trainstation in the valley. T.S. Slye opened its doors and started shipping his goods 3 weeks ago. Although its capacity is not fully reached yet, finished lumber is leaving these docks twice a week, which doubles the shipping of the mill already. Another 50 fulltime jobs were created by Slye, who slowly is becoming famous as one of the main supplier of steady jobs in the region. Terry, only in his mid twenties, is thinking big again and already managing himself to find another project very soon. He is about to make some add-ons for his station, something to satisfy the agricultural needs....and this is getting very big, because farms have been increasing lately in the region.
Slye even has his own mill office staff now, a Manager, directors, salesmen, secretaries, log buyers and several foremen.
He is now taking more time for his favourite sports that he has abandonned in the last five years. Golf in Frampton, tennis in Grasslake with John Gabber and Mike Allheimer, biking near the Fingerlake in Access and surfing in Bluebay. Of course he goes golfing with Steve Gibson, the pilot who now has become a good friend of his. Both dislike the idea of not having a golfcourse in the Winding River region, although there is more land than needed available, some with very scenic terrains.

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A lot of changes can be seen here in the eastern part of Phlox, namely that Gregory Badger's home is gone. The rails needed the location to connect to the main rails. The land was purchased from Badger, but Greg kept his kiosk, where he sells his vegetables and small fruits.
Welder's lodge used to be in the middle of a dense forest, today it is surrounded by construction and will never be the same. The town of Phlox is getting closer too.

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After the "expulsion" from his land near the sawmill, Gregory Badger needed land to continue his gardens and he found this little home with a barn and some acres of land on Phlox island for rent. He couldn't buy much with what he received from Slye for his little home, but renting was a good option that he seriously considered with an opportunity to buy it one day. So Greg sat on his tractor and plowed everything that was plowable on that small farm and planted whatever he was able to, hoping that it wasn't too late in the season to be able to harvest a good crop this fall.

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Another one who had the idea to rent a farm or home was the Writer from Bergen Island in Bluebay, Charles M. Johnson. He had to get closer to Access, since he works now almost fulltime for Joe Bean from the Access Tribune. Charles now writes the weekly reports of the highway construction and daily lifes of Access' citizens, which of course he finds very boring, but the pay is good and living out here on Lake Valmore gives him the privacy and silence to maybe start a good novel that he is thinking about since a few months.

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Now back to Access Center where Racsan is building his private raceway. This is costing Guy Racsan a little fortune and we all hope for him that it will be worth it. Some rumours say that he is going into automobile productions, maybe producing his own cars one day and that this will be the testing ring. Sofar we know that most of the adhering land was bought by Racsan in the last months and that it will be used for his jetengin manufacturing and also for a new building, of which we have no idea yet.

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A newcomer to Access is the fastfood restaurant chain from Frampton, Mr Burger, founded and owned by Michael Truex, who has promissed to deliver the best burgers on the market. He already signed several contracts already with local beef farmers, vegetable growers such as Gregory Badger and bakeries. Truex, only 30 years old, is originally from Tuscon, Arizona in the US. He moved to Frampton awhile ago to work for several fastfood restaurants before he started his own buissness there. Mr Hamburger is his Company called, that only has four other subsidaries in Frampton sofar, but Truex is far from the ordinary buissnessman and he promissed to settle into the Region and become the Nr 1 Fastfood King one day, being very competitional.

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At 1:00 Pm precisely (13:00 hrs) a siren could be heard in Access Center from far away. The hydrodam area was closed to the public.
Although the rainy season is usually in late fall and we are only in June, rains up in the mountains have been receiving record levels this spring, never seen and measured before. All creeks and brooks running into the Fingerlake are overfilled with water, some of them with brownish colours indicating that erosion is busy somewhere ont he way up. Filling the lake since a few weeks it has now become a small danger of being too stressful for the dam.
The water is at the same height as the streetlevel and that is what decided to shut off the access. No one is allowed near or on the dam itself, all lower building were evacuated and are closed until further notice. Also all the overflow valves were opened to the maximum to release the pressure on the dam itself. Since the river below dam does not go through any habited areas, no danger of a major damaging flood downstream is awaited.
A lot of citizens didn't even know that the Access hydrodam had a siren and some folks even panicked and thought the war has started again. The Police Chief Kyle Roberts had to calm down the population and block off several roads leading to the dam from to those curious Sims that wanted to see the danger themselves.
If the dam breaks it will be fatal to the lower forests and possibly also to some weekend homes on the Valmore lake that will considerably raise its level. Even the Army was alarmed, since the discharge of the Valmore lake is the West River which goes right through the federal reserved area.

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It was also yesterday when the first official monthly council meeting was held in the new Townhall. Mr Slye and Mr Gibson, the pilot, were present this time, mentioning to make it possible to free some land for a golfcourse, which is badly wanted by many citizens of Access and that it could only have a positive effect to the town. Mayor Bartlett answered by saying that it will be seriously considered by the council this week. Of course having an important regional employer and the only bushpilot of the region filing in that public demand makes all the difference.
Other subjects talked about in this historical first new townhall meeting were the fact that the town now urgently needs a better used water treatment plant, bigger and more efficient, also a library would help the education of the citizens, the rebuilding of Gabberpark, the construction on the airport and the creating of a small historical museum for the town. Many other subjects were approached, more or less important, which kept the council busy for the rest of the day.

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At the airport work has started on the extension of the landing strip in the west. A lot of digging into the hill was needed to bring the ground to a level point. A small farm now sits on top of a hill, where it used to be almost on level grounds before. This part of the landing strip should be finished by fall, they say, but the eastern part planned will only start next year.
pic16
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The land needed has already been bought out by the town and the plans are also finished for the eastern extension of the airport. The project will be costly, therefore only started next year or even the year after, they say. There will be two tunnels under the landingstrip, one for the road and one for the rails. It was the only way to plan their new directions without making miles of detouring. We can see the tunnels in white lines while the blue indicates the future road. Inside the yellow lines the landing strip will be lenghtened to offer better and safer landings to all kinds of aircrafts.This multi-million §§ project should be finished within 3 years.

pic17
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If you were outside on last sunday morning anywhere in the Access town area, you probably would have seen a black smoke column in the western part of town raising to the skies. A smaller habitation caught on fire. Someone doing some home welding in his small garage attached to the house wasn't too careful with his sprakles and soon the tires in his garage caught on fire, making a lot of smoke and fire. Some chemical products inside the garage exploded also and fire was thrown to the neighbor's lawn....and within only a few minute fire was all over the place it seemed. Luckily for Access' new firehouse and firefighter team, it took them less than 10 minutes to get there and control the fires. The garage and house were only heavily smoked out and with some minor repair and cleaning it could be rehabited in a week or so. For the neighbor's lawn, the fire was deadly though, causing a certain death to the grass. Mayor Bartlett himself went to thank the firefighters who did an excellent job. Citizens of Access Center are impressed by the new fireprotection services.

pic18
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pic19
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pic20
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And finally some news about the bad luck that Welligton had last week. Less than a week after his official openeing the ceiling of the building came raining down. Light paperfoam ceilingtiles that probably weren't attached properly fell on top of the customers creating more fear and fright than harm. No one was hurt, except for the pride of Nethaniel Wellington who was about to explode in his own way. Neverless, the store was closed for renovations, it said on the windows outside and Wellington will indeed bring this to court and ask for reimbursement of his losses.

pic21
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Well, that was it again, quite an update, a lot of work in that one, finding the right lots and Bats and make the right pictures. Hope you liked it again. The next time we will hear about another group of our characters, some changes and also some new lots. It will be Part 2 of 3.
I will be gone for the weekend, gone fishing. Have a nice weekend ya all also. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on May 20, 2010, 07:17:25 AM
Looks like Sgt. Badger is getting tired of keeping his mouth shut. I do hope he's careful; an honorable discharge is much better than a couple of years in the brig for revealing state secrets. ;)

Too bad about that little farm of his. That was a nice little piece of property.I'm sure his next place that he owns will be nice too.

And what does "putting Darwin to the test" mean? As a guy who likes Dean Koontz, that sounds pretty ominous.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Shadow Assassin on May 20, 2010, 07:46:53 AM
QuoteFirst time wearing only a T-Shirt this year, John Gabber walked into Barby's Biergarten

I hope he was actually wearing pants too  :P

In any case it's nice to see the Winding River repmgion growing quite quickly... hopefully it all goes well. Also, hopefully this doesn't go the same way Nexis of Genesis did... you've got the story growing nicely. As for the inhabitants themselves... any surprises at all coming up for them?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 20, 2010, 12:39:24 PM
Quote from: frostwolf on May 20, 2010, 07:17:25 AM

And what does "putting Darwin to the test" mean? As a guy who likes Dean Koontz, that sounds pretty ominous.

Putting Darwin's theory to the test.......Hmmm.....that is what all the others asking themselves too.

Quote from: Shadow Assassin on May 20, 2010, 07:46:53 AM
I hope he was actually wearing pants too  :P


lol.........I hope so too.......lol. I should have mentioned it in another way, maybe leaving the *only* away?....lol

Quote from: Shadow Assassin on May 20, 2010, 07:46:53 AM
... any surprises at all coming up for them?

Well as a matter of fact, there is something strange, maybe even fearful coming up for them after I'm finished talking about all those characters of this story.
;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on May 20, 2010, 01:26:29 PM
Very very nice! I loved the update. ;) Glad no one was hurt in the ceiling fiasco. Cannot wait to see what goes on next...

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on May 20, 2010, 02:16:03 PM
First a golf course, then a longer runway, Gibson's life is getting better!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on May 22, 2010, 06:40:12 PM
It was nice catching up with the characters and their going ons...cant wait for the next couple of updates.

Access continues to grow at a rapid pace. The airport expansion also looks good :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on May 22, 2010, 08:46:17 PM
Great update Fred! Took me awhile to read it through, but it was totally worth it! You are a master of stories, and you pick the right BAT for any moment! Too bad about the fire and the ceiling. At least no one was hurt.

                         Your friend,
                                        Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on May 30, 2010, 08:19:51 AM
Nice town hall.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 05, 2010, 12:28:45 PM
I have been off for the last two weeks and it wiill be another week before we get another update, sorry for this, but I'm busy like a bee at this moment. Thanks for staying put.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on June 11, 2010, 09:38:20 PM
I thought some ninja's kidnapped you Fred. $%#Ninj2 :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on June 12, 2010, 02:04:26 PM
Hehe. Me too. Btw, I will be gone from the 16th-25th this month. ;)

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 12, 2010, 08:16:37 PM
Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on June 11, 2010, 09:38:20 PM
I thought some ninja's kidnapped you Fred. $%#Ninj2 :D

lol....not yet, I'm still running around in circles. I am pretty busy right now, I will be back with a short update within a few days though. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on June 16, 2010, 04:05:30 PM
ooo I like my new store! Although I don't like the construction.  %wrd
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 22, 2010, 05:09:12 AM
Since I have some difficulties with two of my construction sites irl, I have been away from SC since almost two weeks. The problems should be cleared before the next weekend, when I will be back with the judgements, the pointage sheet of the GRV II Thread and only after, I will then also continue the Story of *The Winding River Project* (WRP)
Sorry for being late again, but sooo many things happen at the same time which I cannot control and since simcity is of the last priority, it has been put aside. I am really sorry and hope I can make it up someday with a great story of all our "heroes".
See you the week after the next weekend and thanks for being patient.

Fred ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Sven800 on July 08, 2010, 09:08:58 PM
Wow. I remember NoG and this is starting to look just as good. Just finished reading the first 50 pages - Great story, just as last time.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 14, 2010, 08:07:41 AM
Quote from: Sven800 on July 08, 2010, 09:08:58 PM
Wow. I remember NoG and this is starting to look just as good. Just finished reading the first 50 pages - Great story, just as last time.

....and I remember you having a character in NoG......If I remember right, the character was in real estate...... ;)


Ok Folks, I have no other choice than to put this MD on *Hold* for two to four more weeks.(approx. a month)  I have barely time to go on Internet these days and I want to finish my GRV II Challenge first (kinda more important, people have been waiting for way too long for this.)

I will make it up to you though.....with great stories and new Nexis BATs, once I'm back.

Thanks
Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 14, 2010, 08:13:27 AM
Thats quite alright Fred. ;)

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on July 30, 2010, 04:59:47 PM
Take as long as you need, Fred; we'll still be here when you get back. ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Sven800 on August 14, 2010, 11:18:02 PM
well, if you have space for more characters... ;-)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on September 09, 2010, 01:48:29 PM
OK, I'm back.
Lynn (my wife *lynncanox*) was to leave a message in August where I was gone, but she totally forgot about it. So, please forgive her.

We were in NZ for a week's vacation in late July and on the way back (before the earthquake) we got our baggage stolen on the last day in the hotel. So....lol....that wasn't funny at all, because passports and all our tickets, papers were in the luggage. Ha, I also now know that NZ isn't better for criminality than any other modern Nation. lol...
So, I also found out that the Canadian Embassy there isn't worth a penny, and forget the canadian Government when it comes to helping its citizens out of their country. Oh my, that was frustating and long to clear. Another week in NZ with no clothes, no money, no credit dard and no papers....lol. I hope that I never experience that again. Thanks for international banktransfers that can handle a case like this within hours and thanks for the Wellington Police that helped us so much, unfortunetly without success.
Anyways, I hope that they didn't suffer much with the earthquake they had last week.

Once back in Canada, after only a few days, I was admitted to the hospital.....so,I guess you know now why I havn't been around for so long. I just got out on last Friday, not feeling so well yet and that is why I only post today, where health seems to go up. Heart surgery (3 by-passes) isn't that easy at all and that worried Lynn a lot also and probably that is the reason why she didn't leave a message, even when I asked in august.
I missed you guys a lot, and now I will have all the time to catch up on anything. I was told to do nothing for a couple of months at least. Woohoo, some long vacation....lol. The moral is perfect, the body ...well, so n' so and the rest is going uphill. I even received my passport (brand new one) yesterday....lol. I hate Governments. ;)

So, now that I am back, I will try to catch up on my things slowly. I will continue my MD, continue to post the challenges in my GRVII and maybe even start BATting again. I only hope that I didn't loose to many folks.

Glad to be back. Yesss Sir. ;)

I will have a small update in a few days.

Fred

Quote from: Sven800 on August 14, 2010, 11:18:02 PM
well, if you have space for more characters... ;-)

No problem, I will PM you later this week with the info needed. Great to have you back in my new MD.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on September 09, 2010, 02:35:42 PM
Glad to see you are doing okay Fred. I hope your health does very well!

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TiFlo on September 09, 2010, 03:21:40 PM
Hence the reason why there is no way I give up my French citizenship (and the passport that goes with it). Luckily, we're allowed to keep both. I just don't want to be left to fend for myself if anything happens to me while abroad.

Anyway, stolen luggages don't seem too bad seeing what you had to go through since your return. Glad to see you're in great spirit though. And it won't hurt any more doing nothing for some time!  ;D

Take it easy!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on September 09, 2010, 05:17:55 PM
Welcome back Fred! Sorry to hear about your health and your luggage, I hope you get all that settled. Glad to hear there's a few updates coming up ;D

               Your friend,
                              Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on September 09, 2010, 05:53:08 PM
nice to see things moving along.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on September 10, 2010, 05:20:35 PM
glad to have you back Fred!  Glad to here that things are going uphill!

- Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on September 11, 2010, 10:47:20 AM
Thanks guys.

I will post an update on late sunday night, something to refreshen your memories and get back into the story of the Winding River Project (WRP). I started last night to write a summary of what happened in the last few years of the Valley's existance eversince the story started in 1955, when young Billy was only 7 years old. Today we are in the late sixties already and the the Winding River Valley is under full invasion of civilization with more than 50 Sms we have gotten to know during this period and probably more to come.

I have some interesting stories and surprizes in store for you to enjoy. The region is about to become the center of interest in this Simnation.

See you in a couple of days, (and hey, thanks for having had the patience to stick around.) ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on September 13, 2010, 06:58:49 PM
SUMMARY

Update 54 - July 1st, 1965


Let's have something like a "flashback" first before we continue the story. I think it will help us all (including me) to get back into the story and the characters, maybe even interest some newcomers to this journal to stay.

We all know that the story started in the year 1955, when John Gabber and his son Billy (william) went fishing north of the Winding River Region. John has received a demand for submission to build a highway through the Winding River valley to connect the everfast growing city of Bluebay in the south with even bigger both Frampton and Beecherfalls up north. Little Billy liked the area so much because of plentyful forests, rivers and lakes and the untouched wilderness. This was the first contact with the region.
Later the construction of the highway started in Bluebay and got to Sandom (a smaller town north) within a year and this is where we entered the Winding River region. In the beginning only an access road to the highway's location was build, leading through the Grasslake area. The Gabber's liked the area so much that they almost bought half of the lake and the surroundings. Also the right hand of John Gabber, Mike Allheimer spoiled himself with buying some land off Gabber on the lake, where Gabber started building his first cottage. Later many others from all over the place came and bought land from Gabber and built their weekend homes also. Grasslake became the first independant county in the Winding River Region.

A year later only and the access Road joined with the highway. From here on the access road never left the sides of Highway 15 and continues probably until it hits Frampton. The place where Highway and the road met was called "Access Junction" by the loggers and Highway workers. The name stayed and after a few Cantines and Restaurants, it became official. The area became the municipality of Access Junction. I think it was in 1963 that it was renamed "Access Center" by the new Mayor Steven Bartlett, the follower of the first Mayor Paul Hubert, now the owner of a small trucking buissness in town.

The very first arrivals were loggers and highway workers in the Access area. Then came folks like Andy Dubold, who was the foreman of the loggers and who died in 1964, Ray Olsen who built the old Olsen Pub, which is now erased and has become the loaction of the secondt several story office building in Access. Olsen was also implicated in the Lucy's murder case, having ordered the murderer Gerry Mason to get rid of her because Olsen wanted her excellently running restaurant. Mason was executed in 1961 and Olsen got 25 years of prison in Lakestead, the Capitol of Simland. His daughter Judy Olsen continued the Pub for several years until an offer that could not be refused arrived last year, 1964. It was sold and leveled. The terrain was built on with an office bldg, owned by the famous and the richest man in Simland, Mr Rundi Sterling, an aborigin of the area. Mr Sterling is into almost everything, owning several banks and financial institutions, construction Companies and several dozens of the biggest Office Buildings in downtown Capitol City, Lakestead.

In the late fifties, Gabber and Allheimer discovered some weird and strange rockstructures which little Billy was the the first to find. In a form of humanoid skulls these were little homes where the skullpeople were supposed to live almost 4000 years ago, well that is what the country's history says in the legend department of Simland's history. Strange enough, it somehow became reality all of sudden. The find was kept secret and even today they haven't yet talked about. The whole area was immediatly bought by the Gabber family. Father Henry Gabber spent hundreds of thousands of Simoleons to buy as much land as possible surrounding these skull huts as they called them.

The highway continued into the region, slowly invading the whole area. Three years ago it was ordered to built a junction in the Phlox County area and another Company from Lakestead took over for this part and make sure to connect highway 15 with Highway 35 that leads directly through the mountains to the Capitol City of Lakestead. In the same area, highway 15 met its first big obstacle, a bridge over the mighty river. It took almost three years to build it.

Here a new village popped up, it is called Phlox. After Valmore joined Access Center last year, Phlox also is thinking about joining the 11,000 population town of Access now, nothing yet decided, but......hm, who knows.
Today highway 15 reached the second obstacle, the soft grounds of the Wllow lake area. The resposable of the highway bridges is Mr Alex Puto, the chief Engineer of Gabber Ltd. Alex is now confronted with one of his worst nightmares, to build the highway over these swamps which are impossible to drain because of the same waterlevel as the river itself. This is where today, in 1965, the highway construction has stopped. Although the logging and bullzing and freeing the land for the continued highway hasn't stopped on the other side of the swamps, the construction itself came to a halt right here.

Cutting through the dense forest of the Valmore County one day, the loggers made the acquaintance of Robert Sweathers, a second world war fighter pilot who crashed in the area in 1945 and who was reported missing ever since. Sweathers survived on his own having built a blockhome nearby the West River and feeding himself of the land eversince. He was given many acres of land there now and he continues to grow veggies that he sells on the roadside. He is now 61 years old and in topshape.
Meanwhile Access continued to grow fast. Soon, there were several houses and smaller buisnesses and even a market, the Access Tribune (newspaper), a church, gazstation etc arrived. Within a few years after its founding a official municipality was formed which included a Mayor, a council, police, firestation, small school etc. Soon more electricity became a necessity and hydro dam was erected nearby on the Fingerlake, where also new waterpumps were built. Now the town had sufficient power and water. That is where the furious immigration started, almost an invasion. People arrived by the hundreds every month, having heart of the beauty of the area and the work available. Places like the airplane engin industries of Guy Racsan, the food stores of Nethaniel Welligton, Terry Slye's sawmill, the highway construction company and many others, were steadlity looking for hired hands. With this invasion came the town's evolution, church was built, industries arrived, a museum, hotels, restaurants, motels, stores that supplied almost everything, Bussing and taxis of Tom Kohler's transportation Company and so on,  making the town now more independant from bigger cities than ever.
Below is a complete map of the region with some details. The map was made today July 1st, 1965. So it is up to date. This will give you a good idea where we are right now with the civilization of the Winding River Region.

Then in 1964 things started to heat up and scare a lot of people in the area, the army took over half of the West River county and the northern part of Phlox, they started construction buildings and all kinds of stuff in a hidden and heavily surveyed area saying that some groundgas leaks, not dangerous to anyone in these small quantities were discovered and taken car of.....hm, this started a lot of rumours and piled questions of all kind of topics.
A small goup of people formed itself one day, wanting to know the bottom of all this and they illegally penetrated into these army grounds without getting caught. No gasleaks were found, only some towers and a lot of underground diggings. The group members are John Gabber, Alex Puto, Terry Slye, Mike Allheimer and  young Steve Gibson, the bushpilot. Nothing has really been solved, but they had no choice to keep quiet for awhile, while the army is highly alarmed of the intrusion without knowing who, how and where it happened.

I can't tell you all of what happened in the last ten years, you will have to go back and read it if you want to know more. I will though talk about of our charcaters a little, the ones that I haven't mentioned yet above. Creators of the characters are at the end of each description. ( )

Gary Gabber, John's brother and official CEO of the Gabber Industries financial department, while John is the head of the construction department. Gary in the office and John out in the terrain. Henry Gabber, their father, is now totally retired.(mrb)
Joe Bean is the owner and Manager of the Access Tribune, Access's only newspaper.(mrb)
Steven Bartlett, the mayor since 1963.(mrb)
Adrian McCoy, a young fellow not yet much known, but is always present in the monthly meetings of the town's council, mostly complaining about the water situation, pollution and garbage disposals. He is just a simple citizen though.(mrb)
Richard Welder, the outfitter in Phlox, just besides Slye's sawmill.(mrb)
Kyle Roberts, the new Police Chief.(mrb)
George Troy, an old colored man who is also the guardian to the Sterling's lands. He also repairs bikes as a hobby and has a small shop in the village of Phlox.(mrb)
Colonel Neil Myers (not related to Jim Meyers) is the army's base in West River head officer.(mrb)
Robert Yome, not yet known much.(mrb)
Tom Kohler who owns the busses and Taxis in Access.(RustyXL)
Johnny B.Badd....well.....someone who seems to be busy with illegal drug dealing or something like it.(nedalezz)
Riichirou Takahaschi, the architect who is about to change Phlox's landscape, hired by Sterling to plan a new small town.(just_a_guy)
Nethaniel Joseph Wellington, owner of food stores. (danielcote)
Terry Slye, owner of the sawmill in Phlox. (threestooges)
Gregory Badger, a member of the army stationed in West River and growing vegetables and fruits on  a small farm on Sterling Island near the bridge that crosses the mighty river.(frostwolf)
Alex Puto, chief Engineer of Gabber Industrustries fort he highway 15 Project.(driftmaster07)
Barby White who owns the Biergarten Restaurant in downtown Access, where all the meetings of some our characters occur and also the owner of the Valmore Hotel, which she only lately finished, on the banks of the great Valmore lake.(BarbyW)
Charles M. Johnson, for now he works as a reporter for the Access Tribune.(emgmod)
Michael Truex, not much known about yet, but working to bring in a fastfood chain. (Nascar_Guy)
Paul Donovan, the famous young Playboy from Beecherfalls and new to Access with one of his building supply stores. (scott1964)
George and Patrick Westwood, the young fellows that work for the church at the moment.(CabraBruitre)
Steve Gibson, known as the bushpilot. (Cyclone1001)
Diarmuid MacGormain, Billy's (youngest son of John Gabber)  best friend and now in College, also a well known soccerplayer of the Access Logger's Team. (TheTeaCat)
Jordan Meaden, a young fellow not much known of yet, wants to be a cartographer.(canyonjumper)
Harry Wormwood, the first car dealer in Access, just got in.(MattyFo)
Guy Racsan, owner the airplane jet engin manufaturer in Access, also building the access raceway and test strip for his newly planned car industry, son of the millionaire Tony Racsan that owns parts of Kent Engineering and half of the grasslake area.(Nascar_Guy)
Michael Arven,who was the one that designed most lakehomes in Grasslake when he was only a kid and is now in College to become an architect.(mightygoose)
....and many others that are from my part.

This is the latest region view of the Winding River Region. (Warning:Big Picture) click on the link below the thumbnail.....

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg299.imageshack.us%2Fimg299%2F1927%2Fwindingrivervalley.th.png&hash=4fa9da0c76919ab1907b9503e9d1695ed9ff7418)
http://img163.imageshack.us/img163/1927/windingrivervalley.png

And this is the map of all the regions, to find yourself around when we talk about other cities that surround the Winding River valley.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg690.imageshack.us%2Fimg690%2F2866%2Fmapganogawrwnewhighway4.png&hash=f824be30eb7792177e6a266c6423b8270e9a8de1)

So, I hope that this got you more or less back into the story, after the summertime off. The next update will be next weekend, we'll have a look at the highway in the swampy area of the Willow Lake and also a good look on the developments in Access Center.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on September 13, 2010, 09:48:02 PM
Nice little recap there Fred. Looking forward to the new developments as you get the time.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on September 13, 2010, 10:03:49 PM
Thanks for the recap! I'm excited to find out what you have in store in the first new update.

- Matt ( I guess there more than one Matt out there :D)

Quote from: threestooges on September 13, 2010, 09:48:02 PM
Nice little recap there Fred. Looking forward to the new developments as you get the time.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on September 14, 2010, 01:48:13 PM
I feel refresed. (hehe) :D Glad to see that familiar red ink (or whatever computers use). You may want to change driftmaster07 to KoV Liberty since I changed my username. ;)

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MandelSoft on September 14, 2010, 02:21:01 PM
Impressive region and Mayor Diary! Not only are you building cities, but you also write down a whole back-story. Wow! Keep up the good work  :thumbsup:

Best,
Maarten
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on September 15, 2010, 03:06:59 PM
Good to see you back, Fred. Sorry to hear about your trials and tribulations, and believe me, speaking as an American, Canada more than makes up for the faults of it's Foreign Service in other areas, which your southern neighbors haven't a clue on.  ;)

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on September 16, 2010, 03:35:00 PM
sounds like the plans are going on track again!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on September 16, 2010, 07:57:49 PM
Thanks for the recap!  My mind was kind of fuzzy with all the details... and now I remember why!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on September 18, 2010, 10:14:20 AM
Its great to see you back and healthy, Fred. Surgery could not have been easy, and the rehab must be tough. I wish you the best, always.

The update was great, it was nice reading up on the recap, refreshing ourselves with your great story :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Livin in Sim on September 19, 2010, 05:09:03 AM
Hello, Fred,

I am sorry about your traveling troubles and your illness/surgery, but glad you are making progress toward recovery.  Since I know you, I have trouble imagining you to not do much for a couple months, so be sure and follow that doctor's order, OK?   ;D  SC4 is a handy hobby to have when getting back to full strength. I look forward to seeing the results, but only if you play in relaxed manner as well.   ;)

That region shot is just gorgeous.  I spent close to half an hour looking over it, and love the names you have chosen for the features of the landscape.  Another stand out is the farmland beginning to spread over the area.  SC4 farmland makes a region, I think, and yours is naturally placed. 

Well, looking out for more news from WRP, and thanks for the update, both of story and life.
--Liv

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on September 19, 2010, 10:47:07 AM
Quote from: KoV Liberty on September 14, 2010, 01:48:13 PMYou may want to change driftmaster07 to KoV Liberty since I changed my username. ;)Alex
Noted and changed on my papers. ;)
Quote from: Livin in Sim on September 19, 2010, 05:09:03 AM
so be sure and follow that doctor's order, OK? 
--Liv
OK!...:)

Thanks everyone.
I won't be able to finish my update before Wednesday or Thursday. Didn't have time this weekend because of all the people that we received and tomorrow will be *Doctorday* for a Follow-up.

Today I only show you my privatemap "up-to-date" (1965 in the story). This is to remind me wherever things are and what they are called (I forget names easily) when I write the story and show pictures. It is about the same as the map in my last update, except with more details and in a clear sateliteview.

A bigger Image of the region can be downloaded from the link below the picture. This is a very detailed, big and clear png picture file of 4.2 Mb.

Have a nice sunday afternoon and beginning of the week.

Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg521.imageshack.us%2Fimg521%2F7900%2Fwindingrivervalleynatur.jpg&hash=ee4510f364dc93686da03640bd5868053d019bfa)

http://www.yourfilelink.com/get.php?fid=574745


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: TiFlo on September 19, 2010, 10:54:17 AM
Impressive map, thanks for sharing!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on September 21, 2010, 09:35:38 AM
good to seem an update.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on September 26, 2010, 09:09:28 AM
UPDATE 55   august 15th, 1965, friday

««" I haven't seen a hot summer like this since 1949," were the first words from Mike Allheimer when he sat down beside John and Alex in his regular chair at Barby's Biergarten on a friday afternoon, "I remember, then it was as humid and tropical like the last few days." He then started to look around and asked, " Where are the others?"
Alex was the one who answered, " They are all busy it seems, TS told me last night that he won't be coming today because of some trouble with his trainstation and I saw the pilot earlier this morning, he also couldn't come, ha, he says he had to go to a theater with a girls or something, and John's father ain't feelin' so good, John just told me."
"Damn," Mike continued, " I wanted to know how it is since our intrusion in West River. Have you guys heard anything about West River, did they ever found out who the intruders were?", and he smiled as he surely knows who they were.
"Nah, and you better just shut up about this, ye hear?" John specified in a solid tone looking around the bar-room suspicously." You know that when they find out that it was us, we all will be in trouble, and big trouble I tell you."
"No problem John, I'll keep it quiet, but the whole story back there is still making me curious and nervous. I don't believe a rubbish what they say. Did you see the dustclouds lately?"»»...and the conversation about the West River Army base kept on for awhile. Then Barby entered the room and all three were surprised to see her here, since ever she finished her hotel on Valmore, her Biergarten is taken care of by her manager and she hardly ever comes here. John and Mike waved her over and invited her for a drink in her own Tavern.

pic.55.1
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The construction of her hotel near the Valmore Lake started a year ago and since early spring it is open for buissness. Doing well as Barby confirmed, it was the best time to build it, and give it time to establish itself and get known before others move in with the same idea. Rumours are that already a building permit was demanded to build a hotel on the east side of the lake, but the problem is that the eastside of the lake needs a federal permission too. Most of the land there still belongs to the federal Government and only a few small cottages were allowed to build there since a couple of years.
Barby's Hotel is doing well though, open only for 3 months and already most of the rooms are reserved for the rest of the summer. Valmore lake is becoming a fairly nice tourist attraction, something Mayor Bartlett surely knew when he asked the former municipality of Valmore to join Access Center's administration and jurisdiction.
The hotel has in all 60 rooms, a swimmingpool and access to its own beach with sailinboat rental.

pic.55.2
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pic.55.3
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The bridges over the marshlands in the Stoke County are about to be finalized and traffic will soon be able to use them. This was quite a challenge for the chief engineer Alex Puto, who had lots and lots of problems with the unstable soil of the region. It took him and his 450 workers almost 14 months to build it and that is without the logging and the clearing. John Gabber went to inspect Puto's works last week and now fully understands why it took so long, but he never confirmed it to Alex, letting him continue to believe that the work was too slow for the boss.
From here on the highway will be easy work, most of the terrain is already cleared and prepared. Until the long bridge over the Ganoga chanel, the construction will be a piece of cake, so to speak, or at least that is what John Gabber says and thinks.
The mosaik on the second picture below shows the whole length of the bridge.
pic.55.4
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pic.55.5
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Michael Arven, we know him as the young student designer that made the weekend home plans for several people in Grasslake, such as Gabber and Allheimer's cottages, is still studying architecture in the Frampton University, where he also lives most of the times, but sometimes he gets homesick to Access and spends some time with his father, brother and his Nanny called Lizzy. John Gabber has been keeping a close eye on him and his studies and thinks about hiring him once he finished his senior draftsmanship. Spomeone like this can always be useful in the construction departments of Gabber Inc, John thinks. He has been very satisfied and impressed with his designs of these weekend homes he made when he was only 15 and 16 years old. Strongly supporting and encouraging him, John Gabber invites him for lunch or breakfast whenever Michael is in the vicinity and every other early monday morning Gabber flies him to Frampton at the same time as John goes to his office. Arven then continues to visit his university.

pic.55.6
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg810.imageshack.us%2Fimg810%2F7897%2F556framptonuniversity.jpg&hash=07d67c478830da0f54a01411afaada27c2b40d16)

Now let's have a look at Donovan's new construction supplies outlet in Valmore South (now Access Center North). Paul, we also know him as the Playboy and a real good customer of several bars and clubs in Access, has founded a new oulet of his construction supplies. After he bought out a small farm in Valmore, the construction of his store wasn't too long and supplies have already arrived and stored, even if the mainbuilding and office have not yet been buil.t The outlet should be open to the public within the next week or so already, but the the rest of the buildings will only be done by next spring.
Paul Donovan is in his mid thirties now and still flirting around with women and that is why some folks have baptized him as *the Playboy from Beecherfalls*. He is also known to spend his money as fast as he earns it. I wonder how much he spends every week like this...hm?
Most of his construction wood comes from Beecherfalls, the rest from Bluespruce Sawmill in Bluebay. Is this a competition with Slye's sawmill to become?

pic.55.7
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The plans to build a small town in Phlox aren't even finished yet and the construction of some roads are already in the progress. The civil engineer Riichirou Takahaschi, who is the designer of this project is surprized that his plans are being realized without even having been told that the Company accepted them yet. The project is lead and financed by the Sterling's Enterprises from the Capitol City. Sterling himself wants this town fully functioning within 5 years and as we know him, he does not like loosing time. Takahaschi takes it as a compliment that his neighborhood plans are so quickly accepted. Only yesterday he received a short message from his boss that he is to take care of the fieldproject also, meaning probably that he will be hired as the project manager. No other explanations were added to the message, leaving Riichirou quite in the fog. Sterling always does that.

pic.55.8
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Not much of a story, but at least a beginning after the long summer. Hope you liked it and slowly get back into the story. More coming in a few days, we'll visit the town of Access itself and some wilderness far away and of course the construction of Highway 35. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nbvc on September 26, 2010, 09:25:18 AM
Great update. &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on September 26, 2010, 11:14:43 AM
YAY! Its back!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: figui on September 26, 2010, 04:57:23 PM
glad to see the story back.

great update as always  :thumbsup:

mauricio.

ps. 1000th reply!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on September 26, 2010, 06:12:05 PM
Quote from: figui on September 26, 2010, 04:57:23 PM
[size=08pt]first forums inhabitant from Uruguay..   first forums citizen from Uruguay..  first forums councilman from Uruguay..   first forums mayor from Uruguay..  first forums governor from Uruguay..
...i'm still the only one from Uruguay![/size]

ps. 1000th reply!

...hope you're not the only living from Uruguay...lol ;) nice signature.
Great to see you here, Mauricio.

Also great to see you here again, Cyclone1001 and nbvc.

Pssst.....Rumours in Access Center are that Johnny B.Bad got caught last night on Mainstreet. Something to do with drugdealing.....


Fred

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on September 26, 2010, 08:41:33 PM
Good to see things getting going again Fred. Will the new lumber competition mean increased productivity from an energized workforce, or will things be taking a different turn as lumber wars erupt? Nah, it'll be an energized workforce. Nice developments so far Fred. Looking forward to what's down the line.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on September 26, 2010, 10:28:30 PM
Good to see an official update from the Winding River Region.  If a bunch of large Hotels go up on Valmore Lake it may be trouble or the cottage owners who likely want a private getaway, not a huge tourist area.  We'll have to see whappens I suppose.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on September 27, 2010, 08:40:40 AM
So glad to see this back!  I love how the marsh lands look!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on September 27, 2010, 08:36:16 PM
Welcome back Fred! And what a comeback it is! Can't wait for more!

                  Your friend,
                                 Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on October 02, 2010, 08:53:52 PM
Nice to see another update again!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on October 03, 2010, 06:55:19 AM
Awesome work! That is some swamp to build a bridge on. Hehe.

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on October 03, 2010, 12:52:25 PM
Thanks guys, I am working on an update right now, hopefully ready in 2 or three days. Meanwhile enjoy the news articles in last sunday's Access's Tribune. See you....

Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg812.imageshack.us%2Fimg812%2F2078%2Faccesscenternews1965.png&hash=8d61b689fa6cb19fa7cc581cfb0aba068a5e76b9)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on October 03, 2010, 06:54:46 PM
I always love reading the paper...


:thumbsup:

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on October 03, 2010, 07:16:53 PM
Yes! Come on down to Wormwood's! We have used vehicles at low low prices!

Very nice paper Fred!  I always enjoy reading the little tidbits of history mixed in new from the Winding River Region.

- Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on October 04, 2010, 12:40:10 AM
Now in colour!

I like it Fred. The newspaper updates likely take some work, but they're a fun way to catch up on everything. I'll be sure to keep an eye on the mayoral race now too.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on October 04, 2010, 01:26:29 PM
What a way to work yourself back into the fold :) That was a great update, as expected from you.

So Johnny B. Badd is getting himself into some trouble, eh
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on October 05, 2010, 11:50:57 AM
As always, the newspaper is a excellent touch.  Looking forward to seeing more soon
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cidwm on October 05, 2010, 04:57:07 PM
Can't wait for the next update.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on October 06, 2010, 06:54:26 PM
nice update.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on October 07, 2010, 06:54:01 PM
Thanks everyone.
I will be gone for a whole week starting tonight. My wife decided that it was time to spend some time on the beach somewhere in the caribean islands because I am restless and impatient doing.....nothing.... well. I'm not allowed to work or force myself physically on anything, but I hate sitting around.
So a week on the beach will be just fine I guess.

I didn't have the time to put together another update, although most of it is done, but uploading an unfinished update is not really my thing, so you have to wait that week. lol


See you soon and thanks again for the comments, be back soon.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on October 15, 2010, 05:13:51 AM
week....
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on October 24, 2010, 10:24:27 PM
I just got back from the trip to the south. Feel pretty good, besides a sunburn on my ears, nose and forehead......lol.

Update is coming up this week (before friday).

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on October 26, 2010, 05:49:50 PM
Update 56    Thursday September 30th, 1965
                  did you know today:
                                          - 1931 birthdate of  Angie Dickinson, American
                                             actress   
                                          - 1947 – The World Series, featuring the New York
                                             Yankees and the Brooklyn Dodgers, is televised
                                             for the first time
                                          - 1968 The Boeing 747 is rolled out and shown to the
                                             public for the first time at the Boeing Everett
                                             Factory

                                       

It was the first sunset since weeks that was pure and clear, no humidity and no more extreme heat. The people in Access Center seem all to be released from these hot summermonths of 1965. On the radio they even say that it is going to rain this week and temperatures should become normal for this time of year. Only yesterday it still was 36º Celsius (97ºF), which is very hot for a 29th September.
Things in Access Center were slow this year. Not many new buildings actually in downtown, but a lot of places have been sold and wait for the green light to either move the new owners or demolish the premesses to make room for new developments. One thing in Access is moving though and has never slowed down. It is the expansion of the residential areas. Home constructions have been going on like crazy for the whole summer and new homes and roads appeared here and there on the outer limits of the town, and that in any direction.
One place where a lot of houses were built lately is the northern part of former Valmore south, meaning the westside of the Valmore lake. There must have been built close to two hundred new homes in this area where once rich farmland lied. Miss White bought her piece of land for her Summer Hotel a couple of years ago when it was still purely in the wilderness and today the totality of her land is surrounded by new homes, kind of a suburbs.

pic.56.1 
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg401.imageshack.us%2Fimg401%2F9924%2Fpic561valmoresouthview.jpg&hash=c7a99f8eb55635a141e1fe49cf2f689220d46fb1)

To really see the difference in the region, here is a picture from early 1964.....

pic.56.2
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...and here below  the same picture from last month, August 1965. Both northwest and northeast have been expanded into new suburbs and are planned to expand even more next year.

pic.56.3
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We can clearly see the evolution of the place, so to speak. The federal Government is even talking about clearing the land for most of the surrounding Valmore lake for residential zoning. Something that Robert Yome and his friend Adrian McCoy do not agree with at all and they are making their points at the monthly municipal meetings. If the council refuses the "lake invasion", then the Government will not zone the land for residential construction. Unfortunetly it's the mid-sixties and the word conservation is not really a part of life yet.

Two weeks ago our Johnny B. Bad was caught with a small quantity of drugs right in downtown Access. Although the law is very clear about this, Johnny was cleared because of too small a quantity in posession. Lucky him, he thinks, but he better make sure not to get caught again. The case didn't even go to court. Former Police Chief,  now a trucker, knew that Johnny was into drugdealing since his arrival in town, but no one really listened nor believed him and when he went to the Police Office and told the new chief Kyle Roberts that he was always right, Kyle made sure that he understood that it was only a very small amount that Johnny was caught with and nothing more, not even a starting point to think about any accusation.

pic.56.4
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Still in the suburbs, here's a new picture of this fall. Closely situated to the airport, this part of Access is considered as the nicer side of town. It has the school in its neighborhood, the small pondpark that the mayor wants to build over not far away and the shopping mall at the end of the West street. If you live here, you would be able to walk wherever you need to go. One of the councils has mentioned last meeting that a way to raise the taxes should become necessary very soon. Now with many new services already working, and new ones in the planning, the town will need better funds and a good way to do this without ruining some folks is to increase taxes in certain areas more than others, like this below so called *beautiful neighborhood*. Right now taxes are equal for industrial, commercial and residential and are at 6.8 %. The office is about to change this since Access Center has the lowest taxes not only in the Winding River District, but also way below as other towns and cities, such as Bluebay with an average of 11% and Sandom which is about the same size as Access, of 9.5%. Cities, such as Beecher falls and Frampton have high taxes with an average of 12.5% to be able to survive and offer the services needed.
««" Our town has gotten to a point where we have to make choices before we ruin ourselves," the counceler said in the monthly meeting,"and instead of raising the taxes equal to everyone we should consider those people who earn a lot more and live closer to the services to have them pay a slighter higher amount of taxes than those who live further away from all the conveniences and even those who can hardly effort a taxrise. Also should commerces pay more and industries who make profit with our residents help." »»
His words were loudly applaused when he finished and sat down. The Mayor nodded firmly, showing that he is totally supporting his idea, so did did most of the rest of the council.

pic.56.5
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Also some new federal services have arrived in Access, such as the income tax bureau, welfare and immigration offices and finally the minister of transport has established itself in town. These Services are hosted in those new officebuildings that were built only last year in the south of the town. These very modern and futuristic offices have had brought in even some tourists from the bigger cities to see the wonderful technology of building with glass. This is new to 1965 and surely new to the Winding River Region.
Since it can not contain all the services of the federal Government, plans of more buildings like this are in the making, and before 1970 we should have about 2 to 3 more hi-risers like this in Access which is now reaching the 50,000 population limit. Oh my, times goes by so fast, remember when it was only at about 700 residents not so long ago?

pic.56.6
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Mayor Bartlett's wish to build over the old springwater pond where the town used to get its waters from in the beginning, has become an official subject. Many people reject the idea, of course mostly those who live near there. The land is town-owned and therefore a matter of the council's decision. Bartlett has been working on the council's decision and we probably will find out in the next meeting before the end of 1965. The Mayor's plans to offer the land to some commerces  and pay high taxes are a tempting matter for the councelers. The town of Access needs money soon, we all know that. It is growing so fast that it has become impossible to stick to the needed services with the actual budget they have. Every tax, every Simoleon from the town-owned services and properties are very welcomed. The mayor said in his last meeting that he will not be responsable when the town is going financially down, "Now is the time to do something, now that we don't have any problems yet, not when it is necessary, because then it will be too late and will cost us more to get out of the bucket. I can help you now, maybe not in two years."
A shame for those who would like to preserve the only piece of nature in the middle of town left, but I think that's it, it can easily become a supplementary income for the town, besides as Steven Bartlett puts it, "Nature we have everywhere outside of town, so much that we don't know what to do with it."
Good point, but what will he say in 2010?

pic.56.7
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I will be back with another update later this weekend. First I have to find out what the problem is why the game crashes when I try to enter the downtown area. It did it before, hope I don't have to rebuild the whole town again. This is also the second time that I changed something on the airport before leaving the citytile, maybe something to do with those airportfiles. I'm gonna have a look at it later this week. The next update will come from the Phlox area and also some new s from the miliary base in West River. A News conference is about to be planned, will they reveil what they're really up to now?

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on October 26, 2010, 06:53:04 PM
Nice little catch-up update. My game cannot get off of rendering with Software instead of Hardware (jeez) so im gonna have to re-install mine. The only way I see in solving your city tile problem is to try to enter it gain or possibly rename the tile for a short amount of time. Either that, or move the tile to another, unused, region and try to open it. Then move it back to the original spot and try again. Just my input. ;)

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on October 26, 2010, 08:03:50 PM
Quote from: KoV Liberty on October 26, 2010, 06:53:04 PM
Nice little catch-up update. My game cannot get off of rendering with Software instead of Hardware (jeez) so im gonna have to re-install mine. The only way I see in solving your city tile problem is to try to enter it gain or possibly rename the tile for a short amount of time. Either that, or move the tile to another, unused, region and try to open it. Then move it back to the original spot and try again. Just my input. ;)

Alex

Hm...some logical advice there, have to try it out. Thanks Alex.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on October 27, 2010, 12:50:25 PM
Nice update Fred.  Access sure has grown over the past year.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on October 27, 2010, 01:12:28 PM
nice update and comparison.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on October 27, 2010, 06:09:17 PM
Quote from: KoV Liberty on October 26, 2010, 06:53:04 PM
Nice little catch-up update. My game cannot get off of rendering with Software instead of Hardware (jeez) so im gonna have to re-install mine. The only way I see in solving your city tile problem is to try to enter it gain or possibly rename the tile for a short amount of time. Either that, or move the tile to another, unused, region and try to open it. Then move it back to the original spot and try again. Just my input. ;)

Alex

I tried all the above, I also tried playing around with my Plugins folder, nothing worked, I suppose the file is corrupt again.......reminds me why I love that game sooo much....lol. Geeez, now I will have to rebuild the freaking citytile all over again, oh my.... :(
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on October 28, 2010, 11:21:49 AM
Seems like Johnny B Badd needs to come up with a new gameplan if he wants to stay out jail and keep making his money :)

Its great to see you back and it was a fantastic update. I especially loved the before and after shot :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on October 30, 2010, 06:22:28 PM
Update 57     Thursday, November 10th, 1965

                                   today's anniversaries:
                                             - 1775 – The United States Marine Corps is founded
                                             - 1942 – WW II: Germany invades Vichy France
                                             - 1989 – Fall of the communist regime in Bulgaria.
 


The  television press conference was sceduled for 10 Am on Wednesday, but Colonel Neil Myers from the SL Army only arrived on 10:30 AM, which left a lot of people frustrated already at his arrival. The direct television diffusion was coming from the Access Center Museum (in the Valmore part of Access) for the first time from the River Region and was planned to bring an update on the gas leaking situation in West River and also explain in details why the army seems to be installed for the good there.
Over 500 residents from Access, Valmore, Phlox and Grasslake were present, so were others from Sandom and even far places such as Frampton and Beecherfalls. This is a nation-wide diffusion.

The museum hall was overfilled and some people did not gain access at all. John Gabber, Mike Allheimer, T.S.Slye, Guy Racsan, Jordan Meaden, Alex Puto, Charles M. Johnson, Steve Gibson and Henry Gabber were present and sitting right up front of the seatrows. Jordan and Charles are new to the group and all are anxious to hear what the Colonel has to say about the West River subject.

Tapping on the micro three times, the Colonel wanted to make sure that he was heard. ««" Ladies and Gentlemen"»» he started, then introducing himself and exlpaining where he was from, what he is responsable of and a lot of useless bla bla bla.
The briefing lasted almost an hour during which he explained the presence of the army in West River, the situation of the gasleak and showed some pictures of the base and area. Then he suddenly stopped and pointed to the public while saying :«« "Now, if you have any questions, please raise your hand and I will do whatever I can to answer them all." Dozen of hands raised all at once, making it impossible for the Colonel to choose the first one up. He pointed to Mike Allheimer, who was sitting right in the frontrow with his gang. "You Sir", Mike stood up and said, "Last summer's incident with the presumed invaders of the military base, has it been resolved? We havn't heart anything about this ever since."
"Yes" the Colonel answered, "some young fellows were arrested earlier this year and have been warned to stay out the nex time. The army did not want to mention any names or make it public for reasons that the teenagers stay anonymous."»»
Wow, that really cut off the speech of Mike, he look at John and all the others with eyes wide open, knowing that this statement was completely and totally false. It was them you invaded the base and not any teenagers as the Colonel stated. John pulled Mike down back to the seat, just to make sure that he shuts up and not reveil anything by error.
The Colonel continued answering questions. Many subjects were brought to daylight and many answers did not seem right to our curious characters. Charles M.Johnson, the new journalist from the Access Tribune got up and asked at his turn,
««"Sir, you said that the army will have a permanent base in West River, so I figure that the gaz leaking is totally under control now, right? But why did the army choose West River and that specific location for its base anyways, and please what happened to the rockskulls that were found there in the beginning?"
Colonel Myers:"Well, as the General said *While we are here, we might as well stay*. The location is perfect to settle down, we needed a base in this region anyways and we simply chose the West River site as perfectly suitable.", he then continued,  "About the gaz leakage, yes it is under control, it has been ever since the beginning anyways. There are scientific experiments done with that gas and that is why you see some people dressed in white around the base. The gas is known to be a slow burning element that could be quite useful in the futur as an important energy producer. Laboratories in Lakestead are working on how to refine it without the danger of the poisonous effect. Now concerning the skull huts, they were transported to a scientific laboratory in Lakestead where they are historically studied. That is not of our division anymore."»»


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He then also mentioned that the minister of resources will probably have the area mined in a way to *harvest* the gas. That is one reason also why the river is being diverted. (see pictures below) He answered other questions about the buildings, explaining that most of them belong to the Minister of resources and will be used for exploiting the gas in the near futur, again assuring everyone that there will be no danger to the surroundings nor the public, nor the army. He said that there will be a public tour of the site next summer, so that the people can be assured of the security of the installations.
After another hour of answering questions of the public and explaining the river detour in details, Colonel Myers decided to put an end to the conference and thanked everyone for having come and participated. He left without saying another word.
Mike looked again at John, Alex, Slye and Steve. ««" You know this guy is something else....., he has been lying for the last two hours without even blinking an eye. I don't freakin' believe one thing he said. Maybe there is some gas and that is just the perfect matter so they have a good reason to install themselves there, but why did they go underground? What is the reason behind all of this? And believe me after what I saw,.....they went down for a whole stretch to get all this soil out of there, did you see the freaking gravel mountain they dug out?"
John interupted, "Maybe you're right, I have a funny feeling too that some of his words didn't rhyme  nor make sense to me. There are hundreds of better places, mostly drier and flatter places for the army to establish their base in the region, why choose that specific one? But I also think that the gas could be quite useful, if it exists there. We already know that it burns slow and intensivly, not like other gases, and it never exploses, not even under pressure and high heat. Somehow that can be useful for one thing or another."
Steve Gibson asked in between: "You guys want me to make some more aerial pictures the next time again?" looking curiously at John." Yes, but be careful, don't overdo things and stay on the sides of the base, don't fly right over it like the last time", John said.»»

So the army is trying to divert the West River, making a sort of shortcut so that the long curve can be dried out and filled in. Is it to be able to dig in deeper at the mine and not to worry about the groundwaters? Or is it to create more exterior room to build the armybase as they say?
One way or the other, it will take some time to find out while the mystery of the gas continues. Why did they dig there anyways?

Here are some pictures of the armybase at the moment, of course everything below ground cannot be shown and besides we don't know anything about it.
The first picture shows the generalview of West River so we can see the whole  base and its surroundings. The green line represents the army base's territory.
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As we can see the operation river-cut-off has already begun. Once the river canal is build, to connect the shorter detour of the river, the rest of it will then be dried out and filled to even ground. A job the army says will take almost two years. The dark blue bars present where a mighty walls will be, the light blue is where the canal is going through. The rails also will be moving to the west (left on the picture) to make room for the planned airfield and the powerlines probably will stay, if not go underground. This is still not decided. As Colonel Myers mentioned, all this should be ready by the beginning of 1968.

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In a closer view of the futur canal you can see where exactly the river will be turned to. Boulders and rocks are being piled on the eastside to be later cemented and hold off the strong current during the rainy season flow-off in that sharp curve. (circled in pink). Once the canal and the wall are done, the work to dam off the river to the natural flowline will begin. A temporary dam will stop the water from entering the older path, while it then can be filled and dried out.

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Here are some more pictures that were shown at explained at the press conference. A general view of the actual armybase, showing the barracks, the twintowers that are supposed to be for the mine, what is supposed to be the famous *valve* ,hangars of all kinds....(why so many? And what are these being used for anyways?) the waterpump and tank and some others buildings under construction. The pictures below will speak for themselves.

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I hoped you liked that update. I should be back soon with the follow up of that story, and also we will go back to Phlox to see how things are *growing* there. I heard that Slye bought some more land near his sawmill. Is he again enlargen it?
I started rebuilding Access Center again, now that it became impossible to enter without crashing. It will be a little different, though keeping the major buildings intact. I have an older saved citytile from that tile, but like in 1960. It has changed since then..... :(
Now I learned my lesson and I will make a safefile of every tile after having played like 2 or 3 times with it, just in case that I can go back when something like this happens again. I hate when the game crashes and citytiles become impossible to enter....Darn!
Thanks for leaving a word or two and keep this MD/ CJ growing and encouraging me to make it more interesting.

Fred ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kwakelaar on October 31, 2010, 12:17:41 AM
There is certainly some extensive construction going on at the new military site. Nice presentation that indeed caught my eye.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on October 31, 2010, 04:40:56 PM
still discussions as to what the nature of the work done at West River.... i am still convinced it is gas weaponisation...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on November 01, 2010, 01:15:59 AM
Nah, he's just investing in land so as to attempt to defray the effects of the rumored tax increases, heh heh. Keep the taxes as low as you can. With 11-12.5% taxes, it's no wonder the region around Access is so popular. Nice retrospective update Fred, and the new news around the military base in interesting. Nice work setting up the dredging for the canal. Looking forward to seeing how it all turns out.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on November 01, 2010, 11:12:23 AM
Great update Fred.  The Army sure is cooking something up.  They must be spending a small fortune in this area.  Whatever the Army is up to in that area I'm sure it is worth the cost of this huge project.

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kalvar on November 02, 2010, 07:36:11 AM
very interesting this project is to build a base are well equipped.

I have desire to see it finished. XD :) :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 02, 2010, 09:48:39 AM
Thanks guys, glad you enjoyed the armybase. Only hope you like the story too.... ;)

I finally was able to open the Access Center Downtown citytile while playing with every option I had, including the plugins folder, changing the tile into another region, force opening it with notebook, etc and luckily (and don't ask me why and how, 'cause I have no idea) I was able to open it, but.....
I would say about 80 %, if not more of the model and texturefiles seem to have disappeared (never seen this before) Although all the needed files were still in the Plugins folder, ingame they were not present. Only the props on the lots showed. Strange!
Most of the growable lots were without the model and texture and ALL of the ploppables were completely gone, but the *ghostlot* was still there, I had to run the bulldozer over the lot to build anything new on top of it first, although nothing was showing.
So here is what my downtown looked like when I entered, ...

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I had no other choice of bulldozing everything that was missing something and it left me with this below.

Well, too bad, but I have to start all over again. Actually it ain't thaaaat bad because most of the roads rails etc and the general outlay was still intact. The only thing I can do now is to rebuild as close as it was before with the help of pictures that I took before. Of course, it will not be the same at 100% because most of my town were growables and I don't want to start using the plopbuilding cheat for everything, but the most important buildings that we got to see in the previous updates (and those belonging to the characters) will be back on their lot or let's say, very close to it as possible.
I also had to rebuild the RHW, because it was completely gone. So, this is what the town looks like  as of right now, after 1 hr play of bulldozing and repositioning some roads, rhw, rails, etc.

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It will probably take a couple of weeks before I finish, I will then make a copy everytime I play in it. Oh yeah, I learned my lesson now! lol ;)
Of course, updates will be uploaded every week the same, but nothing directly concerning the downtown area will be included, until it is finished for good.
Thanks for understanding this bad luck and hope you'll enjoy the other tiles while I continue to rebuild the downtown of Access.

See you soon with an update of Phlox County, near the big bridge and Slye's sawmill. (btw, Slye bought out all the land that burnt down a couple of years ago, can you imagine what plans he has in mind?

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on November 02, 2010, 10:13:46 AM
scary but at least it was only one city tile.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: RustyXL on November 02, 2010, 03:23:02 PM
The update about the army base was great, the story just keeps getting more and more interesting. Sorry to hear about your issues with Downtown Access, hopefully it won't take too long to rebuild it.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on November 02, 2010, 06:48:24 PM
Nice work Fred!  Maybe they are "harvesting" the gas in the giant tank eh? Guess we'll all just have to wait and see. Sorry to hear my suggestions didn't work. :( But, that's life eh? I have to go back and redo my whole "Alex" folder, I don't look forward to that this weekend. Not to mention re-install my SC4 (again for the ump-teenth time) and FSX.

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 02, 2010, 07:02:33 PM
Quote from: KoV Liberty on November 02, 2010, 06:48:24 PM
Nice work Fred!  Maybe they are "harvesting" the gas in the giant tank eh? Guess we'll all just have to wait and see. Sorry to hear my suggestions didn't work. :( But, that's life eh? I have to go back and redo my whole "Alex" folder, I don't look forward to that this weekend. Not to mention re-install my SC4 (again for the ump-teenth time) and FSX.

Alex

I just know what you feel like, good luck though ;)
Thanks everyone for dropping in and let me know that you have been here.


Update 58  Friday, December 24th, 1965

                                      It was the day before Christmas:
                                                          - 1777 – Kiritimati, also called Christmas
                                                             Island, is discovered by James Cook.
                                                          - 1941 – World War II: Hong Kong falls to
                                                             the Japanese Imperial Army.
                                                          - 1968 – Apollo Program: The crew of
                                                            Apollo 8 enters into orbit around the
                                                            Moon, becoming the first humans to do
                                                            so.

                                                         


T' was the day before christmas and seven days before the end of the year 1965. Most of the people in Access Center, Grass Lake and Phlox are busy preparing the holiday's week. John Gabber stopped every work on the highway which was about to cross the massive Winding River again. Loggers, roadworkers, heavy machinery operators, architects, Surveyors etc , all got home for christmas.  So did many others, Slye closed down his sawmill for the week, Alex Puto left to Frampton to spend some time with his parents, so did Tom Kohler back to Beecherfalls leaving his bus buissness in the hands of his best friend who is also a driver for the Company and Johnny B.Bad to Reverantville, visiting his parents. Nethaniel Wellington has no time for the holidays relaxation, because his stores are running fulltime at the moment and why spend some lazy days at home when you can have a busy time and make lotsa money? Neth also has too many plans in his head at the moment, plans of largening his buissness. Riichirou Takahaschi went to Japan to spend the holiday season with his family, he took along his sister. Jordan Meaden is on school vacation and will spend his time with his father Jerry back in Vancouver at his Grand parents, maybe do some Bayfishing and skiing in those beautiful mountains. Guys Racsan will be in Grasslake with his father Tony who has become a little sick in the last weeks. His age doesn't help and ever his wife died last spring things are going downward. Michael Arven is in Bluebay for the holidays with his father, brother and his Nanny Lizzy. Harry Wormwood will spend time at home with his wife Maria and his one year old son Aldo, studying also the possibility to open a second little cardealership in evergrowing Phlox. Diarmuid MacGormain, now almost 18 years old is with his parents, Ristead and Finuala and also inviting his best friend, our little Billy (William Gabber), same age. They have in mind to go wander around the untouched nature nearby and do some serious biking. Steve Gibson unfortunetly will be busy transporting folks around the area with his beaverplane and Paul Donovan is again busy running after every girl to his likes he sees playing his playboy character with his 36 years. He always says he has a ball of a life....lol. Being busy with the church and the christmas messes, George and Patrick Westwood are all over the place preparing the churches both in Access and Phlox for the holy season. Michael Truex flew down to Tuscon, Arizona to his family members for the week. He hasn't seen any cactus and oilrigs for a long time. Unfortunetly Gregory Badger is on service at the army base in West River for the next two weeks, while Barby White enjoys the vacation at her Hotel in Access/ Valmore with her so precious guests.
All others are doing something also during this time of the spiritual season and everyone is in a good mood, seldom seen for some of them. (ehem)

In Access Center, the mayor decided to have the airport moved to another site. At the moment it is too close to the ever-growing town and instead of enlargen the airfield for some million of §'s as it was planned, might as well spend that money for a better reason and build a new airport where it will be able to grow with the region. Not a specific location has yet been decided on, but the north-east of the Access County near the Winding River should be a perfect choice. The area was aquainted by Access from Grasslake, now belonging officially to the Access County. Guy Racsan will re-buy the land of the airport that his father sold for peanuts to the municipality many years ago. He will use the land for his futur plans of his buissness expansions and also sell off smaller lots to different Companies who want to come to Access and start an industrial buissness of their own.

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Just a short jump to Access Lake Valmore, where houses are lately build like cookies baked at the local bakery. Continuing like this there won't be a squarefoot of beach left for the public to access the lake border except for the small public beach near the highway. Everyone new to the region in the last three months is looking for a terrain on or near the lake, eversince the Government decided to unleash the area for residential zoning. And prices of the lots are somewhat ridiculous, only 200 § for half an acre of land. (approx ¼ ha), enough to build two homes on it.

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We haven't really been to Phlox in the last year, besides showing the plans that our Riichirou Takahaschi made for the new residential development. Well, eversince a lot of work has been done there, some deforestation has begun, roads were laid, (not yet asphalted) and to our surprise quite a lot of lots have already been sold. Although Phlox has no major commercial center, nor much of industries yet, a lot of folks from the exterior have been buying out the terrains up for sale and some have already started building their homes or even finished and moved into them. Surprisingly about half of the new settlers in Phlox are from Access Center having received an excellent price offer for their homes and terrain back in Access. Access Center has become commercially very interesting for new buissnesses and investors and therefor all kinds of terrains are seeked out wherever commercial or industrial zoning is allowed by the municipality.
This is of course a welcomed opportunity for the folks from Phlox, growing their small village to a town hopefully in a short time and become the second officially town in the Winding River Region. Will there be a competition between the two towns later, we don't know yet and surely Mayor Bartlett is not worrying.

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As we see on the picture below which shows a quarter of the Phlox county, much of it is still wild woodland without any roads nor access, but already a lot of the terrain is being put onto the market by the Lakestead Administration. Some exterior and serious investors are already more or less harrassing the farmers to sell their land. Some of them have accepted and others being here only since 4 or 5 years are willing to stand against to protect their property of being invaded by investors. The Simland's economy is at its highest ever seen. Prices of solid lands are rising with every month, especially here in this region where no natural conservation laws have yet been established or ruled for.
Phlox has become somewhat of a strategic location, where Highway 35 to frampton and Beecherfalls and highway 15 to the Capitol City of Lakestead meet. A few folks of Access and Phlox believe in a major population explosion within the next 5 years. An investor from Bluebay even told me secretely that he thinks of Phlox becoming the capitol of the region soon enough and will pass by Access in no time.
Phlox will soon need a mayor also, now still being administrated by Lakestead, but as the federal law states, if a municipality reaches 2000 population, it will automatically become independant.

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As we can see here again as the Civil Engineer Riichirou Takahaschi planned, are the residential and commercial areas already given out for zoning. The Lakestead Administration who is still responsable for most of the region (not only for Phlox), is about to figure out where to enlargen already the residential zones and also to plan some industrial zones which have been asked for by several big companies from all over Simland.

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In the next picture we see that the futur commercial center is already under construction, not much going on as expected by the engineers and architects, but at least it is a start. Most new commerces are still in hope to find a place to settle down in Access Center before thinking of coming here. Well, kinda natural to think so since Access has reached its 50,000 population mark last month and Phlox is still under 1,000 for the moment.

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Finally here is a typical picture to show you that the farms are being invaded by residences in Phlox. Some small commerces and homes are already in use and more locations and lots are being constructed on. *Evolution, evolution is the Sim's futur* an old man on the streets of Access once said and it really looks like it is becoming a reality here in Phlox. It has everything to become a Mega City one day: access to the river, access to rails, flat and even land, a little wet and swampy at times, but that can be controlled, two highways leading to the three biggest cities in Simland and of cause the nature that surrounds the area which is tremendously beautiful and which has been drawing a lot of Sims to come and visit.
We will keep a closer eye on Phlox in the next few years.

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Here is a picture of a closer view to see the new development in the Phlox County. All the lots that have been bulldozed and cleared have already been sold and are waiting for the construction. On the left the massive logging has begun and soon there also, lots will be sold.
By the way, there are two of our characters that have bought a terrain here lately, I don't know yet which lots yet but it is confirmed that Alex Puto and Diarmuid MacGormain's parents have bought a place for a home somewhere in this area. Alex loves the place he once said to Gabber and Diarmuid's father will be working in the area as for the Construction expenses and costs for the municipality as a Quantity Surveyor for the next 5 years, so he might as well settle down.
True, the area looks nice and peaceful, but what will it be in a couple of years?

pic58.8
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And finally to end this update with some general news of Simland. In the last few weeks our bushpilot Steve Gibson has been quite busy flying around the unreachable part of the region to bring people to different places for surveying the land and the resources, especially such as oil and coal. There is Frampton's big Oil Company (Frampton Oil Ltd) who is intensively interested in the swampy area on the eastside of the region lately. (on the other side of the Stoke mountains. Did they find some oil there?

pic58.9
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Regional Map for reference (Warning: detailed large png picture)

http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/2638/1965windingrivervalleyn.png

That's it again, thanks for dropping in and leaving a note. I will be back later this week with the continuity of the highway 35 development and we also have a look at some of the properties by the famous and rich Rundi Sterling who seem to own a good part of the Stoke mountains (almost one third of the Phlox County). Then soon after we will go and see Grasslake which has established a new building and development restriction in their county, new to this region anyways.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on November 03, 2010, 03:05:04 AM
another fin e update i particularly like the look of the ploppable use.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on November 03, 2010, 05:25:29 PM
Awesome updates Fred! The action in the Valley certainly is getting elevated with the military lying.

                         Your friend,
                                        Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on November 04, 2010, 05:49:02 PM
Love the region shot Fred!  I find that that half the challenge of this game is to create a nice region view, not only nice cities.  I admire how you have taken the time to plant dense forest and detail that huge region.  It truly makes for an astheticly pleasing region.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 04, 2010, 08:19:07 PM
Thanks mightygoose, concerning residentials, commercials and industrials, only 10% is plopped. All others are fully grown.

canyonjumper, so you too think that there's something fishy with the army. I am sure. ;)

MattyFo, you're so right when you say that half of the Play is to create a nice region. I used 7 different treecontrollers in this region, hardly recognizable in the regionview though. I also used 4 rock mods. Different part of the region, different rockmod. Glad you like it.

Here's the same region without any writing on the picture, just as it is....oupps, or will be...next year, 1966. ;)
You might see that the downtown Access Center city tile is still more or less empty after the crash, but it is a lot of work to reconstruct it with pictures only.

Fred

http://img600.imageshack.us/img600/8523/wrp1966.png
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on November 05, 2010, 05:53:12 PM
Sorry I haven't checked in for a while, but everything is looking great!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 05, 2010, 09:21:35 PM
Update 59
                         Tuesday, February 8th, 1966
                                 today on this date in:
                                          - 1807 – Battle of Eylau – Napoleon
                                             defeats Russians under General
                                             Benigsson.
                                          - 1952 – Elizabeth II is proclaimed 
                                            Queen of the UK.
                                          - born Nick Nolte (1941), James
                                             Dean (1931), Jack Lemmon (1925)
                                             all american actors.



We will have a *wild tour* of the region today, visiting places we haven't been for quite awhile and jumping from one place to another on the map. On the menu will be Grasslake, its development into a big village and also the new and sometimes outragious conservation laws they have now. Then we take a tour right into the deepest forests of the Stoke mountains and visit the *temporary end of the highway*.  And at last have a look at the forgotten Sterling County, where things seem to move very quickly. We will also talk shortly about the sudden accidental death of one of our characters and other smaller updates worth mentioning.

It was a very sad day for the citizens of Access Center yesterday when the former Mayor and Founder of Access, Paul Hubert, was burried in Valmore. Paul Hubert died accidently last week, falling of his roof while trying to repair the chimney by himself. He was the founder ofthe first independant municipality in the Winding River region,  Access Center in 1957 and stayed Mayor until 1963, for a full 6 years. Responsable for creating a beautiful village at the time and have brought it up to a small town within only a few years, Paul was loved by the whole population, old and young. As he is the founder and the first Mayor of the town, Mayor Bartlett and his counselors have decided to name the newly planned hospital that is going to be build in Access in his name. *The Paul Hubert Memorial Hospital*. His burrying took place in the Valmore part of Access in the new cemetary on the lake. Half of the town was present and the hearse was escorted by a Police car.

pic59.1
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Now, let's hop over to Grasslake where most so called *rich* Sims live. We remember of course that folks like John Gabber and Mike Allheimer have their weekend homes here, but also that Guy Rascan, his father Tony Racsan, Andy Dubold who died last year and others. The village was formed back in 1962 and a Mayor was chosen, although the municipality is still under Lakestead County's supervision and administration.
Well Grass lake has changed since we last saw it, not much on one side, but a lot on the other. Nature is still around and taking most of the county's space, but the lake has become an attraction for homes, weekend houses and cottages in last 3 years so much that the council of the village realized that they are losing the beauty of this once fully wild lake. Too many homes and houses on most sides of the lake are now all what we see when we get close to the lake. A shame, because this once was a paradise. Only bigger lots of some richer folks are still untouched and wooded, including the 100 acres of John Gabber, 1,480 acres of  Tony Racsan, the 320 acres of Bluebay First Bank Manager, some 200 acres of the Northern Rail Co President and the 20 acres of Mike Allheimer. Besides that......well....the rest is built on I guess.

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Last fall, October 1965, the council and many landowners in Grasslake have secretely met and chosen to put an end to this discouraging  invasion of homes and houses. The project was called the *Grasslake Conservation Plan* and was presented to the administration office in Lakestead (Simland's Capitol) and it didn't take long after that it was adopted by the *Office of Protection of Natural Habitats*. A serious law was implied to conserve wild lake beaches and banks. The OPNH, which exists since the late 1920's when Lakestead's lake Marble was invaded like this and some intervention was needed to keep some lakebanks in a natural form. It was Simland's President Harold Hamschneid who made it possible.

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In Grasslake the situation looks like this now. The western part of the lake was totally put under the OPNH law and some private lands need now permits from the OPNH to alter any terrain or even cut down trees. Grasslake has about 1600 residents, most of them only on weekends during the warmer months. In the winter the village shrinks down to maybe 200 at the most. When the votes for this project was asked for, only 116 voted yes and 22, no. The participation was very little, but the law was adapted.  

pic59.5
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Now some closer pictures of Grasslake and the surrounding area before we only come back in a couple of years. The pics will speak for themselves...

pic59.6a
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Now we will have just a short look at eastern Phlox where the big swamp bridge gave Alex Puto some headaches last year. Surprisingly some homes seem to have rooted here lately in these still fairly wild parts of the region, and signs of some deforestation have been seen, probably for new farmland, since most of the farmland back in Access, and Phlox are being quickly absorbed by the need for residentials and commerces. It doesn't seem to be easy to build in between swamps and .....swamps of course. And why are some sims so interested to live here anyways in this insect infested area?

pic59.7
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While we are in the area let's go a little south and visit Rundi Sterling's acres in the Stoke Mountains. No one really knows how many acres he owns here, but I can tell you that it is in the thousands. Mr Sterling, the richest Sim alive in Simland is the president of the Sterling Enterprises which include the three most important financial institutions, lawyer offices, General Insurance companies, Lakestead health institutions (plus one in Bluebay I think) and of course Sterling Southern Import/Export, which means more than half of Frampton's harbour belongs to him also. Besides that, which makes up about half of his fortune only, he owns land enough all over Simland and some in neighboring lands, to be able to found his own Nation, plus so many smaller buissnesses (as he calls them) that he forgot about most of their existance. The man is rich and he knows it, and this makes him one , if not the most powerful man in Simland. We have spoken about him before a little, but I really wanted to get him known to you, because he will bring some importance to the region soon.

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Rundi is from aboriginal descendence, sims that used to regne the regions in Simland before the 17th century.  His great-grandfather still used to live in the Stoke mountain area they say and that's the main reason why he bought the Stoke mountain chain. He is married to Tyla Mastaila, also a native to Simland, has five sons and three daughters aging from 19 to 32, was born in 1902 in Lakestead (which makes him 64 years old), where he still lives in the most beautiful and biggest Penthouse in the Nation. I think we have seen it with the *Who Lives Where* part of this MD earlier.
In 1957 he bought the Stoke area and we know that it must be something like 28 to 30 % of the Phlox County. Exactly where the borderlines are, nobody really knows yet, not even himself, because when he mentions his *mountains* and rolls his hands over the horizon to show their location, he seems to own the whole place where the heavens meet the ground.
Actually we know it must be some thousand of acres big. I would have to go to the Administration office in Lakestead to find out for sure.
Sterling has been ordering to build some gravel and sandroads into the mountains int he last two years, so that he can visit these densly seeded forests one day and access the top of the two highest mountains. At 64 he is not able to walk all those hilly and steep mountains anymore he says, but would like to see his most appreciated land of his ancestors and maybe find out where his Great-grandfather was born. The road takes us deep into the heart of the Stoke mountains. No one is able to go there since a gate closes the access.
Here, at the gate,  lives his best friend and also his right hand George Troy, who has been working for his family ever since he was 8 years old. Now Troy is 70 years old, still working for the Sterlings as guardian and personal advisor for Rundi's lots, has his own little bike repair shop in Phlox (near the bridge, remember?) and also works part time in the little highwayworker's Canteen near the Highway. Troy is largely appreciated in the canteen by the highway-workers and loggers and especially his *Georgeburger* as he calls it, is widely appraised for.

pic 59.9
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From here we leave civilisation behind and climb the mountains up to the top of Mount Stoke, where the cliffs drop down several hundred feet. Here Sterling wants to build a castle soon. A castle that was bought in Europe, dismantled stone by stone and been shipped to Frampton's harbour to be later reassembled right here on top of this cliff. He calls it his future cottage. Wow, don't we all wish to own a cottage like this?

pic59.10
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Now back to Phlox and back to the growing part of the region. TS Slye bought the land that burnt down three years ago, he is about to totally cut it down since he's out of wood himself and is soon replanting the area with little pinetrees that should well grow here. It is, besides the sawmill, the first land that he buys and invested in. He says that it is for his *old days*, the trees can then be cut and bring a little addition for his retirement, they will grow all on their own anyways, Slye mentioned with a smile.

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Meanwhile the sawmill needs raw lumber. While the highway construction site is closed waiting for the Government's decision what direction to take, the 300 some sawmillworkers and loggers are home waiting at the phone to get the message to come back working. Only a handful of workers, mostly foremen and technicians are still on the sawmills terrain. TS doesn't seem to worry though and told the workers to take a vacation at his cost since he continues to pay 75% of thier wages. He says once the government decides, loggers will be back within the hour. Now Slye is looking to buy some standing woods from private terrain owners, farmers and whoever has a forest for sale. Maybe he'll buy some land with wood on it, cut it and then sell the land. Sounds like a good idea. He has to talk to John about this idea.

pic59.12
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Even Slye's railstation is slowing down and starting to have empty storage places. Trains have been coming in and leaving at the rate of at least one everyday for the last 7 months. Imagine what that represents in § for TS Slye? Of course he has to pay for the wood, pay the workers to make planks, pay his sawmill expenses and pay the shipping costs etc. But I still think a lot of profit goes right into his pocket. No wonder he paid cash for the 60 acres of land that's beside the sawmill and no wonder he wants to buy land too.

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While we're here in Phlox, might as well look around a little further. Below is the *cute* little downtown of Phlox, where some small commerces are thriving. Being just below the Highway bridge and at its exit, gives it some advantages. Access Center has become too far away for some folks that live here and they encourage more and more the local buissnesses.

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And lookie here what I found going through the streets around the highway bridge's town. Nethaniel Wellington surely never mentioned that he has already opened a Bake 'n' Sale here in the Phlox village. It seems to do quite fairly too, because during the time I was taking the picture at least 4 customers entered his store. This part of the village is still under construction and most streets are still awaiting the much wanted asphalt.

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And here is the latest of the Highway 35 construction. The site has reached the Mighty River again, for the second and last time, now it is the question to build over the marshland's outlet and contour the mighty River, or turn sharply north and cross the Winding River right here. The Talkings about this decision is still in the hands of the engineers and architects in Lakestead. John Gabber, the owner of the Highway Construction Company (Gabber Inc) of this project is waiting patiently for the final decision since two years, and now that he reached the end of the road, he is getting inpatient with the officials. His deadline is seriously being stupid, just like myself. In two weeks there will be not enough work left for his crew to continue if those *office-ties* (as he calls them) don't come to an agreement, and that can cost him a lot of simoleons. To keep his workers he will be forced to continue to pay the salary, otherwise they might run away elsewhere. So many jobs are offered in the region.

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They even had time to build a roadservice point there. Only a few yards of asphalting and then that's it. The highway workers will join the loggers who already stopped, to play cards.

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A last picture to show some details of the *end of the highway*. Here the machinery has already been stopped and not many SAims around anymore. Only the two pick-ups of the heavy machinery mechanics can be seen, which will take their time to repair those machines without someone yelling that it takes too much time behind. Some big rocks and boulders have been pushed into the river already, those who were dug up during the leveling of the highway. It will give the highway bridge a start, if they decide to cross the river.

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That's it again, oufff, that was quite an update. Hopefully it kept you busy reading. I will be back next week some time, but first I will have to do some re-building of my Access Downtown citytile. I hope we will be able to go back to the maintown of Access, the one that I am working on to rebuild since my last crash, in the next update or after.
See you then. Thanks for coming.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on November 06, 2010, 06:20:58 PM
Awesome update Fred! It was nice to catch up on all the areas we haven't heard from in forever ;D

             Your friend,
                            Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 07, 2010, 12:04:04 PM
Thanks Jordan, glad you liked the update of the other places.

I have been playing in my Access Center downtown tile for the last 6 hours and after growing and bulldozing to get another building to grow repeatively and some plopping I finally got something similar looking to what the city looked liked before the crash.
Oh yesss, I made a copy of it instantly....lol, and also the whole region.

It is not 100% the same, but the buildings that are most important for the story are all at the same spot. I changed only a few things and I left the airport empty because I think it is my airportfolder that corrupted the citytile.
Now, does anyone have a suggestion of airport files (pack) I can use, I would like to restart my airportfolder all from scrap. What are the most important, easiest and beautiful files and packs?   

Here are two pics, the one right after the crash and BEFORE rebuilding the town...

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg831.imageshack.us%2Fimg831%2F2450%2Flakesteadcounty1966befo.jpg&hash=4d75c3c25432f209e14464fb83119d1791ed1358)

...and the one AFTER I finished rebuilding it. Looks good, right?

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg585.imageshack.us%2Fimg585%2F8226%2Flakesteadcounty1966afte.jpg&hash=fd6055ce7acb2c71f844b8ef9f7e7fab39fc75b3)

See you soon,

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on November 07, 2010, 07:11:58 PM
Wow Fred, that lasy update was huge!!!! good to see that Access is back up and running
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kodlovag on November 09, 2010, 02:31:44 AM
Absolutely stunning region.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 09, 2010, 06:12:07 AM
MattyFo, I'm glad too to see the downtown back on the map.
kodlovag, thanks


Update 60

                                             April 4th,1966 (Monday)
                                             today at this date:
                                                      -   1983 – U.S. President Ronald Reagan calls 
                                                           for an international ban on chemical
                                                           weapons
                                                      -   1968 – Apollo program: NASA launches
                                                           Apollo 6.
                                                      -   1983 – Space Shuttle Challenger makes its
                                                           maiden voyage into space. 
                                                      -   1932  Vitamin C 1st isolated
                                                      -   1905  Earthquake in Kangra India, kills
                                                           20,000

I was able to completely rebuild the downtown area and surroundings of the Access citytile. It took me some 7 hours but it was worth it. Now I'll make a copy of it every time after I have played on it. So let's have a look at the "new" downtown. Get a cup of coffee or tea and enjoy this other big update of the WRP....


There was a lot of serious matter to discuss during the town's council reunion today. The doors today stayed closed to the public for the first time, which seemed to have frustrated a few citizens already. Mayor Bartlett said later that this act was done to protect the interest of the population....Protect them from what?
First on the menu's list were the town's public services that have been seriously put aside since two years. Services like the firedepartment, which is absolutely under funded and unorganized , the road and transport department, which needs new machinery to keep Access's roads in tact, municipal office buildings which are barely enough to supply the space federal and local offices ask for and finally the garbage disposal site which is about to fill up again.
Then other matters of importance rose up into the conversation, such as being in need of a public library to keep the population informed and educated, a court house to being able to set legal matters ourselves instead of shipping them to Bluebay everytime a law was enforced. Also coming into focus these last month is the matter that most of the town's used waters still go down the drain without treatment into the small Hooper Creek and then right into Lake Valmore near the swamps. People are starting to complain about seeing things floating on the lake, that do not seem to be of natural compositions, so to speak.
Finally they discussed about the "things" that are already in the undertaking such as the new airportfield that has started its construction, the filling of the little pond in downtown that has been drawn a lot of demonstrators to the nearby streets, the construction of the hospital near the Racsan Racing Track and the demand for an indoor sportscenter and community hall.
Access now has a population of 61,000 citizens. They just need "things".  

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During last friday's night, a residential fire broke out in a small home, what was supposed to be only a small fire that could be controlled easily by the firedepartment turned out to be a local disaster with the death of two people. The fire started in the basement without knowing exactly what exactly caused it and spread within minutes with the winds to the neighboring homes, where most people were still sleeping. It took Access's firedepartment more than 30 minutes to arrive to the location, although the station is only 3 streets away and no traffic on mainstreet was reported at 11:00 hours PM. What happened?  

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The fire took the lives of two citizens that night and leaving the ruins of five homes on Elmer street east. The mayor is furious again.. He could be heard screaming in his office about the unbelievable incompetance of his firemen and demanded immediatly to revise the department's function. " This is the last time that this happenes with that freaking department," the Mayor yelled, " I want a functional firestation that is able to control a dozen of disasters at the same time now and nothing less. It happened back in 1963, it happened again on last friday, but it will never happen again and that is a promiss that I personnally will take charge of." he said on Monday morning to the journalist Charles M. Johnson from the Access Tribune when asked how this was even possible.

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The next day Charles Johnson, Access's Tribune new journalist, went by the firedepartment to ask a few questions and surprisingly no one seem to be there, the place was empty. Were they still sleeping or out on a call, he couldn't find out, but no body was in the locked office, the building seemed abandonned. Something's seriously wrong here.

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That subject was pretty harshly and seriously discussed in this morning's meeting at the cityhall and the results were that a new firedepartment, this time with 4 engins and 8 fulltime firemen and another 12 on call only will be build. Bartlett himself will see to it that this will be done properly to his expectations, he promissed to the people. The town is big enough to be in need of such a service, he also stated. Firemen this time will be hired from the exterior and have to have at least a 5 year experience to be hired by Access. The mayor does not want another death in his municipality caused by a fire as long as he is mayor.

As we know from previous updates, Access is blooming and looking for building spaces for offices and commercials. This time the Pizza Resto, the Motel and Access's first hotel were taken into consideration to be demolished and liberate some space for office buildings. All three owners agreed to sell for a good price , only the Pizza place and the motel will rebuild elsewhere in town, outside of the ever tossing together downtown. The little stores below on the picture, including the second Bake n' Sale of Wellington, refused to step aside from this area for the moment.

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The filling up of the last green space in the downtown of Access was not welcomed by a few demonstrators which roamed on the neighboring streets when the heavy machinery started leveling the terrain. This space is reserved for commercial use, something that the mayor and other members of the council have talked about for several years, ever since the well wasn't used anymore to supply the water for the town. To the public question why the mayor has decided to fill the only left *green* in the town, the mayor responded that they can see more of their so much wanted *green* than they can handle just 5 minutes out of town in every direction. End of discussion.

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As we can see in this picture the *filling is going well and has advanced rapidly. The Mayor wants commercials or an office bldg on these lots by the end of the year.
Citizen's comments were: *Where are my ducks gonna swim now - finally that cabbage smelling waterhole is no more - I liked the green around my house but didn't like the insects that came with it - that was a terrible thing to kill the last piece of nature we had in this town - I always got my dog to do his buissness there every morning, now I have to find a nearby neighbor that has a tree and lawn - glad that its gone, soon I'll be able to look for "goodies" in the commercial trashcontainers*...etc

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Something positive in Access now is the beginnings of the hospital construction up on Merryl Hills near the highway exit 76 North Access which will give it fast access to the region. Only past monday the heavy machinery, the engineers and architects arrived on the site. This has been planned for the last 5 years and hopefully it will be opened for public service before the year ends. The hospital will be able to manage a good amount of citizens at the same time they say, with a possible capacity of 900 patients, which is fairly good for the town. The costs will be absorbed mostly by the federal government and the minister of Simland's healthcare.
Already demands of several doctors and other professionals of the health system have been made and some already have settled down in the area. Access health clinic near downtown was too overloaded in the last year and big relief will be in store for them.  

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A view from further up reveils the actual location of where the hospital will be. A highway exit will also be managed to get to the emergency as quickly as possible. The hospital will serve the whole region for the moment, even if Phlox has already planned to have its own healthcare facilities in a couple of years.

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Above already we could see Racsan's Race Track that is close to being finished. Only a few smaller buildings for the cars and mechanics will be added and the final touch ups of the terrain and public parking and the track will be opened for the public by the end of the year. What was supposed to be for Racsan's private testing only in the beginning, turned out to become a town's public attraction. Here local races will be held twice a year for the moment, because it will still serve mainly to test out the motors from Racsan's Industries. As Guy himself mentioned ealier last year, it might be possible that he will be building whole cars soon.
A hotel for those invited  was also built and the ticket office with the canteen and washrooms are already done. The public parking will partially be on the other side of the road.

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In downtown Harry Wormwood who opened a used car dealership last year, already thinks that the spot is to his disadvantage. He wanted to build a garage to repair mechanical and carbody problems but the town refused to give him a building permit on these smaller lots at his first demand. After having explained his situation carefully and precisely, stating that he  plans to enlargen his buissness that will create several jobs for Access residents, he finally was accepted to build his garage on the far side (left) of his lot. Although Harry is not sure that his idea of his buissness will be effective and profitable one day, he goes ahead and invests his whole little fortune into this project that will be done this fall. He is already looking for some competant mechanics and painters.

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Something is moving at Gabber's Park which became abandonned when the socccerfield moved southward to the new location. The lot once belonged to John Gabber who planned to build his house here in the earlier years, but with time he gave it to the town under the condition only to use it for sporting events. So, a soccerfield was created for the yearly event of the regional championship. Later the field moved to a bigger site at the beginning of town. (we saw that earlier).
Now the excavator is back on the lot and clearing the branches and trees that were starting to grow. But more interesting is the fact that the two homes adjacent to the park have been torn down also and are being leveled. Nothing officially was said about this demolition near the Gabber park, but one thing for sure, it was ordered by the town. They say that the private terrains were bought by the municipality. Hm.....?

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Another problem soon to become reality is the amount of garbage produced in Access these days. More and more trucks are delivering more and more rubbish. Grasslake and Phlox joined the dumping location also. A lot of money can be made this way for the town, buying the right to dump their garbage always costs money, but Mayor Bartlett and the counselors ask themselves seriously now if it actually was a good idea. There's still room for another two years at least, the municipal inspector mentioned, but sometime after that, the town will have to buy adjacent lands to be able to supply clean streets in towns and that can become quite expensive, since lands belong to the farmers and they know what their land is worth.

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Now let's have a look at a few pictures of and around the downtown area of Access, starting with the old industrial Park which has almost moved out completely. Some of the terrain left behind is already being occupied by a commercial small tractor supply company. Garden tractors are starting to be on demand these days, especially for those who have large lawns at the Lake Valmore or Grasslake. Behind this company a Walmart will probably be build next year. This widely expanding store that was founded in the early sixties in the US has reached Simland last year in Lakestead and since it is well established there, a second, a third and fourth one in Simland have been planned in the next two years. It was chosen that Beecher Falls, Frapton, Bluebay and Access might be the new hosts.

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Here is where the new industrial Park of Access will rise, near the airport that is being moved to a new location out of town. Racsan built his two jet-engine manufacturing a few years back, now he will get neighbors.

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Everywhere you look around Access Center near the town's borders you will see small empty residential zones that are being measured, leveled, drained or build on. Growth in Access seems like non-stoppable. At this moment, spring of 1966, there are some 78 residential, 17 commercial and 8 industrial construction sites in the downtown area only. That is besides the 4 civic buildings and more than 7 new streets. ** ♪ ? Grow, grow, grow your home gently down the street  ?**...... no, wait-a-minute....wasn't that like... ♪* ? Row, row, row your boat gently down the stream ? *....or? ;)

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Again here we see that all those empty spaces are being prepared for the constructions soon to come. The Wilson farm below will one day only a memory for those who lived through it. The farm already lost half of its land to the highway and other residential constructions.

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In the downtown directly, the homes are being replaced by appartment blocks of different forms, shape and sizes. A new way to handle a denser population within the same space. This is what we see in all bigger cities and towns around the Simland nation.

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A last subject that we will talk about in this update is the airport project that was quickly accepted by the federal goverment and the municipality. After having bought a large area from the goverment, the town made the plans and when the goverment agreed to financially help the town with  70 % of the total costs of this regional project, the works to clear the land started and the loggers from the highway construction team were made available while they are waiting for the highway to continue. Gabber was released to see some of his workers being called back for work and Slye was happy as ever, as his sawmill started seriously missing logs to be able to continue to satisfy the demands of wooden building materials. Even Paul Donovan, also known as the Playboy of Access, has started to buy wooden materials from the outside.
TS called back his sawmill workers and Gabber his loggers, both groups were happy. Both also will be busy for the next 3 to 4 weeks. By then Gabber hopes that the goverment has decided in which way the highway will lead.

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Another big update that was, the biggest one yet I think. For those who have been leaping behind with this MD , will surely do have some serious reading to do if they want to stay with the story of the Winding River Project. (WRP)
I will take a weeks vacation on this and continue my part of the GRV II. Hope you enjoyed it.

Fred ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on November 09, 2010, 03:39:12 PM
Yowza! Another mondo update!!! You sure have been busy rescently.  I love how you make Access seem like a real city, facing issues that aren't present in the game. I;e Funding for road repair vehicles, the uproar of the citizens as you bulldoze away their green space.  It is fun to read your updates.  The pictures are great to.

- Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on November 09, 2010, 03:47:20 PM
superb work as always.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on November 09, 2010, 07:28:50 PM
*looks at the former Gabber Park and thinks back on the soccer games early on*

I suppose progress is progress, but I'm curious to see what's paving over that spot. Oh well, at least development hasn't closed in around the sawmill in such great force yet. As for the filling in of the pond, is it wise given the area's somewhat swampy nature? Hopefully nothing too heavy will be built there. It doesn't seem like it'd be too stable.

Glad to see everyone on staff is getting back into the swing of things too. They aren't losing any time now that they have something to do again. No more wastebasket basketball in the meeting room now.

Nice update Fred. I'll see you around GRVII soon too.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 10, 2010, 11:36:45 AM
MattyFo I think to make a story interesting one has to include some RL issues. It just makes it fun to read as you said, glad you liked it. ;)

mightygoose thanks for dropping by again.

Quote from: threestooges on November 09, 2010, 07:28:50 PM
*looks at the former Gabber Park and thinks back on the soccer games early on*

As for the filling in of the pond, is it wise given the area's somewhat swampy nature? Hopefully nothing too heavy will be built there. It doesn't seem like it'd be too stable.

Aren't you getting a little nostalgic here?....lol

Here's picture of what the Gabber Park used to look like a few years ago. We aren't sure yet, what it is going to become now, but I heard some rumours about a sportshall or indoor arena lately.

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The soccerfield was moved last year (1965) to the southern part of the town, just behind Wellington's Foodstore. We have seen it before, but just to remind you all, here's a picture of the new and improved soccerfield of Access Center.

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For the filling of the pond you probably saw on the picture that bigger rocks for better drainage and some drainpipes below have been used to fill the pond first, then the rocks become bigger and finally some solid gravel will cover it up. There will be some commercial services on this spot only, no hi-rise yet, maybe later, but the ground was prepared for a more heavier architecture.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on November 11, 2010, 02:58:45 PM
Two fantastic updates in a row, wow. The story is looking better and better, and getting more intriguing with each update. Access is certainly growing very quick, and looking better with each update too.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on November 12, 2010, 09:50:46 AM
Looking good so far.

I'm amused by the fire department stuff, mostly because I know what the real world is like. All I have to say is, thank goodness it's just a computer game, and we don't actually have to reflect any kind of reality. ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on November 12, 2010, 10:28:59 AM
I like how access is turning out!  &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on November 15, 2010, 07:00:02 AM
A lot of great pictures of your beautiful city there!
And the 60th update is great, too! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on November 15, 2010, 03:54:36 PM
About time I replied here ;D

Great updates Fred, that's too bad about the fire though... And all the progress in the city, it's great story-telling!

               Your friend,
                              Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on November 15, 2010, 06:10:57 PM
Holy cow, I missed a bunch of updates!

So much to say...  That's one huge valve!

And I wonder if the placement of the airport has anything to do with the relative closeness to the Army base...

That stinks about losing cities.  I haven't lost one in a really long time... makes me think I need to back stuff up!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 17, 2010, 05:18:12 PM
Thanks Friends for your comments, they're always welcomed and encouraging. There will be a new series coming up later this week. Remember the series *Who Lives Where*? Well, in between the regular updates I will add the new series called *Down The Road*. We will once in awhile choose a road and travel down it from the beginning to the end, showing pictures and explaining what we see in view 5 only. Somehow get closer to the region and our characters.

I will start by the end of this week and then continue with a regular update.

I don't know yet how many roads and streets I will choose to visit like this, but I guess somewhere in between 8 and 12 roads and streets, only the most important ones, including at the end the total length of Highway 35.

Great to see you all ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on November 17, 2010, 06:40:17 PM
Cool Fred! I'm looking forward to it.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 18, 2010, 05:20:52 AM
While you're waiting for the next update, here's something to study. This is the Lakestead County that I finally finished after two years of play. This also represents the Capitol City of my Simland, some 150 miles (190 km's) west of the Winding River. There are several smaller towns and villages nearby and they can be seen well detailed on the two links below the pictures, which show the original size of them, but be warned, they're big and in png.

I included are a satelite and a transportation map for those who are interested in my road, rail  and highway layings. The original map for this region was downloaded from somewhere, can't remember from where, but this map here was heavily transformed by hand terraforming to my taste and also to be able to build a big city in it. It does not really ressemble the original map anymore (besides some of the mountains maybe). The terra forming took me two full days, including the *fine-tuning*.
In the upcoming months I will finish the Frampton and Beecherfalls map, which I also will show you once it's done.

An update is due this weekend, so be there. ;)

Have fun

Fred


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Big satelite Map:

http://www.imgnook.com/7FK

Big Transportation Map:

http://www.imgnook.com/gLF
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on November 19, 2010, 01:15:40 AM
looks awesome, so this is the capital of simland in 1966, ok, there seems to be an unfinished mountain pass but i am sure there is a reason for that! (lower left hand mountain)

interesting.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on November 19, 2010, 04:57:55 AM
Fred - what textures or props are you using to create the flat dirt area?

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The stone areas blend in with the dirt and it's done very well. I guess years of MD'ing and CJ's are paying off? It's all very well done and I'm inspired by it






(for obvious reason I'm asking  $%Grinno$%  :D )




Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 19, 2010, 09:42:51 AM
Quote from: mightygoose on November 19, 2010, 01:15:40 AM
looks awesome, so this is the capital of simland in 1966, ok, there seems to be an unfinished mountain pass but i am sure there is a reason for that! (lower left hand mountain)

interesting.

The reason why I haven't finished the mountain pass yet is because there will be none, I just fogot to erase the one on that tile. I will do another mountain pass somewhere else in this region, a more logical one. Thanks ;)

Quote from: jmyers2043 on November 19, 2010, 04:57:55 AM
Fred - what textures or props are you using to create the flat dirt area?

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi148.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fs26%2Fjmyers2043%2FFred.jpg&hash=342461190c90a4a912efa26be1b607d369e8ba27)

The stone areas blend in with the dirt and it's done very well. I guess years of MD'ing and CJ's are paying off? It's all very well done and I'm inspired by it
(for obvious reason I'm asking  $%Grinno$%  :D )

Hm, I was afraid that someone would ask this.....lol..... The gravel texture (in red) is a mayor mod texture which exists in three colours, lightgrey, medium sandy and dark earthly. This one is the medium version which blends in perfectly with the Maxis dirt texture and the stones I am using. (a little experience on how to blend them in also helps)
Now, the problem is that I don't know the name of that mod, nor do I remember where and when I downloaded it, but for now I can say that this is NOT a PEG mod, because I hardly use any PEG mods (only a few gravel and rock plops and loggers) because they always interfere with all the rest of the common downloads.

I wonder when it is a mayor mod, does it say the name when you open it in the game? I will try it later this weekend and let you know. I will also go through my 14 Gb Pluginsfolder, just in case I find it.

I have that problem all the time, finding something....first it's my memory that fails me when it comes to certain and unimportant things in life, then it is the mess and the quantity of Plugins that I have taht confuse me so often of where and when I downloaded things. I use several plugins for several regions and even different city tiles and my biggest plugins folder is like I mentioned...huge...huge of 14 gb's.

The 1x1 dirtlots are my own made with the simple Maxis dirt texture

The one in blue is from Peg's site, it is kinda of a round mayorplop, not making something very good looking , but well and sparely used it can be interesting. The bigger rocks are also from Peg, most of them outside the water. The ones inside the water are from GDV, if I remember right. (hard to tell when you got everything on the net in your pluginsfolder....lol)
Then finally the green one is the same as the first, but the light phase. I also used the dark phase in this area at some places (not on your pic) and just enough to blend in some rocks and show some humid soil or wet sand just turned over. (I do a lot of oil and aquarel paintings in my free time, maybe that's where the idea came from to blend in the colours liek this)

I'm gonna keep an eye open for this gravel mod and let you know when I find it. Drop by once in awhile. ;) Thanks for coming and commenting.


(lol....Jim, I guess you want that for the highway challenge, right?....lol....;) )

Fred

EDIT: There's also the grassy and gravely mod that I once downloded from a japanese site many years ago, which can be seen on the far left side (bottom) of the picture or better on picture 59.11 on the previous page (sawmill) This mod replaces the animal plops in the godmode menu.(never use animals anyways) There are two colours, quite nice too. Another thing I can't remember where they are from, but it is at least 4 to 5 years ago that I found them on a tiny site. I use it sparely on almost every citytile, because it looks good. It even covers roads and rails, giving it a dirty, or old, abandonned and overgrown appearence.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: metasmurf on November 19, 2010, 10:50:02 AM
That's a nice looking region view you got there  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 19, 2010, 08:41:07 PM
Thanks metasmurf for leaving a comment. ;)


Quote from: jmyers2043 on November 19, 2010, 04:57:55 AM
Fred - what textures or props are you using to create the flat dirt area?

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The stone areas blend in with the dirt and it's done very well. I guess years of MD'ing and CJ's are paying off? It's all very well done and I'm inspired by it

First of all, thanks for telling me that it's very well done, coming from you it is surely appreciated. ;)

Now Jim, I found what you are looking for by playing and taking pictures of the mayor plop menu. These textures, first of all, seem to come in a set of sands (4) , several rocks and bolders (...and I though these were by PEG), some tropical mayortrees and several powerline towers (shown only one). They are from Heblem and available on the STEX. I didn't keep some of the mayor plops in that set because some needed another dependency-pack (of which I have enough now), and some of them I didn't like. Hope that helps......ready to continue your highway?.......lol ;)

Fred

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EDIT: Come to think about it, maybe there are some PEG rocks in that picture, I just saw that I indeed have some PEG and CP Mayor ploppable rocks in my Pluginsfolder. Which is which?....oh boy....I couldn't tell you, for you to find out. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 21, 2010, 02:34:20 PM
Update 61

Down the Roads/Streets...Chapter 1 - Mainstreet/Access Center

                                           
                                         Sunday, May 29th, 1966
                                                 today at this date... then:
                                                 -  1453 – Fall of Constantinople: Ottoman armies
                                                     under Sultan Mehmed II Fatih capture
                                                     Constantinople after a 53-day
                                                     siege, ending the Byzantine Empire.
                                                 -  1914 – Ocean liner RMS Empress of Ireland
                                                     sinks in the Gulf of St.Lawrence with the loss
                                                     of 1,024 lives.
                                                 -  1917 – John F. Kennedy, 35th President of
                                                     the United States was born
                                                 -  2010 – Dennis Hopper, American actor and
                                                     director died


This will be a new series, among the regular updates, about traveling down our regional roads and streets. We have done something like this before, remember the "Who lives Where" Series? Well, this time we will pick a random road or street and start from the beginning of it and follow it down to the very end while seeing pictures from every angle of the things worthwhile looking at or seeing. A couple of words beside that and it should become quite interesting to get to know certain neighborhoods in towns and villages and /or country roads and see the farmers and those folks that live out there in the middle of nowhere in the Winding River Region.

We start with a transportational map of the region, although not much has been opened up with roads yet. We will not include the rails. Only roads and streets and Highway 35 at the end of this series. Below are the roads and streets more or less in the country that we will visit. There's about a dozen of them that are worth visiting. Of course we will not go through all the roads/ streets, that would take up too much time. (warning: big png picture...2754x1238)

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Now here is the town's part of roads and streets that we will travel on during the next month or so, all in between regular updates, not to stop the stories of the WRP. There are 12 streets and roads worthwhile visiting, especially in the town of Access (10), which has now close to 60,000 citizens and only 2 in Phlox. There will also be the restricted road of the army in West River and the road that goes from Phlox to Lakefield (route 263) going side by side of the highway 15.

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Today we have a  look at the Main street in Access Center, which was the first named street in the region back in 1956. This street starts at the corner of the Access Road and heads west connecting with Western Plains road that connects with the Capitol City of Lakefield some 100 miles away (approx 160kms). Here are also the oldest buildings of the town, some still standing, most of them though have been torn down to make room to the modern appartments, commercials and offices. Only one building has been officially considered as a historical site, the little church.
We start off with the Access Rd and Mainstreet corner. Here's a partial view of the downtown Mainstreet.

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This is the first detailed picture of the Mainstreet in Access Center, the east side. As we have seen before and also talked about, the Gabber park was somewhat abandonned last year when the new soccerterrain was opened in the south. Today it is being cleaned up and prepared for something else, which we haven't been informed about yet. But rumours are that a community hall or a sportshall of some kind will be build next year. Across the street is the Police office with 18 fulltime police officers and the chief of Police, Kyle Roberts, originally from Beecherfalls. Its district is from Grasslake through Access Center and to Phlox for the moment, but when the federal Police moves in, which is supposed to happen within the next two years, Access Police will only cover the town and county of Access and Valmore, nothing more. It will simply become a townpolice
Beside the Police is our Mayor's house, he's been there since last year after he discovered that rats have moved into his former home on Baker's St. Further west, there is a Foto and Painting store, here Sims buy their pictures from artists all over Simland and take pictures of their family and themselves for souvenirs, passports etc. Some deadend street head north into a medium rich residential area, where most commercial store owners live, a quiet neighborhood, which is quite well surveyed and protected by the nearby Police.

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Further west, we meet the townhall which is still quite new, built only two years ago. Here the Mayor and the counselors decide what is and what is not good for their citizens. This part of Mainstreet, where it meets the Access Rd and the Sandom Rd, was and still is the center of Access Center. It is here where they had that big party when the Access Rd met Highway 35, remember?
Behind the townhall is Access's first monthly newspaper, which is now a daily paper. The old building is be renewd very soon, or maybe a new Printing shop will be build near the north of the Valmore part of Access close to the Museum, and the office only will stay here, still not decided yet. Right across the street is Kohler's Buslines, which has now busses that go to Sandom, Bluebay, Lakestead and even Beecherfalls, and Tom Kohler is already thinking of enlargen his busline into Frampton and all the smaller towns around the coastline of Siomland. He has to buy himself 14 new busses, which takes either a big loan or..... These last months Kohler has been often to Beecherfalls, he seems to have met a young beautiful woman named Jessica Parker. We don't know yet if this is serious, but I can tell you that he is not as often taking care of his busline anymore. Lucky for him that he has a trustworthy Manager since last year taht takes care of his business.

Beside Kohler's Garage and station is an old streetcar that they moved in from Beecherfalls to become a small Cantina. The car came by the rails and was simply tossed over to its location today.
Once you cross the mainstreet center, there used to be the old Olsen Pub, you probably remember the blue tavern which was one of the first buildings in Access Center. Today it is replaced by two big Office towers, which is occupied by lawyers, notaries, Insurance agencies, a small library in the basement and many other different offices. These two buildings were built less than 2 years ago.

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Here's one more view of those two towers, the tallest in Access for the moment. As we go further up the road towards west, we have Barby's Biergarten at the bottom, the place where some of our characters often meet on friday's afternoon. Here they talk about the week's events while enjoying a cold beer and maybe a snack before they all go home. Sometimes they plan all kinds of stupidities also. Just beside Barby's on the bottom is the Wellington Building, another office building in Access. This was the first office building in town. Owned by Nethaniel Wellington, it serves him as a supplementary revenu and also to host his own office of his Foodstorechain.
While we talk about Nethaniel Wellington, he also has a smaller appartment house on Mainstreet, just beside his first Bake n'Sale store. Only a few weeks ago he became the owner of the old theater and the abandonned postoffice. He bought these two probably for the terrain. I have no idea what he has up his sleeves again, but surely this "hotspot" on Main St will serve him for a specific use and a good profit, now that these downlots have reached orbital prices.

The old theater closed its doors last year when the new theater down the street opened and the post-office was also abandonned about the same time. The new Poat -Office is on Welder St today Wellington has one full year to tear down or rebuild/ renovate these two old buildings, the town council decided.

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A little bit further and we cross the Racsan Street which leads right to the airport and the hydrodam. We will visit this street in a later update. At the corner of Main and Racsan is the old little church that has been standing there since the beginning of Access. Now it is protected by the town as one of the very few old historical buildings left in town and one of the Westwood twins is taken care of it, I heart. On the corner of Racsan and Valmore St lies the big appartment block that is owned by the Baker family from Bluebay, containing a lot of appartments and stores on the first floor. The Baker family is one of those giant family owned companies that builds appartment buildings all over Simland, owning some 40+ buildings by now. Right on the opposite is the United Access Bank, the first bank in town, which used to be near the shopping mall behind the Biergarten.
Usually this is a busy corner with the Main street and Valmore going from east to west and the Racsan street heading directly to the former Access Airport. Of his three Bake n' Sale stores Wellington owns in the region, this one is the busiest one and most favourable of Nethaniel, where he himself still serves his customers on Thursdays and Fridays afternoons. At his lunch and break hours, we can find him relaxing with a coffee at the little "Cozy Café", just accross the street, which is a part of the Biergarten and of course owned by Miss Barby.

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And a little further and we see all kinds of Appartment blocks that have appeared a couple of years ago. In one of them, on Valmore street, James Gallagher opened a second McDonald's in town, after he relized that folks in Access crave for the famous hamburger.
On Mainstreet beside all these appartment buildings, only the health clinic is of interest to us. This is still the only place in Access, besides a few private Doctors here and there, where you can get medical help when you're sick or in an emergency, otherwise you will have to travel to Sandom for the closest Hospital, about 30 miles from here (approx 40 km). The new hospital in Access is about to see the daylight though, they say it will be finished by fall next year.

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Almost at the end of Downtown Access, we have that new theater that is responsable for the closing of the old one that we saw earlier, owned by Wellington now. Here new films that just came out, like "Born Free" and "Fantastic Voyage" are playing at the moment and both are late summer hits. This theater holds  double as many spectators as the old one and has separate washrooms for men and women, quite modern!
Here also our friend Johnny B.Bad hangs around at night (see little red spot) and delivers the merchandises that earns his living. The police doesn't know his new location yet, so..... not to get into trouble, I recommend to mind one's own business and not report this while keeping it to you, ok? Those who do, live longer, they say.........;)

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These below are the last buildings of Main Steet downtown. A few years ago this was still all farmland, pastures with grazing cows. One of the old farmhouses still suvived and is still habited by the former owner of the fields. The old Lady Mrs Grumstoom, now in her late 60's is not willing to give up her home yet. Everything around has been converted into ultra modern appartment homes. The coloured ones only were built last year.

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Again this is where only fields were before, appartments and houses are dominent in this part of town, which is almost at the end of town. Not too far from the dowtown, this area is already a lot quieter and cleaner.

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And finally the last houses of the town itself. Here is still a barn standing , a reminder of the farmland that once roamed the area. Today the barn is transformed into a local fleamarket, that is open on Saturdays and Sundays.

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The Mainstreet becomes the Western Plains Road here, just beside the new Racsan's Raceway. Although many farms are still around in this area, more and more residential buildings and homes are about to invade the grounds near the Highway 35. Only about 1 km (3-quarter mile) away is the only exit and entry to highway 35 that was built to contour the town some years ago. At that time, homes and buildings from Access were far away, but today, civilization is about to cross the highway and one day will conquer the last fields of Access..

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That was it, our first visit of the "Down The Roads/ Streets" series. Hope you like the new series as we will drive down the Racsan Street the next time, starting in downtown and leading to the Hydrodam. If you liked it, please let me know, if not .....welll....too bad, you can still say something. ;) I will be back later this week with another *down the road/street* update.

Have a nice weekend

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on November 21, 2010, 05:20:50 PM
it is a great way of giving us some geographical infil.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on November 22, 2010, 08:17:18 AM
Your city looks really great!
Some nice looking pictures there! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on November 22, 2010, 08:26:05 AM
Great stuff as always!  The farm lot as a flea market is a neat touch!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on November 25, 2010, 11:23:36 PM
Great to see even more details!   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on November 26, 2010, 09:21:33 AM
LOVED it! I love getting to know the cities and people behind the MD, and you have done that perfectly. It really got me in touch with Access, and I feel it is alive to me.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 30, 2010, 09:33:26 PM
Thanks mightygoose, bat, Battlecat, CabraBuitre and nedalezz for commenting. Nice to see you here. ;)


Update 62


Down the Roads/Streets...Chapter 2 - Racsan and Gibson St/Access Center

                 Thursday, June 2nd, 1966
                          Today at this date... then:
                             -  455 – Sack of Rome: The Vandals enter Rome, and
                                 plunder the city for two weeks.
                             -  1953 – The coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, who was
                                 crowned Queen of the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia,
                                 New Zealand and Her Other Realms and Territories & Head
                                 of the Commonwealth, the first major international event to
                                 be televised.
                             -  1941-Birth – Stacy Keach, American actor.




Last week we visited Access' Mainstreet while we drove down it all the way, today we will take two sidestreets of Main St. Racsan St, which starts in downtown near Wellington's Bake n' Sale on Main St , goes by the former airport and ends right in the yards of the Hydropower Company near the dam on Fingerlake. Then the Gibson St, which starts behind the shopping mall on Racsan St and ends near the construction site of the new Access Hospital. These will help us understand the way the town is built and growing out of its boundaries. Both streets are more or less paralel to Mainstreet leading from east to west.

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First we will take the Racsan St, right at the corner of Main just about where that small church that Patrick Westwood was chosen to take care of. This is the first church in Access and was built in 1955. Today considered as a local landmark, Patrick is slowly renovating the inside of it for it to become to place for tourists.
Racsan Street starts here, on Main Street and heads south through the middle of town towards the former airport of Access Center. Slowly winding through the older buildings, it comes by Patrick's appartment, which is quite close to his church. Then hitting a trafficlight near the shopping mall and contouring the big building.

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While doing this we can see Access's former waterhole being filled and making room for some commercial buildings. No one yet found out what these new buildings will be like. The preparation of the terrain is almost finished. The hole was drained with permanent piping which leads into the regular sewage system and will keep the place dry to be build on. Big rocks at the bottom make sure that the site is stable for heavier buildings. Some construction material has already arrived as we can see , and I guess the construction itself won't be very long.

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Just barely passing the construction site we pass the Gibson Street, which we will see later on in this update. At the corner is still the little foodstore that exists here since the beginning of the town. Just behind it is the JB Weller appartment block that a fellow in Lakestead owns. This highly modern appartment building was built only last fall and mostly richer Sims from the area have moved in sofar.
Another appartment block that was only built last year and offers highwealth services is the Greek State, owned by a rich Greek businessman from Beecherfalls, these high wealth modern appartments can be seen in several towns and cities, two in Access Center already.
On the upper right of the picture we can see where one of the town's counselors live. This is the home of Howard Higgins, the *right hand* of Mayor Bartlett and also the owner of several smaller hardware stores in Sandom, Access and Phlox.

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As we go down the street further south, it turns again just in front of the tractor sales buildings, where you can buy almost everything you need if you own some bigger terrain to take care of. Here once was the industrial park, now turning into a light commercial and residential neighborhood. To the top of the picture we can see Peter Moos's home, he is the owner of a big trucking company in Sandom. When our fist Mayor Paul Hubert died last year, Moos bought out the Trucking company that Hubert started after his mayorship. His wife didn't know what to do with it anyways and since the family did not have any kids to take over the buissness, it was the best she could do. Moos only thought that it was a wise decision to do so and get somehow involved in this region also, while he moved here only 3 years ago.
Below him is the Kruger Paint shop, which has been abandonned when James Kruger declared bankruptcy. Now standing empty for a buyer to take posession, which shouldn't be long.

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From the last picture on to this below, are only a few little fields of agriculture that still belong to a farmer near the former airport, but slowly and surely it is being swallowed up by the industries having found a new territory to build on legally. Racsan' Motor and jet-engin manufactures are just a part off to the left (on the picture), a couple of hundred feet on the industrial boulevard, we cannot see because they aren't on Racsan Street. When you come to the intersection where Racsan St turns right and follows the former airport terrains, you'll find the hardwood flooring company on the left, which is a kind of a filiate of TS Slye's Sawmill. I think Ts owns a part of it or at least had some investments in it. Further down the street, you have more industrials of all kinds and even some farm buildings stand nearby. These are the mainbuildings that belond to the surrounding farmlots of all kinds.

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Going further up the road it now leads into a more country like decor. Here we see the endline of the former airport and some more farmfields belonging again to the same farm as before. Going through a little forest we come closer to Access' suburbs, which of course can be easier reached by going through Mainstreet and then taking Park street south. Just here and partially on Park St, we see the tight and untouched forest of Miss Moarsen. Her husband bought that terrain 12 years ago and she only sold a lot here and there since to live a better life ever since her husband died a few years back. This standing dense forest never was touched before, and it is the only untouched terrain near the Access town left this way. It reaches down almost to the Gibson ST (which we will see a little later) and upwards (south) it touches the highway 35. Moarsen became rich when they sold the terrain to Racsan's father for the airport, which belonged to them and by selling many terrains to the town and for residential uses. Miss Moarsen today lives almost in downtown Access in one of those fancier appartments. Many deer and other animals can still be observed once in awhile in these forests, but as more and more people buy surrounding lots, the animals do not feel safe anymore and usually move out to the south right into the hills of the Fingerlake.

pic62.7

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From here on, the street continues partially through Access' suburbs and with a sharp turn southward it winds into the tunnel that goes right under Highway 35 to the Fingerlake, just over the little hill. It is actually here that the Racsan Street officially ends. This part of Access is the fastest growing part, concerning the residential part of town. A new house almost sprouts up every week in the last months here. Soon even the last farmfields nearby will give up to houses that people from all over Simland desire so much. At the time when the highway was contoured to this area instead of going right through downtown, the surroundings were all forest and farmlands. That was only 9 years ago.

pic62.8

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As we enter the tunnel, we get the feeling to enter a moist canal into the mountain, that's how wet the inside is and almost for 400 feet (approx 120 meters). Probably because of the near presence of the Fingerlake or the many surface springs in this area. The lake is in a mountain valley, completely surrounded by hills of medium heights. The air is a little colder and humid as we come out of the tunnel with an intersection. Surprisingly there are no traffic signs here. In reality, Racsan Street stops at the entrance of the tunnel, but this part is still called Racsan St  even by most of the authorities. To the right it goes uphill where some terrain filling is being done at the moment, probably for futur construction of something and to the left it leads to the hydrodam and then to the waterpumps that supply the town and surroundings with the cold mountainlake water. Let's have a look to the left.

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Not really far from the tunnel lies the waterdam which is supplying the electricity down to Phlox and up to Grasslake. An excellent revenue for the town since 8 years now. Lately the waterlevel went down a little, kind of normal for this year although a little more than usual. This year the rockcap below waterlevel showed up. the buildings we see here belong mostly to the hydro Company, which is in the town's posession. Taking the route over and around the dam we get to the near end of the street.

pic62.10

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Here's another view from a different angle to see the hydrodam. Something some folks lately noticed is that the water below the dam looks dirtier compared to the upper part. Maybe most of the people of Access don't realize that it is here below the dam where the mainpipe of all the used waters from town arrive and throws itself into the small river. Adrien McCoy from Access Center has been bringing this subject up in the mayor's office several times and has been complaining, while showing pictures of the situation, about the negligence of the council to never have done anything about this to become a future problem. McCoy also has complained many times about the garbage disposal site near the same small river a little further north, as we probably remember. The little river flows down to the Valmore lake. The town is studying the situation, they say everytime the subject is brought up, but no results yet since 4 years of complaints. Once Mayor Bartlett lost his patience in a monthly meeting and answered with a harsh voice, that there are far more important things to take care of first.     Well, this is 1966.....what else can we add to this to explain the situation.

pic 62.11

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This is the end of line. Here, on the left are the town's watertowers and waterpumps and filtration station. This is where the clean cold water comes from when you open a tab anywhere in town. This area is open to the public and you can park your car nearby and take a walk up the hill to see the whole town from up there, or walk around the lake which has a small trail by now made by local fishermen with the years of usage. A lot of folks from town come here during the nicer days on weekdays. Because this is a very cold springlake, no bathing is done, except for some younger folks and kids who enjoy this cold water. No restriction anywhere about this has been advertized.

pic62.12

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Now let's take the Gibson Street which starts of on Racsan Street and is more or less paralell to the Racsan St and leads down into the same direction , except that it ends on the highway side. Here again we see the construction site that is filling up the *old waterhole* of Access and the two Greek State appartments and the JB Weller appartments which we talked about earlier. Gibson Street passes right by the Primary school of Access. The school now has over 800 kids and 26 teachers.

pic62.13

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Just passed the school and the baseballfield, Gibson St continues west surrounded by appartment buildings of all sizes. Not far is the Church of Access and the appartment where the other twin of the  Westwoods lives. George is taking care of the bigger church and his brother Patrick who is renovating the smaller and first church of Access on Main Street. George wants to become a Pastor like his father later and he wants this church to become his one day, he always says to his brother. Pat is more the freeliving spirit and likes to preserve traditions and local historical landmarks.

pic62.14

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It doesn't take long on Gibson Street and we enter the suburbs. Here still some streets are on gravel, but which are slowly eliminated almost month by month. In this area also the construction of homes is well started, homes and small appartments are build wherever you turn your head.
A rare site these days in this part of the world, a gigantic vulture (encircled in yellow) was seen sailing the winds over the suburbs the other day. Less and less have been reported. Once there was a time when hundreds of them were hovering in the skies when the first settlers arrived. Where have they gone to?

pic62.15

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Racsan Street further up makes a tight turn southward only to turn back westward a few hundred feet away. Here we once again see the forest of Ms Moarsen which is its northern limit. People like to live in this area, the green, the smell and the sound of birds adds smiles to the residents. Unfortunetly appartment buildings are slowly invading the streets and this site will be lost forever when time has come. The kids from the Primary school a little back on the street once had the project to make a small description of the town and what it would be in 20 years, and a little fellow wrote that the town will have roads above the ground and small trains will travel on them to bring the peopel to wherever they want to go. The trees will be in glassdomes only and no one will be able to touch them anymore. Only through the glass will they see how beautiful they are.
Well, the future is promissing I guess.

pic62.16

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Not far from where it takes a sharp turn, the Gibson Street stops almost at a field near the highway. Here is the big construction site of the futur hospital of Access. This hospital is supposed to serve the whole region for at least the next twenty five years they hope. Some of the building material has already arrived and the construction will soon start. Another project that is supposed to be finished in the next two years.

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And now a last picture of the area where we can see the ends of both streets that we visited today, Racsan and Gibson Street. We see that the garbage site is close to the discharge river from the dam, probably soaking the ground with all kinds of pollution. Although not very easily seen, the garbage dump delivers a smell to the air which travels with the wind, and sometimes can be slightly recognized in the residential zones east of it. Close to the dumpsite is a round field irrigated automatically, the first in Simland, something which is very new and revolutionary to Simland. Maybe a new way to cultivate.

pic62.18

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To end todays update some news from the Gabber Park near the townhall. The construction of the new Sportshall has started and the building will be named after John Gabber, who donated the lots to the town in the earlier years of its existance. It will be called the *Gabber Park Center*. It will be a sportshall, a place to present shows or other gathering events. It also holds a small inside pool, tenniscourt and arena. There will be a large parking where the two houses were torn down, enough to park the many vehicules once a reunion or show takes place.
Another news that was heard is that Kohler Buslines seeks a new terrain to park his busses, and so he can enlargen his business and supply the growing town with better transportantional services. Tom Kohler also thinks about a busline or shuttle between downtown and the airport, something that the Mayor asked him to manage and figure out how to organize. The airport should be ready by the end of the next year.

pic62.19

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That was it again, sorry for being a little late with my update, but I found my former CJ *Nexis of Genesis* on Simtropolis after a long time and started reading it all over again.....oh, that nostalgy.....lol. I hopefully be back during the next weekend or shortly after with some different news from all over the region, including an update of the army and some of our characters and hey, I heard that........that Johnny B Bad moved into a luxurious appartment downtown Access....Hm....how did he achieve this? And what about Alex Puto, he hardly is home anymore, what is taken him away?
Thanks in advance to those who comment and those who lurk, they add a lot of views to my thread... ;)

Have a nice week

Fred

Bonus:

Mayor Steven Bartlett left for the Capitol City, Lakefield, this morning to assit the funeral of the former Governor J.D. Lord, the man who made it possible for the highway 35 to connect Bluebay and Beecherfalls and open the doors for the settling of the Winding River Region. Mr Lord died at the age of 81 years at his home in Bremford, close to Lakfield.

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Bartlett is also the first mayor from the Winding River Region to be invited for an official Region Meeting after the funeral, which is held every 8 years or so. Discussions of evolution, contacts between the regions and little to big ideas of regional improvements are held during one full day, bringing all nine regions together. Proud to be part of this as the first of his region, he surely showed it on his face when he came back, telling Charles M.Johnson, the journalist of the Access Center Tribune,who was doing the interview,  that he had tremendous news to announce next week in the monthly town meeting. Nothing more was said.

««" What does he mean by *tremendous news*, you think, Charles?", the owner of the Tribune Joe Bean asked.
" I have no idea but he also said that his news will change the town for the next five years at least and that he was able to achieve something big for the municipality," slightly jerking his shoulders Charles answered.
"I know, no....." a brief moment in Charles speech," I heard that the council was about to ask for big funds from the federal Government to help the town meet its needs in public services before it ruins itself, but that's only rumours so far. Maybe they asked. It is Misses Bernstein from the Post-office who told me that. Let's not forget that she is councelor's Higgins sister, so there might be some truth in it. As we know, Higgins is Bartlett's right hand", looking at Bean as if he asking him for his comment.
"You know that could be." Joe lifted his right hand and stroke through his thin hair that still was left on his head,"I'm almost sure that Bartlett got it, if he is happy like this and said that his news will be *tremendous*, then this must be it.- Ok Charles, I want you to be on this as much as you can, I want to know before he makes the announcements, ya hear, Be all E A R S, you got that?", and he left the room to join the printing group in the backroom.
Now it was Charles turn to go through his hair and figuring out how he is going to do this, and then he got this idea. "Ha, Ristead MacGormain, the father of Billy Gabber's best friend Diarmuid, is a good friend of Bartlett, he must know something for sure", he said to himself while putting on his hat, taking his coat and leaving to 813 Mainstreet W, where the MacGormains live.»»

;) see ya soon........



Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on December 02, 2010, 04:21:23 AM
Wow, very nice update!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on December 02, 2010, 08:51:22 AM
I second that! It took me a while to read through the update, and I must admit I got totally lost in the world of Access. It was great seeing all the detail you put in each street.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on December 02, 2010, 09:07:47 AM
Very interesting update!  Quite a fascinating insight into the layout of this city!  You put a huge amount of thought and detail into your towns.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: scott1964 on December 02, 2010, 03:53:35 PM
Nice update. I want this, this, this,......,and this in my cities.  :o $%Grinno$%
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on December 02, 2010, 05:54:32 PM
Another great update!  What I love best about this is the details... but it's more than just the details, it's how your cities change with the years... and how you show the changes!  I love the original, then the construction (and the suspense about what will show up there!) then the outcome! 

I can't wait to see what the hospital and park and everything else turns out!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on December 02, 2010, 07:43:15 PM
Cool updates Fred! It's nice to get a close look at Access and see what the major streets look like.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 02, 2010, 10:37:47 PM
Hey guys, thanks so much for the comments. This is quite appreciated and also helps me "thinking out" what to come up with next.

Cyclone1001, Steve Gibson will be in the next update, talking with Gabber and Allheimer again about the armybase. Also the airport commity has asked for him. Hm?

nedalezz, Johnny B.Badd is about to change his lifestyle and has changed his appartment. A lot going with him, he's never been busy like this before.

Battlecat, Thanks, details are important for me and it makes the difference, I think.

scott1964, ok, let's hear it........what do you want in your cities, maybe I can help.

CabraBuitre, hope you liked the way it's going with the Westwood twins.


MattyFo, glad you liked the visit of the major streets in Access. Harry Wormwood is about to change places, he needs more room and I heard he is a acquaintance of Johnny B.Badd now. Hm.....where did they meet and how?

All that and much more coming up in the next update.
I have started BATting again and some of the older BATs, some of them already seen, are about to be ready to upload. I will show those BATs in this thread soon, between the updates. I need some advice and opinion before I upload them and in my BAT-thread I get very few or no responses. I suppose with all the visits I get in this CJ, I might be able to get the needed info also.


See you soon ;)

Fred


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on December 03, 2010, 01:51:22 AM
i can never remember where your bat thread is ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on December 03, 2010, 04:38:27 AM
QuoteJohnny B.Badd is about to change his lifestyle

A name change perhaps ?? 

Go go
Go Johnny go
Go
Go Johnny go
Go
Johnny B. Goode
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 03, 2010, 05:38:00 AM
Quote from: mightygoose on December 03, 2010, 01:51:22 AM
i can never remember where your bat thread is ;D

lol....that is why I will present my BATs here now, if I need an opinion.

Quote from: jmyers2043 on December 03, 2010, 04:38:27 AM
A name change perhaps ?? 
Go go
Go Johnny go
Go
Go Johnny go
Go
Johnny B. Goode


another lol.....lol....don't think so though.lol

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: scott1964 on December 03, 2010, 01:33:02 PM

Quotescott1964, ok, let's hear it........what do you want in your cities, maybe I can help.
I have been looking for constructions lots for quite awhile. and you electrical stuff by the dam looks nice too.  :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on December 03, 2010, 05:51:05 PM
Yeah I am honored to have a street named after me :P
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 03, 2010, 11:31:50 PM
Quote from: scott1964 on December 03, 2010, 01:33:02 PM
I have been looking for constructions lots for quite awhile. and you electrical stuff by the dam looks nice too.  :)

....sent you a PM.... ;)


EDIT:  Btw, should I maybe write a tutorial once in awhile here on how I do certain things with SC4? I mean like the construction sites, electrical sites as Scott1964 mentioned, forest and lakes, farms, terraforming etc....Let me know, I might do that. ;)
I once started something like this on ST and then those ****** banned me for a month, so to heck with them, right. It was called *57 Regions*, that's how many regions I have, all different. I had somewhat good comeback from it, but.....
anyways, I can always through one in here and help you to create the same.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 04, 2010, 03:43:33 PM
Ok, like I said somewhere above or on the page before, I will be showing some new Nexis BATs here for you to download and get some feedback and comments since my BATthread is somehow hidden, it seems...;) and comments are seldom or nonexistent

Here is a model that I will upload soon and it is supposed to become a Waterpumping Station. You probably have already seen it if you're a reader of my MD. I will need two or three of you, who will be willing to test it ingame once its finished, but for the moment I would like to hear from you, because I need to know:

- whether there is something to add or delete on the model in gmax, (could be anything, larger buildings, more details, add a bldg etc)
- change textures (maybe there are texs better for this than I applied)
- or resize etc.

Also I liked to hear about the water quantity it should deliver etc, you know.....those Stats.

Thanks in advance, anything positive or negative is welcomed, I have no problems with comments as long as they are real and facts.

Fred

Rendered pictures in gmax...

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg403.imageshack.us%2Fimg403%2F5628%2Fwaterpump22.jpg&hash=23e9e43163f4b1fe72966b87a2a1b51a1da0614e)

...from different views...

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg46.imageshack.us%2Fimg46%2F5940%2Fwaterpump23.jpg&hash=598bb20eb8b43007405dd33a1dc968ce7ca6eea6)

...and some pictures ingame on a quick lot that I generated.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg822.imageshack.us%2Fimg822%2F4486%2Fwaterpump24.jpg&hash=5b1a58b697bc382b8069c843babfc7ae575d9b30)

...your opinion counts and don't forget, you will be downloading and playing it. &Thk/(

EDIT: Of course, the military trucks will be removed and replaced by some other things from the LE, mostly Maxis props. These were only added to fit with the story of my MD. ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: scott1964 on December 04, 2010, 05:01:14 PM
That looks awesome.  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on December 05, 2010, 02:50:53 PM
the last picture has some major shadow issues....
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on December 05, 2010, 04:01:15 PM
QuoteAlso I liked to hear about the water quantity it should deliver etc, you know.....those Stats.


Hey Fred

Use the XTool. It should give you the correct stats. I used it for the aquafer water towers I did.

I like your water buidling. it has a nice design. I will use it in my cities for sure. The air vents on the roof could be less white but that's a quibble. Maybe something along this color if you're open to suggestions ...

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hvacmechanicalsystems.com%2Fimages%2FRheem_AC_energy_star.jpg&hash=025994abd999c762bd19decbf191afaafa56f1d2)

- Jim


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 05, 2010, 10:07:14 PM
Quote from: mightygoose on December 05, 2010, 02:50:53 PM
the last picture has some major shadow issues....

wow, I didn't even see that, i will have a look at that. Anyways, this is only a prerender with a lower quality of rendering, maybe the shadow issue will disappear when rendering in full quality. Hope so, because otherwise I don't really know what to do do about this.

Quote from: jmyers2043 on December 05, 2010, 04:01:15 PM
Hey Fred

Use the XTool. It should give you the correct stats. I used it for the aquafer water towers I did.

I like your water buidling. it has a nice design. I will use it in my cities for sure. The air vents on the roof could be less white but that's a quibble. Maybe something along this color if you're open to suggestions ...

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.hvacmechanicalsystems.com%2Fimages%2FRheem_AC_energy_star.jpg&hash=025994abd999c762bd19decbf191afaafa56f1d2)

- Jim

XTool, what's this? lol, never heard of it. The only program tool that I know a bit to work with is the Ilive Reader 093 and the Maxis LE, that's about it, and also the only tools I have installed besides the PIM. I have a lot of problems understanding these tools.
Open for suggestions?...Hey, you bet, I am always open for suggestions and comments, everyone should this by now.
That greenish colour of these airvents may look good on my building, have to try that with the next rendering. True that they are a little too white, I supposed they painted it freshly when I wasn't looking....;)

I will be back with an update (big one this time) very shortly, maybe tomorrow or the day after. I got the pictures, the story is written, all I need to do is to verify the text again, not to leave it with too many mistakes.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on December 06, 2010, 10:27:19 AM
I love the new pumping station. That looks so much more realistic than the ones from Maxis. I'm not sure how much of a capacity it would have, but it seems like it would be pretty high.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on December 06, 2010, 02:18:29 PM
QuoteHope so, because otherwise I don't really know what to do do about this.

A prop will position itself according to average terrain. That is why buildings as props will dig into the side of a hill and hover above ground on the other side.

A 'real' building like this water building will anchor itself to a terrain high spot. What I think has happened is the foundation parameter in the buildings exemplar has been changed or removed. Removing the foundation from the exemplar is a trick some folk use to get rid of the ugly brown maxis box foundation. But it can cause the building to hover above ground and cast the shadow seen here.

If i am correct? Then you have two choices.

1. Adjust the lot foundation (not building foundation) to something like ... slope before lot foundation = 0.

2. The other choice you have is to model a foundation for your (basically diagonal) building. Square buildings are easy ... buildings with diagonal walls are possible but require planning. I know, I've done a few diagonal barn buildings with foundations.

I did a short tutorial if you want to go down that road.

http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=536.msg294366#msg294366 (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=536.msg294366#msg294366)

Good Luck.

- Jim




Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: vester on December 06, 2010, 02:38:43 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on December 05, 2010, 10:07:14 PM
XTool, what's this? lol, never heard of it. The only program tool that I know a bit to work with is the Ilive Reader 093 and the Maxis LE, that's about it, and also the only tools I have installed besides the PIM.

Well it was call X-Tool, it is uploaded as SC4 PIM (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=2260).
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 06, 2010, 06:14:21 PM
Quote from: jmyers2043 on December 06, 2010, 02:18:29 PM

http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=536.msg294366#msg294366 (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=536.msg294366#msg294366)

Good Luck.

- Jim

Thanks Jim, I will surely take care of it as you said. That tutorial might come in very handy too. ;)

Quote from: vester on December 06, 2010, 02:38:43 PM
Well it was call X-Tool, it is uploaded as SC4 PIM (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=2260).

Ok, the SC4PIM..... then I have it....lol. Thanks vester!


--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Update 63



                                 Friday, August 12th, 1966
                          Today at this date... then:

                                               -  1281 – The Mongolian fleet of Kublai Khan is
                                                   destroyed
                                                   by a typhoon while approaching Japan.
                                               -  1833 – Chicago is founded.
                                               -  1964 – South Africa is banned from the Olympic
                                                  Games
                                                  due to the country's racist policies.
                                               -  1939 – George Hamilton, American actor was
                                                   born.
                                               -  1982 – Henry Fonda, American actor (b. 1905)
                                                   died


««" Ok, let's hear it, I can see it on your face, what have you been up to again?"»», John Gabber said when Mike Allheimer entered Barby's Biergarten on this friday afternoon with a big smile on his face and sat down in front of John.
A small group of friends gather here every friday afternoon at around 4 PM (16:00hrs) since three years already. Members of this group are John Gabber, Mike Allheimer, Alex Puto, Ts Slye, Henry Gabber (John's father) once in awhile, Steve Gibson, the pilot and since a few months also Charles M. Johnson, the journalist and Tom Kohler, who owns Access Busline. Today only three were present, John, Mike and Steve. Everyone else had something else to do today.
««" Have you seen Alex lately?", Mike asked John and Steve with a concerning face, since he hasn't seen him for more than a month now.
Steve answered, " He is with his new girlfriend all the time lately"
Mike all surprized, "He has a girlfriend? Since when?"
"It must be two months now I think," John said, "her name is Katie Panaski or Panaki or something. I've told you before, didn't I? They met a couple years ago in Frampton, he must have told you that too, and she moved into Phlox on the island lately, buying the small old harbour there that we built for the bridge construction back in '62."
"Wow, I didn't know, that surely explains why he's so busy, even when the highway project is still on hold. Oh," Mike continued with curiosity, " I received good news on Wednesday, the federals seem to have decided where to run the highway, and they will send over a couple of engineers and architects in a day or two to inform us, Oh man, let me tell you, that's about time, 'cause I am sick and tired of waiting for those Goverment Ties."
"Nice," John said, "how come I havent been informed yet? I thought I was the boss around here, ain't I?"
"Heck no," Mike respectivly mentioned with a big smile," I am the boss, remember? I am the Project Manager of the highway and Alex of the bridges, you're just the one who cashes in the check." John is used to Mike's sarcasm, ever since the last war they both survived.
"Anyways, send me a copy when the new report arrives," John said with his serious looking smile, "so that's what showed in your face when you came in."
"No John," Mike continued while Steve came a little closer to the conversation of the two, " I have had a lot of free time these days, you know, and with our workers on vacation and the loggers still busy with the new airport, I went to Lakefield yesterday, fooling around a little in the Main library and I studied the legend of the skullpeople."
"Oh sh**, here we go again," John interupted right there," you're still on that damn subject with the army. Geez, they're here since two years now, you should have gotten used to them by now."
Steve was curious though and started asking, Mike turned to Gibson, "I learned a lot about these people from the past in the library, although it was supposed to be only a legend until they found the village, it is still quite interesting what it says in those old papers. Did you know that they were supposed to have been implanted here by someone else and not accidently came from up northern europe? There's no legend there anyways that they ever existed in Europe and......."
"Ok, that's enough, "John interupted, " we should just accept the facts of the army's explanation and stay out of trouble, I can just hear you opening that freaking bag of yours and start trouble again, don't you think so too?" and he looked at Steve waiting for an answer.
"Sorry John, I'm not with you this time," Steve said, "I thought it over too and came to the conclusion that there's something fishy with the army and the place they have chosen."
"Oh boy" John couldn't help to show his deception of the two and told them that he's going to the bar and get drunk while shaking his head in disappointment of the two.»»
Mike and Steve looked at each other, both wondering what John really tried to say when he stood up mumbled and left to the bar, and Mike continued telling what he found out in that library with every detail. Half an hour later John's father arrived at the bar and asked where the others are, after Henry found out, he left and headed for the table near the windows to go see the others. He sat down and started to listen into the conversation. John saw this from the distance and didn't believe his eyes. He shook his head again, ordered another drink and continued the conversation with the bartender, whatever they were talking about.
So did the friday afternoon end and slowly one by one of the four friends left for home. Henry and John were the last.
««" You know Johnny boy," Henry said while getting ready to leave also, "you should listen in what Mike has to say about those *skullers* (as he calls them), it makes a lot of sense and surely is something worth to think about why the army is there in West River."
"Oh Dad, don't tell me he got you too?"
"Well maybe, but listening doesn't hurt, son, especially when it makes sense like this.", and he left calmly with the winking of his left eye. * Oh btw...." Henry stopped just before opening the door to leave the pub, " Mother asked me if you have forgotten our address, she hasn't seen you in 2 weeks it seems."»»

John left the bar also and lit himself a cigarette on the MainStreet/ Access Road corner just outside Barby's while looking at the regular weekend train heading north towards West River. The train had a lot of immense boxes on it, containers and even some machinery, some of them were labeled with the army's logo. John started thinking about it and what if Mike's nonsense would make sense after all, he thought.
When the train was passed, he went to the rear of the building to get his car and then to Grasslake, where his family already arrived from Bluebay at their weekend home as every friday afternoon during the summermonths. He hoped that his mom was there too, saving him a trip to Bluebay this weekend.

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While we are still in Access Downtown, I would like to show you where Johnny B Bad has moved to. He has been very busy in the last year and also has established his paying buissness in town. About 5 months ago he hired 2 guys that help him out with putting the Weed on the market and streets, while he himself has a plantation near "Grass"lake (what a name coincidence) to take care of with friends. Smart fellow, this way he's staying out of trouble and making twice the money. Because buissness is good, he now has to worry to spend his money wisely and not to make any dust and draw people's attention. Moving into an appartment like this looks suspicious when you don't have a job, but Johnny now started his own buissness, a Cleaner's store. His appartment is one the finer ones in Access Center downtown, overlooking the residential eastpart of the town. Funny is that it is close to the Police station, what a nerve Badd has. Passing by the law every morning in a somewhat older pick-up that he just bought from Wormwood Motors on Access Road, he goes to work every morning at 9, putting on a big smile when he passes the Police office with big windows on the streetside.

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Once arrived at his store on Aberdeen St, just close to the shopping Mall, Johnny usually opens his Cleaner store and waits for two younger women he hired also to take care of the store. Then he leaves again only to take some backroads, not to pass by the Policestation again, and travels east towards Grasslake on the Access Road, where one of his friends owns a small farm near the Winding River. It is a 35 minute drive only.
We know that Badd's store is only a cover up, most likely also to launder money and make sure that it looks like Johnny's been working hard and on to a right track. His sytem and idea seems to work, the police has stopped watching him closely last winter and some regular citizens seem to start to believe also that he is finally changing and getting off the streets. Even his regular street customers can't get over it, believing that he stopped dealing. Now they deal with another person, of course the ones that Johnny hired.
But little Badd has well worked out his plan, having thought it out for the last 6 months and it is finally working in favour for him.

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His friend Osborne in Grasslake owns a few acres of land (within the green lines) trying to make a living with farming, maybe a little lazy to work on the farm, he and his brother started to plant some marihuana in the back of their forest close to the Winding River. A nice place to hide a field of money. Both brothers were the ones who supplied Johnny with the goods before. When Johnny decided to get off the streets and have someone else do it for him, he invested with his two friends in some clearing of the land and planting a "Field of Dreams" as he calls this little paradise of his.
Not far from there is an old barn that's just perfect for the harvesting, trimming and drying of the product, they also pack it here and all Johnny has to do is to deliver it to his two "salesmen" in downtown.

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A closer looks reveils the barn, the private road and the field surrounded by dense forest. Here Johnny comes almost everyday whether to check, pack, dry or cut his green treasure. He also takes care of the plantation with his two co-helpers, which we can see on the secon picture below, where they are trimming the plants to grow into thicker weed that offers more budquantity. This is quite big now for the first time and somewhat they are a little worried about being discovered....., but as Johnny puts it, as long as no one else knows , they will be ok.

(Oh boy, I hope I got all that right, had to do some research on this subject ...lol)

Later in the day Johnny returns to town, closes up his store and drives very slowly in his baby-blue old pickup by the Police office, from where they could see everyone passing. It just looks normal.

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Now, Johnny bought his pick-up from Wormwood Motors on the Access Rd north and having talked to Harry Wormwood himself, he found out that Harry has somewhat some financial problems and wants to enlargen his sales but has no idea how. Jokingly Johnny B.Badd mentioned that he has a good buddy in Reverant City, where he is from, that can maybe become Wormwood's solution, selling some newer "hot" cars coming from the Capitol and outside the country.
That didn't go into a deaf ear and a day later Harry got back into contact with Johnny, paying him a beer at Barby's. Wormwood eager to make a better life, told his whole situation to Johnny. Although Badd is not a specialist in this domain, he offered his help in exchange for a little percentage on the deals. They agreed and off they went to Reverant City for the day where Harry met Gillis, the man behind the biggest organization of stolen, no, let's say "borrowed" cars in Simland.
Because Wormwood  needs more space soon to come, Johnny also offered a terrain that he is willing to rent for a good price. Yes, Johnny has benn active and invested some money in buying a terrain that will soon be vacant, because the piping and wiring company is about to move to Phlox. As I mentioned before, Johnny was busy making a lot of money lately and he had to invest it somewhere. Here he started a company in  a different name than his and with an address in Beecherfalls, and bought the terrain that came on sale the same day near his Cleaner's store on Aberdeen St. (just in between the Shopping Mall and the street that leads to Sandom, former highway 35 in town)
Wormwood agreed under the condition to give him a few months to pay the rent....no problem, Johnny answered and both went back to their own buissness.

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Another one who soon needs another terrain is Tom Kohler, the owner of the Kohler Buslines. His place near the Access Rd and Mainstreet intersection is getting very crowded and instead of tearing down his 24hr Convenience store and the Gasbar in front of his Busyard, he decided to find a bigger and better spot to build his Garages to keep his 9 busses that he now owns. At the age of 28 years now, he is aiming high, starting to like his neat income in the last two years. He hasn't been running his taxi, nor his busses since last fall, having found a reliable manager for his two companies in Access. His girlfriend Jessica Parker from Beecherfalls just moved in with him here in Access, they both rented a nice appartment in those Greek State buildings on the Gibson St that we visited on the last update. Kohler wants to get married before the year is over and then it's time to take care of buissness and get a family started.

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Kohler has 3 choices of terrains on which he will be building his new Garages and Main-office. Below is the first choice, just behind the last homes within the townlimits of Access on the southern end. The terrain is big enough for his needs, well situated and close to the highway with quick access. Also it is just on the other side of road of the new Soccerterrain that was built two years ago, when they needed a bigger terrain for the parking and spectators.

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The second one is right in downtown, further acces to the highway of course, but close to his gasbar and the smaller garage. His girlfriend Jessica prefers this one, which is closer to the center of town and also just in front of the new Sportshall that will soon be constructed. If he builds here, they will be closer together. Tom is more likely to buy the other place because it is very close to the highway and being now a regional public transport company, he needs the fast access to the highway.
This place below though is close enough to his other places. People still living here will be moved to the other side of town. The terrain still belongs to the town since 1956 when the Administration office in the Capitol City supplied the town with land to build on their town. Now the town has decided to sell these lots for commercial use only, which of course Kohler is about to decide on  Besides just a little further behind these streets, Kohler has a small terrain, big enough to build a 2-story home one day, close to downtown and almost quiet as the suburbs.
The third lot is way out of town and close to the museum of Access-Valmore up north and too far from his other buissnesses, therefore a probability not to be chosen.

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Now, we have 6 more places to visit in Access and 1 in Bluebay before we switch over to some of changes in the Phlox County, which still is not considered as a town or municipality. First let's see where the Mayor spent his last four days at the expense of his fellow citizens. Steven Bartlett had no other choice to do something about the used water fact in Access Center before the matter gets too hot. He went to Bluebay for a few days to learn more how to, why and who to hire to get a good sewerage and water treatment plant. His ideas are fix and a budget of 2.2 Million § has been considered for the complete piping system and the plant outside of town. This will be the biggest project since the construction of the Fingerlake dam. Many people will be involdved in this project, such as Jerry Meaden, the father of our Jordan Meaden, who is studying cartography at the moment and about to finish his studies. Jordan will help his father who is a GIS Specialist where to plan the piping system of Access Center and Access-Valmore. There is also the father of Diarmuid MacGormain, best friend of Charlie Gabber, who will be the responsable for the construction expenses and costs of this project as a quantity surveyor and finally Gary Gabber, brother of John Gabber and President of the construction part of Gabber's Ltd, who will have John's oldest son, John Jr, lead the construction job of the plant and the underdigging of the pipe system all over the town.

This will be long though, Steven Bartlett figures about 3 to 4 years before everything of the town will be covered. He knows it should have been done before, but because of financial matters it was impossible to do so at the times. Now or never, he said as the councils made change Bartlett's mind to build the sanitational system first before the firedepartment, the construction of the library, courthouse and Passenger trainstation that were planned for the next two years and which were put on hold until the finances of the town will allow it.
The visit to Bluebay's plant was quiet educational and instructional for both Bartlett and his town, which now contains almost 60,000 citizens together with Valmore.

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The other five places to visit in Access are for one the dezoning of the hillforests south of the town of Access Center. Here is the first exit to the town of highway 35 coming in from Bluebay and Sandom. Close to the fingerlake that supplies the town with water and electricity makes this part of town an excellent site to open up for residential living with slightly higher taxes and of course for those you can efford it. The town decided to do so in the next year. For this year only a nice and freshly asphalted road was built to give access to the area. Now it is Riichirou Takahaschi's job again to get things planned out how to make this a nice and beautiful neighborhood. Riichirou just about finished the surburban plans for Phlox, where he worked for the last 2 years. No time for him this year to go to Japan and see his family again.

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Another residential project is to be taken care of next year is one of the last agricultural fields that will fall into the hands of hungry residents. The plans were already partially made by Riichirou Takahaschi and the streets should be started right after the harvesting of the sunflowers. Lots for 25 residential homes will soon change place with the flowers. Most of the terrains have been sold already.

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More and more complaints from the southern citizens of Access have been filed because of the dustry gravel streets they still are living with. These conditions are inacceptable, they say. "We are in 1966, where civilization is the most advanced yet and still they have to swallow the dusty air and clean their windows and cars every week. Situated just behind the soccerfield, this part of town is seldom visited by outsiders, but now with the complaints of the residing citizens, the council has to act fast and cover these "trails" with asphalt to become streets before they put this part of town on the map. Another expense for the town. Mayor Bartlett wants absolutely to be re-elected next year (1967) that he will allow this expense by cutting down on something else which he hasn't figured out yet.

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I wanted you to show what Downtown Access Center looks like in August 1966. Here everything has changed since the last five years and only the old church, the Bake n' Sale store of Wellington and maybe two or three other homes are still part of this area. This is definitivly not a place to be during Rush Hour.

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Another part of downtown which is rapidly changing is the east part of town. The construction of some new commerces yet to come and the Sportshall on top of Gabber Park will surely change the face of the surroundings of the townhall. Besides this, Kohler Busline will probably leave the area, Wormwood will soon move too and the residents of 34 Balt St will also seize away for commercial developments soon. " Nothing is as before", an older citizen that lives here since 1956 said to Charles M. Johnson, who is the journalist of the Access Tribune, " I used to go to the Olsen Pub for a coffee every morning and feed the horses just in front of it, today there are two towers and a freaking big highschool.". Charles is about to make a full 2 pages article in the Tribune about the invading and imposing changes of Access Center in the last 5 years. If it is positive or negative, we will surely find out in the years to come. (people can't wait to see and use the new Sportshall)

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And to end our long visit to Access, we have a full look at the former airport, which was rebought by Guy Racsan and transformed into buildable industrial lots. Guy is about to make a lot of money here with reselling the lots of the airport area to industrial companies. Some of them have already been sold, one of them is the Pepsi Cola Company from the US which will have a bottling unit right here next year and give more than 150 people a fulltime job. Hiring them has already started.
Racsan Jet Engines and Motor Company have been thriving lately also. Guy is keeping a large part of the airport area to build his carcompany that he absolutely wants to create. The RMC (Racsan Motor Company) will soon be officially formed and start building its factory by the end of next year. Ford Mustang has made its spectacular entry into the automobile market this year and it will be Racsan Motor's turn in two years, Guy believes. But before that happens, Guy will marry his new girlfriend Kathlyn Whitt early this fall and both will build themselves a dream home on the other side of the Fingerlake, where most of the richest families have already reserved some terrains for their new homes. Guy bought a piece of land that his girlfriend fell in love with the first time the road around the lake opened. The size is tremendous and large enough not to see any neighbors , but the price was also tremendous, earning a lot of § to the town. (we get to that in the next update).
While KECO (Kent Engineering Company) will stay in the Access industrial Park along with RMC (Racsan Motor Company), the Kent-Triton Jet Engine Company will move to near the new airport by the Winding River part of Access.
His father, Tony Racsan now 66 years old, is about to transfer KECO and Kent-Triton to his only son Guy. Tony still lives on Grasslake in his wonderful big mansion and takes more care of his project of creating the best wine in the region. He has built his Vignoble (vineyard) office and transformation building in the last three years and now he is ready to harvest his first grapes that he planted some 8 years ago. No one knew about this project ever since it started back in 1958 when Tony bought a very big part of the Grasslake county and started clearing land in the hills. We didn't know why then, but by the end of last month Tony himself announced it while leaving his presidency to his son Guy this winter and that he will live for his passion of fine wines now.
We will visit this with the next update also.

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Now let's jump over Valmore and West River and visit the Phlox county, where Takahaschi has lately finished the neighborhood planning and hundreds of new residents are moving in every week. Phlox is still under Lakefield's jurisdiction, since it is not considered as a municipality yet. But this can change any week now as Phlox is rapidly growing and demanding a mayorship and an independant administration.

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Here is where Highway 35 continues northeast towards Frampton and Beecherfalls and highway 15 attaches itself to part towards the Capitol City of Lakestead, just on the other side of the mountain chain in the west. A lot of money was invested here by the Lakestead administration office. Parks have been built to beautify and draw in new citizens and even the old warplane of Robert Sweathers that crashed in the Stoke swamps many years ago was recuperated, rebuilt and painted and has become the center piece of the highway intersection. We all remember Sweathers when he was found as a longtime survivor of the dense forests some years ago and that he was granted with a lot of land so he can grow his vegetables in West River. Mr Sweathers is 60 years old today and his health is rapidly declining since a few months without exactly knowing what causes it. Doctors think it's a sort of a cancer. He has stopped gardening this year, telling us that he wants to take a break, but we all know that its not the cause.
A small concentration of commercial stores have accumulated south of the intersection supplying the area with the essentials. For bigger shopping they will have to go to Access Center who is willingly to supply anything to Phlox County.

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A small village is about to form evidently it seems, but the county is still governed by the Capitol City. Phlox County is more or less divided into two halves, one west part and the eastpart that we will visit with the next update. This is the westpart of Phlox, and the eastpart has the mighty bridge over the Winding River and Slye's sawmill and is less than half a km from here, taking only 2 minutes by the highway to get there. People from both sides consider themselves as one village though, most of them in the east working at the sawmill and the "westerners" come to church and buy the necessary in the east. Some folks here don't believe that this will ever become a real town one day and of these some think it will become a part of Access one day and others think it will stay under the administration of Lakefield forever and only bear the name of a County.

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The suburbs that were carefully planned by Riichirou Takahaschi are litterally being invaded by construction sites everywhere you look. Lakefield Administration wanted it to become a desirable place to live since it is only a 1 hour ride by Highway 15 away from the Capitol and maybe accomodate a lot folks to live here and and still work in the big City. Taxes are paid to Lakefield......get the idea?
Anyway, it is rapidly growing and somehow most citizens that moved here found another and better paying job in this region, whether in Phlox itself or in Access Center, only fifteen minutes from here. The future of Phlox is uncertain.

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In Stoke the highway 35 construction finally is moving on, the administration office in Lakestead finally decided which way to run the line. After dozens of expensive terrainstudies, it was decided that the highway should follow the downriver, cross over the Ganoga marshlands with two small bridges over the big Ganoga Island and stay on the Kingscroft side of the river to attach itself to Highway 76 towards Beecherfalls north of here, instead of crossing the large river here with an enormous and costly bridge again and not gaining much of a distance. It took the office 4 weeks to decide, when most loggers and highway workers were not working. John Gabber lost a few thousand of § with his, which is shortly applied for to regain from the government as a unexpected expense caused by the administration office.

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A closer look gives us an idea of the site's surroundings and preparation for the guys with the asphalt that wait only a few miles back. Let's not forget that Gabber Ltd hires directly or indirectly more than 1500 workers by now, starting from the highly placed managers to the little fellows that tidys up after the workers. You should see the immensity of paperwork being performed for each week's payday at the Gabber Ltd's office in Frampton. Building a highway for sixty miles (approx 95 km) through the most untouched and raw nature in Simland on all kinds of terrains is a 15 year project with a tremendous  amount of organizing and directing hundreds and hundreds of people around. Stressfull it is indeed for most of the directors and managers. It is John Gabber who has undertaken this project in 1956, which will be 10 years in one month.

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Now, that was another big update again, something to keep you busy for awhile. Let's hope for some comments and remember to leave some comment on the waterrpump model above, so I can modify (if necessary) and prepare it to be uploaded.

Thanks for coming and have a nice week.

Fred ;)

Remember that you have access to a complete detailed large map of the region with the link below where you can always see the reference points. This map is updated every 5 simyears.

http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/2638/1965windingrivervalleyn.png
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: scott1964 on December 06, 2010, 08:26:53 PM
Awesome update.  :thumbsup: :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on December 06, 2010, 09:01:52 PM
Wow! Certainly a large update ;D The story is great, and I like what you're doing with transit, very realistic.

                    Your friend,
                                   Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on December 07, 2010, 03:25:52 PM
massive update full of goodness re reading now.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on December 08, 2010, 06:15:09 AM
Just as a point of realism: usually there are more trees over the top of a grow. Cops have long since learned that to hit a grow, a helicopter is one of the best tools out there, and they are very good at it. Which, as a guy from Northern California is a good thing. ;)

Access Center is getting big. Maybe too big. If Gregory Badger has survived this long, we may want to move him out to the boonies to get away from all the hustle and bustle, maybe get started on some land somewhere down that shiny new road.

Just a thought.

-FW
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on December 08, 2010, 12:00:15 PM
Sorry about not being here that often but the update looks fantastic! I do look forward to more!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 08, 2010, 02:29:46 PM
Hey Thanks guys, glad you liked it.

Quote from: frostwolf on December 08, 2010, 06:15:09 AM
Just as a point of realism: usually there are more trees over the top of a grow. Cops have long since learned that to hit a grow, a helicopter is one of the best tools out there, and they are very good at it.

Well frostwolf, you're most probably right on this.

Well, I don't know much about plantations like this, so I did a lot of research one evening, as a matter of fact, I have visited several forums and gathered information, just so I could create something realistic in my MD. Now, that there's more trees on a grow like this is true,a good cover-up for helicopters is a must nowadays, but......that's today and maybe since 15 years or so, the police flies regularily over forests to find these spots. All true or at least what I heard of and learned (imagine I am learning about marihuana plantations now....lol...never would have believed this a couple of weeks ago.) Hm....maybe I should start my own now....lol

Anyways, as I asked about these fields in a forum and what they looked like in the sixties, people told me that usually in very clean areas they were planted because the plant itself needs a lot sun to thrive, the more the better and tthe police did not yet have regular helicopter or plane operations at that time. They also mentioned that a lot of plants were seeded or planted in rows in between farmer's crops, such as corn which is just about ideal to hide the plants.

Since this is kinda hard to do in the game, I have chosen what you saw above, and I think for the sixties, which we are in this story, it doesn't look too bad.

Most probably when we get to the nineties and up, and still Johnny is around or someone else I will improve the plantations to look as realistic as possible.

So is it more or less what I heard and read about it?

As for Badger, he is already a little further away from the town, right now he is renting an old farm on Sterling Island in the Phlox County, remember?Btw, he will be in the second next update with some good news about his ambitions ;)



Let's see what I can come up with next now......hm

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 09, 2010, 07:14:19 PM

Ok, I did some fine-tuning on the waterpump station, giving it different textures each for the airvents, some greenish painted metal. I also added some more details like a power entry, one more pipe, changed numbers on walls, made a gridgate for the fan etc....
Since there are no windows, there's no need for nightlights, except a lamppost or two on the lot to light the exterior. Looking better?
Could it use something more or less?
All kinds of ideas are welcome, not meaning that I will except them all....;)

Fred


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Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on December 10, 2010, 01:15:20 AM
the pumping station looks crisper now, and i thought as much about the plantations.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: soulchaser on December 15, 2010, 08:42:38 AM
Coming across this MD once again.....great stuff, very inspiring.....

one word on the pump station: it's better now, but I'd see these colored roof parts (red green blue & yellow) less saturated, more greyish...looks less like a (extreme overstatement following!) candy shop then ;)

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 15, 2010, 04:43:49 PM
Quote from: soulchaser on December 15, 2010, 08:42:38 AM
Coming across this MD once again.....great stuff, very inspiring.....

one word on the pump station: it's better now, but I'd see these colored roof parts (red green blue & yellow) less saturated, more greyish...looks less like a (extreme overstatement following!) candy shop then ;)

lol......maybe you're right, I will change the blue ventilator to the same green as the others and the greenish round fan to more of a greylike colour, maybe like the the box where the 3 dark and red pipes enter on top of the roof. That should do the trick. Your comment was useful. ;)

Well here it is , the second last update before christmas. ;)

Update 64


                            Friday, September 2nd, 1966
                           Today at this date... then:
                                               
                                              -  1666 – The Great Fire of London breaks out and
                                                 burns for three days,
                                                 destroying 10,000 buildings including St Paul's
                                                 Cathedral.
                                              -  1859 – A solar super storm affects electrical
                                                  telegraph service.
                                              -  1945 – Vietnam declares its independence,
                                                 forming the Democratic
                                                 Republic of Vietnam.



The long summerdays are gone again for another 7 months. Highway 35 reached the Ganoga Marshlands and Alex Puto will be busy again building two bridges over the marshland's outlet. It will be easier to do so this time then the last time when the soil was very unstable in the Stoke swamps. John Gabber and his company's responsables are feeling better now, less stressed, although the highway was delayed for almost thirty days, last month, the job is back ontime again.

It was a beautiful day to fly, so John called up Steve Gibson, the bushpilot, in the morning and asked him for a ride over the West River area, including where he, his father and Allheimer have some lands they bought back in the fifties and of course if possible close to the West River area, where the army is. As Steve voluntarily accepted, both met at the grasslake small gravel airstrip where Gibson keeps his airplane since the airport in Access Center has been torn down.

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«" So how was the trip to the marshlands with these government officials last week", John asked while greeting Steve with a handshake on the gravel airstrip. " Do you know what they have been up to there?" Steve, preparing the plane for take-off, checking if everything's in order replied,
"Well, they have been there before , at least four times in the last month. I think they have found a possibility for an oilrig there, small quantities for the moment I heard them saying, but they're still looking if it is worth for some drilling."
" Don't tell me that they said that there is oil in our counties, wow, that would be great, perfect for the region's economy. Makes me think of buying some more land for my "old days", John said with a smile and climbed into the plane, attaching himself and looking sadly at the airplanes commands. " You know Steve", he continued," It has been almost 8 years that my Rusty Rover sank in the Valmore lake, sniff."
" What's a rusty Rover John?" Steve asked  all curious and settled himself into his seat also.
With a little laugh John replied, "Rusty Old Rover was my old hydroplane that I used to own back in the fifties, I went down during a storm trying to land on Valmore lake, but I strongly underestimated the waves and they took me by surprise when I landed. It drowned my plane to a depth of 120 feet, impossible to recover they said. I was lucky, it was only 200 feet to the shore and the water was warm."
"So it's true what I heard about it, the plane is still there?", Gibson asking all curiously.
" Oh yeah", John mumbled while attaching his seatbelts.
" Hey", Steve said all exited to have this idea and turns to John with big eyes," I know someone in Frampton who's brother had to stormland like this and his plane sunk also in deep waters last year, but they went to
get it right after. He's back flying it ever since."
"How deep was it, do you know?"
"Oooh, must have been something like 300 or even 350 feet deep, I think, because the Marble lake is very deep where he sank." Steve replied.
"What's this fellow's name, maybe I'll ask him if it possible to get mine out of the lake?" John couldn't help to ask, missing his plane so much. "I haven't bought another hydroplane since I bought my little jet to go to work, but hey, I would love to have my Rusty Rover back, no matter the costs. You know, I can't find ones like this anymore, unless I go to Russia, which is impossible with the cold war between the States and them. Even the Simlanders aren't welcomed there."
" The guy's name is Vito Scaletta, some guy from Italy or Sicily, he's into airplanes like me, but more like an Aviation Engineer architect. Besides I think he is moving to Access later this winter, being a close friend of Alex and having been offered a job at the new airport.  If you find him, just ask him about his brother's retrieval buissness."
"What?....Alex Puto, my bridge engineer?"
"Yes, Alex whatever his last name is." Steve said with a smile.
"Why did this son of gun never mention that he knows someone to recover my plane?" John looked ahead at the takeoff strip checking for the windflag.
"Probably because you never asked," Steve replied and started the engine with a smile.»»

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So they took off into the direction to West River, or at least where Steve is allowed to fly over because of the army's flight-over restrictions. But first they made a circle above the Grasslake village and Gabber's weekend home.

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After grasslake they took the direction of the mighty Winding River and then upstream towards the lands that Gabber and Allheimer bought more than 10 years ago, checking everything there. Things seem to be quiet there. Being not far the West River County, John asked if it was possible to get as close as possible to the army's base without getting shot down, and it wasn't too long that they were contacted and asked for identity and then asked to leave the area immediatly. Excusing himself and saying that his instruments weren't working properly, Steve took a sharp turn to the right, opposite as the army ordered and headed back to the Winding River while turning right over West River's army base center. This was naturally causing the army to be more agressive and authoritary and ordering him to bend off as fast as possible before they will take more serious actions to be understood....Steve put the plane into full gaz, heading straight out of there while excusing himself again, repeting that his instruments are telling him so wrong.
««"So, did you have time enough to get some good pictures?", Steve asked with a steaming forehead.
"You got it son," John said, "this was terrific, I have done a good dozen of excellent shots. Let's get out of here, we have done enough stirring up. Say, they have been busy down there it looks, they even got an airstrip as it seems ."

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"Yeah I know, Slye told me that he sees at least one trainload full of materials going there every week. Most of it is in big boxes." Gibson said knocking on his compass as if it wasn't working properly.
"I have seen a train like this 3 weeks ago, you know the last time when we met at Barby's, and it made me think if Mike isn't right after all," and John looked at  Steve still hitting the compass with his index and asking, "What's the matter, something's wrong?"
"I'm pretty sure that Mike is right or at least it is worth inspecting." Steve hit the compass with his fist," Dam thing doesn't seem to work, funny....lol....that's what I just said to the army," looking up at John , as if asking for answer.
John started laughing and said jokingly, "There must be a UFO somewhere, those things happen when they're close, the instruments go crazy," and he similated to look for it in the horizons." Steve didn't say a word about his remark, except giving him a crooked smile for his sarcasm and totally unreal like remark.
"Could you make a detour to Ganoga outlet see where they are with the highway construction in the marshland's outlet? After we head home, I still got some things to do before the end of the afternoon and I won't have the time to drive there to see how they're doing. Are you coming to the meeting at Barby's later today?" John said while looking at the sparkling waters on the winding river below.
" Sure, no problem." Steve replied, I will be at Barby's later on also, only have one more trip to do in the early afternoon, bringing 3 guys to a hunting camp in Brokentree, after that I'll be off for the day, I think."»»

And so they headed to the marshlands and visited the construction site of the Highway.

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Arriving near the Ganoga Marshlands, John asked:
««" Could you pull down a little and circle twice over the construction site, so I can see what they have been doing this week."
"You must be getting tired of this project," Steve couldn't resist to take notice, "I mean you being on this for almost 10 years now, must be glad when this is over, hey?"
"Ten years, darn it," cried out John, "Geez, I almost forgot, tomorrow is the tenth anniversary party of the highway in Access. Will you come Steve?"
"Of course, I wouldn't miss getting drunk on a day like this", and he looked at Johns face to see his reaction. "Drunk?, hell you better not, there will be a lot of folks there, many important ones, make sure you don't make a fool out of you, like Mike always does, and John returned that look to Steve with a grin, knowing that Steve wouldn't get drunk in public like this. Then he continued, " Let's get closer now and have a look at the bridge they're building on the ganoga."»»
And Steve pulled down his controls for a deep plunge into the clouds of the Ganoga marshland.

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Steve noticed that the water was darker near the construction site and was told that it was because of the boulders and rocks being pushed into the river to serve as a n excellent foundation for the bridge's first "foot", as John calls the bases. The river's bed get stirred up and of course the water gets dirty. Then John realized that not one person seems to be around the site, although it is friday. All the machinery seemed to be parked
««"Oh my" mumbled John, " Try to get even closer, I think no one's on the site, darn it, where's everyone?" Steve so told, so it was done and it wasn't long they were almost hovering over the bridge's construction site. John continued to mention the absence of workers on the site.
"Damn it now, what's happening again? I'm gonna kill that Mike this time," he mumbled to himself, seemingly not understanding the situation. Then Steve looked at John while getting closer and almost seem to wanting to land .
"Hey John, having problems with Alzheimer disease?" Steve said looking at John with wide open eyes.
"What do you mean?" John all surprized and still looking around the site to find a living soul somewhere.
"Remember last friday you told Mike to end the week on thursday night because of the preparation of the party tomorrow?"
All relieved from the stress John was living at the moment, he relaxed and answered that with a smile and not so loud. "Ah, you're right......I forgot. Let's go back to Grasslake, I've gotta buy a bottle of wine for my wife tonight.", trying to change the subject quickly»»

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So Steve pulled up the plane so sudden that John couldn't resist to make a remark on that, but Gibson not even moving an eyebrow took the direction of Grasslake heading over the Stoke Mountains, the shortcut.
Back in Grasslake John thanked Steve for the ride and told him to send the bill to Gabber Inc. then he went to his favourite store all around in the village of Grasslake, the Co-op store on Kingstreet where they sell everything from socks to strawberries and drillbits, bought a couple of things, especially not fogetting his wife's wine and some new rubberboots to wear on the construction sites when it's wet. Gabber loves this store, it is so big and with its extension in the back that it holds more stuff of all kinds of things than the shopping mall in Access. Everytime he comes here he finds something new and interesting. At the counter there was a little ceramic church with a slot on top. He couldn't resist and ask the clerk what it was for. He was told that it was to finance to build a church in Grasslake. The location was already being worked on, just 2 houses further up the street. Being a believer , John pulled out his last 20 § bill from his pockets and slid it into the little church before leaving the store.

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Now we're going to do some cityhopping, I mean we will jump from one tile to another for the rest of the update. First let's have a look at the new zones for the residential suburbs that they are planning in Access. Just south of the Fingerlake and on top of the hills, some lots are being sold to Residents of Access and surroundings only. People like Wellington, Slye, Truex and Bartlett have bought some terrains here already.
We can also see clearly see the pollution of the used waters from town that are emptied into the little river just below the dam. And then there's that garbage lack of space problem again, which has been put aside for awhile now. Bartlett has ordered to cut as much of the forest that is in the town's posession to widen the disposal site. He says that this will keep the problem under control for a couple of years and give him time enough to find a real solution.

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Let's go to the Stoke mountains again where Sterling has build a road to the top of the mountain. Here some preparations are being made for a possible construction of something. Maybe he decided to go ahead with his castle project that he's been dreaming of for years. As we know, Rundi Sterling is a vivid collector and fanatic of european castles. Sofar he bought three of them from 3 different countries, had them torn down piece by piece, numbered every single stone and piece of the castle and have them shipped to Simland by sea. It is here on his huge terrain that he will reconstruct these oldies most probably for his own pleasure. Maybe this place is for the first castle that is waiting in pieces on the docks of Frampton.

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Then back to Access, where the tenth anniversary party of the highway has started. The site chosen was the construction site of the Gabber Park that has been transformed to accomodate several hundred of people. All the materials and machinery were tossed onto the side. The party is about the biggest one Access has ever seen, people like the whole Gabber family, including John's father Henry and brother Gary, the governor of Lakestead, the mayors from the surrounding towns and cities such as Sandom and Bluebay, many government officials, notaries and lawyers, buissness owners, highway workers and even the loggers that took part of the project in the last ten years. Three speeches will be held, one by John Gabber the responsable of the construction Company, Steve Bartlett, the mayor of Access and the Governor Herbert Wilkonson from Lakefield, the capitol. After there will be a baloon ride for some V.I.P's, a carousel for the kids and drinks of all kinds for everyone, food for the hungry and an orchestra will play later on in the evening right into the night or maybe morning. The streets were closed for the afternoon and evening, the police took care of that being just on the other side of the street (left).

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Not all the people didn't come here by car of course, because there's not enough room to park all those cars, but the organization party planned a busrun with Kohler buslines that offers a free ride from and back to their cars which are parked in a big field out of town. The temporary parking was created, with the farmer's permission of course, just outside the town near Highway 35. This will also prevent the town from blocking with traffic. The busses leave at 5 minute intervals, no waiting for our precious guests, they said.

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Coming along slowly and surley is the Access Airport with its construction. For now only the devastation and delogging of the forest has been active, but some bulldozers have already arrived and are working to level the terrains. It is a company from Bluebay, a competitor of Gabber Inc, who has been chosen for the construction of the airport. Gabber was offered to make an official estimation of the job, but refused, giving as excuse that he has not enough manpower left for this job, while most of his hired hands are working either to repave roads and streets somewhere in Simland and the rest is on the Winding River's highway project. Bluebay Building Enterprises (BBE) who got the job, has a breakthrough in favour for them, not being known as much as Gabber Inc at the moment. This job will surely put them on the map.
The airport is supposed to be functional by november 1967 they say, still a little over a year to go. It is true when they say in the town that this is the biggest project ever done in Access. Some Powerpylons have already been built, meaning soon the electricity will be available there.

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Since a lot of workers come from Bluebay, some temporary housings have been constructed to accomodate them. Workers will eat and sleep here for several months to come and only go back home every two weekends.
90 % of the timber cut in this area is shipped to the TS Slye Sawmill down in Phlox, filling up his yards. The lumber is good here, excellent quality and lots of it, just sufficient to keep Slye and his workers busy for some time. Since Slye signed a contract with the Donovan Enterprises, the wood cut and sawed will all go to Donovan's building supply extension in Access Center. Building material like this is in high demand in the region, constructions sites of all sorts, residential, commercial, industrial as others. The other 10% of the lumber goes to Lakefield, being picked up by trucks. These are the exceptional high quality logs, mostly walnut and cherry, which will be used for special furniture, music instruments and other fine products.

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That's enough for this week's update. We will be back with another visit of those roads/streets of the Winding River Region next time. Again you will have some reading to do to keep up with the story. I will make sure to be less generous with words next time, making more pictures and less bla bla..... ;) ok?
In the second next update we will have a look at what Alex Puto has been up to lately, some news about the Donovan Enterprises, why Jordan Meadon was arrested by the police, why Badger is getting out of the army, the prep and Michael Truex is invading the region with his Mr Burger canteens, and of course more.....;) See you then.......

Fred






Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 16, 2010, 08:01:57 AM
I worked the textures again, so they don't look like a "candy-type" building. Now, this will be the final, I hope, unless there's more to do???
Anyways, now I have to figure out how to do the tweaking of the lot, get the stats right etc. I would like to have it about 25% more pumping capacity as the big Maxis waterpump and maybe 5 or more jobs. Let's do some learning and find a tutorial how to do this. ;)

What do you think, ready and good looking enough to put on a lot now?

Fred

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Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on December 16, 2010, 09:05:42 AM
Wow, busy times in the region!  I really like how you're maintaining the character of the swampland shore even with the heavy development pushing up to the edges! 
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nbvc on December 16, 2010, 12:32:10 PM
Nice construction scenes. &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on December 16, 2010, 07:30:18 PM
Thats on fantastic update Fred! Looking forward to more.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: soulchaser on December 17, 2010, 02:57:01 AM
I'd say just fine...looking forward to the lot :thumbsup:

and very nice story...especially the "get out of the military restricted area" part $%#Ninj2
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on December 20, 2010, 07:33:20 PM
QuoteWhat do you think, ready and good looking enough to put on a lot now?


Yepper doodle ...

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on December 21, 2010, 01:56:00 AM
Oi! My character got arrested!? Better have a good explanation for this :angrymore:

lol, jk :P Anyways, great update, hope the people of access have a great party ;D (what's the demonym for Access? Accessite? )

                 Your friend,
                                Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on December 21, 2010, 07:06:10 AM
Really enjoyed that update Mr B.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on December 21, 2010, 10:33:03 AM
Goodness...
I leave for 2 weeks and all this happens? Very good looking, gets better every time.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on December 21, 2010, 03:37:06 PM
Very nice work, that is surely a great region!

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 25, 2010, 02:56:06 AM
Hey, Merry Christmas everyone.

Thanks for having left a comment. I will not be back for a few says. With all the festivities and family re-unions going on at this time o' year, I don't think that I will have the time to spend some hours on SC4.
So, I wish you all a Merry Christmas meantime and I will surely see you before "next year".
;)


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: figui on December 25, 2010, 04:56:55 AM
merry Christmas to you, Fred!

mauricio.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on December 25, 2010, 07:09:23 AM
merry christmas to you to fred.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lynncanox on December 25, 2010, 08:24:49 AM
Yess, merry christmas, chéri.

lynn
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: metarvo on December 25, 2010, 06:53:39 PM
Merry Christmas, Fred!  I hope you're having a good time!  :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on December 25, 2010, 07:27:52 PM
Merry christmas, Fred. Looking forward to your next entry; want to see what would chase the Sergeant out of the army. Don't worry too much about the grow thing; I forgot that you were writing in the '60s.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 31, 2010, 08:00:44 AM
We are on vacation right now, enjoying beautiful beaches and warm waters. I will be back sometime next week.

Meanwhile have yourself a Wonderful and Happy New Years with everything you can wish for. ;)

Have fun!


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on December 31, 2010, 09:12:30 PM
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

I still can't get over the detail of the construction sites... and everything else!  Keep up the good work!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on January 03, 2011, 09:55:05 AM
happy new year fred.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on January 04, 2011, 04:16:25 PM
Nice Updates, I see the city is coming along nicely! Happy New year.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on January 17, 2011, 08:31:55 AM
I'm back, sorry it took so long. I had some busy holiday days and time to spend with my family, then we took a small vacation in the south, having had a great time.
So let's go on with the Winding River story, shall we?
I present the first part of the Access Road visit today.


Update 65

Down the Roads/Streets...Chapter 3A - Access Road Part I

                   Monday, October 24th, 1966
                           Today at this date... then:
                            -  1945 – Founding of the United Nations
                            -  1946 – A camera on board the V-2 No. 13 rocket takes the
                                first photograph of earth from outer space
                            -  2003 – Concorde makes its last commercial flight.

                           

««" Good morning everyone," John Gabber said while coming down the stairs on this Monday morning passing by his youngest daughter Melody-Ann, " get dressed young lady, we're leaving in 10 minutes".
"What do you mean get dressed, Pa? I am dressed, all I need is to put on my coat." John stopped , turned around and took a real good look at his daughter who was dressed in a very short miniskirt, thin material almost see through blouse, yellow boots and a white ribbon in her blond long hair and he shook his head.
"No, this is definitively not dressed, young lady," he replied after a few seconds.
Melody-Ann is now 17 years old, going to the Lakefield Senior college studying medical education and flying with Dad every monday morning to the Capitol City and to come back friday nights with the train. She hates it when Dad calls her young Lady everytime he addresses her and this morning it was once too many. Looking at her mother Mary with a total disappointed and unpatient face, Melody-Ann said: " And I thought you had Dad under control, as you always say."
That indeed caught John's attention and he looked at his wife Mary, making a face as if the moon just fell from the sky. "Before you say anything John," Mary said before he could even open his mouth to comment on that remark, " our so called *little Lady* is 17 years old now, don't forget that and we live in 1966 and not in 1936 with your strange looking pants when we met. Today we have the Beatles, colour TV with 4 channels, everyone has a personal freezer and a motorized lawnmower, Montreal has a metro and the US has two lunar orbiters up there in space and all the girls wear miniskirts with boots and white ribbons in their hair today. Just look around, John. " 
John still shocked that his wife said to his daughter that she had control over him, couldn't say a logical comment on this at the moment, but said:
" Beatles,.....ha, those longhaired no good singing monkeys? Is that an example of modern times to you?, Well, not to me. A young lady should dress properly when she attends school and that's the way it is since school exists."
"Should dressed properly you say, right, well.....you better start doing that too before you talk about it the next time," Mary looks at John with both hands on her hips annalysing his greyish loose pants from the fities and the colar pullover. "If you call that *dressed properly* then Melody is far better than you.....and that's it!" repeating his earlier quotation," Now call Paul to get the plane ready, before you bring our daughter too late to school again." Mary turned her back on John and walked away»»
After a moment of silence, sitting down at the kitchen counter to take a few sips of his coffee, John just mumbled something no one really understood and which didn't seem to be important anyways. He called up Paul Flemming, the Company's pilot, and told him to start the engines in 15 minutes, approximately the time it usually takes to get to the Bluebay small airport from his home. Melody put on her plastic-like yellow coat, which was a little longer than her skirt and which calmed off John a bit, then both left for the airport in Bluebay to take the Company's jet and head towards Lakefield. John will be in his office all gay and Melody will start another week at the college. No words were exchanged between John and Melody during the 35 minute flight.

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Tomorrow John will be 59 years old, only one year to sixty, something that scares him enormously. His father Henry just turned 82 years and his oldest son John Jr, which is working for the Gabber Inc with his uncle Gary is already 27 years old. Time flies by, he thinks so often, remembering the times when he had more free time to be with his family. Maybe he would have realized that times have changed indeed and skirts are nowadays shorter than when he was young. Something he was checking out in the downtown area for sure.

Ok, now let's get back to the third part of the Roads and Streets chapters. Today we will ride along the Access Road, which is the longest road in the Winding River Region sofar.
We all remember that before the region was invaded by the highway that brought along the civilization of the region, and that the only access to it was by the newly built *Access Road*, which starts in Sandom, enters the region in Grasslake and takes a sharp turn north in what is today downtown Access Center. There it partially becomes part of the Mainstreet and then the Valmore street until the Valmore lake where it is again called the Access Road. This road was built to get a shorter access to the highway for its construction back in the early fifties and it follows now the route 35 all through the whole region. From Access Center it heads north to Phlox, going through Valmore and West River. In Phlox it again makes a sharp turn, this time towards the east, heading over the mighty River into the Sterling and Stoke counties. The road ends today on the Ganoga island, where about the highway ends also and is still under continuous construction. We will visit this road from A to Z today, making it hopefully a good and interesting update to the Roads/Streets chapters.
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First Grasslake County, entering the county with farms before reaching the small village of Grasslake. At the left we have the southern most point of the Grasslake, where Guy Racsan lives somwhere in between those treerich beaches. We can also see some constructions going on, meaning that there's still room for more of those called week-end homes. Slowly these are being transformed into regular homes though through the years.

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The village was formed about 8 years ago, when people started bying land around the beautiful lake to build their weekend homes and fishing camps first. Then the village was only active during the warm summermonths, but since more and more people stayed all year around, the village began to live even through the wintermonths. And eversince then, the tiny county town is asking for municipal-political independance. Right now Grasslake is still under decisional control of Access Center (governed by its townhall) and the Lakefield County Administration District, which still has the power to rule over the whole region, including Access Center.

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This is it, the so called "downtown" of Grasslake or Grasstown as some call it these days. It has a small church,  a regional office, an "allstore" outlet, a small gasstation and some small shops that villages usually have. But it has also the freshest and best tasting red tomatoes in the whole region, as a matter of fact, it is the only red tomato growing greenhouse producer in the region...

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Further north while traveling the Access Rd, we enter the Grasslake northern lakepart. Here too the weekend homes have invaded the beaches and more and more are being built. Farmers that own most of the land touching the Winding River are starting to sell their land in pieces for other weekend homes. Now even the Mighty river banks will be invaded. This is a more of a *risk* area, since seasonal flooding of the mighty River is possible.
In this part of the Grasslake, a small creek called Shortcreek is the discharge of the lake, where it empties lake into the big river.

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Like I said, houses are being built here in almost every part of the lake and nice houses they are too, since only families with a fairly good revenue can allow themselves to buy the expensive lots in the area. Well, it is the sixties, every one is dreaming to own a second home and good financial family situations are most common.

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Some nice looking homes, some are seasonable and others are lived in year 'round by retired folks. Some places, like the picture shows below, some homes are almost closely stacked side by side not leaving much room for a bigger lawn. But these "hotspots" so called are rare on the lakeside, mostly because here you have the best view of the whole lake, being somehow situated on small ideal located peninsulas.

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Somewhere in the middle of the Access Road in Grasslake North, just about where the road turns sharply to the west towards Access Center, lies the Osborne brother's farm, right in the turn of the road. We have talked about it awhile ago. Here our Johnny B.Badd has his mari-plantations, near the river on the Osborne's land. Both brothers had some financial problems ever since they bought the land from their father some 5 years ago and with the "green gold" as they call it, it helps paying off the debts. The Osbornes are growing larger fruits trees, which take time to be harvested.

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Traveling again into another county, here is the first part of Access Center called Grassbay by most. It is here that Guy Racsan's father Tony has has mansion on a huge piece of land. He owns most of Grassbay's  lake surrounding land, plus some 1000 acres of the hills and forests surrounding the grasslake. Tony Racsan's land is in one piece and therefore totally cut off public access by a locked gate with a guardian on the Access Rd.
Again some farms are part of this area.

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A little further up loggers are keeping themselves busy unrespectively cutting down the forest of rich and mature firtrees to the ground, leaving nothing else than dead trees, stumbs and branches behind. The wood and lumber being at its most expensive price right now is the best way to make a good living these days. Both Access Road sides are being stacked with ready to transport lumber. Usually it is transported to the Slye Mill in Phlox, but also some go south to Sandom and even Bluebay, where from there it is exported by ships in the harbour.
Some of the newly denuded land will serve as agricultural fields which also are in high demand in the Winding River Region at this time. This part of the Access Road is still on gravel. It should be asphalted once the heavy logging will stop, that is what the Lakefield Administration Office mentioned.

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From here on I will leave a small gap and jump over directly to another citytile, knowing that not much interesting is inbetween the Racsan Mansion and Access Center town's beginning. It is mostly forests anyway, interupted here and there with a small common looking farm.
Back on the road we close in to the town of Access Center and first we have more heavily cultivated lands occupied by farms of all sorts. Surprisingly some forests are still standing in this area, being mostly on private-owned land.

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Not far away from above we have where the farms meet the town. This is the east part of town that we have rarely talked about or even seen. It is mostly residential and quite new, since constructions started here only in the very late fifties. We even have one or two farms here that are totally surrounded by homes and which happened only in the last year. The barn's owners sold all of their livestock, having no more pastures and fields to feed them with. They both probably made a lot of money anyways by selling the lots for residential uses.

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It is here that the Access Road becomes temporarily Mainstreet of Access Center. Other farmers like the one we see on the bottom right of below's picture, are still busy with agriculture, having their fields somewhere not far out of town, but mostly fruit or vegetable farms.

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Again, here like in most places close to downtown of Access, new homes are being build and empty lots are being filled with time. Residential terrains are in very high demand in the Access area and prices have been climbing enormously in the last years. You have to have a big pile of § to be able to buy a small lot of residential zoning near the downtown area, almost impossible for a regular family to do so.
This has never been seen before in all Simland. Land prices here nearby the town are like 150 % higher that in the Capitol City of Lakefield, where the most expensive lots used to be.

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To finish Part 1 of this update, we end it with a picture of the intersection of Mainstreet and Valmore Street, both formerly known as Access Road. It is here again that the road will make a sharp turn northward to enter Valmore and head directly to the Phlox county. Mainstreet continues straight to the highway, which is one of the streets we have visited in an earlier update of this series. Not much of explanation is necessary for this picture since we know the downtown part quite well. Gabber Park is still under construction as we can see below.

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The next time we will visit the rest of the Access Road, Part 2, we drive past the Valmore Lake, the museum and by the Donovan Enterprises, Robert Sweather's home, the newly detoured West River and the army base, then into Phlox and its small town and over the large bridge, over the Sterling island and eastward, passing by the Willow Ponds towards the Ganoga Marshlands where the highway team is about to build the longest bridge yet under Alex Puto's supervision. That will be the second and last part of this visit. After that, we will return to regular news about some our characters again, including some of the developments of a cleaner town and the airport.
;)

Remember you can visually follow the trail of the Access Road on a bigger and more detailed picture on the link below:

http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/2638/1965windingrivervalleyn.png


Fred

EDIT: Just about when I finished uploading this update, my Antivirus panicked, telling me with dozens of pop-ups that it will end its function within the next three days and that I needed to renew it......lol.....That damn AVAST Antivirus jammed my computer completely. Now I can't do anything without waiting like 1 to 2 minutes for a program to open and work about only at 25% speed and efficacity. This is ridiculously stupid.
Now I have to reinstall windows and everything else.
I am just pissed off at computers, internet, programs that never work troublefree and people who are too stupid to create something that really works like it is supposed to be and those who create programs and viruses that cause all these f***ups at the moment. What has this world come to?
It will take a week or two before I will be able to continue. I have to re-install everything, including windows and I have to find someone to do this for me. Sorry for the delay and hopefully you enjoyed this update the same.
Luckily I am able to save everything that I have on my computer, because most of the back-ups are on my second and third hard-drive. C U then...... ;) (...and don't worry, I'll survive and won't kill anyone meantime...)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on January 17, 2011, 11:29:58 AM
Nice update, and I'm sorry about your problem. Hopefully everything will be alright.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: sumwonyuno on January 19, 2011, 02:05:31 PM
First off, even though your computer situation is such an obstacle, at least you have backups.   :-[

Anyways, I am amazed at your work.  I really like the coastline and the nearby development.   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on January 20, 2011, 07:17:39 PM
The town grows bigger again.  :thumbsup: yet it seems to have lost that homey feel
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Terring7 on January 21, 2011, 03:29:39 AM
For as long as you back up your work, no need to worry. The town looks interesting. Some pictures reminds me some landscapes i watch on television when i was a kid. Beautiful memories ::)

Please keep going :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Badsim on January 21, 2011, 04:20:40 AM
Well Fred , I know and enjoy your work since so many years ... that I don't why I didn't comment so far . That's a shame ... your MD/CJ is one of the best running ..... I'm too maniac with details , your approach is surely more reasonable , at least surely as striking than mine . There's not so many valuable ways to consider that game ... ::)

Belated congratulations for that grandness all around .

&apls &apls &apls

Cédric.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on January 21, 2011, 06:30:57 AM
love the new update, glad you enjoyed your holiday season, sorry to hear about the computer issue, personally i do my own antivirusing, as software is often a painful burden on memory and clock cycles. i wait with baited breath for the enxt installment.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on January 21, 2011, 11:31:41 AM
Sorry to hear about the anti virus issue, but the update looked pretty good. you have a nice touch for detailed flora work and it looks like things are booming everywhere around the region. Looking forward to the next update.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on January 23, 2011, 11:14:03 AM
Cyclone1001, don't worry, I haven't lost a thing.
sumwonyuno, thanks, but I think you mean the riverbanks or beaches as I have no coast in this region, or are referring to Bluebay (the update before?)
danielcote, well, we aren't really seeing that feely home part of the town in the last updates, but we'll get to this later.
Terring7, funny, me too I have seen parts of that region before, but irl, probably in NZ, only there landscapes could like this. ;)
Badsim, well thank youuu. Nice to see you here, now that you broke the ice I hope to see you more often....lol
mightygoose, doing my own antivirusing I wish I could do also, but computer knowledge to me is verrrrrry limited.
threestooges, thanks, yes, the region is getting slowly invaded.

Thanks everyone. Although I have some severe problems with my *gaming 'puter*, I have, as mentioned before, everything safe on my D: Drive. I do my "back-ups" every sunday evening ever since I have lost everything a year ago. In other words, I have almost everyfile on my gaming computer on the C:/Drive as a double on the D:/Drive. Good grief, am I glad I did this.
Now I am waiting for my oldest son to come by and does some formatting and re-install windows. Probably in a week or so, since he lives some 150 kms from us now (Montreal). Meanwhile though, I will use up all the pictures that I have done before. I transferred them to my laptop and make at least another update later this week.
Today I only have a "Teaser" for you, especially for those who like details..... ;)

This is the end of the Access Road, the very end, right here where they are preparing to build the longest bridge ever in the Winding River Region. Alex Puto says that it will take almost 2 years to build with a cost of almost 1 million § and cover two of the Ganoga Marshland's outlets. The preparation has started 2 months ago and soon the first pillars will rise in the river, while the main "bridgeteam" has not yet arrived. They're still finishing the two Winding River bridges in Phlox
I know, it is the end of the Access Road and there's still two more updates to do to reach this, but like I said, I will use up the pictures that I have while waiting for the computer to get fixed.
Enjoy and very thanks for the comments, which are always much appreciated.

Fred

Ps: Coming up later this week: The continuity of the Access Road update from Valmore to Phlox.(Update 66)

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Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on January 23, 2011, 04:34:50 PM
We need an entire MD devoted to Bluebay and Lakested.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on January 23, 2011, 07:44:08 PM
Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on January 23, 2011, 04:34:50 PM
We need an entire MD devoted to Bluebay and Lakested.


Whoa!....lol.... Now you scared the heck out of me to show you any more pictures from Frampton, Beecherfalls, Sandom, Bergen, Reverant and Meadow, all regions that take part of this MD....Oh, I forgot, there's also Buff Mountains which is also from the Lakestead townships, we haven't seen that one yet, did we?

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg375.imageshack.us%2Fimg375%2F5083%2F5mapganogawrwnewhighway.png&hash=ef6e3a10198cb19342b9072959330ee27539e4c7)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: scott1964 on January 23, 2011, 09:34:27 PM
 :o Nice map.  :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on January 24, 2011, 10:14:50 AM
Been a bit since I've ben on; this looks great. You have certainly captured the problems of urban sprawl.

Just out of curiousity, since we've seen the map before, what does Winding River look like right now from the air? I'm just wondering how much "wilderness" is left.

-FW
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: soulchaser on January 24, 2011, 11:40:23 AM
Lookin' great Mr. B. Nice Update. I like your natural settings.
Sad to hear you're up to a lot of work with your PC.
I can feel with you. It's been a while since my whole Plugin-Folder got messed up while problems with the Startup Manager...I decided to start from (almost) 0 again :(
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on January 24, 2011, 11:52:14 AM
Thanks scott1964, the map exists since the beginning of this MD.
soulchaser, don't worry, this is only my gaming computer, nothing on there than games, anti-virus and windows. It won't be long to get everything back on it. Every saved game, download or tool has been kept as a back-up safely on its D:/ Drive.
;)

Quote from: frostwolf on January 24, 2011, 10:14:50 AM
Just out of curiousity, since we've seen the map before, what does Winding River look like right now from the air? I'm just wondering how much "wilderness" is left.

I guess that there is still a long way to go, before we can say the wilderness is getting rare. Percentage wise I would say that only about 10 to 15 of the region is build over at the moment.
The whole "Ganoga Wilderness" (the right half of the map) is not yet explored at all, so are the lands surrounding it, maybe hiding some mysteries or treasures yet. I know that some folks from the Simland government have been sent to some of the areas to find out and probe the riches of the soils, such as coal, which is very in demand right now, oil, which is also searched for and then all the other precious or semi-precious products that the earth may contain or have produced. But that is still to find out.
It is the job of our bushpilot Steve Gibson to bring these specialists to the right places and get them out after, and it seems that he is more and more busier with that.
Here is the latest entire map of the region, which was made in July/1965. It is very detailed and large. Warning: it may take awhile to open, since it is a png image and big.
Enjoy

Fred


http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/2638/1965windingrivervalleyn.png
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on January 26, 2011, 11:16:33 AM
Thats a great teaser, really looking forward to the next update of our favorite story :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on January 26, 2011, 02:20:40 PM
I agree, a great looking teaser. Can't wait for the next one!

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on January 26, 2011, 05:22:57 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on January 24, 2011, 11:52:14 AM
maybe hiding some mysteries or treasures yet

Shiver me timbers! Capt Red Insanity is using Neptune's black compass in search of MrB's plunder. Legend says that a chest of gold dubloons is buried on Bergen Island near a rock formation resembling the Rage of Eel. Watch out for those pirates and smugglers MrB!!!    :o  :o  :o

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi148.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fs26%2Fjmyers2043%2Ftreasurebox.jpg&hash=24361a545227fe4131656664ce4c4ca24ab0758f)

@ Fred, I'm looking forward to your bat of the Rage of Eel.

- Jim

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on January 26, 2011, 11:00:03 PM
Thanks nedalezz and Kov Liberty.


Quote from: jmyers2043 on January 26, 2011, 05:22:57 PM
Shiver me timbers! Capt Red Insanity is using Neptune's black compass in search of MrB's plunder. Legend says that a chest of gold dubloons is buried on Bergen Island near a rock formation resembling the Rage of Eel. Watch out for those pirates and smugglers MrB!!!    :o  :o  :o

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi148.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fs26%2Fjmyers2043%2Ftreasurebox.jpg&hash=24361a545227fe4131656664ce4c4ca24ab0758f)

@ Fred, I'm looking forward to your bat of the Rage of Eel.

- Jim



Hmmm, I gut meself a neu edea fah a BAT dere....lol...thanks Jim. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on January 28, 2011, 05:43:18 AM
Great work on update 65 and the other pictures on the previous page! Fantastic looking city and your rural shots are beautiful!
Looking forward to more...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: sumwonyuno on January 30, 2011, 12:10:03 PM
Whoops, sorry for the lack of specificity.  I meant the area from Rock Island to Grasslake.

Wow!  The Ganoga Marshlands picture is even better!   :thumbsup:  It's quite detailed.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 01, 2011, 06:18:45 PM
Thanks you all.

There will be an update in a day or two with the rest of the pictures that I had. My son will not be able to come down this weekend and fix (re-install windows) that gaming computer with SC4 because of a severe winterstorm nearing the area that the mid US is sending us ( %wrd), so other updates will probably be delayed for another week.

Meanwhile though I am playing around with gmax on my laptop and started to produce some bats that I need for my GRV II Challenge 10 and also for this MD. Just to give you a brief look of exactly what I am doing, here is a preview of one of my construction pieces. You probably know by now, that I love construction scenes, right? (Looks like the Sims will be building a highway bridge soon) ;)
There will be a dozen or so new Bats and lots. It will take awhile though, geeez, I'm miserable with gmax..... &mmm

Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg547.imageshack.us%2Fimg547%2F6199%2Fcranephase3.png&hash=96c750a3a6546898d0fe86a2df18e61a18e74738)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: woodb3kmaster on February 01, 2011, 07:49:06 PM
First off, let me just say that I've been a lurker here in the WRP for a long time now, watching you grow the Winding River region pretty much from the start. I've loved every bit of it - even the rather verbose updates! Your work here has been a big source of inspiration to me in my MD'ing, and your storytelling is top-notch.

Your BATs are also inspiring to me as a beginning BATter. I've had a series of construction BATs on the back burner for a while now, and I've been struggling with how to get more construction equipment into my scenes, especially adding a crane or two. Your newest construction BAT above (another job well done, btw!) makes me wonder: did you model that crane from scratch, or did you download it from somewhere? I've had trouble finding good free 3D crane models online, so if you could share where you found it, I'd be most grateful.

Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful work! I look forward to seeing more from you when you get your computer issues resolved.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on February 01, 2011, 08:32:24 PM
Hey Fred

Nice bat MrB! Well done - in fact - very cool.



- Jim




Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 01, 2011, 08:52:42 PM
Quote from: woodb3kmaster on February 01, 2011, 07:49:06 PM
Your newest construction BAT above (another job well done, btw!) makes me wonder: did you model that crane from scratch, or did you download it from somewhere? I've had trouble finding good free 3D crane models online, so if you could share where you found it, I'd be most grateful.


I seldom do download models or regions, but when I do I always completely overhaul them. I downloaded a few cranes some years ago but unfortunetly I couldn't tell you from where, because I hardly visit these sites anymore.

Here are 3 sites that I used to frequent a lot for 3d models:

http://www.3dcadbrowser.com/browse.aspx?letter=V
http://artist-3d.com/free_3d_models/01architecture_design.php?s=12&np=15&srt=
http://www.3dm3.com/modelsbank/

There were more, but the rest of them closed or disappeared, maybe there are newer ones out, do a google search for 3d models.
Btw, there's a crane in several pieces that you can put together in LE somewhere on the STEX I think.(in blue and yellow) I use it sometimes If you can't find it, ask for it in the "Where can I find Threads".

The crane in the picture above I didn't start from scratch, but I heavily altered it so I could fit it into my building style together with my other BATs and also to my liking. I still have do more details on the bridge pieces and maybe shorten the height of the crane and enlargen the backweight, looks too small for me.
I have another one that I totally altered somewhere, maybe use it later here in my MD.
Thanks for dropping in and come out of the "shadowside" of the lurkers, thanks for the comment and hope to see ya again.

Fred

Edit:
Quote from: jmyers2043 on February 01, 2011, 08:32:24 PM
Hey Fred
Nice bat MrB! Well done - in fact - very cool.
- Jim

Hey thanks a lot Jim, coming from you it's honorable for me ;) , mostly after I saw those little beautiful BATs of yours that you lately showed in the GRV II Challenge 10....wow! Top-Bats I must say.
I only hope that you download them one day....... ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on February 02, 2011, 10:54:40 AM
I really like that construction bat.  I'm looking forward to seeing it in game! 
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: vester on February 02, 2011, 12:23:43 PM
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg547.imageshack.us%2Fimg547%2F6199%2Fcranephase3.png&hash=96c750a3a6546898d0fe86a2df18e61a18e74738)

Looks very cool, but hardly anything to do with RL.

The tightness indicate that it is concrete. Steel would on general be thinner with  stiffening elements.


Lets say the element is 6 x 15 meters and 0,5 meter thick.  That would weigh : 6*15*0,5 m³ * 2400 kg/m³ = 108 tons.

Quite a bit!!!


Most time concrete elements is done on the spot. You build up on a form work where you pure in the concrete:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg842.imageshack.us%2Fimg842%2F9585%2Fishoejstationsvej11lg.jpg&hash=043731a43ff5e534abcb3d7d8e7d5c9ee009d6b3)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg196.imageshack.us%2Fimg196%2F8595%2Fishoejstationsvej12lg.jpg&hash=b72cb0acbe809d0794876b034f14d2bf5f32063e)
This is just the form works with the exceptions of some concrete pillars.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg547.imageshack.us%2Fimg547%2F5439%2Ffunderaa07lg.jpg&hash=7dce3ba054fbf36d24c1e0ae4a6a033992d53406)
Here is a picture of the form works with steel reinforcement.

The same bridge:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg543.imageshack.us%2Fimg543%2F119%2Ffunderaa06lg.jpg&hash=50b8d64ef30eeaf959c134254bfa31272400e6ab)
This bridge is pure at the end and pushed out in place.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg833.imageshack.us%2Fimg833%2F9236%2Ffunder550x210ashx.jpg&hash=879eb0d92fe5bc30d7e79a4d8264a50df34f359a)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg13.imageshack.us%2Fimg13%2F9176%2Ffunderaadal1550x210ashx.jpg&hash=0c360cc720d8fec1c352f68b4737f4ca88c3e33c)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 02, 2011, 02:49:00 PM
Quote from: vester on February 02, 2011, 12:23:43 PM
Looks very cool, but hardly anything to do with RL.


Yeap, you're right, this ain't nothing to do with RL.
Thanks for the pictures, but I know how bridges are build irl, I learned it in school at the time when I was an architecture student, some 35 years ago.

First of all, nice of you to bring this up, and I agree with you 100 %. I like the way you explain things so well, especially for gmax as I have experienced before. Keep it up, but...

...let's not forget these points for this project:

- I don't have the time neither the knowledge on a 3d Program to spend hrs on a RL project for simcity.
- this is Simcity, not RL.
- this is a bridge building project for my GRV II Challenge and for this MD only.
- this is a bridge over water (not land as you probably presume, waterbridges are usually build differently than landbridges and also they have different engineers to do them)
- my project has more than a dozen of different BATs in different building stages, including pillars under construction and still in forms, some with rodwireframes or whatever you call them, not shown here.
- this is a finished poured concrete water pillar shown above, for an example of my project. Barges will still have to be batted and added, also some more details will be added to the pillar and the crane's mast will be shortened, while the counterweight will be made larger. People.....no, Sims will be added (I'm waiting for a program I just bought on e-bay to make sims)

Here's another picture of some pillars under construction.
Thanks again, vester.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg829.imageshack.us%2Fimg829%2F1095%2Fnexpillars.jpg&hash=9d792c14c285a63a4179548158c152f6397d9a0b)


Now to my mainproject, ready to upload soon.

I finished the Water Pumping Station. It is Final and ready to create a lot and then to send to jmyers2043 for testing and tweaking. I made two versions, one with and one without the three watertanks. Both will be available soon with the same stats (more or less).
If there are things to be changed or can be improved easily, like details, textures etc, let me know, now is the time to do so. On next weekend, the lots will be made and send to the Tester.
Hope you like these City Pumps, I surely will. ;)

Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg811.imageshack.us%2Fimg811%2F9868%2Fpumpingstationfinal.jpg&hash=01c283576d110aa47f38e6d7a86bdd553d692e01)


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 03, 2011, 04:21:27 PM
All of those look great dude!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on February 03, 2011, 07:33:42 PM
All I can say is, thank god this isn't real life. otherwise we'd have to wait several years just for the planning stages for that bridge, two to three more years for all the kibbitzing to die down, and who knows how long for the actual project to be completed. ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 06, 2011, 01:42:11 PM
Sorry that I couldn't upload any updates, but we received something like 3 feet (approx 1 meter) of snow in the last 5 days here at the New Hampshire border in Québec and shoveling and blowing snow has become the main activity ever since. I am not supposed to do any shoveling at all with my heart condition, but geeez, someone has to do it, right?.....lol... But I also use a lot my big Tractor with a 8 ft PTO (powertakeoff) snowblower.
Anyways, my driveway, which is about 800 meters long (that's half a mile) goes through a thick and virgin forest for about half of its length and it has a lot of broken branches and trees on it now because of the heavy snowfall, which is blocking us for the moment. Most of the big pinetrees stripped of their branches, some are like 1 foot in diameter and 30 feet long. I got 2 guys fulltime working on clearing it, doing some rl logging (just in my MD....lol), so that we can get out of here soon. The only way out at the moment is by snowmobile.

So, you will not see me for the next 10 days or so. I will leave tomorrow night for the airport, heading to Europe (Germany), visiting my family near Aachen and Cologne and spend some good time. Needed some vacation again. ;)

When I come back, I hopefully have my gaming computer repaired and it will not be long for another update.
Take care folks and don't forget to have some fun, very important! ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on February 07, 2011, 09:36:15 AM
man the eifel....i love the eifel, bad munstereifel i have been to many times, cologne and aachen also. beautiful region. have fun.

EDIT 201103110230 i hope repairs and you are well.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: harishna on March 13, 2011, 10:21:47 PM
very nice work Fred!

I think the crane is not entirely unrealistic, pre-made concrete pieces were used to build an elevated highway in Mexico the pieces were lifted but the cranes were below the elevated highway not on top, and the type of crane was also different, so maybe the crane can go on a barge? that I think would look more realistic...

how about these for inspiration ?

http://img397.imageshack.us/img397/1397/24054377ld.jpg
http://img521.imageshack.us/img521/5631/24054317jk.jpg
http://img160.imageshack.us/img160/6937/23958701aq.jpg

this kind of crane is also used but I couldn't find an image in action..
http://img510.imageshack.us/img510/7334/20mar10044.jpg

this is one in Spain
http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/3346/grua6wr.jpg

cheers
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Battlecat on March 16, 2011, 11:24:13 AM
I really like those pumping facilities! 
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 24, 2011, 12:30:42 PM
Quote from: Battlecat on March 16, 2011, 11:24:13 AM
I really like those pumping facilities! 

The pumps are at the scrutineers at the moment and will be uploaded to the LEX (for the moment only, until I figure out a way how to be able to upload to the Stex) when they are ready testing/verifying them.
As you know, I made two different models, one without and one with extra tanks. You can choose one or both of them.
They produce slighter more than the Maxis Large Pumping Station and are on 3x3 lots. They also cost a little more.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg220.imageshack.us%2Fimg220%2F5281%2Fnexis216a.jpg&hash=d07bbb5e402f3652ac16bdced54e64e6cb036197)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg17.imageshack.us%2Fimg17%2F7641%2Fnexis216b.jpg&hash=cec33ded5302e0a6c02f140c416eaf63794faab1)

Thanks harishna, the pictures gave me some inspiration. I like the one with the "floating rails" , maybe later.... ;)

Now for the Winding River Project....
I have my computer fixed, back to normal windows without viruses and trojans, working like new. I re-installed the game and everything that comes with it. All my plugins are back in its place (thanks that I have an external HD and make a copy of them every 2 or 3 weeks) and everything is back to normal. There will be an update soon, most probably this weekend, the follow-up of the Access Road visit.
See you then and thanks for the comments. Keep them up!


Fred


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on March 25, 2011, 09:32:32 AM
welcome back. the pumping station looks great.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on March 25, 2011, 10:12:03 PM
Alright, did I miss anything? Been gone since the last update, and welcome back.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on March 26, 2011, 08:20:18 AM
Welcome back, Fed. Glad to hear your computer is back up and running.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 27, 2011, 07:26:40 AM
My gaming computer was "out of order" as you knew. I had to wait until my fellow son finds the time and comes down from Montreal to re-install windows on it. It definitively had a virus slowing it to almost 5% capacity and had the processor (UCL) running at 100% all the time.
Now, about the *down the roads/streets* series, I will have to do 3 parts of the Access Road, because there's simply too much to talk about and see. This is part 2 of that series.....So let's go on with the story.


Update 66

Down the Roads/Streets...Chapter 3B - Access Road Part 2

                        Monday, November 13th, 1966
                           Today in November ... then:

- November 6 – Lunar Orbiter 2 is launched.
- The Beatles begin recording sessions for their landmark Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album.
- November 30 – Barbados achieves independence.
[/size]


Perceived only as a red lightening through the windshield of Policechief Kyle Roberts' patrolcar, the mustang was long gone before he even got started to follow it. It was the chief's daytime job today to survey the speed limits on Highway 35 in between West River and Valmore. When he finally got his car going, he radioed other patroller's that the mustang was heading south towards Access Junction. It wasn't long though that the chief saw the red car way in front of him turning off the highway and considerably having slowed down before entering the townlimits of Access Junction and caught up with the red phantom.
««" Can I see your registration papers and driving licence please." the chief asked the young fellow that was driving the brandnew 1967 red mustang after he stopped him. " Did you know that you were going at the speed of 135 miles per hr (215km/h) in a zone where only 70 mph (110kmh) is allowed?" The kid didn't seem wanting to respond and chief Roberts didn't bother waiting for an answer while he went back to the patrol car to get more information by radio on the driver. After about 5 minutes he got back asking. " Are you in any way related to John S. Gabber from Bluebay, Mr William Gabber?"..
"Yes, John Gabber is my father", Young Billy answered and looking at the chief, " Is there anything wrong, Sir?"
"Well, you know that you were extremely speeding on Highway 35 at the height of West River and that we have caught you on radar. I will have to inform your father about it. It will be tolerated for this time only, take it as a serious warning, the next time you will have to confront the accusations of speeding and dangerous driving." the Police chief of the Access Junction region explained and finalizing his short speech with...,"I hope this is well understood, now please drive carefully. By the way, nice car." Billy politely thanked the officer and drove slowly off into the town to meet his father at Barby's Biergarten for lunch, where he had some explaining to do.»»
Billy (William), as we remember , is the youngest of the Gabber family, he just turned 18 years old and is going to the Lakestead University with his best friend, Diarmuid MacGormain. He just bought himself that brand new 1967 Mustang in Beecher Falls, north of here and is driving it home to Bluebay for the first time. His first dream came true.

66.01A
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg824.imageshack.us%2Fimg824%2F5153%2F6601avalmore.jpg&hash=2a66af3ddf4209cf42f572c5b566de5bd50c18ed)

We left Access Center's downtown with the last picture of the last update and enter here the Valmore part of the town. As we know Access Center and Valmore have joined into one town a little over 5 years ago but still today a lot of folks call this part Valmore which continues north over two citytiles to West River, where the armybase is at the moment. Valmore is known for the Valmore lake, a medium sized beautiful lake that empties into the Chime lake and then with the West River both lakes empty themselves into the Winding River at the Crossbow Junction, the terrains that the Gabber and Allheimers own.
At entering, we don't see much of a difference of what we just left in Access Center. Only houses and shops are slowly getting smaller when heading out of town.
A project that was asked for to consider by the administration office in the last months of 1966, is the creating of a passenger train station in Access. The passenger train will pass through the Winding River starting as early as by the end of next year (1967) since a connection between Frampton and Bluebay has been established. While the rails are already existing, putting on a passengertrain is only half the problem, if there is a problem at all.
In the Access's Mayor office it was proposed to establish a station and that it should be near downtown. Then the opposition wanted two stations, one in downtown and one in the growing part of Valmore. Of course, this is only talk at the moment. The yellow circle proposes the new station for the Valmore part of town. The downtown station should be somewhere near or on the Harry Wormwood lots.

66.01
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg189.imageshack.us%2Fimg189%2F9613%2F6601valmoresouthtown.jpg&hash=215536d3111d6364ec6d6afbac915a279b2a04e8)

A little further down the road we see the Regional Museum of Nature, it was built some years ago right over the findings of a dinosaure skelleton as we remember. Today it serves to present all kinds of natural things found in the region, including some newer findings of the Skullpeople that the government released lately. An important part of the museum will soon open up to the public with many finds from these almost prehistoric people of the Winding River Valley. Many of these highly interesting proofs of the skullpeople come from the military base in West River.
Here also is where the Highway 15 meets the Access Road for the first time. It used to be in Access downtown itself, but many years ago they changed the direction of the highway to contour the town because of being too noisy and causing too many traffic problems. The museum is close to a small commercial sector that is slowly developping, probably taking profit from the visitors.

66.02
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg862.imageshack.us%2Fimg862%2F3694%2F6602valmoresouthmuseum.jpg&hash=b9aad71a91384880437f14103dfdd6a83492d68e)

Not far from the museum is the highway's second entry/exit of highway 15. Here the town just ends and merges into the more agricultural part of Access, which later leads right into West River. Although this highway exit is out of town, it is one of the busiest one. A few lots near it were reserved lately by an oil company in Frampton to build an important gastation and most probably a restaurant and motel.

66.03
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg534.imageshack.us%2Fimg534%2F7241%2F6603valmoresouthhgwyexi.jpg&hash=8e7e9a43e2fbd9b9b2eba54f0b3f4a3bba080eed)

Out of town, but not too far away we come across the Donovan enterprises, which sell mostly construction materials. A beef farm nearby was lately bought out by Donovan, probably to enlargen his buissness. Around the area also some residents got rooted, those who love the countryside of living. The Access Road follows the highway all the way from here up to Phlox, where it once gets separated again.

66.04
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Before leaving the Valmore county and Access Center town for good, here's a last picture of the Access Road and the Highway in this part of the region. This is the northern countryside of Access, and only farms and very little residential homes (except farmowners) can be found nearby.
Bell Road will soon become an important intersection with Highway 35 and it will lead to the new airport they are working on at this time. The town did not yet decide how much money to invest into this project and whether it will become just a regular exit or an intersection.

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When entering West River South, which used to be Valmore North, the first thing we come across is the old farm of Robert Sweathers, which somehow seems to be abandonned nowadays. Robert has a rare and slowgrowing kind of cancer which he is being treated for since a year. We all remember him as the survivor form a airplane crash near the end of WWII and was found when the highway people came through the area, many years after his crash. He then started a farm selling vegetables along the Access Road. Shortly after some homes were built around his farm and today a very small village, not yet independant and belonging to Phlox's administration has come to life.
Here the Access Road ends somehow for a short while since it joins the Highway 15 to cross the West River. A maintenance office for the highway was built here also. This highway office takes care of the highway 35 from the beginning in the Winding River region and up to the Phlox intersection.

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Further up, after the bridge, Access Road becomes independant again and alongside the highway, this time on the west side, it also follows the West River until the entrance of the regional armybase. Here the army is still working on the detour that they are planning for the river, so it will not go through or near the base anymore. Big job, many people are working here and quite a challenge to dig out the channnel without flooding it. The river flows a lot faster in the springtime, when the snow in the mountains thaws, therefor a big wall of boulders was constructed in front of the channel's mouth to make sure that the river will not chump away on the terrain near the highway. The dam will be build right after the opening of the shortcut-channel.

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Of course we all knew that the Access Road passes by the army's base in West River by now. Strange how no one has build a home nearby, although the terrains are open for sale for residential zones since 2 years. I guess until it is proved that the army is not doing anything hazardous or dangerous, nor that the gasleaks are too great , no one would like to live nearby. The base is now heavily guarded, eversince the "Gabber gang" found a breach to enter it silently. A lot of construction is still being done on the base, which never seems to go to sleep anymore.

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After a few miles (km's) past the West River, we enter the county and the town of Phlox. Here the Access Road takes some wild detours to get back to the highway and cross the bridge over the mighty Winding River with it.

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We have a better view of it on the picture below how the Access Road winds through the highway's intersection. (yellow line) This is where Highway 15 from Bluebay, Sandom and Access Center meet  Highway35 that goes west to end up in the City of Lakefield. This part of the highway was built by another construction Company than the Gabber Inc and it was finished two years ago.
This is Phlox below, or at least a part of it since Phlox has started in two different places at the same time. The original "downtown" is on the bridges westside, while the town tries to create a new one right here near the intersection. Phlox is new, only 5 years old, but because of an intense Government program it has been somewhat invasional since the last year. Many homes have been built and wherever you look there are constructionsites of all kinds. In an earlier update we have seen the suburbs that our Civil Engineer Riichirou Takahaschi has planned two years ago. It is growing five times faster than what Access Center opened for residential zoning on the upper part of the Fingerlake.
Somehow that disturbs Mayor Bartlett a little bit, maybe he even feels like that he is competing with freshly chosen Mayor William B. Sharp of Phlox. Sharp has full support of the administration office in Lakefield, being a good friend of the president of the commission, but I don't think that he feels any competition between both Winding River Mayors.

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That's it again, the next time we will have a regular update instead of the 3rd part of the Access Road visit. Something to get back into the story and our characters. Maybe just a reminder of what all our characters are doing at the moment, at this time of winter 1966/67.
See you soon.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on March 27, 2011, 09:22:41 AM
Yay! Its back! In terms of storytelling, Winding River is nothing short of epic!

I am also looking forward to seeing your BATs come to life in your MD :)

Another awesome and detailed update, Fred, making for another great read!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on March 27, 2011, 11:43:28 AM
Wow..., another fantastic work!!! Awesome update again!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on March 31, 2011, 04:44:06 PM
Great to see the updates back up and running again Fred. Nice developments of late. It always seems like there are several things going on at once, but they all seem to get their time in the spotlight, and they all seem to be planned. How far in advance do you plot the developments?
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on March 31, 2011, 06:04:42 PM
superb update as always, it is like you never left.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 01, 2011, 06:31:55 PM
Thanks guys. Right now I am out of pictures and have to do some actual "playing the game". I should have an interesting update ready by midweek. It is already written and now I have to create the scenes and take pictures.....

Quote from: threestooges on March 31, 2011, 04:44:06 PM
How far in advance do you plot the developments?
-Matt

Hey Matt, actually I don't really plan anything. Usually I just play and create and all of sudden a story comes with some images in my head, then take a picture and write. Other times I just got an idea for a story and start writing (like this coming update) and then play and then create the scenes and take the pics. One or the other, both are interesting.
All I plan a little in advance is the general destiny of all the characters, let's say I know more or less where this and that character are going. But mostly I just jump right into the scenery, play and do whatever my minds want me to do.
Although I 'm a serious loghome designer since 37 years irl, and planning ahead is an important issue, when it comes to pleasure things, it is the contrary. Never things are planned properly, sometimes it's perfect, and sometimes it's just a mess...... ;) Surprises I like. lol Maybe it's because I have to be too serious with my job that I will just let myself go with the simcity stories...... &Thk/(

Like I said above, the next update still has to be created and pictured, while the story is already written since wednesday night. We will end the journey along the Access Road this time, visiting it from the intersection of highway 35 and 15 and the big bridge in Phlox down to where they actually are busy building the next bridge over the Ganoga Marshlands. Nice story that comes with it. ;) We get to meet some of our characters again. The highlight will be on Rundi Sterling, the billionaire from Frampton, who owns most of the land on the other side of the river.
No later than next thursday !

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on April 01, 2011, 08:22:22 PM
And the base continues to grow....  Wonder what they're really doing?

Interestingly, a friend of mine just told a story similar to the young Mr. Gabber's...  he had a 67(?) Charger and had been speeding along sparsely populated roads...  and then he hopped on the interstate in Southern California and no fewer than FOUR California State troopers pulled him over.

It wasn't because he had been speeding... it was because he had a sweet car!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 01, 2011, 11:49:03 PM
Quote from: CabraBuitre on April 01, 2011, 08:22:22 PM
And the base continues to grow....  Wonder what they're really doing?

Interestingly, a friend of mine just told a story similar to the young Mr. Gabber's...  he had a 67(?) Charger and had been speeding along sparsely populated roads...  and then he hopped on the interstate in Southern California and no fewer than FOUR California State troopers pulled him over.

It wasn't because he had been speeding... it was because he had a sweet car!

Oh I believe you.....Well, for my eighteenth birthday in 1971, my father bought me a 2 year old used '69 Red Mustang with a 429 SCJ motor (wasn't I lucky?) and a milage of around 8,000 . It made a beautiful sound when running, purring softly and telling us with its sound how strong its motor was. I just loved it....still do, because I still have it, now it has 62,000 miles on it, but running as new.
I parked it when I started my own company in 1976 and left it untouched until summer 1993. After all these years it was still running and purring like before and after having put a couple of $ to renew certain parts (mostly rubber and plastics) I sometimes take it for a ride in the summer. Ha..... I get stopped by the cops here in Quebec everytime also, and believe me, it's not for speeding neither.....lol...just for a "verification" as they say....lol... Verification my a**! They are all surprised to see a white bearded old fellow driving it....makes me smile everytime. ;)

Somehow the story about young Billy Gabber in the last update I got from my own memories.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on April 02, 2011, 07:54:47 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on April 01, 2011, 11:49:03 PM
Oh I believe you.....Well, for my eighteenth birthday in 1971, my father bought me a 2 year old used '69 Red Mustang with a 429 SCJ motor (wasn't I lucky?) and a milage of around 8,000 . It made a beautiful sound when running, purring softly and telling us with its sound how strong its motor was. I just loved it....still do, because I still have it, now it has 62,000 miles on it, but running as new.
I parked it when I started my own company in 1976 and left it untouched until summer 1993. After all these years it was still running and purring like before and after having put a couple of $ to renew certain parts (mostly rubber and plastics) I sometimes take it for a ride in the summer. Ha..... I get stopped by the cops here in Quebec everytime also, and believe me, it's not for speeding neither.....lol...just for a "verification" as they say....lol... Verification my a**! They are all surprised to see a white bearded old fellow driving it....makes me smile everytime. ;)

Somehow the story about young Billy Gabber in the last update I got from my own memories.

Fred

Hehe, that's great!  (unless you have somewhere to go..)

Do you have a picture of it?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 03, 2011, 11:12:19 AM
Quote from: CabraBuitre on April 02, 2011, 07:54:47 PM

Do you have a picture of it?

Of course....I uploaded a picture of it two years ago to a site on the net (can't remember which one though). I will have to find one in my picturebox and scan it. Be back with it soon.


Meanwhile I had 5 minutes to fool around with gmax, had a dumb idea somehow..... A Park with a monument created by the famous Sim, Pete Casso.
Anyone interested? ;)


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Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on April 06, 2011, 07:32:58 PM
Great couple of updates Fred. It's always nice to catch up un your MD after being away from SC4 for so long.  BTW I really like the world in a box ;)

- Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on April 08, 2011, 06:20:10 PM
world in a box, a comment on corporate globalisation?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on April 09, 2011, 12:32:01 PM
Quote from: mightygoose on April 08, 2011, 06:20:10 PM
world in a box, a comment on corporate globalisation?
Well, it does remind me of some corporate art pieces I've seen. Not sure what the dimensions there are, but this looks like it would be right at home out in front of some glass skyscraper HQ, perhaps as the centerpiece of some fountain/pond thing.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 17, 2011, 12:29:24 PM
Back with the rest of the Access Road Visit. Thanks for the visits ;)

Update 67

Down the Roads/Streets...Chapter 3C - Access Road Part 3


Friday, December 16th, 1966
                           Today on this date ... then:

- 1431 – Henry VI of England is crowned King of France at Notre Dame in Paris.
- 1707 – Last recorded eruption of Mount Fuji in Japan.
- 1770 – Born : Ludwig van Beethoven, German composer.
- 1989 – Died : Lee Van Cleef, American acto.


The last time we stopped in Phlox just about the intersection of Highway 35 and 15, which is going west to Lakestead, today's Capitol City of Simland. As we know, highway 35 is far from finished and the works stopped momentarily at the Ganoga Marsh's entrance. There they are starting to build the immense and long bridge over the marshlands. The cobnstruction site will come back to life on January 9th, 1967, after a 3 week vacation for everyone. That also helps letting pass the rainy/sometimes snowy season that always occurs at this time of the year in the valley.
We however will continue with the Access Road visit.


««" Are you coming with us?" Mike asked Alex Puto, the general Project Manager of the bridgebuilding for highway 35.
"Whereto ?" he asked looking at Mike and John, who joined him to see the final touches of the Grand River bridge in Phlox.
"Hey Buddy, it's 3 o'clock and it's friday....Where do you think we go?" Mike pointed out.
"Nah...I gotta go see someone on Sterling's Island...she's got some mechanical problems with one of her boats." Alex said while tucking in his shirt that was ripped out by the strong winds on the bridge.
Mike laughed indiscretly:" Your girlfriend Katie, you mean?"
" She is NOT my girlfriend, you hear?," Alex made sure that his statement was clear and understood, " she's just someone I got to know lately and she needs my help for now."
"ok, ok....don't shout," Mike looked surprised over his shoulder at John who was looking at the crane bringing in these concrete highway sidewalls, "If you finish early, come see us at Barby's, if not, well have a nice christmas and we will see each other on New Year's Eve then, ok?."
All Alex did was notting his head positively, while he also continued to look at the big crane that was placing the large cement blocks on the side of the highway.

So Mike and John waved the hand at him and descended off the bridge to join the company's pickup at the other end, while holding tightly on the ramp not to get blown away with the strong wind. On the way back John and Mike discussed the matter with Alex a little and his new so called * new friend *, both knew that it was more serious than Puto says and everyone could see it been written in gold on Alex's forehead.»»

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Yes, Alex seems to have found himself a girlfriend. He 's been seeing her for a few months now, ever since the six years younger Katie Panskyy from Frampton has moved to Sterling Island, where she has bought the old harbour that Gabber Inc used to use for landing the materials needed for building the big bridge on the Sterling island. Now she' starting a small boating service buissness and of course Alex being quite a fanatic with boats and stuff, it wasn't long that he came to meet Katie.
Highway 35 gets together with the Access Road and cross the Winding River here for their first time. Hopping over the island of Sterling and then reaching the eastern side of the mighty river where the highway and the Access Road separate again. The temporary Access road bridge was demolished last spring.

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We are still in the Phlox County here. This is also where the private road of Rundi Sterling starts to head right into the Stoke Mountains which belong mostly to the famous billionaire. We have visited this earlier and also saw the location where Sterling wants to build his own castle that he bought in France, dismantled and shipped to Frampton for the moment, where it awaits the long journey by train and heavy-load trucks to Stoke in a year or so. The land standing beside Sterling's 2000 acres is mostly privately owned and many of these forests have been contracted with the Timberlog Inc from Phlox to be cut in the next two years. Sterling is a strict conservationist and always keeping his lands as natural as possible, no way for Terry Slye, the owner of Timberlog Inc to change Sterling's mind and to sell him some logging rights on his vast lands. Mr Slye has been busy on this side of the river to buy as many logging rights as possible, as I said, most of them surrounding or neighboring the many acres of the Billionaire. Although TS (Terry Slye) has loggers all over the valley now and even some in the exterior like Sandom and Bluebay and he doesn't really "need" Sterling's forests, but he is always looking for some profitable logging bargains and as Sterling has many acres with mature trees, Slye is very interested in obtaining them.

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Just at the tiny intersection of the Access Road and the private entrance of the Sterling acres, one can see a small gathering of homes. Some loggers and others have bought small lots and have built their homes on them, so did others from Phlox and Access Junction. With them came a few buissnesses to service this small community which is fully under Phlox's administration. This location does't really have an official name, but everyone knows it by the name of Troy, named after the old man George Troy who is guarding the gate to Sterling's acres and has a small canteen at the intersection to feed the hungry highway and bridge workers as well as the passerby's and the loggers. Troy is in his early seventies, a darkskinned man as we know, who has been working for the Sterling family since his early childhood. Very friendly, calm and generous, George is loved and appreciated by most everyone who got the chance to know him.

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Again it is time for the Access Road to join Highway 35 to cross the Willow Swamps in the next County that we enter. Stoke County covers quite a large area, starting with the Willow Ponds and swamps and crossing the Stoke mountains (which btw belong to Sterling also) right into the Ganoga Wetlands in the east and touching the Winding River twice, in the north and in the south. A good part of Stoke again belongs to our famous Billionaire, Rundi Sterling. No one really knows, not even he himself, exactly how many acres or hectars of land he actually owns in this part of the valley. Stering always talks about a few thousand acres when ever he mentions the Stoke Mountains, but important to some it is, how many thousands. They say that he planted an ironpost on all it's limits some years ago, but nobody ever saw one of these.
The bridge over the Willow swamp was quite a challenge to Alex Puto who was the Project Manager for this contract, as for the other bridges. It was difficult to build on these very unstable wet soils, which used to be a deep lake many thousand years ago. It was a first for Alex and for any other engineer to achieve good results in building a bridge over the big swampy "sponge". Alex seem to have done perfectly, because the bridge is solid. Let's pass some years and see how it will do.
Except for some minor loggings here and there, mostly to clear land for future farms, nothing much is going on in the rest of Stoke for the moment. Maybe it is because of the amount of flies and insects in the warm summermonths that hatch in these wetlands that Sims have more or less stayed away, but as it seems, some sims are resistant to these pesty little beasts or maybe immune.

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This is the boring stretch of the Access Road and Highway 35 through Stoke, nothing but forests and ponds. Almost a year ago, here is where the highwy construction stopped for a month. The governmental administrators were discussing a new possibility of a different direction for highway35. But after long discussions and planning they finally came to an agreement to use the first plan to cross the Mighty River further downriver and go right over the Ganoga Wetlands, even if it is a little longer.
Precious time was wasted her for the Gabber Company there, waiting for two months for the official administrators to decide which direction to take. Now John Gabber has to push everyone to be able to meet his deadline in three years, when the highway is supposed to be connected to the existing highway 35 coming down from the north in the neighboring region.

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Here we enter the extra large county of Ganoga, the biggest btw of the Winding River Valley. These Wetlands have been classified as federal protected lands ever since before the second worldwar. Mostly still undiscovered yet, the Ganoga Marshlands, as officially named, are still unreachable or totally wild. The highway and the Access Road have now reached it's northern limit, waiting to cross these immense parts of water that stretch for more than 3 miles (almost 5 km). From here on it will be easier to reach inside the wetlands.  Island hopping will be the only way to cross the Ganoga discharges with several bridges. The terrain is a little more rockier here than at the Willow Ponds, making it surely easier for the concrete bridgebases to be constructed. This is a very big project, the biggest one for Alex Puto and Gabber Inc yet. It will take a full year to be able to cross the Ganoga marshlands with bridges, even if more than a total of 800 labourers of all trades are on the job, six days a week. Mike Allheimer who is the terrain boss, as they call him, will have quite a time to control these 800 workers.
This project is also the most expensive one on the whole Highway 35 construction. Costs are in the multiple million of §§'s.
We will have many more detailed looks as the construction advances in the future.

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Remember that an extra large and fully detailed map of the Winding River Region, (to see the areas in details), is always available at...

http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/2638/1965windingrivervalleyn.png



That was it for the Access Road subject. We will be back with the regular updates from now on and also talk about our characters. Hope you liked the 3-part visit of the Access Road. If so let's hear it, if not, you can always comment also, I am always open to any opinion.
Now. let's go and find out if the rumours about Tom Kohler are true......hm....

Fred
Have a nice week... ;)

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on April 17, 2011, 08:11:41 PM
I like all the models you're making! keep it up.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on April 18, 2011, 01:43:48 AM
Some wonderful updates there!
Looking forward to more...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 21, 2011, 01:08:36 PM
Thanks danielcote and bat for leaving a comment, much appreciated. ;)

Update 68

The New Year of 1967


Monday, January 9th, 1967
                           Today on this date ... then:

1788 – Connecticut becomes the fifth state to be admitted to the United States.
1431 – Judges' investigations for the trial of Joan of Arc begin in Rouen, France, the seat of the English occupation government.
1894 – New England Telephone and Telegraph installs the first battery-operated telephone switchboard in Lexington, Massachusetts.


Several hundred people were gathered at the new Sportshall of Access Center to hear what Mayor Bartlett had to announce as improvements for 1967.

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««" This will be a good year," Mayor Steven Bartlett announced in the centerhall of the newly opened Gabber Park Sportshall (GPS), surrounded by journalists and the citizens of Access Center, " we have now reached a population of more than 70,000 citizens in Access and new services and improvements of existing services will be needed. But first of all I would like to thank the population of Access Center to have me re-elected last month. I can now continue my plans for the town for the next three years."
Steven Bartlett went through his sheets of paper to find his speech and continued talking mostly about what he and the council has planned for the upcoming year.
Besides a little taxraise for the freshwater supply, all taxes will stay the same for the next 3 years ,he announced, and then he made sure that everyone knew what the administration has achieved in the last year, such as building the hospital...»»

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...the new sportshall on Gabber Park, which is called The Gabber Park Sportshall.

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..and the enlargement of the waste site, which came to its max capacity last August.

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Then he started talking about the new services in the community to come in the next 3 years. First he mentioned the watertreatment plant which is overdue since a long time and it will good for the next 25 years. It will be placed just below the Hydrodam and north of the waste disposal.

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Also he talked about the airport, that will have it's opening date before the end of 1968, and then he continued with many other smaller improvements, such as creating a few small parks intown and more free parking in downtown itself to offer better access for customers of the commercial sectors.

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Other services such building a second elementary school,a radio station, two new open zones for residential construction, a passenger trainstation and 3 more busstations are on his list for 1967, he said, and after a good applause from the public he continued:

««" There's more...we will be encouraging industries with ideal locations and low taxes to come move to Access Center and to supply us with good paying jobs and a stable future for the town. Coca-Cola, Thibold Shoes and Venneer Textiles from the Capitol have already accepted our invitations to install subsidiaries and are moving to Access within the next year bringing us approximately 900 new fulltime jobs.", again the public applaused loudly, but Mr Bartlett held up his hands to quiet the group and said,
"There's one more important thing I'd like to say: It has been accepted that they will come to Access Center, but they haven't yet decided exactly when. It is the Simland Energy Corporation (SEC) from Frampton that has found coal in our southern hills and they will start an open sky mine sometime in the next five years which could bring us up to 4500 jobs. Clearing the land and drying out the craterlake will start early this spring. Now, that's excellent news, right?"
Then Steven opened his arms like offering the town his final words and said: "Have a beautiful New Year now".. and he left the stage with his fellow councellors. The people applaused again loudly before they dispersed and went home. For the second time in Access' history, the event was filmed and shown Live on STV. (Simland Television)»»

««"If he continues like this, he will be wearing two ties soon,"Mike Allheimer, who was present at the meeting, told his wife beside him." I don't like this fellow anymore, he thinks that he is the one who invented Access, not like he used to be." His wife smiled at Mike and said; "You're imagining things, he is still the young charming fellow as before."
"Charming....ha.....I'm surprised you didn't marry him...." Mike said in a low voice while his wife Liza shook her head in disappointment about her husband's remark and then threw back: "I met you before him", leaving agood moment to Mike to digest her last remark and then added, "Besides, ...he's 20 years too young." which left Mike kinda assured, and both drove off to go see where the coal mine will be.»»

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Now, here are 5 pictures of the actual town of Access Center. The first will show the entire town and it's 4 tiles titled from A to D.

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This is tile A, the maintown and where evrything has started, Here is downtown, the industrial Park, the highway 35, the hydrodam etc. Some details have been indicated for reference.

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The next tile, B, is towards Grasslake, on the eastern side of the maintown, a fairly new suburbs of Access.

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Then tile C, just north east of the maintown, leading to the next tile north where the new airport will be. Here lived the first Mayor of Access Center, Paul Hubert from the beginning until 1963. He died earlier last year. His transport company was sold to one of Miss Moarsen's sons.

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And last the tile D, which used to be Valmore North, and now belongs to Access, It has the highway 35, the museum, Barby's Vacation home and a lot of agriculture, which soon will end up in residential zones...etc.

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Now some random pictures of the municipality of Grasslake and the town of Access, they will be explained on the picture itself. Just some things to see how they changed. We will see more about these in later updates.

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As the Mayor stated earlier, a small passenger trainstation will be build near the downtown area first and 2 years later another one in the Valmore sector. This used to be the place where Wormwood Used Cars was, but Harry, the owner, found a better and bigger location uptown, where he is slowly installing himself at this moment. Kohler's Buslines also soon will move to a bigger place not far from here, just north of the Gabber Sportshall.
Since almost a year now, the town is little talking about creating an avenue in Access one day, which will most likely replace the Access Road one day. The only problem is that it will need the room of the rails to be able to expand and that is not going to happen for a long time I guess.

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As we have talked about ,in an earlier update, Miss Moarsen, the widow and present owner of the Moarsen Farms, and which still owns most of the centerterrain lots of the town of Access. She is now in her late sixties and is willing to sell all of her lots within the citylimits for the best offering. It wasn't long that the betting went skyhigh. Many people from outside of town have offered tremendous amounts for the 75 acres of fields and woods attached to the Moarsen Farms. People from around the area also have made an offer, such as Nethaniel Wellington, who is mostly interested to invest some money, Guy Racsan, who is mostly interested in the industrial area of the land and surprisingly Gary Gabber, the brother of John Gabber is thinking of buying ythe land to hopefully make a few extra §'s.
Now it is up to Miss Moarsen to decide which offer to accept. She will be moving to Grasslake away from her farms, where she will spend her life a little less busy and the rest of the farms she will leave in the hands of her oldest son to handle. These terrains present the last of the farmland inside the townlimits of Access. Parts of the lots will be industrial and the other residential. The other farms are still outside the town's limit for the moment, many of a large size and mostly on the other side (east) of highway 35.  The town itself did not make an offer, knowing too well that the amount offered will be beyond it's own financial capacity, but the zoning will be their responsability.

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And at last two more pictures to compare of the region in 1965 and today, on January 4th, 1967. See the changes? A full sized Giant map of 1967, as the 1965 one, will be uploaded at the end of the year.

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You can always find the 1965 giant map here:  http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/2638/1965windingrivervalleyn.png


I wanted to show you some random pictures of the town and region in this update to get back into the story before starting talking about our characters again and continue the updates regularily. In the next update we finally get some news of some of our well known citizens and also some news about the constructions that the town talked about for 1967, which is supposed to be a *Good Year*, as Mayor Bartlett announced.

Another update is coming soon. Have fun reading....

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: marsh on April 22, 2011, 01:02:22 PM
Sigh... I read this cj long ago when it was first starting out. I stopped... I really want to read it again so that I am caught up on the story and actually am more motivated to read current updates, but it seems like so much. :( I hope to get to doing that eventually. Eventually...

,marsh
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 23, 2011, 03:07:20 PM
Quote from: marsh on April 22, 2011, 01:02:22 PM
Sigh... I read this cj long ago when it was first starting out. I stopped... I really want to read it again so that I am caught up on the story and actually am more motivated to read current updates, but it seems like so much. :( I hope to get to doing that eventually. Eventually...

,marsh

For those who haven't read most of this MD lately, there will be some difficulty understanding what's coming up in 3 or 4 updates from here. I have already started slowly here and there talking about the mystery of the Porolium Gas at the army's base and soon there will be more. The next update will come later this week and it will be somehow messing up some things, because.......anyways....

Let me be honest with you, there are actually two stories in one about this region, first the development of the region together with its habitants, including the characters of some of our readers, then the mystery surrounding the armybase, the porolium and the skullhuts they found, and this is a part which will occupy a lot of place in this MD soon. The mystery will become more and more intriguing for the Winding River Valley population.

Thanks marsh for having left a comment. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on April 23, 2011, 05:00:53 PM
Great update! Theres lots in it.  &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: MattyFo on April 24, 2011, 11:12:34 AM
Nice update Fred!  I like how The Winding River Region is really devoloping well and is looking the a realistic region.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on April 27, 2011, 07:43:27 PM
Great update Fred! I like how the city just keeps expanding and getting more populous, great job!

            Your friend,
                            Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 30, 2011, 08:05:04 AM
What a great update!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 03, 2011, 01:34:42 PM
Update 69


Monday, February 20th, 1967
                           Today on this date ... then:

1547 – Edward VI of England is crowned King of England at Westminster Abbey.
1835 – Concepción, Chile is destroyed by an earthquake.
1927 – Born: Sidney Poitier, American actor
1966 – Born: Cindy Crawford, American model
1988 – Born: Rihanna, Barbadian singer
1994 – Died: Burt Lancaster, American actor (b. 1913)


<< "Did you phone Jordi yet?" Charlie asked Diarmuid when he arrived at the small downtown Pub where the small gang often meets. "You know he said that he absolutely wanted to come with us next month and we all have to meet yet and get all the stuff together. Remember that it will not be a simple pic-nic.",he continued.
"I'll do that tomorrow and you better let know Cliff and the Westwood twin......ehhh, what's his name again?" Diarmuid looked at Charlie for help.
"Pat, smallmemo, it's Pat." Charlie responded with a harsh voice."You should train your memory a little, always forgetting everything. I bet you 2 Simoleons that you will forget calling Jordi tomorrow," holding out his hand to Diar, who told Charlie to just shut up and get the beer.>>

Charlie Gabber, John Gabber's youngest son and Diarmuid MacGormain are pals since they were 9 and 10 years old. Both went to highschool together and now to College and have developped since a friendship that's rock solid.
Together with Jordi (Jordan Meaden, the cartographer), Patrick Wormwood (one of the twins) and Cliff Dubold (Andy Dubold's son, former forman of the Highway 35 project when it started) they have planned a 17 day excursion through the Ganoga Wilderness (yellow lines) in the month of May. The reason is simple, to be together and have fun with an adventurous voyage through one of the few lands of Simland still not mapped. Jordan created a temporary map and together with Pat they have figured out the camp bases. (red) It was two weeks ago that Charlie and Jordie fle over the region with Charlie's father. They took a few pictures and created a "Travelmap". Together with Steve Gibson, they also have arranged several "Meetingplaces",(lightblue) where they will meeting up with the hydroplane on a certain day at a location where Steve can waterland. This will enable them to get materials and food needed to go on. It was a condition that John Gabber made simply to know if they're fine. A crankable army CB was also supplied by our veteran from Vietnam, Mike Allheimer.

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They also got the permission from Mr Sterling himself (don't ask me how they did that though) to start off their journey from the Stoke mountain's other side, at the end of the Sterling road that leads right into the heart of his lands.(far left red spot on pic above) Sofar everything seems to be well organized, thanks to Pat Westwood who has thought of most of the details.
Diar, Cliff and Jordi are 18 years old, while Charlie is 17 and Westwood who will be more or less the responsable for the group, 26 yo. It will be fun , they all say.....

Our young writer (journalist of the Access Tribune) Charles M.Johnson heard about their plans, since the whole town is talking about it since a couple of weeks, and he asked them and his boss Joe Bean, the owner of the Tribune, to write a daily story about them in the Access Tribune. He will get in contact with them daily with Mike's CB. Young Johnson even thinks about writing a novel about this one day. He went to see the gang one day and asked for the planned map of their trip. All they had was the picture that Steve Gibson made from his airplane, then without the planned route.

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««"I heard the siren this morning at the armybase, you know something about this?" Mayor Bartlett asked Riichirou Takahaschi when he met him in the entrance hall of the townhall. "I know that you live close to the base, you probably heard it too, right?" Riichirou, who now works for the town full time as the cityplanner and has his office on the first floor answered,
"No Sir, I am here since 7 AM, had some files to get for the new watertreatment plant before I go and get the terrain measured and I haven't heard no siren, but I heard that Kohler was close there this morning, he came to finalize his building permit for the new bushangar about an hour ago and talked about it with the secretary Lise Wend at the taxcounter."
"Thanks Riichi, I was wondering if someone tried to enter the base again like two years ago." Bartlett added before he left to climb the steps to his office on the second floor.»»

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Yes, since last september Riichirou Takahaschi works for the town of Access full time, he will be the responsable for the town's developments as the official city planner. Riichirou lives on the Valmore lake now, where he bought himself a small home on the lake's side. He is the neighbor of Kyle Robert's (Police Chief of Access) weekendhome on the lake.

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Tom Kohler, the owner of Access Taxi and the Kohler Buslines, who used to have his busline headquarters right on the other side of the road of the Access Tribune newspaper. Since the place became too small for his busses, he decided to buy a bigger terrain that became available behind the Gabber Park Sportshall. Here he just finished a new hangers to keep his busses for repair and maitenance and as a surprise to everyone in town, it became evident that he bought the schoolbus company also, and keeps the busses parked at the same place.

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Kohler sold his gasstation to a young fellow from Bluebay and the land behind the store was sold to the town, where they want to build the municipal Garage to keep the town's machinery which are mostly parked in different barns all over town at the moment. They will keep the Garage that Kohler built to maintenance his busses and will simple add another one and a small office. Here's also where they started to clear the land that will hold the new Passenger trainstation.

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In West River the siren blast was explained officially only as a test. Nothing is to worry about, Colonel Meyers announced. A test like this will be heard once every month or so from now on.
Many things have changed on the base, soldiers have been working like ants, the main-office buildings are finished, so are some new hangars. Also the deviation of the river was done and now new walls keep the river from turning through the base' terrain. Eventually the old riverbed will be set dry, drained and filled to gain new space for the army. They say that the airforce will come also one day. On the base there are more than 3000 soldiers stationed now, all working to build up the base. Porolium.....?? Nobody is thinking of it anymore.

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Today a new independant municipality was officially founded, not too far from Access, but may be influental one day for the town and the region of the Winding River. It is called Winding River Outlet, a small town of 1,200 inhabitants or so  and is approximately 122 km (ca 75 miles) eastward from Access on the Revera Sea. The town was build where the Winding River meets the sea (see picture), right over the eastern hills of the Winding River Region. The small map shows the location of the new municiplity that runs along the great islands of the Pitch's Bay.
It might become a strategical connection one day with Bluebay in the south and Frampton in the north, if they will be able to build a highway and rail along the wild eastern shores. Only a road exists since 1934 in these areas which are slowly developping. If Access can connect to that town directly over the mountains, the distance both to Frampton and Bluebay will be amazingly reduced by one third.

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(White framed rectangles on the map above indicate the regions that I am currently playing with. There will be a whole update to all the regions soon here. I will show all the regions and all the cities and towns that we talk about in this MD/CJ.)

Back in Access Center, it was the day of Public racing on Racsan's Raceway. People from different regions were present to see the opening of the raceway. It was free for all today.

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Bagsfull of fresh food was found this morning on the garbage disposal site. Where did it come from? What a waste! The Police was asked to make a small investigation to find out the reason of wasting this fresh merchandise and where it came from.

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Also today, some complaints were filed from the suburb residents for the chainsaw and the heavy machinery noise that invaded this neighborhood to cut down the last forest standing inside the town's limit. Soon many homes will be build here. Mayor Bartlett promissed the citizens that the noise will be only for one more week, giving the workers a chance to clear the land.
Strikers for the first time in Access' history were seen on the small road that goes through the wooded land, complaining of cutting the last "Green" in town. Environmentalists, they say they are....hm...never heard of them before.

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The second elementary school in Access that the Mayor promissed, didn't take time to get build. Less than three month and the doors were opened behind the old shopping center.

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Well, that was it again, hope you liked it. If you read it and like this to continue, leave a small comment, it only takes a minute and helps me to continue the story with enthusiasm. Thanks. Have a nice week.

The next time we visit the Ganoga bridges again and maybe are about to solve a mystery concerning the army. Mike found a newly written book from someone that got killed only a few months ago....connection? What's in that book that left Mike speechless? ....next week, or maybe this weekend.


Fred ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Reikhardt on May 04, 2011, 12:29:48 PM
Great update, a lovely town!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on May 05, 2011, 02:56:34 AM
Nice story and wonderful pictures! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on May 06, 2011, 09:44:25 AM
Another great update, which is expected from you :)

The story continues to develop, and it is a joy to read it every update.

How is Johnny B. Badd doing?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 06, 2011, 09:48:35 PM
Thanks folks, glad that there are still some followers. I will have another update soon, not htis weekend though, sorry.
Johnny B.Badd will be in the next update, so is Michael Arven, Wormwood and Vito.

The next three updates will be somewhat mysterious, the story will even get somehow confusing. Hope you will like the tension.... ;)

Have a nice weekend

Fred ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 07, 2011, 09:03:43 PM
I have been continuing to work on my utility models again. This time it will be a water treatment plant and it will be a modular set with several add-ons to come. The water treatment plant itself already exists, but uniquely on the last STEX CD. (I can't find a suitable picture of it right now)
I will take the same model and do some more detailed modeling and refined texturing on it. It will be the base set, let's say. Then add-ons will come with time.

Below are two of the add-ons that I am working on at the moment.
The first one is a water outlet to be placed near a river or lake, which can be connected with the tanks or the mainbuidling. Hopefully I will be able to place it partially in the water, so that the pipes' ends are somewhat submerged.
Still some modeling and details to do, also textures are to be refined. There will be a ladder on one side and two pillars that will support the "cement block" in the water.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg405.imageshack.us%2Fimg405%2F1226%2Fwatertreatmentacc1a.jpg&hash=eabbee2400e0c724f25e841229c720905772b1a9)

The second one is more of a very big rivercrossing pipe, it will waterploppable, but the pipe will be above water. I still have to create the connections on ground on each side, some more details (electrical wirings etc)  and maybe also refine the textures. It should be on a 4x1 or 5x1 lot.

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Ideas and comments are always welcome.

Fred

EDIT: Btw, I will also be busy doing some "Holland farmprops" for FrankU, maybe my first Nexis Prop pack.
You can see his farmworks here:

http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=9146.msg376699










Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on May 08, 2011, 12:15:39 PM
Hi Fred,

Your BAtting is beautiful! Thanks also for the publicity for my lot thread.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 12, 2011, 08:02:28 AM
Quote from: FrankU on May 08, 2011, 12:15:39 PM
Your BAtting is beautiful! Thanks also for the publicity for my lot thread.


Thanks Frank, and no problem for the publicity of your thread, much worth having a look at. ;)





Update 70


Friday, March 6th, 1967
                           Today on this date ... then:

1899 – Bayer registers aspirin as a trademark.
1992 – Michelangelo computer virus begins to affect computers.
1836 – Died: Davy Crockett, American frontiersman (b. 1786)


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True, that the army base in West River has now a security system so sophisticated that not even a dragonfly would be able to enter the base withoput getting noticed. Only a small part of the base is open to the public and even then, one must have an important cause on hands to get through Gate Number 1. At the 2nd gate one needs a special permit to go on and at the doors of each building , only with a pass from the government itself you're allowed to enter. To get into the twintowers, well.......just forget it, only a handful of people have acces to this.

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«« "Hmmm.... this is getting interesting," Mike Allheimer is thinking while reading this information above in a book that was written by a writer in Bluebay." I have to show this to John and all the others, maybe now they will believe me that I have always thought that there was something "fishy" about the army invading the West River so quickly three years ago."»»

Many things were said in the book, many with propositions, ideas and logical explanations and also some pictures, some of them from the base and the small rockhuts, but also a lot of speculations and maybe imagination were added. But everything was making sense to Mike now, having read this small booklet of only 300 pages.

Dropping the book on the desk of John Gabber's office in Frampton the next morning, Mike said to John:
««" You always have doubted me John, have a look at this and we'll talk about next friday at Barby's in Access, ok?"
John looked at the title *The 20,000 year old invasion of the Winding River Region* written by Gerry Hevlier, 1966 and looked at Mike, "Where the heck did you get that from? Gerry Hevlier was killed last week in Lakefield in a car accident."
"Read it and I'll tell you, it's not on the market, it was seized before it became public by the Simland Internal Protection Agency.(SIPA) Imagine.....just a few days before Gerry died," Mike told, "Coincidence???".
"Ok, I'll read it." John said with a worrying face looking at Mike and at the small book."I hope that this ain't a simple stupid idea from someone who wants to become famous quickly."
"Nodding positively his head Mike said, "Just read it, ok?"
"ok." »»...and Mike went back to Access.

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It is Monday in Access and all over one half of the world's territory. In the town most people are starting their week. So is Johnny B.Badd who bought himself an appartment block near downtown. It is most likely bought with illegal made money, but who knows...Johnny's buissness in Access is blooming, more people immigrating to both Access and Phlox, more drugs to sell and more income to cash in. Badd now has 3 Vendors in these two towns and still has the farmfield in Grasslakes with two more of his workers. We all know that he started a laundry buissness also in Access some time ago to launder his unlegal money and hide the excess income of his. He had to enlargen his commerce a little bit and hired two more people to occupy the Laundryshop. This is good for the town's economy he thinks, creating four jobs and maybe more to come. He is surprised though that his laundry shop seems to be working perfectly and more than expected income from the laundry is making Johnny nervous.

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In Grasslake the politicians finally have been aggreed upon and as of June the 1st, 1967, Grasslake will become an independant municipality and will not be ruled over by the Lakestead County anymore. Grasslake's first Mayor was already elected and it is Tony Racsan who became it's history's first. Tony is the father of Guy Racsan, the one we know of as the former owner of Racsan Motors and Jetengins. Tony who is retired from Kent Engineering Co and Kent-Triton since 1961, lives everysince in Grasslake, where he owns an immense territory of land and all the most northern part of the lake. Tony is now 72 years old, but still in good condition and working his lands everyday. He is also one of the first members of the GEPS, the "Grasslake Environment Protection Society", which was formed 3 years ago and is there to protect the natural environment surrounding the lake, making him one of the founders.

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Yesterday was probably the greatest day for Michael Arven so far, who finally finished his studies and was inaugerated into the Betzlinger Architects Offices in Frampton. As they will build a new regional office soon in Access Center, Michael will be able to return to his favourite town, making himself home in Access again. He of course loves Frampton where he was born and was raised with his father who is an accountant, and his Nanny Lizzy and where he studied architecture in the College of Frampton. Now soon to be on his own at 21 years of age, Arven can't wait to enter the world of Betzlinger Office of Architecture and show the world what he can do. The temporary office is situated in a small building (former dentistry) on Mainstreet for the time it may take to construct the new office near the Museum.

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Young Arven is fan of Parkour skating since his childhood, his dream to master the double Kong has been kind of fanatic to him. Finding the perfect place for it in the town of Access, he spents most of his free time there. He is already kind of famous in Access, mostly in Grasslake, for the house plans that he has designed for Allheimer, Racsan and Gabber and some other wealthier families on the lake and in town. This is something the Betzlinger office knew and took avantage of to place him in Access.

Harry Wormwood finally got his new Cardealership build. He is now on the southern end of town with a bigger place, a new office, a small garage, but only a few used cars. He spent most of money recuperated from the old site to build the new buildings and pay for the terrain, which didn't come cheap either. Now he has to find a way to finance the cars and inventory. He also would like to offer some mechanical services, since Access has only very few mechanic's services available at the moment. Too much in debts, he won't be able to offer these services much for now, but one thing for sure, it will happen one day. More and more often Johnny B. Badd is showing up at his place, wonder why....have they become friends?
Harry and his wife Maria Torregrossa are both working on the site. He as the owner and the salesman and mechanic and she as the secretary and accountant. Their 3 year old son Aldo also spents a few days in the office, playing of course.

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A big fellow in his early thirties arrived this week in Access Center, having bought himself a new home, quite a nice place I must say, near the town's Police station. Vito Scaletta is an italian born aviation engineer from Frampton. He was hired by the Access Airport Commision and Racsan Jetengines for his services as an engineer. He also will have his own office at the newly build airport, where he will work. Vito still has a strong italian accent and it didn't take long that the town got to talk about him. The 6ft4 man with his black curly hair and bulky statue is not someone easily missed, especially showing up at Barby's Pub every night after working hours, staying for a drink or two at the bar.

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At the Ganoga wetlands, the bridgebuilding is slowly moving forward, having reached its first island. Alex Puto is busier than ever, taking care of the bridge's management and his new girlfriend in Phlox at the same time. Not showing up as often as before at the Biergarten on friday's afternoon with the gang anymore, he bought himself a boat now, which is stationed at his girlfriend's Boatservice on the Phlox island.
The bridge will be finished before time, they have estimated, which is quite pleasing to John Gabber and his office. If he finishes before time, Alex will be offered a raise by Gabber Inc, that is what privately John told to his friend Mike Allheimer the other day.

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A small gravel road was created to access to upper lands of the Ganoga wilderness, the very first time that someone has access to the area by road. Some natural ressource speculators from outside the regions have investigated in this road it seems, some to find oil, others to find coal or other minerals, but for certain we only know that partially it is a governmental project. Iron core was expected to be found in the winding river valley many years ago, but none have yet been located. Of course any excellent find of ressources could mean the end of the wilderness refuge as many naturefans fear. Many people already have voted against the speculations of the area, but ressources are needed, are important and gives the Nation a financial boost. They say, **it is good for the economy. So what if the Ganoga disappears, there's other places like this all over Simland**.
I wonder if they will say that in twenty or thirty years from now without getting shot by someone.

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And finally at 3:45 AM last morning a very loud crash was heart all over the valley. Some folks have seen a fireball falling from the sky behind the Stoke mountains and saw a yellowish light over the Stoke mountains, Some even said that an airplane crashed inside the Ganoga wilderness. But it was actually a small meteor that came down and hit the forest near some small hills just outside the Ganoga Wilderness in the Milton County. Early this morning Steve Gibson was delivering a few scientists to the site with his new helicopter, and soon after they brought back a small rock for further inspection. It seemed like the rock was the size of a house when it came down, but actually it was only a little bigger than a domestic washing machine or dryer. The damage of the impact though was considerate and even the forest caught on fire temporarily, but the humidity in the last days coming from pourring rain killed the fire quickly.
The studying of the rock will continue at the Lakestead Laboratories in the University.

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Well, that was it again, another update. The next time the story of the booklet will continue, making too much sense to some and no sense to others, creating a deep canyon between the group that always gathers at Barby's on fridays. Also we hear about the preparing of the trip through Ganoga the boys are planning and an Access center's Police officer who got killed during a shootout in downtown.
Thanks for commenting.

Fred ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on May 12, 2011, 12:32:27 PM
Another awesome update!

Johnny B. Badd is starting to grow it seems, and he seems to be making some wise investments, getting himself a really nice apartment. I like that he has started a laundry business, too. He seems to be an astute businessman!

A meteor, eh? I must say you have me very, very intrigued.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: scott1964 on May 12, 2011, 04:19:53 PM
Nice update. Where is Paul Donovon these days?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on May 13, 2011, 06:52:27 PM
Nice update Fred. I particularly like the story and pictures surrounding the meteor. You always have an eye for detail in your pictures, and the burnt trees and varying shades of scorched rock make a convincing crash site. Looking forward to the new developments.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on May 14, 2011, 07:10:47 AM
Very nice updates, there seems to be alot going on around Access. As always, great storyline :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 14, 2011, 07:46:01 AM

Thanks guys for dropping by, appreciated. ;)

There will be some more interesting adventures and going-ons in the next update, working on it att his moment. I also am creating some more new BATs.

Quote from: scott1964 on May 12, 2011, 04:19:53 PM
Nice update. Where is Paul Donovon these days?

Donovan will be in the next update, so will be Wellington, Badger, Kohler and Slye. Someone will die......sorry.


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on May 14, 2011, 10:39:13 PM
Wow, what twists...!  Things seem like they're rolling along and there's some normalcy... and then stuff starts falling from the sky!   :-\

Great update, can't wait to read more!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on May 15, 2011, 07:18:36 AM
The mayor of Winding River admitted today that the meteor strike in the remote areas of Milton County was a staged event to promote tourism. "We were hoping to construct the Maxis Tourist Trap reward and charge Sims to see the site" said Mayor B. "We're now looking for other ideas to raise funds". 

"I wish they would have staged the event closer to my house" says local resident Albert Flanders. "I would have opened a lemonade stand at the road".

Betty Key is taking the news in stride. "Why be so down and out about the hoax? Can't I just take my grand kids to the site and just enjoy the hole in the ground for what it isn't?"
 
Harold Walker isn't amused. "It makes you wonder what other ruses those dastardly politicians are trying to pull on us."



Good Luck with the meteor, Fred


- Jim
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on May 15, 2011, 07:48:15 AM
Great work on another wonderful update! :thumbsup:
Looking forward to the next one...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on May 15, 2011, 10:52:45 AM
Wow. I disappear for a while, and everything seems to happen while I'm away. Looking good so far, Fred. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 16, 2011, 02:11:36 PM
Thanks guys, I kinda got worried there a little not having had many comments on my last updates. Great to see ya all again.
Jim, great *Add-on* to the story. ;)


Here's a little update on my current BATting, Paul Donovan's new Warehouse Outlet in Access, Special on Tools! ;)

Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg687.imageshack.us%2Fimg687%2F1826%2Fdonovans1.jpg&hash=f9988859d370b7c991c13c2ecc75eba7792e3279)

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Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on May 17, 2011, 07:10:08 PM
Love the building :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on May 18, 2011, 01:45:56 AM
There can't be enough of this kind of warehouses. The industrial areas I know of are stacked with these kinds of nondescript buildings. Nice Batting!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on May 20, 2011, 02:30:29 PM
These last updates have just been great! I especially love the warehouse. ;) &apls Keep it up Fred.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on May 25, 2011, 03:42:04 PM
Cool warehouse!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on May 27, 2011, 04:00:48 PM
That warehouse looks great. Is it on the exchange? ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 29, 2011, 08:24:37 AM
Thanks for the comments of the warehouse. I don't know if I should upload it, because it is not 100% of my own work. I downloaded a nontextured simple model that I heavily modified and changed to my liking, because I needed such a building quickly for this update and I couldn't find the time to start mine from scratch. Anyways, I might and explain it in the description....should I ?

Ok, here's another update of the WRP.


Update 71
             


Friday, April 6th, 1967
                           Today on this date ... then:

1853 – The first passenger rail opens in India, from Bori Bunder, Bombay to Thane.
1972 – Apollo program: The launch of Apollo 16 from Cape Canaveral, Florida.
1889 – Birth of Charlie Chaplin, English actor and filmmaker (d. 1977)
1921 – Birth of Peter Ustinov, English actor (d. 2004)
2002 - Death of Robert Urich, American actor (b. 1946)





«« "It's all underground, he said a week before he had his accident," Steve Gibson told John Gabber when they all met at Barby's Biergarten on april 16th, " I would have never thought that he would die the week after. He was talking about some documents and plans that he found on the trashsite and that were showing things about the long and deep underground passways at the army's base and that the two towers are there to get down there, it's like the inside of a dome below ground he said and it's the size of almost a whole town and that it reaches underneath the river and that's why they cut off the river upstream."
"Size of a town? But what about the Porolium gaz that is supposed to be leaking around the area?" John asked while Mike Allheimer and Alex Puto were all eyes and ears listening to what Gibson had to say.
"I only know that he told me that the whole Porolium gaz was just an excuse to build all these buildings there and keep the public away from the site. There is no Porolium in that area at all said Gerry Hevlier and he told me that everything is explained in his book. Remember the two bodies of the highway workers that were found nearby?...Well, they were also just an excuse, Hevlier told me, a simple hoax and make believe of the government, to hide the findings of something I don't know what underground. "
"So when you asked Gerry where he got all his information from, he said that it was all from the papers he found at the dumb in West River? Why would they throw such precious and secret papers away at a small dump like this instead of destroying them right there at the base?" Mike asked.
"That I don't know, Hevrier only told me that he got all his knowledge from these documents taht were hidden up in some foodbags and that he has them hidden somewhere with his book, but I don't know where though. When he died in that accident, which by the way I doubt that it actually was an accident, the SBI (Simland Bureau of Investigations) had his home turned upside down within the hour, I heard from that soldier fellow that sells all the veggies and fruits on Phlox Island, forgot his name hm......" and Steve tried to remember while rubbing his forehead.
"You mean Greg Badger, right? " John interupted his concentration.
"Yeah Badger... that's him", Gibson remembered.
"He came to see me and asked earlier this week if I knew  what the SBI had to do with Gerry Hevrier, because he knew that I talked to Gerry once in awhile. Badger didn't know yet at that time, that Gerry was killed in that mysterious car accident in Sandom. I also bluntly asked Gregory if he knows something about the towers at the base and he told me that it needs special admission passes to get in there and no one outside knows exaclty what they are for neither. See......even their own dare kept in the dark."
"This is getting weirder and weirder with time", Mike sighed in a low voice and looking into the emptyness of the room. "I don't know if we should go further with this or just leave everything as is. To be honest, I don't feel like having an accident also.", and he looked greatly worried at John Gabber, Alex Puto and Steve Gibson in Barby's Biergarten, where they have met this friday afternoon again.
"This surely is much bigger than I thought", John could only add while nodding his head positively and ordering another round for the group.»»

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Near the town of Access the sun was up only since 10 minutes when young Charlie and his friend Diarmuid packed some things that they will need for their trip through the Ganoga Wilderness next month. Both had tried out the american indian tent that they got from a garage sale earlier this spring in Grasslake and have set it up near the property that Charlie's father John bought some 10 years ago on the West River close to the Winding River. The nights are still cool and both started a fire to warm up and get some hot tea boiling that Diarmuid brought along.
All five are ready to go, the date has been set and it is on June 3rd that they will officially leave for the wilderness trip through the Ganoga unmapped lands.

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In Access Center it is the public grand opening of Donovan's new Renovation Center. Paul has ordered to sweep the parking clean and the entrance to welcome the public at noon. He is waiting personally for quite a lot of people, because his opening sale is the biggest yet seen in Simland concerning building materials and tool, and since it is springtime, many Sims are starting their planned renovations for the summer.Having been promoted since earlier this month and selling every tool at 50% off and every building material at 40 % off should be an excellent bait to bring in hundreds of handymen . *Hope that this week will pay a part of the new building* he said to his folks, knowing that it already was largely paid for with the army. By the end of this weekend, Donovan should have sold most of his inventory and be ready to re-stock for the summer.

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Not far from there the airport is near the finishing point. The forest has been cut and leveling is about to end. While most of the terrain will end up in maintained fields for future use and construction, one runway is finished and already active with one passenger flight terminal, one cargo space and receiving/shipping terminal , a refuiling station and maintenance area and an military-only section.
A few hundred acres more were used and cleared for the airport terrains, but it will be used to expand with future needs.

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Of course other buildings are still in the construction, such as the offices, a second smaller airstrip for private planes and a Parking for cars. Kohler buslines will have a station here also and his wife, who is still running the Kohler Taxiservice , will have a stand near the passenger terminal.
Even Guy Racsan is planning to open his jetengin factory here and sell the olderone near downtown to another industry's need of a building.
The construction of the airport will have taken about 2 and a halfyears to construct, which is 10 months faster than expected, but has cost as much as anticipated. The cost is in the 7 digits and now the town has to find the partial amount they planned to pay the airport. Remember that the government paid 70% of the costs.

71.05
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Back in downtown, the shopping center came up for sale and since a Company in Beecherfalls is ready to invest a lot of money into building a new mall near the highway on the large terrain which has been cleared for several commercial centers by the town within the next months, the old one will be bulldozed down to open up a large space in the middle of town. The terrain was purchased by a company in Bluebay, which already owns a few commercial office buildings in the area, such as the gouvernment offices just on the other side of the street.
Here they will probably build more office buildings, something that the town needs more and more of and is quite a revenu egg.
Also the Co-Op building will disappear from downtown and a few other buildings nearby, ones of the few older buildings still standing. The town has bought the terrain to build its first courthouse on the Co-Op terrain. There will be law in town from next year on, instead going down to Bluebay eachtime a fellow wants to go to court with his neighbor for having seeded his lawn with daisies.

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Where once the Kohler buslines and the Wormwood car sales were, we find today the municipal garage and a first passenger trainstation of the Winding River Valley. Although no passenger trains are running through town at the moment, they will come later this year. From here, people will be able to travel faster to Bluebay in the south and to Lakestead in the west four times daily. The SNR (Simland National Railways) has offered this service for one full year of experimentation and will decide after if or if not it will be profitable enough to keep the service running.
The former 24hr store and gazstation will continue to run without the bus service that has moved southward in town. A small busstop will though be available just beside it to make a connection with the trainroute.

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And the last picture for today shows finally the end of construction of the new watertreatment plant down at the dam in Access Center. Promissed by the mayor himself that it would be finished by the midyear, the watertreatment plant went into function today pumping thousands of gallons of used waters into the tanks everydayinstead of dumping the wastes into the small river that already has known as the "deadriver".
They say that the plant will be doing its job up to 150,000 citizens in the future. The town of Access has today almost 75,000, exactly half of what the tanks can handle. This is one step further into a well organized town. Mayor Bartlett is proud of his work and so are most of the citizens.
This of course pleases very much Robert Yome, the amateur environmentalist. Robert has been watching carefully this project because his first Ace card to get Mayor «Bartlett of his officeseat. Yome is more and more implicated into the environment and has started a new organization of people that will once form a powerful societygroup. Some of his members we already know, such as Charlie Gabber and his friend Diarmuid, Gregory Badger, Riichirou Takahaschi and the most powerful citizens of them all, Rundi Sterling.

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That's it again, now I will go back to BATting the Holland farmproppack for FrankU. I will be back in less than a week, time enough for you all to leave some comments. Have a nice weekend. Thanks

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on May 29, 2011, 08:45:36 AM
Another great update, Fred :)

The story continues to progress, and its always a fantastic read.

A town underground? Wow, I wonder what it could possibly mean, and I also wonder why such huge towers just to go down some tunnels!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on May 30, 2011, 11:52:37 AM
Is Donavon's Store up for DL?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 30, 2011, 07:32:25 PM
Thanks for your comment, nedalezz.

Quote from: NASCAR_Guy on May 30, 2011, 11:52:37 AM
Is Donavon's Store up for DL?

No.


You would like it? Pm me with your e-mail address. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on May 30, 2011, 10:42:52 PM
Nice to see the airport taking shape. I couldn't help but notice the military extension too. The only thing I see missing is parking, but I may have overlooked it. Nice development that's going on. The progress seems fairly realistic. Nice work as always.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 31, 2011, 07:23:54 AM
Quote from: threestooges on May 30, 2011, 10:42:52 PM
Nice to see the airport taking shape. I couldn't help but notice the military extension too. The only thing I see missing is parking, but I may have overlooked it. Nice development that's going on. The progress seems fairly realistic. Nice work as always.
-Matt


Parking?...Oh yeah, you're right..... Well, I mentioned it in the story, just under pic 71.04 that other buildings and constructions are yet not finished and are under construction, including the parking. For now only, there will be a parking just above the Passenger Terminal on pic 71.05, where the brown groundcover is. It will not be big in the beginning, but room for an expansion will be available as the airport slowly grows with the town.
Thanks for commenting, Matt.


Here's a little look into the future of Access Center, maybe only two years from now......

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Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on June 02, 2011, 02:39:43 PM
Speaking of downloads, will the lumber mills ever be uploaded? I have a lot of cities and rural areas that need some kind of industry, and there really aren't a lot of sawmills anywhere.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on June 03, 2011, 05:07:20 AM
Nice new updates!
Fantastic pictures, too. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 03, 2011, 11:42:28 AM
Thanks bat for dropping in and leaving a comment.


Quote from: frostwolf on June 02, 2011, 02:39:43 PM
Speaking of downloads, will the lumber mills ever be uploaded? I have a lot of cities and rural areas that need some kind of industry, and there really aren't a lot of sawmills anywhere.

Well, hard to say....I'm not a specialist of making these lots fully work and usefull and I have so many that I would like to upload, but don't feel right asking too often for someone to help. The ones I used are on Park lots and if you want them, let me know (PM) with your e-mail address and I will send them to you.
These are composed of several lots, mostly parks, but there's one on a windmill lot that produces the power and another one is a LM.

I will be back later this weekend with another update.

Fred


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on June 05, 2011, 09:01:30 AM
Nice job! The town is really growing.  &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on June 05, 2011, 06:13:41 PM
Underground cavern the size of a city, huh...?

Can't wait to see what happens!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on June 08, 2011, 07:28:47 AM
Ooh, very nice!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 10, 2011, 05:17:19 AM
Thanks guys.

There will be definitively an update later this weekend. The story must go on. ;)

Meanwhile I am working with gmax on some farm props for my soon to come out Nexis Farmprop-pack Vol1. Working partially together with FrankU for his farmsets, I have decided to create some props that might come in handy to get more variations in farms.
Sofar I have started a little over 25 models and almost finished two(only some minor adjustments needed), which I 've shown below. FrankU might use some of these for his staged farmlots (his thread: http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=9146.160 ), but I also will use them in my MD and eventually have some of them uploaded as Nexis lots.

Fred

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Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 11, 2011, 09:54:49 PM
Ok now, here are some more models for the Nexis Farmprop pack.
First the drive-in opensky silos in three different versions to add diversity to the lots. One with a black tarp, one with a blue tarp, less filled and one empty one, like in early spring.
These models are or are close to be finished.

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And some manure pits. These are the round sets. Four different models and different sizes to add variety to the farms, good to use as families.

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For the next part I will create some hayshacks and rectangular manure pits and machinery sheds.
Hope you like them and hopefully that they will be usefull.

All these will be given to FrankU first to create his lots. Then I might do some lots with new farmbats (barns and stables etc)  later. I was thinking about creating Modern Farms that we see here in Northern America often. Dairyfarms, beefcattle farms, chicken and turkey farms, Pig and sheep farms and some horse stables, but nothing that we have seen already and only very modern installations, just like the pictures below. These seem to be missing in the game.
I live in Québec/Canada and the area here contains some of the most modern farms in North America. I will take some pictures of them soon, including my own (beefcattle), which isn't too modern, but only 17 years old, and then show them here. I may create some of them. Example: we have a pigfarm a couple of miles from us which contain some 2000 pigs, quite impressive (over 200 ft long), and the buildings are only three years old. The whole installation cost more than 2 Million Cdn $. Interested?

Fred

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Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 12, 2011, 11:45:09 AM
Before I start posting as a loner in this thread, we could use some commenters, so many lurkers here (I can tell by the hundreds of views within a week), it would be nice to hear from one or two of them...... ???



Update 72
             


Saturday, June 3rd, 1967
                           Today on this date ... then:


1620 – Construction of the oldest stone church in French North America, Notre-Dame-des-Anges, begins in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
1665 – James Stuart, Duke of York (later to become King James II of England) defeats the Dutch fleet off the coast of Lowestoft.
1889 – The coast to coast Canadian Pacific Railway is completed.
1925 – Born: Tony Curtis, American actor (d. 2010)
2001 – Died: Anthony Quinn, Mexican-born actor (b. 1915)





A still fairly cold morning did not stop the young men from beginning their trip through the Ganoga Wilderness. Charlie Gabber, Diarmuid MacGormain, Patrick Westwood, Cliff Dubold and Jordan Meaden met at the Sterling's gate near the Troy's house at precisely 8 AM this morning, ready to undertake their first journey into the unknown. The private lands of Rundi Sterling were offered to travel through to get closer to the Ganoga wilderness and swamps. Troy, the guardian of these several thousands of acres, waited for them to arrive at the gate and to give them a lift in his truck to the top of the Stoke mountain, where the actual trip for the boys will begin.

72.01
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Driving up the gravel road is a charm with this 6-wheeldrive even if the road hasn't been cared for in the last 8 months and damage from rain and water and dead fallen trees could be found everywhere. This road leads to the very top of the Stoke mountain, where Sterling has prepared the terrain to receive his imported castle one day. Now the castle waits in the Frampton harbour in tens of thousands of pieces, only to be delivered by train down to Phlox and from where it will be transported to the mountain by trucks, piece by piece.
From the top of the Stoke mountain, the road continues a few miles downhill into the eastern direction towards the Ganoga wilderness reserve and that is where they are going. There the gang will be dropped off, because the condition of the continuing woodtrail hasn't been checked for over 3 years. They will be able to get to the beaverpond, Troy told the kids while driving over the bumpiness of the hillroad and from there on they will be on their own.

72.02
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Troy's old armytruck did the job well, having brought the group to the final destination at around 10 AM. The road stops almost in the beaverpond, making it impossible to continue.
All exited to be at their starting point, they jumped out of the truck and started unloading their equipment. Troy, who is now in his mid-seventies only watched them, while explaining some of the things that they should seriously consider while going through these forests and swamps. George knows the terrain well and made sure that they understood the direction to take to get off the mountain without being forced later to climb back up and detour the steep cliffs that are ahead of them. Also George made sure that they understood not using their radio for the fun and burn down the batteries. Only for emergency he said.
It was understood that the young men would spend their first two nights right here at the end of the road before going downhill and meet the borders of the Ganoga Reserve. Everything they brought along will be thoroughly tested here first.

72.03
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Elsewhere in the valley of the Winding River, things have been going smoothly, considering the cold season they're experiencing this year. May and June have been cold so far, unusually colder than in the last ten years. It is only starting to get warmer during the day, while the farmers are impatiently awaiting the summerheat to warm up the soil and encourage their crops to grow. For others it is perfect weather since the cool temperatures will keep the lumber fresh and from spoiling that TS Slye has been piling up at his sawmill. Freshly cut logs will heat up quickly if not cooled with water during the hot days and encourage the rottening of the wood, which will leave unwanted marks in the grain of the planks, besides weakening the solidity of the wood itself. The lumber has to dry off slowly to be of the best quality. Slye is overloaded these days, not knowing where to turn his head. Farmers have been ravaging the forests in the region during the winter to create more cropfields and at a 300 % rate compared to the years before.
With the subsidies the farmers get from the government to encourage farming, the business of land cultivation has become a priority in the valley it seems, and now the sawmill's terrain is packed up to its maximum with lumber from all directions. Although the timbercutting is being done in 3 working-shifts all day and night, logs come in faster than they leave in planks. A trainload full is cut almost every 36 hours.
Slye makes a lot of "bacon" (§) these days and surprisingly he just finished paying off all his debts with Gabber and the bank. Now it's time to make real money, he told his friends.

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Even in Lakestead at the maintrainstation, the wood is being piled up beyond its capacity. Excellent for the economy, some say, more workers are busy and many new ones have been hired in the floor, furniture and construction businesses. Manufacturies have been built in Lakestead and Beecherfalls to meet the needs of the society, which is strongly growing in Simland's Nation. And even Access Center will soon have its first woodindustry soon.  A big furniture manufacturer wants to install itself in Access in the next year, offering another 600 to 700 jobs for the region. Below in the picture at the main trainstation in the Capitol City, we can clearly see that wood is number one production in these days.

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Back in Access Center, the main town in the Winding River Region, almost all of the land lots around the Fingerlake have been sold for residential zones and many have already started building their new homes. Not far from downtown Access, these lots were largely welcomed by many buyers, offering a highly isolated area from the town within a short distance of it and with it, a wonderfull view of the Fingerlake. Only a narrow band of land around the lake will be considered to be conserved for natural habitat, as Mayor Bartlett mentioned, but also because it will be difficult to build anything on these abrupt cliffs.

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Some parts of the steep hills have even been reinforced to be able to build on top and use the most out of the land possible. Boats have also invaded the small lake where the drinking water for the town comes from. What will this look and taste like in the coming 20 years.....some are wondering. But life seems to be wonderful and pollution of any kind is not really a big worry at the moment, as long as everyone gets its share of wealth and the perfect spot to live these days. Bartlett told the public that they will worry about the pollution, once it is evident, not really agreed with by the conservation group.

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All this constant building of course is being critized by parts of the public, slowly awakening to the fact that the town is eating away their heritage of forests, lakes, creeks, hills and wildlife. The group that Robert Yome has founded earlier and which is now officially called WRECS (Winding River Environment Conservation Society), is clearly protesting the diminishing of the forests to make room for these new suburbs, especially around the lake that supplies the town with power and water. It seems to be too late though. The deals were signed and the land is ready to receive the people. Constructions have begun.
Mayor Bartlett has heard them out though, making sure to keep his reputation of a good mayor, and with a small briefing with this group, he explained the facts that there will be no changes to his plans at all and environment will not be harmed by doing so. "A town that does not grow anymore is dying off", he says and development sometimes tosses the environment over a little, which is simply necessary for the economy of the town and its population. Bartlett made sure not to give too much time for the group to explain itself and make their point and the meeting was sweet and short and kept away from the public ears.
From another arial view of the area, we can see the yellow-outlined terrains that are zoned for residential use and Which will leave only quite a small amount to keep the lake natural looking. Maybe this will also have an important impact on the waterquality one day, Robert Yome tried to explain the municipal council, which gave no comment on his remark.

72.10
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Another big problem, but of a complete different matter that has arisen for the towncouncil to solve, is the rush-hour traffic in town, which is getting heavier and heavier with each month. The streets between the industrial Park and the town are now being fully "packed" with cars and trucks during certain hours of the day. Some are even starting using the gravelroads as detours to avoid the dense traffic on the mainstreets in the morning and evening.

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The same problem occurs at the town's exit towards Sandom. Cars blocking the streets twice a day at a certain time. The mayor does not really have an instant solution at the moment, but is seriously considering to talk this over with Tom Kohler, the Busline owner, who might have a solution to unblock the streets a little with strategically placed busstations. It might help, if not some more serious planning will have to be asked for to professional Cityplanners of the bigger cities. Maybe a roundabout at this location will ease up the traffic a little?

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Far out of the central town the situation is better though. In the Valmore part of Access, traffic is still acceptable, especially near the refuge that Miss Barby built herself for vacationers. Barby is about to retire from her Biergarten Pub in downtown and will only take care of her Vacation Ressort Hotel on Lake Valmore in the futur. She had enough of the busy times at the Pub and brought the place up for sale. It will be expensive, she says, but it is a busy place that will pay itself off within a short time, knowing quite well that this is a chicken laying golden eggs. True, the location is ideal and on every weekend the pub is overfilled and that all year 'round.
Barby, born in 1912 and now in her mid fifites, wants to take it a "little easier on herself" from now on. Her Vacation Ressort at the lake brings enough revenu for her to live perfectly a quieter life in nature for the rest of her life. Her 20 acres of land that surrounds the hotel that she owns at the lake still have a lot of mature trees on it and she is not planning to cut down anything that is healthy and growing. Her 32 rooms of her Country-Inn are rented out from May 'till September since the last 3 years and last winter was her best yet, keeping more than 60 % of the rooms filled. She also owns the only fully maintained and accessable beach of the lake, which makes it even more interesting to stay at her luxurious Hotel.

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Nice beach, a swimming pool, a tennis court, a fishing pond, excellent individual services, the lake for sailing, boat renting, bathing and fishing and a lot of mature and healthy trees surrounding the hotel makes this a solid 5 star hotel since 3 years, and the only one of its kind in the valley. Barby White has spend her last ten years and all her money from the golden-egg laying chicken in Access on making this the perfect place to spend a wonderful vacation in the Winding River Region for all Sims to enjoy. Now it's time for her to enjoy it also. I wonder who will buy the Biergarten? What do you think?

72.14
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That's it, more of the boy's journey through the Ganoga coming soon. ;) Hope you liked the update again. ;)

Fred



Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on June 12, 2011, 01:29:07 PM
"Bacon is very good indeed." Slye said as he cracked some eggs into the same pan he'd removed the brown strips of fried goodness. He looked out his kitchen window at a towering stack of lumber that had been piled in front of it. "Now I just have to figure out what to do with all this lumber."

Nice to see the yard doing some good business, though I can foresee some slight, potential issues with WRECS down the road.

72.09 is an interesting road placement. I hope the region isn't susceptible to earthquakes, otherwise those houses (and the road) might be that much closer to the shore.

One question with the resort though: if there are 32 rooms and parking for 25, how do the others get there? IS there off-site parking, or how do they help cater to the desires of the 5-star crowd?

It's all looking good Fred, and the camping trip looks like it's off to a decent start too. Nice work.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 12, 2011, 02:12:31 PM
Thanks Matt, glad you liked this update and also glad that Slye likes Bacon.... ;)

32 rooms and 25 parkings.....hm ? Sounds quite illogical as you said, but that's all there is for parking at the moment, but.....did you see the limousine parked at the entrance and read that there's a shuttle (bus) service from and to all the busstations in towns, airport and the railstation? Maybe that will help them a bit. ;) But I guess you're right, now Barby will have to clear some land and build a parking nearby.....oh these nice mature trees will have to go after all......


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on June 12, 2011, 02:58:35 PM
It's 1967: the age of the auto. Who takes the bus? Heh heh. I did miss that, but it just didn't seem to mesh with the limo in the driveway. Makes sense though that some folks would have someone to drop them off though. I know where she can get someone to clear those trees for her though *cough cough*.

It the details like the limo and the Access sign at the bottom of 72.12 that really give so much detail to the region.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rockstar54 on June 12, 2011, 10:44:25 PM
Finally, I got to finish reading 62 pages.  :D I was an avid fan of NoG back then and I just found out about WRP last week. It's nice to see that your natural growth approach has not changed over the years and your dedication to make custom BATs for your needs is still awesome! Hey, do you still have an opening for new characters?  ;D

-Charles
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on June 13, 2011, 04:45:13 AM
Hey Fred

It seems that the sudden appearance of a shiny bobbing object in Beaver Pond (just a few feet away from that big submerged oak stump) is generating considerable interest among members of the fish community. Good luck, Charlie.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi148.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fs26%2Fjmyers2043%2Ftrout.jpg&hash=adf459293f55b7b9f5b255adb045916ac5136666)



- Jim



Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on June 13, 2011, 09:36:29 AM
Great 72 update there!
And the Fingerlake is looking very nice.
Also nice views of the other areas...
Nice work on the models and dutch barn/stable, too. :thumbsup:
Looking forward to more... ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on June 13, 2011, 02:31:19 PM
That's a nice little farm at the beginning of that road. Is there a farmhouse there, or does he just commute in?

Speaking of farms, is Sgt. Badger still around, or has he bitten the dust in some bizzare accident on the military base? ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: sumwonyuno on June 13, 2011, 09:12:53 PM
Great BATs!   &apls  Did you use SC4Terraformer on an incorporated city to achieve that vertical wall-road?

BTW, in that same picture, someone doesn't know how to take care of their boat...   :P
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on June 14, 2011, 01:14:58 AM
I have the same problem with lurkers and comments :(

Anyway, another great update! The lumber mill is huge, and all that stock of lumber is just waiting to turn into hard cash :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 14, 2011, 01:56:19 PM
Wow, nice to see the readers wake up...... ;) Thanks for the comments, much appreciated.

Yes Matt, you're right again, it is the age of the automobile in the late sixties. I guess Barby has to call up the only one she knows to have a wooden area cleared for the parking, it must be Slye. ;) Nice to see someone seeing the "little details".

rockstar54, A fan of NoG? Did you have the same name then? Glad to see here you again. For the opening of a character, yes I still have some room, some others soon will "have a sort of an accident" in the story and probably disappear. Just tell me what you have in mind, but please, not something we already have. If it sounds good, I will accept it and the only conditions are: to leave a comment once in awhile, so I know that you're still around. Let's hear it. ;)

jmyers2043 I don't know what exactly these trouts on the pictures are called, we call them in french *Truite Fardée* (Farded Trout??), but these are a western species species, not found in the Winding River region.....lol. Glad to see you're still having a look at my MD, Jim.

bat, thanks for the positive comments on my BATs, glad someone likes them.

frostwolf, I have shown Troy's home before, but you must have missed it, here it is again, only a few seconds walk from the gate. Badger is still around, working harder and harder on his veggie garden. He'll soon have a big update of both subjects.....the army and his projects for farming. Quite interesting too.....will he reveil something concerning that mystery on the base?

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sumwonyuno, I used a little the ingame flattening terraintool to straighten out (shift+1) the lines of the cliff and then plopped some roads out in the opening of the abyss to achieve this effect. Yeah, the boat....lol....I should've turned it around to look better.

nedalezz, Thanks. BTW, I would like that you PM me with some ideas for Johnny B.Badd, in which direction he wants to invest his money he's about to make so much of. ;)

Thanks again for all the comments, like I said, I'll be back with an update of the journey through the Ganoga Wilderness. The boys have been there for 5 days already and are back in time for a day, they found "something strange" down near the lake, where they got hold back....... ()what()

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on June 14, 2011, 06:17:14 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on June 14, 2011, 01:56:19 PM
they found "something strange" down near the lake ....... ()what()

Little did Charlie know when he left Beaver Pond campsite this morning the wonders he and his companions would uncover. Hidden in the middle of the Ganoga Wilderness was Father Nature.

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"It was the most strangest most puzzling place I had ever laid eyes upon." Charlie said, as he looked pensively over his shoulder back into the forest. "I am haunted by those weird eyes and the bark like skin. I know this may sound crazy, but it was almost as if I'd stepped into some kind of <fill in the blank with one of the choices below>"

1. Smokeknoll
2. Murkywater
3. Wasp Mound
4. Willowdune
5. Rainy Slough
6. Noblecairn
7. Vileflower
8. Wraith Crypt
9. Movie Set
10. Bordertown




- Jim


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on June 14, 2011, 08:38:20 PM
That's the age-old problem... build up too quickly (before the infrastructure catches up) and you can't get from point A to point B in a timely fashion!

I'm running into that in my own life... I live exactly 4 miles to the east of my job (on the same road) in the suburbs of Chicago.  There's basically one way to get to work... unless I want to drive 8+ miles to get there... and they're widening 2.5 miles from 2 lanes to 4 lanes, right in the middle of my commute.  The town that they're doing this in is self-described as "a rural community in an urban setting"... so there aren't any sidewalks... otherwise I'd ride my bike to work!

It has already taken me a half hour to get to and from work... to go 4 miles!

And, get this... last year, they repaved a large portion of this section... completely down to the road base... and they're going to tear it right back up and widen it this year.  Last year it took as long as 45 minutes to go those 4 miles... I'm not looking forward to breaking that record this summer!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 16, 2011, 07:18:21 PM
Just to let you all know that I created one more modern barn/stable in two versions for my coming up "farm prop-pack".

fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg594.imageshack.us%2Fimg594%2F5532%2Fbarn1.jpg&hash=7174a2cf6f4f5a4352969ccc8b017338408adb64)

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Just saw that I have to tweak the rooftexture a little, both sides should have the rusty darker part on the bottom of the roof, which seems not to be the case on the previews. Shouldn't be hard to correct.

There will be only one more barnbuilding and some more silos and stuff.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on June 18, 2011, 09:20:55 AM
Looking forward to seeing what Badger's up to.

That is one freaky tree, jmyers. Is that some kind of cedar?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on June 21, 2011, 07:59:37 PM
I surely dont know but isn't it mother nature? Hehe. Great last updates! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Exla357 on June 22, 2011, 05:28:45 PM
I can't believe I haven't been here before!!!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 22, 2011, 08:16:54 PM
Here's what I have been up to..........

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....been BATting like crazy! lol

Sorry for not having updated the story, but I am about to do write something good. I hope at least.  &Thk/(

Exla357 , geeez, where have you been all that time? ;)


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Exla357 on June 23, 2011, 07:56:19 AM
Uh, um, you know, the, uh, BEST SELLERS?  :D

Nice BATting there.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Framly on June 23, 2011, 12:42:29 PM
WoW! Great Props! The groundsilages looks very realistic :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on June 24, 2011, 01:16:29 PM
Fantastic work!!!   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rockstar54 on June 24, 2011, 09:32:50 PM
Nice BATs you got there Fred!  :thumbsup: The tarps look fluid though. I like the brick roofed barn, looks very realistic. :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Jmouse on July 04, 2011, 05:32:06 PM
Congratulations on behalf of the OSITM committee. Your work on the Winding River Project is legendary, and we're pleased to see it in OSITM for a third appeearance.

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Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rooker1 on July 04, 2011, 08:31:12 PM
Congrats on your third appearance in ositm!  It's really no surprise to me with all this great work, great read and your custom content.  I look forward to spending some time in here this month.

Robin
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: ricardomiranda on July 04, 2011, 09:27:01 PM
Congratulations OSITM !

Nice  job !
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on July 06, 2011, 08:38:07 AM
Wow you're coming out with some nice models!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Ramona Brie on July 06, 2011, 04:38:32 PM
Nice to see some good stuff here.

In update 69, there was a very nice midcentury school. Is it available for download anywhere? It's something JBSimio sadly has none of.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 06, 2011, 08:17:44 PM
Thanks guys for leaving a comment. I am also glad you like the idea of the proppack. That is exactly what's keeping me from making the next update, but don't worry, there will be a good one before the weekend ends ;)

Quote from: Tracker on July 06, 2011, 04:38:32 PM
Nice to see some good stuff here.

In update 69, there was a very nice midcentury school. Is it available for download anywhere? It's something JBSimio sadly has none of.

There are two schools in update 69. On pictures 69.06 and 69.14. The one on picture 69.06 comes from an asian site, can't remember though which one, the other I have no idea where that came from. All I can say that it is non-functional, but a simple LM.

Fred


«« " I saw him early this morning and he told me that he found some ruins or stuff when he went to the creek this morning to get the water. He was nervous and then he took off again down the hill and I have no idea where he is now,...that was an hour ago," Cliff told Diarmuid when he asked where Charlie is. " What? He didn't even say where he went?" Diarmuid asked, also nervous now. Cliff nodded his head deadquiet and showing definitively that he was worried.
"Let's not panic here guys," Patrick, the oldest of the Ganoga wandering gang, said in a loud voice. "Let's make the breakfast and by then Charlie will surely be back." »»

Jordan started the fire while Diarmuid got back into the tent to get the food and both Pat and Cliff went to get more wood.
The morning was a little foggy. Downhill you couldn't even see for more than 200 feet away and the sun was about to show in the east. The gang is now on its third day into the Ganoga Wilderness, and two days lost. Patrick Westwood is about to use the precious walkie-talkie to get in contact with the civilized world to get some help. Jorden is drawing the maps and even he doesn't know where they are. Are they still on Sterling's land, or have they entered the wilderness yet?
The worriness is about to begin.......
remember, this weekend at the latest.
What ruins did Charlie find?
Are they all lost?
Is Charlie lost too or did something happen to him?
........And why is Johnny B.Badd in prison?


.......who said that?.........
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Terring7 on July 09, 2011, 05:55:02 AM
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg709.imageshack.us%2Fimg709%2F3608%2Fdoismellositm.jpg&hash=a37262516f4d9aa91960317c97d35cb5930d6736)

3rd time? Wow! &apls &apls &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 10, 2011, 07:29:41 PM
I am sorry that it took so long to continue the story the Winding River Project, but with the Nexis Modern Farm Propack, I have been very busy.
Thanks for all the replies, comments and suggestions.


Update 73
             


Tuesday, June 6th, 1967
                           Today on this date ... then:



1752 – A devastating fire destroys one-third of Moscow, including 18,000 homes.
1859 – Australia: Queensland is established as a separate colony from New South Wales
1889 – The Great Seattle fire destroys the entirety of downtown Seattle, Washington.
1944 – World War II: Battle of Normandy begins. D-Day, code named Operation Overlord, commences with the landing of 155,000 Allied troops on the beaches of Normandy in France.
1984 – Tetris, one of the best-selling video games of all-time, is released.
1952 – Born: Yukihiro Takahashi, Japanese musician and singer, (surely not related to our Riichirou Takahashi.)
1968 – Died: Robert F. Kennedy, 64th United States Attorney General and politician


The morning was damp, a little cool and just plein damp. The fire that Jordan started did feel good to the gang of the Ganoga boys, as the Access Tribune calls them now.

«« " Where the heck have you been?" as the loud voice of Pat Westwood cut through the quiet wilderness when he saw Charly coming back to the campment through the bushes, all sweated up, "You got us all worried. Cliff almost freaked out earlier. What's up with you?"
" Geeez, you guys wouldn't believe what I found. Wait 'till you see this, this will freak you all out. It's just a little downhill on this side of the creek." Charly, the youngest of them all told with an all exited and vibrating voice.
" Calm down, Charly" Pat said, " Let's eat the breakfast and then we all have a look. By the way, I called your father this morning, letting him know we're still alive and probably lost. He said that these mountains contain a lot of iron ore that might give us false readings on the compass. He also says to continue downhill where we surely meet one of the two waterways in this area, either the river or the lake."

By now all the other members of the group gathered around Charly and Pat, who is the oldest and considered as the leader of the group.
"Are you nuts or something," Diarmuid told his best friend Charly, "disappearing like this all of sudden when I asked you only to get some water for the tea?"
"Ok now, that's enough", Pat jumped in again, " We got a big day ahead and we have to be down at the lake tonight, so let's eat and then see what Charly's found."»»
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During the breakfast everyone wanted to know everything that Charly saw, but Charly didn't say a word, munching on his toasted breads. Then they started packing up the campment and left everything in a pile behind, ready to be picked up later and continue the journey to the Ganoga Wilderness, or at least that is what they hoped for.
But for now they descended the small hill in the deep and very dense forests to see what Charly has found. It wasn't long before Diarmuid found a weird looking stone. While pointing to it for the others to see, Jordan Meaden found another one and so on. There were hundreds of them, all not very natural looking.
Many bizarre looking rocks, overgrown with moss, lichen and even small bushes and trees appeared more and more while going down when the land started to flatten out. Thousands of rocks, all probably artifically made are all over the place, some are still stacked as walls a bit and some seem to be columns of some kind. There are  even some little hills and bumps that appeared now, that seemed to be stacked rocks overgrown with vegetations.
«« The group stopped in the middle of the rocky jungle and looked around with open mouths and big eyes, besides Charly, who smilingly said: " So?"
No answer came, no one seemed to have heard him. All of sudden the silence was interupted. " What the hell is all this?", Diarmuid couldn't help himself. "It's so damn freaky."
They have found what seems to have been an enormous settlement of earlier pioneers, that is what Jordan tried to explain to the others, but Pat had already another version in his mind.
"Hey wait guys, this is not a simple settlement of some pioneers, this is way bigger. Look, it goes down all the way through here and here for several hundred feet, maybe even more." pointing in all directions without being sure of what he was saying and pointing to.
"I don't know if you learned about the skullpeople in school as I did. A legend then, but a few years back, they found a small settlement near the westriver, where the army is today, and that proved it to be somewhat true in a way. But his here must be the city of Lorse."

"Lorse?" Cliff asked totally lost in his mind.
"Yeah, the city of Lorse was the big skullpeople's settlement in the legend, this must be it. It was the center of their existance, it said" Pat answered.
" You mean to tell us that the skull people used to have a big city like this in the Ganoga?" Jordan asked, still amazed of what he's seeing and hearing from Pat.
" I don't know 'bout you, but that scares me." the small trembling voice of Diarmuid was heard.
"I'm gonna call up Mr Gabber again, he should know about this and surely has an idea what to do from here on.", Pat said while turning back to go uphill. "Wait!" Charly yelled out, "No way that we're going to abandon the trip because of this, now way. Let's have a good look around first, so we will know more of what we see here."»»
They all agreed and started slowly looking around while clinging to each other scaringly. Several hours later, they discovered that the area is way bigger than they thought, spreading for almost 1500 feet across all the way down to the creek Charly disovered earlier this morning.
Pat and Jordan took out their cameras and started taking pictures by the dozens. Some big boulders were found at the outer lines as if they were lined up to form a defense wall or something in some places. Blocks and columns were all over the place, probably hardly seen by air because of all the green vegetations that took over with the years.
That is probably why no one ever has found this place before, even if it is so immense.
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After having inspected the area thouroughly, they went back to where they left their baggage and then went down to the creek. There they decided to call in again after having discovered that they are actually on the Winding River's side instead in the Ganoga Wilderness. The gang also decided to stay for the night at the creek and the camp was erected near the big creek that flows into the giant river a couple of hundred feet below. The exact position was confirmed to John and Mike later that evening. They will come tomorrow.
Their new campment was on a beautiful spot this time with a great view over the deep creek, close to it but higher on the grounds. Only a couple of a hundred feet uphill begin the ruins that they found, which of course became the mainsubject of discussion during the evening at the fire.
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On the morning of the fourth day, John Gabber and Mike Allheimer rented a boat at Alex's girlfriend's place on the Sterling island in Phlox. Alex was there aready and Mike as usual couldn't help himself adding his "mustard" to the situation, which Alex of course didn't welcome. Curious Alex asked where they were going and Mike answered too quickly that they were going fishing in the big river, but Puto not being stupid at all, realized right away that they weren't because they had no fishing equipment and nothing much to do so. Alex just looked at them and said that they were going to talk about this more seriously at Barby's Biergarten on next friday, which John Gabber confirmed with a quick eyewink while jumping into the boat.
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Both John and Mike drove up the river at full speed for a few miles and after having searched for the right creek for an hour or so, they met the young adventurers in the big creek that comes down from the Stoke Mountains. Jordan was on the riverside already, waiting for them with a yellow T-shirt stuck on a branch and dipped into the sand of the small river.
The men were glad to see that everyone was ok and it wasn't long before everyone started talking at the same time about the findings of yesterday at the camp. They explained in every detail what they saw sofar and that the area of ruins seems to be gigantic.
John explained them that he knows the area very well from the air, while having flown over it for the last 30 years at least twice a week, to head to his office in Frampton, but he never recalled seeing any ruins or strange looking rock formations in the whole area. They also talked about the legendary lost city of Lores that was supposed to have existed more than 3 thousand years ago. Going by the legend of the skullpeople, they had a great and powerful city once. Could it be this that they found?
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Not long after some discussions at the camp and a good outdoor hot coffee and tea, they all left for the ruins. John and Mike didn't believe their eyes when they saw all this. Building walls were still upright in some places and here and there what seemed to be stony streets and those bolders that looked like  have had the job to keep someone out or in. Both were speechless, and for once Mike just shut up and didn't say one word.
«« " You guys probably have made the discovery of the century if this is really the city of Lores, remembering what he learned about it in school when he was young . This is just fantastic." Mike told the kids after he inspected the locality a little more. "I am amazed of what I see, this is the archeologist's heaven and maybe the beginning of changing the history and even origin of Simland." After a few minutes of silence he said with a smile, "All this because you got lost. That's destiny, right? "
"Someone absolutely wanted us to find this I think, " added Pat wormwood while looking up to the babyblue clear morning sky.
John also smiled and told the gang, "Now, how does it feel to be on the discovery list of something probably extremely important. You guys will be on every newspaper and every magazine's first page for the next months, I guess."
Everyone had a smile and showed their pride, and Charly asked before they walked back down to the camp : " Do you think that they will put us on TV too, Dad?"»»

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Back at the camp, John and mike had supper with the boys and wanted to leave early after the gang decided to stay for another night and continue their route through the Ganoga Park only tomorrow. Now that they know that the compass doesn't work here, they will rely more on their knowledge of the stars and sun, but they absolutely all agreed to continue their voyage, no matter what, even when John and Mike wanted them to come back with them and tell the world about their finds. But after some promisses not to say a word to anyone until they come back from the journey around the wilderness, John and Mike left, only to be back early the next morning with more supplies for the group to continue the trip.

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Now we know that the gang actually got quite lost during the descend of the Stoke Mountains and here is the map and more details of how they did it.

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After John and Mike brought the supplies the next morning and promissed again not to reveil anything until the group is back, the boys continue their route towards the Ganoga Wilderness, this time without relying too much on the compass. But first they asked for a small lift over the creek to the other side, instead of loosing a whole day to go all around it.
The excitement of having maybe discovered the legendary City of Lorse, gave them all inspirations to find something else and everyone kept their eyes open when they took the direction east towards the swamps and rejoin the original path they have planned in the beginning.
All this of course has relayed the journey for four, maybe five days.

Elsewhere in the region:

The journalist Charles M.Johnson, of the Access Tribune, who is also covering the story of the Ganoga gang as he calls them, today drove through the country surrounding the town of Access searching for a subject to fill half a page of this weekend's release of the Access Tribune. Close to the Henson farms in the southern hills, he stopped his car on top of a hill and looking down at the hilly background of the farm where he remembered the heavy logging that he saw many years ago. But instead of growing back into a forest, he only sees very small bushes growing sparcely, although the logging must be a deceny ago. What's happening, he asked himself, did the farmer do something to prevent the growings? When talking to the farmer who owns this land, he got informed that no trees grow on the hills anymore once the forest is chopped down. He himself did not touch this piece of land for the last ten years, he said and he doesn't know why. Johnson wants to find out more about this and planned to visit other places similar to this around the town.
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In Town, the Coca Cola factory is finished now and many new jobs were created. Another of the Mayor's promisses fullfilled. Cola already has also purchased the three warehpouses on the other side of the road for thier planned expansion in a few years. These belong to Guy Racsan's industries, but since Guy decided to move everything to the airport with his jet-engine manufacturing next year, every building of his in the industrial park is up for sale now, except Racsan Motors.

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The old shoe manufacture near the shopping Mall caught on fire this morning caused by an electrical system failure they say. The damage is not very important, but because this is one of the first industries in Access and the only industrial building left in this specific area, the President of the company decided to abandon it and move its production to another location that is for rent in the actual industrial park , which is greatly appreciated by the surrounding residential folks. It will soon be replaced with a modern appartment block.

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'Twas the day of the first Radio station to officially opened in the Winding River Region. It was built near the Hydrodam and just beside the highway 15 on the highest point near the town. WEZM Radio will be transmitting music, news and discussions for 12 hrs/day, from 7 to 7. The owner, which also owns two more radio stations in Bluebay and Sandom, plus one important TV-Station in Reverant, is about to discuss things with the municipality about also bringing in a TV-Station to Access Center one day soon to come. The location has still to be found, maybe close to the Valmore lake.

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With the help of a big loan from the Commerce Bank in Phlox, Gregory Badger plunges head first into commercial farming. He bought an existing grainfarm near his rented place on Phlox (Sterling) Island and is hoping to make a few bucks with it, planting only vegetables and small fruits. He is getting tired of being a sergeant in the army. Only 26 years old, Greg wants to leave the fulltime army, only to make his living with farming, but staying a Reserve soldier in case things go wrong. The land is about one eighth the size of Phlox island, fertile, dry and well drained, probably the best fields on the whole island. He will continue to rent the house where he lives for the moment, but with time, when the new income allows it, he is dreaming to have his own home on the island one day, maybe on top of that small hill below.
Meanwhile the rented place will be not forgotten and abandonned but continued to cultivate with fresh veggies for the market.

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The rest of this same island (the southern point) is being invaded by folks that seek the water and peace of country and nature, only to build their weekend homes. What once used to be useless land for the farmers, quickly became a haven for weekend lovers.
The Winding river is a boating heaven for many sailors and boaters, more and more boats of all kinds can be seen on the river during the summertime, which lurks in a lot of new citizens. This is welcomed by the farmers who take great profits selling the small lots of their riverside forests. Since the river is connected with the Marble Lake where the Capitol City of Lakestead is, a boat voyager can drive up the river for two days and reach the great city. Also a trip downriver for two days and a half will lead them to the sea at the small town of Winding River Outlet (see map on bottom of this post)

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The land is expensive and the taxes are high, but the price that these sims pay for is well worth it, they say. It's a sim's dream come true to own a small piece of land and a weekend home on Phlox island's south point. Not many nice spots are left, so hurry to get yours before it is too late.

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Regional Map...73.17
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Well, that's it for today again, hopefully the boys in the Ganoga will find their way now. I will be back soon with another update of these young fellows that are in search of a great adventure.
Hope you enjoyed this episode.

Fred ;)

Remember that there is a 1966 fullsized detailed map of Access (updated every year of the story) here below:

http://img600.imageshack.us/img600/8523/wrp1966.png

and one of the Capitol City's region here:

http://www.imgnook.com/7FKo.png

...and in transport view:

http://www.imgnook.com/gLFo.png
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Ramona Brie on July 11, 2011, 12:39:59 PM
Very nice.

If you need graphics for your TV stations... *raises hand* That's my OTHER design interest. Surprised it took until the 1960s to get radio service in Access Center though. More realistically it might have signed on in the late 1940s or the 1920s-30s. About this time more TV stations would have been signing on.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 11, 2011, 07:27:13 PM
Quote from: Tracker on July 11, 2011, 12:39:59 PM
Very nice.

If you need graphics for your TV stations... *raises hand* That's my OTHER design interest. Surprised it took until the 1960s to get radio service in Access Center though. More realistically it might have signed on in the late 1940s or the 1920s-30s. About this time more TV stations would have been signing on.

What kind of graphics are you talking about......? I don't understand where a TV station needs graphics.

Btw, the radio came to the town in the sixties because in the fourties and early fifties, nothing existed here in the Winding River, besides trees...... ;) not mentioning the 20's or 30's.
The first road entered the region in 1954 and the first village in 1956. It had 72 citizens, a bit too small to have a radiostation.

Might want to read the story from the beginning.... ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 13, 2011, 01:23:06 PM
Very very nice.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on July 13, 2011, 03:25:33 PM
Great update again, and congrats on the OSITM!!!   :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 16, 2011, 07:39:17 PM
Thanks Kov Liberty and Tomas Neto. I'm honored to be in here for the third time.

I am looking for two more characters, who wants to be in and have a character in this story? As long as they aren't architects or anything to do with construction or else, their ambition will be fine. Any job direction is fine as long as it can be come interesting in this region. All you have to do is leave a comment once in awhile and show us that you are still following the story.
The reason why I am looking for two is that soon two or three of our characters will die , have accidents or simply disappear. Their "godfathers", I haven't seen for more than 6 months now, not having left a comment since. Therefor I conclude that there are not with the story anymore.

The characters are Tom Kohler from the Kohler Buslines, Charles M. Johnson, the writer and journalist and Riichirou Tagahashi, the Civil Engineer from Access.
If someone wants to take over and buy the Kohler Buslines, it is up for sale soon. Any existing character or new can do so. The one more logical to replace the buslines' owner will be chosen.

See ya soon,

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on July 16, 2011, 08:08:30 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on July 16, 2011, 07:39:17 PM
I am looking for two more characters, who wants to be in and have a character in this story? As long as they aren't architects or anything to do with construction or else, their ambition will be fine. Any job direction is fine as long as it can be come interesting in this region.

I'm going to volunteer Bob Mangarten. He's a hoot. You remember him from GRVII challenge 2?

http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=7494.0 (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=7494.0)

Bob is a telephone repair man and chicken wing connoisseur.


- Jim

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Gringamuyloca on July 16, 2011, 08:34:56 PM
.... maybe you could use a truck driver???  ;D ... I can do that... :thumbsup: (My company motto: Anything, Anytime, Anywhere... Safely!)
Have a couple of tractors, 2 tridem-axle 45' flat deck trailers,  super b train and a lowbed for moving equipment up to 30 tonnes!

edit: spelling


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 19, 2011, 07:47:44 PM
Hey jmyers2043 and Gringamuyloca
both your characters have been accepted, maybe now we will have a spicy chicken wing inventor and a future trucking king in our story.
I sent both of you a PM with some basic information that I need to enter these characters into my story, please send me the answers to those questions as soon as you can. Your characters will stay alive as long as you visit this MD once in awhile and leave a comment.

Have fun now

Fred ;)

Edit: If there are still others interested in having a character in the story, let me know.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on July 23, 2011, 07:38:42 AM
Quote from: mrbisonm on July 19, 2011, 07:47:44 PM
Edit: If there are still others interested in having a character in the story, let me know.

Hey Mr. Bison! It's Lak47 here, you may know me from SIMPEG :D

I've been visiting your MD quite often, but never commented or replied, plus I love the Nexis LOTs and props, and use them extensively for personal LOTing.

So, what do I have to do to get a character in your superb MD?! :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 23, 2011, 10:02:04 AM
Quote from: lak47 on July 23, 2011, 07:38:42 AM
Quote from: mrbisonm on July 19, 2011, 07:47:44 PM
Edit: If there are still others interested in having a character in the story, let me know.

Hey Mr. Bison! It's Lak47 here, you may know me from SIMPEG :D

I've been visiting your MD quite often, but never commented or replied, plus I love the Nexis LOTs and props, and use them extensively for personal LOTing.

So, what do I have to do to get a character in your superb MD?! :)
Of course I know you.... ;), and you're welcome to our MD/CJ.
I will send you a PM later today with all the details needed to start a character in the story of the Winding River Project.
Got any idea in what "profession" line you want to have a career for him/her?

Fred


EDIT:
Oh btw, there will be an important update tonight, be there!
;)

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 23, 2011, 07:41:44 PM


Update 74
             


Wednesday, June 7th, 1967
                           Today on this date ... then:

- 1654 – Louis XIV is crowned King of France.
- 1832 – Asian cholera reaches Quebec, brought by Irish immigrants, and kills about 6,000 people in Lower Canada.
- 1967 – Israeli forces enter Jerusalem during the Six-Day War.
- 1837 Born – Alois Hitler, father of Adolf Hitler (d. 1903)
- 1917 Born – Dean Martin, American singer and actor (d. 1995)
- 1940 Born – Tom Jones, Welsh singer
- 1958 Born – Prince, American musician
- 1974 Born – Bear Grylls, British adventurer and former soldier, now Chief Scout
[/size]

Plans and plans and more plans for the future of Access has mayor Bartlett in mind as he informs his citizens in a public appearance about his intentions for the next three years of his office. The demands of some of his citizens were finally heard and a golfcouse within the town's limits will soon see the light. The location was chosen inside the Valmore part of the town. Of course that enlightened some well known faces like Vito Scaletta, Terry Slye, Mike Allheimer and Steve Gibson, who are all golf fans and were desperately waiting for this.
Talking about Valmore, let's have a thorough visit through this part of the tow, that we rarely have visited in the last years. Close to the lake Valmore, the suburbs of Access have become a part of the town of Access itself, growing out of its size. As if a new downtown is in the developping, Valmore spreads northward.
Valmore will be "renovated", Mayor Bartlett told to the local paper yesterday, he is planning to invest more of the citizen's tax contribution into the northern half of Access in the following three years than spending his money inside the old part.
He was talking about commercial centers, schools, parks and a golfcourse, a new hitech industrial park and some more ORP's....? What?. "Organized Residential Placements" ? What is he talking about?

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Anyways, let's have a closer look at some of the happenings and changes in this town. A few weeks ago a new dump was zoned at the northern lines of the municipality. The reason was that the dumpsite in Access Center near the Hydrodam is already filling up to much and that right here in this former wooded lot, sims have already and illegally dumped their garbage since years. So, the area was remodeled into a new dumpsite, which will also help to decrease the costs of the long transportation to the southern dumpsite.

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Once officially opened, it wasn't too long before people brought their backyard piled garbage and the site became almost busier than the Access one for a few days. It is amazing to see what people throw away these days, says the dump guardian to the local newspaper after a week of the opening of the site. He saw things that he wouldn't believe that they could be purchased in this country.

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In other parts of the town, some folks are definitively against the plans of Mayor Bartlett, who wants seriously to get rid of the old part of the town and transform it into tourist's paygrounds. He mentioned that the area needs new ideas to get people to come and stay and one excellent way is to draw in the tourists, which will bring the money and then of course new buissnesses and jobs. All is a matter of starting an action which will result in a re-action. Mayor Brainless, as some have started calling him, told the population whether or not they like it, it will be done in the next 5 years before he ends his mayorship. This are will become a public beach and owners of these homes will have five years to move out. Although the lots were well paid off, people didn't like the Mayor's idea.

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Very sad news in the town of Valmore this week. One of our beloved character had a fatal car accident while driving to work. Well Known Civil Engineer of Access Center, Riichirou Takahaschi, died earlier this week in a carcrash northbound on the Access road. He must have been late to work, driving faster than usually and hit an oncoming fully loaded garbagetruck. Since he lived in the suburbs of Valmore, Takahaschi was demanded by his sister to be burried in the Valmore cemetary.
Everyone working for the town of Access was there and every office in town was closed for the day. Born in 1932 in Japan, he was about to reach his 35th birthday soon. The cityplanner was remembered on an engraved bronze plaque on the walls of the Cityhall's entrance in downtown Access Center.

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Most of the lake Valmore's surroundings are swampy and somewhat inaccessible to build something useful on or around it. Again Mayor Bartlett is stirring up many different opinions within the population. "If a town doesn't grow, you might as well dig it under and put a cross on top of it" a slogan he already said before some years ago. People like Barby White,the Westwood family, Adrian McCoy and Tony Racsan (guy's father) which are true environmentalists, are totally against the idea of draining the swamp to make it habitable. Others see possibilities to either create a great new living space or making money with it.
The swamp however will not come cheap to drain, engineers of landscaping and environment will have to be hired to guarantee a safe haven once the land is ready for the buildings. Mayor Bartlett however has everything already thought out, and that is what scares some of the citizens.

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Someone else who received the visit of some offficials from the environment department this week, was Mr Donovan, the owner of Donovan's Building Supplies in Valmore. After having built his new warehouse and having had his big opening sale, he forgot to clean up after. Leaving a lot of garbage behind, the wind is picking it up and meking deliveries of it to the neighborhood, which resulted in some complaints. Donovan received a 24 hr warning this time only, which could become a fine the next time it happens.

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It was time that the second passengertrainstation was openend in the town of Access. This one here in Valmore will cut the traffic of the downtown station in half, which was already starting to fill up to its limits.
It was built beside the Clocktower where a second downtown is about to develop it seems. Since the last two years, offices seem to have found a new location to grow in the town. Since downtown lots are tight, more expensive and hard to get, many were implanted right here in Valmore, only a few hundred yards away from the actual downtown. This is one reason why the trainstation was built here also.

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The mysterious "Valleysweeper", a wind that passes through uninhabitetd areas every 50 years or so, has found its way to the Winding River Region and swept the town for a few minutes with high dusty winds. The event caused only a few damages and only one cat was reported to have left its life.
This kind of ministorm was never experienced in a habited area yet, but often seen or heard of in deeper and wilder valleys on the eastcoast of Simland. They are total mysteries since they appear for no apparent reason and disappear as fast as they arrive. The dust they bring along is still of unknown origin. Some say that it comes from the african continent with higher altitude strong winds and falls down on the eastcoast when the winds slow down while reaching the mountains of Simland.

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Another news that hit the frontpage of the Access Tribune this week was the lost cowherd that was seen on the soccerfield in Valmore near the National museum. One citizens said that it was time to mow the lawn and the cows did a good job, except they left some browish little elevations behind. The owner of these cows was informed and within an hour, they were back wandering through the streets of valmore towards their home, just outside of town near highway 15. No complaints were filed and some of the citizens had a nice "cowboy time" for a few minutes.

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And finally a fullsized look over the Valmore part of Access Center and where it stands today. Growing like weed, the Valmore lake area will soon touch the west River limits in the north. Mayor Bartlett is really concentrating on Valmore these days, as he sees possibilities of modernday developments beyond his dreams. Further south of the town of Access, the foothills have been reached and the terrain limits the access to.....well....Access.

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You liked it? Leave a comment. You didn't like it? Well, come back next time, maybe you will like it then... ;) Have a nice weekend, I'll be back soon.

Oh...btw, the boys in the Ganoga wilderness are doing fine, now that they're on the right track downwards to the swampy terrains. They will be back in the next update.

Fred



Remember that there is a 1966 fullsized detailed map of Access (updated every year of the story) here below:

http://img600.imageshack.us/img600/8523/wrp1966.png

and one of the Capitol City's region here:

http://www.imgnook.com/7FKo.png

...and in transport view:

http://www.imgnook.com/gLFo.png










Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on July 24, 2011, 06:48:07 PM
Very nice update, as is usual for you.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on July 25, 2011, 12:13:07 AM
Nice update!! I hope the swamp is left as it is! We dont need more concrete jungle in place of real jungle  :thumbsdown:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on July 25, 2011, 06:23:45 AM
Congrats on your third OSITM-award!
Also nice updates in this month...
Looking forward to more... ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on July 25, 2011, 08:13:32 PM
Hey Fred

Quote from: mrbisonm on July 19, 2011, 07:47:44 PM
Your characters will stay alive as long as you visit this MD once in awhile and leave a comment.

My goodness. I don't want Bob to get a nasty shock while working on a phone. I guess I'll be commenting all the time ... his fate is in my hands it appears.    %wrd   

- Jim





Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on July 25, 2011, 10:47:09 PM
Nice progress on things Fred. As for the Sweeper, for what it looked like, if a bird and a cat were the only two casualties then things worked out pretty well. Nice use of the quirks of the game for that one.

As for the Mayor's plans, pity he's in office for that much longer... or pity that there's not more of a voice to check him. Ah well, should be interesting to see the developments at any rate. Hopefully that sophisticated drainage system doesn't stop up any time soon, or those homes will have an interesting time of things.

Nice work.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on July 26, 2011, 12:57:03 PM
Another fantastic update :)

Even if I'm extremely busy, I always make time to read through your updates! Love em!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: sumwonyuno on July 26, 2011, 02:33:22 PM
Leave the swamp alone; it looks great from that view.   :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 26, 2011, 02:40:16 PM
Thanks Cyclone1001, glad o see you again. Your character (Steve Gibson, the bushpilot) is about to have a serious adventure delivering supplies to the "Ganoga Boys", which now have finally reached the Ganoga lakes. ;) It will be in the second next update, but I'll talk about it in the next update before this weekend.

Well, you know how it is lak47,Mayor Bartlett seems to be very hard headed and not backing up on things he said. We better have a good last look at the Valmore lake swamps, because they will, like everything else, soon disappear and be replaced with homes. :(

bat, thanks, nice to see you again. ;)

It ain't that bad, Jim, you don't need to be there everytime. I only let characters disappear when I haven't seen their tutors for 5 or so updates or couple of months.
"Nasty shock while working on the phine lines"? Hmm, that gives me an idea for the entry story of Bob. ;)

Matt 3S, always glad to see you comment in my threads.
Yeah, the sweeper, that was probably a bug the game had when I once exited from a city tile to the regionview. I instantly had the idea of a duststorm when I saw this.....lol...so I added it to the story. Glad you liked it.
About those homes.....well, you'll see one day what will happen when you build to close to water........
By the way, T.S. Slye (your character) has a railroad construction in mind, for private use....In the second next update coming.

nedalezz, did you know that your character (Johnny B.Badd) was in prison for 48 hrs? Read all about it in the next update. ;)

sumwonyuno, yeah, you got to say that to the Mayor, get a character in the story and turn his hat around.....lol ;) How about it, I have seen you several times here, might as well jump in with the rest. Let me know and I'll PM you the details needed. (I'm hiring right now)

I will be back with another update later this week, hopefully before the weekend. We will talk about an update of the Ganoga boys, who finally reched the waters of the Ganoga Wilderness, three days later than planned. Then some small talk about some of our characters and also some news from the Town of Access Center.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Gringamuyloca on July 26, 2011, 03:26:16 PM
Quote from: Gringamuyloca on July 16, 2011, 08:34:56 PM
.... maybe you could use a truck driver???  ;D ... I can do that... :thumbsup: (My company motto: Anything, Anytime, Anywhere... Safely!)
Have a couple of tractors, 2 tridem-axle 45' flat deck trailers,  super b train and a lowbed for moving equipment up to 30 tonnes.

Quote from: mrbisonm on July 19, 2011, 07:47:44 PM
Hey jmyers2043 and Gringamuyloca
both your characters have been accepted,

I have been lurking here on and off since the beginning, but the recent development ^^ got me thinking I'd better read it again, in case I missed something 'important'. I am so glad I did!!

You have put together a very entertaining MD... I enjoy your stories within stories approach... and the characters  :thumbsup: are so very real. I like the little 'extras' you add in. The detail in your pictures as well as your characters has got me hooked! ;D

I will admit I got a little worried when Charlie Gabber became William for short time, and felt relief when Charlie reappeared! ;) 

Sorry to learn of Riichirou's demise...(IIRC  he was born in Frampton, his parents were from Japan) ;) (Page 22 update 2/3 (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=7189.429)) , at least he will leave a mark on the WRP.


Update 63 had a shot that piqued my curiosity...
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Is that 'just' a rock in the middle of the woods? In the lower left quadrant??? Maybe another 'find'? Or just my overactive imagination?

I can hardly believe those pics of Valmore in update 74! It is growing fast.. and I admit I'm ready for a round or two of golf myself... hopefully I'll be able to get a tee time once it's complete.

Enough for now... check your inbox :)


EDIT: ps Congratulations on your 3RD OSITM!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 26, 2011, 09:45:18 PM
Gringamuyloca
Wow, not many have had me notice the errors that I made here and there during the story, sign that you're reading the story carefully.
Yes, Riichirou was born in Frampton and his parents were from Japan, sorry, forgot about that. I should have read his papernotes that I have of every character a little better.
I knew about Billy and Charlie (Charly sometimes...lol) exchange for that time (happened twice if I remember right) and once it was a few days old and no one told me, about it I thought, just leave it and forget about it, since no one has noticed it anyways. I somehow mixed them up.... %confuso That can happen also sometimes. lol. Nobody is perfect and surely I am on the list.

Glad that you accepted to enter with story with your character, Ann Bradley (truckdriver). She will be moving in from Goosebay to Access first in the second next update. (Gotta lot of packing to do... ;) )

Now about that grey thing in the middle of the forest.....lol...again, the only one who has noticed it is you, or at least has told us so.
Well, that looks like a giant rock to me, no? Could it be something else out there in the wooded flats? No one has been there yet, maybe we'll find out later.....much later.  ::) From the air no one noticed it either, besides Steve Gibson, the pilot, at one time, but he just thinks it's a big rock, and therefore has not mentioned it to anyone and probably forgotten all about it by now.

Btw, I have many little suspicious things like this hidden since the beginning of the story (did you see the giant crocodile in the Valmore lake yet (lol), or the airplane in the Ganoga swamp?) and I will get back to them one time, when someone discovers it. (just like the ruins of that city that the Ganoga boys just found lately.

Anyways, enjoy the story of Annie soon and be welcomed to the Winding River Project. ;)

Fred

Edit:

Here is a small teaser of what's soon coming up. Where did all the trees go in Access?

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg695.imageshack.us%2Fimg695%2F9928%2Flowforestfarms.jpg&hash=86ffc7435cc90f2f385ad73c8be8878305f706b0)

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on July 26, 2011, 09:56:40 PM
Oh dear, I think Access is totally no place for the green thumbs!  ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on July 26, 2011, 10:17:40 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on July 26, 2011, 02:40:16 PM
railroad construction
You sure know how to get my attention. Love the preview of the Phlox farmland in the valley.

Also, as for the details, you do an excellent job filling your pictures with them, it's hard to pick them all out to discuss (a great thing and a very nice touch indeed).
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on July 27, 2011, 04:25:12 AM
Hi Fred,

It's time do confess...... :-[
I have no time to read all the long stories you tell in this history of Winding River. I am really sorry, but it just is that way.
I do look at your images though. And they are very often beautiful and full of interesting details.  :satisfied:
Also the image of the Phlox County. I see some very interesting large farms.
Makes me think: I see large barns with green, blue and white roofs. I could have used these for my upcoming stage 5 farms. But now your props are coming soon. So there is something that suits my taste better.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Gringamuyloca on July 27, 2011, 03:26:54 PM
 :sunny:
Happy Birthday Fred!
May your birthday wish(es) come true!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on July 27, 2011, 05:17:04 PM
More mysterious doings in Access.

Looking good, Fred.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on July 27, 2011, 10:13:08 PM
Just noticed the main page. Happy birthday Fred.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on July 28, 2011, 02:47:40 AM
Welcome to page 65!

Looking forward to more of these nice farms...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 29, 2011, 08:27:01 AM
Thank you guys, glad to see you all again, and thanks for the birthday wishes......oh my... another year just passed. ;)



Update 75
             


Thursday, June 8th, 1967
                           Today on this date ... then:

-
- 793 – Vikings raid the abbey at Lindisfarne in Northumbria, commonly accepted as the beginning of the Scandinavian invasion of England.
- 1776 – American Revolutionary War: Battle of Trois-Rivières – American attackers are driven back at Trois-Rivières, Quebec.
- 1967 – Six-Day War: The USS Liberty incident occurs, killing 34 and wounding 171.
- 2008 – The Akihabara massacre takes place in the Akihabara shopping quarter in Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan
- 1940 – Born: Nancy Sinatra, American singer
- 632 –  Died: Muhammad, Prophet of Islam
[/size]


«« "I have seen a lot of green spaces all over Simland, but this is more than I could have imagined, it is just marvelous. Never would I have thought to see this out here in the Ganoga wilderness." Westwood couldn't help saying as soon as they got out into the open after a day's walk through dense forest.
They all had a difficult day today, crossing the deepest forests ever known to them. But the Ganoga Boys, now known all over town, made it, they finally arrived on the westside of the great marshlands, three quarters down south. They're back on their planned trail. Here the swamps are in full bloom of all kinds of flowering bush and small trees. Of course, it is June 8th, the flowering season, but the beauty of it passes beyond realism.
"Why are there so many flowers out here, while back in the Access and Grasslake areas we only have few of these," asked Charlie and looking at Westwood as if he knew the answer.
"It must be the climate here, protected by the stoke mountains or something", answered Pat Westwood, still looking around the bay filled with tiny islands painted with flowers.
"My father told me that they have a lot of warmwater springs in the area, keeping the whole climate warmer out here during the winter than anywhere else. He said that it can be seen from an airplane while flying over the area during the wintermonths. There's a lot of fog here during the cold months." replies Diarmuid McGormain, being amazed by the show also.
Charlie, "I know that not many have been courageous enough to fly over the area alone, maybe except my father and Gibson, but I once heard my father also mention that there's  alot of steaming springs in this region in the winter, which can be easily seen. When I was younger  I flew over this area with my father, we fished nearby, Uncle Mike was there too, but that was in the summer, like today."
"Uncle Mike?", asked Diarmuid, all surprized looking at his longtime buddy. "Mike Allheimer is not your uncle.!"
"Anyways, I have been calling him that eversince I was born, he's my father's best friend." Charlie added and pointed down to the little peninsula ahead of them, " There's a nice place to drop our camp, I'm bushed."»»

75.01
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And everyone headed into the direction of the little protruding rock that reaches out into the lake.
It took them 3 days more than expected to get here, but finally the planned trail around the Ganoga wilderness was picked up again. Now they have to contour the lake's southern end and then head northward alongside all the lakes that are on their way to the bridge where they end their journey maybe in two weeks.

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They were all tired from the day's walk and camp didn't take long to get placed. I'm sure that the snoring of each one of them was heard all over the valley, keeping bears and other predators surely away. Even the fire was left to go to sleep, which usually is kept alive the whole night. The nights are dark out here and tonight was one of those darker nights, leaving no lights except for the stars which could have easily be counted.

75.03
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Very early the next morning, Westwood was the first to get up and he was again amazed at the sight he confronted while coming out of his tent. Flowers were everywhere still covered with little drops of liquid crystals from the dew it seemed. They camped closer to the water than they thought, not having realized it last night. The water is clean and clear and Pat grabbed the teapot to get some of that fresh looking water only a few feet away for the morning coffee. The fire was lighted by Cliff Dubold, who became the second to come out of the tent, also having stared at the wild beauty that surrounded them first.
««" Hey Pat", he yelled out, surprized that no echo was heard, "Did anyone get some firewood last night?"
"No, we were all too tired, remember?" Westwood answered while filling the pot to the rim with that fresh looking water and making sure that those small minnows didn't become a part of the morning coffee.
" Oh sh**," could be heard in the tents by the others who slowly woke up after Cliff yelled out for the wood. " Why is it always me", Cliff mumbled and went off to find some dry wood nearby.
"Anyone saw my teabags?" were the last words heard by Diar before breakfast was served.»»

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After the good breakfast the boys decided not to go around the southend of the lake, realizing how little wide the lake was here and which surely would have taken two more days. They had a closer look at the surroundings and were looking for a good path. Everything they saw left them stunning, not realizing that they are probably the first of simkind that has ever set foot on these precious looking grounds.

75.05
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They found a place close by the camp where the crossing will be quite easy with no deep water and only a very short distance to the other shore. This is where the whole 30 mile long lake is the narrowest, luckily for them. They will be hopping from a mini island to another and then to a pile of boulders to cross the lake to the eastside. On the other side they could see that the forest was not getting easier to walk through, since from this side of the banks it looked like a solid green impenetrable wall.
The journey was undertaken right after Westwood called in by radio to give their daily lifesigns and plans of the day to Mr Gabber. Steve Gibson was the one who answered, having the radio while Gabber was in Frampton in his office. They made plans to meet in two days somewhere on the east lakeside to deliver  merchandise which is soon needed and Steve mentioned a storm warning for tomorrow with rough winds and said that it was impossible to fly over the region while it is windy.

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Now let's go back to civilization and just have a small visit to and around the towncenter of Access.
Kohler buslines opened their first buscentral in town, just behind the shopping mall. the perfect place for it. This is the regional terminal of his buslines, offering 38 more new jobs with a total of 16 busses now that run Access, Sandom and Bluebay and one long distance to and back from Frampton. A new station in Goosebay, a small fishing village north of Bluebay, will soon get its bustation also. The bus already runs through this tiny village, but only stops at the local general store for 5 minutes, well, the only store that is, since the village has only about 130 citizens.
After having spent thousands of §'s for the garage and his new busparking behind the Gabber Center (arena) and having bought out the regional schoolbus buissness lately, Tom Kohler is now up to his neck in debts with this new mainstation, only hoping that everything will work out as it is planned. Tom is still running his taxi, which by now his wife, Jessica Parker, manages.

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With all the civil and criminal pursuits these days, new law offices were built right in downtown, where once an older commercial clothing store stood that moved to the new commercial park near the highway in Valmore. Two super-modern looking small 10 story high office buildings now look over the old downtown and offer a dozen or so lawyers and prosecuters to present and defend Access's laws. The downtown is getting old, some say, especially Mayor Bartlett has been keeping a sharp eye on it. Don't tell me he will be wanting to do changes here also?

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The Access road, Sandom road and Mainstreet intersection right in the middle of downtown, now has a new hamburger stand. Our Fastfood baron, Michael Truex from Frampton now has his second Mr Burger in town and is about to find a spot in the Valmore area of town for a third one. Truex wants to become the king of burgers in the Winding River Valley one day. Well started, Mike.

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Well, what you see below will soon be gone. The whole area, including the shopping ctr, the bank, the Co-op and some other buildings which have become part of the historical town will soon be torn down. The shopping Center has moved to Valmore near the highway and is now 3 times bigger. This area will be an office Center, as planned some 4 years ago. Even Barby's Biergarten new owner is about to ask himself to sell or not to, only one year after he bought it from Barby. Prices are good for landlots in the middle of downtown at this time, which is about to become the center of attraction again with all those new developments around.

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Another buissness man we haven't heard from lately, is Nethaniel Wellington and his Clubfoods which he has again extended with another store in the southwest of town, now covering most of Access with his foodservices. Wellington is a well known buissnessman in town by now, always investing his profits into more profitables. Some are jealous of him, seeing the man expanding into all four directions and slowly becoming THE man of Foods. Now owning three Bake n' sales, one Clubfood and one Simfood Market store, he also owns a big lot in Phloxsince 5 years and one in Valmore that he bought last year, just beside the new shopping Center. Neth plans his future ahead of time. Already closing in on his 40th birthday, Wellington is still living alone in his red appartment block on Mainstreet beside the old church and his first Bake n' Sale, way too busy to find a partner.

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Near the Hydrodam on Fingerlake, a small incident of a 8 year old kid falling off the walls into the maindrinkwater tank for the town, has stirred up the question of security around the area. The kid was saved. The director of the Drinkingwater plant and hydrodam promissed to revise the whole area and see what can be done, but already mentioned that he might as well seal off everything contouring the Hydro Company's property to the public once and for all, which does not seem to please the public, the tourists, nor the mayor and his council. Security first he says. Tourism is only a secondary matter.
Well, that's the way it goes. It takes one incident and then everything will be changed and secured while freedom is slowly diminishing for everyone.

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Also at the hydrodam, this time below the dam, the area was permanently closed today for all those sports anglers and fishermen that came here on saturdays and sundays to spend some time enjoying the pleasures of being away from their daily stress, leaving behind a lot of mad fishermen. The danger of taking other changes to get a new incident like the 8 year old boy is about to be eliminated. Some folks say that their freedom around Access is getting more and more limited and restrained, seeing that more and more places are closing to public access.

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This week a special award was given to the owners of the Access Wine producers, which were chosen this year for the goldmedal for the best tasting wine of Simland. The Vineyard is on the other side of highway 15 near the new hospital, the only farmland that is still well and alive in the town of Access. Their vines grow on the southside of the beginning of the hills, which makes them just perfect for the growth of the grapes.
Maybe it is because of the nearby official dumpsite of Access, that have the grapes give their special taste, some smarta**es say.
The Yard belongs to the Streicher family, which originally came from Strassbourg in Alsace/France (former Germany). They were one of the first to establish a wine producing farm in this area back in the fifties and have brought along the family knowledge of centuries of winemaking. Now well known and appreciated all over Simland also, the Streicher family has started another big plantation (vineyard) in the nearby hills of southern Access. More than 2000 little saplings were planted this spring.

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And now for some "smalltalk" and/or rumours in town.
- Johnny B.Badd was hold in the townprison for 48 hrs last week, having driven a car and causing an accident while being drunk in downtown Access. At the same town he was interogated for having been seen with some smalltown drugdealers by the underground police inspectors of town. Now that he knows he is being watched, or let's say, his vendors are on the policelist, Johnny decided to change plans again and come up with something more secure for him. We will hear about this sometime soon.

- Although Alex Puto greatly denies all these rumours with Katie Panskyy, it was proven that he spends more time with his girlfriend now than on his work, even sleeping over at her place more often than at home. Alex is definitively in love, no doubt anymore.

- A man in Bordertown, north of Simland, got fired just because he received an electrical shock while reparing a broken phone in a private home and which burnt down the house. Having worked for this phone Company for more than 10 years, he was surprized to be fired because of an accident like this which was not his fault at all. The man packed his things and moved out of town immediatly, some say that he found a job in Sandom, which has the local phone company of Access also.

- George Westwood, Pat's twin brother, was elected today as the president of a new organization, the Access Historical Conservation Association.(AHCA) His time guarding and renovating the old little first church of Access brought him the possibility to become one of Access's first historical Conservative VIP.

- Greg Badger today changed his life while leaving the fulltime army and get incorporated into the reserve army only. This way he will have more time for his veggies and fruits, he says, which are taking more and more of his time. He was also seen earlier this morning at the bank in Access, holding a loancontract in his hands.

And for the last and not least news of the Winding River Region, a new village was today officially named, the fourth municipality in the Winding River Region. Holland has grown from a few farms to a village of about 200 in the last two years. It has the biggest sheepfarm around and some turkey and chicken farms that hire a good part of the population. The village started to grow slowly some 5 years ago, when a feedmill was built in the vicinity. Today they asked for independance and the Administrtaion Office in Lakestead granted their demand to become a new independant municipality.
Holland is very scenic, just below the Mount Totem in the Maybee County in the upper left of the regional map.
Maybe one day a nice hotel will find its way to the area, that also holds one of the highest small waterfalls already known as the Totemfalls. Only a small hikingtrail gives access to the wonderfall cold water falls, which also offers a great view of the winding river and the whole flats of Access. We get to that later.

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The county of Maybee, named after the immense quantity of bees found in the area during the warm month of May, still has a lot of forests, some of them hard to reach for the moment. The village is the highest situated municipality of the region so far.

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Again, that's it, hope you enjoyed the story and/or the pictures. I will shortly be back with more of the regional news and developments around Access. We also get to see some new places, such as Holland and its scenic mountainfalls and a place called Brokentree, that is out in the east somewhere where the highway 15 is about to hit solid land again after the Ganoga bridges and continue towards the neighboring region, plus three new characters coming to town. Bob Mangarten from Bordertown (new to Simland), Anne Bradley from Goosebay and Dirk Kujit from Kujit in the Nardician Isles will become part of the story. (the last two places can be found on the link below)

Have a nice weekend ;)

Fred


Complete Simland's Map as reference to find the details, towns and regions of the Winding River Story (all white rectangles represent a region that I have and play with for this MD)

http://img580.imageshack.us/img580/1553/6910simlandmap.png

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on July 29, 2011, 03:17:40 PM
love the new town Freddie :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on July 29, 2011, 06:13:43 PM
I'm not usually one who really likes altered SC4 pictures. The game as it is stands out enough to not need alteration to make it look good. However, the effect that's achieved in 75.07 really works for me. The details that fill the area seem to be enhanced by the angle of the image.

Sorry to see the dam area closing off to the public, but then again, I'm not sure I'd want to be eating the fish that live in the waters at the lower end of the dam. That water looks a bit off, even while being fed from the dam.

I like the downtown core in 75.10. It's really changed over the years, and the development looks very natural. Interesting to hear that the incoming crop of attorneys are part of the renovation catalyst. While I'm thinking about it, I'm not sure I recall having seen the courthouse for the area.

Fine month you've spent here for OSITM Fred. Nice work, and I'm looking forward to seeing what's next.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 29, 2011, 09:45:47 PM
NASCAR_Guy, glad to see you again here, starting to wonder.... ??? Thanks.

Hey Matt, thanks for the comment. I never, or let's say hardly ever use special effects on my pictures. What you see in pic 75.01 to 75.07 are the colours of the game, no effects nor any photoshopping (except for the writing.
Like you, I do not see any reason to alter the pics, they look almost better as they come than photoshopped.
I have mentioned once before somewhere that there is a courtroom in the Townhall and a small prison, some cells, in the Police's basement also. The problem of a missing courthouse is on my list for the next update. I heard that the lawyers, prosecutors and judges are starting to nag about the fact that the room inside the townhall is getting a little too small for all the new lawcases coming in. It will be an interesting update and Mayor Bartlett has a foot somewhere in trouble......Hint: Spending the taxmoney for something they don't really need is not always wise, especially when a courthouse and other things are becoming an emergency.

Thanks again.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Ramona Brie on July 29, 2011, 09:56:51 PM
Have you considered the NAM retexture mod? To see your roads as they are reminds me too much of vanilla SC4.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on July 29, 2011, 10:47:10 PM
Fantastic update! Thats some of THE best detailing I've seen in a long time! I've got this watermod you're using, and I'm learning how to detail even more, and these pictures of yours are like a lesson in themself  &apls

Holland looks like it could be prime camping area, with all the lovely nature surrounding it.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rjet13 on July 30, 2011, 11:26:39 AM
Well, I have been a lurker on the forums for awhile, but I just saw the need to respond here.  I have read all of this, and I can say that this is the most detailed MD I've seen for a map of this size.  Even taking the time to draw up the map of the country shows me how dedicated you are to this.  The story line is very creative and unique.  I was wondering if I could have a character in the story?  Maybe you could PM me what I would need to send to have a character added, if that is possible?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on July 30, 2011, 01:30:24 PM
Looking forward to seeing the update. Mayor Bartlett is making some bold moves. Should be interesting to see them all on the table.

As for the pictures, the colors of the game do indeed stand out. Have the perspective/dimensions of the picture been altered? the "viewing angle" as it were, seems a bit different in them from other images.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 30, 2011, 08:28:59 PM
Quote from: rjet13 on July 30, 2011, 11:26:39 AM
Maybe you could PM me what I would need to send to have a character added, if that is possible?

A PM with all the info needed to become a godfather/mother of a character in this story has been sent. Welcome to the WRP (Winding River Project)


Quote from: threestooges on July 30, 2011, 01:30:24 PM
As for the pictures, the colors of the game do indeed stand out. Have the perspective/dimensions of the picture been altered? the "viewing angle" as it were, seems a bit different in them from other images.

Colours, dimensions, perspectives, nor the angles of these pictures have been altered, but as you say, they look different, now that I myself had a good look at them. Allt hese pictures came right out of the SC4 Album and were, as usual, resized and transformed to jpeg's with irfanview. I guess it might be the colours of these mayorplops or props I was using together with my watertexture who causes this effect.

fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Gringamuyloca on July 31, 2011, 10:59:32 AM
I chuckled to myself when I saw the map in 75.02... looks like the map of my life!  :shocked2:  ;D

Sounds like the Ganoga Boys are having quite the adventure and the way you describe it, I think it must be from places you have known in your RL travels.

I agree with threestooges about 75.10 ... it is a fantastic picture with a 'unique' perspective... gotta love 'happy accidents'
and with lak47
QuoteThats some of THE best detailing I've seen in a long time

Along with your engaging writing, another thing I really enjoy about your MD is the fact that you don't photoshop everything.  :thumbsup: It's nice to see photos presented 'naturel'.

Sad happenstance out at Finger Lake...
QuoteWell, that's the way it goes. It takes one incident and then everything will be changed and secured while freedom is slowly diminishing for everyone.
Strange how the 'safer' we become, the more 'constrictive' life can be.  ()what()  ???

I'm loving the sheep farm in Holland... perfect scale in this view for sure!

Thanks for sharing the local gossip... ()stsfd()  it's made for a satisfying read on a dreary weekend.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 31, 2011, 01:38:03 PM
Quote from: Gringamuyloca on July 31, 2011, 10:59:32 AM
I chuckled to myself when I saw the map in 75.02... looks like the map of my life!  :shocked2:  ;D

Well, I don't know if you saw the complete regional map yet, but here are two in x-large sizes, very detailed.

this is a 1965 map, detailed...
http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/2638/1965windingrivervalleyn.png

this is a 1966 map...
http://img600.imageshack.us/img600/8523/wrp1966.png

..and soon a 1967 map will be uploaded.

Talking about maps and regional pictures. This is the regional map of the Capitol City, Lakestead, also giant sized. We talk a lot of it during the story, it is where the Simland Administration Offices are.

http://www.imgnook.com/7FKo.png



Once finished all the regions that take part of this MD, I will upload all the 13 maps, which can be seen on the map (simland) below. Regions that I play in for this MD are in white framed rectangles. There's three missing, not yet finished the regions. &Thk/(
All my regions are totally handmade (tile by tile) and very few (2 only) downloaded and severely terraformed to my likings.

simland map
http://img580.imageshack.us/img580/1553/6910simlandmap.png

The regions that are part of this MD (Winding River Project) are:

- Bluebay
- Snake River Bay
- Nardician Islands
- Goose Bay
- Lakefield
- Winding River (the Main map for this MD)
- Sandom
- Chadelaine
- Isle Lake (which is the source of the Winding River)
- Frampton and Beecherfalls
- Reverant
- Winding River Outlet
- St-Halo and Roy

I am working on an update that should hopefully be ready by the next weekend.
The Ganoga boys will meet Steve Gibson in an unexpected way and who
came and brought supplies with his hydroplane, then Slye is building a railroad? Hm...?
A new road comes in from the east coast (from the Winding River Outlet) through the mountains and 3 4 new characters have their first appearance in the story.
Plus a bonus look at the waterfalls in Holland, just a tiny glimpse though. ;)

Have a nice week and/or vacation
Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on August 01, 2011, 05:16:16 AM
Great 75th update there! And the region(s) are all beautiful!!!
Looking forward to the next update...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Reikhardt on August 01, 2011, 02:58:45 PM
Those nature scenes are fantastic. Given me an urge to create some more river scenes myself  ::)  &apls  &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on August 02, 2011, 06:51:08 PM
The story keeps getting better every week, even though I'm more of a lurker now, I'm still around.. ;)

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on August 04, 2011, 06:42:53 PM
I love seeing these settlements grow into villages, grow into towns, and now grow into cities!

And still, the natural areas are pristine too!

Keep up the good work!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on August 06, 2011, 07:52:29 AM
Quote from: mrbisonm on July 29, 2011, 09:45:47 PM
NASCAR_Guy, glad to see you again here, starting to wonder.... ??? Thanks.

SC4 has been pretty much unplayable for me lately (Keeps crashing after about 5 years in game) :'(

So I haven't had much interest in it lately :(
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on August 09, 2011, 04:00:27 PM
Is that farmland on the East side of Willow Ponds in the '66 map? Guess that bridge is finally getting finished.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on August 10, 2011, 06:30:17 PM
bat, yes, 75 th update already and not even 10 % of the region developped.....hm..... Thanks for leaving a comment. ;)

Reikhardt, if you upload pictures of your river scenes, let me know with a linkie. ;)

KoV Liberty, like I said before, lurker or not, as long as you leave a comment once in awhile, your character Alex Puto and Vito Scaletta will keep on being in the story. Rumours are that Vito has become friends with that Johnny B.Badd....like I said....rumours....  ::)

CabraBuitre, Thanks, hope you like the way Patrick Westwood has taken the charge of the group that discovers the Ganoga Wilderness. ;)

NASCAR_Guy, I understand, a continous crashing game can be frustrating. It happened to me before and it took me months of gathering the "courage" to decide to make a general clean-up in my plugins to find the problem. Good luck, glad to see though here and there. Racsan will be in the next update, but not always good news make the first page..... :( Michael Truex however, starts getting his things going.  :thumbsup:

frostwolf, Greg Badger is debting himself in, it seems....lol. I wonder what he's up to with all that new land he bought.
Yes, on the 1966 map eastward of the Willow Ponds is some partial farmland, the first year that agriculture is invading the other side of the lakes. Well, it will be said in the next update, if or if not the bridge has been finished, but I know that machinery is already crossing it to start the other bridges on the far end of the Ganoga waters. I included a small glimpse of that area, (picture below) the way it looks now, as of June 1967.

I am on vacation right now, having fun fishing, swimming in the lake, sleeping, eating well etc, then next week, I will be gone for a couple of days for a real vacation (hotel, again doing some fishing, sleeping, eating well and swimming in the pool this time...lol...what a life). But surely after that, an update will be uplaoded with some new characetrs and some "wild" info of the region. ;)
Have a nice week ya all.

Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg543.imageshack.us%2Fimg543%2F571%2Fwrp45.jpg&hash=41884871dad8f2fc32e04b92e91c62cf05679f1d)


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nbvc on August 10, 2011, 09:24:55 PM
Great updates. I like the lakes and the hydrodam. &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on August 12, 2011, 09:04:16 AM
Quote from: mrbisonm on August 10, 2011, 06:30:17 PM
KoV Liberty, like I said before, lurker or not, as long as you leave a comment once in awhile, your character Alex Puto and Vito Scaletta will keep on being in the story. Rumours are that Vito has become friends with that Johnny B.Badd....like I said....rumours....  ::)

Cool, Johnny? Whats he up to now?

Edit:

Welcome to Page 66 of The Winding River Project!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on August 12, 2011, 02:30:50 PM
nbvc, thanks for dropping in again.


Quote from: KoV Liberty on August 12, 2011, 09:04:16 AM
Cool, Johnny? Whats he up to now?

Johnny needs to make a lot of §§'s. Vito has a lot and also has the connection, the rest.....well, just wait for the second next update. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Ol.S / Benoit on August 13, 2011, 12:01:18 AM
Your flora work is always amazing and inspiring !  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on August 13, 2011, 02:29:36 AM
Very nice work on that region!
And looking forward to more of it...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on August 13, 2011, 08:28:24 AM
Thanks Benoit and bat for the compliments, much appreciated.

So that you guys won't think that I abandonned, I just got back from vacation, had a nice time and still two days (weekend) to go to relax at home. Meanwhile I renewed the Simland Map, added some more details and all the regions that I actually play with (white rectangles and squares)
There will be an introduction of some more characters and a couple of new regions that will take part of the Winding River Project story in the next update, most probably before the next weekend. ;)

Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F2665%2Flargesimlandmap.png&hash=8ff5d3d0bc5476560bceac7ff01369550446f189)

The direct link ...

http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/2665/largesimlandmap.png

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Gringamuyloca on August 13, 2011, 11:19:40 AM
Glad to learn you are enjoying your downtime.  :thumbsup: I am off to meet the newest grandchild this weekend.  ;D

Looking forward to learning more about the other communities in Simland... and how they become part of the Winding River story.  "$Deal"$ ( and what about the Ganoga Boys?)

Cheers!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: ricardomiranda on August 14, 2011, 02:45:35 PM
I like the greenery, very good combination!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on August 15, 2011, 02:29:54 PM
Mrbisnm: Interesting..... How do you do the Simoleons thing in the text btw?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on August 17, 2011, 07:55:13 PM
Quote from: Gringamuyloca on August 13, 2011, 11:19:40 AM
Glad to learn you are enjoying your downtime.  :thumbsup: I am off to meet the newest grandchild this weekend.  ;D

Looking forward to learning more about the other communities in Simland... and how they become part of the Winding River story.  "$Deal"$ ( and what about the Ganoga Boys?)

Cheers!

Grandchild...lucky you, I have three boys and all over 30, not one grandchild yet....lol.  :(

The Ganoga Boys will be in the second next update. ;)

Quote from: ricardomiranda on August 14, 2011, 02:45:35 PM
I like the greenery, very good combination!

Thanks, it was a lot of .......no, not work,...but fun.

Quote from: KoV Liberty on August 15, 2011, 02:29:54 PM
Mrbisnm: Interesting..... How do you do the Simoleons thing in the text btw?

§§§'s are done with ALT+21 on the numberpad, right side on your keyboard, at least my § are done like this. I can also  make them with ALT+245.
Do a search on google for *keyboard signs*, there's dozens of them.... ;)


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nemanjanv7 on August 25, 2011, 01:47:09 AM
Hi MrBisonM,
I wrote you a PM yesterday about those Bats that I wold really like to use  :D .
Here are the pictures as you asked:
1. http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/4940/9lakesteadcountydinofou.jpg (http://[url=http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/4940/9lakesteadcountydinofou.jpg)]click here: Neatly stacked wood, those sand cones, plopable construction workers and construction equipment, highway under construction (do you by any chance have railway under construction)...
2. http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/5461/5lakesteadcountyrestos.jpg (http://[url=http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/5461/5lakesteadcountyrestos.jpg)]click here: Restaurant, the fenced vehicle lot
3. http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/8324/16grasslakechalet2.jpg (http://[url=http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/8324/16grasslakechalet2.jpg)]click here: SHACKS on the left side of the picture house under construction and those stacked planks.
4. click here (http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/630/3grasslakewestracsangat.jpg): Gate


Thank you very much your region looks incredible and your bats even more. I would need many more, but I guess that would just be unfair.
nemanjanv7@yahoo.com


Thanks again
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on August 25, 2011, 01:02:27 PM
I am working hard for the next update, so don't worry if it will take awhile. We will have four new characters coming and I would like to finish the regions (or at least have them advanced) where they come from, because there's a small story with each one of them. After this update, the next ones will be a little quicker. Thanks.


nemanjanv7, first of all delete your email adress in your post and next time send it in a PM, thanks. (for your own safety)

Then, the pictures I cannot see, the links don't seem to work for me.
Just tell me the number shown above on the left of the pictures, example: 75.03 or something like this, or tell me the MD/CJ page and the what picture, so I can find what your looking for.
It will be a pleasure to send you these bats/lots. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nemanjanv7 on August 25, 2011, 01:20:34 PM

Hmh, strange that you couldn't see them  &ops .
I can't those numbers but I will tell you the PAGE number

page 9: Sandom county
page 10: Access Junction
page 11: Access Junction - the restaurant


So basically I need neatly stacked wood, stacked planks, plopable construction sets, highway and if you by any chance have railway construction (but I didn't see it on the pictures), houses under construction, shacks. Anything else that you thing is interesting for construction projects is very welcome.


Sorry for the trouble, and thank you very much.
nemanjanv7@yahoo.com
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on August 26, 2011, 12:40:30 PM
Quote from: nemanjanv7 on August 25, 2011, 01:47:09 AM
Hi MrBisonM,
I wrote you a PM yesterday about those Bats that I wold really like to use  :D .
Here are the pictures as you asked:
1. http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/4940/9lakesteadcountydinofou.jpg (http://[url=http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/4940/9lakesteadcountydinofou.jpg)]click here: Neatly stacked wood, those sand cones,(Private Nexis bats/lots, will send them later) plopable construction workers (these are simply mayorplops that I downloaded from somewhere which I cannot remember at the moment) and construction equipment, (simpegs, mayor construction ploppables available at his site) highway under construction (do you by any chance have railway under construction)...(these are Private Nexis lots/bats, will send them to you later this weekend, including rail lots)2. http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/5461/5lakesteadcountyrestos.jpg (http://[url=http://img24.imageshack.us/img24/5461/5lakesteadcountyrestos.jpg)]click here: Restaurant, the fenced vehicle lot. (Private Nexis Lot, send later)
3. http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/8324/16grasslakechalet2.jpg (http://[url=http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/8324/16grasslakechalet2.jpg)]click here: SHACKS on the left side of the picture house under construction and those stacked planks. (Private Nexis bats/lots, will send them later)4. click here (http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/630/3grasslakewestracsangat.jpg): Gate (Private Nexis lot, will send it later, you will have to find its dependency "the gate" by yourself though)


Thank you very much your region looks incredible (Thank You) and your bats even more. I would need many more (little at a time please, once in awhile, ok?),  but I guess that would just be unfair.
nemanjanv7@yahoo.com


Thanks again

I will send you the above mentioned lots, most of them are from my private Nexis Collection. Included will be a dozen or so Highway/road construction lots and bats, also some for rail. I see what I can find concerning the construction lots and I hope that you have a big e-mail box....lol. Give  me a few days, hopefully this weekend I will find the time. ;)
Keep in mind that these sent unique Nexis lots and bats are for private use only and under no condition never to be redistributed, not even privately. When people ask you where you got them from, refer them to me please. I am more than willing to share my creations under the respect of privacy and conditions mentioned above. Hope that you'll respect this. If not respected, results will be sad for all players who ask me for Nexis lots/bats and the person judged guilty for not respecting my request, will be put up against the wall and ****. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nemanjanv7 on August 26, 2011, 04:06:24 PM
Hey thanks a bunch. Don't worry I'll keep it private (I'll even put it in folder "Top secret" and lock it  ;D )

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on August 26, 2011, 09:54:10 PM
Quote from: nemanjanv7 on August 26, 2011, 04:06:24 PM
Hey thanks a bunch. Don't worry I'll keep it private (I'll even put it in folder "Top secret" and lock it  ;D )

Ok, sounds good, but name the folder "Nexis"....kinda sounds better than "topsecret". ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nemanjanv7 on August 27, 2011, 01:32:54 AM
It was a joke ;)
Were it really top secret everyone would be too curious  ;)


Tanks again, and for such great stuff I can wait ass long as it takes. No pressure. Whenever you find time  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on August 27, 2011, 11:23:14 AM
Quote from: nemanjanv7 on August 27, 2011, 01:32:54 AM
It was a joke ;)

;)  I know....btw, nice sig. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nemanjanv7 on August 27, 2011, 01:30:16 PM
 ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: io_bg on August 28, 2011, 09:55:25 AM
I love these nature shots - they're so realistic :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on September 08, 2011, 07:23:24 PM
Sorry for having you wait so long, but the rendering of my Modern Farm Proppack is taking all the computertime that I have. Besides there was quite a clean-up to do after Hurricane Irene, a lot of fallen trees on my "driveway" which is almost one km long.
Now I'm taking a break, midtime rendering, half is done.....geeez, is that ever long to do....

Glad you like it io_bg.

Back to the story of the Winding River, hope you haven't forgotten it...




Update 76

Where have all the trees gone?             


Saturday, June 10th, 1967
                           Today on this date ... then:

-
- 1190 – Third Crusade: Frederick I Barbarossa drowns in the river Saleph while leading an army to Jerusalem.
- 1786 – A landslide dam on the Dadu River created by an earthquake ten days earlier collapses, killing 100,000 in the Sichuan province of China.
- 1886 – Mount Tarawera in New Zealand erupts, killing 153 people and destroying the famous Pink and White Terraces.
-
[/size]


It is Saturday morning, the writer of the Access Tribune, Charles M. Johnson, is publishing his first part of the series " Access's Environment", mentioning this time the disappearance of hundreds and hundreds of acres of forest that once roamed the southwestern part of the region. It wasn't really noticed by anyone until the owner of the big sawmill,Timberlog Inc of Slye, mentioned in a review that Access and it's surroundings wasn't of any interest to him anymore because of the lack of standing lumber.
Writer Johnson immediatley went out with his camera and took some pictures of the "treeless" region. He was surprized what he saw.
What happened? Everyone wonders and not many bothered yet. Farmlands have totally invaded the surrounding big town of almost 120,000 citizens. Cutting down the forests gave the farmers the land needed to cultivate and the lumber paid partially the preparing of the ground for crops beneath the once rich virgin forest.
On this aerial picture of the Access area, we can clearly see the devastation that logging and farming has left behind. No wonder that Access is today considered as one of the most fruitful and agricultural productive region in Simland. The river valley of course contains the best fertile land available. Only the southern hills and the Grasslake area, which is mostly owned by Tony Racsan anyways, still have little patches of untouched forests. Even West River and Phlox is being cleared. Doesn't anyone really notice what is happening?
Slye doesn't think this way, telling folks after he emptied a forest, that farms are even better than forest, they produce food and jobs for the Sims, quite necessary to simkind. Good point, but.....

76.01
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg847.imageshack.us%2Fimg847%2F9248%2F7601access25.jpg&hash=981ee28798fc71c93b9bc77d248829553269c86c)

This is just one example how sparce the treegrowth in the Access vicinity has become. This part of Access below, which is just east of the new airport,has become a place where even cattle is looking for shade. Offically called *Low Forest*, new visiters are demanding why it is called so, since no trees are to be seen. Here once stood a lot of mature fir and sprucetrees down to the grand river's banks. Of course since agricultural land was almost given away by the federal Government in the last decade, simfarmers litterally invaded the place, making it a farming heaven on these fertile grounds.
Johnson wrote in his report in the Access Tribune, that one could actually count all individual trees in this county within an hour.

76.02
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Another good example is the east part of Access, the eastern suburbs. Here also one could count the remaning trees, except those who grow on residential lots. If it wasn't for the treeplantation of the Hover farm, than less than a dozen or so trees could be counted in the countryside of the northeastern suburbs of Access. Shame. Only trees near roadditches were left standing. One older sim in the area lately said: "If I would have wanted to stay in a place without trees, then I would have moved to Saskatchewan. This place is starting to look like it.", remembering the time when dense forests were a regular sight outside the suburbs.

76.03
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Only about three years ago, the same area looked like this, still some fields separated with several forested lots. A nice site to every simly eye, at the time.

76.04
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We have 4 new characters in the story coming, which are:

- Bob Mangarten by jmyers2043
- Anne Bradley by Gringamuyloca
- Dirk Kujit by lak47
- Trent Michaels by rjet13
Let's introduce them....

When having lost his job with the local phone company in Bordertown,( http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?board=326.0 ) of his hometown, Bob Mangarten, born in 1921, decided to move to Access Center with his family and start a new life. His wife Rose, since 1944, gave birth to his daughter Brooke in 1951 and his son Brett in 1955.
It wasn't long that Bob found a new job in Sandom, some 25 miles south from Access, at the local phone Company, again as an offical repairman. The Company is Hexcom and it also owns the phonelines in Access and Phlox.
Bob knew the area of the Winding River before, because of a friend who lives here since 12 years, Adrian McCoy, who he worked with for a few years in Bordertown, before the town got divided by separatists. Bob came visiting Adrian and Access sometimes in the past and started to like the region. Now that he is moving, he is about to find a nice little appartment and settle in.
Born in 1935 on Chadelaine Island, Trent Michaels is moving to Phlox on his early retirement as a Naval Captain. He had no ambitions to become an Admiral, which was offered to him several times when he was Captain on a naval cruiser. But as an experienced Commander in the Vietnam war, he was quite welcomed in the Westriver armybase, which accepted him gladly as a naval consultant for the base. The base needed such an experienced man to handle the new plans for a navy harbour in the future.
Single, he came to the Winding River region because of its beauty and still wild side, and of course because of the Mighty Winding River, which seems to be of special interest to him. His plans are to open a small Marina of some kind, giving a little competition to Miss Panskyy on Phlox Island, renting smaller boats for fishing and rivervisits, maybe even a small *Bateau mouche* (promenade boat) like the ones he saw last year in Paris, France.

76.05
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Trent came from the downtown area of the only city of the Chadelaine Island, but now as he is retired, he will most likely enjoy more the wilderness part of Simland in the Winding River Region.

76.06
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Not far south of the Winding River Region, is where Miss Anne Bradley came from. Born in Goosebay in 1934, a very small agricultural village on the coast which seemed to have stood still in time, and which lives mostly of agriculture, some other small industries and a little from commercial fishing, Annie, as we will call her, now 33, is drawn to the Access area because of the good sportsfishing that has become of new interest in the area for several anglers. The Winding River is plenty of different fishspecies and also quite close to the coast as we can see it on the Simland map (link below). Sportsfishing just started to get to be known in the area and this is only the beginning of a rich enjoyable fishing experience.
Annie also likes the nature part of Simland, just like Trent Michaels and what a better place than Phlox and outside of Access.

76.07
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Coming from the Goosebay area, Miss Bradley of course knows all about the great brown trout fishing in the Goose river that joins the sea near the village. These trouts were imported from Germany before the war and found an ideal place to reproduce themselves in the river. Annie used to help the seafishermen that the village has a few of, in her teenage years, and then started as a part-time truckdriver to get to know the Simland Nation. In her late twenties she bought her own truck and a second one only two years later. Having hired a good driver, he was working just fine until the guy found a cute little girl in Lakefield and stayed there, while he was delivering lumber from Slye's mills. Now Annie wants to move to Access or Phlox where the action is and of course a lot more work, maybe a little home on the countryside, something with a small garden in the backyard and a garage big enough to handle both her International and Western Star and maybe find a new local driver for her second tractor. She heard that Access is doubling the amount of industry in the next two years, what an excellent occasion to offer her services of transport.

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And at last, not least, Dirk Kujit from the southern Nardician islands. Born on the island of his ancestors, Kujit Island, in 1943, he grew up there and later moved to Bluebay after he reached his 19 years. Kujit Island is well known for the good seafishing and most of the habitants earn their life there this way. Once a military outpost, the Nardician islands supply the Simland fishmarkets with 75 % of seafood now, well understandable when we say that it is the fishing nation of Simland.
Dirk, now in his twenties, is working his bum off on a small fishing boat in the harbour of Bluebay, the trades that he learned well from his father, who still has a fishing boat on the island. He wanted away from the islands, become independant from his parents and see and live the city first, so Bluebay was the best alternative, but he likes the countryside more he found out the hard way, a bit savage or most natural and rural way of spending his life. Coming form a fisherman's family since several generations, he already knows all about fishing and is very welcomed as an experienced help on the mainland's coast. Finding a job is no problem for him.
Lately he came across the Grasslake area, when he somehow got lost while driving to Phlox for a job interview, and he loved the area of the Winding River, which he knew was only a few miles away from the coast. That gave him an idea, which we will have the pleasure to experience with him in the next few years.

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To find or situate the regions mentioned above in my Simland, please look here:
http://img580.imageshack.us/img580/1553/6910simlandmap.png

That's it for the introduction of the four "newcomers" to the region and story. We will be back shortly with the "Ganoga Kids" and their voyage around the swamps, we also talk about and visit the new bridges over the Ganoga outlet, a place called Brokentree and of course a lot of new pictures from around and beyond the Winding River Region including some interesting stories of our Winding River Heros. ;)

I will soon talk about ALL the regions that I have prepared for the Simland Nation. I have two consecutive updates reserved with all the details of each region, except Access Center of course which we already know quite well, explaining the connections with the Winding River Region and their economy and history. We will even make a few visits to their special places . There are still some regions to finish, such as the Nardician Isles, so it may take a little while. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on September 08, 2011, 08:39:31 PM
Y'know, it's updates like these that really show why this MD is so good. We're focused on Access and Phlox and the surrounding area, but new characters are introduced from far flung cities and, not only do we get their back story, we get pictures of whole cities developed to show their hometown. Cities we may not likely see again, yet have details and distinct personalities. Nice work Fred.

Now, as far as Slye's activities, if it takes you as long as an hour to count the trees, I think his crews were slacking off when they went through there, heh heh. It'll be interesting to see what the demand for wood does though as growth begins to move upward instead of as much outward.

Also, looking forward to the airport. Interesting how it is that some places tend to be named for what used to be there. Roads like "Quail Glen" named for the birds that used to be there before the area was paved. However, in this case, I think "Low Forest" may be accurate as the forest has indeed been cut low.

Looking forward to the next update.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on September 09, 2011, 06:21:29 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on September 08, 2011, 07:23:24 PM
... When having lost his job with the local phone company in Bordertown,( http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?board=326.0 ) of his hometown, Bob Mangarten, born in 1921, decided to move to Access Center with his family and start a new life. His wife Rose, since 1944, gave birth to his daughter Brooke in 1951 and his son Brett in 1955....

Hey Fred. I know what you mean about Bob's job in Bordertown. It became utterly unfulfilling in such small increments that he almost didn't notice.

First there were the policy changes. Mandatory use of road cones when working near busy intersections. Then the safety glove rules to prevent shock. I mean, the unexpected shock was one of those things that kept him on his toes for those 20 years of fixing phone circuits. The ability to determine the difference between wire colors as a required skill? So who cares if one connects the black wire where the red wire should go. Give me a break.

Then the separatist phone company reduced his lunch hour from 60 to 30 minutes last October. In and of itself I suppose that wasn't really terrible. Until they considered the five different job title changes. 'Phone Technician' – 'Audible wired circuit engineer' – then came 'Voice over Internet Protocol Specialist' as the analog phone circuits got replaced by digital. This meant that he had to buy his own computer for work. The only enjoyable part of his job after that was surfing around SC4Devotion while waiting for the central office to send ring voltage down the line. Then Bob got roped into doing expense reports when his supervisor discovered that he had computer skills. Can anyone say humdrum?

Bob has a great job now working in Access Center near Three River Region. He'll share some of his experiences in the near future (whenever Fred thinks them up, that is) ...



- Jim

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on September 09, 2011, 06:41:21 PM
Excellent as always! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on September 09, 2011, 10:09:11 PM
What a great update this is!! I like how the simpulation is beginning to become aware of the environmental issues that are slowly taking root. And will do more as the simpulation goes up.

Kujit Island is just wonderful. Perfect setting for a fishing village  &apls Kujit needs his instruments all the time, or he even could manage to get lost in his own house  $%Grinno$%

Looking forward to the Ganoga boys story.

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rjet13 on September 09, 2011, 11:05:49 PM
Nice introduction for all of the new characters.  The new regions...well, they're astounding!  I really like Trent's hometown in Chadelaine, Baykersfield, and Kujit Island, of course.  I love all of the detailing and the multiple regions you do.  That is what makes this a great MD, without a doubt.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nedalezz on September 10, 2011, 08:34:40 AM
LOVED the update, and its soooo good to see you back and updating!

Cant wait to read more about our local mobster! ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on September 21, 2011, 10:59:30 PM
I'm still pretty stunned by all the back-work... creating extra regions for where the new people are from?  Crazy!

But we're not complaining  ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on September 22, 2011, 08:35:19 PM
Hey Thanks everyone, it is comments like this I like. Thanks.

I have been busy rendering my farm buildings, half of it is finished and the other half is started. You can see more details in my Nexis Works BATthread. That is why I have been absent for awhile in this section.
Give me another week or so and the story will continue with some more interesting facts, another mystery and some nice pics. ;)

Thanks again for the interesting and encouraging comments you all have given. Be back soon. Meanwhile have a look at the new modern barns coming soon.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Gringamuyloca on September 24, 2011, 08:44:59 PM
... heh heh.. I have arrived!... :thumbsup:

Looking forward (as always) to your stories as well as your latest custom content...

... as well as hooking the next 'big one'!  ;D

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on September 27, 2011, 08:40:11 PM

I don't really have the time, nor the courage to explain this in details, but here is my message which I sent by e-mail to all my family and friends...take care, be back soon. ;)

«« To my family and my friends on facebook: This weekend I was diagnosed with a severe case of "Acute Pancreatitis" and spent a few days in the hospital for stabilization. Now I am temporarily back home, sick as ever, until they can find place for me for the long testing and "healing" of the attack. These days we have a sloooow action time in our hospitals in Quebec. So, it could be that I will be gone for some time from the internet, but don't worry, I will survive this also, just as I did the Streptocochus A type, my heart-attack, the asthma attacks, the diabetics and all the other stuff I experienced in my little lifetime. Don't foget, I'm a purebred ********* (Falconheart translated from the Viking origin) and we've been around since 1162. I should be back online soon enough and stir up some fun together with you all. Oh....btw, please do NOT do anything that I wouldn't do while I'm gone , ye hear? Take care.
Please do not overfill unnecesserily my e-mail address with your funny and interesting things you send until I'm back. Thanks.
Fred»»
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: marsh on September 27, 2011, 09:03:25 PM
Very very sad to hear. :( I hope you get back on your feet soon and that everything goes well. I honestly don't know what else to say. So I'll end with a cliche', Get well soon. :) Please.

,marsh
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Getron on September 28, 2011, 12:35:56 AM
Yes, very sad to heat this  :( Hope to see you back soon. Get well soon. You will be mist.

Getron
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on September 28, 2011, 12:42:08 AM
Quote from: mrbisonm on September 27, 2011, 08:40:11 PM
Please do not overfill unnecesserily my e-mail address with your funny and interesting things you send until I'm back. Thanks.
Can we fill your MD here with posts instructing you to take care of yourself and to get well soon?

Thanks for letting us know Fred, and please keep us posted.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Swordmaster on September 28, 2011, 02:29:28 AM
Wow, no one would hope to hear anything like that. I wish you good healthcare and a speedy recovery!

All the best,
Willy
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on September 28, 2011, 02:40:29 AM
Ho Fred,

This comes as a kind of shock.

Well, what can I do, sitting here at the other side of the Atlantic?
I'd say: play around with your models a bit more and especially: wishing you a very quick and good recovery. I hope there are people around you who can actually help you with spending your time and making the best of it.

We will wait until you feel better again. All the best from the Netherlands. And a ()flower()

Best regards,

Frank
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on September 28, 2011, 06:29:01 PM
Wow, I wish you a speedy recovery Fred. Hope you get well soon!

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Gringamuyloca on October 01, 2011, 10:44:35 AM
Quote from: mrbisonm on September 27, 2011, 08:40:11 PM
Don't foget, I'm a purebred ********* (Falconheart translated from the Viking origin) and we've been around since 1162.

With that in mind, you'll be back on your feet soon I am sure!  ;D

()flower()
Take good care Fred... you are missed already!  &bis&
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: ricardomiranda on October 02, 2011, 07:09:35 PM
I hope your recovery is short and that you return quickly to live with us here in SC4 "
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on October 02, 2011, 10:27:43 PM
Woah Fred!! Take care. Get well soon! :) :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on October 06, 2011, 04:36:47 PM
take care of yourself, fred. we'll be here when you get back
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: canyonjumper on October 06, 2011, 06:45:58 PM
Get better soon Fred, have a quick recovery.

           Your friend,
                          Jordan :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on October 16, 2011, 10:57:18 AM
Thank You all for being concerned.  :)
I'm back, somewhat tired but not too bad. I still will have to go back and take more tests since they (health department) didn't find out why I had that severe pancreatitis.
Now I'm more or less ok, just have to watch what and how much I am eating.
Hey thanks for all the nice wishes to get better, that surely must have helped. ;) Ready to go on with the story ?


Update 77

Regions of Simland...Part 1             


Monday, June 12th, 1967
                           Today on this date ... then:

-
- 1665 – England installs a municipal government in New York City.
- 1898 – Philippine Declaration of Independence: General Emilio Aguinaldo declares the Philippines' independence from Spain.
- 1967 – The United States Supreme Court in Loving v. Virginia declares all U.S. state laws which prohibit interracial marriage to be unconstitutional.
- 1994 – The Boeing 777, the world's largest twinjet, makes its first flight.
- Born: 1924 – George H. W. Bush, 41st President of the United States
- Died: 2003 – Gregory Peck, American actor (b. 1916)

[/size]

John Gabber meets Terry Slye on the mainstreet in downtown Access.
««" Geeez, where the heck were you in the last two weeks, haven't seen you around?" John asked his younger friend Slye.
" Well, I told you a month ago that I would be going to Montreal-Canada to see the 1967 Expo, and I liked it so much and decided to stay two weeks instead of one."
" So how was it?" John replied curiously.
" Great, just great, I saw a lot of things there. The world is getting smaller with these Expos, I even met some people from a country that I never heard of before. - Have I been missing something here?" Terry asked looking all around him.
" Nah, nothing happened here lately, we're all getting ready for the summer vacation with all that heat coming toward us in the next 6 weeks. Will you come to the pub on friday?"
" Yap, I missed those friday afternoons."
" Well, see you then, gotta find Alex now, where the hell could he be now..." John mumbled and turned away to go on with his quest of searching Alex Puto.»»

June 12th already, and it is true that summer is on the doorsteps with its heat. Rivers and lakes are already low and the Ganoga Boys have no problem to travel through the last few miles of their journey around the swamps. We will get back to them in the next update.

Today I would like to start with the first Part of a new series that I will show once in awhile and in between regular updates of the story. It is the introduction of all the regions that are included in this story, the regions of Simland.
As we can see below on the General Simland Map, we have 13 different regions that appear sometimes within the story, all in white rectangulars on the map. They are:

- Reverant
- Frampton and Beecherfalls
- Halo and Roy
- The Winding River, where the mainstory is told
- The Winding River Outlet or Radler's Islands
- Chadelaine Island
- Lakestead County (Capitol City)
- Milby Station
- Sandom
- Goosebay
- Bluebay
- Snake River
- Nardician Islands


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Some of these regions aren't completely finished yet, but with the time off the doctor told me to take, I will be able to do so before I get to the last one.
Today we will get to know Bluebay a little better, before we go on with the story of the Winding River Project next week.

Bluebay was discovered in early and founded in late 1712, by a Naval Captain Abraham Hewitt, who at the time was ordered by the King of the Simnation to gain more land of the continent. In these waters protected from heavy waves and winds by the Bergen Island, Capt Hewitt landed near the Eal river (near today's downtown) in the bay to establish a small camp for a few days, just enough time to punish four of his fellow shipmates that have stolen some of his favourite whiskey from his personal barrel. He named this place Bluebay because of the clear dark blue waters and which was later also officially named so, when a small Trading Post was established.
Bluebay soon became to be an important Exchange Post between the Aborigins and the new Sim Settlers and which later grew into a city of almost one million citizens. The city is known in our story because of the birthplace of the Gabber family, such as John and his brother Gary and of course the father, Henry Gabber, which still owns most of the Bergen Island. The Gabbers arrived here in the mid 17 hundreds and always stayed in the region, being active within the community, from Mayor to Cityplanner and Roadconstruction. Henry started the road construction Company when cars became available in the beginning of the 20th century and today it is divided into two parts which both of his sons, John and Gary, lead. Henry was the fist to build roads along the rivers to reach Elsewhere and Smuggler's Notch. Highway 15 was also one of his projects right after the second World War.

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Bluebay is a 4x4 medium tile region with only the maincity (upper left part) being on a large tile. It has 5 individual municipalities:....

- Bluebay City
- Dition
- Smuggler's Notch
- Ripton County
- St-Elsewhere


....and 3 Mayor Offices:

- Dition/Hewitt (Bluebay).....Mayor Johanna Riesling since 1962
- Elsewhere.....Mayor Nurabi Mentar since 1966
- Smuggler's Notch.....Mayor Barry White since 1967


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All five municipalities are governed by the Regional Office of Dition County on Bergen Island and 3 Mayor's Offices. The regional population in 1967 is 846,022 and slowly growing.
Industries are mostly made of manufacturers of daily uses, such as clothing, home appliances, general decorations, furniture, bicycles and tools. Bluebay is the only city that has an experimental Windpower station, producing approximately 3% of the city's total needed energy with 2 turbines situated in the windy bay of Bluebay. These were introduced in 1965 by a danish Company that is starting to experiment seriously with them to produce clean energy. The rest of the city's power is produced by a large coalpower plant, which is situated in the industrial part of the city's east. The coal comes mainly from the Reverant area, where most of the mines are, they are transported by train, but since a year they found some in and near the Stoke Mountains in the Winding River Region and this might become interesting since the Winding River region is only half as far from Bluebay and Lakefield as Reverant.
Bluebay doesn't actually have a harbour, however ferries and other ships are available for the crossing to Bergen Island and other smaller islands offshore. One ferry even goes twice daily to the Nardician Islands which are a little over 60 miles south-east into the Revera sea.
Here is a transportational map of the region:

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Characters of the story that came from Bluebay are:

John Gabber and his family from Dition
Gary Gabber and his family from Dition
Henry Gabber and his wife Marlene are from Dition
Terry S. Slye was born in Bluebay in 1939
Barby White's family is from Smuggler's Notch
Mike Allheimer was raised in Ripton
Gregory Badger, our soldier that growns veggies comes from Bluebay
and Nethaniel Wellington was raised in Bluebay.[/b]

Surprisingly quite a few members of today's Access Center came from the Bluebay region. Let's have a more detailed look now at the Bluebay's Region interest points. First we will go to the Maincity and also the largest of the region, Bluebay. The downtown is divided by the small Eal River that combines the Denzon and the Trinity river and ends its journey in the Revera Sea through this bay. Here is where Captain Abraham Hewitt landed in 1712 and took posession of the land in the name of the King. The city stayed small as a trading post with the United States and Canada for a very long time and started to grow bigger only in the late 19th century. So, buildings aren't that old around here, rather new, modern and clean.
Since a few years, Bluebay is having slight problems with the environment, which people though do not really care for yet at the moment. Street, and commercial wastes are still guided directly into the small river, which has slightly changed colour in some areas. But Bluebay in general is very beautiful and clean, the Bay's waters are clear, because the sea current takes everything out of the bay. The surrounding mountains are largely forested and logging has been fairly quiet here.
We can easily see one of the two Windturbines in Simland on the next picture, situated almost on the public beach of downtown. Highway 15, which ends up north into the Winding River Region and which is still under construction, also heads south down passed Snake River to the US. This highway will be the longest in Simland, once it will be finished near Access Center and connect the south with the very north. Living in the city of Bluebay is a bit expensive. Taxes are the highest in the country, towering a little over 14%. To keep the city alive, it was necessary to raise the taxes that much in the late fifties when a lot of the youth left Bluebay for other more productive cities up north and the city was about to die off. Today the city is stable, growing very slowly though.

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The two downtown bridges can become very busy during certain hours of the day. The city has planned to build another one just a few hundred yards upriver in the next three or four years. Gabber Inc will be responsable for the job. Plans are done and a few residential buildings will definively disappear with the construction, which does not please everyone.

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A nice place to live, right beside downtown and on the beach of the bay. A few residential towers for the slightly higher class of sims, became Bluebay's Landmark in the early sixties, only about 5 years ago. With private beaches on the bayside and access to downtown within 10 minutes by the local train, these appartments are some of the most expensive ones in the region. But unfortunetly the coast is mostly rocks and gravel in this part of the bay and nice beaches are almost inexistant in the Bluebay area anyways.

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Crystal clear waters surround the home of John Gabber. Once belonging to his father Henry, the small land (only about 1 acre/ ½ Ha) on this point on the Bergen Island became the wedding present to John and Mary in 1937. John always wanted a very futuristic home and he was one of the first to have him designed such a home.
The home was build on solid rock on the point reaching a few hundred yards right into the bay with a natural wave barrier. It is just beside the only bridge to the mainland where also a small marina has been installed a few years ago.
John seems to be home at the moment, his new hydroplane is there. Usually he travels with it wherever and whenever he can, like to his office in Frampton or Grasslake and Access to his weekend home or to the Capitol City of Lakestead where he can land right in downtown on Marble lake.
We remember of course that he crashed his first plane that he called proudly "Rusty Rover" into the Valmore lake a few years back. It is still there, somewhere resting on the bottom of it.

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Here we see the bay from a different angle. Downtown is on the left, while Bergen Island is on the right, The residential tower we see on the point of Bergen Island is one of Rundi Sterling's High-class appartment buildings. This one was built only 3 years ago. Sterling says to own 2 dozen or more of those buildings anywhere in the country.
We also see the second Windturbine which has been built for experimenting wind energy.
As I mentioned before, most of the mountain range of the Bergen Island still belongs to Henry Gabber. Everything that seems to be overgrown with forest is his land. He and his wife live on the mountain also, having a view of the city that many admire. They built their home in 1957, when Henry decided to slow down his presence at the Gabber Company.
People like John Gabber, Gary Gabber, his brother and his father Henry Gabber were all born in Bluebay. Bergen Island was once called Gabber Island. Also the soldier Gregory Badger and the Clubfood King in Access, Nethaniel Wellington came from Bluebay. The Wellington family is still around in these parts of Simland, mostly implicated in buisnesses such as Nethaniel. Badger's family originally came from the USA though, but Greg was born in Bluebay during the second World War in 1942. Another of our well known "Celebrities" is Terry Slye, the sawmill owner of Phlox, who was born right here in downtown Bluebay. His father worked for the railroad in the city's maintenance station, when Slye developped his love for rails and trains at an early age. He left home at the age of 17, about the time we met him when he was approached by John Gabber and then both started the small sawmill in Access in the late fifities. Today he is the sole owner of the massive and productive mill in Phlox, the fourth biggest in Simland.

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The coalpower plant that supplies the city with its energy is right in the middle of the industrial park, it was built in the late thirties, when more power for the city was needed and the area was still undevelopped. With time the surrounding area was built on. Today the Energy Plant is running at "full speed" and capacity to keep up with the demand from downtown. Power lines are being built to the Grand Waterfalls in the Milby area, where the Simland Administration Office has plans to build a massive hydrodam starting in 1969, big enough to supply 90 % of the electrical energy needed in all Simland. This will be the biggest and greatest construction site ever seen in this country. We will get to this enormous construction site one day and I'll show you around where already more than 2000 sims work only to prepare the area. In Canada, in the Province of Quebec, they have started such a project also, up in the great north on the La Grande River.

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After Bluebay we will now move eastward to Ripton. Ripton belongs to Bluebay's administration since 1936, since it became impossible to pay their debts after the depression. Lately Bluebay has been thinking to expand its suburbs to Ripton one day, the lands are flat and dry.  One of the two existing ferry connections to the Nardician Islands is here in Ripton, travelling some 60 miles out into the Revera Sea to reach the southern isles. If you want to go to the Nardician Islands, you have three choices only, two by ferries from either Bluebay (Ripton) and Snake River to three different islands, including the main island, or by plane from Lakefield only to the town of Nardis on the main island.
The village of Ripton, as some still call it, has one of the seven man-made Simland wonders, the Uni-Glassbuilding. Entirely made out of glass connected to a steelframe, the building was designed and constructed in 1957 by architectural students all around the country. Uni Tower, as it is called now, belongs to the University of Lakestead and is the technology, architecture and science section of the Great University of the Capitol City. It was built here close to Bluebay because the city is one of the newest and most intersting futuristic city of Simland and therefor just perfect to teach these three interesting subjects. It was constructed in 1962.
Mike Allheimer, John Gabber's best friend, was born here, not far from where the ferry is today. His birthhome gave away to the busstation. Mike's parents died in a carcrash when he was only 3 years old and he was taken care of and raised by his aunt who lived just below the Gabbers and which he became friends with ever since. Mike started working for the Gabber family when he turned 15 years old and today is the Project Manager of Gabber's Road Constructions Department. When John took over the Company's department from his father, Mike became automatically his right hand.


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Totally on the side of the region in the west is a little place that time has forgotten, called St-Elsewhere. Nothing here than peace and quietness and some farms and little local logging industries. The biggest event in this village is when the yearly community dinner is held in October in the municipal building's basement. Although it is only 6 miles from Bluebay, the road leading to the villages is very small and narrow and almost undrivable during the 2 severe months of winter. St-Elsewhere's Mayor, the Native Nurabi Mentar, has been trying to draw interest to the village with different ideas to lure some jobcreating buissnesses into moving in. No big success yet, but he is hardheaded and will not give up that easily. The village was founded in 1884, when the Simland Railbaron Arthur McNorman needed a watertower and woodsupply before entering Bluebay. The village thrived in those days and even a Grand Hotel with 150 rooms was built in 1899, but when the hotel burned down in 1921, the village almost died with it, leaving behind a small ghosttown which is struggling to stay alive.

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On the southern border of Bluebay is an area not yet quite discovered. Here the roads end on the lake of Trinity. Founded only 4 years later than Bluebay, Smuggler's Notch was first named St-Trinity, then in 1837 it became Martin's Town and while the United States border wasn't too far south from here, it became one of the most important alcohol production facilty and smuggling route to the States during the years of Al Capone. In 1940, it was renamed to Smuggler's Notch and still is called so today. The small town has a population of almost 3,000 today and is the most american looking town in Simland. It has the railroad that connects with the States, a lot of farms and some small industry just outside of town. Only 6 years ago, silver was found in the eastern mountains and more and more small mines have appeared in the area eversince. The town slowly but steadily grows every year by a hundred or so citizens.
This is where Barby White from Valmore, former owner of Barby's Biergarten in Access Center, is from. Here her ancestors built the smuggler's route through the mountains south to the US. These trails can still be seen today, mostly overgrown though. Barby was born out here in 1912 and her parents moved to Bluebay when Barby was only 7 years old.

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So hopefully you liked the first visit to the other regions of our Story. I will come back with an update of the Ganoga Boys and some news around the towns of Access and Phlox very soon. Thanks for the comments, much appreciated. ;)
Which region would you like to visit next time? (Winding River Outlet isn't ready yet)

Fred


Detailed Reference Map of Bluebay.

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Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on October 16, 2011, 12:25:02 PM
Its good to see that you're back. I hope everything goes well. A nice update, I hope to see more of Bluebay in the future.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on October 17, 2011, 12:20:47 AM
Fantastic new update there!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on October 17, 2011, 02:47:55 AM
Hi Fred,

Good to see you are back. Did the ()flower() help?

Really incredible how much work you can do on SC4. It must take you many hours for every update. Sometimes I feel a bit jealous, having not so much time for playing the game. Maybe I should stop lotting and start building cities?  $%Grinno$%

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Ol.S / Benoit on October 17, 2011, 04:47:31 AM
Great update ! 77.06 & 77.7 are my favorites :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on October 17, 2011, 10:10:17 AM
I quite like that update Fred. Glad to see that you are back as well. :thumbsup:

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on October 18, 2011, 12:22:10 AM
Good update, and good to see The Bison back  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Gringamuyloca on October 18, 2011, 12:32:09 PM
 ;D Yes MrB! Good to see you back, and with eye candy to boot!  ()stsfd()

77.07 really catches my eye. The underwater detailing is so realistic and natural looking, one can forget that it is all 'pieced' detail by painstaking detail.  :'( (https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fforums.civfanatics.com%2Fimages%2Fsmilies%2Fhatsoff.gif&hash=0b720f28c08bcf27a0ef2a942d68469be5ddc308)

77.09 Is there something in 'laying' in the murky waters... or a reflection gone bad.? ???  $%#Ninj2

It was great to learn some more history, and the bonus is the detailed pictorial views.  ;)

Quote
Which region would you like to visit next time?

The Snake River region looks a likely place for this fisher.  :thumbsup:



Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Kergelen on October 18, 2011, 02:28:11 PM
I love 77.07 underwater details! Very inspiring.

And i like the region shot and 77.06 too.  :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on October 22, 2011, 10:54:26 PM
OMG I've read all 68 pages in 2 sittings its that good! :thumbsup: &apls :D Can u PM me with the details for a new character? Thanks. I hope this MD will rise to the top of the All Time List of Best MD in the SimUniverse ;D Lol. In all seriousness this is a great MD with an interesting storyline. May I tell u that u should check every now and then that ur RHW-4's haven't changed back to RHW-2's accidentally. Anyway awesome MD
(the size font is the amount of pages at the time of this reply)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on October 23, 2011, 05:35:35 PM
Thanks folks for all the comments, great to be back and having lotsa time to make some goody updates. (...and continue to render all those farmprops I made this summer)
Oufff!, this will be a big one. 31 pictures and a lot to say. There is so much happening in the region this year. Anyways, have fun and I hope it won't be toooo long. ;)

@Will12, glad you like the story enough to participate. I will pm you the detailed "rules" to get a character into this project in a short time. ;)
Quote
77.09 Is there something in 'laying' in the murky waters... or a reflection gone bad.? ???  $%#Ninj2
....hmmmm.......I don't know, but somehow it looks strange, you're right!
Quote
Good to see you are back. Did the ()flower() help?
I guess so, I am back! ;)




Update 78

Here and There and Everywhere             


Wednesday, June 14th, 1967
                           Today on this date ... then:

-
- 1775 – American Revolutionary War: the Continental Army is established by the Continental Congress, marking the birth of the United States Army.
- 1800 – The French Army of First Consul Napoleon Bonaparte defeats the Austrians at the Battle of Marengo in Northern Italy and re-conquers Italy.
- 1900 – Hawaii becomes a United States territory.
- 1940 – World War II: Paris falls under German occupation, and Allied forces retreat.
- 1967 – Mariner program: Mariner 5 is launched toward Venus.

- Born: 1946 – Donald Trump, American businessman and entrepreneur
        1961 – Boy George, British singer (Culture Club)

- Died: 1161 – Emperor Qinzong of China (b. 1100)
[/size]


This will be an update of a little of everything and everywhere. We will have a look at different places in the region of the Winding River and talk about some of our characters which take part of the story. In the next update we will talk about all the other characters that we haven't mentioned today.

First let's go to Grasslake, where we haven't been for awhile and things are picking up. Of course we remember that Grasslake is now independant of Lakefield's administration since earlier this year, and it has become an offcial municipality as the eastern neighbor to Access Center. We also know that it has started with some weekend homes around the lake only in the late fifties when the Access Road from Sandom to the highway was built and with time a small village formed. Today it has become a bigger village and it is steadily growing, although not zoned a lot of residentials.
Many of our folks have a weekend house here or even a permanent home. Gabber lives here on weekends, Racsan is here all year around, so is Allheimer and some others and even Alex Puto has rented a home around the area lately. (...and psssst, rumours are that his girlfriend Katie Panskyy spends more nights here than in her own home in Phlox)

On the picture below we see most of the village as it is today, June 14th, 1967. Also we can see that the lake has become quite busy with watertraffic in the last years. It seems that everyone that has a home on the lake owns a boat. It is even worse on weekends. The farms on the upper left and right have been sold to the municipality lately and opened tio zone for residential building. Roads to access the terrain will soon be build and drains, plumbing and electricity will follow. The lots have altready been separated and registered.
Only John Gabber refused to sell parts of his 30 acre land for future residential construction, probably to keep his total privacy.

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Counting about a population of 4,300, including the weekend homes around the lake, Grasslake is about half the size of Phlox now. At it's growing rate of the moment, the village should join Phlox equally in about 5 years, which of course is only a speculation for the moment.
Since the village has not yet finished the municipal access to the lake,(public access and beach) boats of the villagers are parked everywhere they can, as we see on the bottom right of the picture below.

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Quite a surprise to everyone in the town of Access Center, the buissness man Nethaniel Wellington, has bought a hundred acres of land near the Grasslake touching the banks of the mighty Winding River. And he was very quick about it too, since John Gabber had plans to do so also, but only came in late to sign the deal. The farm was owned by two brothers, friends of Johnny B. Badd, which had one of his best and biggest mari plantation on the hidden banks of the river on these lands (as we have seen in an earlier update some time ago). The brothers were unable to keep the land, because production wasn't too high in the last years and debts started to pile up. Either the bank seizes the land or they were forced to sell, which they did and announced on Monday morning. This morning, on Wednesday, the deal was signed with Wellington.
Exactly why Wellington invested in the farmland in the middle of nowhere, no one seems to understand, since everybody knows that Wellington is into food marketing and not farming nor land owning. Will he grow his own foods now, some wonder? Hard to believe, because he just signed a big deal with Badger, which we get to about later in this update.

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Ok now, let's go west from here and see what's up in the Maintown of the Region, Access Center. The biggest news around the town is that the Kohler Buslines and Schoolbus services have been sold to Guy Racsan, the owner of Racsan Motors and KECO.(airplane jet engines). This of course is another surprize and again, people are wondering why Racsan bought the transportation means of Access. Does he have too much money which he is scared to loose to the government as income taxes?
As we remember Kohler buslines just opened its terminal in Access and another one in Frampton and Bluebay, which he now connected together. Once highway 15 will be ready and opened, the connection to Beecher Falls and Lakefield were supposed to be made also. Racsan spent a lot of money in this. The schoolbus  service was only bought earlier this year by Tom.
About Kohler, the reason to have sold was quite eminent, he was diagnosed with general cancer. His wife, Jessica Parker, kept the taxi buissness in town, but both, including his 3 year old son John, moved to Beecherfalls where they both originally come from, for better health service in the University hospital of this city. Kohler was told that he might have 12 to 18 months to live, his doctors estimated.

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It is now official, the shopping Center in the middle of Access Center, built less than 10 years ago, is being soon torn down to make room for more office buildings. Some say that these will be the first skyscrapers in town, bringing a big shadow down on Wellington's office building, which stands just accross. Included in the leveling will be the Co-op on the right on the picture below, which moved to the other side of the highway, the bank, which will move southward, and several other small and older offices, stores and buildings in the same block. Johnny B.Badd's Cleaning service across the street of the block will stay intact.
The demolishing is supposed to start later this year, as soon as the new shopping mall in Valmore is ready to open.

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Another one of our well known characters had to be hospitalized. Barby White, the owner of the Vacation Center on Valmore lake, was brought to the local hospital in Access by ambulance two days ago with a severe case of a heart attack. the Vacation center was left in the hands of her trusty friend to take care of during this beginning of a the big summer season. Barby will be operated in the days or weeks to come, as soon as she stabilizes.
Her resort is in the beginning of becoming the best known Vacational Center of the region and surroundings, having been given a 5 star note lately. It is considered as one of the best places to relax in Simland.

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One last note from the Access and Valmore area, one of the Westwood twins, George, was nominated as the Assistant Director of the AHCA (Access Historical Conservation Association) in the National Museum of the Winding River on highway 15. George Westwood was already the responsable of the repairing and renovating project of Access's first church on Mainstreet, just opposite of Wellington's first Bake n' Sale. His brother is part of the Ganoga boys at the moment, enjoying the adventurous outdoors. George's office will be here in the museum where the base of the organisation is. He will soon move to the area, looking for a suitable appartment nearby.

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In the Ganoga Wilderness, misfortune happened. Only three or four days before the end of the journey, Jorden Meaden broke his ankle on the right foot while crossing the river that comes down from the Venus Wetlands and the Gibson Lake. (see large detailed Winding River Map here: http://img695.imageshack.us/img695/2638/1965windingrivervalleyn.png )

Although the accident happened late in the evening, it was only possible to reach Allheimer the next morning to report the incident. Once Mike received the news, he immediatly informed the army and explained the location of the campment, where they didn't hesitate to send an emergency helicopter right away from the base in West River.
For Jordan the journey was shortened. He was delivered to the Access hospital where Charlie Johnson, the Access Tribune journalist was eagerly waiting already to get the latest story and news about the boys. Jordan, before leaving by helicopter had to promiss to his friends not to say anything about the ruins and walls they found in the beginning of their trip.

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After the accident the boys decided to stay for the whole day in the same place and look around while they're here and found a strange looking foundation or something which was partially under water. Now that the mapmaker (Jordan) was gone , everyone thought, things couldn't be worse to pinpoint the exact location of this on their handrawn map. A picture was taken by Pat, who holds the camera. It was without any doubt a simcreation, which nature was impossible to do by itself. The wallike structure was heavily overgrown and much of it destroyed and decayed, hardly recognizable, but it was something worth mentioning in their report. Maybe something to do with the ruins some miles back on the bottom of the Stoke mountain.

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<< "I still don't believe this is real. In all the Simland's places to go that are still to be discovered, and you come here where we are." said Diarmuid to the stranger from Winding River Outlet that landed on the shore with a small outboard motorboat. "We honestly thought that we were the first ones here."
The stranger smiled and answered:" Well, I am surprized as much as you folks, we just wanted to find a good spot to fish some bass, which are excellent in these swamps, then we found this little channel that lead us here this morning, so....we came in through and found you.....">>

Strange indeed, that two anglers from downriver came up here to fish. It takes more than 4 hours of boat riding to reach the Ganoga wilderness, while having passed hundreds of excellent bassfishing spots on the way up.
<< Diarmuid and Charly looked at each other wantning to say out loud a lot of their impressions of this coincidence, but instead Diarmuid asked, " Want to stay to have a tea?"
Totally shocked, Pat said right away," I don't think that they have the time if they want to go back home before the night falls, the outlet must be an afternoon away, right?, looking at the strangers who were still in their landed boat.

<<"I guess you're right", said the older fellow in the boat and looked at his partner, "we have to go now, still quite a ways to go as you said, Mister. Nice meeting you guys and good luck on your trip back." they said while turning around the boat and slowly gearing it away from the shore.
Waving at them while they headed out of the creekentrance, Pat seriously looked at the other two. "Are you guys nuts to invite them onshore? Imagine if they were bad fellows?" "Oh come on Pat, they didn't look that bad," said Charly with a smile, "we were just curious what they were doing here so far from their village in the middle of nowhere."
"I don't care, it is too freaking dangerous to invite total strangers in the middle of nowhere, as you say. And that is what I find a little suspicous, what are they doing here anyways?", and Pat walked back to the campment to light the fire and prepare lunch while mumbling, "now let's eat those trouts we caught earlier before they turn bad on us.">>

During lunch all four discussed the situation they just lived more intensively, realizing that the strangers didn't seem to have any fishing equipment onboard and that the coincidence was indeed to strange. Strange indeed! The boys decided that they will be moving on and spend the night a little deeper in the forest that night, away from the shores of the swampy lake. So they brought down the camp, killed the fire and hiked eastward into the woods away from the swamps for a mile or so before spending the night.

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Now let's go to Phlox and see some changes and action there. First of all we go to the new downtown, where the first higher officebuildings have been built in the last fall. Downtown has changed from some fields mixed with commercial structures to a more official looking downtown. Phlox now has almost 8,000 citizens and its growing faster than Access, if we look at it for the last two years, but approximatly half the speed of Grasslake.

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The more commercial service stores are on the paralel Mainstreet, closer to the Highway Junction. Here commerces of all kinds and restaurants can be found, even the Kohler buslines stop....ouppps, I meant Racsan Buslines, as it is called now. More and more, Phlox becomes independant from Access, but with the new shopping center that should be finished before the end of the year, Access will be back on top again.

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On the other side of the highway junction are the residentials. Designed by the late Riichirou Takahaschi as his last work for the city, the residential area now clearly starts to look like the plans Riichirou made. Almost every lot has been sold sofar and constructions are everywhere. The town of Phlox is seriously thinking of clearing more land for the residential invasions. The construction is so fast that the town doesn't even find the time and finance to pave every street yet.
Mayor William B. Sharp is experiencing the panic that comes to every mayor if their village grows from 3,000 to 8,000 within two years only and he is often seen in the Access' Mayor office, probably asking the experienced mayor knowledge of Bartlett for advice. They don't even have a townhall yet in Phlox and the administration structure is totally unplanned and unorganized. They even have to depend on Access' Police, schools and fire department.

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Growing so fast, the Phlox's suburbs have a construction on every 6 to 8 lots, making a lot of construction noise within each street. People from everywhere, mostly from the bigger cities such as Lakestead and Beecherfalls, come here to either live a more relaxed life, find a new job in the area or enjoy the lower taxes. From here it is a 1.5 hr drive down to Lakestead and a good 2 hr drive north to Beecherfalls.

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Like I said, the mayor's office did not yet have the financial possibility to pave their streets, maybe as a result of the low taxes and as Mayor Sharp mentioned lately in a public appearance, let them finish all the construction first before making the place more goodlooking. Very big family homes is what seems to rule here in Phlox's suburbs, not like in Access, where appartment blocks seem to have taken over. The only place where Access has homes like this is near the beautiful Fingerlake's new Suburban development.

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Even farms just outside the town are different looking in Phlox, mostly seeming to be bigger in size and with higher productions. The lands are more flat here, being situated right in the middle of the valley and probably are more fertile too. Below is a very big Turkeyfarm, producing several thousand turkeys a year. Strange that it is only 5 minutes away from downtown Phlox. They have the largest cornfields in the Winding River Valley overhere. Farms like this, and bigger ones, are a regular sight around the town, which are slowly getting build on with residentials.

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Anne Bradley, the truckdriver from Goosebay and Dirk Kujit, from the Nardician Isles, that we met the last time for the first time, have both finally found a place a stay and what's funny is that they almost live now opposite of each other, although that they haven't met.
Annie probably found the perfect place for herself, renting it with the option to be able to buy later. The man that owned this small 8 acre farm just beside highway 35 going to Lakestead, died a few months ago and his daughter wanted to sell the place, but it seemed hard because of it's small size. Farms need to be big in the area to be able to make a living from it. Then came Annie, she doesn't need a big farm to survive, but a place to live and big enough to park her truck and the house and barn seemed to fill her needs. Coming from a small town south, Anne doesn't like the bigger town nor the city and she always dreamed for a place out in the country.
For Dirk it is different, he needed a place quickly, some place to stay first before settling down, and the small home on a big farm that was built for the hired help and which wasn't needed anymore , came in just handy for Kujit, while he is looking for a job in the area.

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Bradley didn't take time to move in into her new place, she brought her truck, her pick-up and her small fishing boat along from Goosebay. She loves the small home, which has an original countrylook, and the barn is just perfect for her truckrepairs, although the tractor itself does not quite fit through the door. Annie came to Phlox for the reason that she found a job at Slye's sawmill, hauling logs from the logging fields to the mill, not far from here. Not that she likes it that much and was looking for more of a long-distance runs, but for the moment being, the pay is good and work is plentifull. The logtrailer she got from Slye, who seems to have quite a few spare ones hanging around on the mill's grounds and rents them for little or nothing.
The option to buy the place is an excellent way to settle in slowly for Annie without going broke. She should be able to do so within the next 10 years, she figured. Being only 25 years old at the moment, she will own her place free of debts at the age of 35.

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Almost opposite of Bradley's place lives now Dirk Kujit in a very small house that is owned by the neighboring farm and which used to house the farmhelpers. Kujit found the place through an add. It was rented for a small amount and just perfect for him, because he needed a place to stay very quickly while he can scan the area for a suitable job in peace and quiet. Being 24 years old, Dirk likes the countryside also, just as Anne Bradley and this place seems good enough for now. As for a job, Dirk is looking for anything that pays well enough to make a living on his own. Of course since he is from a fisherman's family, he would like to find a job such as, maybe he will have a look around at the Phlox waterfront this week, where some professional fishermen have started fishing commercially the waters of the Winding River downstream, close to the sea.

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On the river banks of Phlox, Slye is buying out all his neighbors, needing a lot of space for the railport that he is planning to build. A new line of rails towards the bigger cities is also on his mind, now that his finances have trippled in the last two years. Slye's lumber products are well demanded for, his quality is hard to beat and more and more wood and building supply companies are signing longlasting contracts with the Shadow Mountain Mill that Slye is calling it today.
His neighbor, the outfitter Richard Welder, is moving to the Willow Ponds, because the rented land from the government will soon be drained and filled with gravel to make room for an industrial park for Phlox. Slye bought a small strip from the administration office in Lakestead to make room for more logstorage and maybe one or more buildings he needs. The yellow oulines indicate his land that he already owned and the the blue the land that he bought and is buying at this very moment.

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If we actually think back of Terry Slye, he climbed the "ladder" of success quite fast, being only 30 years old at the moment. But he is still the bachelor that Gabber met in the beginning of his career, having no time whatsoever for women in his life. Being one of the best bosses one could have, he is quite loved by most of his workers, which is close to 600 by now on the sawmill only, not counting the loggers and transporters. He always took care of his working group, making sure that they are well first. That is probably why the mill is producing so much quality lumber. The mill is busy, more than ever and no bare lots are in sight, the logs come in and go out as planks and sized lumber as soon as an empty space is created.

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Wherever you look, logs and ready to go lumber can be found. This is a busy place, because more than 100 truckloads a day come in and out of the mill, making it the busiest road in the area. A lot of wood goes to the trainstation in Phlox, only a mile away, but trucks will haul full charges and loads to cities like Access (Donovan's Materials), Lakestead, Frampton, Halo and Roy. But Slye wants his own rails now, not being obliged to always wait for the trains to come and leave whenever he needs them to. One day, he says, the finished wood will get to the cities faster and exactly ontime when he wants them to arrive.

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Welder, who rented this small bass paradise for the last 5 years from the government, is now being expulsed more or less, while they decided to drain and open the new industrial park on top of the pond. His cottage will be torn down and make room for a parking place to begin with. Richard found a better place on the Willow ponds, this time he will buy the land surrounding one of the ponds and re-open his fishing outfitter Company. He is also thinking about renting some of the land of Sterling on Stoke Mountain to open up the possibility of guiding a few hunters of moose, deer and bear, which seem to be a little overpopulated there.
What a shame that the pond will be filled out, one of a few just beautiful and natural places around Phlox. When Adrien McCoy, the environmentalist heard about this, he just freaked out and made a solid complaint to the government, but who is he for them. And nothing is being done to change the situation. Mad like a fiery bull, he wants to complaint to the Governor, once he gets enough citizen's signatures to become somewhat important.
He also went to the local Radio station of Access, WEZM, where he outspoke publically what he thinks about the situation of all the wilderness being either filled, bulldozed and killed off around the Access area. What a waste that can never be reversed again, McCoy feels.

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Out on the Mighty Winding River's bridge, the final works are being executed under the commands and supervision of Alex Puto, who is running from one place to another these days. Seeing to it that everything is well done on the big bridge in Phlox and then turning back to the Ganoga bridges, where they almost reached the other side with another network of several bridges. All this does not leave much time for Alex to see and meet with his new girlfriend that he fell in love with, Katie Panskyy, who owns the boating club on the island.
On the other side of the bridge, the town has started to build the new pumps for the town.
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Now that the future pumping site is accessible with a road, the town rushed in to get their new waterpumps build. The area will soon be secured on the waterside with some sort of a wall that will protect from erosion and waves. The galvenized steelbeams have already arrived and the filling of the banks with rocks have started. Even the foundation of the Pumpingstation are done. This place is another busy spot around Phlox, waiting for the concrete trucks now.
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Here's a closer look of this construction site.

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Just on the other side of the bridge, the eastern mainland, there is also a riverwall being built and later a small harbour for fishing boats is planned. It is a big Harbour Company from Frampton who had the idea to buy the land beside the bridge and create a small harbour, which is somewhat needed in Phlox. The wood for the casings already arrived, now they wait for the workers and then to fill the casings with solid concrete to form the heavy-duty walls of the future harbour.
Construction on top of construction is what you see all over Phlox these days. The working force is missing people at the moment.

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One more of our members to visit is Gregory Badger, our reserve soldier from West River. As we know already, he bought a small place on the Sterling island last year and seriously started to grow vegetables and small fruits. Then he took out a loan and bought some more land just on the other side of his small place, to be able to enlargen his productivity. A good thing, because he just signed a five year contract with Nethaniel Wellington to supply his store and supermarkets with veggies and fruits. Greg had to hire a helper for this, not being able to run the whole place by himself anymore. Besides, now that he met the local waitress in Barby's Biergarten, Jennifer, he is out to see his beauty most of the evenings.
Just before the deal with Wellington was signed, he built himself another shed and a salestand to sell his crop on the roadside.

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Here is a picture of the whole Badger Farm.

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His new veggiestand by the road didn't take time to draw a lot of private new customers that enjoy the homegrown and fresh vegetables and small fruits from Badger's gardens. To take care of the stand, he had to hire another helper, a young local girl from the island, named Emily.
Greg's big season is the summer and fall, but now he is planning to do some greenhouse production also, to be able to supply Wellington's markets with fresh vegetables during the colder months.
He even bought two cows that he keeps to mow the lawn between the buildings. Attached to a solid metal driven into ground, he doesn't need fences.
Another thing that Greg has now got around to, is that he is one of the ambulance helpers of the island, an emergency male nurse, something he learned in the army. Since the island is quite far from the mainland, but still holds a population of more than 700 citizens all year around, his knowledge of emergency handling was quite appreciated when he applied for the job at the local clinic. He will be working with the local fire department on the island. But Greg is still a soldier, part-time on some weekends, on the reserve list.
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A last picture to end this update is a little shocking to many of us. So, a warning is been mentioned for those who have weak hearts and souls. Jake Monarch, or Big Jake as many call him, a man in his late thirties, 6ft3 (188cm) and 325 lbs (145 kg) says that one can get very rich with recycling. But sofar, as he has been doing this for the last twelve years in Frampton and other areas, but had no success, and he owns a few places like this all over Simland. This dirty mess that ends up even into the waters of the river has been reported, but Phlox seems to ignore it, because there is actually no law against unorganized recycling yet. No one seems to like this big and dirty arrogant fellow who is married since he was 18 and has 13 kids, some are afraid that he is moving to the region with his family and install themselves for good. At least that is what was heard.

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I hope that you enjoyed this huge update of the region. The next time we will make a smaller one, again talking about different places around the area and some of the other characters. Only after that we visit another region of Simland. Still looking for a suggestion, we got one sofar, mentioning Snake River.....how about it?

Have a nice week now

Fred ;)


Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on October 23, 2011, 10:08:12 PM
Great update! Nice to catch up on most of the region. Pity the broken ankle though!!  ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on October 23, 2011, 10:26:50 PM
Nice Update Fred looking forward to my character!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on October 24, 2011, 04:40:46 AM
That update took me the good part of an hour to read. Very very nice. Hope to see the next one very soon!

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on October 24, 2011, 07:29:38 AM
Hi Fred,

Astounding detail!
And some very nice crop props (say that aloud ten times quickly!) you show in the Badger farm. Where did you get them?

Your friend Frank
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on October 24, 2011, 12:34:59 PM
Frank, I think thy are part of Pegasus' Agriculture mod. That is availiable at simpeg.com. I think that's the site.

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on October 24, 2011, 07:00:29 PM
Quote from: KoV Liberty on October 24, 2011, 12:34:59 PM
.... I think thy are part of Pegasus' Agriculture mod....

Badger Fram? Don't think so. There is a SimGoober crop to the left. The pumpkins, corn, orange flowers, and grape vines are by Couchpotato. Looks like Fred's been making lots again because the purple flowers are maxis.  I'm not sure who did the lime trees ... but they're not Peg's. And the green rows of weeds on the left side of the dirt road could be?  ???  No idea.  :D

let's not leave Peg out - the big turkey farm has Peg's switch grass fields.

- Jim



Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on October 24, 2011, 11:28:06 PM
You're at it again Fred, and not shorting us on either detail or breadth of the story and pictures. It's taken a me a while to catch up. Got a couple updates behind, and that's a lot of ground to cover, but it was an enjoyable time doing it. Looking forward to what's to come, and what the purchase of land near the mill will yield.

Also, any recent news on the airport's development?
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Terring7 on October 26, 2011, 05:25:15 AM
Lot's of details, I can't believe that this is Simcity 4!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on October 27, 2011, 03:54:10 AM
Quote from: jmyers2043 on October 24, 2011, 07:00:29 PM
Quote from: KoV Liberty on October 24, 2011, 12:34:59 PM
.... I think thy are part of Pegasus' Agriculture mod....

Badger Fram? Don't think so. There is a SimGoober crop to the left. The pumpkins, corn, orange flowers, and grape vines are by Couchpotato. Looks like Fred's been making lots again because the purple flowers are maxis.  I'm not sure who did the lime trees ... but they're not Peg's. And the green rows of weeds on the left side of the dirt road could be?  ???  No idea.  :D

let's not leave Peg out - the big turkey farm has Peg's switch grass fields.

- Jim

Ah, yes. I did recognize Simgoober's stuff and the chouchpotato pumpkins, they are in BSC Megaprops misc 1 or 2. The lime trees could be MJB.
I was indeed wondering about the crops that you don't recognize either.
PEG's stuff is, by the way, very good. But not in this image. Fred uses it: it's the corn around the turkey farm in 78.16.

And Fred: so many lots, you must have an awfully long and cluttered series of in game menus. How do you ever find something?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on October 27, 2011, 09:21:24 AM
First, Thanks to all for the comments, as always they are all appreciated and I am pleased that you liked this update.
jmyers2043 is right, most of these plopcrops are Nexis custom plops, some have simgoober's textures, others are from couchpotato and MJB and Peg, plus more from "I don't know who".
As most of you already know, I always use custom made Nexis Lots and BATs in my story and for each character, just to make it more personal and realistic looking. They can be asked for, if anyone is interested. (that's if I can find them in my 17 Gb pluginfolder ;))

Quote
And Fred: so many lots, you must have an awfully long and cluttered series of in game menus. How do you ever find something?

Well, lol.....sometimes I make something and then I cannot find it in the menus. What I do then is simply create a new and empty pluginfolder, put that specific file in it and open the game and find it, which is quite easy. Then I plop it where I want it to be, save the city (with the hundred or so brown boxes that were left without their props and textures), reload the original pluginsfolder, included the new one that I couldn't find before......lol....and re-open the game, where everything is in its place, including the new one. Easy, no? lol....That happenes once in awhile, when I simply cannot find that specific file that I made, but once I found it and saw its icon, then it will be just a matter of my memory to find it again.
I have more than 900 custom Nexis Lots, not including my 320 Nexis BATlots in my plugins. Confusing?...Yes, you bet! Long and cluttered menue?...Oh my, yes indeed, but.....I Love it! ;)

Ok, so you guys don't find the time tooo long to wait for upcoming update, I have some.....Teasers....for you. Enjoy.


Catching a salmon that runs up the river in late summer is what everyone should experience at least once in his/her lifetime. Being alone on the riverbanks. listening the to the water, the fighting dragonflies and smell that freshness of clean and clear waters surrounded by evergreens and having one big salmon "online", is an unforgetable experience of adrenaline at its greatest.  When the waters are low in the river, it is the best time to go for it and find these fishfull waterpockets that might hold the trophy of your lifetime that is just parked there and waiting for the next rainfall, that 'll open up the "path" to its breeding grounds.

T-08
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Downriver a few hundred yards (meters), some folks take their weekend more serious than others and enjoy the peace and quiet of the river, while relaxing and enjoying the waterflow with their kayak or canoe.

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The river is in the Goosebay region, in the southern part of Simland.

see map:
http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/2665/largesimlandmap.png

It is just north of Bluebay and south of Sandom. A small farming community, surrounded by piney hills and sliced with the Gooseriver, which drains the Threepeak Mountain chain in the west.
People like Mike Allheimer, Richard Welder , Robert Yome and Anne Bradley come from this beautiful and still preserved area, which draw each year hundreds of salmon tourists to its town. The town is the only place with a salmonladder, which allows the fish go upstream although when it is damed.

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Goosebay will be the in the next 3 to 4 updates, we will visit this beautiful and very detailed region with our Region series.

But before that we will have an interesting update coming soon, talking about Johnny B.Badd's new Mari-fields, Bob Mangarten's favourite dinerplace, Jake Monarch's coming to the region, Paul Donovan's expansion in Access, Michael Trux's second Fastfood Resto in Access and his passion for airplane/train photography, Steve Gibson's second airplane purchase and new company, Wormwood's carsales which are climbing at a highrate, now that he got to be friends with Johnny B. Badd, Alex Puto and his passion of boating and love with Katie, Vito Scaletta's new office at the airport, William Sculpten's arrival in Access, full of new ideas and Trent Michaels' retirement in  Phlox and plans to do something different.
Plus we visit the airport of Access, have a look at the latest advancements of highway 15 and hear something from the Ganoga boys again.
It will be big, maybe not quite as big as the last one, but.....Be there!

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on October 28, 2011, 12:22:22 AM
Nice teasers Fred. Can't wait for the update! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Orange_o_ on October 28, 2011, 02:41:26 AM
I love the work you do with the seabed. But perhaps it would be even prettier, with less blue water
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on October 29, 2011, 10:37:56 AM
Nice job Fred, you've been making good use of your time off
%wrd
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on October 31, 2011, 07:12:06 AM
Quote from: mrbisonm on October 27, 2011, 09:21:24 AM
Well, lol.....sometimes I make something and then I cannot find it in the menus. What I do then is simply create a new and empty pluginfolder, put that specific file in it and open the game and find it, which is quite easy. Then I plop it where I want it to be, save the city (with the hundred or so brown boxes that were left without their props and textures), reload the original pluginsfolder, included the new one that I couldn't find before......lol....and re-open the game, where everything is in its place, including the new one. Easy, no? lol....That happenes once in awhile, when I simply cannot find that specific file that I made, but once I found it and saw its icon, then it will be just a matter of my memory to find it again.
I have more than 900 custom Nexis Lots, not including my 320 Nexis BATlots in my plugins. Confusing?...Yes, you bet! Long and cluttered menue?...Oh my, yes indeed, but.....I Love it! ;)

Fred,

I tried once to do things like that: taking lots out of my plugins folder. What I wanted to achieve was the growing of one certain series of residential lots, so I took out all others (and blocked Maxis). What I found out was that after restoring the lots a huge amount of props was deleted and the lots looked very empty. Do you not suffer from this?

You almost convince me into taking a trip to your side of the ocean and take a canoe- or fishing vacation there.... But I am not sure if it fits with my 7 years old daughter's and 2,5 years old sons interests... My wife would certainly feel for that.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on October 31, 2011, 12:43:42 PM
Thanks Will and Nascar.
Orange_o, I wanted to make it look like the river has "pools" (deeper waterpockets) in it and that was the only way I could achieve it. Unless.......lol....you might finish those water (River and/or Creek) lots that you started..... &idea

FrankU,
That happened to me also, when I take out plugins and come back to do something without them and then return with the full packs. Props (and sometimes texture) have the tendency to disappear when it's done, but I always keep a proppack now of all the props that I have everytime I open a citytile.
Below is a link to ST, where I mentioned the detailed manner on how I handle my Plugins folder. Have a look, maybe it might come in handy for you too, since I use an enormous amount of BATs, LOTs, Mods and Props, some 17 GB's of them, and this with a regular 5 year old computer ;)

http://www.simtropolis.com/forum/topic/46567-preferred-plugin-manager/page__gopid__1203775


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: carlfatal on November 01, 2011, 11:05:07 AM
Hi Fred,
my first comment here - now i finished reading the first half of Your wonderful MD (i read it part for part since more than a month, can´t stop as i love the story as well as Your pictures). Then i wanted to write something, but You were ill then and fortunately now You´re back.  :thumbsup:
I only hope You´ll stay well for the next long Years! That´s all for now, cause i have to go back to side 35 and read again. Oh, one thing: this picture of the little creek is outstanding, although i concede a point to girafe: the water less blueish would be better... But then i would have thunk it were some RL picture. And so i see it´s not...  ;)
Greetz, Carl
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on November 01, 2011, 09:50:34 PM
Not much time to post... I'll have to go back and catch up on the story, but the pics look great!  I'm still impressed by the volume of detail... it's more than just singular detail.... it's the whole thing!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 01, 2011, 10:15:34 PM
eufl Thanks for your wonderful first comment here, and I hope it ain't the last one, bceause the story goes on and I have figured out everything until they undig the........in West River.......oups, I almost gave it away. ;) But then again, that will happen only in 1991. Meanwhile have fun reading the story, which is about to get even better.

CabraBuitre, yeah.... you better be informed right, so you know where the Westwoods are going, right? ;) Thanks for dropping in.

I am working on different things at the moment all at the same time. First rendering those farmprops that I did earlier....(geeez, there are sooo many of them), then I am finishing a castle that I started a year back and also writing the next update, which will come next weekend and yes, it will be almost as big as the last one. ;)

Have a nice week, I'm enjoying the beautiful weather out here in Québec (sunny but a little on the cold side).

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on November 02, 2011, 02:56:35 AM
Hi Fred, I read you post on Simtropolis about plugins. I added my own technique there.
Interesting discussion!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on November 06, 2011, 07:01:35 PM
Hey Fred hows the update coming can't wait! ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 06, 2011, 09:19:15 PM
Quote from: Will12 on November 06, 2011, 07:01:35 PM
Hey Fred hows the update coming can't wait! ;)

Hey Will,

I'm in Colorado right now, be back home in a couple of days. The update will be ready next weekend. It takes awhile to write all this and create it ingame and take pictures, upload pictures, upload the story and organize the post......  &mmm

I only have my laptop with me, no game installed (buissness use only), but....psssst (looking around and see if the door of the motel is locked..)...I got gmax on it and do some BATting for the MD..., don't tell anyone. ;)


Fred

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on November 07, 2011, 10:52:40 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on November 06, 2011, 09:19:15 PM
Quote from: Will12 on November 06, 2011, 07:01:35 PM
Hey Fred hows the update coming can't wait! ;)

Hey Will,

I'm in Colorado right now, be back home in a couple of days. The update will be ready next weekend. It takes awhile to write all this and create it ingame and take pictures, upload pictures, upload the story and organize the post......  &mmm

I only have my laptop with me, no game installed (buissness use only), but....psssst (looking around and see if the door of the motel is locked..)...I got gmax on it and do some BATting for the MD..., don't tell anyone. ;)


Fred

:D :D :D
Okay thanks. I know how long these things take (I have a CJ of my own so...)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 13, 2011, 12:27:30 PM
UPDATE 79
"From One Place to Another"

Just have a small look on the entire town of Access Center first. It has reached the 70,000 population mark earlier this year and is radically changing from one month to another. "Nothing will stop us now" is Mayor's Bartlett new slogan.

Now, before you start reading this update, make sure you got a cup of coffee, tea, glass of water, milk or even a bottle of beer beside you, because this is the biggest update of mine sofar. It's huge! ....and it will be the last one of this size, because this is a lot of work at one time. A little too much. Anywyas, enjoy. ;)

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<<<" Oh my god, what happened here?" asked John Gabber when he entered the Timberlog Office looking at Slye at his desk. " Talking about a mess, this is terrible!"
"Hey, don't remind me," says Slye not even lifting his head burried in the papers in front of him," I see it every morning and it just starts pissing me off too."
Being a good friend and the ex-partner of Terry Slye, John is picking him up to go and meet the Ganoga kids, which are supposed to come out of the Ganoga wild Territory this afternoon on the last bridge they're building at the Winding River Region Limits.
"Are you ready?" he asks Terry, "The kids are probably waiting for us already."
Slye finally lifted his eyes and looked at John, " Ready?....ha....never, I suppose, but let's go and see those new celebrities. I heard that more than a hundred people will be waiting for them to come out of the woods."

While they exited the office and before taking his white luxurious car in the parking, John couldn't help saying seriously: " You better get organized Terry, all this is starting to look like it's anorganized mess...." and starting to laugh when Slye looked at him to see if he actually was serious. " Don't worry, Buddy, I can just imagine in what position you're in at the moment." John continued.
"I don't think so," Slye told John while he was opening the door of the passenger side of John's car. "I'm about to crack up I think" and leans his arms and head on the top of the car.
" Geeez, is it that bad? " John asks.
" Well, I haven't really slept much lately, nor did I have had a weekend to myself and my girlfriend and I am out of ideas where, what, how and when to continue with all this."
Oh, c'mon now Terry," John looked at Slye while tapping his hand on the hardtop. "You need to double up that buissness of yours, you always wanted it, so now you got that chance to do so. You better now stick to it, son. This will be over quicker than you think." giving him some serious fatherly advice and after a moment of thinking, Slye responded: "You're right John, I wanted it, damn it yes,.....I wanted it.", and both got into the car to meet the kids in the Brokentree area.>>>79.02

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Terry S, Slye started the sawmill buissness a while back together with John Gabber. It was in Acces, where it all started. Being of course the only sawmill close by, it wasn't long before it had to double it's input and because space was a small problem in Access, Slye sold the land there, bought John's half and started here in Phlox. Buissness is excellent and always has been, but now there's another problem. A matter of space again and this time even more than ever.

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There is the problem of sawdust.
While it's being piled outside of his property on a rented farmfield and some of is being burned 24 hrs a day, it could be well more productive and money making if there would be a rail to deliver it to a furniture manufacture up in Frampton. Burning the sawdust is an expense and not making profit.

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At the moment, some of the sawdust is being shipped to Frampton already, but shipping expenses by ship are too great and loading is another problem. Terry does not be wanting to build himself an industrial harbour with cranes etc, that will be standing still after a certain time.

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Here are two pictures showing us the need for more space and better shipping.

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So, Terry Slye's decision was to build himself a railway connecting to the mainrails that lead north to Frampton. That rail north, Terry is about to negociate to buy with the Simland Rails Company. Investing more than a million of §'s, Terry is only hoping to have taken the right decision.
Rails always have fascinated him since his childhood and now that he is about to become the owner of his own small railways, we can easily understand him stressing himself out of his limits.

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While we are in Phlox, let's go and see more of it. As some citizen's feared, Big Jake, the Iron Man, as some call him, has moved to phlox. Scrap is his buissness and scrap is already what his new home looks like.
<<"Unbelievable in what conditions this guy lives with his 85 lbs wife and family of 13", the telephone repairman Bob Mangarten said to his neighbores when he installed the phone lines in Monarch's home." I haven't seen worse yet, but I remember him from Bordertown, where he once he moved in for a short while and back there, I was the one who installed his phone too." In this new place that Big Jake bought from the old Jonson with cash, some of his kids seem to live in the barn, Mangarten says, because he installed a phone there also. "Only been here for 4 weeks and the place already looks like a dump".>>
James Monarch is always on the lookout for a good bargain of scapped metals and used paper and he finds the region an excellent place to continue his road to wealth, as he calls his job ambition.

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Alex Puto and his girlfriend are moving in together. They started to build a home that Alex himself designed, just outside of Katie's Boatyard on Sterling Island in Phlox. Alex announced to Gabber that he will be leaving the Gabber Company once the highway is finished and wants to perfect his skills of architecture while starting his own architectural Company in Access Center one day. As we know , Alex has been with the Gabber Company since the beginning of the Highway 15 construction. John Gabber was somehow disappointed of his decision, but understood and accepted his decision to become independant.

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Just to mention, also in Phlox, this time in the little "downtown" near the bridge, Dirk Kujit finally found a job, not exactly what he was looking and hoping for, but for the moment it will have to do, because he has to live and pay for the rent of his new little place outside the town.
George Troy, that we surely remember as the Guardian of the Sterling lands and as the cook of his small cantina near his home on the highway 15 outside the town and his small bicycle repairshop in Phlox, is offering a honest paid job to Kujit as a helper in his bikeshop. Kujit will now be repairing bicycles which is not at all in his line of his dreams. Now Troy will be able to make longer hours in his canteen.
Not far from Troy's shop is a small restaurant where Bob Mangarten, the telephone repairman, started to hang out when ever he works in the area. They serve something called "roasted wings of chicken". Maybe a new recipe, but Bob loves that stuff it seems and he surely thinks that it should've been invented before.

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One more place in Phlox to visit is the Sterling Island's southern end, where the Gerhard farm was lately sold to the retiring Naval Captain Trent Michaels. Only the land was sold to him, about 100 acres of it. Trent spent a lot of his hard earned saved money on this land, but has some nice plans to open a small marina with a restaurant at the point of this new peoperty of his. The land will be perfect, nicely situated on the southend of the big island, where the sunset falls into the mighty Winding River. Mr Michaels also applied for a place next year in the Lakestead University to study Naval architecture and Engineering. He is aiming for a college degree to start of with. Now that he has all the time he likes on his early retiremnt, Trent can take care of his dreams.

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The Gerhard farm itself was not sold while Gerhard himself will continue to live and do some smalltime gardening, now that he made a lot of money  with the land and enjoy his retirement also.

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Let's go back to Access Center, our maintown of almost 72K citizens now.
We heard about that the shopping center in downtown was about to come down one day, well, it happened. Unfortunetly we missed the day it was torn down and only 48 hrs after, nothing of the old site was left to see.
The "hole" in the middle of town is so big that it seems to have gulped up a good part of downtown. Even the Main office of Wellington is now in the shades of the crane towers that will help the rising of the new office tower complex.
No one actually seems to know how many towers or how tall they will be, but on the radio mentioned that the buildings will easlily tower over everything in Access. Also this complex will have an underground parking of several stories, something that already exists in the bigger cities of Simmland. Of course that draws a lot of curious folks over to the construction site which make the traffic complications only worse than they already are.
The bank, the shopping center, the Co-op and the other offices that disappeared here have been transferred to the big Valmore Commercial Center, where we will go in a couple of minutes.

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Here close to the construction site, a young fellow that will be working in these future offices, just has moved in one of these big appartment buildings that were built 5 years ago on top of the last pond in Access. Remember that pond, it used to be the watersource of Access?
The young fellow, William Sculpten, born just after the war in 1946 (now 21yo) comes from the Capitol City, where he studied computer repair and maitenance. He was hired by a big Company that started manufacturing computers for big buissnesses and governmental institutions. Since Computer are very big and have many moving parts, Bill, as we will call him, has a college degree in general mechanics which he needs to maintain these monsters of today's technologies. Young Sculpten will be responsable for those computers to maintained and running smoothly in the Winding River Region, representing the Company he works for, Sim-Global Computers Inc.

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One thing that seems to be out of place at this time, is the small little laundry store of Johnny B.Badd, left pittyful behind the big downtown constructions. Beside him, a small gazstation was built only a few months ago. One day his store and his neighbor in the back, the TV-store will disappear also. But for now, he's doing well and has no plans to abandon his shop that is laundering his illegal money he makes with his green drugs.

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Another one that will stand in the shadows of some tall building is Barby's Biergarten. I don't know if the outside terrace will be as attractive as before with the big cement tower now rising beside it.

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And still in Access downtown is Harry Wormwood's used carsales, doing very well it seems. His yard is full of cars now and new ones are brought in every month. Since economy is excellent in the region, so are the carsales and Wormwood is doing much better than he expected, selling more and more used cars. But something is strange, Johnny B.Badd and even Vito Scaletta have been seing around him in several occasions. How about an almost brandnew 1967 Chevrolet Impala for only 2000 § ? Only 400 miles on it.

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To boost the tv signals coming from the Capitolcity's TV-Stations, a Tv antenna was erected near the highway 15, just beside the new residential zones on the banks of Fingerlake. Some others were installed in the western mountains also. The tower will now boost the signals of two more TV stations from the Capitol and Frampton. Now Access has 5 channels in its radius of reception. Some folks say that Access is planning to get its own TV station within two years, but then again, are these just rumours again?

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What once used to be an airport does not show anymore signs of that today. The industrial park is growing out of its size. Some room will be freed when Racsan Motors move to the River, near the airport, but this can still take a year or two. Then again, Mayor Bartlett opened a few acres beside the airport for industrial constructions also and many new industries that come to the region go to the River to buy the land. We will see that later in this update also.

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Finally a surprize to everyone in Access, the trainstation that is only two years old has been sold to Michael Truex. Now, here is something fishy going on in Access, and Mayor Bartlett does not answer any of the questions asked why the trainstation is disappearing soon. Rumours are that the rails will disappear also from the town limits of Access. Plans for a new route, just outside the town have already been made, the council said. Truex doesn't know anything about this neither, all he knows that he was offered the station for a fair prize and that it will become his property in about 6 months, when trains will stop passing through the town. What Truex has in mind for this terrain is surely got something to do with his Hamburgerstands, now getting well known in Access. Racsan Busses will take the trains' place until the new rails are connected with the mainrails.
The only thing that Bartlett mentioned in his last speech about the future of Access is that the traffic problem in Access' downtown will come to an end soon. Hm?

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Now let's go to Valmore, the northern part of Access, where all the action is these days. Donovan is being busy too, while the home and buissness constructions in the region have more than doubled and with great help from Slye, he is about to double his enterprise in Access again. His new lumberyard near the highway is holding enough wood to construct a small town. His slogan is that "Donovan's never short of materials". He even thinks to open an outlet like this in Phlox one day soon.
Paul is less seen in the bars and clubs downtown these days, he must be too busy to keep his "Playboy" life active and he hasn't been to his other outlet in Beecherfalls and Frampton in the last 2 months.

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Right across the highway is the new truckstop which was welcomed by many truckers across the region. Being on highway 15 at one of its exits, it couldn't be better located.

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Anne Bradley, our new truckdriver, is starting to hang out here, when on breaks driving the logloads for Slye's mill. Also Mike, our Gabber Inc forman is seen here quite often, he just loves truckers he says. The Restaurant is run by a man from Sandom, who thought that it was an excellent location to build one. With the highway under construction, trucks are all over the place in this region and what a trucker always needs is a good breakfast and lunch.

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"The future is today" it says on a sign when you enter the new commercial center of Valmore. Here now are a few big outlets, superstores and shopping malls where onces a big farm stood. Almost completely surrounded by the highway that contours Valmore, the southern district of Access Center, the commercial center is immense. About 65 % of its total plans is already built with the Golfcourse in the center and all the other ones are in the stage of construction. One big contract that the town of Access will be glad to have finished. It will be all ready as promissed before the end of the year.

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Let's have a closer look at this. In the beginning of the center are the new hi-rise residences, totally new to the region. These appartment buildings are for the higher society only though, because one needs a darn good job to be able to live here with all the accomodations within a 10 minute walk. This place is surrounded by parks and cultivated forests that have trails and benches. Also community gardens have been organized, very new to Simland and are used as an experiment for the moment.
Racsan Busses, former Kohler buslines, has opened its 25th busstop in town right here.

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In the middle of the commercial center is a  golfcourse, that was so much demanded by many citizens. The golfclub is the property of the town and run by it also. Almost 25 acres big, it is a Golfer's paradise. Some of the first registered members of the club are Paul Donovan, Steve Gibson, who was wondering what took them so long, Mike Allheimer, Kyle Roberts, the Access Police Chief and of course our famous and busy Terry S.Slye, who actually was the first one registered, but has not set a foot on the terrain yet.
The club was the biggest expense of the town in 1967 and the biggest financial deception of the population, but hopefully will pay for itself soon and within a few years to come. there are several Parks and forests that surround the golfcourse and connect with the other parks in the same area.

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Not to go into all the details of this commercial center, I will show only three pictures of the Golf course's surrounding terrains. Here one can find a big hardwarestore, a large shopping mall and a Zeller's store, close by a few family restaurants who are making the way into town these days. Further away, we have a Walmart, some smaller stores and three more superstores to come before the year ends. And on the other side of the golfcourse are other stores and shopping centers and a few still to come. In other words, the commercial center is quite an attraction not only for the citizens, but also for outsiders, such as from Sandom and even Bluebay. This is something that the town's council has been dreaming of for the last five years and finally it has become a reality.
Of course this is taking Phlox a great step back as Mayor Bartlett hoped for. Having a commercial center of this span in a town, surely is excellent for its economy and a good reason to moving in. Go Access go!

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South of Access, close to the river, is the airport. We haven't been here for awhile because it din't really develop that fast neither. Now, it barely has started to grow a bit more. The forests have almost been totally erased in the area and the terrain is now flattened and levelled, ready for construction. Sofar the airport is divided into 5 parts or departments if you like.
The airforce, commercial area, the airport itself for national flights only for the moment, the cargo area and the industrial part of the airport. All the other vacant parts of it will find usage for many uses with time and/or used for extensions of the airport itself. Some places have already been reserved to certain Companies from Access and exterior.

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The cargo area is now busier than a year ago. People realized that shipping by air is a lot faster than by train or truck. Besides the post office depends severly on Cargo-air now, sending all its mail to other cities in Simland from here.

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The airforce hasn't changed at all, still looking almost empty and only one or two planes are seen once in awhile. Nothing much going on here.

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Just beside the main airport, Steve Gibson has rented a small office, where he has taken his small plane service buissness from Grasslake. Now Gibson owns a second airplane for land only, bringing in and out people from Access and elsewhere. You can buy a regular flight with his small airplane to every small port you want to go and there's one in almost every small village in this country for a third of the price from a big company. Steve hired a pilot for this, keeping his hydroplane for himself.

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This is the main airport. It also has not changed since it was finished two years ago. No need for it to change neither since it's doing well and giving all what the people of the region need. Landings and take-offs are like twice a day. Only a few small commerces have arrived in this area, mostly bars, restaurants and a small motel/hotel.

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The airport is new and has a cost of a few million § to the town, but the council is positive, because they believe that it will soon pay itself. As we heard in an earlier update, 70 % of the costs were paid by the federal government, but still the 30 % left to pay by the town has created a big hole in the financial pocket, which is still felt. Although the airport looks quite big, it only hires about 40 people on a regular basis. Everything is kept to a minimum of basics.

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Further down in the direction to the river is the industrial section of the airport. Here Vito Scaletta has his office now of importation/exportation. Vito studies aviation engineering at the moment in Frampton, but his small import and export buissness helps pay off his study's costs. Being a close friend of Alex Puto, he is often seen with him at different places. But lately people like Johnny B.Badd and Harry Wormwood have been around him when he is in town. Some say that he might have some connection with the sicilian Mafia, but then again, one cannot trust rumours all the time, now can we?

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Here we can see that the industrial section of the airport has well started. Some quite futuristic looking offices were built last year and more and more zones have been sold to be soon build on. Vito's office and warehouse in the same building is right in the middle of it. His neighbor is the airport administration center, which also holds some other offices, like the cargo offices and the regional post office and delivering services.

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The plantation is about 500 yards up into the hills away from the farmbuildings, no roads, no trails and since strangers have no buissness in these parts, the place is perfectly save. Although several people live in different houses on the farm, most of them working on the farm's apple plantation, it can be easily managed to keep it without getting noticed. Johnny himself and one more hired friend from Access will do the maintaining of the plants during the summermonths.
For now they planted about 300 only, but future plans will go soon into the thousands. The demand for this softdrug is rising tremendously, it has doubled in the last year only and Jonny has to get a good part of his supplies from out of town, which he pays dearly and it makes his income less interesting. Growing his own supplies surely will change that.

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<<"What's new with the highway these days, John?", Slye asks John while both are still driving on highway 15 to meet the "Ganoga boys this morning". " I heard that it'll be ready within a year or so, right?"
"Well, the big bridge just ahead here in Phlox is completely finished now, and the bridge over the Ganoga marshlands only need some touch-ups and final cleaning. The group started on the "big highway bend" in Brokentree, where we're going and should be ready before next February. The loggers are about to finish clearing the route to the regional borderline before a the month ends and the bulldozers move in and have it leveled by next May, so I suppose and if the weather next year will allow it, that we should make the connection with the downcoming highway from Frampton in August and have it paved by October 68.", John had as an answer.
"Wow, that sounds good. What are you going to do after that, any new jobs in view or are you retiring?" Slye asks more.
" Oh yes, we got three more contracts already signed and one job will start in a couple of weeks when the loggers are finished with the highway. No retirement for me in view yet. The government wants us to connect the Winding River Outlet town, the little town at the sea, with us here. It'll be only a small paved road, but still a good 2 years of labour through those tough mountains. Then there are the rails outside of Access and Valmore that will need a road to access it and for maintenance and scheduled for 68 is an extension of highway 15 north towards Reverant. Gabber Inc got the whole contract this time, we will build it from Phlox to Reverant, almost 100 miles (160 km's) That will keep us busy for some years to come."
"That's excellent, I didn't think that you were that busy too." Terry was all surprised to see John that calm although he seems to have more jobs on his hands than he himself. And off they went crossing the big Winding River bridge in Phlox, only 20 minutes from meeting the kids in Brokentree.>>

The road towards the Winding River Outlet will take two years to construct and we can see a plan of it on the picture below.

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The Darkforests have been known to airplane pilots to avoid , ever since Sims started flying. Some planes never made it in the past. The best example is Robert Sweathers who crashed here in 1942. The whole area is offcially off limits to every airtraffic because of the electrical failure of planemotors over these forests. The reason is still mystified and no reasonable explications have been found.
The forests also contain the tallest and biggest trees in the region, some of them estimated to be towering more than 200 feet (60 m) above ground or maybe even more. Now that a road will soon be accessed near that region, the Government already has the area cut off for public access until the area has been scientifically explored. And this can take a few years. One thing for sure, we are all curious about this in the coming year.

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That's it and it was about time I guess. This is the last time that I bring you an immense update like this, future ones will be smaller, just like before, because this here is too much work for me. 42 pictures....ouffff. Hope you liked it though.
Now I will take a 10 day break to finish my Nexis farmprops Pack.
Have a nice weekend and week and hey, nothing like a comment to have the story go on.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Lior on November 13, 2011, 01:17:21 PM
Wow, that's what I call a big update. Anyway, nice pics and  wonderful history!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Dantes on November 13, 2011, 02:59:48 PM
So many construction sites.  :) It is great to watch as the region grows. :thumbsup: The port of loading for the wood you have succeeded very well.  :o
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on November 13, 2011, 06:03:48 PM
That was a nice storyline. And 42 pictures? O.o Also the dark forest is very intriguing. I can't wait to see that explored!

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on November 13, 2011, 06:26:26 PM
Very nice update, hard to believe Access has grown so big.
Gibson Air is great, and we finally have a golf course!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on November 13, 2011, 09:04:43 PM
Great (and long :P) update Fred. Just what I needed! BTW thanks for shortening William to Bill (Billy is what people call me here)!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on November 13, 2011, 09:48:28 PM
Fantastic catching up on things. Great update, and the marina and Darkforest area sound very interesting. Looking forward to it :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 13, 2011, 09:53:54 PM
Thank You all for the nice encouragements and I am glad that you liked it although it is quite long.
Glad you liked it too Will12, and Billy it might become later in the story.... ;)

Also thanks cyclone1001 and glad you liked the Gibson Air. I guess it has to start somewhere, right?

Oh, I forgot one picture in this update. It was supposed to be a late news report at the end of the update. So here it is........
" The principle Writer of the Access Tribune, Charles M Johnson, was on his way to meet the Ganoga Boys in Brokentree for the first interview of the adventurers, when he suddenly slammed into a pick-up's rear end at a very high speed, which left him under the vehicule for more than 20 minutes. With the help of people driving by, he came out intact without any harm though.
The ambulance took less than 10 minutes to get to the scene after being alarmed by a driver that drove to the nearest phone at Troy's Canteen half a mile uproad. Gregory Badger, an Ambulance helper from the Sterling Island, made sure that Johnson was ok before being released.
The 79 year old man in the Pick-up wasn't sure what exactly happened and told the press that he thought he missed the turn and must have hit a raccon. He  lost his cigar but was ok and mostly surprised when he saw the cream coulored convertable under his axel, asking how long that he was following him like this.
Some people further away partially blocked the road to make sure that no one with high speed would enter the accident scene.
Something that everyone present realized is that the Police from Access took more than a hour to get here. What if it was a crime, they asked themselves.
I suppose after this there will be a need for a regional Police that has different offices in different parts of the region. People said that they were all going to report this unacceptable delay of the Access police, who is for the moment the only "Law" available in the region to the Governor.
Johnson asked the Towing later to drive him to the meeting point of the Ganoga Boys."

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Have fun and thanks.... ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Terring7 on November 14, 2011, 01:12:16 AM
Very detailed and interesting tour :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Lior on November 14, 2011, 04:33:04 AM
NIce history, you're  very creative!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Ricky112233 on November 21, 2011, 11:43:38 AM
Awesome few updates, I swear, you have THE best MD of all MDs here at SC4D :)

Not quite sure if I posted here before...but that's not important..What is important is that you have A great MD and I hope you will continue this MD for a while or so.. :D

Could you please PM me about the rules for having a character in your MD?

ThankYou! $%Grinno$%

-Ricky :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Gringamuyloca on November 21, 2011, 07:26:03 PM
 :D Well Fred.. I still have at least a page and and 1/5  to peruse... and 'soak in' ! :thumbsup:
I'm loving the story line... (beware the "obituaries")  $%Grinno$%
Taking the time your 'craft' deserves!

Wishing you best of health!  ()stsfd()
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: cowcorn on November 24, 2011, 07:13:34 AM
Well this has taken quite a shape since I last checked in. &apls I am no certain I'll have the patience to catch up to the story like I did with NoG but I will definitely look through the pages to see how you developed this.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 30, 2011, 10:29:01 AM
Sorry folks, I left a couple weeks ago without leaving a message, but my wife Lynn (known as Lynncanox here) all of sudden decided to go on vacation in New Zealand again (it's early spring there), and we left so quickly that I even forgot my laptop....geeeez.
Now I had to go with her to do the shopping, taking walks in the evening and stay longer in restaurants, instead having some free time on my laptop.  &mmm

Anyways, we got back last sunday night. Now I 'm a little busy getting all the things straight that others have messed around with while I was gone.

Thanks Terring7,gringamuyloca and Lior, glad you find the story interesting and entertaining.

Ricky112233, I will send you a PM soon.

cowcorn, glad to see you again, I was starting to wonder where you disappeared to. Did you know that wellington bought some land in Grassland? A whole farm? I wonder what he has in mind with this.

There will be an update to the story before the next weekend ends. We will take another visit around Simland and this time have a "serious look" at the Snake River Region, south of Bluebay. We also meet the Ganoga Boys again, they finally got out of the wilderness after 16 days and were largely welcomed by many folks of the region.
See you then, and hey....thanks for the comments. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Gringamuyloca on November 30, 2011, 11:29:44 AM
 ;D Glad to learn you are taking time to take time Fred... Good on Lynn to move fast enough for you to leave your laptop at home...   ??? you'd better keep an eye out for a cape behind her back - sounds like she's got 'super human' skills.  ;)   $%Grinno$%

Looking forward to where you will lead us.

Cheers!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on December 01, 2011, 12:39:24 AM
Quote from: mrbisonm on November 30, 2011, 10:29:01 AM
Now I had to go with her to do the shopping, taking walks in the evening and stay longer in restaurants, instead having some free time on my laptop.

Sounds like a pleasant change to me!
Did you have a good vacation? For most of us this time of year appears to be quite busy, because like the years before the months of october and november seem very quiet on this site.

Greets, Frank
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 01, 2011, 01:40:42 PM
Quote from: FrankU on December 01, 2011, 12:39:24 AM
Did you have a good vacation?

I guess I did, Frank....lol. After all, I was in my most preferred country. ;)
This place is so far from home that I don't even think of Canada anymore when I'm there, probably the reason why I relax so much in NZ.

I am back with writing an update for this MD, and also finishing the renders of my farmproppack (MFP1)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on December 01, 2011, 08:17:34 PM
New Zealand? You are one lucky man, Fred. Have fun.

And glad to see Badger finally getting some notice. ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 03, 2011, 06:55:29 PM
Well, this is the eightieth update of the Winding River River Project already. Thanks to all who have commented to this story.



Update 80

Snake River             


Saturday, June 17th, 1967
                           Today on this date ... then:

- 1579 – Sir Francis Drake claims a land he calls Nova Albion (modern California) for England.
- 1885 – The Statue of Liberty arrives in New York Harbor.
- 1944 – Iceland declares independence from Denmark and becomes a republic.
- Born: 1239 – King Edward I of England (Edward Longshanks) (d. 1307)
- Died: 1463 – Princess Catherine of Portugal (b. 1436)


Today we will visit another of my regions that I have in the Winding River folder. Sofar we haven't seen, nor talked about it much. It is the Snake River Region.

This is one of my first regions that I ever "hand" terraformed, probably 7 or 8 years ago. Originally I was going to make the NoG (Nexis of Genesis) CJ on ST with this region, but at the same time I worked on a larger map and chose the last one for the long lasting CJ of NoG. This region however I have played on for ages, not as it is now, but I used to have a city on these 15 (5x3) medium tiles with a population of a little over 1 Million citizens. Unfortunetly the map with the city disappeared in 2009 with the "big Crash" of my computer, while the virgin map was luckily burned on a cd. Today, everything is burnt on a Cd or DVD and I have more than 60 discs of SC4 stuff on my computershelf.

Back to the story.....

Snake River is the most southern region of Simland, touching the borders of the southern neighbor. It is a smaller region, covering only the lower river valley itself. Mostly existant because of its rich agricultural soils, Snake River has a total of 32,866 population at the end of 1967.
The source of the Snake River is the big Sunday Lake, east of the region, and which covers about 20 percent of the large flatlands of the southern plains. The river ends its journey only after 65 km's (about 41 miles) into the Mole Bay from where you can barely see the Nardicians Islands out east in the Revera Sea when you're on top of the last rock on the Peninsula.
North of Snake River lies Bluebay, which is directly connected with Snake River by the old Highway 15, the part that was built 3 decennies ago, and two other small country roads. Also a simple road heads toward the Capitol city (Lakestead) north-west. Route 177 west starts in the town of Snake River, leading through the Milby region into the Lakestead region and ends in Pullman, a small town in the mountains near the City of Lakestead. All that can be seen with more details on the Simland Map here:

http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/2665/largesimlandmap.png

The region of Snake River has only two small municipalities, Snake River on the coastal area and Deerpond inland some miles upriver, which is only a big village of about 4000 citizens.
Snake River was founded in 1604, which means that it is the oldest town of Simland. Here the first settlers arrived and settled inside the protective rivermouth. The land is rich in its soil, therefore producing excellent agricultural harvests. Besides the Lakestead region, it is the second best place to grow crops in Simland. Some even say that Deerpond is the capitol of agriculture, strange if you consider the size of the village. There is also some seafishing activity in Snake River, receiving the harvests of the Nardician Island's fishing industries and lately some tourists come and see the ruins that are still visible of the first settlers.
A ferry can be taken from here (and from Bluebay) to the Islands of Nardicia, one of the two places that offer such a service and connection with the outer islands besides by air.

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First let's go to the small village of Deerpond, formerly Deerpass, founded only a few years after Snake River. Some settlers moved upriver in the early years to find new agricultural plains to settle down. Deerpass was populated in 1624 and quickly became the farming capitol of the new Simland Nation. In 1894, the whole village burnt down when attacked by the last raid of the Simland aborigins. It took a few years to rebuild it and it was refounded as Deerpond in 1909.
As we can see on the picture below, Deerpond is small, having a population barely over 4,000 today. The village was named after the big quantity of deer coming to the little pond to feed and water. The pond is directly connected with the Snake River. Surrounding the small town are the farms that have been here eversince the settlers cut down the forests and drained the prairies.

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*Downtown* Deerpond is marked with the tall municipal Hall that was built in 1909 when it was founded, again. The Townhall is surrounded by some offices which are generally connected with the agriculture of the region, such as farm insurance Companies, Agronome's offices and some federal offices such as the ministry of agriculture. Mainstreet is fairly quiet during all hours at days or nights. Not much going on's for the younger population around here. They have to go further east to the coast to find entertainments adapt to their ages.

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The only place where someone could get some entertainment around here is to visit the farmer's fair which is open to the public twice a year. It offers fresh harvested crops and agricultural products for sale and to sample, plus a small variety of musical band shows in the evenings of weekends, which are more and more common in Simland these days. There is also a small fleamarket type event held once a month on this terrain, offering everything from fleas to wheelbarrows.

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Surprizingly Deerpond has a small trainstation that offers a ride to Bluebay and back 4 times a day. The station was built just before the war to deliver soldiers to and from Deerpond and surroundings. A small percentage of the Deerpond citizens today travel to Bluebay to work. It takes them 45 minutes by train and 1 hour by car to get there. Bluebay offers a lot more variety on jobs than Deerpond, which is limited with certain trades only.

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Probably called the capitol of agriculture because of the grain shipping station just out of town, Deerpond is really the center of agricultural interest. Trucks from all directions come here to empty their loads of either grains or vegetables and have it shipped to the Maincity of Lakestead where it is converted and offered to the population. The station offers more than 500 steady jobs to the population, the main job offering organization in the area.
Deerpond is where the Mayor of Access Center, Steven Bartlett was born. The Bartlett's still own several farms in the area, cultivating corn and barley. The family has been around for several centuries.
There aren't any schools in Deerpond, nor Police, all that is available in the coastal town.

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Now let's move a little closer to the coastal areas of the region, where we come across of the Snake River National Park, the first park ever founded by the Nation in the early 19th century (1822). It is thanks to its ninth president who spent his freetime here to fish salmons and hunt deer, goats and moose that this national refuge was founded. Enlarged in 1888 by a governor, the area now holds a good part of the Snake River region on both sides of the river. Acces to the park is still limited to some, but today's governor of the region promissed the population lately that his plans include a better access and presentation of the National Park in the near future. Belonging to the part also is the famous French Point, a big protuding rock on the river's side, where the Simlish army was surprized and defeated in a confrontation with the French during the 1785/87 war.

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It is time now to go to the coast, where we visit the maintown of the region, Snake River itself. As said before, the town was founded in 1604 by the first conquerors of Simland. The land around this area as we know of as Simland, was several times lost to the English and then to the French, but never was the castle of Snake River taken by enemy forces and in the late 19th century finally all three came to an agreement to settle down their borders in the south, north and west. Simland was born as we know it today.
Before we go into the town itself, here is the area of the Mole County, where it all started and where the first Simsettlers landed in 1604. Only a small monument and an engraved brass plaque marks the spot today near the ferry to the Turtle's island. The administration of the area goes to the town itself because no actual village is found here, except some residentials here and there on the mainland and on Turtle's Island. A small ferry line connects with the mainland. These islands are well known to boaters and shipcaptains, because many have either sunken or stranded here sometime in their passage through the islands. Full of sharpedged rocks and gravely like banks, boating is very difficult and only recommended for those with experience or local fishermen. Because of the islands at the rivermouth of the Snake River, it is rich in wildlife and fish. Many fishermen from the town and also from the Nardician Islands come here early in the spring to take their part of the massive lobster migration that come through the area every year.

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Seen from another view, this is the same area as before, showing us the small islands of the River's mouth and the marina of the peninsula.

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These below are the last remains of the Mole Castle that the English and French never were able to take and which won the war between all three nations. Today the site is restricted to a few organized and guided visits to tourists which have the privilege to a closer look at the oldest ruins of Simland. (that is besides the rockskulls found in the Winding River and maybe also besides the ruins the Ganoga Boys found and will soon announce publically from the Ganoga Valley, once confirmed)
From the top of this massive cliff, we can easily see the contours of the Nardician Islands out in the sea. That was also the reason why the castle was built here, as a lookout and a protecting canon base to stop invaders from going up the river. One can access this historical site either by boat or car. A road from the town rolls over the cliffy peninsula to the castle.

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This is the biggest town in the region, Snake River, which is on both sides of the river and connected by a ferry which transports cars and people every hour during daytime and every 3 hours during nightime to the other side and back. Both parts of the town hold about 25,000 citizens together. Protected from seawinds by the higher peninsula, it is quite evident why the first settlers took roots here.
Snake River is a deep river as we can see on the right side of the below picture, therefore easily accessible for ships as long as they are guided through the rivermouths rocks and isles.

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Sometimes whales come into the harbourbay where freshwater and saltwater meet, probably because they have done so for thousands of years or maybe just because of curiosity. A small boatride for tourists to get closer to these mammal giants is available at that time of year. Besides for the Nardician Islands, this is the only coastal location, besides the Winding River Outlet, left in Simland where these whales can still be regularily seen these days.

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http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xo2bVbDtiX8

The small fishing harbour of Snake River is the other jobgiving activity in the region besides agriculture. Here many students from Bluebay come every spring and fall to earn a few §§ while working for the local fishing industry. The ferry seen here is the one that brings the residents and tourists to the other side and also one line which goes to the Nardician Islands once a day.

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The town's history can be seen on every streetcorner, but slowly and without caring much about the heritage, new buildings and structures are  overtaking the first founded town of Simland and its heritage. They call it : Progress.

80.16
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The old downtown of Snake River is still one of the most visited places of the town, although it is also not very clean and maintained. You can even have lunch at a McDo in one of the historical buildings of the town nowadays. The wooden harbour posts that used to be here to anchor ships and unload their cargo have long gone and only a few leftovers can be found here and there alongside the straight rockshore.

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Although the town is a touristical attraction in some parts of the town, other more hidden parts do not look so touristicly attractive. The slums have invaded the town in the late fourties, after the war. Unemployments because of closing manufactures and the missing connections with the rest of the nation have made this town only a place to live for the lower grades of the society. Appartments are lowcosting and living in Snake River is less expensive than elsewhere, but jobs are rare.
A modern skyscraper has started to grow and was quickly abandonned a few weeks later. Now it stands sadly among the residential blocks and no one seems to know what to do with it.

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Also the bigger industries are being slowly abandonned in the industrial park, creating more jobless residents. Will Snake River completely be abandonned one day?, many ask themselves.

80.19
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Everywhere you look, you either get a reminder of the oldtown's ruins, or the leftovers from some stranded boats and ships that didn't make it through the islands. Here near downtown is one of those wrecks, where the other half probably sunk down the abyss into the deep of the river's mouth. Today only a few hobby fisherman hang out here trying to hook one of those big ones between the marine ruins.

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On the other side of the river, on the peninsula, things seem to look different, as if we have reached another town. Here we have tourist attractions like the first religious building of Simland, the St-Mathias Monastery built in the 1780's. Today it is open to the public with guided tours and soon it is planned to be converted into a hotel, if things in the region pick up. Here also, one can still see some smaller historical buildings, of which some have been restored to its original state.
Where today the appartment homes stand, some time ago hangars used to be part of the harbour that stored the cargo coming from Europe and then were shipped to the new blooming town of Lakestead eastward in the 19th and 20th century by horse and trucks. This harbour once was the busiest place in Simland, before the foundation of Beecherfalls and Frampton up north at the turn of the 19th and 20th century, where a new international harbour was built.

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One of the places to visit in the region is the big Othmar's castle that once protected the citizens of the harbourtown. Funds were raised and restoring of the almost 275 year old castle have started only last year. It will be the major attraction to become of the town. The clocktower granted by the English in 1832 when the war finished, the small cathedral that was added in 1845 along with the castle and the monastery will one day hopefully become a major historical site to visit in Simland.
The only ships landing in the harbour today  are either privately owned yachts or this wooden water wheel powered steamboat that will take tourists around the harbour, the islands and the peninsula during the summermonths in exchange for a few tokens to pay for the restauration and conservation of the ruins of the Snake River bay.

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I hope that you at least somewhat enjoyed the second part of the regions of Simland visits. The next time we come back will be with the arrival of the "Ganoga Boys" and some news around the region of the Winding Riverand its citizens. Meanwhile please suggest another region that you would like to see in another Simland Regional Visit. See the regions of Simland by visiting the general Simland map on the link on top of this post. Sofar we have seen and visited Bluebay and Snake River. Which region should I show you the next time we follow this series.


- Frampton and Beecher Falls
- Reverant
- Halo & Roy
- Chadelaine Island
- Winding River Outlet
- Capitol City of Lakestead
- Sandom
- Goose Bay
- Milby
- Nardician Islands

Other regions, such as Moe's River, Stukley, Upper Winding River, Three Islands and Rocklake have not been finished yet and will be available only later sometime.

Have a nice weekend and week, I'll be back with an update before the week ends. ;)

Fred

Fullsized PNG pictures with more details of the region can be found here:

1967 Satelite View...

http://img15.imageshack.us/img15/6131/snakerivervalley1.png

1967 Transportationview...

http://img535.imageshack.us/img535/3888/snakerivervalley2.png




Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Ricky112233 on December 04, 2011, 01:47:24 AM
Great update!

Snake River is beautiful!

I would like to ask one thing though...

Where did you get that water and terrain mod? :)

-Ricky :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on December 04, 2011, 05:30:55 AM
Fantastic update, I would certainly like to see more in this area.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Gringamuyloca on December 04, 2011, 08:09:02 AM
 :satisfied: what a perfect way to enjoy the first cuppa of the day.

I will admit to thinking something terrible had happened to the Ganoga Boys, when I first saw pic 80.08, the eagles making me think of vultures circling...I was much happier after reading the caption. $%Grinno$%

As always, your underwater detailing catches my eye, and the pictures of Turtle's Island and environs are perfect examples of the master at work!  &apls

I sure enjoyed the look around Snake River, and learning about the people and and the landscape they call home. (I also love looking around for all your great custom content too! 60 discs??!!! No wonder it looks so good!)

I'm looking forward to 'hooking up' with the Ganoga Boys...and wherever the path may lead us next!  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 04, 2011, 10:23:25 AM
Hey thanks for the comments.
Ricky112233, Below is what I have in my *Terrain Mod* folder. Don't ask me where I got it from because I have so much stuff (14Gb's/ +- 55,000 files) in both of my Plugins folders, that it is impossible to remember.
The watermod is almost as old as the game, if I remember right, I have it ever since.
If you want to find any files below, just ask it on the Where can I find threads. I'm sure that they can up with better info than I. ;)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg248.imageshack.us%2Fimg248%2F3232%2F529r.jpg&hash=1c5a41eff46b4f0e1c6bc55e49bb996c183beeb7)

Gringamuyloca, now don't choke on your coffee yet, the Ganoga Boys are just fine...lol...I am still working on the custom lots for this event.
The 60 CD's aren't just custom lots and BATs, but also all the regions that I played on and created , MD's like NoG (Nexis of Genesis) and many tutorials that I picked up from many sites, etc.

Cyclone1001, I suppose that we come back to Snake River one day. ;)


<< " Did you hear the big Boom last night, some kind of an explosion?", asked Mike on the way to meet the Ganoga Boys with his boss, "Some said that it came from the military Base."
"No, I didn't, but my daughter told me about this morning during breakfast," John answered, "She said that it woke her up at 3 AM".
"You know John, I am still suspicious with these things about the army, I'm sure that there's something fishy going on there, as a matter of fact I always did, and that ever since it started back when they found our two highway workers, dead beside the Porolium gas sources. I just can't help thinking sbout it every day." Mike continued.
"Mike, Mike, Mike...." John interrupted, taking a deep breath, "Please don't start that again. We all know that somehow you're a little fanatic about this, after you spied on the army a few years ago....and almost got caught, remember that?"
" Yeah, that was quite an adventure", Mike said and both started laughing and continued to talk about it, while they only had about 3 miles to go to be at the meeting point at the Ganoga Wilderness entry.>>

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Gringamuyloca on December 04, 2011, 07:46:46 PM
 :thumbsup: Master of Back Ups!
... and intrigue!  &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on December 04, 2011, 08:09:40 PM
This is the real Snake River - or  ??? -  &mmm - is yours the real one?   $%#Ninj2  The resemblance  is uncanny  :shocked2:

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Good history lesson nevertheless.

- Jim <aka, keeping Bob alive>     :D  :D

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on December 04, 2011, 11:04:14 PM
Nice heritage update Fred. Hope Billy hasn't died unexpectantly because of my absence.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 05, 2011, 08:43:01 AM
Thanks Gringamuyloca, need to keep the intrigue alive, besides some parts of the story have started with the beginning of this journal and we get back to that from time to time to see the developments. ;) That's what it makes interesting.......

jmyers2043, that looks somewhere like the Badlands or canyon lands. Is that the "real" Snake River of WY you 've showed here?

Quote from: Will12 on December 04, 2011, 11:04:14 PM
Nice heritage update Fred. Hope Billy hasn't died unexpectantly because of my absence.
Don't worry Will, I don't let my characters die that fast....;)

Fred

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on December 05, 2011, 10:18:43 PM
- Wonderful update

- I loved the idea of those islets, and they're well done!!

- Deer-pond is a charming little place.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on December 10, 2011, 10:38:06 AM
Just catching up on the last few updates... wow, that was a long update!

And I love to see the old mixed with the new in update 80!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on December 10, 2011, 12:04:52 PM
Very very nice update!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: danielcote on December 11, 2011, 09:16:28 AM
I like deer pond. The buildings seem to fit so nicely into the landscape.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 11, 2011, 08:06:56 PM
Glad you all liked the last update.
I wasn't able to finish my next update (#81) but I will show you a little Teaser and some news of what's coming up.

I hope we remember that we have shortly visited the small village of Holland a few updates back and I told you about that it had nice small waterfalls. I have promissed then that I'll show you some more details when we come back.....well?

Here is Holland, the smallest independant village in the region, populated with only a handfull of farmers and some simple workers and folks that take care of themselves. Not known by most of the rest of the population of the Winding River Valley, Holland is far out in the foothills of the mighty Mount Totem. There's nothing here, except for a little dark tavern that offers Beer, coca and milk, plus one or two local girls to dance on a stage on weekends only. But......it owns the most beautiful little waterfalls yet known in the region and only half a handful of outsiders have found this lately, having heard about the falls from locals and having visited it. Maybe this is the beginning of something, now that someone else than the local kids know about it?

80B.01
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It's a long ride to drive up here from civilization and the next stop down is Phlox, about an hour and something down the hills.
Where exactly is Holland? Well....it is in the foothills of the Maybee County. The only way there is by a small unmaintained little sandroad northwest of Phlox winding up and over the Maybee Pass, leading right into the Milts Town just outside the Winding River Region.

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In the coming update, we will visit this little place in a detailed manner, having a closer look at the falls and its surroundings. We also meet the Ganoga Boys that just came out of the Ganoga Wilderness and have a short trip to Access Center, some things are again changing there.

See you all then, I hope. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on December 11, 2011, 11:47:35 PM
Fred I will seldom post her as I am on a 7 week vacation in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia with my family
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 12, 2011, 10:08:13 AM
Quote from: Will12 on December 11, 2011, 11:47:35 PM
Fred I will seldom post her as I am on a 7 week vacation in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia with my family

Well, I wish you a happy and wonderful vacation in those beautiful countries, of which I only have seen Laos for now. (gotta go to Cambodia sometime.
I will take care of William Sculpten (our computer student), while you're gone, don't worry he's in good hands. ;) He probably has gone up a step or two when you come back.
Take care,

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on December 12, 2011, 11:03:12 AM
Quote from: Will12 on December 11, 2011, 11:47:35 PM
Fred I will seldom post her as I am on a 7 week vacation in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia with my family

Wow, nice trip! Have fun on your vacation!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on December 12, 2011, 09:18:41 PM
Charming little waterfall that! Great place to set up camp and roast a fish or two  ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on December 12, 2011, 11:05:13 PM
Thanks guys for your kind words. As I have wifi at the moment I can post but I probably won't in Cambodia and definitely won't in Laos but in Vietnam I might so maybe I will post
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: carlfatal on December 13, 2011, 03:36:08 PM
Hi Fred,
finally i´ve made a hookup, have read the complete story now!
I needed a lot of time for this, but i´m happy to have done this. To see all the details of the story on the pictures again was interesting and always done nice. I´m intrigued in this army thing and these towers are waiting for a reliable answer. I think it´s more fishy than ever. After buiding this canal to shorten the river i want to know for what they do all this and what they have found really. I don´t believe in "porolium", sounds like a word from some tintin story to me.
And aside from this i´ve learned a lot only by looking and reading.  :thumbsup:
And also You´re presenting this huge set of wonderful regions representing a complete country - i´m addicted, i´m a fan...
Although i would like a better, nearer spot of the fall!  ;)
And away from the army i´m eager to here more from the ganoga boys and this ruins they´ve found in the wilderness. What is this, will we find out something about the ancient sims, will the myths of the " i don´t know the name anymore - what a shame" folks be true?
Greetz, Carl
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 16, 2011, 01:56:47 PM
I will be back with an update this weekend, just trying yo find the time to upload all the pictures and prepare the text. Meanwhile I have this below, The last newspaper clip that came out in Access Center.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg847.imageshack.us%2Fimg847%2F2950%2F8100accesstribunejun67.png&hash=41b98770d76a35997f335a4a987f7563bb330448)

carlfatal, thank you for your nice comment. So you think it sounds fishy too, all that mystery and seek and hide about the armybase in West River? Unlucky for Mike Allheimer (john Gabber's friend and foreman) that he doesn't know you, because we will talk about this in the next update, and he surely 's got something in mind and is eager to find out the basic truth of it all. ;)

And you're also are interested in the ancient sims or "skull people"  and the city ruins that the Ganoga boys recently found? Again, we will talk about this in the next three upcoming updates.
The ruins they found in the Ganoga wilderness are probably from the lost city of Corse or Korse, a legend up to now, but that is to the scientists and archeologists to decide. I wonder, is there a connection between the skullpeople, the porolium and Korse? ...
See you all soon

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: frostwolf on December 16, 2011, 02:21:19 PM
Holland looks like a fairly nice place. Any other little communities tucked into corners of the map?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 16, 2011, 11:35:32 PM
Quote from: frostwolf on December 16, 2011, 02:21:19 PM
Holland looks like a fairly nice place. Any other little communities tucked into corners of the map?

Yes, there are two more little forgotten places like Holland, maybe even a little smaller. One isn't far from Access Center, right south into the hills, and the other isn't even considered as a village yet, but more and more homes are attaching to this little place near the Stoke Mountains.
We will see them soon enough. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 23, 2011, 09:22:50 AM
I'll be back in a few days, meanwhile enjoy the holidays and have yourself a ...

Very Nice
Merry Christmas

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on December 23, 2011, 10:46:38 AM
Hey Fred

Quote from: mrbisonm on December 11, 2011, 08:06:56 PM
... Here is Holland, the smallest independant village in the region, populated with only a handfull of farmers and some simple workers and folks that take care of themselves...... a short trip to Access Center..... things are again changing there....

Does that mean that Holland will finally have phone service?

- Jim



Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: carlfatal on December 23, 2011, 11:20:35 AM
Hi Fred,
that´s typical! I want to read the news, but everything really important is somewhere else!
I will wait till i can hear what the ganoga boys will tell us here!

Away from that i wish You a merry Christmas too and a lot o snow (if You like it - here it is more wet, warm and disgusting although i don´t love snow  ???).
Greetz, Carl
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on December 24, 2011, 08:25:17 AM
oh come on Mr Sly there's enough jobs to go around for all of us.  :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Gringamuyloca on December 24, 2011, 05:29:40 PM
 :thumbsup:
Happy Holidays Fred & Lynn, and to all of The Winding River Project's readers!

Peace, goodwill and prosperity to all.  &bis&

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rooker1 on December 31, 2011, 06:22:09 AM
Happy New Year Fred and friends, I wish you all the best.
Robin :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Pat on January 02, 2012, 07:46:34 PM
Fred amazing simply amazing here, ive caught up here and I love it!!! I do hope you and Lynn have had a wonderful Holiday time and all went well!!!

~Patrick
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Tomas Neto on January 08, 2012, 07:42:18 AM
Your updates are always very nice!!!! Great work!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: ricardomiranda on January 18, 2012, 09:59:17 AM
Very nice updates, wonderful job !
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on January 18, 2012, 10:59:36 AM
Thanks everyone for your comments, I will be back in a few days, probably this weekend. Got still some things to do irl... ;) Hang in there, the story continues!

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on January 19, 2012, 04:20:39 AM
Can't wait!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on January 19, 2012, 06:59:23 AM
"the bison awakens" you could say
Oh and can't wait!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on January 22, 2012, 01:02:45 PM
Sorry, can't make the upload for this weekend, too many things to do irl and update quite complicated.....(but very interesting) ;)

It'll be later this week....

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Gringamuyloca on January 23, 2012, 03:27:30 PM
one thing about a Winding River update - it's totally worth waiting for!  :thumbsup:

Stay well mrbisonm!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on January 23, 2012, 10:47:25 PM
The story is finished, now I've got to get (take) the pics.....it will all be ready by next sunday, unless.....we have a terrible earthquake, or more likely a snowstorm (blizzard) with a couple of meters of snow. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on January 28, 2012, 08:13:05 PM
Finally.....sorry to have you waiting. I should be ok for the next months now, bringing more regular updates to my MD, nothing else is planned, except maybe a little "southern vacation" in March, maybe Cuba or a place nearby. We haven't decided yet.



Update 81

The Return from Ganoga             


Saturday, June 17th, 1967
                           Today on this date ... then:


- 1579 – Sir Francis Drake claims a land he calls Nova Albion (modern California) for England.
- 1885 – The Statue of Liberty arrives in New York Harbor.
- 1944 – Iceland declares independence from Denmark and becomes a republic.

- Born: 1239 – King Edward I of England (Edward Longshanks) (d. 1307)

- Died: 1463 – Princess Catherine of Portugal (b. 1436)
[/size]



More than 1200 people gathered at the Gabber Park Arena to see the Premier Minister's first public appearance in the Winding River Valley. The Meeting was held in the Gabber Park Arena, which was prior to his visit severly monitored. Prime Minister Harry K. Liebherr came to Access for a certain reason, to advice the population of their future in the Valley. As soon as he arrived on stage, the doors of the arena's entrance were closed and he started his speech by presenting himself and talking about how he admires the region's visit. He was accomponied on stage by General M. Placid and Lakestead's Governor, Mrs Davida Jonets. The crowd was silent, admiring their idols in front of them in this small region for the first time.

<< "As most of you know," the Minister started,"we have found massive crude oil, coal and copper deposits in the Ganoga wilderness and its surroundings. Oil is needed more and more in the world's consommation and therefore soon to be worth a fortune and an economical boost to the region. The Government will exploit these drillings for the crude oil and sell them to different Oil cOmpanies from all over world, which in their part will be obliged to install themselves here in the region and employ their workers and researchers from our population. The same for the mining Companies. This will give the region new jobs with better pays and a certified future for many years to come.
I am happy to be the first to inform you that we, the federal government, will invest more than 10 Billion §§'s into the region in the next 10 years to make this one very important part of Simland. If any poor folks will be left at that time, then it will be by their own will."
The crowed applaused heavily after hearing his short statement. As the population quite well knows, Prime Minister has in the past kept his words everytime he said so.
As he continued, "Researchers and scientist along with Geologists and other specialists have been in the area for several years now and they just finished their complete report this spring. The results are astonishing concerning the qaulity and quantity of different ressources. We would like to start as soon as possible, which will not be later than by the end of this year. The accessing roadbuilding contract is already signed with a local Company, the same that is actually still working on Highway 15 at the moment, Gabber Inc. You will hear from them soon, needing to hire 500 more workers for the project to access the wilderness and its surroundings.">>

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The Premier continued with his speech for almost an hour, thanked the public for their interest and wished them a healthy and profitable future for the next decade. Then the General explained the presence of the army and its future also (what we already heard from the Colonel), while the Governor underlined and confirmed everything said and that she will be in charge to see that these promisses are kept and come into action.


After the event, John and Mike, who were present at the Premier's speech, are on their way to meet the "Ganoga Boys".
<<" So we got the contract with the government to build the roads for the oil drilling and other mineral exploitations?" Mike asked John on the way to meet the "Ganoga Boys. "Did you get the plans yet?" he smilingly asked, glad that the Company is going to expand a little again.
"Yeah, I got the plans this morning from the Premier's secretary. Shanon will make some duplicates and you should have them on your desk by Monday morning." John answered, " Have a look at them and tell me what you think at the latest......ehem, let's see......ok, next monday? Does that sound reasonable." >>
" No problem, Mike, you'll have it before the weekend," Mike winked at John, knowing quite well that he will be happier with a prior date that he asked for.>>[/color]


When John and Mike arrived at the meeting point of the Ganoga Boys near the last bridge of Highway 15, a parking place for the car was hard to find in between all the machinery and people around.
<< "Geeez, I didn't think there were that many folks coming to meet the boys. This is great!" said Mike on the arrival!>>

The kids already arrived about 15 minutes ago and talking to most everyone that  came and was present. People from Access, Phlox, Grasslake and even some from Sandom and friends from Bluebay were curious and here to meet the heroes that just came out of the most unfriendly wilderness in Simland.
Questions were asked by everyone, but not every questions was answered. Mike Allheimer, who was the one that had the Home Radio all the time during the trip and was their only direct contact with the civilization, went searching to meet them again. John came over to his son and congratulated him on becoming a yound man that he was so proud of.
<<" Here Dad," Charlie said to his father John after shaking his hand in all honour and reaching out a wooden cigarbox to him, " give that box to Michael Truex as quickly as possible, it is containing dozens of filmrolls from the trip, some important ones that we want to see again as soon as possible.".
"Who is Michael Truex?," Father John Gabber asked all surprized, not knowing or having heart of this fellow yet.
"What do you mean??? He is the owner of the small Hamburgerstand in Access on Acces Rd, he is always there when the place is open." Charlie answered.
Still all surprized and confused about the wooden box John looked at his son, "Why him for? What is he going to do with that?"
Taking his Dad by the arm and pulling him a little away from the mass of people that came to see them, " Didn't Oncle Mike tell you? We have an agreement with him through Steve Gibson and he will be developping all our pictures in private without a public eye having access to them. He's got all the stuff needed for this because he is an amateur train photographer. Gibson told us that the pictures of the lost city should be kept confidential until we know exactly what we're going to do with it and how to announce it, and Truex is about the most confident fellow around, he says."
"How come I wasn't informed?" again John asked all surprized.
"Oncle Mike didn't tell you for real?" Charlie asked, this time it was him with a surprized look on his face.
"Mike?"
"Yeah, he said that he'll tell you"
"Mike?"again John repeated and added, "Mike can't even tell anyone anything that he heard five seconds ago....you know that, don't you?"
"Ah, it doesn't matter Dad, now you know. Please bring these rolls to Mr Truex today, he will be waiting for them, unless Uncle Mike didn't tell him neither. I have to go to see Meaden first. Can you?" Charlie added while he was looking all around the area for his buddies, who have seemed to be disappeared in the mass of people and then handed over the box to John again, who took it freely this time.>>

There were about 120 people that came to meet the kids and that had followed their daily story through the Access Tribune and the local Radio station. Some of the visitors were Nethaniel Wellington, who was very interested in these boys and the soldier, Gregory Badger, who was also quite curious about them. Then Jordan Meaden was there with Steve Gibson, the pilot. Jorden was part of the expedition until he broke his ankel three quarters through and now he was there with his "walking sticks" as he calls them.
Since the newspaper and the radio were constantly on the story during the last two weeks, the subject became quite interesting for some folks. Those folks were all here, ready to meet the Wilderness Gang in person.
Even George Westwood, Pat's brother who is now the regional Director of the museum in Valmore, Diarmuid's father and Charles M.Johnson, the Access Tribune Writer were present.

They all met at the last Highway bridge column, still under construction. Although it was saturday, some of the bridge workers were still present, so were the logging transporters, who really had it easier on weekends to pick up the logs that are cut for the highway. But today the site was swarmed with all kinds of folks and making it somewhat more difficult for the workers to not only concentrate but also actually get something done.
The Local Police and an ambulance were also present by orders from the town council of Phlox.

81.01
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After Charlie left his father to find his partners, John told Mike about him having forgotten to mention the film delivery to Truex in Access Center, and that he was going to look around the place a little and talk to some of his foremen to see the last bridge on the highway project being finished. Alex Puto, the bridge engineer, wasn't around today, probably busy with the boating service of his girlfriend in Phlox. It is saturday anyways, thought Gabber and he had a good look around the buildingsite all by himself.

81.02
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The bridge will be longer here and cover a good part over ground, as planned. But this is because of the unstable grounds around this area, just like the ones over the first Ganoga outlet, where Puto had a lot of problems to create a solid and longlasting bridge. Many rocks of all sizes made the base where lots and lots of concrete blocks were poured to support the heavy structures of the bridge. Once the highway over these is build, one more canal will lead the water out from the Ganoga marshes, there where the logs are being picked up today. Such a canal will assure the Highway engineer that the water from the melting snow in the spring or from heavy downpoors in the wilderness will not overflow the highway and damage it. Well thought, Mr Puto.

81.03
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Here is a closer look of the bridge part that is already done. The lower street will be torn down, once the bridge is ready to be used.

81.04
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And a final look of the area from far above. Here is where the highway 35 ends for the moment being. The blue lines indicate the two possibilities to build the overflow canal.

81.05
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...and a birdseye view of the location of the last bridge on Highway 15 in the region.

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Now let's go to West River and see what is happening there lately. The army has started to fill the riverbed after it was locked off the mainriver with permanent dams. It was announced that it is a matter of needing more terrain, although much more , and way less expensive terrains are available all around the area. But the army insists that this is the better way for them. Again an unillogical decision to some Access's citizens.
Instead of getting the gravel and earth from the hills or simply make a hole somewhere else, they extrude the filling material from the nearby underground area. Why this is done, again no one seems to know, nor a good reason was stated what this diffing is all about.
Now more than ever, Mike Allheimer, who has been doubtful with the army's decisions ever since they arrived in the region almost 8 years ago, is now turning on himself constantly, getting more and more anxious about wanting to know the truth.

<< "I'm going back there John, the temptation is too much. I just H A V E to know what these sons of guns are up to and what is all the fuzz about that Porolium, the digging and the damn secrets and all those lies they are constantly putting under our noses. I've had it! Enough!" Mike told John on the next day at John's weekend home.
John knew that there was no sense at all trying to change his mind. He also knew that Mike is more serious that he has ever seen him and he only could say: "Don't forget that you're almost 50 years old and you haven't done this sort of expedition in a long time."
"I am still training every day and feel that I am in good enough shape to do it. This time I'll go underground, it'll take me a whole day or two. I've got everything planned since years. Now you don't forget that I was the best in the special forces when we were young, and we've been places where not even a Ladybug would go, remember? I still got that in my bloodvessels." Mike said."But I need help, I don't want to leave my pick-up parked at the gates for two days, I need transportation to and back, is that ok with you."
"No problem, Buddy, that's the least I can do, so when will it be?"
"Not very soon, I've still got some plans and materials to figure out and besides I will wait until they are really busy with the filling up of that riverbed. It'll be on a weekday, when they are all working, a lot easier for me to wander around as a worker during the working hours."
John couldn't help and looked quite seriously at Mike, "Did I ever tell you, that you're totally nuts!?"
"Many times John." Mike answered winking his left eye as usual and put a term to their conversation, leaving for his home to have a good look at the plans of the new roads he got.>>

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The material they dug up earlier from underneath the base is now being transported as the basic foundation of the riverbed's filling. Millions of
§ are being invested in this mysterious projects without the population knowing half of it's use or logical explanation. While the old river is slowly being pumped out, dozens and dozens of trucks and bulldozers fillup what once was covered with water.

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The center of the base is now almost ready it seems, not much construction seen lately. What had to be build was built it seems. Another one that is asking a lot of question by himself about this matter is Slye, the sawmill owner and Alex, who was part of the first "raid" on the army base many years ago. Both of them are helping Mike with his plans and organisation of the trespassing event to solve this mystery once and for all.

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While we are here in West River, let's have a small look around the base. The village has grown a little bit, but is still under the Access's administration and taxroll. Folks here call it West River, but uptown they gave it the name of Valmore North. We will stick with West River until this is totally settled.

81.10
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Just a few yards from there, new homes are invading the countryside and what once used to be on a "cul-de-sac" in the middle of nowhere, is today slowly being surrounded with residentials. The Roy Regional Slaughterhouse used to be alone in this location only a year ago. Now the road continues to the airport's northern industrial park. In Access' Townhall, a few complaints about the slaughterhouse have already been filed. Citizens complain that they hear the farmanimals all day long and some complain that it has "that smell of death". The owner of the slaughterhouse, Dennis Roy, says that he was here way before they even finished the darn highway and that he should have the privilege to stay. He didn't ask for any neighbors to build there, he mentioned in a short briefing with the council.
Mayor Bartlett finds that this is a delicate matter and says that he and his council need more time to think about it and find a rightful solution to the problem and for everyone.

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It is quite understandable that their neighbors, which are less than 100 yards from the installation, feel kinda awkward to have a slaughterhouse in their neighborhood, but then again, why did they build here, when they knew about it before and had the choice of many other locations in the area?
If he needs to move, they better pay all the expenses, Roy says, including new installations and buildings.

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Just outside the fences of the army and on the other side of the river, is the horsefarm of the Moarsen Family. Here horses of all trades are being bred and sold worldwide. Some say that they own more than 600 horses. We of course remember them from Access, where Mrs Moarsen still owns a lot of terrain in the town itself. With her boys , they run a farming buissness of more than 7 individual farms and with almost 5,000 acres of land in the valley since access to the public was granted. Sometime soon we will have a closer look at all of them at the same time with more details of the family's history and expansions. Today the Moarsen Family is well known and respected and they have powerful local and political infuences with authorities.

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Another one who is quite active into farming is our soldier, Gregory Badger. Having his farm on the Sterling island, he cultivates veggies and small fruits there. We remember that he lately had opened a Vegetable and fruit stand on the island, which seems to be very profitable, because he just bought a chicken farm in West River with a small terrain in the back, filled with appletrees. By renting the house on this terrain to other people, Greg's payments for the whole farm does not become a heavy load on his shoulders. Now he has to hire another worker to take care of his chickens. Badger just formed a company with this, making sure that everything is covered by the company, just in case if he needs some professional financing. His Company name is "Badger Farms reg'd". His new girlfriend, the waitress from Barby's Biergarten, Jennifer Howitz, has quite agreed with the idea of the chicken farm. She likes farming also and can already be seen on saturday mornings on the island with her black rubber boots wandering through the fields in search of veggies that are ready to being harvested and to put on the market.

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Not far from the West River's armybase is the original village of West River, now called Valmore Station since a decade and again fully under the Access's administration. Here is the old place of the lost pilot, Robert Sweathers, which seems now being totally abandonned. Mr Sweathers is in a old people's home by now, getting fed and taken care of. Since his failing liver and other health problems, his physical weakness did not allow him to continue the vegetable gardening he used to do on his land beside his ownmade home. His children, which come regularily visiting him in Access, do not really take care of his property neither, therefore leaving it to an uncertain fate.

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Finally, I would like to mention that it seems like Guy Racsan has intentions to compete with T.S. Slye for rails. Having bought out a lot of land in between West River and Grasslake, he announced. The rails will be going through the airport area with a freight station in the industrial sector and end somewhere in Grasslake with another freight station, being able to deliver and ship goods to and from Grasslake. But why in the world did he choose Grasslake for, since Grasslake is a 98 % weekend home community with no industry and manufactures at all. Does he see something that we don't?. The connection is already done here in West River. As Racsan is not very open to the public with all his doings, nothing concrete has been found out yet. Mayor Bartlett said when asked about this matter, that Racsan can build a rail ten times around the town if he wants to, as long as he owns the land, and the rest of the municipality is not aware of his intentions neither.

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That's it for today, there is another update already in the making. We will visit the newly discovered waterfalls in Holland, talk about some of our characters and go back to the Access's new commercial Center, which is just about to be finished. See you all soon and thanks for the encouraging comments. If you like the storyline and the pics, say so, it will make me eager to bring you better and more. ;)

Remember, if you like any Nexis lots or BATs shown in any update and that are not available nowhere, just mentioned it and I will upload it to a host for you or send it by e-mail. I'll be back, and it won't be long. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on January 28, 2012, 10:40:59 PM
Great, long update!  ()stsfd()  ;D Was needed after a long break though!

The military base holds further secrets. Secret intentions, the plot thickens  ()what()

Regarding your LOTS and BATS, would love to have that slaughterhouse, and some of them log piles (all varieties) !!  ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on January 28, 2012, 11:42:44 PM
Expansive update Fred, and rich with plenty of developments. All I can say is about Guy Rascan is that he'd better look forward to some fun competition in the railroading industry. Slye may never have worked in the field before, but if he can get a sawmill running, a railroad should operate on (somewhat) similar principles.

As for the rest, good to see the Ganoga Boys are back, and to a very surprising welcome. It'll also be interesting to see the highway continue to develop. Most of all though, I'll be interested to hear what comes of the next investigation into the military base (now that the lumber deliveries are slowing it's harder to come by second hand information.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nbvc on January 29, 2012, 12:55:32 AM
Great work. I like the bridge construction. &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on January 29, 2012, 01:25:44 AM
Love it!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Framly on January 30, 2012, 04:33:48 PM
Great Story! I really like the construction site! The Slaughterhouse looks very realistic &apls

Weiter so! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: carlfatal on January 30, 2012, 07:35:00 PM
Sometimes it´s good to have to wait. This was a really huge update and aside from this army stuff very informative. When i saw the picture with the big farms (81.14) i thought about the past when all here was wilderness - now it´s mans land and only a few trees remained.
And good for the Ganoga Boys to have a friend they can trust. No wonder he´s a trainspotter...  ()stsfd()
Sad to hear the news about the old Bob Sweathers. I thought he would become a hundred years old Methuselah when i read the first things about him. And i appreciate the new plans Mike has: sounds good as i still don´t believe the story about Porolium and everything else they say. I´ll keep my fingers crossed!  :thumbsup:
And at least: if i would have the money like Mr. Rascan i would build railways everywhere. He must be a good guy! I for one will trust him.

Aside from that: cool pictures of the construction site, but also i like the first pic with the premier´s limo. And the overview is wonderful!  :)
Greetz, Carl
P.S.: i´ve used the function for spelling: Porolium don´t exist!  $%Grinno$%  ()stsfd()
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on January 30, 2012, 10:01:56 PM
Quote from: carlfatal on January 30, 2012, 07:35:00 PM
P.S.: i´ve used the function for spelling: Porolium don´t exist!  $%Grinno$%  ()stsfd()


Of course it exists, Carl.
Here is what I found in the Dictionary of the Access Library in the Townhall.

** POROLIUM** , also known as "Messivial Gas", quite poisonous and deadly when inhaled for a period of time.
Porolium gas or PM-23 (Scientific Molecular Formula: C6P11n4O2Y)  is a toxic chemical substance. It is an almost clear, greenish, and tasteless liquid with a faint onion like odor. It is classified as a nerve agent because it fatally interferes with normal functioning of the mammalian nervous system.
Fires involving this chemical may result in the formation of hydrogen cyanide, which is clearly deadly to any lifeform as known.
Porolium was first discovered by Jacob Masserhand (Dutch Immigrant) in 1724 in the mountainous area between Halo and Roy in Simland.
http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/2665/largesimlandmap.png
Only very small harmless quantities were found at the time. After a certain amount of deaths, it became illegal to exploit these gases in 1887 by Federal Law.
It is not used for anything yet.
Porolium can only be found in Simland.

You see? I got some proof here that it exists! ;)


Hey thanks folks for all the comments. I am glad that still after a long wait like this, the journal has not been forgotten.
I am quite busy sometimes irl and it seems to come in waves. I never know when it hits.

lak47, I attached a link at the end of this post with the lotfile for the slaughterhouse. Anyone may use it, if they can . Since I play with a lot of props and textures (believe me.....many!), it might contain a few props that you do not have (for you to find out). I have no idea how to know the dependencies of this lot.
Please do not redistribute and mention "Nexis" and/or my name when asked for. You may post a link to this page and post. Thanks for the respect.

threestooges, I think that Slye will make it again, but what exactly Racsan is up to, I have no idea yet, no one actually seems to know, maybe just a short lane to move his products around?
The continuing of the highway construction will surely be shown again here, as soon as it hits the area of the Brokentree, only a few miles north.
Thanks for the comment.

nbvc, glad that you like the construction site and I am also glad you commented. ;)

Will12, glad you dropped in again.

Framly, glad to see you here.... ja, ich mach's weiter!

carlfatal, nice comment, proves that you follow the story quite intensively. Yeah, the forests are slowly disappearing, but that is the sixties, every one needs to take what is available and get rich with it. Resources are taken as they are available. The famrs did not reach the mountainous lands yet, it seems.
Sweathers is not feeling too well, ever when they found him, his health went downhill, maybe they should have driven the highway on the other side of the river and never found him, maybe it would have been better for him, who knows? Thanks for dropping in again.

Thanks again folks. I should be back in a few days, at latest the coming weekend. Update 82 is already written , but again I have to take the pictures now. ;)

Fred


Oupsss, forgot to include the link for the slaughterhouse. I will see if I can find the logpiles also, somehow forgot how I named them..... &mmm

slaughterhouse......at your own risk. Not exactly sure, but it should be in the Park or LM menu.

http://www66.zippyshare.com/v/62626428/file.html
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on January 31, 2012, 09:07:30 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on January 30, 2012, 10:01:56 PM

Oupsss, forgot to include the link for the slaughterhouse. I will see if I can find the logpiles also, somehow forgot how I named them..... &mmm

slaughterhouse......at your own risk. Not exactly sure, but it should be in the Park or LM menu.

http://www66.zippyshare.com/v/62626428/file.html

Thanks Fred, much appreciated! I love your work, useful, and good looking at the same time. I now, am going to gather most of your work from STEX. Time for some serious downloading  ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: dedgren on February 02, 2012, 07:21:34 PM
Fred, a fine update.  The WRP is only the latest production in your long history of being one of the most all-around talented members of the community.  A well-deserved K-point, if for no other  reason, than on general principles.

Looking forward to you being here more often.


David
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rooker1 on February 02, 2012, 07:47:34 PM
Hmmm seems you have been choosen for " The SC4 Devotion Mystery Link to ()what() ".  (Have a look at the news ticker ;) ) 
It's always a pleasure to stop by your MD to see what you are up to....stories, BATting, LOTting and great pics, it's all here.

Robin &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 03, 2012, 03:50:28 AM
Very nice! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rambuckel on February 03, 2012, 04:38:09 AM
I guess it's time for me to leave a comment ...

Dear Fred,

I cannot yet write whith reference to the actual postings as I'm still on page ~ 40 of this beautiful story. I want to thank you for this great story. I often take it as bedtime reading. But it takes quite long to go through all of the story because there's so many little details which deserve attention. I really adore how you keep and develop this beautiful storyline. How you develop things out of each other and how you place your characters in the story!

This MD surely is  crime thriller, detective story, reportage, lovestory, adventure and documentation all in one ... And it is a sort of SC4 - Chronicle as it leads through periods of developement in SC4.

As a Fan of your MD
Theresa

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on February 03, 2012, 02:33:10 PM
looks good Fred, and I do have good intentions for the Grasslake area.  $%Grinno$%

If you want I can come public :P
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Yan077 on February 13, 2012, 11:53:24 PM
I missed update 81 and what a mistake so it's also time for me to leave a comment...

Huge and perfect update, the storyline, the construction site, the bridge... amazing !  &apls

Keep up the good work  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 14, 2012, 09:46:44 AM
Hey guys, thank you sooo much for all those nice and encouraging comments.
I am sorry if I cannot make more updates at the moment, but I am soo darn busy at this moment that I have hardly time to open my computer and visit my SC4 sites everyday.
Right now I am having more or less some enrgy taking issues in real life. One of my jobs (loghome) in New England (easternUS) has gone sour with environmental issues that were not respected by the hired construction company. Now I will have to get us out of this without too many $ losses. It won't be easy at all since US authorities are the worst one can confront, believe me when I say this because I have built loghomes in more than 20 countries around the world.
Then another job in Nevada is about to be abandonned since the owner cannot handle the costs of the construction and is about to declare bankrupt, like so many in the US. I about to think to buy the whole project, finsih it and put it on the market up for sale, but....investing almost 3 quarter of a million into this in the US is kinda of dangerous at the moment. But loosing a job that has already cost me 200K $ ain't better.....lol. That's another thing that keeps me busy.
To all that come smaller issues (not really problems) with family, job, the farm (it is calving time where over 100 calves are born within 1 month) etc, making it impossible for me to take care of my favourite things (SC4).
I guess you understand, pretty sure that you all do. ;)

I will be back soon. For the next update, the sory is already written since almost a month and only pictures have to be taken, putting it all together and uploading will take a few moments also.

lak47, did the slaughterhouse work for you?

degren, thanks for dropping in, may I ask what a K point is?

rooker1, thanks also to be here again, glad to see you often.

KovLiberty, nice to see you again.

rambuckel, that is nice to have you commented on my MD, very nice and thanks for the kind words. Come again and have fun reading the rest of the story. ;)

NASCAR_Guy, I suppose Racsan is about to come public and explain some of intentions before rumours will become all twisted.... ;) Check the next update.

Yan077, glad to see you here and thank you for the nice comment. Glad that you enjoy the story and the developments of the Winding River Region. Hope to see you soon again.

So, give  me a few days, or maybe a week or so to get some of my things irl solved, and I will be back with a worthwhile update of the waterfalls they discovered in that small village of Holland (a complete visit) and some news from downtown Access. ;)

Have a nice week.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on February 14, 2012, 08:19:49 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on February 14, 2012, 09:46:44 AM

lak47, did the slaughterhouse work for you?

Fred

Hey sorry Fred, I forgot to mention. It did work, thanks a lot!  ()stsfd() W're waiting for updates  ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 18, 2012, 08:31:00 PM
Sorry for being kinda slow these days, but I have a lot of things irl, other than Simcity, on my mind at the moment. Hope you will pardon me, since I promiss to make up, once this is over, which shouldn't take long.



Update 82

That Same Day...........Saturday, June 17th, 1967




While all the others were still busy greeting the Ganoga Boys, John Gabber took his car and entered the sandy road that he has ordered to begin building three weeks ago through the Dark Forest, over the eastern mountains and towards the coast. He wants to see how far they have come within the three weeks. It took him some 30 minutes of slow driving over the rough sandy pavement to reach the end of the new to be road. First he passed the turnoff to the Ganoga lake, only a few miles downhill. His workers already started to clear the land for the road and a bulldozer and a truck have already arrived to start the road downhill to get the gravel needed for the rest of the road. John thought about the situation and is quite satisfied with the work that they have done sofar. He didn't expect that much to be done already.
The sandy road will soon be graveled, meaning a good coat of re-sized gravel will cover the sandy surface of the road and in a year or so asphalt will cover the entire length.

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We remember that this road is a federal contract that was ordered a few months back, no.....it is not the contract that the Gabber Inc got last week for the access road to the oil fields they are planning, but the road that will go straight partially through the Ganoga Wilderness and just passing a few hundred of meters by the mysterious Dark Forest that we talked about in a prior update, to the coast and to the Radler Outlet Point (where Winding River meets the sea), and also called "Wimmer Bay". The contact with this small town will bring the fisheries of the Wimmerbay communities closer to Access and then accelerate the routes between Lakefield and Halo. 
The Dark Forest, as most of the citizens of Simland know by now, is off limits to airtraffic since several decennies because of very turbulent and mysterious windfalls and magnetic disturbences it produces, or at least....that what the Government knows about it. That also we have talked about in an earlier update. The actual road to Wimmer Bay will pass only a few hundred of feet by the beginning of the Dark Forest's hills, which contain the biggest and densest forests in the valley of the Winding River and on the whole eastcoast. Of course we could have figured out by ourselves that this road will be of great interest to T.S.Slye, who is always looking for a mature forest to be harvested, and he already he already got into contact with the authorities of this region in hope to gain a permit or something.

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At the very end John stopped and took a small walk looking at the divers flora. As a vivid hunter and angler since childhood, John Gabber knows a lot about the fauna and flora. He realizes that it looks a little different. Grasses grow denser and look greener, some trees are enormous and some look very old and some plants he never saw. This must be a virgin area for sure he thought and he stepped right into the forest for a little walk. He thought about that it is amazing that he is probably the first Sim to walk these grounds, when he entered the dense growing forest that did not give him a chance to go much further. Then he thought about his son Charlie and his pictures (film negatives) that he has in the car and kinda got anxious to see the pictures now, seeing now the condensed and packed in flora of the beginning of the Ganoga Wilderness, wondering how difficult it must have been for the boys the last 14 days.

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Elsewhere in Access, well more in Valmore on the sides of Highway 35 at a hotel, Gregory Badger, the soldier that started growing veggies on Sterling island, met with Nethaniel Wellington and his advisers and notary for a big deal and contract. Wellington will soon be opening another big grocery in Access near the shoppingcenters and a new one in Phlox, which is slowly growing outwards also and needs a store to handle bigger services. The deal will hard to meet it seems and a lot of fresh vegetables and fruits will be needed by the Wellington Group. Badger, as we remember, only lately bought a farm and some land in Valmore and opening a vegetable stand on the island near Phlox and this deal just comes right in time. This is his first regular deal with another company and he only dreams of making the ends meet and be able to supply Wellington with veggies and fruits during the summer and fall months.

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Another deal was agreed upon in Valmore at the new Golfclub. A deal between Guy Racsan and the municipalities of Access and Grasslake. Racsan finally got public and announced his intentions of his new rails towards Grasslake. Since the family owns most of the land in Grasslake, Guy wants to connect a rail between West River's main rail-line and Grasslake, where his new manufaturings will be for his car company. Racsan Motors will soon be enlarged and move to Grasslake. The project has been planned since 4 years and the rails will make it easier to transport the materials needed for the manufacturer since the rails go right through the airport also, making it possible for the 3 points to be connected. Mainrails to the airport and to the manufacture.
This short strip of the rails will be called the Racsan Line. Maybe one day, it might even continue further south down to Sandom.

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While we are here in this area of the new commercial center of Access in Valmore, we might as well have a look at the lately finished Meinhauser Residential Building on the sides of the golfcourse, one of the biggest yet in the valley. The whole commercial area is now completed and looking very modern and organized. Mayor Bartlett and his counselors are very proud of their planning.

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Just on the side of the highway away from the new residential area, they build two identical office buildings of modern looks to hold the so many asked for office spaces. For some it is strange driving in a citylike environment and all of sudden hitting a gravel road into the residentials, but everything is going so fast that many projects fails to follow the advancement of other projects. A lot of minor "fixes" have yet to be made, as Mayor Bartlett sometimes calls these situations.

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Another important issue on the mayor's desk are the burnt houses that were razed to the ground 5 years ago and are still left as they were on that day. It is the town that bought the land for futur uses, for such as a fire department, but sofar the fire department in downtwon has been taken care of most of the town and today, with the help from Grasslake and Phlox's departments, an extension to the existing station is not really needed anymore.
People around the area have been complaining about the safety conditions on these lots and more and more children have made this their regular playground.
Since the Premier Minister of Simland has planned to visit the town next year and have a full tour of the valley, the counselors and the mayor have finally decided to do something about this. A demolition and cleanup order was brought in today and on next Monday the work will begin. This will become the second official Parklot in Access, creating a very green spot with a playground for youngsters to enjoy.

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And finally here is a full picture of the "new" commercial townpart of Access Center with the highway 35 going right through it. Mayor Bartlett and his counselors can be proud of their achievement. The town of Access Center is now another chosen place in Simland to absolutely visit.

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Oh, there's one more thing that has to be taken care of by the town's office. Because of the quick developments all around the town, some places do not have the garbage services as supposed to and some places are chosen by the public to just dump their stuff somewhere and here at the other end of the lake in valmore, a small fire started in such a location, but was quickly controlled by the fire services.
This area around the lake is being drained and build on, residential lots have been sold for little money lately. The trees are dead because of the constant moisture in the ground, but lot by lot, a draining system is installed and the whole area will soon be totally dried out, giving Access' suburbs more land to expand.
A little forgotten or accidental fire could be horribly dangerous in this part of the forests which are totally made out of dead and dried trees and brush. The fire would travel at a spoeed beyond of controlling along the lake , and could cause an enormous desaster in certain residential areas.

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So this is it again, not much of an update but with the little free time that I have at the moment it will have to do. I will make a small one (update) later this week or by the next weekend, before we go back to introduce another region of Simland, and after that I hopefully will have resolved most of my "things" and we will be back with the regular updates of Your characters in this story. Please suggest a region to visit on the Simland Map on the link below.


Sofar we have visited Bluebay and Snake River Bay, if I remember right. ;) So please choose another one.
Thanks.

Fred


Please choose a region to visit the next time:

http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/2665/largesimlandmap.png

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on February 18, 2012, 08:46:37 PM
That commercial area looks great. Lovely golf-course, and as usual, great detailing on all the forest areas.

I suggest we visit any of the islands along the east. Three Islands maybe?  ()what() Would love to see what's in store over there. They look pristine and would make a great tourist spot  ()stsfd()
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 19, 2012, 05:31:04 AM
Some of those shots just blow me away with the detail Fred, love you area. How long did it take you to fully flora the forests, etc?

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Ricky112233 on February 20, 2012, 12:44:39 AM
Sorry for my very long delay in posting here, but I've been super busy and I didn't have much time reading the entire story...

Anyways, the past few updates have been great!

Can't wait to see update 83! :thumbsup:

Could you please tell me what car/traffic mod you're using and where you got those two "Townhomes" nest to each other in picture 82.08? $%Grinno$%

-Ricky
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 20, 2012, 02:05:13 PM
KoV Liberty, glad you liked the flora piucture. Actually that didn't take too long to "paint". I would say no more than 20 minutes going through my MMP's.

lak47, sorry, the "Three Islands" are not a region yet, they still have to be created. Only the ones in a white square are ready regions on that picture, the rest is just to give you an idea of the connectivity between the regions in my Simland. ;) So, choose another one please.


Quote from: Ricky112233 on February 20, 2012, 12:44:39 AM
Could you please tell me what car/traffic mod you're using and where you got those two "Townhomes" nest to each other in picture 82.08? $%Grinno$%

-Ricky

Hey Ricky,

I hope that you know by now that I have over 14 GB's of Plugins abd finding something is quite a challenge, so don't expect this to be a perfect answer. I will have to find out by querrying these homes the next time I will enter that city, that shouldn't be too long, maybe by the weekend. I will then let you know here.
I also have included a picture of my "automata" (traffic and car mod)folder.....lol....Discouraged now?.....lol... I probably have every automata available on the net. You choose. ;)

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Good luck

....be back soon with that small update that I promissed for this week.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Grneyes on February 20, 2012, 08:10:16 PM
14GB of plugins? How do you keep them organized? How fast does the game run for you?
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on February 21, 2012, 03:54:07 AM
Chadelaine Island then, I suggest &Thk/(

On another note, if ever there was a drought in SC4 plugins to mankind, I know whose computer to raid  ;D 14GB!!?!  ??? :o
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Ricky112233 on February 21, 2012, 03:57:09 AM
Ok, and yes I've heard about the number of GB's your plugin folder is! :P
Anyway, Thank you so very much in advance! :thumbsup:

-Ricky
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 21, 2012, 10:06:09 AM
Quote from: mrbisonm on February 20, 2012, 02:05:13 PM
KoV Liberty, glad you liked the flora piucture. Actually that didn't take too long to "paint". I would say no more than 20 minutes going through my MMP's.

Oh, no, I meant the whole region. Sorry for not being clearer on that.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 21, 2012, 10:13:42 AM
Quote from: Ricky112233 on February 20, 2012, 12:44:39 AM
where you got those two "Townhomes" nest to each other in picture 82.08? $%Grinno$%

-Ricky

I finally found out which they are. They are called "Milwaukee Appartments" and can be found on ST. There are two different sets, one with Maxis Nite and the other with True Nite (or something like this). Each contain 5 different colours, growable of course.

For the true nite you will have to make a search. Here is the linkie for the Maxis Nite:

http://www.simtropolis.com/forum/files/file/23702-milwaukee-apartments/

Quote from: Grneyes on February 20, 2012, 08:10:16 PM
14GB of plugins? How do you keep them organized? How fast does the game run for you?

The game actually plays quite good and isn't too slow in bigger cities on Medium tiles. I never, or hardly ever play on large tiles.
The organization is done very simple. I have several subfolders with either dates of downloads (like Jan2Jul2012) meaning everything I downloaded from January to July in 2012, or with different kinds of buildings, such as : Farms, Skyliners, Airport, Harbour, Special, etc...which are probably selfexplanetory, or plugins for different citytiles. Example: Whenever I enter a city with "specific" buildings such as an airport, then I just include the airport folder in the Plugins.

I only play with 7 Gb's in the Plugins at a time and I try to keep it at this max or less all the time. This way only a few lags happen in bigger cities during rushhour. I always play with all the details on btw.
My whole is 14.7 Gb's big, which my machine cannot handle in a big city all at once.

Quote from: lak47 on February 21, 2012, 03:54:07 AM
Chadelaine Island then, I suggest &Thk/(

On another note, if ever there was a drought in SC4 plugins to mankind, I know whose computer to raid  ;D 14GB!!?!  ??? :o


Ok, 1 Point for Chadelaine Island......big Island.

About raiding my computer......lol....if you got problems to find something, it is possible that I have it, either on my computer or on one of my 15 or so CD's with all kinds of stuff since 2003. ;) (now you know where to go)

Still asking which region should we visit the next time?

Quote from: KoV Liberty on February 21, 2012, 10:06:09 AM
Oh, no, I meant the whole region. Sorry for not being clearer on that.

Region???? Hm........I think that took me a few weeks (3 to 4 weeks, being at least 2 hrs/day on it)....lol....just before starting the MD.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Ricky112233 on February 21, 2012, 10:38:49 AM
Yay! Awesome! Thanks so much! Maybe I'll have to ask one of the mods to +1 you! $%Grinno$%

-Ricky
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on February 22, 2012, 12:40:39 AM
Sorry for replying rarely for a page or two! Great updates and i vote to focus on Lakefield.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: carlfatal on February 22, 2012, 02:14:28 AM
Hi Fred,
seems Mr John Gabber will become the first nature saver in Simland after his excursion in the woods.
When he will look the pictures his son shot in the wilderness, he will have no chance, or?  ;)
Next thing: i wish good luck to Mr Badger serving regional products to the folks living there. I think, this is a very good idea to make a contract with Mr Wellington.

But when i hear You only needed twenty minutes for plopping all the MMPs - wow, that´s fast as the pictures look so real to me. I always need hours for that and never reached this quality. Okay, You´re playing this game from beginning on, but...  &apls &apls &apls

Away from that: it´s a good idea to demolish the remains of the burned houses now as i think some kids could have an accident there while playing. So the decision to build a little park and playground here is perfect. Mr Bartlett does his job very well, as i think it´s not all times easy for him with all the fast growing around here.

And then: RL is much more important than SC4 although i sometimes wish it would not be. I can wait as i love to look back in Your MD from time to time, not to forget what happened here and there in Simland. And as i play some other games too, it´s always hard to follow every MD here i like.  ;) If i would write a comment every time it would be worth to do so, i would only comment and never play or work...  :D

Greetz, Carl
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 24, 2012, 07:09:25 AM
Thank You for dropping in Carl, your comments are always welcomed. I can really see that you indeed enjoy the story and the pictures. ;)

Well, as promissed, here is the small update before we go back visiting another region. I still need some suggestion where to go to. Sofar someone mentioned the Chadelaine Island up north and another one Lakefield. So, what do you want to visit the next time? Last chance.



Update 83

"Waterfalls, a Little Paradise?"

Again, That Same Day...........Saturday, June 17th, 1967


First let's have a look at the two road constuction contract that Gabber Inc signed lately. First there is the road to the coast, to Wimmerbay to be precise. On the partial Simland Map we can see the entire road project, starting on highway 35 at the Ganoga Outlet and ending at the ferry point of Wimmerbay. The road will take no more than two years to build and will make a shorter connection between Access and Radley, a small harbour town on the Atlantic coast. Since Highway 35 is connected to Highway 15 already, the one that leads east to Lakefield and Roy, the connection to the coast will be a lot shorter for those two bigger cities also, probably helping out other neglected regions to get more developped in the future.

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With some more details, here are both projects in the Winding River Region. The Wimmerbay Road (in yellow) will start directly on highway 35, just after the Big Ganoga Island. It will follow the banks of the Ganoga Lake for awhile and then turn sharply to the east crossing the Venus Wetlands and then the Lowbanks River. From there it will go directly to the borders of the Dark Forest,(the one that is forbidden for airtraffic because of mysterious magnetic fields that disturb greatly the electric and electronic devices on the planes), make another sharp turn, go up the hills and leave the Winding River Region at the Gibson Lake.
It will be a simple asphalted two-lane road. The cost is some 16 Million §§'s and as said before, it will be ready by the end of 1969 before the new decade of the seventies.

Then, the second contract signed only a few days back is the "Oilroad" as they have named it already. (here shown in lightblueish green)
That is a much shorter road, but will take a full two years to be build because of the immense wet forests that make it difficult to advance quickly. A lot of gravel will be needed for this and Mr Sterling (the Millionaire that owns most of the Stoke Mountains just west of the oilfields), has offered to supply a gravelpit that would just be ideal for the gravel needed and isn't too far form the oilfield's roads. This is shown in blue below.
Our bushpilot Steve Gibson has been busy in the last years to fly researchers, geologists and other scientist to this area and we remember that oil , coal and copper was found in this area. With the latest announcement of the gouvernment we found out that soon the oilfields will become a reality and supply the area with a lot of jobs and excellent incomes. A coal industry will come later to this area. Plans are already in the developping.

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Now, let's go back on the westside of the big river, up the hills and towards the newly discovered small village of Holland. We went there a couple of updates ago, just to have a quick look around. Today we visit the place more intensively.
The village is small, most likely the smallest in the region. Holland was founded in 1959, when the first sheepfarmers arrived. The population is less than 250 today in 1967 and only until a few weeks back, this village had a well kept secret, the beautiful and untouched waterfalls nearby. The Holland Falls, as they call it, are on a private property of a farm that is situated at the beginning of the village. On the picture it is the one with the two ponds near the barns. The Greel family owns most lands around the village, including the falls and a good part of the mountain. They raise sheep and not in small quantities it seems.

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In the Center of the village stands its pride, the church of Holland, built only a few years back with the financial help of the Lakefield Cathedral. There used to be a little pond here where ducks came feeding every day. The town hasn't grown much since it was founded, actually it has stayed the same for the last 5 years simply because it is far from everything and on a badly shaped and maintained sandy road. Even Dairyfarmers did not settle here, although the fields are quite fertile around the area.

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Roads are quiet in the village and it seems that only on sundays mornings there is some activity, when the churchbells call for their children. There is no school, but kids are driven to Phlox every morning, which take a good 75 minutes to reach with normal weather conditions

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To get to the falls, you need to take the road beside the church and the colourful tent of the "Young Explorer's Club" , go down all the way until the road melts into a field. From there you can see the falls and most of all, hear them as they loudly splash into the big pond.
On sundays, when the weather is warm in the summer, one can see a few cars and campers here that the farmer allows in exchange for a small token to use his land. Surprisingly it is people from far away, such as citizens from Milts, Gasen Mills and Roy. It was kept secret by those who knew it for the reason to enjoy it only for themselves, but lately a small group of mountain climbers have come upon this spot while looking for a quick way to climb Mount Totem, which is just behind the falls and where the water comes from.

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Just a few hundred yards downstream the little creek, lives a fellow in a camper since 4 years, he is the guardian that takes care of the area for the farmer and watches that the visitors do not leave anything behind that could hurt the surroundings.

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The pond below the falls is clear, so clear that some folks even drink from it. Filled with mountaintrouts, it seems to have attracked some sportanglers, which try to catch the one of their lifetime trophies in these rapids below the falls.

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Here's a full view of the village, the mountain and the falls. The Pearson Brook, as it is called, comes down from the western side of Mount Totem and is the result of the melting ice and snow up there. As it comes down on the midway it formed a pool, known in the village as the Devil's Hole, as it has strangely taken the lives of three young kids in 1959. Then the creek divides into two, one with waterfalls and the other with simple rapids. Both branches end up flowing into the Big Pond, from where the creek slowly continues to run downhill and adds to the Dorden River that enters the Winding River just on the corner of Slye's sawmill in Phlox.

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Known as the Devil's hole, the first bassin of the icy creek warms up its water here. The wilderness that surrounds the pond is absolutely untouched and also very much unknown. It was very difficult for the rescue team to reach this site to recover the three bodies of those kids that drowned here in the late fifties. Still today, only a handful of people have seen this spot and not many adventure themselves to the area.

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Here's a picture of the creek coming in from the heights to later form the first pond.

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This picture below is in between the first and the second falls, where sometimes fishermen throw in their line, just above the falls. This little pond, simply called the second Pond by the villagers, has a very deep spot just below its first falls, which many say that it contains very big and old trouts of the size that are not imaginable. Well, strange though that no one ever caught one single trout in this spot and for others it seems that it is impossible for the fish come this far upstream. But still, some anglers will make the 45 minute climb up here only to come and plunge their fishing rod.

83.13
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And here is a final look at the area of the waterfalls. Still somewhat unknown to the population, Holland is unfortunetly about to change it's face, unless..........but I think it is too late for that.

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That's it for the "small", and finally not so small update. The next time we will visit another region again. Sofar you voted 1 for Chadelaine Island and 1 for Lakefield, the Capitol City. Let's hear some more votes please. Thanks.


mrb
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 24, 2012, 10:11:24 AM
Wow, that's a long time. One of the many reasons I chose a desert environment, not much in terms of flora and, well, not much people have a desert MD. Atrubia, from what I have seen, is probably one of the longest running out there. Although I have switched to green, I'm going back to sand ASAP. Can't wait for the next update and keep up the good work man! :thumbsup:

Alex
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Silur on February 24, 2012, 10:55:58 AM
Fishers near tremendous waterfall ... Excellent  :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on February 24, 2012, 11:32:52 PM
That last line there reminded me a bit of The Lorax. Slye's mill isn't moving up there, is it? Also, when will we be getting the next word on the military base? Inquiring minds want to know, and all that.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 25, 2012, 10:36:39 AM
Quote from: KoV Liberty on February 24, 2012, 10:11:24 AM
Wow, that's a long time. One of the many reasons I chose a desert environment, not much in terms of flora and, well, not much people have a desert MD. Atrubia, from what I have seen, is probably one of the longest running out there. Although I have switched to green, I'm going back to sand ASAP. Can't wait for the next update and keep up the good work man! :thumbsup:

Alex

I once started playing with a desertmod, but soon realized that it didn't come out well, probably because I do not live near a desert at all and my knowledge for it is somehow limited. Btw, a desert can be beautiful, I once saw it in Australia, it was all flowering. Wow!

Silur, glad you like the anglers.... ;)

Quote from: threestooges on February 24, 2012, 11:32:52 PM
That last line there reminded me a bit of The Lorax. Slye's mill isn't moving up there, is it? Also, when will we be getting the next word on the military base? Inquiring minds want to know, and all that.
-Matt

No Slye's sawmill will stay where it is since it is about to have direct access to a privately owned railroad. About the army,.....hm, some folks said last week that they saw strange lights around the base very late at night and a new rumour tells us that the army has taken more land around the base into possession. They even relocated some farmers, which probably had very high costs.
Thanks for commenting ;) and have a nice weekend.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on February 28, 2012, 10:46:44 PM
Fred that is a lovely area there. So well detailed and laid out. Makes me want to take a refreshing dip  ()stsfd() The pond and falls look beautiful.

Great update, enjoyed it.

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rambuckel on March 08, 2012, 12:49:53 PM
Fred,

thank you for this great story so far. I finally made my way all through it till Page 74. It's still one of my favourite bedtime lectures :)

I'm curious what will happen next!

- Theresa
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on March 08, 2012, 01:12:56 PM
I always enjoy looking at your rural pictures. I like the sheep farm with the two ponds.

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Gringamuyloca on March 16, 2012, 12:55:27 PM
 ()stsfd()
aaahhhh... I needed that.  :satisfied:
RL has kept me out of the loop for a bit, what a pleasure to have 3 updates to peruse and enjoy.  ;D

Sorry to learn RL has been kicking back, (selfishly) I'm happy to see it hasn't taken away your knack for detailing the game or affected your story telling.  &apls

It was good to catch up on the goings on in and around Winding River; sounds like there's no stopping 'progress'. Maybe it's time to start a commune on Chadelaine Island?  ::) I'd gladly give up the smell of burnt diesel for the opportunity to "Turn On, Tune In and Drop Out!" (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turn_on,_tune_in,_drop_out)  $%Grinno$%

Cheers!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on March 17, 2012, 12:13:28 AM
Nice!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: nbvc on March 17, 2012, 02:22:32 AM
Nice landscapes you have created. &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Terring7 on March 17, 2012, 02:30:04 AM
Wow, great &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on March 17, 2012, 10:58:30 AM
Thanks for all those comments, I was starting to wonder where you all went to. ;)
Sorry, I am totally occupied irl at the moment and also trying to finish my Bat project of the Modern farms first, but I will go on with the story soon, give me another week or so and I will have a full update with pictures of the story. I write a little almost every evening. Meanwhile, here is a "preview" of the story coming up later.....Have fun.


UPDATE 85 A

"Ten Rocks"

Three knocks on the door draws John Gabber's attention in the early hours in his small office in Access Center.

<<" Come in", he says, dropping his pen on the desk to see who the intruder is.
"Hello Mr Gabber," says the responsable foreman of the Wimmerroad project, Al Baumer ", Could I have a few minutes of your time. Sir?"
"Of course, c'mon in and close the door", John answers. "Please sit down.  What can I do for you, Al?", leaning back into his office chair, interlocking his hands on his belly and looking directly at Al, who he knows is the best man for this job for the road to the coast.
"Well, Mr Gabber, we got a slight problem over in the Gibson County," Baumer says with a slightly worrying voice," I think we even have to detour the whole road somehow, because the plan for the road does not work out there anymore."
" What do you mean by derouting the road, what the heck can be that collossal to have me change the plan?" John interupted shortly, changing position on his chair to straight.
"Well Sir, there are some rocks in the way, or something.....ehem, and they are quite big and cannot be tossed aside by our machinery." Al ended his phrase looking at John to see his reaction. There's a pause, that made both speakers a little nervous and put them in a position of being uncomfortable. John took more time to fully understand what Baumer just said and he thought, what the heck can be that big to disturb so much to reroute the plans? Then he thinks he's got the solution, although it's very evident.
"Why don't you just blow them out the way.? John suggested." Go see Manny, he's got the keys for the explosives."
"Well Sir............, that seems not to be logical, because these rocks are very big, and I mean very, very big and besides.....well.....ehem.........they are in a formation of 2 by 5, perfectly aligned." Al explained and caused another long moment of total silence in John's office.
John's brain just went into fast drive for a few seconds, not quite fully understanding Baumer's problem and wondering what the heck he could probably be talking about.............>>>


See ya and thanks for leaving a comment.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on March 20, 2012, 12:49:31 AM
Liking it...
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on March 20, 2012, 09:55:03 AM
Very nice. Looking forward to the rest of it!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: ricardomiranda on March 22, 2012, 01:23:44 PM
Nice job ! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on March 28, 2012, 01:27:59 PM
Looking good.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 02, 2012, 08:31:17 PM
This is the second part of Update 85 above, please read the first part once again to get back into the story before continuing with this one. Have fun.

Part 3 will come soon, this time with pictures.



UPDATE 85 B

"Ten Rocks"



John pulled himself up from his straight position in his offics chair leaning forward and reached out for his pack of cigarettes. He then slowly pulled one out of the package without ever leaving his eyes from Baumer, and then lighted it.
He offered one to Al, but Baumer does not smoke. After one long puff of that smoothing thick smoke, John asks in a voice that seemed to be too calm for the situation: " Ok now, explain that please. I mean what can possibly be a perfectly ligned up rock formation, a wall?. I don't understand what you're trying to tell me, Al." Taking another puff of his cigarette and waiting anxiously for a senseful and logical and understandable answer from Baumer.
"Sir, these rocks are all identical, at least 30 to 35 feet high, weighing approximately 55 to 70 tons each and are in two parallel lines of five rocks set partially into the ground, maybe something like .......35 or 40 feet appart from each other. The row is about 80 yards long on each side. I've never seen something like this before, and no one of the workers neither." Another smaller period of silence filled the room, but when no comment from John came, Al continued, "It looks like that it was done by some people, maybe another find of the aborigines, but if so, how did they bring them there? I seriously wonder how they did that. They're so freaking big!"
John couldn't help and it was stronger than himself: " Are you joking me this morning or what?", looking with one of his serious look onto Bauer and lifting his left eyebrow with concern.
"No Sir, you know I wouldn't do that. I am serious, couldn't be more serious about this and that is why I came for advice, because honestly, we are simply stuck there, in front of these....gigantic boulders. The Loggers disengaged the area around some of the rocks a little before I stopped them and they couldn't have been seen from the air because of the big tree growth that is covering everything out there. It's a jungle like forest."
John put out his cigarette, not even half smoked out. Al continued, " Could you come and have a look at this and tell us what to do, Sir?"
"Did you talk about this to Mike yet?" John asks. "He is the Projectchief."
"No Sir, we haven't seen Mike this morning and we can't go on without knowing what to do."
"Ok, ok..let me think", and only after a partial minute John got up to get his dirty and worn out brown leathercoat from the last war and his hardhat, "I will take my car and follow you. I have another contract to see this afternoon, so let's make it quick."
"Ok, Sir" were the last words they exchanged in the office and both were heading to their cars. >>

Thanks for the comments

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on April 02, 2012, 09:35:54 PM
And so the plot thickens. Looking forward to seeing where the story goes from here.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: packersfan on April 03, 2012, 04:23:47 AM
Just read about your plugin strategy.  I suppose use a technique like city specific plugin folders, so the game doesn't always have to load seaport and airport stuff, etc...Alas, I will have to strategize on a plugin method as I explore the new Sim City next year....BTW interesting region, so much!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on April 03, 2012, 04:44:33 PM
The plot thickens indeed.

EDIT: Welcome to page 75. 3/4 of the way to 100!!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 03, 2012, 08:42:40 PM
***sigh***

....only 75 pages....and I hoped to reach a thousand by the beginning of summer. Ok, let's post, we still have a chance.... ;)


Fred


PS:... just kidding.


EDIT:  btw, what you have been reading lately is parts of Update 85, maybe some of you realized it that 84 is missing. The thing is that Update 85 is in 3 parts and it was written sometime ago. I am showing it now because I don't have the time to finish Update 84 at the moment, which is the visit of the *Chadelaine Island* region. Hope that it doesn't matter too much.
As soon as I have finished my MFP1 (Modern Farm Props) 3d models, which is holding me from making regular updates, I will continue with the Chadelaine Island and then back to "normal".
I have already Updates up to 89 written, only need pictures to finish them. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Lockey on April 04, 2012, 06:02:12 AM
 &apls &apls &apls &apls &apls

I love it! right from the very beginning! Took close to two hours to read, but it was worth it. I like the idea of the oilfield, if you make bats on oil rigs I would love to get them. lol

Great Job Fred.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 04, 2012, 07:52:43 AM
Quote from: Lockey on April 04, 2012, 06:02:12 AM
&apls &apls &apls &apls &apls

I love it! right from the very beginning! Took close to two hours to read, but it was worth it. I like the idea of the oilfield, if you make bats on oil rigs I would love to get them. lol

Great Job Fred.

Glad you like it and welcome to WRP. Another poster is welcome.
Of course, I will be making some custom rigs for the oilfield planned in the region and all you have to do is ask, when you see something you like.
I don't know when though, because right now I am still working on the MFP1 set (Modern Farm Props)....

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg7.imageshack.us%2Fimg7%2F3311%2Fmfp141.jpg&hash=c6ccce4f0f90d728d58f8c6a8bea50b957292391)

...and after that, the region will get its first gaz energy plant, which I haven't finished nor textured yet....

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...but when the times comes, the rigs will rise in the Stoke Mountain area. Just keep an eye on this. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on April 04, 2012, 02:50:30 PM
Gaz Energy? Sounds exciting!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on April 04, 2012, 08:27:53 PM
Those stacks look amazing. Keep it up Fred! :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 05, 2012, 01:27:57 PM
UPDATE 85 C

"Ten Rocks"



After having told his secretary where he is going while taking along a Company's portable radio, John drove for 45 minutes on highway 15 down to the Wimmer-road project, following his forman in his own 4x4. When they reached the end of the new road, which was only a few hundred yards away from the "Rocks", he saw these massive grey boulders sticking out of the soil like trying to impose themselves and intimidate anyone wanting to get closer. John didn't believe his eyes and couldn't stop starring at them, they were all alike and the same size. His breath was very slow.

Only four boulders were partially disengaged and to be clearly seen, and they are supposed to be 10 of them as Al Baumer said, all totally identical and covering a distance of a little more than 80 yards. The forest is very dense here and trees are quite mature, making it hard to see how many and in what position they actually were, but once gone through that thick bush to the end, one could see that they are in a funnel like position, pointing north, and getting narrower again at the other end.
What are they, where did they come from, what are they doing out here, how did they get here, from where and are they manmade or just a natural wonder, isn't known at all? These questions went roaming in his mind while he slowly found the courage to follow Bauer to see them closer, looking up at them as impressive as they were, standing alone in a formation as if to warn the intruders. Slowly, very barely, the Dark Forest starts about here, getting thicker and darker the more we advance to the south-east.

85.01
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At the fourth boulder John paused and pulled out his portable radio from his belt, making sure that it is adjusted to the right channel.

<<" Mike, are you on the radio?", he spoke into the company's only way of communication outside their offices. John repeated the messages about four times before he got an answer.
"What's up John, I'm listening, over."
"Where are you Mike? Over."
"I'm at Slye's, picking up those 350 red cedar 10x10's for the little bridge over the creek on the Wimmer road. By the way, I chose the 14 feet ones, Slye gave me the same price as the 12 footers. We can cut them to the sizes needed overthere. What's up John? Over."
"Have you been on the Wimmer road lately? Did you see the big rocks? Over."
"What rocks?" Mike curiously asked. "I haven't been there since yesterday morning, what do you mean by rocks? What rocks? Over."

John was still looking at the boulders, realizing that it wouldn't be easy nor logical to explain that to Mike on the radio if he didn't see them yet.

"How long you still got to be there before the loading is done? Over."
"Hey John, I only just found a transport truck with a flatbed, loading has not started yet....and guess what, you wouldn't believe it...it's a woman truckdriver. Over." ....making sure that John hears some of his little sarcastic laughs.
John didn't even hear that comment, being way too occupied with those rocks.
"Listen Mike, tell the trucker what to do and where to bring them and get your ass overhere as fast as possible, ye hear? Over."
A little concerned now himself, Mike responded very fast and loud.
"What's the matter, John, is there an accident or what, over?"
"No accident, but a .....," searching desperately for a suitable word for this situation,".....problem or... something at the very end of the Wimmer road, just get here....now, ok? Over and out.">>

John hooked up the radio back on his belt and turned around to examine the surroundings of the location more closely.

That last phrase on the radio sounded very serious to Mike of course and he took it as a direct order. Mike knows John too well, it must be very important and no time to ask questions. He went to see this woman truckdriver that he found waiting for a run in Slye's office, our Anne Bradley from Phlox and explained quickly what to load and exactly where to deliver it, making her understood that he wants it at the delivery site before noon today. Then he gave her the loading and delivery slip and left to see John on the Wimmer road, about a good 15 minute drive from Slye's sawmill. He left Slye's lumberyard with a dustcloud attached to his pickup truck.

Women truck drivers were not common in the sixties in Simland, seldom seen and Anne wants this to be done perfectly, because she knows that once a foot in the doors of Gabber Inc, she can be almost sure to get a steady fulltime and well paid job for a long time to come.
There will be more of this story in a day or so. ;) Hope you like it sofar.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rambuckel on April 05, 2012, 02:25:08 PM
Hey Fred, you are really keeping us in suspense ;) That's a pretty thrilling story ... hope to read more of the rock-story, soon :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on April 05, 2012, 05:13:25 PM
Do the stones lead to the Moor of Agony?  ??? 

I like your plop dirt. My dirt always looks fake.

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 05, 2012, 08:51:07 PM
Quote from: rambuckel on April 05, 2012, 02:25:08 PM
Hey Fred, you are really keeping us in suspense ;) That's a pretty thrilling story ... hope to read more of the rock-story, soon :)

Glad you like it, more in a day or so.

Quote from: jmyers2043 on April 05, 2012, 05:13:25 PM
Do the stones lead to the Moor of Agony?  ??? 

I like your plop dirt. My dirt always looks fake.



I plop the dirt one by one click until it looks good, and sometimes I also mix in some x-small watertiles, very small rocks, grasses and other stuff here and there. Try it like this maybe. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Lockey on April 06, 2012, 01:35:53 PM
 &apls &apls &apls

Keep it coming Fred. the suspense is up there.

Gaz energy plant looks very interesting, I seen somewhere awhile aho that you had some pump jacks made. Think it may been on STEX. If you need some Images on Oil rigs.. Specially land oil rigs, have some personal ones when I was out west working on them.

Again Fred, amazing job.
Chris
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 06, 2012, 01:50:30 PM
Lockey, you can show those pictures of land oil rigs in my BATting Thread, they will surely be appreciated later.
Thanks.
http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=7835.200


Please go back a few posts to read the previous small updates of this specific story again to better understand the follow-up if you have forgotten or read this for the first time. You need to know all Update 85's. The Story continues.


UPDATE 85 D

"Ten Rocks"




Meanwhile some workers have gathered around John and his foreman at the ten rocks, all discussing the newly found mystery. Al Baumer asked John if the loggers should continue to clear the forest around the rocks this morning. Only at this moment John realized the sounds of the chainsaws up ahead and told Baumer to go stop them right away.

85.02
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John started thinking and worrying about that law that exists, not to interfere with archeologicals finds during any excavations and constructions and which is quite serious and strongly supported, especially by the regional and powerful Governor that he is a friend of. And then he realized that he and his company can get into serious problems with that specific law.
All this would probably mean a newly detour of the road will have to be planned before they can continue and this can take another extra  month or so. Only the studies will take a good three weeks, John is thinking, and what will he be doing with his men all that time. He will be most likely using the Wimmerteam on the Oil Company's road project on the other side of the Ganoga wilderness.
Problems, problems and problems, John thinks and thinks again. First the drainage pipes on the lower road have to be enlarged because the engineers didn't figure out properly the quantity of water in case of a big and powerful thunderstorm, he thought back. Then the road will have to go partially through those woods at the Darkforest, which is forbidden to fly over because of the technical disfuncioning of the airplanes and that somehow worries him and last not least, he has to get the gravel for this road project from all the way back from the Stoke Mountains, which is a good roundtrip of 2 hours for his trucks, just because the government doesn't want him to get the gravel needed from the lakeshores less than a mile away.

All of sudden a small but loud voice out of nowhere said:

<<"Maybe this is the gate for the Dark Forest. Hell's Gate? " A young worker was the source and other workers started laughing. John looked at him and said: "Don't tell me you believe in this nonsense also?"
"No nonsense, Sir. My Grandpa came here during the war, when they were looking for a lost pilot or someone. It was a secret mission, he said, very secret, because there were some strange things out here and they had been forced to shut up and not tell anyone."
John smiled: "What strange things, son?"
"I don't know, he never wanted to tell me, he said no one would believe him anyways.">>


John shook his head in total disagreement and disbelieve to the young man's comment. But only a few seconds later, all of sudden he remembered that it was nearby here, somewhere in the waters below that the old pilot Robert Sweathers crashed in 1942 at the end of the war and somehow survived for several years, until they found him at his homemade cottage near Phlox. Hmmm, that secret mission could have been..... him?....... Then John even got to dig further into his memories and thought of the incident when the pilot they discovered in that small hut near West River, was immediatly taken away for a health inspection or something by the army for a whole week, although he seemed in good health, that was strange....then. Has the army got something to do with his crash? Did they make him understand not to say anything about his crash and what he might have seen here? Is that the reason why they forbid us to fly over the area? What, what exactly the crash was, no one told us and.....wait a minute......what caused the crash in the first place anyways? They said he was shot down in the second world war? ....By Who????. No enemy planes were ever seen on the continent. Is Mike right that they are hiding something out at West River after all? Things are slowly making sense and seemed to be fitting just like a puzzle to John.

Whoa!!! He thought, let's calm down, so many things and incidents that are about driving him nuts, doubting now himself that Mike might really be right about his own doubts he has been having since the last four years. He looked up at the third rock again, then at the strange formation of the ones ahead of him and thought that this cannot be a simple coincidence of nature, no way....... but this is something done on purpose. But who and why? Mostly why, because who, John already had a good idea........

<<"Is everything ok Mr Gabber?" Al Baumer , his Wimmer road foreman asked in concern that John seemed to be completely empty minded for a minute.
"What,.....I mean Yes, I'm ok, just trying to think" John said." What do You think about this, Al?"
"Sir, what this is, we all have a different view and opinion of, but what's important now is that we are waiting for a solution and an order to go on. So, what have you in mind to do?" Baumer responded in a calm voice. John thought about it for no more than 5 seconds, then....

"Ok, Mike will handle this, meantime .........Damn it...." and John looked in serious thoughts in front of him at the ground,  "......just continue the clearing of the forest around those colossals, I want to see all of it by tomorrow morning. To hell with the law, we can always say that we didn't see anything while we were working on the road and that they can be lucky that we didn't blow up those rocks yet anyways. I'll take the responsability. You take the day off tomorrow, that's for the whole team here also, Mike will call you later tomorrow. He probably will stack you in with the Oilroad team for a few weeks while we try to discuss this with the government. Don't worry, the pay will not suffer from the day off tomorrow." John said while never leaving his eyes from the big rock they were all standing beside.>>


Another one tomorrow or on Sunday. I only got three more parts left of this story, hopefully being able to buy some time to finsih my rendering of the MFP1 Model set.

Enjoy. Have a nice weekend

Fred

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rambuckel on April 06, 2012, 03:50:45 PM
Hi Fred,

I wish you a nice weekend as well :) I'm still very curious about the next part of the story ...

Theresa
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Lockey on April 07, 2012, 02:46:16 PM
 :thumbsup:

As the plot thickens.... Have a good weekend Fred... Happy Easter Everyone.

Lockey
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on April 07, 2012, 09:46:01 PM
Next update awaited...  ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: 958517907 on April 07, 2012, 10:08:38 PM
Interesting ()stsfd()
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 08, 2012, 07:52:21 AM
Thanks guys, comments are much appreciated. This story is becoming complicated now, more and more. There will be two more updates like this before we get back to the "normal" MD. Hope you like this variation though.


Happy Easter Everyone



UPDATE 85 E

"Ten Rocks"


It was an instant joy to every worker when they heard that they had a paid day off and they didn't mind working hard today to disengage the forest around the blocks of rocks before nightfall.

Only a couple of minutes later, Mike arrived in his pick-up truck that he was driving like a racy sportscar followed by a huge dustcloud that filled instantly the construction site.
"Holy Mackerel!!!!"  was the only thing he said with a vibrating voice when he came out of that dustdriven truck to meet John beside the big rock and realized the immensity of it sitting right smack in the middle of the road's path. It took him several seconds to clear his mind and get a full picture of the spectacular scene around him and asked John:

<<"What in Jupiter's name did they come from?" looking at the first rock."Are there many of them?"
"Ten." John said very dry and added, "Baumer said that he walked the area a bit and didn't anything else around these boulders, but there's still two fellows out there walking the area further up."
"Did they discover it this morning or last night?" Mike continued and started walking towards the first rock that he wanted to touch so much by now.
"Baumer came to the office at 9 this morning when he told me about them, but they found the first one last night, but didn't think anything about it until the Trailmarker walked into the forest to mark the trees for the loggers. He was the one to have told Baumer about the other nine boulders." John answered. "By the way, weren't you supposed to close the site last night?" looking at Mike and waiting desperately for an explanation.
"I had to prepare the papers for the Oilroad's gravelpit last night, while  Mr Sterling was still Phlox. He left early this morning to Lakefield and we need the gravel in two days. I didn't feel like driving to the Capitol to get the contract signed. And this morning I had to make sure that the cedar logs get to the little creek down at Reever's Point. They need them tomorrow."
Mike explained while he was about to reach out to touch the first boulder. "I gave the gate's keys to Baumer, he was to lock it last night, didn't he do that?." looking back at John, who followed him only three steps back to the first rock.
"I don't know, I didn't ask, anyways it ain't important." John mentioned.>>

John looked at Mike petting the rock's surface just like a cat, which gave him the notion to advance and feel its surface also.

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Two hours of serious discussion started between the two later and everyone besides John and Mike, were gone, the construction site was empty and really looked like as if it was abandonned in a hurry. Both talked about the rock formation and its possible meaning and logical sense and they went right into the forest to meet the end of the rocks where only the loggers were still running their chainsaws to clear the site around the boulders.

<<So.... what are we going to do now?" Mike looked at John and waiting for a logical and serious answer."Blowing them up might get us into problems, you know, that could be another archeological find, hope you realize that...and why didn't you stop those loggers yet?."
"Noway," John started, "blowing this up is out of question, too large and too important. Besides it will be the talk of the week tomorrow and we will have the authorities on us by then. The loggers will clear all the rocks, then go home, I want to see those things all set free and clear."
"I guess we have to talk to the Administration Office in Lakestead tomorrow morning, right?" Mike asked.
"Well," John continued,"I will call them right away when I get back to the office and I let them know. I will also call the director of the Museum of natural history in Valmore to see where I have to report this in the region and give Joe Bean a ring, he might be interested in that story along with pictures for his Saturday Tribune before someone gets the crazy idea to hide this again. You will make sure that the team here will be added to the oilroad team near the Stoke Mountains, unless you could use them elsewhere. We will concentrate on that for the moment. I gave them a day off tomorrow. You can leave some of the machinery here, too many overthere will get into the way anyways. Also send the loggers overthere, after they've finished the clearing of the last boulder, they should be ready by nightfall, the way they bulldoze through the thicket. It should take a couple of weeks of planning and rerouting the road probably, and as soon as I get the new plans, we'll come back with the same team."...and after a deep breath John added, " Oh, and take pictures, as many as you can, from all angles. I've got to see my sons friend for his pictures from the Ganoga trip too later."

"They will surely not allow us to come back here, I wonder if the army will get involved again, making us believe that these rocks are dangerous for our health or are a menace to our security. I guess that they will find some Porolium gas here also." Mike added with a smile."
John nodded positively, knowing exactly what Mike meant with this comment,
"I have to go now, we talk about that later, but for now I got an appointment to cancel for this afternoon and make a dozen or so calls from the office. I also have to pick up the picture Charly and his gang made during the Ganoga trip, I'm very interested in that now. I'll be at the office all afternoon, ok? I'll call you. Bye." >>

On the way back to his Jeep, John realized that the loggers and workers have been busier in the last week than he expected, the road is way further into the area
than anticipated. That's excellent he thought, looking at all those immense logs on the side of the freshly graveled road that came out of these thick and dark forest. At least a stretch of 2 miles ahead, he thought. Then he thought about that comment of the young worker again. Could it be that this was actually a gate or something for the Dark Forest? If he goes by the aerial and topographical maps that the government gave him for the construction of the road, the Dark Forest only starts in about 3 miles from there, on the other side of the little river. John thinks about having a very close look of these maps later also when he gets to the office, but then......nah, that can't be, he said to himself out loud and continued to walk to his pick-up.

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In the afternoon, John made his calls to the Administration Office in Lakestead, the museum, the archeological department of the Minister of Natural Resources, while Mike planned out a way to fit in all those workers that worked on the Wimmerroad project, 120 in all.
Early in the next morning, a military jeep was seen in the area, a couple of workers reported to Baumer, but never went down the road to the rocks, just as Mike predicted. During the day, the gate to the Wimmer road project was locked and Baumer had the job to open and close it when the machinery will be transported to the other site, also making sure that the military had no easy access to the site for the moment. Mike went to see if Anne Bradley brought the cedar beams to the right place last night and John was simply......gone. Even his secretary in Access Center didn't know where he went this morning.

<<"John, are you on the radio, come in." Mike tried to reach him with the Company's radios."John, are you there?" After several tries he looked at John's secretary and ask her, "Did John take a radio with him this morning?"
"I don't know," the secretary said, "Mr Gabber didn't come in this morning, unless he came before I arrived. He usually always leaves a note or calls me up when he doesn't come to the office, but I didn't find anything. Should I call try to call his home?"
"Yes, do that Katy, I will go into his office and try to reach him on the radio again. I have to talk to him absolutely." Mike picked up the radio and left to John's office where he tried for the following 5 minutes to reach him, then the door opened and Katy came in and said:
" I called home and they said that he left very early this morning before dawn in a rush, kinda looking nervous and eager, his daughter said. And I counted the radios, not one is missing, so he didn't pick one up this morning, but the old orange pick-up is missing this morning in the court. I wonder where he parked his car though."

Mike reached out the radio and said at the same time while leaving the office,
"I know where he is." And that was it, Mike was on his way out.>>


I'll be back soon again. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Lockey on April 08, 2012, 02:45:03 PM
 &apls

interesting....  ()stsfd()
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rambuckel on April 09, 2012, 02:41:30 PM
That's such a thrilling end again ;) Looking forward to the next part ....
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Will12 on April 10, 2012, 07:02:41 PM
Da da daaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa! Exciting finish I hope!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on April 10, 2012, 10:46:12 PM
Keeping us on our seats edge, eh Mr. Bison?   :satisfied:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on April 21, 2012, 12:58:28 PM
Looks like I've missed a few updates!

Can you show us a pic on a map where this is taking place compared to other spots you've mentioned (i.e. where the plane went down, where the boys traveled, and where the hut was, etc)?

Great work!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 21, 2012, 02:48:38 PM
Quote from: CabraBuitre on April 21, 2012, 12:58:28 PM
Looks like I've missed a few updates!

Can you show us a pic on a map where this is taking place compared to other spots you've mentioned (i.e. where the plane went down, where the boys traveled, and where the hut was, etc)?

Great work!


Sorry for not coming that often, but I am busy finishing my Modernfarm Proppack at the moment.


Here is a picture of July 1967, just about the time the last story is happening. Be aware that it is a big fullsized png picture of the whole region, explaining most everything to do with the story since the beginning of the MD. Hope that explains it detail. ;)

Question: Is there anyone else than our 4 or 5 regular posters that read this MD? The comments here have been enormously reduced in the last 2 months.

Have a nice weekend and don't worry, I'll be back soon.

Fred


Once the picture is loaded you will have to click on it to get the real size of 2750x1250.

http://www7.zippyshare.com/v/9433735/file.html

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on April 24, 2012, 09:28:33 AM
Wonderful updates mr Bison
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: red_dwarfers on April 25, 2012, 04:47:14 PM
Fred,

A few days ago I decided to give SC4 a go and have been playing it a bit too regularly :D I am truly astonished with the care and attention you've paid to the Winding River and never would have thought something like this could come from a game like SC. I guess I never realised that there's so many different levels on which it can be played.

I've just finished reading up to page 10 and will chunk up the rest over the next few days to get up to date. I'm going to tell my old SimCity buddy (we used to play it rather a lot on the Commodore Amiga!) about it, I'm sure he'll enjoy this wonderful story.

Even without comments, I'm sure there are many 'lurkers' who have it tucked away in their browser bookmarks.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on April 25, 2012, 09:36:48 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on April 21, 2012, 02:48:38 PM
Quote from: CabraBuitre on April 21, 2012, 12:58:28 PM
Looks like I've missed a few updates!

Can you show us a pic on a map where this is taking place compared to other spots you've mentioned (i.e. where the plane went down, where the boys traveled, and where the hut was, etc)?

Great work!


Sorry for not coming that often, but I am busy finishing my Modernfarm Proppack at the moment.


Here is a picture of July 1967, just about the time the last story is happening. Be aware that it is a big fullsized png picture of the whole region, explaining most everything to do with the story since the beginning of the MD. Hope that explains it detail. ;)

Question: Is there anyone else than our 4 or 5 regular posters that read this MD? The comments here have been enormously reduced in the last 2 months.

Have a nice weekend and don't worry, I'll be back soon.

Fred


Once the picture is loaded you will have to click on it to get the real size of 2750x1250.

http://www7.zippyshare.com/v/9433735/file.html

Thanks sir, that's exactly what I needed!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 25, 2012, 09:45:11 PM
CabraBruitre, glad to have delivered what you needed. Besides it was time to give you all an overlook of the story to place things on a map. Thanks for asking.

red_dwarfers, happy to see a new face here, welcome. I'm on a "small" break right now and rendering my MFP1 set (Modernfarmprops). That is one reason why I haven't continued uploading the story yet, but also because visits have been slow  in my MD lately.
Anyways, I know there are some lurkers behind the curtains, have been looking at the visit numbers lately, good thing, because I was starting to think I was alone with my 6 or 7 "Members". ;)

Have fun reading and tell everyone to do as you did, come out and comment. Thanks, much appreciated.
I will be back soon, don't worry.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: carlfatal on May 27, 2012, 01:03:11 PM
Wasn´t here for a while but now again i sit on my chair, curious and hooked...
But first i have to admit: i love how You bring things together after a so long time of writing. Nothing get´s forgotten here.  &apls &apls &apls
Back to the story: it sounds more fishy than ever! I´m really sure John is visiting Mr Sweathers before it´s too late for. Maybe this man is one of the keys to the truth. As i said before:i don´t believe in Porolium, sometimes i think Your information about this is a fake!  $%Grinno$%
But John will be the one to discover what happened really. And i think, it´s a good idea to bring information to the museum and the newspapers, so there is no chance for the military to hold it´s hand over these things. Porolium - nonono... not with me, not with Mr Gabbber!  ;)

But horrible again: the only thing i want is to know what will happen here! Suspension pure!  &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 28, 2012, 04:15:03 AM
Sorry to have taken so long for an update, but as most of you know, I am very busy with my farmpack models that I am doing with FrankU. Besides this MD has had very little attention from readers lately that I just might put it on hold for the summer or for a few weeks.

Thanks carlfatal, always nice to hear from you and I am glad that you like the story. Mysterious all this it is for sure, even I am starting to wonder what's going on here.......lol

Here's another update of this 85 series of the Ten Rocks situation.



UPDATE 85 F

"Ten Rocks"

It was 8 AM exactly, the sun was up already and its warmth could be felt on his shoulders and the back. No wind and one could smell the rising humidity from the freshly stirred up soil at the Ten Rocks yard. John arrived at the  site, only to find Slye and Baumer at the locked gate.

<<"Hey Terry, what are you doing here?" John asked Slye and also looked at Baumer as if he wanted to know if he told Slye about the rocks.
"Hi JOhn, I had to come to see the loggers this morning, I am in need of the large Palepine logs they have been cutting lately in this area, but Geeeez....no loggers....What's going on?", and Slye was pointing his indexfinger at the lot of parked machinery near the gate? "What the heck is happening? Al doesn't want to tell me,  besides that you gave the loggers a day off he said?."
Then Al Baumer explained that he came at 6:30 this morning and met some folks waiting at the gate for an unknown reason, when Slye came and wanted to see the loggers.
"Mr Slye helped me turn back those curious folks that were at the gate this morning. Kinda got scared to see so many people I don't know." he said, and looking at Slye he continued, "and since I know that Mr Slye is a good friend of yours Sir, I told him that you were expected to be here early this morning. Mr Allheimer told me last night, not to let in anyone that doesn't have a personal permission from him or you Sir, and that's exactly what I did."
" Yeah, no problem Al, that's alright." John affirmed and tapped on Als shoulder telling him that he did a good job and then looked at Slye, "This is quite something Terry, you'll see. Did the loggers finish the cutting last night?" and he turned back to Baumer.
"Yes Sir, they left at 8 PM." Baumer answered.
"Let's have a closer look at it now, we'll take my pickup.">> John told both and all three stepped into his Company's truck and drove down the freshly leveled trail to the middle of those rocks, closing the gate behind them.

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Slye was speechless, so was John, when both saw the aligned 10 rocks all free from the treegrowth. Ten rocks they were alright, standing in a funnel like position from north to south.

<<"What in the devil's name is this supposed to be now?" Slye murmurred about 3 minutes after his stunning moment."What the heck?????" That was all he could say and didn't even wait for anser and started walking towards one of them to have a closer look of its height and massiveness. Then Terry looked back at John, who was actually also starring at all the rocks and their formation, wondering why they were implanted like this.
"Do you have an idea of what that is, John?"
"No." was John's very short answer without hesitation.
"Don't tell me they just dropped in here from the sky. It looks like they've been here for a long time, right?" again looking at John and mentioning the moss growth on the surface.
"I only saw three of them yesterday morning when they discovered it." said John, "I don't have more nor better ideas than you my friend. Mike thinks that it got something to do with those ancient skullpeople, but I can't figure out how in the world they brought these here that many years ago, and why they did it. Do you have an idea?" And starring at Terry.
Terry just shook his head, letting John know that he is out of ideas at the moment.>>

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An hour later Mike arrived in his pickup, telling John that he was sure to find him here this morning and asking why he didn't bring along a radio. He also was amazed to see the area around the rocks cleared and couldn't help to throw in a remark that "his boys" worked well. All four walked from one rock to the other, realizing that they are all about the same size and shape. Granit, they were. just plein granit. Strange, John thought, granit is only available, as much as he knows, in the Snake River Region, and that is some 300 miles south from here.

<<"Did you realize that these are Granit, Mike?" John asked while scratching on the surface of these rocks to see what' hidden under the lichen and moss,"Is there any granit in this area that you know of?"
Baumer jumped in to answer this, he who knows the area better than everyone else.
"There is a small granit deposit on a mountain not too far from here, it's called the "Devil's Back". It's just about 6 to 8 miles south of here. I went there last year with the geologist who wanted to see the end of the Ganoga lake and find out what the earth's crust would be made of in that area."
"The Devil's Back"? Mike stuntly asked, "That's Mount Venus just on the other side of the Lowbanks creek and the Venus wetlands......haha.....nahhh, that's impossible, you can't brings rocks of that size over the wetlands, impossible, we can't even do this today with all the machinery we have. The swamps are too wet and too wide. They must come from this side of the swamp, maybe the Sawyerhills?"
"No." John said,"The Sawyerhills are slate, nothing else than slate, no granit there. That I know of for sure. The only place I know granit is in the Snake River region too, but that's way too far." Both Al and Mike agreed on that, nodding their heads positively.>>

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Mike received a radio message from the secretary asking for John, while they reached the last rock. She said that some officials from the Minister of Ressources and the Administration office were at the office and wanted to see John. After telling his secretary to invite the guests to the restaurant for breakfast while he will be driving back to the office, John told Mike some things to see at, take pictures again and told Baumer to lock the gate after leaving and left to Access Center to meet the officials that he called up yesterday.

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In his office one hour later, he met the officials, handed over the keys for the lock on the gate and explained in all details what they found. After a few hours of discussion, the three officials invited John for lunch and then they went on their way to the rock site alone. John called Al Baumer on the radio to prepare for their arrival.
Now John all he can do is to wait out for their approval to continue the construction of the Wimmerroad.
Meanwhile he will concentrate on the Oilroad on the other side of the Ganoga Wilderness and highway 15, which is about to make a sharp turn north following the Mighty Winding River.

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There will be one more update to this series and then back to the regular regional news.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: noahclem on May 28, 2012, 04:27:51 AM
Lovely pictures of the forest and a couple nice construction pics of the city  &apls
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mave94 on May 28, 2012, 01:05:13 PM
Very nice story. Well done! :thumbsup:
Reading this might help me to improve my english.

-Matthijs
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: sc-4 on May 29, 2012, 11:58:52 AM
I've just read your whole MD , and it'st just awsome !
A great story ( you could make a movie with it x) , very good explanation , great work in sc and with the BAT and LE , i love your MD mrbisonm !
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on May 29, 2012, 06:42:04 PM
Thanks noahclem, nice to drop in and leave a note. ;)

Quote from: MrMAvE94 on May 28, 2012, 01:05:13 PM
Very nice story. Well done! :thumbsup:
Reading this might help me to improve my english.

-Matthijs

Well Matthijs, if it helps your english, you must come back.... ;) Thanks for coming and glad you like it.


Quote from: sc-4 on May 29, 2012, 11:58:52 AM
I've just read your whole MD , and it'st just awsome !
A great story ( you could make a movie with it x) , very good explanation , great work in sc and with the BAT and LE , i love your MD mrbisonm !

Great to see a new face here and surely glad you like it. I was starting to wonder if I only had those 6 or 7 usual readers here only. Come back again.


Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: carlfatal on May 29, 2012, 07:25:07 PM
Oh, i´m sure there are a lot more readers...  ;)
But not everyone is writing his or her thoughts, maybe they are too shy.  :-\

As i´read the new update my first idea was: this was made by aliens... next idea: some kind of stonehenge monument...  :o

And the view of the town with all the construction sites: real fast growing. Soon access will be a big town, only some old houses and the church will remind of the old village it was a few years ago. Perfect pictures...
Greetz, Carl
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: turtle on June 02, 2012, 07:19:51 AM
I'm here.

Interesting story and lovely landscaping.

Also, all the cities, towns and villages are very well done - you have a knack for making them interesting - you give them some unique features and let their identities revolve around them. Excellent work.  :thumbsup:

Looking forward to the next.

- Thomas
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Flatron on June 02, 2012, 07:50:56 AM
I really like the idea of a country beeing develloped  :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on June 06, 2012, 06:13:14 AM
Excellent updates! I've been a bit of a lurker lately but trust me, I'm around. ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on June 17, 2012, 11:53:58 PM
Quote from: KoV Liberty on June 06, 2012, 06:13:14 AM
been a bit of a lurker lately but trust me, I'm around. ;)

So am I  ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 20, 2012, 10:38:31 AM
Thanks guys, good to know that more of you are still around than I thought.
I am very busy irl and with my Farming Project right now, but I should have an update witin a week or so, including some new BATs from me. ;)

Commenting will help me to improve my sequences of posts and updates. Thanks.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on June 20, 2012, 11:54:06 AM
Quote from: mrbisonm on May 28, 2012, 04:15:03 AM

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Everyone is intriqued but me, apparantly. The stones were placed there by mystic spirits guarding the Dark Forest. The Spirits acknowledged Tuesday that a loophole in a centuries-old hex have allowed John Styles and Al Baumer to violate the site without being cursed. A series of unspeakable horrors should have been visited upon them when loggers cut the trees that hid the granite stones.

"Whew!" is all John could say.

"We'll get the hex right the next time" said the 10th spirit who represents the 10th stone.




Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on June 20, 2012, 04:18:37 PM
Nice update to the story Mr B! :satisfied:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 12, 2012, 10:27:54 AM
UPDATE 85 G

"Ten Rocks"

Friday, June 23rd, 1967, John arrived early at the office again. Two days have passed since scientists, historians, the army, an University team from Lakestead, the National Television and many others, almost everyone around, have been around the rocks for the whole afternoon and evening, studying, filming and almost turning over the Ten Rocks site in Ganoga. This morning at 10 AM,  John has an appointment with a commissioner from the Federal Administration Office in Lakestead in his office. He wants to be prepared since the comissioner will present the new plan for the Wimmer road to the coast through the dark forest and also give him the latest findings about the Ten Rocks. It only took 24 hours for the new plan to make, something Gabber would have never dreamed of.

Mike arrived a couple minutes later and both were waiting with a coffee in the meeting room at Gabber's office in downtown Access Center. Mike closed the open windows to avoid the sound of the big constructionsite nearby disturbing their discussion with the officials.

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Three people arrived at the time exact of the appointment and all five sat down at the big round office table lightened by the morning sun.
<<"Mr Gabber", the darkblue suited official started," I can imagine that you are surprised to hear that new the plan for the Road to the coast is already made, but we would like to make it a priority for the road to be finished by the end of the year as we have planned before. Now you know that it is very important for us to finish the road before Christmas. The find of these ten rocks surely has disturbed the works and plans a little, I can imagine, but I hope that you will continue as soon as possible without any further delay."
" Oh, surprised I surely am, I thought that it would take at least a month, so I have re-positioned all my workers. Never thought that the goverment would actually be capable of hurrying things." Gabber said with a sarcastic smile. John doesn't like officials and folks that wear ties all the time. We know this from an earlier incident.
The man went through his papers in his document on the table looking for the right page which he handed over to John.
" This is the official demand and order for the detour and here are the plans." And the representive in the darkblue suit handed over some small pages to Gabber.

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Mike and John looked at each other, then looked at this small page. John not being sure what is going on here, asks: "That's it? I mean, that is the whole new plan for the road? Those two inches on paper??"
"Yes Mr Gabber, the road will be tossed over for 25 yards only and a length of 180 yards, continuing only for the length of these rocks and come back to its original path." The Transportation department has decided not to alter the route too much since nothing really important was found at the site."
"And the rocks? These rocks aren't important?" Mike added.
"Well, the rocks will stay as they are, they will be fenced in a little just to keep off the curious and the commission of Simland's history will take it from there. I'm not in the position to say or not to say if they are important or not. Besides, I have not seen them yet."
"You mean to tell me that they aren't going to cut off the whole area like they did in West River?" Mike had to add.
"What is in West River?" another of the three official visitors in the black suit asked with a seemingly serious face. Mike didn't like that fellow as soon as he opened his mouth and John was able to read it on his face instantly. John grabbed Mike by the arm and gave him his serious and authority look of his, meaning to just shut up!
"Well, the porolium and those skullrocks ruins , they surely seem to be important, the whole place is fenced in and guarded." now Mike was wondering how come that the first site became a real forteresse and this site only of small interest, while swallowing his *need to *kill* that fellow*.
The blacksuited official, older of age than the others explained very shortly why the army is there.
"The army has cut off the area because it was decided that a permanent base would be very practical at this site, not interfering with the artifacts of the historical find. The Porolium is under control also. That the army stayed there is just a matter of coincidence"
"The ten rocks are a great and a very important find, or that is what the historians and scientists say sofar," the first official in the blue suit cut in", but of no interest to the army nor the government itself. What is important is that the historical site is preserved and protected from the public and that the Wimmer road to the coast will be finished by December 31st this year at the latest." A silent 10 seconds of looking at each other over the round table, probably to see their facial reactions, then he continued, "It will probably be classified as an official historical site, just the same as the ruins of the city that Mr Gabber's son found near the Mighty Rive, and then it will be studied by the commission of Simland's history and origins."
"Wait a minute, what city ruins you are talking about?," John jumped in being very confused and wondering how come that they knew about his city in the Ganoga Wilderness.
"Please let me present myself Mr gabber", the young man in the darkgrey suit on the windowside jumped into the conversation. " My name is Willard Deforge, I am from the Commision of Simland's History. We have seen the pictures that we seized from the Access Tribune that were brought there by your son yesterday to be published in tomorrow's edition, but fortunetly we arrived in time, not to alarm the population with another mystery that they will start like the West River Story, nor to begin again unneccessary rumours before we can explain it in better and more truthfully means. You must have heard it from your son by now?" he said while looking directly at John and waiting for an answer.
Mike really looked worried by now and his nervosity could be felt while he looked at John who said: "I haven't seen my son since two days, he's supposed to be home in Bluebay while I have been at my cottage in Grasslake for the whole week. How did you find out that he had taken some pictures of some old ruins during his trip through the wilderness".
"We already knew about the ruins for a few years, it's just that your son and his group rediscovered it for the second time and since it is not really proofed or cleared up yet what it actually is and means to the population, the government would like to keep it quiet until the sites are studied and classified as historical finds. We wait until an access road will be built. Don't worry, and as we told your son, the credit of discovering the ruins will go entirely to your son's group once it is officially announced.">>
John and Mike were left speechless. The converstation continued with several more questions from John and Mike for the rest of the morning, but only half of them were clearly explained. Before the officials left, the man in the darkblue suit handed over another document with a demand to build another road around the Stoke mountains to access the ruins in Stoke Creek, which John has. Once they left, Mike, the secretary and John talked the matter over a lunch at Barby's Biergarten in Access and of course including a few cold beers to rinse the events of the morning.

85.14
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So, we will leave John and Mike figure out and digest what they just learned from the offcials from the Lakestead Administration Office. Meanwhile we will have a look at the new revised plan of the wimmer road to the coast. As we can see, changes are minor, leaving the ten rocks site just on the side of the road.
85.15

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Also here is the plan for the new road that will lead to the ruins of the old city that the Ganoga Boys discovered, another road contract for Gabber Inc. John decided that it will be his son Charly, now almost 18 years old, that will help Mike to plan, execute it and supervise the project. Charly took of a few months off from his studies before going to the Lakestead University in September.  

85.16
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Here is a picture of the "downtown" Access Center as it is today.

85.17
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That's it for this episode of the Ten Rocks.

I have decided to take a break now. Too many things in real life, a lot of work, beautiful weather and the MFP1 (Modern Farm Props) Projects are taking a lot of my time these days. There's also the decrease in this MD's interest from the readers, but I guess during the summer, many of You hopefully enjoy the outdoors and fresh air.

I will though surely come back to the Winding River Project once the colder (and wetter) weather installs itself, which could be possibly be in September or October 2012. (Promissed!!!) I guess you all understand and I positively hope that you will come back when the the Valley continues to develop (with new Nexis BATs) and action becomes intenser. (Remember that Mike, a former special division soldier of the second worldwar, is planning to hit the armybase later this fall to find out once and for all what really is going on there).

I wish you a beautiful summer and great happenings for you all and make sure you come back later. Meanwhile you can see me in the FrankU and Nexis CO-OP Thread and in my BAT-thread of Nexis Works for the rest of summer.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lak47 on July 31, 2012, 01:20:02 AM
Another twist!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Ricky112233 on August 01, 2012, 08:40:49 AM
Well, I can assure that I will regurlarly check up on WRP!  :)
I'm back! Missed me?  :P

I oc'ed my pc in April and it was fine untill one day, it crashed, and now I'm stuck in a POST loop.  :'( Therefor, I had lost some interest in SC4(D) as I had some other things on my mind... Luckily enough I have a tablet and a laptop to use for surfin'.  ;D

Long story short, I'm back, and I absolutely love the mysterious 'Ten Rocks' story.

Cheers,
-Ricky :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on August 05, 2012, 11:54:47 AM
Glad that still two or three are interested in the story. Once the hot days of summer are over, I will be back with the story and the Valley of the Winding River. Hopefully by then more readers will have the time to post and show their interest in this MD.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Flatron on August 05, 2012, 12:13:50 PM
Even though I don't always find the right words and therefor don't always post, I really like the story and the last up. was good. &apls
keep it up!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on August 06, 2012, 07:06:02 PM
Wouldn't call it a slowdown in interest on my part so much as a upturn in workload in RL. Still enjoying the ride too, so I'll keep an eye out for the next update.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on August 12, 2012, 09:49:11 AM
looks good, glad I can get all caught up :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on August 18, 2012, 08:22:12 PM
Whew! All caught up! Nice one Fred. Can't wait for the next one! ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on October 06, 2012, 01:49:43 PM
Looks like I'd missed a couple of updates as I've been away for a bit! Nice twist and storyline, as usual.


Can't wait to see what the future holds!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Durfsurn on October 19, 2012, 02:57:57 AM
I a lurker ill say it! Now I'm coming out and posting eh? Looking good cant wait for an update.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rambuckel on October 19, 2012, 06:52:35 AM
I'm back as well :) Summer is over and the time for good books and stories is coming ... I just read those parts of the story I missed while I was "away" ... As always it was a pleasure to read on. I'm looking forward to the next update!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on October 19, 2012, 02:38:32 PM
Well. I'm glad there's still some folks interested, even a lurker showed up. lol  (...welcome btw)

There's an update, or let's say some reminding facts of the story coming up near the second week of November. That's about the time that I will find peace and quiet from all the things I am busy with at the moment.
So you will have to be patient until then. ;)

Thanks for letting me know your interest.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on October 19, 2012, 07:25:21 PM
Good to hear you're still going on this Fred. Looking forward to what comes next.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: sunv123 on November 06, 2012, 08:24:08 AM
The time is getting closer!  ;D the first week of November is here....

Can't wait till' the next update comes out. ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Ricky112233 on November 25, 2012, 03:59:47 AM
First week of December perhaps?  :P

But seriously, I know you have other things to do in RL, especially this time of the year is very busy for some people, including me.

Anyway, I will be waiting eagerly 'till the next update :)

-Ricky
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mightygoose on November 29, 2012, 06:02:02 PM
I am back from the wild. It is good to see this still running. great updates, I only have about 40 pages to catch up on :P
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 30, 2012, 09:31:45 AM
I am a few weeks late, but now I am back. I had a VERY busy summer and fall, like never seen before and this kept me from the internet, although I took a small peak almost every day or so.

Glad to see quite a few folks still interested in this MD, wo, some of you that I haven't seen around for quite a while.
I will be more regular from now on, at least until late spring.


First of all, let's have a little "backdraft" of the story, just to give us back some memories back and help us to continue the story in the right path.

<<  The story is about some Sims that have become the builders of the Winding River Region within Simland. Simland is (let's think of it as..) an imaginary Nation somewhere in between Canada and the US or something like this. Aborigins were people that arrived from northern Europe, sometime 5 or even 6 thousand years ago, but they almost completely disappeared before the modern Europeans arrived on the continent. Today Sims are descendants form several mixed cultures, who came with the first Europeans building up the 14 regions to a fast growing nation. The regions can be seen on the Simland Map below.

The Winding River Region is the center of the story, although we will sometimes travel through other existing regions in Simlandand jumping from one to another (jumper), all depending where the story brings us to. The story started when the Gabber Company received the job to connect Highway 15 from Sandon with Highway 30 from Beecherfalls through the wilderness of the Winding River Valley and where a small community installed itself after the highway and the highway's access road jointed. This was the beginning of Access Junction. It grew with the years and finally became Access Center. Later some other small communities appeared on the map, such as Grasslake, Phlox, Fingerlake, Valmore and Holland Falls. While Access Center was growing a lot faster than the other communities, it finally swallowed up a few such as Valmore and Grasslake that became an official part of Access Center.
We are, at the moment, in 1967 and the highway is not yet finished, but it should reach the end of the region withing the next year. Meanwhile other roads have been added and/or are about to be added to the region.>>

Latest Regionview 1967 (Warning:xlarge png detailed region picture. The best thing is to download it and have a closer look at it with your window viewer in full size)

http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/4403/wrp1967.png



The story also includes a quite a few "characters" (which I have called so), some of them sponsered by our regular Readers. I have added some of them.
Let's re-visit these "characters" now, just for the fun of it and to remember who and what they are and present in the story.

- The Gabber Family, the most important Sims in the story. Here are John Gabber (58), his wife Mary Moondall (51) and their children, John Jr (27), Vera (25), Melody-Ann (22), William (19),aka Billy and Charly (17), the last which is also the story teller together with me. Then there is John's brother Gary (54), who is the CEO of the Gabber Ltd,and his wife Jackie Melhorn (47) and their son Edward (17), then the Gabber father Henry (79), the founder of the company in early 20th century and his wife Marlene, which lately died at the age of 75.

- Mike Allheimer (56) is the General Foreman of Gabber Constructions and John's best friend since WW II, where both were specially trained fighterpilots, his wife Liza van Hove (51).

- Rundi Sterling (65) is the multi-millionaire in the story, an aborigin that owns almost a third of the region's lands, who is also a vivd collector of ....real live castles. His wife is Tyla (51) and they have 8 children. He is in Finance and Banking.

- Joe Bean (46) was and still is the first Editor and founder of the local newspaper "The Access Tribune".

- Steven Bartlett (31) is the second mayor of Access Center since 1963 and he is in his second manditory.

Other characters are:


- Adrien McCoy (26), the man who defends nature and the valley's region history and landsapes, kind of a "pre-greenpeace".
- Miss Moarsen (87), an old lady who owns the first farm in Access and therefore quite a few acres in and around Access and Valmore.
- Peter Moarsen (62), one of the lady's sons, who owns the big Trucking Company in Access.
- William B. Sharp (63), who is the first mayor of Phlox since 1963.
- Harry Peyton (58), who is the General based in the military base near West River together with Col. Neil Meyers (44).
- Heinz Meckermann (42) (I honestly have forgotten who he actually is and does, but it will come back to me one day)...lol
- Phillip Mueller (37), the Compost King, who only lately arrived to the region.
- The Streicher family, who are the biggest Wine Producers in Simland and now live in Access Center, Richard Streicher (67).
- Jacob Monarch (51), or often called "Big Jake", a very busy recycler from Lakefield.
- Al Baumer (56), one of the smaller Project managers such as the Wimmer road Project, and who is also a very trusted and steady hand to John Gabber and Mike Allheimer.
- Richard Welder (43), the outfitter of the region, now in Phlox.
- Dennys Roy (42), the slaughterhouse owner and the biggest meatsupplier of the region.
- Kyle Roberts (40), the new Police Chief since 1965.
- George Troy (73), an old darker skinned fellow that is the right hand of Rundi Sterling, mostly taking care of his lands, but also has a small part-time bycycle repairshop in Phlox and a Cantina for the highway workers on the highway somewhere near the Willow Ponds in the region.
- Robert Yome (25), who at the moment is still working politically involved in Lakestead and studying law at the Lakefield University.
and finally...
- Tony Racsan (72), Guys father and the fifth richest sim in Simland, now retired on Grasslake.

The following are "characters" from our regular readers:

- TS, or Slye, or Terry S. Slye (28), who is the owner of the sawmills and Logging Company, also a good friend of John Gabber and one of the richest and youngest fellows around, trying at the moment to get himself into railing to deliver his cut logs and timber to the the big cities. Sponsered by threestooges.
- Alex Puto (33), the chief Bridge Engineer for Gabber Ltd, who has fallen in love lately with Katie Panssky (27) from Phlox Island, who owns the small boating place there. Sponsered by KovLiberty.
- Gregory Badger (25), a part-time military from West River, trying to get himself to become a big Farmproduct Producer in the region, mostly vegetables. Greg has his small farm on Phlox island at the moment and bought some land on the mainland near Phlox. Sponsered by frostwolf.
- Guy Racsan (27), Tony's son, a jetengin manufacturer and since a few years also a car maker, Racsan Motors Company (RMC). A powerful and ambitious young man who is one of the main employers in the region already. Sponsered by Nascar_Guy.
- Johnny B. Badd (22), a local mobster who started out selling drugs to the population at the age of 12 and now owns a laundry shop in Access to hide his ever blooming illegal Drug buissness in Access. Who doesn't know Johnny?. Sponsered by nedalezz.
- Nethaniel J. Welligton (39), the owner of Club Foods Inc and several other food stores, slowly growing into the massive food supplier of the region. Sponsered by  danielcote.
- Harry Wormwood (29), the "notsoalwayshonest" cardealer in Access, married to Maria Torregrossa (26), which he has a son with named Aldo (2). Sponsered by MattyFo.
- Tom Kohler (29), who started out with his Taxi buissness and then dsevelopped the first public bussing buissness in the town, but lately sold the whole thing, except the Taxi buissness, to Guy Racsan, who also now runs the schoolbusses in town. Sponsered by RustyXL.
- Michael Arven (21), still in the University studying architecture. Sponsered by mightygoose.
- Bob Mangarten (46), the newly arrived local telephone repairman. Married to Rose (42), they have a daughter Brooke (16) and son Brett (12). Sponsered by jmyers2043.
- William Sculpten (21), fresh out of the Hampton College in Beecherfalls and also newly arrived to town and working with the first government computer that have come to the Access' offices. Sponsered by Will12.
- Vito Scaletta (30), an Italian born young man, who is somewhat busy at the airport doing...things, but no one really knows what exactly he does yet, some say he's implicated with the Italian Mafia. Sponsered by KovLiberty.
- Jordan Meaden (17), one of the Ganoga boys and friends with Charly and the others, who is specialized in creatings new maps of the region. Sponsered by canyonjumper.
- Trent Michaels (32), he is a retired Navy Captain that would like to open a small marina near Phlox. He just got here too. Sponsered by rjet13.
- Michael Truex (32), the first fastfood owner in town, having opened two MrBurger in the region sofar. Sponsered by Nascar_Guy.
- The Twins George and Patrick Westwood (believe it or not, both are28 yearsold) , Pat went with the Ganoga boys through the wilderness, as the oldest and the responsable, while George is taking care of the old church in Access Center, keeping it in good shape for the tourists. Sponsered by CabraBuitre.
- Dirk Kujit (24), who comes from the Nardician Islands down south and would like to open a small fishery at the river's mouth. Sponsered by lak47.
- Charles M. Johnson (23), he is the fellow from Bluebay and very afraid of water, so he came to Access to work as a journalist for the Access Tribune. Sponsered by emgmod.
- Diarmuid MacGormain (18), just became of legal age and Charly's best friend by now and also one of the fellows that experienced the Ganoga wilderness. A real fan of tea, almost fanatic for his age. Sponsered by The Tea Cat.
- Steve Gibson (27), a young bushpilot that dreams of owning a small passenger flight company one day. Sponsered by cyclone 1001.
- Paul Donovan (37), the building material store owner in Valmore and the Playboy of the region, spending more money than he should sometimes. You can find him in a bar somewhere on the weekends. Sponsered by Scott 1964.
- Barbara White (55), who was the Access Biergarten owner before and now owns the big hotel on the beach of the Valmore lake. Sponsered by BarbyW.
- and finally newly arrived Anne Bradley (25), who works for Slye at the moment as a Trucker owning already her own tractor. She just bought a small terrain with a garage just out of town of Phlox and really went into deep debts that she barely pays off. Sponsered by Gringamuyloca.
Ouff, I hope I haven't forgotten anyone......
And of course some other characters of mine that appear and disappear with time.

Now, as you can see, there's quite a few characters, actually there are more than 65,  which I will have to remember with all what they did, where they came from and what they'll be doing in the coming years in the Valley of the Winding River. But I have made some small notes on paper that I keep close by (better not loose those), for when ever I need to be reminded. ;)

Some of these will disappear within a short time, because I will keep only keep those who have still their "Master" around once in a while. I guess some SC4D members have gone during summer and changed their past-time to something else by now. But maybe when a few are gone and some new vivid readers appear, I might create new characters for whatever they wish for.

These "Characters" have shaped and formed the region sofar and will continue to do so, their influence is great and who knows....anything can happen.

Meanwhile. I will keep this MD going from where it stopped, the Ten Rocks in the Venus County, where the Gabbers started a small shortcut road to the eastcoast right through the well known and unmapped Dark Forest area and suddenl;y arrived onto a ....mysterious big roch formation, maybe thousand of years old. This area is close to the Dark Forest region.


tenrocks.....
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg855.imageshack.us%2Fimg855%2F172%2Fwrwfeb14001333823105.jpg&hash=979c26526aa94a76cc4e13099bcb5d62440d8299)


So, let's be entertained.....
Please read the last two or three updates to get back into the story.
I will be back within a week, now that I can relax again for a few months. I just love winter for this here in Canada. ;)

Hope to see most of you (all) back and also see some new faces and readers.

Fred



The Simland Map

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg16.imageshack.us%2Fimg16%2F2665%2Flargesimlandmap.png&hash=8ff5d3d0bc5476560bceac7ff01369550446f189)

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Swordmaster on November 30, 2012, 01:03:53 PM
Fantastic to see you back, Fred. I remember reading the Winding River Project a long time ago, probably when it had just started, but I wasn't very active as a member back then (if at all). I still need to get through most of the thread, which by flicking through it I know will be worth it.

One note, on the region picture: it looks like imageshack has resized it to 800px wide. I should recommend majhost.com for large pictures - it's quite good.


Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: sunv123 on November 30, 2012, 02:01:50 PM
Very surprising to see you back, i like how you included that to "refresh" our memories.

This has always been one of my favorites and it was amazing to see you come back after all that time. :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on November 30, 2012, 06:28:51 PM
Glad to see you both here again.
Thanks Swordmaster,for telling me, I didn't test the link. I fixed the picture upload link above. Now you will be able to see the region in its original size. I changed the browser that I usually use to upload this post and therefor some adjustments of my account weren't saved on it yet, that's why the image was resized to 800x something.

Glad to be back

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Ricky112233 on December 01, 2012, 12:38:05 AM
YES! Finally, you're back! Hope you were still able to enjoy your summer :thumbsup:

Oh and, Happy December 1st everybody! Time to open that first box-thingy and eat that first piece of chocolate!

-Ricky :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rambuckel on December 04, 2012, 03:03:39 PM
My bedtime lecture will be back  &hlp &hlp &hlp I'm really curios about what will happen next :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: eldaldo on December 04, 2012, 04:14:12 PM
I am also glad to see you back.  I love your story and always enjoyed reading each new update.  i can't wait to see more!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on December 09, 2012, 11:03:27 PM
We've been on the edges of our seats for a while now... can't wait to find out more about the 10 rocks!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on December 10, 2012, 07:26:09 AM
Nice to see you back Fred. I have some catching up to do. ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mave94 on December 11, 2012, 12:25:28 PM
Fred/mrbisonm,
I am slowly catching up on the story. I stopped at the point that it was said that the sawmill in Access was sold on page 21.
I like the way you tell the story. It is a good idea to use different colours for the 'general' story and when Charlie is telling the story; that makes it clearer. There are some very interesting things happening. I'm still curious to know who the murder was. ;D If I had the money I will immediately buy a house on the shores of the Grasslake, so I could have a nice and silent place to live.
Perhaps I will think of a character when I'm somewhere in 1967, but before that there is a lot of the story to enjoy still. ()stsfd()

-Matthijs
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 13, 2012, 04:42:25 PM
Quote from: mave94 on December 11, 2012, 12:25:28 PM
Fred/mrbisonm,
I am slowly catching up on the story. I stopped at the point that it was said that the sawmill in Access was sold on page 21.
I like the way you tell the story. It is a good idea to use different colours for the 'general' story and when Charlie is telling the story; that makes it clearer. There are some very interesting things happening. I'm still curious to know who the murder was. ;D If I had the money I will immediately buy a house on the shores of the Grasslake, so I could have a nice and silent place to live.
Perhaps I will think of a character when I'm somewhere in 1967, but before that there is a lot of the story to enjoy still. ()stsfd()

-Matthijs

Sold the sawmill? Nah, Slye moved it to Phlox, where it is today and soon it will have a railway attachment to deliver his products to Beecherfalls, the harbour town. Rails are already laid.
Oh yeah, I remember that murder, it was the first in Access. I think it will be next year (1968) when the murderer will be released from the Lakestead  Federal Prison.
Glad to have you with us mave94.

Thank you guys, the next update will be this weekend. It will talk about the Ten Rocks, the highway, the airport and the rails and of course a little about some of our "heroes". ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on December 13, 2012, 11:45:52 PM
Hey! A post from Fred! Thanks for the update and looking forward to seeing the story continue.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on December 14, 2012, 01:29:07 PM
glad to see you more active again Fred :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 15, 2012, 06:22:02 PM
UPDATE 86




October 23 rd, 1967

10:15 hrs AM

phone ringing.......

<< "Gabber Constructions, Access Center, good morning", the secretary, Debbie, of the Gabber Office in Access Center answers the phone.

86.01
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg339.imageshack.us%2Fimg339%2F6970%2F8601.jpg&hash=55beeeb5c3fa819ef5a0484a1adb3dc563f9d0e7)

A low voice politely asked: "Could I please talk to Mr Gabber?". "I am sorry, but Mr Gabber is on vacation for the week, can I help you?", the secretary said. The low voice continued, "Well, is Mr Allheimer available then?" the man continued. "Sorry , but Mr Allheimer is with Mr Gabber on a fishing trip on the eastcoast". The secretary announced.
Five seconds of silence.
"Ok then please tell Mr Gabber that Mr Willard Deforge from the Simland's History Commission in Lakestead has called to tell him that the site with the ten rocks will be to be considered as an important historical find and we would like to have it announced publically with his name as the official discoverer. We need to have his permission. If it is possible could you please inform him of this matter as soon as possible, since we would like to announce it to the public this week." the man from the historical office explained." After the secretary confirmed that Mr Gabber will receive the message at the latest by tonight, she left a message at the moteldesk where John and Mike are staying.>>

John is in Winding River Outlet with Mike, a small and new town on the eastcoast, fishing the seas during this calm and beautiful week of late automn. Calling in the evening from the motel in Windning River Outlet, and he told Debbie, his secretary, that he will meet her at the Midway Restaurant in Access for lunch at 11:30 hrs. It is only 20 Minutes away by hydroplane.

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Just a little side note about The Winding River Oulet region, which is actually the end of the Winding River that flows here into the ocean on the eastcoast. The river produced a few islands at its mouth with its some thousand years of existance and which is a region well known for its richness of fish, crabs and oysters. Below is the Simland picture to see where this region is exactly located compared to all the others that we talk about in this MD.

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The little town of WR Outlet or called officially, Radler's Outlet, is partially on the mainland and the other half on the first island to the east. It is a town of approximately 11,000 Sims and it was established right after the second world war finished, around 1946, and when German U-Boats stopped surveying and menacing the eastcoast of Simland. It is actually a very new town, the Baby of Simland. Today, around twenty years later, it mostly lives from fishing and some agriculture. We will visit the region in more details when we continue our regular Simland Region visits.

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When John and his secretary met at the restaurant in Access Center, they discussed the matter of yesterday's call ,and John told Debbie to call Deforge back and tell him to announce the names of the two Loggers, his foreman Al Baumer and his company's name as the finders of the ten rocks on Wimmer Road, and that he himself has nothing to do with finding or discovering the historical site at all. "Get that all cleared up, Debbie", he said. To John, the matter was closed.

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Later that week, still on his week off, John wanted to see if things were alright on the Wimmer construction site and he went to see where the road has come to now. While driving by the ten rock site, he noticed that the whole area was already fenced in and a gate was installed which seemed to be locked. Wow, he thought, that was a quick fencing job.
At the end of the Wimmer Road, he met Al Baumer, his foreman on this project. Telling Al that he was surprised to see the area of the rocks already fenced in, Al told him that it was done the next day with the help from the army. It took them 6 hrs to do the job. John's jaw dropped. Then after a few seconds Baumer said with a smile on his face that he would like to have workers like this, and how they proceeded to build the fences and continued with telling that two guys in white overalls went over the entire site with a "Geiger Counter" or something like this, especially concentrating on and around the rocks.
Then Baumer explained the construction of the Wimmer road in all details, everything that has been encountered and that they found and keep on finding small strange marked and engraved rocks and stones here and there,  and which were set aside for the archeologists to see. John wasn't surprised that they found other "stuff" that is affiliated to the ten rock site and added again with a smile. " If it continues likes this, we will end up finding Atlantis.....lol". Al laughed and said that we're not alone anymore in this region, the region was conquered before us it seems.

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Then John drove to the highway construction site and see where they are now. The site is only a few miles away from the Wimmer road intersection.
There John met with Alex Puto.
<<"What the heck are you doing here?" John asked being surprised to see Alex on the job far from the bridges, as Alex's job is Project Manager and Engineer for bridges and seeing him on the highway is quite a surprise to John." Didn't you know that Mike asked me to take his job during his week off? Someone has to take care of these workers while he's gone, right?" Alex answered John's question.
"Yeah, you're right, forgot about that." was John's answer.
"By the way, aren't you supposed to be somewhere on the sea and fishing your brains out?" Alex asked with a smile on his face.
"Well yes, but the office called me for some important stuff with those ten rocks. I go back this afternoon, Mike is unpatiently waiting, but I guess that he's just snoring his day away in the motel as much as I know him." John told Alex.>>

John drove back to Grasslake where his cottage is located and his hydroplane waiting for him to fly back to the motel in Radler's Outlet. 

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In Phlox the rails for the new railways that Slye has planned to ship his finished sawmill products to Beecherfalls have been connected with the regional rails. Now T.S. only needs a train and some openflat wagons to start delivering the planks to the City. His contract with the greatest Building material Supplier in Simland starts on January 1st, which is only a little over than 2 months from now.

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In Access, on the airport district, Steve Gibson, our bushpilot, has been busy with his bushpilot buissness and only a few months ago he has built himself an office and some space in the airport area and finally opened a new Company, Gibson Air. Now, just yesterday, he ordered a small transit airplane for passenger service from Access to Lakefield and Beecherfalls. With help from Guy Racsan, Steve got a good price on his first small jetengine plane, which jetmotors come from KECO, a Racsan company right here on the spot of the airport. Gibson can't wait to take his flying lessons for his first run with a jetengine plane. The plane will arrive in a month, just in time for christmas.

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In the last minutes, the Radio of Access announced that the son of John Gabber, William (second youngest), was saved from a terrible car accident in Lakefield's harbour. He got away with no injuries but a broken image of himself. He got stuck with his foot between the gaspedal and the transmission wall, when trying to show some friends in the harbour how powerful his pick-up was. He went right over the seawalls, "breaking a new record".......

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Well, I'm back with a very little different approach, using a little of TS2 screenshots also, but the same story....and Hohhh, I'm out of practise, it took me 6 hrs to make the pictures right looking. (I mean placing and plopping and growing things in the game)
For today, that's it, my first update this fall. Hope you all liked it and soon I will be fully back into the story, maybe even start clearing up some older myths and mysteries. Btw, what were those fellows in white overalls doing at Ten rocks and who were they? Testing or looking for what?.......I wonder......Anyone has an idea? Let's hear your suggestions and explanations. Have a nice weekend ;)



Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Schulmanator on December 15, 2012, 07:08:18 PM
An entertaining update with great pix and story. Now it would be sad but true to say I know someone who did the same thing with a truck but for a slightly different reason. Though the water wasn't quite so clear. But this friend of mine doesn't take bets anymore!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 15, 2012, 08:12:05 PM
Quote from: Schulmanator on December 15, 2012, 07:08:18 PM
An entertaining update with great pix and story. Now it would be sad but true to say I know someone who did the same thing with a truck but for a slightly different reason. Though the water wasn't quite so clear. But this friend of mine doesn't take bets anymore!

Well, you know what they say, Schulmanator, there's a little bit of reality in every story. I also know someone who had a similar "accident". It wasn't a harbour, but a lake and it was clear, but it was for the same reasons. Today he doesn't "show off" anymore. ;)
Thanks for dropping in. 

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rambuckel on December 16, 2012, 06:18:48 AM
I'm sure I'll have a great bedtime lecture tonight!!!!! I'm really looking forward to read it!

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Cyclone1001 on December 16, 2012, 06:24:31 AM
Very good update, its great to see this story continue.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on December 16, 2012, 06:44:10 AM
Some nice pictures there! And great continuation of the story.
Looking forward to the next update... ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: sunv123 on December 16, 2012, 07:07:32 AM
Interesting use of the Sims..... :D

It great to see that you have not given up on this. :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on December 18, 2012, 09:46:59 AM
You really do know how to tell a story Fred. Amazing work. ;)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on December 22, 2012, 05:47:39 AM
Thank You for coming and leaving a comment. It is always appreciated and also confirms that the MD is still read and enjoyed.


Update 87

Friday, October 27th, 1967


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It was time for Mike to gather all his friends to John Gabber's mainoffice in Access Center, one of the safest places to discuss his secret matter.
As we know already, Mike had plans to "invade" the armybase and get to the bottom of what all the mysteries are about West River earlier this year. He is ready , and he needs some help now.
He has been planning the intrusion of the armybase in every detail since this spring and now it is time to present it to his gang, that had already been there a few years ago.
Since Mike has been a part of the French invasion in 1945 and together with John, they were special infiltration specialists, his plan was very detailed and well organized.

<<" That's it", he said once sat down on the right side of John's desk, "I'm ready to go and see what is going on in West River's army base."
Everyone was silent for a few seconds and everyone knows since this spring that Mike has intentions to uncover the secrets of the strange buildings on the base, then John had a go,
"You sure you know what you're putting your nose in. right?."
"Yeap" knodding positively his head."I'm readymore than ever."
"You know that you're not 25 years anymore like when we were stationed in France, right?" John continued.
"You know that I have been physically training since June and I think that morally, mentally and physically, I am in top shape now and it is time to find out the truth about the West River installations. Ever since they found my two dead highwayworkers and then ridiculously shut off the area as if they didn't want us to know what's going on, making us believe that the Porolium gas is at a dangerous level, and then pn top of that came up with those stupid other explanations, I have been having nightmares of this, just like all of you, and now is the time to go and put an end to this. I want to know." Mike explained.
"I guess now you want some outside help with that." Alex asked looking at everyone else's reaction to his words.
" Yep, I need a ride to go and another one to pick me up, plus some other preparations and I also need some stuff.", looking at Alex,
"Your girlfriend has some diving equipment you told me earlier this summer, do you think you would be able to get it for me?" Mike continued.
"I guess, I will ask her and tell her it's for a friend that wants to go see the underwater world at the coast. No problem." Alex answered.
" Me and John have most of the other equipment that I will need for the trip, but I will need a few more things from Al and Slye," looking at both of them. Both nodded positively their head and announced they were ready to help.>>

So Mike started telling his plans in every detail, that he will be entering the base through the river once again, but this time underwater. He will then try to work up his way to the strange double towers and se how it is possible to enter them without getting caught. As a specialist in this situation, Mike will probably stay on the base for a day or two and see how everything is organized, especially the security at the buildings and underground entries. Once this known he will decide whether or not, at this time. to go for it. If not he will come out and plan his next step first. Al Baumer with his advanced fifty years said that he wishes that he was ten years younger and let everyone know that he envied Mike for his plans. Then Mike announced the date, the week before christmas, when most of the base is quiet.
John, having been a special infiltration agent also during the war, was strongly against the dat and suggested the last week of november, where the base is still very active and someone like Mike could easily disappear in the crowd, while the last week before christmas seemed to be more risky since every suspect could be more easily remarked and identified. The date was changed and all agreed on November 28th, 1967.

Their private discussion went on for more than an hour and after things were clear for everyone and all questions were answered, John invited all of them for lunch at Barbies Biergarten and Mainstreety corner. That sounded good on this Thursday.

Now let's go and look around town and the region a little bit, something we haven't done for quite a while. The four towers, as they call the new  first Hi-risers in Access' downtown, have been finished in the last weeks, although no office really moved in yet, the buildings seemed to be ready for their use. The interior will still take a few months and it was said to be finally ready before springs arrives next year when thousands of new office workers will invade downtown Access.

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These office buildings are of the very newest architecture ever seen in Simland. Shining all their splender, they rise high above all the others buildinbgs of the town and don't seem to fit in this environment yet. What offices they will exactly house, we don't know yet, or let's say that it hasn't publically not been announced yet. All it was said, that offices like governmental, financial and directional will be the most needed ones and since Access and the Winding River has some very important development coming, concerning the industrial manufacturing and refining, the town will indeed need the offices for the companies that are being established here. The Johnny B.Badd's Laundry buissness just on the side of these Hi-Risers, seems so small now compared to these futuristic giants of steel, glass and concrete. Even once the highest building of the downtown area, the Wellington Office, somehow disappeared from the view of these towers. The looks of the area that once was housing the first big shopping Mall is forever gone. The town of Access is growing and it shows....

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Here is a picture of what the area looked like last fall and earlier this year.

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Not far to the west, Mayor Bartlett has again problems with his garbage disposals. Empty space is seriously running out, something never thought before. Specialists from Lakestead said that it is a matter of one and a half to two years before the site will be totally filled up. And besides this, some folks nearby already complained about the flies in the summer and the smell that comes along when the wind strikes heavily from the west. An important sum as a budget for the study of this problem was released by the the council of the town. A solution has to be found before it is too late.

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And while we are in the area, a picture of the Fingerlake Dam, that brings the town all their drinking water and electricity shows that the lake is dangerously low for this time of the year, maybe because of the growing municipality's demand for water and power, maybe because of the unusual dry summer they had or maybe because a combination of both. Mayor Bartlett gave the order to some investigators to find a source to produce more power and a supplementary source of freshwater for the future years to come. With the new industrial projects coming to the area in a year, water in big quantity is badly needed.

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On the other side of the mighty Winding River within Phlox's limits, some land was zoned industrial because of a great demand for industrial space in the area. Ever since they think that the river can be tamed for shiptravel up to Access and further one day, industries of all kinds are very interested in investing in a piece of land near the river. The biggest terrain was already reserved for Palmer Coal Industries from Reverant, because for the future, Palmer is very interested in an open coaling mine near the eastern Stoke Mountains and it needs a place where tostore and ship their product, pure coal. It is all a matter of the leasing of the land from the government and the righful paperwork for the years to come. Something that could bring thousands of jobs to the valley.

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From the birdseye view, we can easily understand why this area for industrial growth was chosen. Close to the river and the highway, the transport of the finished products will be easyily managed.

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The Minister of National Waterways has been discussing the matter of opening the Winding River to shiptraffic since four years now, and starting next year, a more intense study will start to see if the river is deep and safe enough to receive bigger ships. Some parts of the river are shallower than others and also cause some inondations downriver during the snowmelt in the mountains or heavy thunder and rainstorms. Digging these out deeper could also help the passing of larger ships. Not many rivers in Simland are navigatable far into the land and not many are as big as the Winding River, where the water flow never decreases. The river drains a whole mountainchain in the west. There's one specific spot on the Winding River inside the valley, near the Brick County, that has shallow waters caused by the accumulation of rocks, gravel, sand and debris with the years. A good fishing spot though, but not so good for navigation.

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Only the Winding River is on more stable flatlands while the northern Duck River, also a fairly big river that starts on the Reverant lake and empties into the seas at Frampton, has a few torrent waterfalls and rapids where the groundlevels vary as much as 380 feet on a length of only 1000 feet, which means a bigger installation of hydrolic Locks will be necessary. And that is on several locations of the river like this. The slow flow of the Winding River though is very welcomed for shiptravel.
As seen on the picture below, we understand that the opening of the Winding River would be a lot more interesting for Simland than spending millions of simoleons on the Duckriver's Locks. If this is possible, then the ships may go right straight to Lakefield, the Capitol and the second biggest city of Simland.

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Back again to Access Center, we haven't been to the Fingerlake residential project lately, which has enormously changed. They were able to add more than 500 new homes around the lake by now, all at a very expensive price, and these taxes are improving the Town's budget by several levels, which will surely help to improve the garbage, water and drainage problems. There is even a small commercial area that has itself developped to supply the citizens with their daily needs. Access Center has reached its 150,000 population mark in last September, which means that the whole region now is up to 190,000 or so.

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Some citizens of the hew delopments above the lake have lately started to complain about a foul smell rising the hills from the lower fingerlake's swamp, now left at even lower waterlevels and slowly heating up with the last warm automn's sunrays. The little bay almost dries up completely if the lake's level lowers another few feet.

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A close look at the little swampy bay shows the trees that were left behind when the dam raised the water and flooded the area several years ago.

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And finally a last look at the changed downtown area of Access Center. The town that is slowly growing out of its limits. What we actually see here is about 30% of the whole town, which is spred over four different city tiles, but it is the most importyant part of the town.

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That's it again for this week. When we come back, we have another look at Access and its region, but also enter the Dark Forest with the construction of the Wimmer road. Baumer complains that his measuring instruments don't function properly anymore. He needs those instruments to work properly to be able to keep his road construction in line...........

Have a Merry Christmas Everyone, don't hurt small animals and don't do what I wouldn't do, ok? Have fun, enjoy yourselves and make sure to be here in one piece when we continue the story of the Winding River Project.

Fred

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Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Swordmaster on December 22, 2012, 06:12:51 AM
Thank you Fred. I enjoyed this update, especially the scenes of nature at the end. The last picture shows how good you are at integrating nature and buildings.

Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: bat on December 22, 2012, 08:54:34 AM
Nice new update there! And the Fingerlake is looking great!! :thumbsup:
Great work on this part of your region.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on December 22, 2012, 03:30:55 PM
Never disappoint. ;) Wonderful job!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: sunv123 on December 25, 2012, 04:29:25 PM
Ughhhh, not more sims! :'( :P $%Grinno$%

The downtown looks okay, could need a better transition though, looks kinda steep. Good job with finger lake. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rambuckel on December 29, 2012, 03:13:12 PM
Two brilliant updates! Interesting to see the mixture of SC4 and the Sims. I hope you had a wonderful time during christmas!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on January 10, 2013, 09:19:43 PM
Wow, our little hamlet has grown up!  Great work!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: NASCAR_Guy on January 14, 2013, 04:05:35 PM
Wonderful updates fred,cant wait for more :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lynncanox on January 16, 2013, 10:53:28 AM
 Hi,

I had very difficult time finding this thread of mrb because I have not been on this site for a long time. I did not find the other threads from him, but maybe everybody comes here sometimes.
Hi, for those who do not know me, I am Lynn, mrbison's (Fred's) wife.

Fred asked me to inform you that he did not forget you, this City Journal, his model makings and the work together with a certain Frank, I think it was farm models that they are making together.

Since Christmas he has been very sick and at his age, it does not help. He has a very bad case of influenza and pneumonia and because he is cardiac, diabetic and asthmatic, he has very big problems to recover. He is right now in the hospital since 9 days and will not come out this week, what his doctor told. Do not worry, he is ok.

I hope you understand this and you will be a little patient for now. He will soon come back.

Please excuse my english, I am frenchcanadien.

Regards,
     Lynn
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rooker1 on January 16, 2013, 10:57:32 AM
Sorry to hear...Best wishes and a speedy recovery.

Robin
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lynncanox on January 16, 2013, 10:59:22 AM
  Sorry, I do not know how to change or add words in my post earlier, but I would like to let you know that he has access to internet in his room, but not in very good condition everyday to write. He sleep most of the time.

Thank You

          Lynn
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on January 16, 2013, 11:09:31 AM
Well sleep is probably the best thing for his recovery right now. Thanks for the post Lynn. It's good to hear from you again, unfortunately it couldn't be under better circumstances. The flu that has been going around these days sounds like it is heavy-duty. Keep us posted. Get well soon Fred.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: M4346 on January 16, 2013, 11:44:08 AM
Please send my regards and well wishes for a speedy recovery.

Fred's health is of the utmost importance, and he needs his rest.

Thank you very much for the message Lynn, and all the best to both of you.

Marius
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rambuckel on January 16, 2013, 01:59:02 PM
Thanks for your posts, Lynn! Please send my best wishes for a speedy recovery as well!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jmyers2043 on January 16, 2013, 07:03:56 PM
Thank you Lynn for the update. Get Well Soon Fred !!

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fileden.com%2Ffiles%2F2007%2F7%2F4%2F1237795%2Fgetwell.jpg&hash=ace49dec0e142d7e2a1b2b99c69dec08722ae181)

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Swordmaster on January 17, 2013, 11:42:21 PM
Don't worry Fred, we have all the patience of the world. It's much more important you get better first. Take it easy!

Thanks for posting, Lynn!



Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on January 20, 2013, 05:29:58 PM
I too wish him a speedy recovery, he is much loved here. :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on January 21, 2013, 03:28:13 AM
Hi Lynn and Fred,

I am this certain "Frank" and I was indeed wondering what the reason was for the silence.
Now I know.

I am sorry to hear Fred is that ill that he is even in the hospital.
There is nothing we can do but wait and hope. And that is what I will do. It's a pity that I cannot do more than that, because Fred became kind of a friend to me since we work together on the Dutch Farms Project.

So please tell Fred that I wish him all the best and a good recovery (which is not always the same as a speedy recovery...). And I also wish you good luck that your husband will be OK. You will certainly miss his presence more than we do.

And the project will be postponed until Fred feels OK enough to continue it.

Frank
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: noahclem on January 23, 2013, 05:09:08 AM
My best wishes for a speedy recovery Fred! I hope things are going well and thanks for informing us of the situation Lynn. Take care  :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lynncanox on January 23, 2013, 11:32:21 AM
  Hi again,

   Fred told me this morning to leave a little message here that he is doing a little better now. He has a heavy influenza with an infection on both lung sides (pneumonie) and a dangerous infection of the 'corde vocale'. (vocal cord?). He cannot really speak at this moment, but his eyes are very alive.lol

  The docteur say that he may come back home this weekend maybe, if not, it will be on next monday. He says hello to everybody on this site and is eager to come back and play with you.

  Thank you for all the wishes. I told him about.

   Regards,

   Lynn
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: wouanagaine on January 23, 2013, 11:54:53 AM
Merci pour les news,

Je lui souhaite un prompt et bon rétablissement !
J'espere qu'il va pas être aphone trop longtemps et surtout qu'il reste au repos pour te revenir en pleine forme



Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Serkanner on January 23, 2013, 01:07:19 PM
I hope you get well soon Fred.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: jeronij on January 23, 2013, 02:56:22 PM
Quote from: wouanagaine on January 23, 2013, 11:54:53 AM
Merci pour les news,

Je lui souhaite un prompt et bon rétablissement !
J'espere qu'il va pas être aphone trop longtemps et surtout qu'il reste au repos pour te revenir en pleine forme

I Second this :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rambuckel on January 23, 2013, 03:16:18 PM
Sometimes things improve even faster when you're at home. So I hope you can go home as fast as possible.

I still wish you a speedy but especially a thorough recovery ... take care!

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: red_dwarfers on January 27, 2013, 01:56:30 PM
Fred and Lynn, wishing you all the best from England. I would offer you some English tea and biscuits (that fixes lots of things!) but they would go cold and soft by the time they got to you!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: lynncanox on January 28, 2013, 01:47:18 PM

Hi,

Thank You so much everybody for the wishes to Fred to get better. At Home Fred is  now. He came out of the hospital as planned this morning, was he ever impatient, and the first thing he did when he entered our home is ask for a *real*  coffee and then go to bed.

He said that he didn't sleep for the last two weeks  because of all the *old* people complaining and whimmering in the hospital all night long. He himself is in his sixties, but it seems that he forget this all the time. lol.

For the next day or maybe two days I think he will sleep first before coming to the computer, but I am sure that it will be very soon enough.

Greetings from both of us,

  Lynn
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: red_dwarfers on January 28, 2013, 02:16:48 PM
Glad to hear he is home and can sleep in peace with real coffee!

I think the phrase 'you're only as old as you feel' works here, still in his 30s do you think :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rambuckel on January 28, 2013, 02:48:17 PM
That's really good news! My grandmother, a brilliant doctor, always told us: Sleep is the best cure for almost everything! So I hope you enjoyed your "real" coffee and that you'll sleep well! And once more best wishes for your recovery! - Theresa
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Swordmaster on January 28, 2013, 02:59:25 PM
Thanks for keeping us posted Lynn. I'm looking forward to hearing from Fred again, when he's rested.


Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on January 28, 2013, 03:13:37 PM
The coffee is a good sign. Glad to hear he's home Lynn. Thanks for keeping us posted.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on January 29, 2013, 02:03:02 AM
Hi Lynn and Fred,

It's good to hear you are at home again! No snoring, no gibbering, no mumbling around you. And a good bed and real coffee from someone who loves you. That's the best place to be.
And someone in his sixties is not considered really old, these days, isn't it? Especially not when you are as lively as Fred appears to be on this site (and several others).

Anyway, I hope you will be OK soon. I am waiting for you!

Frank
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: M4346 on January 29, 2013, 02:42:35 AM
That is great news! ;D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on January 29, 2013, 06:41:02 AM
Haha just like Fred. I'm glad he's feeling a bit better. :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 02, 2013, 01:45:26 PM
Well, here I am again, somewhat weak, but improving from day to day.

I never thought that one could become so sick because of a simple running nose. I was never sick like this before, even when I had my heart attack in 2003 and streptococcus Type A Severe in 1997.

A little cold ended up in a influenza infection, which created a double lung infection (pneumonia) and then later in a difficult vocal cord infecation. I still cannot speak, only whisper. Of course Lynn loves that part. ;)

I will soon be back on my feet and continue what I started, including this diary and of course the farming project with FrankU. Btw, Frank, you will hear from me soon, and don't worry, I have already started that 1x1 growable greenhouse model, a picture of the started model will be soon send to you.

Now, Thank you all for the nice encouragements and whishes that you have written. Thanks to Lynn for having been my "Ambassador" while I was sick in bed.

Thanks for the encouragements.

Fred

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg248.imageshack.us%2Fimg248%2F5372%2Fiwillbebacksoon.jpg&hash=48ca7618b8b57dcecb6ff5a78833faa7457ba31d)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: vortext on February 02, 2013, 01:56:31 PM
Good to see you around again Fred! Hope you'll be up and running talking soon!  :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 02, 2013, 02:06:12 PM
Quote from: vortext on February 02, 2013, 01:56:31 PM
Good to see you around again Fred! Hope you'll be up and running talking soon!  :)

lol.... running is not really a problem.....I feel strong enough to run for a 100 yards or so already, but talking....hm...It doesn't really matter since I can communicate with you folks, but sometimes I would like to have "my word" with Lynn also.... ;)

fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rambuckel on February 02, 2013, 02:23:21 PM
Great to see you around again, Fred! And there's this saying ... I don't know if it exists in English ... Talking is silver, silence is golden :) But nevertheless I hope your voice'll come back pretty soon so that you can have a word and not a whispering with Lynn ;)

Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on February 02, 2013, 11:17:51 PM
Hello and welcome back Fred!

I was just considering to upload my farm fields without the greenhouses, but maybe I'll wait a bit yet?
It wouldn't be a problem though. A special farm field could always be put into the farm lots pack.

Anyway, that's business talk. I wish you a steady recovery and the return of your vioce. It can be very frustrating when people cannot hear you.

See you soon and have fun.

Frank
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on February 03, 2013, 01:05:31 AM
Good to see you back around again Fred. That virus that went around knocked a few exceptionally healthy people I know out-of-commission for at least a week, so it was nothing to mess around with. Good to hear you're getting back to normal.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on February 03, 2013, 07:27:41 AM
Thanks rambuckel and Matt. I will be ok soon enough.
FrankU, the growable greenhouse model should be ready to test by next weekend. Still have some minor transparency problems, nothing important though.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: FrankU on February 03, 2013, 10:15:07 AM
Ah, OK, so that might mean that the Farms Set is due to arrive on a LEX near you soon!
Of course the scrutineers need some time to check and approve everything before it will show up.

But don't rush! Other things might be more important, like your health and maybe some delayed quality time with Lynn and other relatives and friends. They are more important than my pathetic lot and desc files!

Get well soon!

Frank
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Swordmaster on February 03, 2013, 10:35:32 AM
Good to see you back Fred. Keep well!


Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on February 03, 2013, 06:08:45 PM
Well, I'm sure glad you're starting to feel better man. Keep on getting well. :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: luizpaulo on April 08, 2013, 11:55:17 AM
This is the best diary in SC4 IMO.

Congratulations!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: luizpaulo on April 08, 2013, 11:57:17 AM
This is the best diary in SC4 IMO.

Congratulations!!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 09, 2013, 09:00:06 AM
Ok,

I was originally going to continue this MD/CJ after I was sick for several months, but at this moment, I have decided to put the "Winding River Project" on a temporary Hold for the summer. I have been putting it aside and aside again and now is the time to decide.

There are several reasons for this. First of all, I am about to finish my MFP1 (modern farm props) Project. I would like to do it this late spring to early summer. You will see this in the FrankU and Nexis Co-Op Thread. Then I also have dug out some older BATs that I started several years ago, and I would like to finish them too. They will be shown in my "Nexis Works" thread. And last, I have found on my dozens of burnt gmax DVD's, about 100 or so other BAT ideas that I started, and that I would like to continue, most for my MD/CJ and some to upload.

I guess that there is enough reason to put this MD on the side for a short time. Also I have seen a big decline of readers and interested members to this Dairy, maybe it's because another summer started or because there is simply not enough interest in this. We'll see it this fall when I start again.
I should be back sometime around October to November with dozens of new BATs, ideas and stories. We will simply take off exactly where we finished and hopefully it will get a little more visits than before, when it seemed to have been dying off a little this late winter and early spring. With 50 to 100 new BATs, it should become quite interesting again.

Next winter I will also open another MD, either here or elsewhere, but not the same as the Winding River. There will be no story nor interacting. I will simply show a region that I have been playing on regularily for the last 9 years. It has so much to see, experiments of all kinds. The region of more than 9 Million Sims is unique and many tutorials and modding will be given to experiment with, some probably never seen before. 9 years of SC4 experience has been added to that region, having changed with time, mods, BATs, LOTs and downloads over the years.

But first, I have to finish the MFP1 and show that SC4 is way more interesting and expandable than SC2013.

I hope that you are not disappointed with my decision. I promiss when I come back, it will be worth to follow "The Winding River Project" again. Meanwhile come see my creations on my Nexis Works thread or on the FrankU and Nexis Co-Op thread, here on SC4D. Thanks for understanding. ;)

Have a nice summer ye all and hey.....if you didn't have time to catch up on this MD, here's your chance, you have a summer's time to read it. ;)

Have a nice summer now...

Fred



We will be back.....
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: threestooges on June 09, 2013, 01:07:33 PM
We'll be waiting.
-Matt
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: rooker1 on June 09, 2013, 01:49:06 PM
I agree with Matt. We'll be here and waiting to see all this new stuff.
Take care.
Robin
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on June 09, 2013, 09:04:15 PM
Thanks guys... ;)

Edit: .....a couple of weeks later......lol....at least two loyals. Thanks rooker1 and threestooges for hanging in there. ;)

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: CabraBuitre on July 01, 2013, 09:19:12 PM
Quote from: mrbisonm on June 09, 2013, 09:04:15 PM
Thanks guys... ;)

Edit: .....a couple of weeks later......lol....at least two loyals. Thanks rooker1 and threestooges for hanging in there. ;)

Fred

There's more of us around still... if only occasionally!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KoV Liberty on July 02, 2013, 08:52:03 AM
I'm still here too! :)
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: vester on July 02, 2013, 10:38:34 AM
Looking forward to new stuff as well.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Swordmaster on July 04, 2013, 12:37:28 AM
Take your time Fred. Have a great summer!


Cheers
Willy
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: Ricky112233 on July 04, 2013, 07:41:11 AM
No need to rush--We can be patient :P

-Ricky :thumbsup:
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: KevinPaul06 on July 05, 2013, 01:41:33 AM
Can I ask? What kind of mods is he using to make those river and lakes look like that? Thanks
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on July 05, 2013, 08:05:04 AM
Thanks folks,

some more fans are still around, good to know, thanks for coming forward.

Quote from: KevinPaul06 on July 05, 2013, 01:41:33 AM
Can I ask? What kind of mods is he using to make those river and lakes look like that? Thanks

I can't tell you where I got it from, or who made this watermod, but the file is called *DarkBlueishGreenish* that makes my water of this colour and texture. Maybe someone else on the *Where can I find* thread might know it. ;) Ask for it, Good luck.

mrb
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: red_dwarfers on April 12, 2015, 03:07:53 PM
I've just finished reading through your Winding River MD again, its fantastic!
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 12, 2015, 08:53:42 PM
Quote from: red_dwarfers on April 12, 2015, 03:07:53 PM
I've just finished reading through your Winding River MD again, its fantastic!

Well Thank You, appreciate it.
I should be back on this MD later this year, I am still working on my farmbuildings project, the MFP 1.

Glad you liked it, I have some big plans and stories for it, plus about 500 new props and Lots to go along with the story of the Winding River Project.

Check it out this fall.

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: cowcorn on April 16, 2015, 12:53:06 PM
Very glad to have news from you. Can't wait to see what you come up with you projects.
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 16, 2015, 06:07:40 PM
Quote from: cowcorn on April 16, 2015, 12:53:06 PM
Very glad to have news from you. Can't wait to see what you come up with you projects.

Hey, long time no see, cowcorn, haven't seen you since Nexis Of Genesis. Glad to hear from you again. Still living in Cowansville or Sherbrooke?

This is what I am working on since a long time, almost finished though, should be ready within 2 to 3 weeks max.

http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=14150.560

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: reddonquixote on April 18, 2015, 12:10:05 AM
I always love the work you do. The texturing is particularly good... some would say too saturated for SC4? .. but I really like it, and of course the models are so cool... I love tiny versions of real things  :D
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: mrbisonm on April 18, 2015, 12:27:49 AM
Quote from: reddonquixote on April 18, 2015, 12:10:05 AM
I always love the work you do. The texturing is particularly good... some would say too saturated for SC4? .. but I really like it, and of course the models are so cool... I love tiny versions of real things  :D

Thanks reddonquixote, that is encouraging to know. And I like your streetstuff and trees. Good stuff to me. ;) :thumbsup:

Fred
Title: Re: The Winding River Project
Post by: kelis on April 19, 2015, 02:19:23 AM
I can't wait to see what you are doing or what you are going to do. I like all your regions, your development is very good  :thumbsup: