SC4 Devotion Forum Archives

Welcome!
Hope you'll join me in watching Wildcat Junction grow. Come back often, kick off your boots, hang up your spurs and stay awhile. You're always welcome deep in the heart of Texas!

Preface:
Mods: NAM, CAM, CTM, RHM, RMT, BRF tunnel and slope mod (can I buy a vowel?) and a few others like cul-de-sac which are fairly minor and will be obvious to most players.

The Map:
*C 1-1* A fictional landscape hand terraformed and subject to change as game play progresses. It's loosely based on the Texas Gulf (ofMexico) coastline which changes every time a hurricane blows through anyway.

The History: In the Deep South, also known as Dixie in the U.S.A., blind luck and stubbornness came together January 10, 1901, when Anthony F. Lucas struck black gold at a depth of 1,139 feet (347m).

*P-1* For nine days, Spindletop spewed a 15-story plume of oil across the salt domes of Beaumont in the far southeast corner of Texas, ushering in an era of greed, gall and gumption.
Oil companies, owned by speculators known as "wildcatters," sprang up like toadstools after a spring rain.
Lacking computer models, sonar and solid geological data, they trusted their instincts. These men walked a tightrope with immense wealth at the end and a dark pit of bankruptcy underneath.
Yet they maintained a sense of humor.
One of the more colorful traditions of the day was the nickname a man earned if he was accepted as a "Good ol' Boy."
So I wasn't surprised to get a letter from my long-time friend, "Hooter" Hillcrank.

Chapter I:
Hooter, Wimpy, Tightwad and Pokey, the "four musketeers of wildcatting," were at it again. Each of them had inherited an equal share of land near the coast from Shorty Carlson, a vintage wildcatter who was known for taking an interest in the lives of his employees. Even before they had finished grade school, all four of them had worked alongside their fathers, "roughnecks" who drilled the wells and harvested the oil in Shorty's fields. These days, they're known as "rednecks."
Now the guys have put the days of speculation and back-breaking labor behind them and turned their attention to building empires dedicated to themselves.
And they want me to document the development of this new territory they've named "Wildcat Junction."

*C 1-2* So I packed a few necessities and boarded a jet along with my faithful companion, Little Man.

*C 1-3* On the last leg of the journey, I had to catch a commuter flight on one of Hooter's single-engine planes which wasn't much bigger than my bathtub. But I forgot about the cramped conditions when I got my first glimpse of Pitchfork Pass.
*C 1-4a* The next morning, Hooter brought out some photos taken before I arrived. This one shows much of the dredging for the proposed seaport completed, and a bridge spanning the Pitchfork River's mouth from north to south. With I-D jobs plentiful and mobile-home salesmen working 24/7, the population rose quickly from the 2,500 shown here.

*C 1-4b* In this one, there is still much work to be done on the port, but the population has reached nearly 20,000 with most of the workforce still employed in I-D. Schools and health-care facilities soon improved conditions, though.

*C 1-5* After lingering over a southern-style brunch that made the buffet table sag, Hooter suggested we begin by touring the seaport.  He said the population has topped 90,000 now and there are heavy demands for all levels of industrial and commercial jobs as well as housing.

*C 1-6* While we were waiting for the limo, I asked Hooter why he chose to live in the industrial area, and he said, "Quality control!" Guess that explains why there's a pipeline between his mansion and the White Star Brewery behind him.
Wow, what a guy, and he's generous, too! He lets the caretaker live next door free of charge in return for tending and harvesting the apples which are then delivered to the brewery.

*C 1-7a, b & c* We started at the north end of the port, worked our way south and then west to the bridge.

*C 1-8* Hooter explained how the different tanks and processing units are related to the oil business. Interesting I guess, but I was more worried about what would happen if somebody struck a match.

*C 1-9* The Domino Sugar Co. and warehouse was one of the first I-M businesses to set up shop in Pitchfork Pass. Hooter gave them a huge tax break and they let him place a small test facility near the plant. This tiny field is now famous for producing an exceptionally high grade of light sweet crude oil.

*C 1-10* That night, we ended up at Hooter's where a surprise party was held in my honor. I just hope every little detail doesn't make it into the morning paper.

After we sleep it off enjoy a nice long visit and catch up on old times, we'll tour the rest of the north side.

Until next time...
Joan


@ All early birds: Despite countless hours of preparation, I still managed to skew up my long-anticipated debut by clicking on the "Post" button prematurely. (I was aiming for the "Preview" button.) That means a few of you saw a raw and unfinished display and may still be wondering what that crazy old lady is up to now!
Oh well, since I can't undo the past, guess I'll just have to move forward and drag my bruised pride behind me.

@ snickm: Thanks for stopping by. As a native of Houston and 45-year resident of Texas, I know all about the lack of mountains. I was a teenager before I ever saw anything higher than a freeway overpass! The hills in WJ are there only to add some texture to the landscape. Hope you'll be a frequent visitor and excuse the little deviation from reality.

@Adam ( Ennedi): The "early bird" statement above is for you!
Little Man is a 3-year-old Chinese shar-pei. He and his older sister, who is my co-owner, are the offspring of my daughter's dogs.
Thanks for stopping by and I hope you'll continue to do so. BTW, if there's a word or phrase you don't understand, just say so or send a PM. I tend to forget I'm writing for an international audience.

@ figue: Thanks for stopping by. Y'all come back soon, ya' hear!

@ Pat: Thanks for visiting WJ, my friend and hero. Your feedback means a lot to me, so I hope you'll stop by often and enjoy the ride!

@ threestooges: Thanks for your kind comments, and your wait will be over very soon.!

@ BigSlark: I'm honored by your comments. The docks are a product of Peg's CDK3 series. I have the docs which indicate the file is called Peg CDK "The Basics," but I haven't been able to find the link on SimPeg. I'll try and dig a little deeper and PM the results.

@ Alex (Tarkus): Welcome to Pitchfork Pass! This is my first attempt at a seaport, but I figured a city built around the petroleum industry needs a spectacular export facility.
As for the storyline, I enjoy an MD with an interesting thread running through it, especially when it's closely related to the business at hand which is creating a city and region. Hope you like the new update.

@ Shadow Assassin: Thank you for visiting and posting. Keeping in mind that the south port is very much incomplete, where do you see a need for more roads?

@ thundercrack83: Thanks for stopping by. Since I'm kind of new to the MD scene, developments may be as much of a surprise to me as they are to you! :D

@ Dave (tooheys): Thanks for stopping by, my friend and mentor! Yes, Little Man is my beloved 70 pounds of trouble and sweetness.
And thanks for the positive feedback. It means a lot to me.
When I followed your link, I realized I already have the mod installed. I've used the "standard" terrain element since I'm not using a snow-capped mod. Knowing me, I've still done something wrong, though. Any ideas?

@ bat: Thanks for your kind words, and don't give up -- there's a big update on the way.

@ Paul (Paroch):  Hey there, and welcome to WJ. Your positive comments are really appreciated. Starting an MD is pretty scary, but I hope I can keep it going.
In the order listed, the mods are:  Network Addon, Colossus Addon, Columbus Terrain, Rural Highway and Roadtop Mass Transit. I think BRF is just the name of the tunnel/slope mod. Maybe the creators initials. ()what()
Your other question has not been as easy to answer. I'm pretty sure the seaplane airport is a PegProd, but I haven't been able to find it yet, and for the moment it is just eye candy. Although I appear to have the necessary dependencies, it is not functional so I hope to fix it later.
I'll try to track this thing down, though, and let you know.
And LOL, you're absolutely right! Most Texans are more than a little bit crazy, and I do have a horse in the house. It was a gift to my now-7-year-old grandson and will be passed on to his 2-year-old brother this year.
Thanks again for stopping by.

@ Schulmanator: Thanks for the case of bananas. You're a monkey gentleman and a scholar. I'm not too sure the SC4D server can handle six non-opposable thumbs up at one time, but I appreciate the thought. :D Don't be a stranger!

@ stewart_garden: Thanks for posting, and I hope to see you back often.

@ sc4luv2:Glad you stopped by, and I hope it'll be a good MD, too.

@ David (edgren): Wow! It isn't every day the editor drops in for a visit!  :D Thanks so much for stopping by. Texas is a nice place to hang out and I hope you'll come back often, especially when it's 40 below in Alaska! :D

@ tkirch:Howdy, pardner! Thanks for the kind words. If it gets too cold up there in WI, try spending some time in Texas where we have four seasons: hot, hotter, hottest and blistering!

@ All: I am overwhelmed by your support and encouragement. If the DSL server will cooperate for a change, there will be a full update posted this afternoon. Meanwhile, thanks for your patience and if I missed anyone, just try and understand it's been a long night but it doesn't mean you're not appreciated.

Until next time...
Joan

That's a great map.  Of course, we don't have mountains in the real Deep South (Baton Rouge).   ;)  Good luck.

Hello Joan!!!

What a nice surprise! Your MD!  &dance

A nice and intriguing introduction, I love that map in the wooden frame, looking at it I expect many long and strange stories ;)

I don't know Texas history so I think it will be even more fascinating for me
It's a big pleasure for me to visit you here! :thumbsup:

Edit: Hehe, I see you are just adding  new pictures! And there is a rich storyline here, it seems I must come here tomorrow (I have 11.34 PM here in Poland), open the dictionary and work hard on it!
And who is Little Man?

nice start!  :thumbsup:

Joan wow what a wonderful Birthday present indeed.... For making a few mistakes like you told me in a PM i didnt see any at all.... I love the wood frames on your pics and the story is just right....  WOW wonderful hogwild of a ride it was to start with.....  See you next update - pat

Good Story, good pictures, this MD is off to a great start, and I'll be looking forward to the tour of the north side.

Great start, Joan. You've developed some great cities and have started an interesting story.

I can't wait to see where this goes.

Also, what's the seawall/dock lot that has the trucks on it in C1-8? It doesn't look familiar to me and I didn't see it in my overloaded Ports menu.

Cheers,
Kevin

Joan, I'm really glad to see you're starting an MD.  It is really looking fantastic, and I really like what you've done with the port, and how you've nestled the railroad in there with those trees and created a nice buffer zone.  And that backstory is quite entertaining and well-crafted as well. 

Looking forward to seeing more! :)

-Alex

Looks good, but you need more streets in the industrial area.  ;D

Great start here, Joan! I love the ports! I'll be looking forward to seeing how things develop further!

Joan, great to see you finally made the leap, judging by the responses so far I'm sure it hasn't been as painful as you thought. But I will now change that..... only kidding  ;D

Love the photo presentation with the frame and the accompanying story (is that your dog?). :thumbsup:

Thats a challenging way to start, with a port that is. Nicely done. You've got a good mix of props there and have blended them together well.
You seem to have the terraforming worked out pretty well also.  :)

Joan, you know I will be following this with interest and look forward to the next update.

Cheers

Dave


PS: Pic C1-9. The wavey diagonal walls I think can be overcome by this diagonal wall mod. (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?id=15048#) Maybe worth an experiment. I use it and it works fine.

A really great start there, Jmouse! Great work on that city! Looking forward to more...

Hi Joan,

I'm so pleased that you've started your MD.  You are such a great supporter of so many different MDs - you always provide great helpful comments, to me and many others.  I know you will have many followers here at Wildcat Junction.  And what a start you've made  :thumbsup:.

Presentation:  Like the others I love the wooden frames.  Whilst I'm not from the deep south (South of England, maybe ;)) I think it adds to the whole Texas cowboy image you're giving us here.

Storyline:  Very nicely done.  Some lovely touches - I particularly like the mayor's idea of quality control!  It would be unusual to have a mayors residence in an industrial area but you've gone ahead and done it and told us exactly why - it works a treat.  I kind of started with a story in mind on my MD but quickly lost it, so good luck with keeping it going.

Content:  Your pictures look fab.  A mix of region shot, zoom out and zoom in shots of the city - very nice.  But as a dedicated follower of MDs you already know what your audience wants.

Originality:  Very good here too.  As someone said, starting with Industrial and Port settings is unusual and brave and you've pulled it off beautifully!

I do have a couple of questions:  When you list your mods, what are CTM, RHM, RMT and BRF?  And in picture C1-7b, is that a seaplane airport/depot on the right hand side?? Never seen that before, would be interested to know if it acts as an airport or is just eyecandy (and of course where to find it!!)

I'd always been led to believe that Texans were a little crazy and loved their horses and picture C1-2 confirms this, as behind your Little Man, it seems that you have a horse in your house ::).

Nice one Joan, I look forward to more and watching this MD fly.

Paul $%Grinno$%

Zounds! I L &bis& VE it! Anything from Dixie is always welcome - and you have a great story as well. The city is wonderful. 6 thumbs up for this one!

Hi Joan,

I saw that you were planning to start a CJ (Oops, MD) from your posts over at Balnavia and I'm glad that you did.  I enjoyed the first installment and will return for more.  Keep up the good work.

Stewart

I like it, it's purdy good.  ;)

I hope it'll be a good M.D. and end up in the Classics Section (and don't forget it to be the Special Interest of The Month.)

Thanks,
sc4luv2

Joan- Hey!  I can see I'm not getting out enough.  I was wondering where everyone's been at... now I know- over here enjoying this very nice little MD you've started.

It's about time we had a Texas-based Mayor's Diary.

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg405.imageshack.us%2Fimg405%2F3934%2Ftexaslogoru4.png&hash=a5bc871b4359a433022e974b04109fc89ad059f4)

Yee-ha!  Let 'er rip, my friend.

Good luck!


David

Great job and love the stories and pictures.  Your map looks great.  I like how you go with the whole western seem and adding the wood frams add just the right touch.

This has the makings of an instant classic! Detail, great pictures, history, and an amazing sense of humor. Incredible start, and I'm sure it will only get better from here. Great work Joan.

Oops, I goofed and put them in the wrong place. Just scroll up to the first post and you'll find them there.
Mmmm, and did I mention I'm a bit nervous about posting an MD? **trembles violently**

@ nedalezz: Thanks for stopping by and leaving such kind words of encouragement. Your favorable opinion means a great deal to me.



Chapter II:
Although Hooter quit school at age 12 to work in the oil fields, he appreciates the value of education to the younger generation.
Also, he appreciates the taxable value of commercial development and attractive neighborhoods.
So with this in mind, let's continue our tour of the north bank.

*C 2-1* The elementary school is where young Sims learn to speak Southern. For example, vocabulary tests include words like "fixinto." It's all one word and means "going to (do something) right away." "I'm fixinto go shopping" is a common example.

*C 2-2* The next stop was Storybook World Library where patrons are encouraged to enjoy the walking trails, park benches and a gazebo in the great outdoors. Deep Woods OFF towelettes are available for a nominal fee, and less foot traffic inside the building cuts down on housekeeping expenses.

* C 2-3* East of the library is Sunshine Park where patrons find a relaxing pool surrounded by a brick walking trail.

*C 2-4* The high school campus is divided into four parts with an emphasis on agricultural pursuits.

*C 2-4a* The north campus is devoted to FFA and 4-H Club members who learn to raise horses and cows and pigs, oh my! (That's Future Farmers of America and I don't know what the four Hs stand for. Both are very popular RL youth organizations, however, which promote responsible behavior through hard work.)

*C 2-4b* The west campus encourages agricultural pursuits. It features several varieties of corn, cotton and soybeans on the south side, some chili peppers down the middle and a stand of pine trees to the north. Currently students are studying the effects of the dreaded pine bark beetle.

*C 2-4c* A sports facility to the south rounds out the campus.

*C 2-5* Home to the Pitchfork Pass Pigeons football team, the community college takes agriculture to an even higher level by teaching students not to tuck the legs of their jeans inside their boots.
The stadium to the north is a popular gathering place for tailgate parties on Friday night. Today is not Friday.

*C 2-7* It cost Chamber of Commerce President Lucky Chanceman six months and nine cases of 12-year-old scotch to lure Outdoor World to Pitchfork Pass. It was worth the trouble, though.
This sportsman's dream-store features a lake out back where customers can test drive overpriced boats, and a shooting range with animated targets for "great-white-hunter" wannabes.
The vintage logger's shack on the left, faithfully restored, is now a high-priced gourmet diner. If you have to ask how much a slice of Granny's Apple Pie is, you can't afford it.

*C 2-8a* A Wal-Mart Super Center anchors this shopping center on the city's north edge. Immediately west of it is the Pitchfork Pass Beer museum, a travel destination which draws thousands of tourists annually.

(C 2-8b) A bit farther south is Food Lion which feeds the hungry mouths in Pitchfork Pass. A nearby Eckerd's keeps a good supply of chewable antacid tablets on the shelves.

*C 2-9a* Most of the north-side residential development is found along the riverbank west of the bridge. The high school is an informal dividing line between R and C.

*C 2-9b* This northwest development is one of the older neighborhoods and caters to mid-rise apartment dwellers.

*C 2-9c* Although apartments and condos are sprouting up like ragweed in a vacant pasture, there are still a few single-family homes left here and there.

I hope you enjoyed today's tour. The next photo shoot will be on the south bank where I've been told there's a lot more residential development. Also, there are some traffic-data studies underway and the results will be posted ASAP.
Y'all come back now, ya' hear!

*C 2-6* The city hall was designed by famed architect Pegfoot Prodder and constructed under the watchful eye of Howard Easterlich. (Although talented, he wasn't very sociable so he doesn't have a nickname.) Landscaping was provided by Woody Mulcher, a frequent customer at Hooter's.

The missing photo of City Hall.
Sorry about that, but take heart. If I do this long enough, I'll accidentally get something right eventually.

Until I do...
Joan

First, if I may, allow me to offer some assistance with the seaplane thing: it's a creation by Ripptide, part of his CdS thing (Casa del Soliel I believe it stands for) and it's functionality is dependant on a couple of things (the seaplane base can be found here: on the exchange (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=381). BRF are, in fact, his initials (stands for BigRedFish) but from what I can recall, the slope mod is hard to find under that name now. One tha I use (and I think it uses pretty much the same standards) is jeronij's version. It works well.

Now then, on to the update:
It's good to see education is emphasized. I'm guessing the courses also focus on the more elaborate terms (such as widyadidya: "You didn't bring your truck widyadidya?" -from the Foxworthy School). Sunshine park is probably one of the better ponds I've seen with Peg's pieces. The curving strem under the bridge looks natural (well done) and the path around it just adds to the tranquil effect. I like the high school complex, particularly the area of it just to the north of the main building: it all fits so well together. Is it one big lot or a compilation of a few? Your presentation of this MD has been very professional so far. You show a great attention to detail in your pics and the way you prepare them for posting (the wooden frame is a nice touch). Don't worry about the small stuff, for this being your first shot at an MD, it's flowing really nicely so far. I hope you keep this up, the story is entertaining and the pics are well planned.

Joan dont be scared you are doing a fantastic job here hun.... WOW im realling loving Wj.....

I love what you diod with the area around the City Hall.  It looks fantastic!!

Hi Joan,

Wildcat Junction is a very welcoming place.  Your whole approach to this is top rate.  I love the names you make up -  please tell me they are made up "President Lucky Chanceman" has such a great ring to it  ::).

Your pics are great, my favourites being c2-4a (the agri school), c2-7 the sports store and c2-6 the city hall.  Some lovely building put to great work.

I like this place so much I've just named my new city's high school team The Wildcats!

Keep it going  $%Grinno$%

Hey a new game, Find the Replies :D

Update No.2 Joan and you're doing great  :thumbsup:

Nice work with Storybook World with the rural walls but I really like the High School, with the agricultural theme, don't know why I didn't think of that. Have you got a link for the fences you used, (please, pretty please) nicely done  :)  That goes for the shoreline as well.

The avenue intersection in C2-5 caught my attention, thats got to be a nightmare for traffic (but I will wait to see your traffic stats  ;) )

As for the wavey walls, have had another look and it maybe that the walls are just a little too low, perhaps experiment with a slightly higher wall height and see what happens (otherwise, no idea).

Oh, and I like the humour, not something I would try myself but it works well  ::)

Cheers

Dave

Great new shot of that city! Looking forward to more...

As a Southern American (as opposed to South American) I am pleased to see us so well represented!

Or, as we say 'round here: Ya done a right fine job here, Miss Joan!

:thumbsup:

as a south american (as opposed to southern american  ;D) i'd say this is a good way to know you southern americans..

btw, i especially like how you work with the park areas, like the one around the city hall.
you're doing a great job  &apls

Finally a jmouse MD :)
interesting story, nice impressions of the cities so far, nice frames

I hope there will be some nice sea-side mansions at the coast :P

I loved today's tour! Seriously though, you've got a great eye for detail, and I loved the shots of the high school and that relaxing pond. The way you line up the unpaved and paved pathways adds so much depth to your shots. This was a fantastic update.

@threestooges: Thanks for your help with the links. I can remember where some of my plugins came from, but there are many more I've forgotten. (And would you please explain how to do the "linkie" thing as opposed to showing the whole URL?)
Thank you, also, for your kind words, encouragement and patience.The HS ag lot is a compilation of (BSC) Newman Farm Inc. lots found here: http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=962 (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=962). And I love working with the Peg stream and pond pieces. It takes some practice and a lot of bulldozing, but is worth the trouble.
Oh, and, "widyadidya" definitely is a late-fifth-/early-sixth-grade vocabulary word. The first graders concentrate more on the "cha" words like didntcha, dontcha, cantcha, etcha. ;)

@patfirefghtr: You are so good to me – so patient and encouraging! Hope y'all come back soon. :)

@tkirch: Thanks for stopping by, and I'm glad you like the City Hall. :) I enjoy decorating the areas around public buildings. It's a PegProd and I had to wait for weeks while it was in beta testing, but snapped it up ASAP. ::)

@paroch: Welcome to WJ and I'm so glad you like it. Considering your skill, I consider that a great compliment. ()stsfd()
Of the Sims you've read about so far, one is a real person I've never met but heard my dad mention from time to time. Another is the slightly disguised name of my dad's boss for 24 years, and the rest are imaginary. Later, I plan to honor my father and uncle with mayorships.
And good luck to your wildcats! &apls

@tooheys: You've helped me laugh at my own mistakes, and that's a good thing! :D
The traffic study kind of surprised me, but what you'll see is not my normal way of starting out. I don't usually include avenues at first which may explain why I'm a build-it-tonight, blast-it tomorrow kind of player. ::)
The fences were created by kant01 for the Mystic County CJ and can be found here: http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?id=16381 (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?id=16381) Just be sure to read the README to find out which unexpected menu they can be found in.
As for the humor, I've known all along you have no sense of humor at all. You just have somebody there who writes your scripts! :D

@bat: Thanks for stopping by, and y'all come back. :)

@Schulmanator: Thanks for your kind words. You definitely know how to speak Southern, sir, and I expect to see y'all back real soon! :D

@figui: Thanks for stopping by. I appreciate your kind words. You might learn more about Texans than you ever wanted to know here in WJ, but stick around anyway. There's a lot more fun on the menu. :)

@urban: You're in Texas now, m'dear, so there are sure to be some mansions around somewhere. Hooter is more interested in his oil export business, though, so it's likely to be one of the other mayors who goes for the more elegant touch.
Thanks for visiting. :)

@nedalezz: I am honored by your visit. If memory serves me correctly, you were the one who inspired me to rethink the way I plop civic buildings. So now I'm having a ball decorating the grounds.  ;)
I hope you'll be able to make time in your busy schedule to visit often.



The Public Works Department has compiled data gathered in a recent traffic study. It will be formally released to the City Council next week, but I managed to get a sneak peek.
For a city of 97,000+, Pitchfork Pass appears to be moving along rather well.

*TD 1-1* Here's an overview of the transport system as it stands now.


*TD 1-2* Except for a few hot spots on the south bank, traffic is moving pretty smoothly.

*TD 1-3* Overall volume is heavy in some areas, but apparently bottlenecks are not yet a problem.

*TD 1-4* The mass-transit system helps keep auto traffic at an acceptable level.

*TD 1-5* Bus traffic is heavy, but on the north bank, it is the lower avenue which roughly follows the shoreline that gets the most usage. Busses are moving south-bank residents well now, but future development may bring a need for transportation upgrades.

*TD 1-6* These figures came as a big surprise.

*TD 1-7* Other than some sharp spikes during very early stages of development, commute times have remained fairly steady.

*Just for fun* This looks like a fishing boat or tug boat which appears from time to time followed by some kind of yellow floats. It's a mystery vessel which doesn't seem to be a part of any waterfront lot, and I've never seen it dock anywhere. I've been trying to get a photo of it, but it disappears so fast that it's usually gone by the time I turn off the grid. (That's my excuse and I'm sticking with it!)

Until next time...
Joan

Jmouse: Good Traffic Maps!  :thumbsup:  :thumbsup:  :thumbsup:  ;D  &apls
I hope they get em' selves a newspaper (it's just a suggestion).

Hopefully they will.

I also see that everyone's mostly goin' green by not using their car much and usin' buses and walking/biking.  ;)  &apls  ;D &apls  :thumbsup:


Thanks,
sc4luv2

Well, first to the update. Your transit system is impressive. As a resident of Los Angeles (Costa Mesa to be specific) I'm familiar with traffic, I-405...yay 6+ lanes each way and can still act like a parking lot. Somehow that appears to make its way into the game because I tend to have commute times at least 15x more than yours. If it's not too much trouble (or if it's already a part of your planned updates) I would be interested to see the system itself. Is it to the point where it is financially self-sufficient? That is a mysterious boat... I've never seen it before (in game or on the site), let me know if you find out where it came from.

Secondly: regarding the link thing. It's actually quite easy. In the posting window, just above the smileys are a number of buttons. There is one that looks like a little blue globe with a document (for me it is under the underline option). Click this and it will bring up a dialog box: input the url and click ok, then enter what you want the link to say (the blue text) and click ok again. This will embed the link in your post and will look similar to the following:

(url=YOUR URL)NAME OF THE LINK(/url)

Instead of using parentheses () it will use brackets []. I just used parentheses to prevent it from trying to treat it as an actual link. Hope that's clear (if not, I can make it clearer).

Lastly, in regard to tooheys' post I just noticed with the intersection of C2-5: if you have the feature installed, and you move one of the lower two avenues you can get a roundabout that would look pretty spiffy there. Or you could try to make a 3-way intersection (just drag the avenue out of the curve in a diagonal direction (it doesn't look too bad either).

Good updates so far. I'll enjoy seeing what else you'll come up with.

Joan i love your transportation network, such great detail and well displayed and layed out here Joan.... Great Job here and see you next update - pat


Oooooooh btw congrats on getting 30 replies for your first week!!!!!!!!!!!

---

OMG OMG OMG Joan make sure you see daves post down below me lol
sooooo not right hehehe........

Hi Joan, first thanks for the link.

Second, love the road network. You know I have a bit of a problem thinking outside the square/rectangle in this regard. You have managed congestion well and travels times, well, something I only dream about (in SC and RL  :))

Now placing my Joan cap on, I have one question, the area in the lower left of TD 1-1, is this a low density area. I see you have used only streets
and you seem to have your worst congestion here (although it is still nothing to worry about, it's nominal). If this area can still grow, however, you might have a bit of a problem. Just wandering if at least one road thru the centre would improve things even further?

Takes Joan cap off %confuso. What just happened, brain cells seemed to have worked together there for a moment  ()what()

Cheers

Dave

PS: I'd like to thank my writer for compiling this reply  :D

you seem to manage the traffic in Pitchfork Pass very well. i really like to see transportation layouts so thanks  :thumbsup:

aside note: what happened with the frames? ::) ok.. there are no photos.. i yet answered myself $%Grinno$%

Great traffice maps.  You did a great job planning that.

And you know the picture in TD1-1.  The avenue almost looks like a pitchfork in Pitchfork Pass

Hi Joan,

Great update there :P.  Really like the traffic data, particularly the first overview map, gives a great idea. And WOW, what great bus usage.  I thought I achieved good bus usage but you've done something real special there.

Interesting that you build with the grid on.  I never do.  To be honest, it took me quite some time before I even realised you could turn it on!

Catch up soon at the next update.

Paul

@ sc4luv2: Thanks for stopping by. I'm sure the PP Herald Sun will eventually find a few suckers brave writers willing to risk life and limb by giving us the real lowdown. :)

@threestooges: My son worked in San Francisco for three years and met his future wife there. They live in Texas now, but believe me, I've heard more than a few CA traffic horror stories!
Transit systems are my weakest link, but I'm trying to learn from the experts here at SC4D. I can only guess that commute times, mass transit usage and a lack of congestion are due to CAM. Also, I make sure to have plenty of bus stops by tracking auto usage and placing more stops when necessary. It isn't unusual for a neighborhood to have three or four pickup/drop off points.
I'll be happy to show you any aspect of the city or region you want to see, but I'm not sure what you mean by the "system itself." All I have right now is a general idea of where I want to go with WJ. I'm just taking a wait-and-see approach right now.
Thanks for the mini tutorial, and thanks for being a regular visitor at WJ! :)

@ patfirefghtr: Mayor Hooter Hillcrank has hereby appointed you as the official post counter. It isn't something he pays much attention to, so he's happy to have you aboard, and your paycheck is in the mail!
I have a feeling the WJ/PP transport network will be a point of interest, so come on back often. Who knows, it might end up being a big circus! :D

@tooheys: Wish I could take credit for this trouble-free transit network, but I think it should go to CAM. Read my response to threestooges for more insight.
The photos below will help you understand my approach to creating neighborhoods. I usually start out with streets, wait until the hot spots appear and weave in a few roads accordingly. This is the kind of layout I'm used to seeing and driving on, and it usually works for me in the game.
And could you e-mail me one of those caps? I'd love to see if my brain cells would work together occasionally!
Thanks for stopping by, my friend! ;)

@figui: Looks like the transport network will be a featured item from time to time, but keep in mind there are many SC4D members with a lot more experience than I have.
Thanks for stopping by. :)

@tkirch: Thank you for your kind words. I saw the pitchfork when I named the river, but didn't see it in the transport system, so I'm glad you pointed it out. Seeing things through many eyes is part of the fun in doing an MD!
Hope you'll be a regular visitor. :)

@paroch: Glad to see you haven't deserted me! :D  Looks like you posted while I was updating, but since I've made enough mistakes already, I didn't want to take any more chances. &ops
Anyway, I watch auto usage like a hawk and try to place bus stops as needed. It seems odd to me, though, that folks will drive several miles to a bus stop when there's one almost next door.
Don't be a stranger! :)


Chapter III: South bank.

*C 3-1* The city engineer typically takes a wait-and-see approach. So following the recent traffic study, he identified hot spots and recommended placement of new roads through the residential areas.
The road marked by yellow arrows is an imaginary boundary between medium- and low-density residential. Medium density will continue along the coast, however, much like it's counterpart on the north bank.

*C 3-2* When I showed the city engineer the C 2-5 photo, I thought he was going to have The Big One. He recovered, however, and drew up plans for a roundabout.
The PP College Alumni Association raised a big stink when some pedestrian tiles had to be destroyed, but Hooter was able to calm them down.
The city paid for a nice stand of horse-apple trees behind the barn and livestock pens, and Association President, Billie Jo Oder, was happy once again.

*C 3-3* We crossed the bridge into the south-bank area.

*C 3-4* St. Joan's Academy for Rich Kids is equipped with much the same amenities as the public schools. The animal pens are discreetly separated from the main campus by a pond, though. Also, the curriculum focuses more on teaching students to train their ranch hands than actually doing the work themselves.
Windows at the nearby church are kept closed at all times.

*C 3-5* This is a typical neighborhood along the south bank with a mixture of condos, apartments and single-family homes.

*C 3-6* Just south of it is a similar neighborhood with a little more high-wealth development.

*C 3-7* As we move farther south, the mid-rise buildings thin out and there are more single-family homes. The new low-density zoning should attract even more small houses.

*C 3-8* Hooter's wife, Ima Li'l, said she likes this little shopping center.
"When I go there, I don't have to dress up like I'm going to Wal-Mart or something," she explained.
She didn't mention the nearby park.

*C 3-9* Although high-tech industry dominates the south-bank port, there will always be petroleum-related structures like this oil pier.

*C 3-10* There is still plenty of room left for development in Pitchfork Pass. These days Hooter is walking around with a gleam in his eye and a big grin, so there's no telling what he has in mind.

Next: Members of a farming co-op showed up at Tuesday's City Council meeting but promptly fell asleep. The city secretary read their proposal for the record, but was it approved?

Until next time...
Joan

Joan lovely update and btw St Joans hmmm intresting lol... I wonder any RL draw on that name lol.....  I thank you for that appointment and i shall do me best duty here on the job  ;)


btw i want to welcome you to pg 3!!!!!!!!

Well that was another update well done. You continue to impress with your educational facilities. It's really great to see custom built facilites, expecially when they are comprised of multiple pack of lots. In regard to my curiosity regarding the "whole system" I was wondering if it would be possible to get the city engineer to compile a map of the public transportation system apart from basic roads etc: bus routes, any subway/glr, etc and perhaps any planned routes (I know the planning is as needs warrant it but if you have any propsed routes in mind). The usage area is shown pretty well on the previously shown traffic map, but it doesn't show stops (or routes), but that may be a bit much work. If you do happen to get into all of that, it would be interesting to see, and would really add an extra element of depth to the MD. No problem about the tutorial, I'm happy to help.

nice update!

just curiosity: what's the actual population of pitchfork pass?

Hi Joan,

Great update there. &apls &apls &apls
Don't worry I won't be deserting you - just been really busy, hence why my MD hasn't had an update in over a week.  Trouble is, I come on here and then the hour I'd allocated to actually playing SC4 gets eaten up reading MDs, looking at recent BATs and before I know it, BAM, no time for anything else.

Anyways, I like the look of southbank.  I like the way you mix the low and medium densities in together.  It delivers a nice result.  The mall plus park is also VERY nice.

A couple of observations (in NO way negative).....
Traffic - there seems to be hardly any cars on the roads in your pics.  At first I thought that maybe you'd turned the automata off but then when I looked there are a few, but not many at all.  Must be your ace traffic management.  I guess it depends what you are trying to achieve - efficiency versus realism.  I like my roads to have plenty of cars buzzing about as I think it adds to the look and feel of a city.  But of course you pay for that with commute times and congestion.
Open paving.  You use the pedestrian paving a lot more than I do.  Interestingly you seem to use the pinkish colour one.  I use the grey one (can't recall their proper names).  I'm looking at picture C3-9 specifically.   I guess we must both be creatures of habit.

As for the comment made by threestooges - I think I know what he means - draw a transit map.  I have thought about this myself for West End.  And I will (at some point).  Only things holding me back are time (I'd rather build the city), skill (not sure how to do it) and maintenance (I know that I will add stations and routes after I've drawn the map).  So if you do draw one up I'd be interested to hear how you get on.

Keep up the great work Joan, I think you'll very soon be up on the Ones to Watch section.

Take care,

Paul

Transit map... that's exactly what I was getting at (why I didn't think to say something so simple is beyond me). Thanks paroch for clearing that up for me.

@ threestooges and paroch: OK you guys, I'm game. If you're defining "transit map" the same way I am, it probably would be a big help to me later on.
Just to make sure we're on the same wave length, though, can you give me an example - a link or two perhaps? Are you talking about the kind of map David is making for 3RR or what?

Until next time...
Joan

*EDIT* There used to be a mod which showed bus stops, but I can't find it. Anyone out there know where it is?

Hi Joan,

he he he :D, you're hooked!   I haven't got a link to hand (and it is time for zzzz's here in UK - early start tomorrow), but I've seen them particularly from people submitting a Simlympic bid.  Next time I'm on I'll try and track a link down for you (hopefully tomorrow).

Til then,

Paul

Yeah, I think we're pretty much on the same track here. I wouldn't say you had to go as far as David, just a simple map showing routes and stops (the first good example I could remember/find is in Nova Vesfalo (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=488.300). and perhaps show some pics of the areas around some of the more noteworthy stops. I'll look forward to see what you come up with.

Hi Joan,

Sorry I took so long to reply. I read your last update on day 1 and then forgot to post. oops.

Anyway, I like your development style and your story. I live with a Texan from an oil family and your tales sound like those he tells of his grandfather and great grandfather. Keep up the good work!

Cheers,
Kevin

Hi Joan,

Here are some links to transit maps over at the sim sports site.  As threestooges says - don't feel you have to be bound by these designs, your take on them I am sure will be cool.  They each have their own style with varying degrees of difficulty.

Transit map 1:
Near top of page - very detailed - maybe a little fussy
http://www.hostmybb.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?t=446&mforum=simlympics

Transit map 2:
Scroll quite a way down - simple but effective
http://www.hostmybb.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?t=443&mforum=simlympics

Transit map 3:
Half way down page - very simple layout.
http://www.hostmybb.com/phpbb/viewtopic.php?t=437&mforum=simlympics



good luck!

Paul

Great update as usual, I hope for more! Also, great bridge you got there!

in C 3-3

Didn't notice until Jmouse posts, but this is post 50!

@patfirefghtr: Thank you for accepting the job. And do you really think St. Joan's Academy could be...? Naw, no way! :D

@threestooges: Thanks for your kind words. Ever since WJ's humble beginning, I've discovered I really enjoy wasting using tax dollars for landscaping and other amenities around civic buildings.
As for a transit map, I'll see about showing some bus routes and even illustrating how I go about creating a mass transit (bus) system if you're interested.

@figui: Thanks for stopping by. At the time of the C-3 update, the population of Pitchfork Pass was a little over 100,000. ()stsfd()

@paroch: I know you won't desert me, Paul. I'm just kidding around! :D
You are right about the lack of cars, and I don't know what to do about it. I have "# of cars and Sims" set on high, but sometimes I have to wait on turtle speed for several minutes before I take a picture. Then, most of them disappear when I click. If nothing else, you'd think the streets would be full of buses and pedestrians (see TD photos above). Do you think it might have something to do with the time of day? I would appreciate any ideas on balancing efficiency and realism.
I'm just using the ped tiles in an effort to open up the commercial districts. I have a terrible habit of overcrowding them, so this is my way of learning to ease off!
And thanks for the links. I'll look at them ASAP, but right now, I have a date (with my daughter) to watch a movie tonight! ;)

@sc4luv2: Thanks for your kind words. I love bridges and try to use them often. Hope you'll be a regular visitor. :)

@ All: Congratulations on making the 50th post, sc4luv2, and thanks to everyone for your kind words of encouragement. Reaching 50 posts in two weeks was beyond my wildest dreams. I was looking at a number more like five or 10!
Anyway, this is a very supportive community, and I am honored to be a part of it. :thumbsup:

I just thought the city engineer was going to have "The Big One" before, but this time, he really did!
Luckily, his quick-witted secretary dived under her desk and I was able to hide behind the filing cabinet by the door.
After he began to breathe normally again, however, he agreed to consider the proposal after he returns from his vacation on Walker's Island with a stopover at Monkey Island for the best banana split on earth. :P

Until next time...
Joan

Keep up the great work Joan, I love reading this and look forward to your next update.

Paroch, I looked at those links.  I would have no idea how to do something like those, they are amazing.  I wish I had those skills. I only have Nunchaku skills... bowhunting skills... computer hacking skills... Girls only want boyfriends who have great skills!

Cant wait for the next update! Satisfy our needs, Joan!

Hi Joan, thought I'd better sneak in before the next update. This area is coming along nicely. Thanks for the explanation re the road network.

I do like that school, nice combination of lots and a mosaic as well  :thumbsup:

Cheers

Dave

LoL Joan naw not at all lol..... Well i do have this update for you which im proud to post here for you....

congratulations Joan :thumbsup:

Mauricio.

Well, I'd like to take this time to congratulate you, Joan! You're doing a fine job here, and it's my pleasure to move your MD to the Ones to Watch section. Congratulations, my friend!

@tkirch: There will be a transit map eventually, but first the author needs to figure out where she's going! ()what() Thanks for stopping by.

@nedalezz: Are you going to start nagging me again?!   :P  OK, your wish has been granted.

@Dave (tooheys): You were right about the difference between a game and an MD – more hard work than play! I'm learning as I go, though, so maybe I'll figure out how to speed things up a bit.
Thanks for stopping by. :)

@Pat (patfirefghtr): OK, I finally figured out where you got the MD (AUTHOR) entry, but how did you arrive at the numbers for rank and growth?
See ya' soon, sweetie! ;)

@Mauricio (figui): Thanks! Looks like you knew about it before I did because I've spent the whole day getting the following update ready to publish.
One of these days, I've got to get organized! &mmm

@thundercrack83: WOW! A promotion in less than three weeks. I'm both humbled and honored. :)


*C 4-1* Local farmers were pleased to find the City Council approved their request to lease a large segment of land in the rolling hills of Pitchfork Pass.

*C 4-2* One of the first in line was a wily old man with a pilot's license, a few single-engine planes and a passion for crop dusting.
He's a daredevil who flies just above the fields and soaks the crops with bug killer. In this photo, he's landing to refuel and pick up another load of pesticide.
Health care professionals recommend that consumers scrub all fruits and vegetables with a stiff brush then boil them for 20 minutes before eating them.

*C 4-3* Hooter decided this area (center) was too rocky for farming, so he turned it into a wildlife refuge. The game warden reported that an impressive flock of turkey buzzards has taken up residence, and their numbers are expected to increase.

(*C 4-4* Sorry, the dog ate it.)

*C 4-5* These are typical ranches which produce a wide variety of products, from soup to nuts.

*C 4-6* Some of the farms are more like country estates.

*C 4-7* On this typical ranch (center) there is a field of soybeans to the south, a small livestock area to the north and a hay field to the northwest.  Later, some of the hay will be stored in the barn loft, and the rest will be sold for a huge profit.

*C 4-8* This ranch shares property and resources with a catfish farm. Rumor has it the fishing is great, especially after dark.

*C 4-9* Looks like it's party time at this ranch.

*C 4-10* The 11-7 shift is headed for work...

*C 4-11* ...and to all a good night!

Until next time...
Joan

Hello Joan,

I see you entered into the next level - congratulations! &apls

Great pictures of the farmland, all area is very diversified, looks fresh and charming.
Making farms on slopes is a great challenge - I know something about it :D, and you did it excellent!
You take care about details - it adds a lot to the general feeling
An I must say your frames are absolutely charming, I like them a lot!

Congratulations on moving up Joan.  This is moving along great.

I love the airfield in C4-2 and the hay fields are great!  All the farmlands are great on the rolling hills.

Joan- Wildcat Junction is on fire!  Wonderful pics, great explanations- you've got a keeper going here.


David

Hi Joan,

First of all CONGRATULATIONS on moving up to Ones to Watch.  Both you and your MD are very popular on SC4D, so keep it going and you'll continue to move onwards and upwards. :thumbsup:

And well done on another great update.  I like the farming area, and I love the traffic in the pics!  I particularly like the farm in C4-7 - just the way it's spread over a few different fields which is very realistic.  I tend to have one field farms, and what you've done is different and in my opinion more realistic.  I must remember to add some of these to my farming areas.  Also like the hay fields, don't think I've seen them before.

Catch up soon,

Paul

I had to catch up here 4 pages.. and with pleasure. Your MD is one of the view showing stats on traffic and population - interesting to see. And the pictures tell that you are skilled city planner. I will be back to see more  :thumbsup:

firstly: congrats for your promotion :thumbsup:
secondly: lovely farming area. you did a great job on that slopes

Mauricio.

Joan most of congrats for being moved to "ones to watch" you know i bet you are heading to "OSITM" [linkie] (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?board=152.0).... I swear Joan you gotta keep that pesky dog away from the picture pile, bad dog badd puppie....  So are you promoting fishing after dark lol....  Ohh to answer you that is Dustin (thundercrack83) handy work as it is from here (http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=1300.msg84203#msg84203).... See you next update - pat

Congratulations on moving up! Before you know it, you'll surpass Qumma, hehe. Another fantastic update, and I love the sense of humour too. You are a great in-game picture taker, and you show quite alot of talent with farm building. Overall, this MD keeps getting better and better.

More awesomeness! No wonder you got promoted!!

Monkey Island will send a banana bouquet to honor your achievement.  :thumbsup:

Looking good Joan  :thumbsup:. Like the way you are working with the landscape, the fields on the slopes are a nice effect.

The little stream looks good, must be a few beavers in place there given all the fallen trees  :)

The airstrip caught my eye, I'm glad you didn't flatten out the runway, adds that little bit of extra realism, they are rarely dead flat.

Cheers

Dave

Quote from: dedgren on October 27, 2007, 06:58:12 PM
Joan- Wildcat Junction is on fire!

OH NO!

get Pat! &hlp

@Ennedi: Thank you, and thanks for the compliment!
Looking back, I wish I'd started out with farms, but I was too anxious to get the seaport done.
Oh well, there are plenty of other cities left to work on, and I'm sure there will be lessons to be learned from each one.
The frames were done in Adobe Illustrator which adds an extra step to the photo editing process. Later on, however, you'll see they have a specific purpose other than just being a decoration. &idea

@ tkirch: Thank you, tkirch. I was happy to find the crop duster farm because we have a lot of little planes like that in the air where I live. There's one in particular we call the "smiley duster" because it's the same shade of yellow as a smiley face! :)

@ David (dedgren): Thank you, sir. So do you! ;)

@ Paul (paroch): Thank you, Paul. Yes, I finally got a few cars to show up, but I hope it doesn't mean extra traffic congestion!
Most large farms and ranches, at least the one's I'm used to seeing, are broken down into sections like the one in C 4-7, and hay fields are a very common sight.
Glad you like the arrangement! :)

@ sebes: Welcome to the Junction, sebes, and thanks for your kind words!  As for city planning, I think it's more luck than skill, but I hope to improve.
Anyway, don't be a stranger! :)

@ figui: Thank you, Mauricio. I'm not sure I'd want to climb on a tractor and try to plow some of those steep slopes, so I'm glad it's somebody else's problem!
Thanks for stopping by. :D

@ Pat (patfirefghtr): Now, that's a nice thought, Pat, but I don't think anybody gets two promotions in less than a week! And thanks for the stats. Interesting!
Anyway, glad you stopped by. :)

@ nedalezz: Thanks for the kind words, nedalezz and don't worry. Qumma is perfectly safe!
I'm pleased to know you see improvement and hope there will be much more. Publishing an MD certainly is a learning experience, isn't it! :D

@Schulmanator: Thanks for stopping by. The bouquet was ever so loverly and yummy.
Also, since Hooter leaves no deed unpunished unrewarded, here is his contribution to your already-impressive photo album.

Wish I could include a soundtrack - it's hilarious. :D

@ NASCAR_Guy: He's already here, but the fire just keeps gettin' hotter!
Thanks for stopping by. ;)



Hooter thinks green in every sense of the word. He's genuinely conscious of environmental concerns, but he wants to leave a huge financial legacy for his family, too.
So when he saw the farmer's interest in the rolling hills, he saw potential for a tourist attraction.

*Bn-1 1* Here's an overview of his idea - in Technicolor.

*Bn-1 2* The trail begins here where a couple of restaurants are available to feed the hungry masses. Those who want to take a stroll around the lower pond can enjoy lunch, spend some quality time with the kids and come back for dinner.
***BURP***

*Bn-1 3* Those hikers brave enough to make it to the second level can cross between the waterfalls. The newly-formed PP Tourist Bureau recommends they bring along a towel sealed in a plastic bag for each member of their party if they decide to so.

*Bn-1 4* Visitors who choose to dine before climbing all the way up to the lookout platform are to be congratulated for their stamina but advised to bring their own sleeping bags. Camping facilities have not yet been established for over-fed hikers.
*** Burp?***

Since a new category has been established for Bonus updates (aka Bn), we hope there will be more mini-updates in the future
Stay tuned and enjoy your visit to Wildcat Junction.

Until  next time...
Joan

LoL Joan ~~BURP~~  man talk about intresting climb there man i would suggest going up on a empty stomach lol... ooh did some one call for the fire department... Im sorry but them ole boys are little preoxxupied (https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.freesmileys.org%2Femo%2Featdrink008.gif&hash=3a37591b3321e2111afdc293a47de4e549903788) (https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.freesmileys.org%2Femo%2Featdrink003.gif&hash=4461d981ee7f10d5b8c88ca574dfb895de312b84) (https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.freesmileys.org%2Femo%2Ffart006.gif&hash=d659557890c34d798f0517a89eac68d7f8e00299)

Absolutely stunning update.

I love the trails and the look out.  The pond looks great there.

A fantastic update.

This MD is burnin' up the whole universe!!!  :o  :o  :o We'll have to the the firemen to put 'er out!!!!!! A great BOUNS you have there!

Joan: thanks for this bonus update!
very nice looking area, that park seems to be very peaceful and relaxing to visit! i'd like to be there next weekend ;D *packs bags and drives to airport*

see you there,
mauricio.

Another splendid update. You've done a great job with the slopes. There is a visible elevation change, but you seem to have been able to hide any major 'kinks' in the trail... it looks so smooth. Peg's streams look natural here too. You'll have to pay a visit back here when the tourism bureau get around to finishing up the campsite. I should comment on the previous update too, but what can I say beyond excellent? One question I have though, is how did you make the landing strip? It looks great (and I may have to 'borrow' the technique for my own uses). It's good to come around here after law school and read through the recent updates. Take it easy and keep up the good work.

That pass is looking very nice! Great work on it! Fantastic pictures of it, too! :thumbsup:

Great area you've developed there Joan.  I particularly like the way you've made the rocks look - verrrrrrry nice!

Congratulations, JMouse-

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg530.imageshack.us%2Fimg530%2F5428%2Fwildcatjunctionfk7.png&hash=00b0a4fc2e14a079434a4a9dd53433355448946b)

Ever deeper into the heart of Texas...


The Staff

I knew it would get Special Interest of this Month!!! I just  knew, because it's still on fire!!! Good Work, Jmouse!

Congratulations, Jmouse! &apls
Looking forward to more of your work! ;)

Congratulations Joan!  &dance &dance &dance

Quote from: sc4luv2 on November 01, 2007, 08:33:01 AM
I knew it would get Special Interest of this Month!!! I just  knew, because it's still on fire!!! Good Work, Jmouse!

I knew it too, you put a lot of heart in everything you show us!
The last update is very charming, a recreational area with viewing platforms is very well placed, it must be a great view from it  :)
To develop this hilly area wasn't such easy - I know something about it ;). And you succesfully used some very regular stuff (dirt tracks, PEG's pond and waterfalls) to make an irregular and natural looking landscape. It is worth of an award  &apls

I will visit you with pleasure! :thumbsup:

well done Joan! :thumbsup: :thumbsup:
you really deserve this OSITM!

mauricio.

Hello, Joan!

Congratulations on being selected for November's Special Interest MDs, my friend! I can't wait to see what you've got planned for your time in the spotlight!

Congrats on the move to SIOTM.  I can't wait to see what you have for us.
The last update was very interesting.  I like the bright , vibrant colours.

Robin   :thumbsup:

Joan,

Congratulations for this honor. I really enjoy your trail system, I always like to look at large parks such as these.

I'm looking forward to more!

Cheers,
Kevin

@ All: I am pleased and honored to find Wildcat Junction among such distinguished company. Thanks to the staff at SC4D, and most of all to you, the loyal supporters who have made it possible.


@patfirefghtr: Thanks for stopping by, Pat. Your comments are always such a hoot!

@tkirch: I appreciate your kind words. Actually I didn't know I was going to do the lookout until I did it. I just rotated the city and saw an opportunity to include a few waterfalls.

@sc4luv2: Thanks for stopping by and for your loyal support. Now if I can just keep the embers glowing a little longer!

@ Mauricio (figui): You've got yourself a date! I'll meet you at the Buffalo Grill.
And thanks for the congrats. Hope I'll be worthy of the honor.

@threestooges: Your kind words and encouragement mean a great deal to me. The pine trails are pretty slope friendly, so it was just a matter of tweaking the ground for water placement.
The landing strip is part of the Crop Duster and Farm by victory and can be found here: Link (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?p=results). (ST seems to be having a bit of trouble with this search engine, so if the link doesn't work, just go to the STEX and use "crop" as your query word. Someone else asked about the farm as well and it took me two days to get the URL.)
I think it's a very clever BAT or lot editing job and it's slope friendly, at least on a gentle slope.
BTW, I didn't realize you were a law student. Have you chosen your area of specialization yet?

@bat: Thank you, thank you and thank you for making the 80th post! I love creating and decorating things.
I was just thinking about The Sims and Sims2 the other day. I played both for a while, but eventually realized I was spending more time designing houses and downloading wallpaper samples than actually playing the game.
That's when I went back to SC4 never to stray again.

@paroch: Thanks for the compliment. I love the rocks, logs, bright-colored trees, etc., and it's hard for me to resist plopping them everywhere. But I try to restrict myself to using just a few!

@Ennedi: You are such a multi-talented player, and your kind words mean a great deal to me.
Honestly, I didn't even think about it being the beginning of a month, so the honor took me by surprise. (It's easy to lose track of time when you're retired and don't have to be somewhere every day!)
I enjoy working with hills and added them to the landscape even though there are none that close to the coast in Texas. Anyway, who knows, maybe some tunnels will appear here and there one of these days!

@thundercrack83: Thanks for stopping by. Whatever happens during the next 30 days will come as a surprise to both of us!

@Robin (rooker1): Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment. I'm trying to smooth out the update process, but there are still a few rocks in the road!

@Kevin (BigSlark): Glad you like to look at big parks because I love creating them! Thanks for stopping by.

@ Dave (tooheys): And special thanks to you, my friend.

Once again, thanks go out to all of you who have provided inspiration, encouragement and support. You remind me every day why I've chosen SC4D as my favorite place to visit!

Until next time...
Joan

Let me toss five stars on top of all that.  Wildcat Junction is a great read, Joan!


David

Quote from: dedgren on November 01, 2007, 02:30:18 PM
Let me toss five stars on top of all that.  Wildcat Junction is a great read, Joan!


David

make that 10 stars! you got 5 from me! because it's one of the best MDs I have ever read!!

---

When I can get the Karma enabled (I don't have the  :thumbsup: or  :thumbsdown:), i'll give you a  :thumbsup: point for this Great MD!!!

Well a total of 15 stars added Joan well with my 5 lol..... Oooooooooh and i qoute "but I don’t think anybody gets two promotions in less than a week!" ummmm yea looks like you did get 2 promotions this week lol.... Joan you have such Mad MD'ing Skills here and you are such a supporter of everyones MD which btw i've got plans for more outta waterfalls...  This is only fitting that you are now in OSITM soo Joan Congratlations to you my friend!!!   - pat

&apls :thumbsup:

Well first things first, a wonderful update Joan, a PEG bonanza.  :thumbsup: Nicely put together and great use of the terrain.

And secondly, and more importantly, congrats on the big promotion.  &apls  And you said you'd never make it  ::) Put in a big month and you'll soon be in the Classics  ;)

Congratulations again, well deserved.

Cheers

Dave

I just love the colour in your pictures and the fact that you don't overcrowd them. Every rock, tree, detail is exactly placed wich makes every picture special. Another great thing is that in almost every tile I see something I haven't seen before, this is a real great piece of work! Congrats on the award

Quote from: threestooges on October 30, 2007, 08:19:50 PM
You've done a great job with the slopes. There is a visible elevation change, but you seem to have been able to hide any major 'kinks' in the trail...

That was exactly what I was thinking when seeing that hiking area. That, and the funny tourist brochure descriptions, make this award well deserved !!! Congratz.

Joan,

Well done, conrgatulations and HOORAY on your award to Special Interest.

As already said above, you are both a great MD'er and a great MD supporter.  Your award is HIGHLY Deserved.  I have to admit that all the MDs here this month are ones I regualrly visit, what company!

I'm really looking forward to seeing what you have planned for us this month, I know you will already have some great ideas waiting for us. ;D

Very interesting rock textures. I really like how they look. Very colorful and pleasant pictures.

@ David (dedgren): Many thanks. Coming from someone of so many talents and accomplishments, it is a great compliment.

@sc4luv2: Thanks for your kind words and for stopping by.

@Pat (patfirefghtr): And thanks go out you as well. It is my pleasure to be a supportive member in the SC4D community, but I get a lot of ideas in return. 
Thanks for stopping by, and I'll be watching as your work develop.

@Dave (tooheys): Thank you for the compliment, the congrats and the encouragement. You are a wonderful friend to have!

@capo: Glad you like the photos. Yes, I do put a lot of thought into how I want things to look, but it slows me down. Sometimes it seems like I spend half my time searching the menus for plugins and the other half on mini-search-and-destroy missions!
If something doesn't suit me, it gets the boot.

@sebes: Thanks for the kind words. One of these days I'll have to try out the TPW, especially after seeing what some of the others have done with it. For now, though, I'm sticking with what I know.

@paroch: Your kind words and encouragement are most appreciated.
Yes, I do have big plans for the month, but as stated above, I'm hard to please so I'm a rather slow player.

@amapper: I'm using the GrayMarbleRock mod simply because it looks more like rocks to me! Such things are just a matter of personal opinion and preference, of course.
Thanks for stopping by and I'm glad you like the pictures.



C 5-1: After a time-consuming dispute with the contractor, Hooter was able to start creating the hilltop retreat of his dreams.

C 5-2: There are a few commercial establishments at the base of the winding road that leads to Hillbilly Heaven.

C 5-3: On the left is a unique Bed & Breakfast faithfully decorated in an authentic Wild West style. The "General Store B&B" can accommodate 24 guests, or a lot more if they're all really good friends.
Guests are reminded to not sit on the plow in the parlor. The management has already had to replace the carpet a dozen times.

C 5-4: On the right side is a gas station, a convenience store disguised as an old-fashioned trading post and a Fuddruckers Restaurant. Customers who can say the name really fast six times in a row without making a mistake receive a complimentary beverage with their meal.

C 5-5: The Hillbilly Heaven Lodge is where visitors check in and get their cabin assignments. It features a large gathering room with a natural-rock fireplace in the center and two dining halls.

C 5-6: Behind the lodge is a faithfully-reproduced Wild West town where visitors can stroll down a dirt street, visit quaint shops and buy overpriced souvenirs. The Hillbilly Heaven Pool Hall and Saloon is a popular night spot.

C 5-7: Along the winding street above the lodge are several rental cabins moderately priced at $150 a night.

C 5-8: Next door are the executive cabins which feature larger rooms and more privacy. You can rent one for – mmmm, trust me, you don't want to know.

C 5-9: These smaller cabins each feature a kitchenette, a gathering room and four bedrooms upstairs.


C 5-10: For those who enjoy a more rustic atmosphere, these one-story cabins feature all the comforts of home. The ranch-style cabin on the left is the largest one in Hillbilly Heaven and is a popular site for family reunions.
A deputy sheriff is on call to mediate family feuds.

Editor's note: These past few days, there have been a few unusual game issues I've never experienced before. For example, R and C demands at all levels are through the roof but there's little or no development in newly-zoned areas. If others (especially those using CAM) have experienced similar situations, I'd like to hear about it.
Meanwhile, I hope you enjoy the update.

Until next time...
Joan

Sorry for being a bit late to the party, but congratulations on your special interest status.  I'm looking forward to following the story.

Stewart

Hiya's Joan my dear lady I have experienced this same affliction as well...  My area of Farmington Heights is having the same issue and what i did believe it or not I've planted and i do mean planted some of Jeroni's trees on the lot and as soon as i did i got growth... I haven't tried with any other custom made tree's but I'm guessing it might have the same effect... Oh so i don't forget Here (http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=921) and the one i used to get growth is the tree in the top pic on the left side of row of pics... I hope that helps some - pat

I love the updates Joan.

I have had the same situation in my MD.  I noticed with CAM installed demand is through the roof but building is slow.  I also noticed that I+C is a lot larger than R.  But it really doesn't seem to be causing any major problems so I wouldn't worry about it.

I love the wild west town pictures that is a great recreation and looks like a great spot for the tourists to visit.

Todd

Great update, Joan. I enjoy your rural scenes, they remind of the Arkansas and Missouri Ozarks (is that any coincidence?).

As always, I'm looking forward to seeing where the story goes next.

Cheers,
Kevin

Beautiful village, Joan! Your attention to details is absolutely amazing! I love the Wild West town, especially. I may have to get one of those overpriced souvenirs! Take care, my friend!

Wonderful looking pictures of this great village! Looking forward to more...

Very nice pictures. I like how Pitchfork Pass is developing. It's turning out extremely well, especially in the hills.

Howdy Joan,

I've been checking regularly for your update - is that sad or am I hooked?

And not surprisingly it was worth the wait.  As I look at your pics I wonder how you manage to achieve the level of consistency with your lots.  Do you plop 'em all? do you zone and hope and constantly weed out what you don't want, or do you manage your plug-ins to the extent that you only have the lots you want?  OR, do you have another method?  Hope you don't mind me asking.

I love the wild west street - very nice.  The various lodges, cabins and hotels also fit in really well.  The general store is an interesting BAT, don't think I've seen it before.  And your storyline keeping Hooter involved is well constructed, love the name Hillbilly Heaven!

I don't have CAM installed myself so can't comment on your demand and develop issue - but sounds like you're getting good advice from our great community.

I look forward to hearing what Hooter has planned next.

Paul

Yee haw!! Now that's a great update, pardner!!!  :satisfied:

Very lovely.  I love the rural feel to this mayors' diary.

Well.....now why have I not seen this before, I feel so shameful now.

I have now found it and how glorious, so much care and effort, it really does show the region pics are just lovely. Highly impressive indeed.

I shall be returning much more often now  :satisfied:

very nice update Joan!
nice town :thumbsup:

mauricio.

@thundercrack83: I've wanted to use some onlyplace4's BATs for some time now and finally found an excuse!
And BTW, there's a special on key chains and postcards this week, so hurry on in. :)

@Stewart (stewart_garden): Better late than never, and thanks for the congrats!
Wildcat Junction is a learning experience and a place to experiment with new ideas. Most of all, however, it's a place for everyone to have fun, so if you enjoy a few chuckles mixed in with the serious stuff, come back often. :)

@ Pat (patfirefghtr): I would tell you you're a genius, but I wouldn't want you to get a swelled head or anything.
Anyway, the tree trick seems to be working. I've taken it a step further and discovered if one tree in that group doesn't work, another will. (Also see my answer to Paul (paroch)).
Thanks for the tip. :thumbsup:

@ Todd (tkirch): Thanks for visiting WJ again. I, too, have about 5,000 more jobs than Sims, but R doesn't want to develop in a way I'm used to. You might want to read my answer to Paul as well.

@ Kevin (BigSlark): Well, I lived in Missouri for a year and have retired to Arkansas. But Texas has some lovely hills, too. My late uncle had an 1,800-acre cattle ranch in Meridian, Texas, about 65 miles southwest of Dallas. There are some rolling hills and lots of mesquite up that way, and of course, there's always Fredricksburg!
Thanks for stopping by, and I'm kind of wondering where it's going myself! ()what()

@bat: Thanks for your kind words. Glad to hear you liked the photos because I did them a little differently this time.
And thanks for stopping by.

@Shadow Assassin: Thank you for the encouraging words. Mountains are beautiful, but I've always liked the subtle texture hills give to a landscape.
Thank you for visiting WJ.

@Paul (paroch): Thank you for your patience, and I'm glad you came back for a visit. It's been a slow go lately because of demand and development issues.
And now for your question to which there is no clear-cut answer.
If I had to describe my primary playing style, "zone, hope and weed out" would be the most accurate. When eight Burger Kings in a row show up, seven have to go!
On the other hand, however, I plopped several I-Ms at portside to achieve a specific look. (jestarr is one of my favorite BATters.)
The farms were all plopped, partly to achieve a certain look on the slopes, but also because zoned farms wouldn't grow. I've never plopped farms before.  Next time I will start with agricultural and low-density zoning instead of leaving it to the last. Start small and end large is normally the approach I take.
I don't recall plopping any houses in the neighborhoods and normally don't.
As for managing the plugins folder, I think it would take months to sort through everything and pick out individual items. I think most of my downloads are compatible with each other, though.
And thanks for your kind words. :)

@Schulmanator: Thank you. BTW, did you get the photo I left for you an update or two ago?

@sobol: Guess my own love for rural areas is showing through! Thanks for stopping by and don't be a stranger.

@Emperor Stormont: So glad you stopped by. Isn't it weird how we can enjoy and appreciate each other's cities even they couldn't be more different.
Well, y'all come back, ya' hear! :D

@figui: Thank you, Mauricio, and thanks for stopping by.

(Editor's note: The demand/development issue appears to be under control once again, so this should speed things up quite a bit. Meanwhile, thanks to all for your patience, your visits to WJ and your encouragement.)

Until next time...
Joan

I see I am late again... Great update Joan! The pticures of the farms are very nice  :satisfied:  The rocky parts in pictures 5.3 and 5.4 are my favourites... I like those better as the ones shown later, with the treetrunks.

HEHEHE Joan, well you know umm that i am smarter then i look lol.... I didnt even think of trying anther tree from that set to get growth as ive had succes with the one 99% of the time cept the one lot area im trying to get to grow is the scenery gardens by bixel.... Congrats to Dustin for making the 100th post... see you Joan again when you update - pat

Fuddruckers, Fuddruckers, Fuddruckers, Fuddruckers, Fuddruckers, #@%#*$&#^@%. Damn, I was hoping for a free beer  :(

Joan, you are really doing a great job here :thumbsup:. I luv you selection of lots and also your use of the landscape. The fact that you are so soon working on hilly terrain is a testament to your skill (whether you believe it or not  ;) )

I use them myelf, but you seem to have a lot of fallen trees, termite problem   :D

Cheers

Dave

Hi Joan,

thanks for explaining your approach - I'm always interested to know how people achieve a certain look and feel.  As for farms not growing later in the development of a city - yep, I experience that alot as well.  In Great Portland I had hoped to put some more farms in, but BANG all demand has gone.  I'm not much of a plopper myself but guess that's what I'll have to do.

Looking forward to the next update.

A very nice update, you truly have your own unique style of creating cities. A style I very much enjoy, you put together buildings I would never have thought to look well together, but they do! Again I must compliment you for your eye for detail. Congratulations with the 100th reply! A milestone with more to come I'm sure..

@sebes: Thanks for stopping by. And I agree, I think we're going to have to back off on the fallen trees! ::)

@patfirefghtr: I've been doing some more experimenting with your theory and have come up with some surprising results. I'll get back to you on the subject after trying a few more tricks.
Meanwhile, thanks for paying a visit. :)

@tooheys: I always enjoy your visits and appreciate your kind words.
Termites are not the problem, though. This is the work of the dreaded pine bark beetle. Once these bugs get through with the wood, the termites won't eat it. They just spit it out and make an even bigger mess! :P

@paroch: You're welcome, Paul. I'm not normally much for plopping either, but sometimes you have to do it if you want to achieve a certain look.
It's always a pleasure to have you stop by for a visit. :)

@capo: Thanks for your kind words. As long as I can remember, I've been very picky about details in everything I do. Guess it's a curse(?) a person is born with! And I love experimenting with custom content and using it in surprising ways.
Glad you could stop by and I hope you'll enjoy Chapter 6. :)






*C 6-1* The most recent development has taken place south of this line.


*C 6-2* This shopping center provides jobs and buying opportunities to residents of the far-south bank.


*C 6-3* Down on the bay front, a surprising area developed at the edge of the newest commercial district.
This is the Warehouse Dinner Theatre where guests enjoy a gourmet meal followed by a one-act play. So far, not a single husband has been able to sleep through all the music and laughter.
The theatre is booked solid until April 15, but they do keep a waiting list in case of a cancellation.


*C 6-4* There are several restaurants just west of the theatre and a new Best Western Hotel.
The twin towers in the background are part of a two-for-one deal Hooter made with a contractor. Sort of a buy-one-get-one-free type of thing.


*C 6-5* This neighborhood was featured in "Americana Revisited" magazine last month.
"It so totally reflects the spirit of the American middle class," the editor said plainly.


*C 6-6* Farther to the south, homes are smaller and there are more "garden" homes with fenced back yards. Renters are responsible for planting, tending and harvesting their own gardens.


*C 6-7* This tiny chapel, bottom center, was landscaped using money raised by the Pitchfork Pass FFA (Future Farmers of America). Those plants eaten by student-raised livestock were replaced free of charge by the Bloomin' Grove Nursery.
City council members publicly thanked all participants at last Tuesday's meeting.


*C 6-8* The shopping center is busy day and night.


*C 6-9* And goodnight, Mrs. Calabash, wherever you are.

Until next time...
Joan

A great storyline you're working with, and great pictures to match. I particularly like C6-5; something about the houses around the roundabout looks so neat. The curved streets look pretty good too (ex C6-6). I have to hand it to you too, the area is spreading out, but it still maintains its personal touches. Thanks for the link to the airstrip. Soon it will have a place near a few of my farms. In regard to your question a few updates ago, I am currently contemplating a career in international law. What area exactly, I'm not sure (though I'm looking into potential summer intern/externships). I have three years though, so there is time to decide. Take it easy, and I'll see you next update.
-Matt

Joan fantastic update here wow.... Hey the pleasure is all mine coming in here and reading and seeing what you have to offer.... Great job and i will see you on the next installment and i look forward to hearing your results of the testing of the nuclear waste program lol ;)

Hi Joan,

Chapter 6 already - time flies eh?

I like the way Pitchfork Pass is developing.  It strikes me that you have planned this out well in advance.  I like the way you can see the main road into/through town, with the larger buildings along this road with the smaller residentials, kind of like sprwaling behind it.  And building styles are so interesting to see.  My residential estates tend to be either straight roads backing onto each other (UK suburban sprawl 1930's to 1960's) or small dead end roads with 'banjos' surrounded by some greenery and trees (UK suburban sprawl 1980's to 2000's).  Your lay out of winding streets that interconnect with each other look really good - I must give that a try sometime.  And nice to see some UK style terraced housing creeping into Pitchfork!

C6-3 - nice BAT, don't recall seeing that before and great little story line with it!  I think theaters is one building type that SC4 is a bit light on.  (This is where anyone is welcome to post linkies to theatres!).

C6-4 - the pedestrian plazas are becoming a feature of Pitchfork - which is great, gives the town a certain look and feel of its own.

C6-5 - I love this type of development.  A picture of suburban peacefulness - you've hit it just right (IMHO).

C6-7 - Great little chapel - not seen it before, and it's always nice to see something new.

How full is the square Pitchfork sits on???  I'm assuming it must be nearly full, if so, what's next?

Another great update Joan.

Paul

Wonderful new update there! Also great pictures of that city! :thumbsup: Congrats on more than 100 comments! &apls

Joan,
nice to see more development in Pitchfork Pass.
great pictures here :thumbsup: i like how the ped plazas look like, i'll try something like that the next time i can play, you gave me some ideas for one of my cities ;)

till next time,
mauricio.

I love the way you've designed your suburban style areas, and the shopping area is great. I love the nightshot!

The history you present for your region really brings it to life...infact, I think its my favorite part.

Over the weekend, my daughter, Julie, and I put the RL rat race aside for a little while and enjoyed the colors of fall here on the edge of the Ozark Mountains.

This is the country lane leading to our home.

It continues east to the top of the hill, and this is part of the view we see from the kitchen window.

Then it curves off to the south, so this is part of the view we see from the left side of the front porch.

Panning to the right, we can see this lake (watershed) built by the State of Arkansas in 1984. I even have a historical marker in my front yard describing the project. BTW, pay no attention to the lady in my front yard. She's a crazy old neighbor who stopped by to borrow my copy of "The Complete Idiot's Guide to City Planning." :P

And here's a closer view of the fall foliage across the lake.

Hope you are enjoying the change of seasons, too, wherever you are.

Until next time...
Joan

What a great update! It looks so real... were you really using in-game pix or actual photos??!!  ;D

I suddenly have an urge to go to Walmart and Food Lion....

Joan those are some awesome pics that you have there.... you have such an eye for pics my friend, great and fantastic job.... sooo yea ummm "The Complete Idiot's Guide to City Planning." hmmm lol anyways we will see you next time - pat

Those are some very nice pics (especially that last one...picture perfect as the saying goes). As for the change of seasons, seasons in Los Angeles don't change too much...but it's kind of nice having summer in January. Hope things are well for you.

Beautiful pictures Joan.  I agree with threestooges I love that last one.

Another great update Joan. I especially like the suburban street layout, not a lot of grids, something I need to learn.

The shopping centres (or should I say malls) look good too. It's the small details that count and as Paroch pointed out, the small chapel is a nice touch.

Thats not a bad backyard you have, reckon we could have a great BBQ there. You spring for everyones airfares and we'll bring the meat  ;D

Cheers

Dave

It reminds me of the 3 years I spent up in New Hampshire; brings back so many nice memories. Thank you for this wonderful update.

@ Matt (threestooges):Thank you. I'm really having fun making up the story as I go. But besides that, I think it helps me be more creative with building use. I doubt if I would have used a logger's shack as a "gourmet" café, a general store as a B&B or a warehouse as a dinner theatre if it were not for the story.
As for the curved streets, you would laugh if you could see how I used to build cities. It was all grids and no frills to say the least! Makes me cringe to think about it.
You're welcome for the link, and best wishes for success in what sounds like an exciting career. :)

@ Pat (patfirefghtr): Thank you. I'm enjoying my visits to your MD as well.
As for the tree tests, PP was virtually dead in the water and I imagine other players have experienced the same problem. Anyway, this is such a simple and effective remedy I think it deserves to be explored further and I'll start sending results ASAP. Just look for the radiation symbol in the subject line. :D
Thanks for stopping by.

@Paul (paroch): Thank you, my friend. Watching the neighborhoods grow is one of my favorite parts of the game.
The parts of Texas I'm familiar with tend to exhibit a wide variety of architectural styles in middle-class neighborhoods. It is not unusual to see a small older home next to a big and newer two-story house.
C 6-3 was inspired by the fact that I had a couple of stage roles and acted as backstage support many times in an amateur theatre during my late teen years. Then the city I moved from a year ago actually had a "Warehouse Theatre," so I just had to have one of my own! ;)
You'll see some stats below in the update.
So glad you stopped by.

@bat: Thanks for your kind words, and thanks for stopping by. :)

@mauricio (figui): Glad to hear W.J. has provided some new ideas. I had never used ped plazas before, but I'm so bad about crowding the commercial areas I decided to give it a try. ::)
Thanks for stopping by.

@nedalezz: Thank you, I enjoy designing neighborhoods now. For years, however, I believed I had stumbled upon a game-design secret which ensured success.
Lay out an entire quad in 5x7 grids, plop schools at predetermined intervals, etc. It's too awful to think about!
And I enjoy writing the story as well. I've always wanted to write fiction! :D

@Schulmanator: Those are actual photos of an in-game location. And if you do go to Wal-Mart, check out the snack aisle because that's where I'll probably be. ;)

@Pat (patfirefghtr): My daughter took the pictures, but I taught her everything she knows! :D
Thanks for stopping by.

@Matt (threestooges): I've never been to California but have relations in Fallbrook (they had to evacuate recently). Anyway, I've heard the beautiful weather is one of the state's greatest natural resources! :)
Glad you stopped by.

@tkirch: Thank you. I will pass your compliment along to my daughter. :)

@tooheys: Hi Dave. Actually the non-grid streets aren't that hard to do once you get the hang of it. At first it took hours to lay out a neighborhood, but with a little practice, it isn't so bad.
As for the BBQ, you're speaking my language now and we'll do it next payday! :thumbsup:

@nedalezz: We do have some pretty scenery here in the fall, but I've heard it's really spectacular farther north.
Anyway, I'm glad the photos stirred up some pleasant memories. :)









^ C 6a-3 And here is an overview of the city. It turned out pretty much the way I'd hoped with mid-rise C and R fading into smaller homes toward the outer edges.
You can expect to see a little more development in P.P. as I pursue a specific regional appearance which I'll show when it is a bit more advanced.



Let's begin with a few current Pitchfork Pass stats:
Population: 160,000
Jobs: 31,500 I and  115,500 C.
Monthly income: §49,358
Monthly expenses: §34,027
C and R demands remain at or near the top for all levels.
Taxes: All but two are at or below 6.5% (high wealth) or 5.5% (Mid-wealth).
Traffic is still moving along well and the Sims seem to be content. The mayor rating has remained at 100% for quite some time now, and desirability factors in all areas are very high.

^ This night shot looked good, but starting off with a seaport and industrial area threw a kink in the RCI balance that never really corrected itself.


^ In the past, I've plopped things like libraries, schools and stadiums wherever they would fit with little thought of anything but functionality. So making civic necessities serve as park-like areas is a welcome departure from the norm for me.

^ I should have started out with farms and rural neighborhoods instead of ending up with them. Actually, this is a departure from my normal playing style as well, but turned out to be mistake which won't happen again.

^ I can proudly say griddy neighborhoods are a thing of the past. I decided to look back at this shot just because I like it!

^ The Wild West Town was a popular attraction created just for fun. I have included far more details in P.P. than I've ever put in a city before.



Have you ever heard the classic expression, "Go west young man!" Well, that's just what we'll be doing in the next update. See you there, y'all.

Until next time...
Joan

Fabulous update again, loved that region pic and the shorelines look so beautiful.

Truly wonderful work indeed Joan, always a pleasure to return and view the updates.  :)

great update Joan!

i like how pp has turned out, and i must agree with you: i allways return to an already developed city when i want something specific from the regional view (well, normally i play with more than one tile simultaneously, so i'm allways returning to every city, then to the next one and back to the first.. and looking at the regional view as that zone of the region is being developed)
the last area developed is particularly great!
and nice one with the stats and the "travel through pp" in the rearview mirror &apls

mauricio.

The overview shot is pretty nifty, but I think the rearview retrospective is a really nice touch (especially since you explain what you did, why you liked/didn't like it, and what you would do differently). I also like the selection of pic for it. It really shows off some of the finer creations and details you have created. I hope your relations are alright and back in their home in Fallbrook. I didn't have to evacuate myself (fortunately) but it was interesting (I live in Costa Mesa) to see so many fires pop up so quickly within the time period. The weather has been nice lately though (about 80 degrees F today). Hope the weather was nice out your way today too. See you around the next update.

A good update! :P

By the moving west, I gather you're doing what one could consider Pitchfork Valley. :P


Good luck, and hopefully you'll find ways to fix the little mistakes that you think you've made (:P) in Pitchfork Pass.

Wonderful new update there!
Great overview of that city! Fantastic work!
Looking forward to more...

Hi Joan,

An absolutely lovely update and a nice way to say goodbye to Pitchfork Pass.  It's been great following your first city and your presntation and story lines have made it a pleasure.  I like the way the city's turned out, as you intimated yourself, the way the higher rise buildings slowly turn into a suburban sprawl (if you'll pardon the expression) is very well done and realistic.

Nice round up and stats as well.  Interesting that you get such a positive cash flow.  I tend to leave tax rates pretty much alone and often scrape by until I build a few Helvetia plants which roll in the cash!

Send my regards to Hooter, and hopefully we'll meet another colourful character next time.

All the best,

Paul

Heya Joan and its good to come back to Wj its allways a great visit here!!! I'll be watching for the test reports  ;) you are too amazing my friend and will see you around - pat

I loved the information given on Pitchfork Pass; it seems like the perfect midsized, midwestern town. I love the atmosphere of the place!

Come to think of it, its so pretty that even PP reminds me of the time I spent in New Hampshire!

Very nice updates, Im particularely fond of the 3rd picture in your last update: the overview of Pitchfork Pass. It makes me wish that I could 'log in' to your city and have a look at it myself. I can already see myself being stuck to the screen for hours in a row, since you put in so much detail and thought with every small piece of this town.

Looking forward going west!

(Go West) Life is peaceful there
(Go West) In the open air
(Go West) Where the skies are blue
(Go West) This is what we're gonna do
From the Petshop Boys-Go West

Joan,

Fantastic Update!!  I love seeing unique things in MD's and your Look in the Rearview Window is just that.  That is just a great idea.  I love the way you told us how you built this city and what your thinking was when you did that.  It adds a whole new perspective and it also helps people that are looking to build, they will know what works for them or not.  Just great!!!

Hello Joan,

I'm very sorry for such long absence!

Your RL pictures are really beautiful! I would like to live in such charming place, now I live in the large settlement, fortunately there are much trees between blocks and my house is located near the city border, I have only 5 minutes by car to the nearest forest (it's very important for me and for my dog :)) I'm going to built a house outside of the city, but it will need some time ;)
I love fall (in fact I like all seasons), the fall in Poland is beautiful too (we call this season "Polish Golden Autumn"), we have usually about 3 weeks of warm sunny weather at this time. I was going to make a trip around my city (it is surrounded by hills, they look beautiful in autumn) and make some pictures for all of you, but unfortunately I had a lot of work, so I must wait till the next year.

Your last updates are fantastic, I think you put much heart in making your cities and landscapes, all of them have a specific cheerful atmosphere.
And all your pictures are beautifully presented, it's a great pleasure to visit you here!

Thank you Joan for this nice while reading your MD!

More great stuff!  :thumbsup: And I like the RL pix - very fall-like (my fave season).  :thumbsup:
Let's meet up in the snack aisle. I am on a quest for Salsa Doritos!   %confuso

Hey Capo, didn't the Village People sing that ;D They did have an Indian and a Cowboy $%Grinno$%

Oh yeah , forgot why I was here. Joan that's a beautiful overview. Your work just gets better and better.  I
really like C 6a-2, nice work with the coastline  :thumbsup:

That's a decent sized region you have there, plenty of undeveloped space, hope you stick with it (where have I heard that before :P).

Cheers

Dave

@All: I'm glad to know many of you enjoyed the "RearView Mirror" feature. As far as I know, it's a unique idea which you'll see again from time to time, especially when a large and/or complex city is in play.
I follow several MDs and often find myself wondering why the author did this or that, what they wish they'd done differently, etc.
Also I want RVM will be a forum which encourages reader comments on likes and dislikes.
Anyway...

Let's get on with the replies for real now!

@Emperor Stormont: Thanks for your kind words, and I'm glad to hear you enjoy your visits in The Junction.

@mauricio (figui): I've already added a minor touch to P.P. in order to achieve the region view I want. It isn't quite ready for prime time, but will be soon, I promise.
Thanks for stopping by.

@Matt (threestooges): Glad you liked the RVM feature. I enjoyed creating it. I tried to use at least one photo from each chapter, and going back was a real trip! I'd be willing to bet most authors don't remember what's on page 1 by the time they get to page 7!
My cousin and her husband (who is not in the best of health) are just fine and their home was spared. Thank you for asking. We did have a cool front move through yesterday, but I have a generous supply of sweaters and fleece pants, so I'm ready for anything!

@Shadow Assassin: We will, indeed be moving across those little hills and down into the valley.
Creating an MD has been an enlightening experience to say the least! I can recall hundreds of excuses I could have used to demolish P.P. But each time I was tempted, I remembered Dave's (tooheys) words. In essence, he told me that when you do an MD, you learn to solve your problems, not blow them up.
How true!

@bat: Thanks for stopping by, and I appreciate the compliment!

@Paul (paroch): Don't worry, P.P. is just on hold and not gone forever. And you haven't seen the last of Hooter either! There are only four mayors in Wildcat Junction, and they don't pay much attention to Maxis boundaries.
You will meet the other three eventually and discover they're as different as any four characters could be.
I always love it when I see a paroch e-mail in the inbox!

@Pat (patfirefghtr): Glad to hear you enjoy your visits to WJ. I enjoy them, too!

@nedalezz: I've never traveled farther north than Denver, Colorado (Pikes Peak) and I spent a day there when I was 13. I lived in south-central Missouri for a couple of years, but the northeastern states are almost like a different country so I've heard.
Nevertheless, if W.J. brings back memories of your visits to the U.S., maybe I'm doing something right!

@capo: Thanks for the kind words. And you're right, about the details, but they're both a blessing and a curse. As an MD author, I know I spend too much time on details nobody but me will ever see, but it's gotta' be my way or the highway!
The Petshop Boys' song is right on target, too. I like it.

@tkirch: I'm glad you liked the RVM feature. You can expect to see it again from time to time, but it will take you by surprise!

@Ennedi: And it's a pleasure to see you back for another visit to W.J.
You are right about the "heart" I put into my updates, although I didn't think of it that way before. Still, if it doesn't suit me, it doesn't get published.
Hope you like the next update even though the complete area will take a bit more time.

@Schulmanator: Thank you m'dear, and I enjoyed the basket of fresh fruit they gave me at the Gilded Banana.
Did you know they have some banana-flavored snack crackers on the shelf at Wal-Mart now? OK, I don't like 'em either, but there are some terrific banana-nut marshmallow-filled cookies out there that are divine.
**Gains 10 pounds just thinking about it!**

@tooheys: Thank you for the kind words, but good, bad or ugly, it's all your fault – you taught me everything I know!
There are four playable large-size quads in W.J. with three along the coastline, so there will be plenty of opportunities to experiment with new ideas. And as you meet the other three mayors, you'll find they have very different development priorities.
Thanks for stopping by, and don't worry. We have only just begun!



^ C 7-1: Hooter and I had a knock-down, drag-out shouting match a dignified and professional discussion about whether or not to publish this overview.
I was able to convince him, however, that some of our readers enjoy seeing areas develop from start to finish.
The Editor rules!

^ C 7-map: We'll be working with four new cities to fill out the area south of the Pitchfork River. In RL, Norman Hill, Mustang, Coon Creek and Meridian are located in Bosque County, about 100 miles (160 km) southwest of Dallas. My late aunt and uncle owned an 1,800-acre cattle ranch in the area, and the time I spent there ranks among my fondest childhood memories.
The countryside boasts beautiful rolling hills covered with cedar, pine and oak trees.

^ C 7-2: Norman Hill is a tiny farming community with most of the homes spread across the hills.

^C 7-3: Here's another look at the residential area showing the rocky landscape.

^C 7-4: This was a good year for corn and pole beans, but the wheat crop was a little ragged.

^C 7-5: The elementary school, top center, has a student body of 167.

^C 7-6: The Norman Hill Independent School District operates on a limited budget, but voters approved a bond issue last month for construction of a new high school.
The issue passed after the school board agreed to let upper-school students study oil-well drilling techniques. Most of them get enough agricultural training at home anyway.

^C 7-7: The Norman Hill General Hospital was built in the late 1950s. Then a new entry area was designed by one of the doctors three years ago. He's sort of a weekend landscaper – the rest of the time he's an optometrist.

^C 7-8: This little red church sits atop a steep bluff. Look closely and you can see members walking across the trail headed for the sanctuary.

^C 7-9: Several members are returning for evening worship services.
Hope you have a good evening wherever you are

Until next time...
Joan

Lookin' good Joan.  I was literally about to go and get some zzzzz's and saw you'd posted so couldn't resist a peak.

A more detailed response to follow - but needless to say I LIKE IT!!!! :thumbsup:

Paul

wow Joan, Norman Hill looks really nice. must have been very difficult to build on such slopes. the red church looks nice also :thumbsup:

mauricio.

C7-8 and C7-9 made my day! Those are some really nice shots. I also like what you've done with an otherwise headache-inducing terrain; you've gone ahead and made it some of the best steep developments I have seen in SC. You are definitely talented in that department; I cant work with steep terrain for the life of me.

Great update, Joan, you really are a natural at this, and the story is fantastic!

Another fantastic update.  I love the little red church and the path.

The houses on the hills look great and everything fits in so well.  Just great update Joan.

Joan, the first two suburban shots are just great, the way you have used the terrain, the cliff faces and landscape, hard to fault  &apls

Now I have to ask, where did you find those beautiful little churches you show, a very nice touch  :thumbsup:

Quote@tooheys: Thank you for the kind words, but good, bad or ugly, it's all your fault – you taught me everything I know!

Well I'll accept full responsibility $%Grinno$% but I can tell you one thing Joan, I'm certainly learning a few things by dropping in here. ;)

Cheers

Dave

Great pictures of that new area! Wonderful work on that hill, also on the farms! :thumbsup:

Quote from: Jmouse on November 19, 2007, 02:06:59 PM
@capo: Thanks for the kind words. And you're right, about the details, but they're both a blessing and a curse. As an MD author, I know I spend too much time on details nobody but me will ever see, but it's gotta' be my way or the highway!

I know how you feel, a very long time ago I read a CJ on ST (I think), in there was one lesson I never forgot: First think of how you want it, then built it..and most important: when you don't like it : blam, remove and start all over. Sometimes it hard when you consider how much work has gotten into it, but in the end you know it was all worth it. When I see the pics you posted I can only imagine how many things were first removed to get to this end result.

About your update:
I'm glad that you and Hooter settled your differences through a dignified and professional discussion. I'm glad you convinced him because it's really good to see the overview of this region....oh I can only imagine how it will all look like when the whole region is filled up :) Your pictures are just stunning, I'm really lost for words. I don't think there is one thing in those pictures that doesn't belong there. Well...perhaps the crane wich looks a bit odd in my opinion, can't tell you exactly why. Your farm pics show a nice spread and variation of colour. The relaxed atmosphere in an average farming community really shows off in the pictures as well.

Great work!

Joan wonderful job here my friend, yet anther fantastic update here!!! See you soon and on to the next update - pat

@Dave (tooheys): You can find the little red church by daytrpr here: Linkie (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?id=3020)
And while you're in the neighborhood, just use the keyword "church" and you'll find a bunch more. Simgoober has posted several really nice ones.
More replies coming up soon.

Until next time...
Joan

The most obvious thing I can see here is how well you've hidden the vast majority of retaining walls by using trees and a clever use of perspective. Good job, and keep it up.

Hi Joan,

Ok, I've had time to have a proper look now.  The overview is really good.  I ;ile to see how things are developing and that shows us really well. 

The rock mod works really nicely and gives Norman Hill its own unique feel.  Certainly I can tell its no longer Pitchfork Pass, which I'm guessing is what you wanted to achieve.

The farms are nice and I like the dirt roads.  I don't have any of those - maybe I should some time - so a little linkie would be kind ()stsfd().

Someone mentioned the crane doesn't fit and I agree - but surely that's the whole point I guess.  You're showing us the development and a big blue crane just looks ugly in sich nice rural setting - but in real life they need big ugly blue cranes.  So on balance I think it's good you included it.

In C7-7 I like both the art deco style hospital (I'd have guessed 1930's) and also the yellow and blue buildings n the left of the pic - are they resi or comm?

And of course the little red churchis to die for.  Would look silly in an urban setting but in Normal Hill it is perfect.

Top job Joan :thumbsup:

Paul

I just read the whole story from page one. "$Deal"$
Beautiful!
I love the way you succeed to overcome the grid problem. Still a lot to learn for me.
I usually tend to be impatient and want my areas to develop. So no hours of laying down streets and roads....
You spend a lot of time on micro management of your areas. And it's worth every minute of it.
&apls

I'm glad they got out alright and that they had a house to return to. Glad to hear that you are prepared for the elements as well. I like the first picture: the way to cliffs just blend into the landscape, and the house blend into the cliffs (hope landslides aren't a problem...). I like the elementary school you've put together. The playground looks really realistic. The high school looks like it'll be a fair sized structure, and the oil fields should provide a "golden" opportunity for the students. Nice job with the optometrist thing as well... the roundabouts really make that work. It's little details like these (not forgetting the church as well) that really make this MD stand out. Hope all is well.

@ Paul (paroch): Hope you were able to get enough sleep. I never did when I was working, raising a family and doing all that other stuff you have to do before you retire!
And I'm glad you like Norman Hill. :)

@ Mauricio (figui): The slopes were a bit challenging, but there are a few tricks you can use to make things a bit easier without a lot of tiresome terraforming. And I love that pretty little church too. :)

@nedalezz: I'm so glad you liked the little red church. The moment I saw it, I knew it needed a special place in rural W.J.
And thanks for the compliment. I enjoy working on steep terrain within reason, but sometimes it gets frustrating.
As for the story, I guess it's a little like writing a book. You actually get acquainted with your characters in a surreal sort of way, but I'll bet you already knew that! :D

@tkirch: Thank you. In the past I've never used small quads for anything but I-D and garbage dumps which is pretty unrealistic. But this time I enjoyed the experience of making Norman Hill into a nice little country town. :)

@Dave (tooheys): Thank you, Dave. As for learning anything from me, it's hard to believe that's possible, but if it's so, it would please me to no end!  ()stsfd()

@bat: Thank you, and thanks for stopping by. :)

@capo: Not long after I registered at SC4D, I read a post by jeronij (if memory serves me correctly) which contained much the same kind of message – if it isn't right, it won't work so don't hesitate to get rid of it and try again.
I don't know that he meant we should destroy the whole city and start over and over and over again, but I've taken that radical approach too often in the past.  Hosting an MD is forcing me to keep my hand off the detonator's handle, though, and I now realize that's the only way I'll ever learn more! Also, I back up the region every day before I start work on it so I can go back in time if I need to.
And you're right about the crane. I don't much care for it either (we need one that's a bit more weathered) but I was racing the clock. I wanted to get the update done before the business of Thanksgiving got too busy!
I'm so glad you're enjoying your visits to W.J., and I thank you for your kind words. :)

@Pat (Pat): You're the one who got me into this MD mess, and now all you can do is nag about the next update! :P
Still, I'm always pleased to see you (for some reason! ;)), I'm glad you like the work and I thank you for being a loyal supporter. :)

@Shadow Assassin: Thank you. Plopable trees are wonderful, aren't they!  ;)

@Paul (paroch): You are right, I did make a change after reading through Ennedi's terrain tutorial, and I like it much better. I was using gray marble rock before.
You are not alone in your opinion of that crane, and I'll be looking for something with more eye appeal.
The hospital was designed to look like the one where Hooter was born, and the original version was built around 1926. The 1950s replica in Norman Hill does have more modern facilities, though, and has now been upgraded to handle computerized equipment.
The buildings you mentioned are called Province House Credit Union by spa (CS and CO  $$$ versions included) and can be found here:
Linkie (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?id=18590)
I'm still working on an answer to your other question and will PM.
So glad you stopped by again, my friend. :)

@FrankU: Welcome to Wildcat Junction. I thought I was the only one who had read every word!
As for The Big "Grid/Anti-Grid" Debate, there are plenty of examples in the MDs on SC4D showing that both approaches can be used with great success.
Thanks for stopping by, and please don't be a stranger, y'all! :)

@threestooges: Hey, good to see you back!
I know where you're comin' from, but it'll be OK, we don't get many rockslides in Texas.
And congratulations, you're the only one who mentioned the optometry connection. :thumbsup: It wasn't what I had in mind, but suddenly there it was so I rode the wave. :P
And since you have such a keen eye, I hope you'll enjoy this mini-update.


Keeping up with Hooter's development agenda this week has me feeling like a bullfrog that can't find her lily pad.
Currently we're working with three active cities in Bosque County to create a seamless regional transition. One day we're in Norman Hill, the next we're walking the sticky new streets in Mustang and by early afternoon we're back in Pitchfork Pass.

^Bn-2 1: Hooter has decided to develop a little more land in Pitchfork Pass, and he sold this chunk of real estate to a local builder.
The house is almost finished, and it looks like several sub-contractors are meeting with the builder in the front yard.
It was the afternoon shadows that got my attention, though, especially those cast by the fences.

^Bn-2 2: Just to the northwest, a new Bed & Breakfast is already booked up into next year.
But once again, it was the shadows that caught my eye, especially the one of the fence across the rocky slope on the right side. I've never seen anything like it before.

The high school in Norman Hill is finished, but Mustang isn't quite ready for prime time yet.
Soon, however, very soon!

Until next time...
Joan

Great bonus update there! Also very nice two new pictures! :thumbsup:

two great pictures for a great bonus update :thumbsup:
i agree: the shadows in those pics are real "eye catchers" (i really don't know how to say that :P)
(btw: who's fences are that?)

mauricio.

Hey Joan,

A verynice "bonus" update there.  And you are spot on about those shadows - they look awesome.  I think you know I'm having a few shadow issues at the moment, so you know I'm gonna ask what settings you are using on the graphic options.

And I agree with figui - where can I get those fences???

Great work Joan, your MD is going from strength to strength.

Paul

Hi guys!
You can find those fences here:  Linkie (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?id=16381).
Enjoy.

Until next time...
Joan

thanks, i must give them a try ;) (asap)

mauricio.

btw: you reached your own page 9 :P

Nice teaser, Joan. You have an excellent style of development that is all your own, I know when I'm looking at Wildcat Junction without having to check the title.

I never put as much detail into the plopped aspects as you do, I think that it what makes this MD special.

Cheers,
Kevin

QuoteThe house is almost finished, and it looks like several sub-contractors are meeting with the builder in the front yard.

They're probably after money ;D

What, you're only juggling 3 cities, it only gets worse  ;)

Nice couple of pic's Joan, I'm continued to be impressed by your landscape work.  :thumbsup: And I see what you mean about the shadows, they really do add to the scene.

Thanks for the link to the church.

Cheers

Dave

Fabulous update Joan, looking gorgeous, I love that rock mod, really sets everything off so well.

I loved the developments from the previous updates with the stepped/terraced look, the region image of Norman Hill was also just lovely, I adore the use of trees and green spaces (as I know your aware of :) ) so always lovely to see such a green area,

Fantastic work Joan  &apls

@ bat: Thank you, and thanks for stopping by. :)

@ maruicio (fugui): I'm always on the lookout for little surprises in the game, and when I saw the shadows, I thought they were eye catching, too, and that's the reason I shared them! :)

@ Paul (paroch): At the time those photos were taken, I was set on high shadows. I do lower some of the settings during game play, though, to reduce lag time.
It's always a pleasure to see you stop by, and I hope you'll enjoy using the fences. :)

@Kevin (BigSlark): I appreciate your kind words, although I never thought of my style as unique in any way.
As for the details, I guess it comes naturally.
As for the photos, my late husband was a well-trained photographer during the four years he served in the U.S. Air Force in the 1960s. He taught me to frame my photos by looking at all angles, and his advice has stayed with me.
Thanks for stopping by! :)

@Dave (tooheys): There's no way it could get any worse! %confuso
Thanks for standing by me, though, and I'm glad you like the landscaping.
And you're welcome for the little red church link. Sometimes custom content sort of speaks to you in a special way. :)

Emperor Stormont: Thank you so much, and thanks for stopping by.
Over the years, it's been a struggle to depart from the pack-'em-in-like-sardines syndrome.
Now, however, I just try to think about driving along a road somewhere.  How does the countryside look, how can I tell I'm getting near a city or town, etc.? I haven't yet answered these questions in game to my complete satisfaction, but I like to think I'm getting there.
Hope you'll enjoy the next update. :)

Here's one last look at Norman Hill!

^C 8-1: The Norman Hill High School is finished and the oil wells are pumping 24/7.

As a farming community, Norman Hill had reached a population of 5,500 by its 10th year with 3,863 C-jobs and 581 I-jobs. The town's income exceeds expenses by about §2,900 per month.

Here are a few charts:







^C 8-2: Mustang is more focused on commercial development than its sister city, Norman Hill.
In fact, despite a population of only 7,600, there are 16,221 C-jobs available. (Yes, I double checked that figure with the Mustang Workforce Commission.)

^C 8-3: The school in Mustang is small and lacks the facilities found in larger cities. The need for studies in the field of animal husbandry has not been overlooked, however. Students simply walk across the road and tend to the coach's livestock.
The school district receives an average of four applications per month for the coaching job.

^C 8-4: The City Hall is a beauty spot in Mustang's commercial district. It is said residents like the building and grounds so much, they gripe less about paying their taxes here. Of course, "less" does not mean total silence.

^C 8-5: This industrial park in the town's southern sector provides 3,268 manufacturing jobs.



^C 8-8: And we'll end on a mysterious note - graffiti without walls! ;)

To be continued...
Joan

Mustang looks great, and I especially liked 8.1, 8.4, and 8.7. The park around the Independence Hall is fantastic; you really made something ordinary look so beautiful. And in that first picture, the way you designed the oil pumps, simply beautiful!

The town is, as always, a delight. But, your artists must be absolutely top-notch to have developed wall-less grafitti!  :satisfied:

I have no more to say than: beautiful! &apls
It's always good to watch someone else's pictures. Brings new ideas.
I do really suffer from the Cram-them-in-a-tiny-spot syndrome. Though I like to make rural areas, it costs me a lot of effort to not put everything too close together. :-[
You do that beautifully.
Your cityhall is great with the park and all. :thumbsup:
By the way: from day to night picture of it you had a really good development!

Can't wait for your next moves.

Great first pictures of Mustang and nice update! Wonderful work! :thumbsup:

Mustang is looking really nice :thumbsup:
i esp like the city hall area, with that night pic (8.7)
great update.

mauricio.

Hi Joan,

Mustang is looking good.  I love that city hall building, nice choice.  It sits really well in the park and I even notice an old style UK telephone box next to the bus stop.  Does the city communications director have a thing for English design icons?? ;)

The coach's farm is a nice addition to the city - nice pic!

And the graphs are good to see as well - gives a flavour of what's happening under the skin of the city.

Is there a graph that shows how many girls are called Sally in the town ;)

Looking forward to the next update,

Paul

Wow, two updates have come around already... finals season is coming up, so I've been a bit busy (and will likely get busier). The fence shadows are very interesting; especially the second pic. Did that just happen, or did you plan it that way? The oil field is well done. You've done a nice job of concealing the fact that they are square lots and the tree line looks really natural. The school seems to be doing its job too considering the graph you've shown. You've done a great job building on the slope in C8-3. The city hall gardens are specatular both in and out of the flowering season. Grafitti without walls though... must be quick drying paint, or some new art technique. Hope all is well with you, and I'll look forward to the next update.

@nedalezz: Thank you. I'm glad to hear you like the little towns. I've never before developed a small quad for anything other than I-D and garbage disposal, but I've enjoyed exploring new possibilities.
And we do have a lot of oil wells in Texas. Seeing a few pumps in a big pasture is nothing new to me! ;)

@Schulmanator: Your visits and kind words are always appreciated. We do, indeed, have some talented artists in Texas, but this work looks a bit like some done by a furry little tourist wearing a big yellow hat.
Mmmmm. The mystery deepens. :P

@FrankU: Thank you for stopping by. You are absolutely right about looking at photos by other players for inspiration.
Wildcat Junction is wildly different from anything I've ever done before and I've made plenty of mistakes, but I'm learning a lot in the process.
And on the subject of taking photos, sometimes development does occur between shots because I don't always use the first one I get. Or the second, or the third or on and on. It's enough to drive an old lady nuts! %confuso

@bat: Glad to hear you like Mustang and hope you'll enjoy "the rest of the story!" :)

@(Mauricio) figui: Thank you. I tried at least a dozen different parks before deciding on the crepe myrtle. I liked the flowers, but especially liked the way the brick paths worked. :)

@Paul (paroch): I look forward to your visits because you always have kind words, but also because you point out things I didn't notice. Are you talking about the red structure by the bus stop in C 8-4? If so, I had no idea that's what it was!
As for the graphs, showing pretty pictures doesn't mean a city or region is successful, so I like to see "what's happening under the skin of the city." That is an excellent way of putting it, BTW. Wish I'd thought of it!
The latest count shows Mustang has 81 girls named Sally within the city limits. Hope that helps. :P
And you won't have long to wait for the last OSITM update.

@threestooges: Glad you could spare a few moments to drop by for a visit. I know all about finals as I watch my daughter with her nose stuck in a book all the time!
No, I didn't plan the shadows, they just happened, but I thought they were nifty enough to share.
Actually the oil field lots fit together pretty well with a minimum of destruction.
As for the City Hall, I love landscaping as long as I can do it on the computer. In RL, however, I don't do dirt, bugs or any of the other unpleasant things that go along with yard work!
Good luck with your school work. :thumbsup:

@ All Many thanks to everyone who has made OSITM an experience I'll never forget. Your suggestions, your support, your patience and your willingness to get into the story are more than I ever dreamed possible.
Y'all are the best! &apls



At age 6, Mustang has a commute time of 20 minutes, down from 70 early on, and traffic is moving smoothly in all sectors. The population stands at 7,600 and the city's income exceeds expenses by more than §4,000 per month.
The only common civic service lacking is a police station, but Hooter prefers to reduce crime by increasing educational opportunities and beautifying the city. Currently the EQ is 60, but significant gains are expected to occur in the next few years.

^C 8-9: This town is zoned mainly for medium-density development, unlike Norman Hill which is mostly low density. But who knows what will happen. Nothing is written in granite.

^C 8-10: Mustang has fewer farms than Pitchfork Pass or Norman Hill, but most of the farmers are doing well.

^C 8-11: There is a lot of corn in Mustang, and rumor has it there are a couple of stills as well.

^C 8-12: Looks like this pig farmer told his kid to go fly a kite.

^C 8-13: Mustang is a young city with constant development and re-development in the neighborhoods. Eventually, this one will find a style to call its own. There's a rural fire house in the lower right corner, and isn't that Pat's car headed for the station?

^C 8-14: The medium-density zoning has created some unusual housing combinations, but keep in mind that Mustang is still a child. If time permits, we'll revisit this up-and-coming town.

^C 8-15: Unlike the others, this neighborhood has developed in a more traditional way with typical middle-class homes throughout. It sits between farm land to the right and commercial development on the left.

^C 8-16: I love this little church and cemetery and took several pictures of it, but this is the one that will go into the historical documentary I've been hired to create.


Until next time...
Joan

     ooh, wonderful. I especially like the farming shots: suburban farming. who'da thunk it?  $%Grinno$%

-Jamie

Hi Joan,

First of all - congratulations and well done on an excellent month in OSITM. 

And yes, the red "structure" is possibly the single most iconic image of British 20th century design!!!! ;)

Here's a pic of a British telephone box, with a Red London Bus in the background:
(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fimg124.imageshack.us%2Fimg124%2F2320%2Fphoneboxis3.jpg&hash=8263c47ae1ddd0a8b6b053aa45c959bc42b28424)

The boxes are becoming less and less common in the UK nowadays as they are replaced with more modern ones (that are dull) or removed all together (everyone has mobile phones these days).  So it was nice to see a little piece of the UK appear in deepest Texas.

Glad to hear that there are plenty of Sallys in Mustang :D

Now.... the first thing I notice this time is you even have the simoleon symbol - how'd ya do THAT??

C8-9 the overview is real nice.  Those commercial buildings with pink paved ped plazas around them are becoming a Jmouse trademark I feel.  Having said that, I've kinda copied that in a city I'm developing at the moment (not sure I get it done quite as good as you).

C8-11 has some lovely houses there.  They go together real well too.

C8-12 the pig farm with the slurry pits is a good one too.  It never ceases to amaze me how many BATS there are out there that you've never seen before.

C8-13 nice fire station.  And I guess that must be Pat.

C8-16  I can see why you love the church  :thumbsup:

Lovely update Joan - see you in "Bestsellers"

Paul

Joan, your time is almost up in OFITM and what a great month you have had. :thumbsup:

Your latest updates show that you do have what it takes (whether you believe it or not) to
create a great MD and if you stick with it, this will soon be a classic.

C 8-9 clearly shows how well you work with the terrain, a beautiful pic.
But I think it's the minor details that standout, the church and cemetry, the city hall, the farms on
the slopes, all impressive.

Wildcat Junction is a pleasure to visit  &apls

Cheers

Dave

Yes, a wonderful new update of Mustang which is looking fantastic!

Looking forward to more...

another great update  &apls
the last night pic is awesome

mauricio.

I've been quite busy for awhile so had a lot to check up on.  You did a great job on Norman Hill and Mustang.

C8-9 is a great overall pictures.  You are doing a great job here and it looks great.

More awesome pix! The town looks like the cooolest one in Texas!

And, as for the artist in question (re: post above)

(https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fstore.sunburst.com%2FImages%2FProducts%2FHGM11986.JPG&hash=4e2fa9dad1b35edc5cecd72747b162c7edd74ea9)
I believe I have seen his work before...

@All: I haven't forgotten about you. It's just that the harsh reality of college finals is hanging over our house like a dark cloud this week as I try to help my daughter study for hers which begin tomorrow morning.

But let's get down to business now!

@Jamie (keyboardconfessional): Thank you. But "who'da thunk it?" You must have gone to school in Texas! :P

@Paul (paroch): Thank you.
I love that picture you posted, and had no idea there was a pretty red UK phone booth in W.J.!

^Here's what we used to have. You could go inside, shut out the background noise and talk as long as you liked for a dime, but I haven't seen one in 30-40 years.

^Now we do well to find an ugly thing like this, probably because of cell phones as you said.

Glad to hear you like the way things are developing, and I'm growing rather fond of the ped tiles myself.
I create my scripts and replies in MS Word ahead of time so all I have to do is copy and paste. If you want the Simoleon symbol, just use the Alt+I shortcut in MSW, click on the symbol and press Enter twice.
And I hope you'll show us your work with ped tiles.
BTW, Mustang Sally has left the building, but she'll be back! ;)

@Dave (tooheys): You are just too good to me!
I don't know about ever making it to classic status, but I never thought I'd get this far either.
As a cockeyed perfectionist, I was shaking all over when I made my grand entrance and tripped over my own angst. Within a few days, I'd figured out how I could cover up the worst mistakes, but by then they were a part of the MD and I decided they should be left alone.
So if I rise to classic status, I will be pleased. If I finish the region, I will be both pleased and proud. If I enable a would-be MDer to realize you can stumble and still be successful, I will feel that I have reached a small measure of greatness.
Thank you for your continued support and encouragement.
Now, get back to work! :D

@bat: Thanks for stopping by. We'll be going west and north in the next few updates, so fix that squeaky wheel on the covered wagon and get ready to move 'em out! ::)

@Mauricio (figui): I love the night shots, too. Thanks for stopping by. :)

@tkirch: Glad to hear you like the overview and the small towns. When I look at an MD I like to know what's going on behind the pretty pictures. So I try to provide a little extra info for those "enquiring minds" that want to know. ;)

@Schulmanator: Mmmm. Wish I could paint upside down. Bet I'd be rich instead of gorgeous! ()stsfd()
Unfortunately, the graffiti has disappeared into the night, leaving behind a mystery which may never be solved. But you never know, maybe C.G. will come back for another visit. I'll leave the light on for him and a banana in the mailbox. :D

Quote from: Jmouse on November 23, 2007, 10:23:02 PM
@Pat (Pat): You’re the one who got me into this MD mess, and now all you can do is nag about the next update! :P
Still, I’m always pleased to see you (for some reason! ;)), I'm glad you like the work and I thank you for being a loyal supporter. :)

Joan its been awhile as i said in a PM to you... WOW you are my friend truely are and you have done some wonderful stuff here!!! With your daughters exams coming up and hogging the puter well needless to say im sitting and waiting patiently for the next update of Wj to come to a puter screen near me soon lol.... Your Friend in the northwoods pat

btw i loved the pat (pat) thingie lol heheeh

Beautiful work. Can't wait for a new update.

The Simoleon symbol: it is the old fashioned pragraph symbol. I find it on my keyboard (win XP, keyboard settings US international) under ctrl-shift-alt-s! Easier and available everywhere.

§ § § § § Yeah!

@Pat: Hey there, my friend, hope all is well in the north woods.
Julie's last two finals are tomorrow, and since her brain is saturated, I found a bit of time to do an update. Hope you enjoy it. :)

@FrankU: Well, your wait is over. Hope you enjoy your visit to Meridian.
And thanks for the heads-up on the Simoleon symbol. It doesn't work on my keyboard, but it's certainly a helpful tip for folks to try. :thumbsup:


^C 9-1: Meridian is a mixture of necessary elements just like any other growing town.

^C 9-2: The city has only one school which is large enough to accommodate young Sims from age 5 to 18. Classes cover every subjects from world history to worm farming – from art to agriculture.

^C 9-3: To the east is a unique idea Mayor Hooter Hillcrank set in motion to promote family values. It is a park where workers can join their children for a picnic lunch. Gazebos provide shelter in bad weather.

^C 9-4: One of the park trails ends at the hospital on the right, and the other leads to Meridian's industrial area on the left. Parents are encouraged to spend their lunch hour in the picnic area, or students may join their parents at the workplace.

^C 9-5: For now, most of the workforce is engaged in industrial manufacturing. The mayor is already negotiating with high-tech companies as the overall EQ improves, however.

^C 9-6: The Meridian General Hospital is located on one of the highest points in the city. Due to the sloping terrain visitors and employees are urged to set the parking brake on all unoccupied vehicles.

^C 9-7: The Hillside Mall, appropriately named for its multi-level design, offers a variety of spending opportunities. Council members are confident that Meridian's rapid population growth will spawn much more commercial growth. In fact, they have already given themselves three raises this year in anticipation of a broader tax base.

^C 9-8: The upper tier features Burger King and Chuck-E-Cheese Restaurants for the kids, and a Circuit City for parents. How about that, everything a happy family could want in one convenient location!

^C 9-9: On the lower tier, Michael's satisfies the hunger for creative pursuits while Piggly Wiggly satisfies the other kind of hunger.

^C 9-10: To the west is a modest community church.

^C 9-11: The old cemetery above it dates back to the early 19th century, and rumor has it the Bonnie and Clyde are buried here. Researchers have been unable to confirm or deny this claim.


^C 9-12, 13: At dusk, the helicopter pilot was kind enough to make one final pass over the hospital and the Mall.

^C 9-14: Then he hovered over the church for several minutes and explained what appeared to be disembodied headlights on the roundabout. Actually, it's just a Jeep painted in camouflage colors, he said.

And to all a good night!

Until next time...
Joan

nice update Joan!

lovely little town, and it has every necessary element to live there.. it only needs a football (soccer) field  :P

love the retaining walls, esp that stairs at the church's back.

mauricio.

:thumbsup: &apls :thumbsup: &apls :thumbsup: &apls

Joan fantastic Update here my friend... Hey have been doing some lot work there on micheals and the Pig???  Where did you get that church its very catholic? I do love the stairway... Ive been a busy little bee lately but other then that Im sooo glad you got in and updated... - pat

That's some good camoflauge. Perhaps done by the same person that did the wall-less graffiti (just painted a camoflauge wall)? Your school grounds continue to be well laid out. I would suggest adding a staircase between the levels of the shopping area, the drive may not be that long, but it might be faster to just go right up the hill. Hope your daughter's finals are going well, law finals are under way now so I should be wrapping up the semester next Monday. Hope her last two finals go well, and I'll see you next update.

Joan,
You put so much effort in especially your nice parks and the cemetary, but also everything around them.
I like the way you try to create a place where parents and children can meet for lunch. It's an idea that would really be nice in the real world. Pitifully my workplace is too far away from my daughter's school...

That's another fantastic update there! Great work on that hill! :thumbsup:

I love the picture with the hospital and the cemetary! Great update, and wish you daughter luck from me! Sigh...college exams.

Meridien is classic Jmouse, and looks absolutely gorgeous. I love your choices of trees...its something you get to play around with that I dont with Qumma! Cant have trees in the desert!

Overall, your presentation was great and the pictures were awesome.

Hi Joan,

Thanks for showing your US phone booths.  The silver shiny ones are more common in the UK now, but you still see the red ones about.  And thanks for the tip re the Simoleon symbol.

Meridian is looking good, I like the overview, it looks a very leafy kind of town.

I love your approach to schools.  You always give them an interesting twist and your schools always manage to look different from other people's.

Your use of the retaining walls at the hospital looks really good - something I've not got to grips with yet.  I like the slopey parking spaces ;)

And the Hillside Mall is a neat idea.  As for the suggestion that you should put a staircase between the two levels, well my experience of shopping in the US is that shops seem to make it as difficult as possible to leave their property, with the assumption that everyone will drive everywhere, even if it's a few yards ;) ;) (No offence meant to ANY American shopping planners out there).

The church and stairs leading up to the bone yard are really nice.

Nedalezz made the comment that this is "classic Jmouse" and I agree with him 100%, you can tell it's by Jmouse and it is a classic!

Good luck to your daughter and catch up soon,

Paul

Joan,

I love the way you build the cities on the hills.  Its great.  Its something I struggle with but you make it look great.

I love C9-3.  I love baseball.

The graveyard with the steps leading to the church is INCREDIBLE.  No other words could describe it.  WOW.  I am speechless, I love that.  That might be the best cemetary and church area I have seen ever in an MD!

Hello Joan, I'm back!  :D

I should spent some time looking at your MD (and not only here, I must visit more friends :)) - I missed a lot.
But I see everything is well here, Wildcat Junction is a great place to visit!

Meridian is really a nice town, do you know what are my most favourite places? Of course the hospital and this charming little cemetary :D :D
Great work with slopes and attention to details :thumbsup:

Cheers
Adam

Another great update Joan. :thumbsup:

Do they still use a hearse after a funeral service, or do they just carry the coffin up the ramp to the cemetery   ;D (the dead centre of town is nicely put together by the way)

The school caught my eye, that school building fits in well.

The shopping area, again well done, with the terrain used nicely which you seem to have a knack for. The plazas however do look a little quite.

Joan, you are doing a wonderful job here and your fan base continues to grow. Keep up the great work.

Cheers

Dave

Another beautiful little town. The monkeys would love to swing over sometime! Does the market has a large shipment of bananas?  &apls

@mauricio (figui):  Glad you like Meridian, and you'll be happy to know the second-stage school has a soccer field built in (see below)! ;)
I'd never worked with walls before, but I admired Dave's (tooheys) work so much I decided to try my hand at them.

@Pat: My but you do have some sharp eyes, don't you! :thumbsup: Yes, I've been doing some very simple things in LE, and I'm already addicted! Move a tree, add a fence, take out an unwanted detail – the power to do more than wish is awesome. Read on and you'll see some of the changes up close. :)
To answer your question about the church, the file title in the menu is simply "small church," so let me do a bit more research.
Thanks for stopping by, my friend, and I hope all is well with you and your family.

@threestooges: You know, you just might be right about the camouflage and graffiti – I'm pretty sure there's a furry little artist swinging around here somewhere!
And the mayor liked your suggestion about the stairway so much that he financed some changes. Read on. :)
BTW, Julie did OK on her finals, thank you, and I hope you did well, too.

@FrankU: Thanks for the kind and encouraging words.
Ideas just kind of present themselves when elements and shapes provide possibilities. I often ask myself, "What can I do with this hill, cliff, neighborhood or building?" but I don't really plan ahead very much.
For example, the idea for the school/factory picnic area has been around a long time, but I didn't know when or where it would appear. :)

@bat: Thanks for stopping by. I'm starting to like working with hilly terrain even though sometimes it makes me want to see how far the SC4 disk will sail on a high wind! Will it break if you jump up and down on it (I hope, I hope!)? ::)

@nedalezz: You are just too kind, especially considering your unique talent for creating "a rose in the desert!"
We do have a lot of pine trees in the south, and I have a couple of very old red oak trees in my yard. It takes two people holding hands to reach around their trunks.
I didn't realize there was such a thing as "classic Jmouse," but I guess all of us have our own style. ;) Yours is the one that's really distinctive, though!

@Paul (paroch): I can remember times as a child when I would go on a car trip with my parents and pass through mile after mile of timber land (forest). It must have belonged to someone, but I just remember the trees – mostly pine and oak.
So that's what I have in mind for WJ – plenty of open spaces.
As for decorating schools and other civic buildings, I'm always on the lookout for new ideas. &idea
And you are so right about American commercialism. :thumbsdown: The longer you stay in the store, the more money you'll spend – at least that's the current strategy.
I did like threestooges' staircase idea, though, and you will see the results in this update.
Actually, I'm having a good time experimenting with a lot of elements I've never tried before. It slows me down, but who's counting! :)

@tkirch: Working with hills and slopes just takes a little practice. Pretty soon you'll develop a feel for the terrain. Just save whenever you get something you like then go on to the next area.
Thank you for the compliment. I do love adding something extra to civic buildings, and that particular church/cemetery combo almost designed itself! :)

@Adam (Ennedi): Coming from someone with such superior talents, your words are a high compliment!
I like the hospital, too, but by itself it is very ordinary. The secret is in the setting, and I have really come to enjoy creating interesting details.
Glad you liked what you saw! ()stsfd()

@Dave (tooheys): I think they drive the hearse to the north entrance and carry the coffin in from there. Dragging it up the stairs made too much noise and the neighbors complained. ::)
The school is part of the DEDWD set which includes three lots, and each of them has a larger student capacity. Also, it covers an entire medium quad and educates Sims from first through 12th grade.
I'm always honored when you stop by, and hope you'll read on to see the latest LEs and changes in the mall arrangement.
As for a fan base, I appreciate the loyalty, patience and kind words of each one!  Y'all are my inspiration. &apls

@Schulmanator: You tell those monkeys they can swing by any time, especially that cute little artist with the yellow hat! :D Meanwhile, having you swing by is always a treat, and we have more bananas than you can shake a stalk at!


threestooges presented a logical suggestion to help unite the multi-level Hillside Mall. When I presented the idea of building a staircase in the mall to Mayor Hillcrank, he slapped his forehead so hard his teeth flew clear into next week.
So after enjoying a bowl of chicken noodle soup for lunch (hold the crackers), he asked me to come up with some ideas.
I agreed, and used the revolutionary "Location Enhancement" software, more commonly known as the LE. Here are the results:

^C 9a-7: This is how Hillside Mall looked when The City of Meridian bought it. The mayor said there was something about it he didn't like, but he couldn't quite nail it down.
After much discussion, it was decided that the idea of installing a stairway had merit. Having shoppers wandering through the loading dock area, however, was unacceptable.
That's when I recommended rotating the two stores, and this is the plan I came up with:

^C 9b-1: With Michael's facing east and Piggly Wiggly facing west, it was possible to construct a safe passage for shoppers away from delivery areas.

^C 9b-2: Changes made in the LE included security fences around loading zones with a sliding gate at the back, far from public access.
(Author's note: The stairway appeared to hover above ground, probably because the wall was so high. So I put some of the BSC trails lots in the LE and moved a few trees around to disguise the gap and add some variety.)

^C 9b-3: "Pigs" got the same security setup, and in both cases, it was just a matter of adding fences to some of the construction lots.

^C 9b-4: And just for you, mauricio (figui), a photo of the stage-2 school, complete with a soccer/football field!

And we'll top off this update with a "postcard from the edge:"

^C 9b-5: A recent traffic study showed residents of the house on the left walking 13 tiles to catch a bus - passing up a much closer bus stop. Then they rode it across the street, got off and walked another four tiles to reach the workplace.  The folks next door to them walked 11 tiles, but otherwise took the same route.

Currently Meridian has a population of 23,200 with 15, 500 C-jobs and 3,000 I-jobs. Residents recently held their 12th New Years Day celebration and positive change is in the wind.
A small CBD is developing on the river's north side along with a new industrial park. The terrain holds promising possibilities, and there is plenty of room for expansion.

The author hopes to post one more update before Christmas, but whether it happens or not, she wishes each of you a Merry Christmas.
May you find peace, joy, happiness and the fellowship of dear friends and family during this holiday season.

Until next time...
Joan

Wonderful continuation there! And great stairway! :thumbsup:

ok Joan, now i'm ready to move into meridian :P (i'm 26, but i guess i can join the students for a match at their field $%Grinno$%)
btw, great update, and the changes made at the malls look perfect! great use of LE :thumbsup:

mauricio.

Joan just simply wonderful WOW  &apls &apls  You have a true eye for detail and its stunning... Kudus to you and Mayor Hillcrank for the restructer of the area to Mikes and the Pig and the added stairway.... mmmmmmmmmm perfect!!!  If you dont update and i dont see you anytime soon Merry Christmas from my family to yours!!! Make sure you tell Juile congrats on getting them exams done.... - pat

amazing pics...the border frame looks cool as well!! good work on the town place on a hill...

Hi Joan,

I spied your update/re-work the other day but didn't really have time to leave a comment, other than "mmmmm nice!", so here it is, better late than never eh?

I just LOVE the re-worked hillside mall.  It would have been so easy just to plonk in the stairs but you've really thought it through and the idea to rotate the two stores is genius - in some respects obvious but it's easy to say that once you've seen it ;)  And the way you've re-lotted them with the security fence is verrrrrry nice.  In fact, I need some security fencing for a little idea I have - so a friendly little pointer would be much appreciated :D

And with the school I have to say I'm impressed to see a "proper" football field at last in WJ :o  I like the white picket fence you've added.  Your LE work really is convincing me I should make more of an effort to create these nice extra touches - see you ARE an inspiration.

And the example journey is a good one.  It does kind of sum up some of the crazy things this game we love throws up from time to time.

And I won't do the Christmas wishes yet - I'm confident there'll be more from you before then :thumbsup:

The aerial view is stunning, and the cemetary is incredible! There most definitely is something called "classic Jmouse"; you have such a wonderful, unique style, it can be distinguished anywhere! Good work with the Hillside Mall as well!

Love it! A great update to start my weekend off smiling!  ;D

The Christmas rush is over, the house guests have gone back to roost in their own nests and it's time to get back to work.
With that said, let's pick up where we left off.


@bat: Thanks for stopping by, and I'm glad to hear you like the remodeled mall arrangement. :)

@mauricio (figui): If you still want to move to Meridian, I can have Hooter send his private jet to the airport nearest your home. In fact, he wondered if you'd be interested in a job as the new soccer coach. ;)
Glad you like the reworked mall. Wish mistakes were that easy to correct in RL! :)

@Pat: Thanks for the kind words and good wishes, my friend. This has been a busy two weeks punctuated by the sights, sounds and smells of Christmas. Did you know the voices of little boys ages 7 and 2 are exponentially amplified in direct proportion to the height of vaulted ceilings and stairwells? %BUd%
Glad you like the updated mall. Hosting an MD is about to cure me of blowing up problems instead of fixing them, and that alone makes the effort worthwhile. :)

@suplado!: Glad you like the photos. Later on, you'll see that the frames have a purpose beyond the obvious. :)

@Paul (paroch): One of the most rewarding aspects of creating an MD is the helpful ideas offered by readers like threestooges. We all see things through different eyes, and often the feedback is just what I need to help me analyze and fix a problem.
And Meridian does, indeed, have a "proper football field" now! ;) In fact, Hooter has offered mauricio a job as head coach.
Hope you and your family enjoyed a Merry Christmas, and the new year will be a happy one! :)

@nedalezz: Thank you for the kind words, but you have me blushing a bit! "Classic Jmouse" is just an approach far more likely to be influenced by chance than design. I'd rather stumble upon an interesting cliff and visualize a potential building site than to pass it up because it isn't in the master plan.
So here's hoping you'll enjoy the latest haphazard update! :)

@Schulmanator: Thanks for stopping by, and be sure to bring some of those cute monkeys with you next time. We have a buncha Texas-size bananas hangin' around!
Hope this update will start your new year off with a smile, a snicker or (dare I hope) an honest-to-goodness giggle!



^9c-1: Despite the holiday rush, end-of-year vacations and general chaos, Meridian's north bank has experienced some encouraging development. The northeast and central river bridges, as yet unnamed, are the ties that bind this growing city.

^9c-2: The Northridge tunnel, a first in Wildcat Junction, is the result of intensive geological research. The unexpected discovery of a stable limestone deposit made the project possible.
City Engineer Ima Lou Salvo was fascinated with the construction process. Word has it that she has decided to take a course in underground explosives from a member of the geological team who has decided to make his home in Meridian.
Sounds like 2008 will be a blast.

^9c-3: A small industrial park occupies the northeast corner of Meridian.

^9c-4: Why do I feel like singing "Itsy Bitsy Spider" when I look at this roundabout which connects the industrial park with the commercial district?

^9c-5: Just west of the northeast bridge, a wide variety of stores are serving the residents of Meridian.

^9c-6: Mid-level commercial services such as Verison-1 and Best Buy along with a few upscale stores like Kaufman's are flourishing right now. The two buildings in the center and a tower under construction, however, illustrate the conflict brewing between C-S and C-O developers.

^9c-7: And the race for real estate continues throughout the commercial district, much to the delight of the mayor and city treasurer.

^9c-8: On the far north side of Meridian, low- and mid-income housing skirts the commercial district.

^9c-9: A bit farther to the south – and closer to the river – a private school serves residents of high-wealth condos like this. My my, is that a limo passing in front of the school?

^9c-10: C-O promoters are looking at this undeveloped land like catfish eying a fistful of night crawlers, and Hooter is setting the hook as we speak.

^9c-11: For those who are tired of looking at overviews (a boring necessity), here is a typical center-cut slice of rural Texas towns like Meridian where middle-class Americans live, work and shop.

And here's a challenge, should you choose to accept it. Hooter believes the loyal visitors to this part of Wildcat Junction should have the privilege of naming the bridges in Meridian. You may enter as many times as you like, but be sure to specify what name goes with which bridge (northeast or central).
And if your entry is not chosen, take heart. There will be one or two more bridges built in Meridian, and their names will be chosen from the entries submitted.

Best wishes to all for a Happy New Year!

Until next time...
Joan

Texas sized bananas?!  :D The monkeys are on their way.

First off, glad to hear the holidays went well with family and all, and good to hear that Julie did well on her finals. The jury is still out on ours though (no grades yet, but hopefully I'll know soon). The reworked mall turned out very well. You did a good job in the LE hiding the gap in the stair model (had to look close to even notice that it might be there, and that was only after you said something). Sorry to hear that I put the city through the process of rotating two buildings, but the results seem to have worked out well (and the added security fences are a great touch).

On to the most recent update (can't believe I've let two be posted without commenting)... the overview looks good. I don't often see the raised road bridges used. Is there a reason you chose them for this particular setup, or is it just one of those things that happened? I like the way even your industrial complexes look clean (9c-3): fresh air and factories. The mosaic at the end is a great way to do an overview (I've tried taking a few from my cities, but for some reason I have a tough time finding an angle that is interesting to view through the whole mosaic...the focus of the pic usually drifts out of frame) you've done it well.

I noticed two Coit towers in the commercial area (one that seems to be in the process of being built) so with that I would like to ask, how do you like the CAM?

As for the bridge names, I've never been very creative/good at naming things for the game but here goes:
Central bridge: Catfish Bridge (inspired by pic 9c-10's caption)
Northeast Bridge: Grizzly Bear/Black Bear Bridge (something has to catch those catfish upstream... bad joke I know, but I wanted some connection between the two).

Good to hear the holidays went well. Happy New Year to you, and I'll see you next update.

Mayor Hooter Hillcrank extends his congratulations to you for making the 200th post, suplado! Good, bad or otherwise, you're a part of Wildcat Junction's checkered history! :thumbsup:

Until next year...
Joan

Hello Joan,

Nice to see you in 2008! (now it's 04.07 AM in Poland, I think you have some 2007 yet  ;))

Really strong development in Meridian - I'm not surprised, this place is beautiful!
As for bridges - I'm a bit tired now, but maybe I will return tomorrow with fresh ideas...  :thumbsup:

Wonderful new update there! Like the commercial area (/district)! Great work on that!
And the city looks fantastic!!

Congrats on more than 200 posts. &apls
Looking forward to more of Wildcat Junction in 2008!

 &dance omg this is so great, I'm so sorry to have missed nearly your whole MD (unfortunately I haven't been very active around here the last months) but the last city looks wonderful, the forests and teh water and the houses (you have to tell me, where you got all those row houses from!!!)

:) great city

Quote from: Jmouse on December 30, 2007, 07:12:51 PM
I can have Hooter send his private jet to the airport nearest your home.

ok, the jet can land at Montevideo Int'l Airport - MVD - "Carrasco" :thumbsup:

Quote
In fact, he wondered if you'd be interested in a job as the new soccer coach. ;)

that'd be a honor ()stsfd()
maybe i can manage to arrange some friendly matches against uruguayan "Club Nacional de Football" ::) (3 times world champion 1971, 1981 and 1988 ;D)

Quote
Glad you like the reworked mall. Wish mistakes were that easy to correct in RL! :)

indeed :D

till next time..
mauricio.

Hi there Joan,

I'm glad the update is here, I was getting Wildcat withdrawl over Christmas.....You had a house full of guests to plan and prepare for and to entertain.  I had time off work, to sit around playing SC4 and browsing on here!

I like the overview pic (9c1), the gently rolling hills look great.  Like threestooges I was interested to see the relatively plain road bridges.  Was that a conscious choice?  I must admit I'd like to see a different version there that is maybe a bit more "dressy".  But Hooter knows the look of Meridian I guess ;)

I was trying to work out how to get to the Hillside Mall from the bridge and thought it was a bit circuitous, so when I saw the tunnel it all made sense!

9c-5 is one of those "classic Jmouse" pics in my opinion.  Those open paved ped mall tiles make another appearance and give the commercial district a continuity with other areas of Wildcat Junction.  In 9c-6 I would ask about the size of the block that Best Buy, the mid-rise building and the small shops sit on.  Would they all really sit on a block that small? 

I love the Captain Jack's in 9c-7, I think it's a great looking restaurant and it looks really good next to that Dolphin building I've never seen before.  And I really like the way you achieve non-grid suburbs.  They look very good and it's hard to achieve that look (I haven't yet!)

"C-O promoters are looking at this undeveloped land like catfish eying a fistful of night crawlers, and Hooter is setting the hook as we speak." This has to be the funniest one liner I've ever read in an MD - made me laugh.

And a great mosaic to finish off.  I really like the terrain mod you use - makes the grass seem quite vibrant and those rocky river banks look fab.

As for the bridge names........  Well, I focussed on the name of the town, i.e. Meridian.  This link explains what a meridian is:
http://www.nmm.ac.uk/server/show/conWebDoc.17910
And of course, the most famous meridian in the world is the Greenwich meridian in London.  And the telescope at the Greenwhich meridian was built by Sir George Airy in 1850.  So I propose the Greenwhich Bridge and the Sir George Airy Bridge.  I think threestooges suggestions fit better with Wildcat Junction, whereas mine have a more historical angle.

All the best,

Paul

Just popped in to see if a new update had happened to come in yet (noticed some new posts of people who I though had already posted for the update...guess not) but I wanted to comment on Paul's (paroch's) bridge entries. I think the historical angle is a great idea. I'll leave the decision up to Hooter though.

Joan wonderful update here and sorry ima tad bit late checking in here.... OK names for the bridge contest, and its one only Jadeice Bridge for the bridge in the prime devolpment area that Hooter is eyeing up with them fishies... 

Jadeice: Mostly prominent asia name but very unique name as it means fine dish. A fine dish is always loved by a mayor who wants his pie and cake to....

Hi Joan, I made it back.

You really have been working overtime (while I took Xmas off)

Great stuff as always. You have created a unique look, and even without titles, borders etc, just one look and you know its a Joan. That in itself is something to be proud of  :thumbsup:

My favourite pic, well the mosaic especially the top portion, I am always impressed with how you work with the terrain  :).

But, there always has to be a but  ::).  I really think you need to mix up the plazas around the commercial areas, in my opinion they are a bit repetitive and lifeless. In comparison, in 9c-3, an industrial area, you have this nice pathway running thru the middle which would look great in the commercial area.

Anyway, overall I love it. I enjoy your style and I'm not trying to change it, just offering a suggestion or two.

Until next time

Cheers

Dave

@Schulmanator: Glad you stopped by. :)

@threestooges: The city engineer, council members and Mayor Hillcrank worked closely with Michael's and "Pigs" to make the renovation successful with a minimum amount of disruption.
Translated, that means I'm really glad you posted the suggestion because it improved the area AND led to an important learning experience for me!
The idea of raised bridges came about for two reasons.
When I made a stab at bridges in WJ early on, the flat ones looked swamped and were too low for ferries, so I opted for the raised ones.
The underlying reason I've always liked them in SC4 comes from a childhood memory. I lived within 70 miles of the Texas Gulf Coast for 45 years and crossed the Galveston Causeway many times. The first time made a lasting impression, though, because it was so much taller than anything I'd ever seen before. It was an awesome sight I'll never forget.
As for CAM, I have come to like it or at least get used to it. Controlling the incidence of duplications gets a bit tiresome, but otherwise it seems OK.
Of course, I'm not sure how it will play out in the upcoming CBD with high-density zoning.
I'll PM some tips on mosaics which seem to have helped others.
I can't believe you don't have grades yet, but I'd guess you have a pretty good idea of where you stand anyway.
Best of luck in the New Year. :)

@Ennedi: Thanks for the kind words, and here's hoping you have a Happy New Year! :)

@urban: You are too good to me! So glad to hear you like the development so far, and I hope you'll like the new approach I'm proposing (see below). I'll look for those row houses for you. :thumbsup:

@Mauricio (figui): The mayor, the school board and the soccer team are all excited about your interest in the coaching job. Travel arrangements will be forthcoming as soon as Hooter finds the pilot and gets him sobered up! :D

@Paul (paroch): I explained my bridge theory in the response above, but might consider a change later on. I just don't like bridges that sit right on top of the water, though, so this issue is going to need further research.
The commercial areas are likely in for a remodel as well (see below).  I think you've pretty well pinned down the idea that once you get hooked on the LE, the creative possibilities are addictive. At least for me, I can no longer accept a substitute for something I can make myself. ()stsfd()

@threestooges: The bridges may get more than new names after trying out a few ideas, but we'll just have to see. And I agree with the idea of historical names.
BTW, do you get an e-mail whenever there's a new post in the W.J. MD or any other thread you're watching? Just wondering.

@(Dave) tooheys: Sometimes it takes a fresh set of eyes to see the obvious. I think you are absolutely right about the commercial areas, especially after going back for a look at the CBDs of master players.
So WJ is in for some changes (see below). ;)
Also, I think the idea of identifying players based only on their building style would be a really fun game. &idea
Those who wanted to submit a photo would do so in a private message to the thread's creator for posting. Beyond that, I don't know what rules would work or what the rewards would be, but I think it would be an interesting pursuit any way.
Anyone interested? "$Deal"$

@All: The New Year has brought about an unexpected turn of events.
A few weeks ago, I stumbled upon a situation in which I either had to use the LE or settle for something boring and commonplace.
Now I can look back at that experience and see it as a turning point. For me, the ability to change things around to suit myself is a powerful magnet that won't turn loose.
Unfortunately, learning new software requires a commitment of time which includes a massive reconstruction of the plugin folder.
This means updates will be a bit scarce, probably for the rest of January, but hopefully the end result will be worth the wait.
So to all of you, the loyal readers who continue to offer encouragement and support, I hope the old saying, "Good things come to those who wait," will be true once again.
Thank you in advance for your patience!

Until next time...
Joan

Hi Joan,

Well, good news and bad, I guess.

Good that you're getting new buzzes out of this great game we all love and bad because your loyal followers crave the next update!!!

Seriously, you have to do what's right for you.  My experience of re-organising my plug-ins is that it's forever evolving and you'll manage some updates in the meantime, even if they're smaller.  I'll PM you some thoughts on how you may want to organise the plug-ins.

And as for the "guess whose picture this is"....... I think that is a brilliant idea.  I'm more than happy to get involved in this one.  Maybe we should PM Jeronij and/or Dedgren as they are the moderators of the picture board (where I guess this would sit).  I'll PM you some thoughts on it.......

btw...... what of the bridge names???

I will miss your regular updates for a while but I am sure your awesome new stuff will be WELL worth the wait!!

I will pace back and forth at your doorstep awaiting your next update :-D

I know what you mean about the raised bridges making an impression. The Coronado bridge in San Diego is a sight and rather high when driving over it. I believe it was designed to permit passage of aircraft carriers. I'll be glad to pick up whatever tips I can regarding mosaics. As to your email question, I don't. I pass through the forums a few times a day to take a quick break to see if anything is new. If I see a new post in a thread that catches my eye, I pop in to see if anything is new. Glad to hear you are working with the LE now. I've tinkered with it a few times, but I've never really gotten skilled at making anything that looks good (funny considering that I wrote a tutorial on using it). After seeing the intricate school setups etc you've made without the LE, it'll be interestng to see what you come up with. Take it easy.

Joan im soooooooooo extacted that you are finding the wonderful world of Customization!!! Its a grand baby and also a pain too... But you got the skills that will keep you patient and i soooooooo cant wait to see what the month of Feb will bring, hopefuly something special on 2/9 lol :D



btw welcome to page 12

@All: After spending nearly two weeks organizing plugins and working with the LE, I planned to update Meridian today.
This was not in the master plan, however.

^ What looked like this in the last update ...

^Now looks like this ...

^These brown boxes in the region overview don't show up in the city, but represent the few structures which did not disappear.

The good news is that the only thing lost was the area where the newly-created lots will appear, and I can recreate it using album photos. The bad news is that it will take a few extra days to produce an update.
So if there is only one thing I can convince each of you to do, it would be to stop whatever you're doing this minute and back up your city, region, album and plugin files.
The backup I'll be using is dated 1/1/08, but I plan to start backing up W.J. every night when I'm through playing.
Once again, many thanks for your continued support and encouragement. Personal replies will be forthcoming soon.

Until next time...
Joan

Sorry to hear about the corruption troubles, my friend. I hope you're able to get it all sorted out. And that's some sage advice, too, about backing up everything. It can definitely save a lot of frustrations!

Good luck!

ooooooh no Jooooooan noooooooooooooooooooo!!! Im soo sorry to hear that you got struck with an ouchies but you will recover pretty Darn quick though and I have good faith in you.... BTW check this out!!!! (http://simpeg.com/forum/index.php?action=tpmod;dl=item193) as i know you are registerd at pegs this is the brown box killer and very very niffty to have........

Soory about everything that happened.  It just drives you nuts when that happened.  I got myself a portable drive and copy everything over to that everyday.  That ways it is in two places.  And real easy to back up to a portable drive.  Its been awhile since I have been around here and gave a nice long look to your because I always loved everything you do.  

Look at the brightside, everything you didn't like before can now be done differently, you have to look at the upside.

I remember a friend....
It was in the days before we used computers. He was a student of architecture. He had been drawing on his designs for days and some nights. They were finished and he rolled them into his cylinder (how do you call these cylinder shaped things you hang around your neck?). He jumped on his bicycle and drove to the faculty to show the designs to his teacher. It was raining. There was a lot of wind. On a large road crossing the cylinder opened and all his drawings fell into the dirt and the water and the wind blew them away and the cars drove over the remains and it was a hell of a mess. :'( :'(

He did not have a backup.

This became my nightmare, but nowadays I have everything backupped on an external drive.

Joan,

Aaaaaaarrrrrrggggghhhhhhh

Sorry to hear you'd lost a lot (no pun intended - ouch).  Was it a case of just "over organising" your plug ins??  I hope my filing system pics didn't contribute  &mmm .  I did something with SimGoobers lots - run a cleanitol and installed the mega packs from on the LEX but lost virtually all his other stuff.  Took a good few hours of re-downloading before my city started to look anything like before.

The one that caused the REAL problem was the "Health Mega Pack".  Don't use it unless you can go in and bulldoze all of SG's health lots before installing the new pack.  I re-opened Regent to tidy a few things up and the city went a bit crazy budget wise and is now in debt!!!!!  It did have a health warning which I didn't pay enought attention to! 

My advice would also be not to open any other of your cities until you are confident you've replaced the missing files, or else the same will happen there (sorry if I'm teaching you to suck eggs).

I don't back up at the moment (other than keep the last Plugins Compressed from DAT Packer) - But I will put plugins and regions to CD every few weeks from now on!

Good luck with the recovery work - let me know if I can help locate stuff in anyway.

Regards,

Paul

Aye, that one in always painful. Having said that, Im going to back up my city right now!

Waiting for the next mezmerizing update!

Joan, I've finally had the chance to catch up on your MD, looking at it "cover-to-cover", and this is just absolutely amazing stuff you have here.  I feel bad for not stopping by sooner. :-[

Everything is so colorful, and you've got some very fine suburbia and natural surroundings in the pics--some of the best I've ever seen.  And you really do seem to have the transit thing figured out from what I can tell--I love your usage of the NAM Diagonal Streets.

I'm very sorry to hear about your Plugins, too.  I've got a new 160GB external drive here, which I have yet to use, but I think seeing that may convince me to finally go through and back stuff up.

Best of luck with getting everything sorted out, and I'm really looking forward to seeing your next update.

Best Regards,
Alex

QuoteSo WJ is in for some changes

Well that wasn't quite what I expected  :'(

Sorry to hear the bad news Joan, but I'm sure it won't be long before you have things back on track  :).

Cheers (well not so cheerful  :()

Dave

Ah, about the backup stuff:
There are lots of programs that will help you with making backups. Fancy stuff that will cost you a lot.
But there is also the simple and cheap method: a bat-file.
Some of you will probably remember MS-DOS times? In these days you needed some basic skills on writing bat-files...
Well I'm not that good in IT-stuff, but a simple bat-file is within my reach. So I wrote two different ones, put them on my desktop and every time I want to make a backup I now have the choice of backing up to my second internal HD or my external HD.

This is what the text in the bat-file looks like:

----------------
xcopy/e/d/Y/h d:\docume~1\beheer\mijndo~1 J:\BK_Mdoc\
pause
----------------

What does it do?
It copies all the newer files form directory D:\etc.... (it is the dutch name for My documents folder) to disk J:
So the first time it will backup every file, afterwards it will only copy the newer files: added ones and edited or changed ones. It overwrites the old files.

The word "pause" makes the bat-file prompt for a keystroke once it has finished copying. I like to see what has happened. It is safe to delete this line, then the process quits automatically.
You can add as much lines as you want: the file can be used to copy all your documents to locations you like.

Making te bat file:
On your desktop right-click with your mouse, choose "New" and make a new textfile.
Type in the lines you want, save the file (think of a name like "backup all my files") and then change the extension from *.txt to *. bat.

Now you can double click and the process starts running.
Cheap and easy.
Just don't forget to do it sometimes.

There is one problem: the bat file only works with the old MS-DOS 8-letter-names of folders, while now we use much londer names. Hence the names like docume~1... So it is a quite difficult task to find out what the DOS-name of the folder is. The My Documents folder is usually Mydocu~1 (the first 6 letters of the folder name (spaces don't count)) and then: ~1.

@ Paul (paroch): Much has happened in the past day or so, but Meridian stands here as living proof that you can find a stepping stone in the ashes of disaster if you'll just look for it. %confuso
As I glanced through the photo album, I realize how much better the finished product looks now than it did on the first go 'round. It isn't perfect by any means, but it's an improvement.
Bridge names will have to wait for the next update when there will be several major changes made.  Explanation below.

@ Schulmanator: Hope this update has been worth the wait. If not, please view my lengthy list of excuses below.

@ threestooges: This update is all about school, so I hope you enjoy it. And as explained above, the bridges are on hold for the moment whilst my poor little brain wraps itself around the slings and arrows of LE.
OUCH, that smarted! :o

@ Pat: You're right about the LE being a pain in the posterior, but it's addictive all the same. You're far ahead of me in the area of customization, so if you need a box of tissues to wipe away the tears of laughter, I'll understand. Your suggestions for improvements will be welcome after you catch your breath, though!

@ thundercrack83: Thanks for the encouraging words. Rebuilding the lost "acre" has been frustrating, but I hope the end result is worth the trouble.

@ tkirch: I have an external hard drive, but it failed me when I needed it the most. Now I just make weekly backups to a DVD and save my city daily on a flash drive. And as stated above, the lost area was not a huge loss, just a time-consuming inconvenience. Hope you'll like the revised version.

@ FrankU: Your story chilled me to the bone!  I was a commercial artist long before practical PCs were a gleam in the eyes of Gates and Jobs. During those years, I accumulated a portfolio, but I lived on the banks of the San Jacinto River north of Houston. Eventually, seven floods in 20 years wiped out all traces of my work. I had no backups.
Now I do in this wonderful age of flash drives and secondary hard drives. And I'll try out your bat-file method ASAP. Thanks for explaining it.

@ nedalezz: I always appreciate your visits, and I hope you'll enjoy this update.

@ Alex (Tarkus): Actually, I was very lucky in that nothing critical was lost – it just took some time to repair the damage.
By all means, back up your work to the external drive, just make sure it's working properly. And in the spirit that you can't have too many safety nets, back up your MD city daily to a flash drive or CD-RW, and commit everything in your MyDocs/SC4 folder to a DVD once a week.

@ Dave (tooheys): This wasn't what I expected either, but things are starting to get back on track now. Hope you like the new update.

@ All: Learning to use the LE is pretty easy, but the pre-use organizational demands are formidable. In my case, there is still much work to be done before things will run smoothly.
As a beginner, I opted to try something simple. A few greystone paths on a City College campus, but one thing led to another and another and another.
For those well versed in the use of LE, this update may not appear to be the culmination of two week's toil, sweat and high-pitched screaming, but be assured that it is.




^C-10.1 After countless meetings and many trips to the drawing board, Mayor Hooter Hillcrank and other city officials hammered out a plan for higher education.
An unexpected endowment from Dr. Hardy Boyzz, the late president of Meridian Junior College, funded a vast expansion project.


^C-10.2 To the west (upper left), residence halls were added to accommodate out-of area students.
In the center, a new science building offers classes in geophysics as related to oil-well drilling. Trees near the storage tanks are a bit spindly, but students are working to relieve ground-water corruption.
In the lower right corner, a tech building houses hundreds of computer geeks. They are learning to discover veins of oil by hacking into isopromytle geomagnetic planes underground. At present, they are waist deep in petroleum byproducts – or something dark colored.
A small chapel to the north provides sanctuary to students with failing grades, bad attitudes and/or angry parents.


^C-10.3 Right below the residence halls, a Denny's Restaurant provides sustenance to bleary-eyed students 24/7. The diner became popular with nearby neighborhood residents as well, and a new greystone walking trail was created.


^C-10.4 Many of the students attending classes at the main campus get their basics courses out of the way and transfer to four-year universities. Those who stick around for the science and tech programs, however, can earn their four-year degrees and never leave the farm.
A park to the east is a popular gathering place for non-geeks, and statues of the mayor and his wife provide a ripe venue for squab hunting.


^C-10.5 Above the campus, an enormous football stadium awaits a few finishing touches like goal posts. Still, confident students rush to buy season tickets for the Meridian Marauders' upcoming games.


^C-10.6 East of the stadium, tennis courts and a softball field have been installed. This area was a concession to the female students after they beat the football team in a practice game – it was a sorority prank. Now, however, the only females allowed on the football field are certified cheerleaders.


There has been little time to think about bridge names – the LE tends to cause a major brain drain. The idea has not been forgotten, however, and will be addressed in the next update. Meanwhile, I hope you enjoyed this one and will provide feedback on this newbie's first attempts at Lot Editing.

Until next time...
Joan   

Joan, I'm really glad to hear that things are back in order with the city.  That's a really nice looking campus you've built there.  I can definitely see you've done some very creative LE work there, and the results are fantastic.  Re-purposing that Maxis Industrial building like that was particularly clever. I also see you're a big fan of MAS71's retaining walls, too. :)

I've unpackaged my external HD now, too.  ;)

-Alex (Tarkus)

My my my! That is quite the educational facility, better and more complex than anything I couldve come up with!

Wonderful update, indeed I liked it very much!

Very nice Joan. Love the stadium and your use of the paths and parks is  :thumbsup:

You seem to have mastered the use of retaining walls as well, I remember you complaining several times in the past that you just couldn't get them right  :)  . Well you have certainly sorted that problem out  ;)

Your a step ahead of me now that your working on LE. I'll be crawling to you for help if I ever find some time to dabble. 

Cheers

Dave

lol! Your excuses have been accepted. I need to visit that chapel for the angry parents and failing students!   :P

Great update there! Like that town! :thumbsup:

Don't be so modest. You're off to a great start with the LE from the looks of things. This'll give Wildcat Junction that extra little bit of customization that you've done a great job with so far. Out of curiosty, "relieving gound water corruption" is that one of those things from the map loading screen? It seems like the perfect project for an agricultural area though. I like the football stadium. Nice work with the center field advertising, however, it seems to make the rest of the field seem stretched (not sure if there is anything you can do about that, aside from making new textures which I have no idea how to do). Take your time with the bridges and all of this project. The LE is a very useful tool and you seem to be putting it to good work.

Joan im far from being well versed in LE I have lots to learn yet.... Key word here is learn and as long as you continue to learn, you will go higher places with LE... Who knows maybe even better branch out into the other progams out there to accomplish so many more things such as make a lot grow or Landmark have jobs and the best of the best TE'ing.... Joan I know you will go great places and I will never laugh at your creations, as you have inspired me to break away from my normal places and do stuff differnt.... Joan you have a great gift here and I cant wait to the next update..........

Hi Joan,

Well, first off, I can spot many of your LE creations and can appreciate the time, effort and creativity you have put into this update, so a MASSIVE :thumbsup: for that.

10.1 - My first question, is that after your city problem, did you have to demolish the Hillside Mall?  And if so id this where the new college has been built?  It's just that the terrain looks kinda familiar.  Just wondering.  I know that we provide each other with honest feedback, so I have to say that for me, the green retaining walls are a bit too green.  I think that the walls coupled with the very bright green turf of the football pitch just make it "too green".  It's as though the eye is drawn to these features away from all the great work you've done on the campus.  Just my opinion and I'm sure you'll take it as such.

10.2 - Now, I'm trying to spot all of your custom lots!  I'm guessing the paved areas are your work - nice choice of texture.  I'm also assuming the residence halls, science building, storage tanks and tech building are all customised.  I think the use of the storage is inspired.  But my favourite are the residence halls.  Very nicely lotted &apls.
Have you done them as plop landmarks, or growables?  I guess my only question would be the parking areas.  How are the cars meant to get there?   One little prop I have found useful for giving the appearance of entrances to parking lots can be found here:
http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?id=18253
You'll get the hang of 'em pretty easily.

10.3 - Nice paths again!  And also, nice mix of colours in the trees.

10.4 - I'd love to see this pic with a brown or grey retaining wall - I just think it'd show off the scene in front of it so much better.

10.5 - love the surroundings, can see the work in there.  And I like the idea of the sposorship on the pitch, just nor convinced it works quite right.  Someone else mentioned it making the pitch look stretched.

10.6 - Just ADORE the tennis courts - your creation???

Joan, I hope you appreciate these comments for what they are - just my opinion.  I think the actual lots you've produced are fantastic and I'd jump at having them in my region.  I'm rubbish at retaining walls, so I don't know whether you tried other versions/colours, but I'd love to see part of it in a different colour.  The overall campus is awesome.  You've thought of everything and it is a great facility.

Look forward to more and good luck with your further explorations into LE.

Paul

Since there were a few questions, I decided to post replies a little ahead of schedule.

Alex (Tarkus): Glad you like the campus. :) I got the idea from  Woodworks University by woodb3kmaster (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?id=1818)
All I wanted was a few extra buildings to expand a city college campus, though, so I just picked out a few I liked and put them on smaller lots.
Yes, I do like the retaining walls now that I've kinda' figured out how to use them, but may change the color (see Paul's (paroch) suggestion below.)
And I'm especially glad to hear you're hooking up your external HD. :thumbsup: I have a handful of flash drives so I back up my region and "new plugins folder" daily, and everything I can get on a DVD every three to four weeks.

nedalezz: I appreciate your kind words. :)
Other than mildly-edited versions of the Maxis university, I haven't seen much in the way of grad schools. Too bad.

tooheys: Thank you, kind sir! ;)
At the moment, I'm not sure if I love the LE or hate it! Getting started – getting organized and finding what you need -- takes the patience of a saint, and I still have far to go. Still, it's nice to see something other than Maxis' pink paths, and it's fun to put elements together in a unique way.
You do have a creative and artistic streak in you whether you know it or not, so I hope you'll give the LE a try sometime.

Schulmanator: Thanks for stopping by, and as you might guess, the chapel is open 24/7! ::)

bat: Glad you stopped by, and especially happy to hear you like the town. :)

threestooges: You are right about the stadium, and you're not alone in noticing that "advertising stretch" flaw. Like functional universities, American football stadiums are hard to find, though. Either they are enormous or look like little high school facilities. This one simply fit the size requirements so I used it.
And I didn't create it BTW. It's the City Us Football Stadium by rockytron789 (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?id=3966)
And the "ground-water corruption" was just an expression of frustration over corrupted files! &mmm

Pat: Come on, my dear, surely you know I was just kiddin' around! :P Here at SC4D, I know we don't laugh at each other or run each other down – we're friends helping friends! I do think some frustration over corrupted files and the time element did show, but it's nothing but a grouchy old lady fussing at her run of bad luck! :bomb:

Paul (paroch): Hillside Mall is still in tact on the south side of the river – the college is on the north side (which was not explained in the last update &ops).
What with the holidays and a couple of weeks working with LE, I haven't clicked on the "GO" button in nearly a month. So I don't wonder that you're a bit lost – I am, too!
I'm glad you like the campus extras, but for now they're just decorations. Hopefully I'll find time to learn some of the finer points of LE now.
And a big thanks for the link. I haven't tried them out yet, but will do so soon. I hope they'll work on street "banjos!"
I addressed the "stretched" field in the response to threestooges right above.
The tennis courts are in the Fenced In Recreation [pack] by disk_error (http://www.simtropolis.com/stex/index.cfm?id=661)
And I've decided to work on those walls, too.

Meanwhile, Meridian is getting a little facelift -- a few nips and tucks here and there -- but it shouldn't take too long.

Until next time...
Joan

Thanks for the linkie Joan.  Downloaded and just merged into my plug-ins.

Looking forward to the next installment......

I have asked thundercrack to store WJ in the Inactive Area for the time being.
Following a RL issue which has consumed much of my time lately, I suffered a computer crash last night -- literally -- during a wind storm here in NE Arkansas. News story (http://www.jonesborosun.com/story.php?ID=31343).
Had I not been momentarily away from the area which houses my computer, I might not be around to send this message, but I'll worry about that tomorrow, Scarlet!
Tonight I'm "borrowing" my laptop which my daughter uses for schoolwork. Within a few days, my son-in-law will be able to revive one of my old computers which will enable me to get online, but it is not powerful enough to run the game.
I do appreciate the loyalty and patience all of you have shown, and the suggestions you have offered. You have helped me learn how push a little harder -- to dig beneath the surface and find creative instincts I didn't know existed.

Until next time...
Joan

Joan, I'm quite sad to hear about WJ going inactive, and about your computer, but more importantly, I'm relieved to hear you're okay.  From what I saw from that news story, it looked like a pretty rough one.  I hope everything else is alright.

This is a great MD you've got here, and thank you so much for sharing it.  I know I've learned quite a bit from it, and I hope to see you back at it soon.   :)

Best,
Alex

JOoooooooooooooooooooooooooan NOOOOOOOOOOOOOO  :'( :'( :'( :'( WJ is by far my best MD to come to and watch you grow and learn, Please I beg of you dont loose us at all.... My prayers are out to you Joan and thanking god that you had steped away when you did... Take it easy my friend and at least you can stay connected to the community....


Your Northwoods Friend

Patrick

Wind is truly something when it gets going like that. When I lived in Reno, I saw a few trees snapped in half... not little things either, big 6ft thick pine trees. I am glad to hear that you made it through the storm in one piece (if not necessarily with all computers in still in one piece)...if ever there was an incentive to get away from the computer, I'd say it happened at the right time. I hope that everyone is fine, and that things clean up quickly to get back as close to normal as they can. We may have helped you learn to push harder, but you are the one who has done the pushing. WJ will certainly be here when you're ready to get back to it, and we will be here when you are ready for it too (but don't be a stranger to the site in the interim if you have the time). Hope all goes well.
-Matt

Wildcat Junction, yes we love it, but at the moment its not important. 

Joan, knowing you and your family are OK, that is the only thing I need to know.

You certainly have some RLS ('scuse the French) to deal with, but rest assured, when you make a return
to the MD stage, we will be here to greet you.

Wishing you all the best

Dave

Joan,

From time to time an MD'er posts a message saying that they've had a crash/bug/problem that prevents them from doing regular updates, or has changed their plans (myself included).  And whilst we all feel sympathy when we hear it, no-one is/was in danger or suffered real life loss.  Well, you've out done us all ;)

Seriously, I'm relieved that you and your family are all well and in tact.  I hope you've not suffered too much property damage, and if you have I keep my fingers crossed that all can be fixed and replaced.

As for SC4 in general and Wildcat Junction in particular - it will wait til a time when your physical wellbeing and surroundings allow you to "kick off your boots and play a while".  Until then, take care, be lucky and keep us updated from time to time.  You've got a group of people here who will be thinking of you and wishing you all the best.

With Regards,

Paul

Hello, Joan!

As I said to you in your PM, I'm quite saddened to hear this news, my friend. As per request, I'll be moving Wildcat Junction to the Inactive MDs on Sunday.

We all look forward to its return!

Take care and good luck, my friend!

Dustin

Yes, I hope you will be all right and in the meantime I will wait and maybe even kick off my own boots and play awhile....

Wish you all the best. ()flower()

Joan - realy sorry to read about your problems. This MD should  indeed be the last thing to worry about...  I am glad that you and your loved ones are OK.

This MD will one day probably be as well. Until than, be sure that you can count on your friends here.

Hello Joan,

I didn't know about these sad news because of my temporary absence.

Quote from: sebes on February 22, 2008, 02:27:16 AM
Joan - realy sorry to read about your problems. This MD should  indeed be the last thing to worry about...  I am glad that you and your loved ones are OK.

I can only repeat what sebes said. Every of us have various RL issues - better or worse - but the key is to have some distance to everything. The most important thig is that everything ended good.
As for your fantastic MD and all SC4 activity - in fact everything we create in our computers and then show to others is an occasion to meet friends and share our experiences and feelings with them. So don't worry about the break, everything what we experienced visiting your MD is still alive, and I'm sure we will have much more occasions to meet at SC4D, and maybe to continue the Wildcat Junction, or maybe to built something new?  :thumbsup:

Best regards
Adam