Patricius Maximus

1-2: In matters where a crime (especially a felony) is committed, you do not have a right to retain the property used or procured during the process of committing the crime. If I make $1,000,000 from selling crystal meth and get busted, the government is well within its rights to take it. If I have a beat up car and I'm making drug sales out of it (or committing any other felony), the police will certainly confiscate that car (quite often they use cars taken in this manner for undercover activity). They don't need to compensate the offender.quote> Well, yes they can do that, when a crime is committed, and they have a warrant based on probable cause. About the compensation, see the response below. 3/4. Authorities are still required to obtain a search warrant under this law, as with any activity involving the entry of a private household. To obtain a warrant, probable cause is required (i.e. proof or reasonable suspicion that criminal activity is occuring).quote> Well, that's a step up from the warrantless wiretapping. But, I ask you a question in this scenario: You pirate some music on your desktop computer, and the authorities find out. Then the police get a warrant to sieze the computer (because it was used to commit a crime). Then they come to your house, and sieze every electronic device you own. In the last act of this scenario, is that constitutional? Do the police have probable cause that the pirated file was on every single of those electronic devices? Now, in this case, the siezure of the desktop (which they had a warrant for), is not covered under the "just compensation" clause. But, since they are siezing the other property without a warrant, then would they not be required to pay compensation? One of the last steps on the road to totalitatrianism in America. The Constitution is not followed, the Supreme Court does not protect it (surprised), and even worse, the people do not do anything about it.quote> Thank you, Paticius Maximus. I have been concerned about this for a while but somehow it has become unpatriotic to follow the Constitution.quote> Well, I'm glad you agree. Following the Constitution is the mark of a true patriot. Following the government is not. It's not just you. I believe so as well.quote> I don't think it's just me. But I also recognize that my interpretation is vastly different than, say, the Supreme Court's. And I know that some uphold the Court's decisions, whatever they may be. Speaking of the Supreme Court, the writers of the Constitution made a grave mistake in Article III, hardly providing any instructions for the judiciary. Below is a quote from a letter from Thomas Jefferson to William Jarvis in 1820: To consider the judges as the ultimate arbiters of all constitutional questions [is] a very dangerous doctrine indeed, and one which would place us under the despotism of an oligarchy. Our judges are as honest as other men and not more so. They have with others the same passions for party, for power, and the privilege of their corps. Their maxim is boni judicis est ampliare jurisdictionem [good justice is broad jurisdiction], and their power the more dangerous as they are in office for life and not responsible, as the other functionaries are, to the elective control. The Constitution has erected no such single tribunal, knowing that to whatever hands confided, with the corruptions of time and party, its members would become despots. It has more wisely made all the departments co-equal and co-sovereign within themselves.quote> A prophecy of things to come 190 years later? Sometimes I think so. I would like to hear the reasoning for upholding this law as Constituational.quote> I can tell you right now what it's going to be: the constitution protects you against search and seizure only without probable cause. If you're reasonably suspected to have pirated material, you have broken the law and therefore the probable cause is there.quote> Duke, I guess that's the only argument that can be made in it's favor. Of course, it's a lot easier to do so if you ignore the Fifth Amendment. But I don't see it being repealed any time soon.... Why did the senate approve this unanimously?quote> That's really the scary part. Unanimously? That just doesn't happen. Everything is partisan to some degree.quote> Yes, it's scary when they approve something like that overwhelmingly. It's called 'bipartisanship'. One person at the Rally for the Republic said, "It seems we have a choice between the stupid party and the evil party. And when they do something stupid and evil, it's called bipartisanship." But most of all, why does nobody care?quote> Complacency. The worst enemy of democracy. People become complacent, take their rights for granted, then they don't use their rights. Then they don't want to protect them. Then they think that it is the government's duty to protect their rights, when it is government that infringed on them in the first place. The three branches of government are said to check and balance each other. But there is another check and balance -- the people. The people check on all three branches, and ensure that their rights are not violated. When this check is removed, the government does whatever it wants. That's what I've found with most people I've met. Not to say that any particular person is like that, but that's what I've seen. Why didn't Bush get IMPEACHED a long time ago?!quote> "Impeachment is off the table." - Nancy Pelosi I think that both Bush and Cheney should be impeached, but most congressmen are against it. I think 3 people have issued articles of impeachment, but they're still stuck in committee. The Constitution is a document that is to be respected in the creation and passage of laws. By the passage of this, Emperor Bush II has shown his complete disregard for it, as well as all things protected by it.quote> Emperor Bush II -- I like it. Although I think he should be the first, since his father wasn't much of an emperor. But, I do agree with you. He has created another "Czar" position? Seriously?quote> Yes, seriously. The "Intellectual Property Czar" (he's supposed to protect it ). Also, I think I can protect my own intellectual property without his help. Besides, a "czar" -- as in autocrat? I don't think I want him in charge of it. - Patricius Maximus

The Zug Territory could use a little work, but it is pretty good, and has a lot of potential for growth and evolution. I'm sure it will only get better as time goes on. Updating every 2-4 days is a good schedule. I use a similar one with Franklin County (1-2 days). I wish you luck. - Patricius Maximus

IN THE SHADOW OF WIND TURBINES REPLIES: deathtopumpkins: Thanks for your comments. flyinbird93: I'm glad you think that the updates "rocked". Ntq$310: Thanks. deathtopumpkins: 1) It certainly was a surprising spike. 2) Glad you removed the barriers. They look a lot better that way. 3) I'm going to show off the other town in this update . haljackey: 1) No, Franklin is not going in high resolution -- at least not totally. I'll be sure to post more of those high-resolution images in the future. 2) I'm glad you think I did well -- I thought so myself. 3) Thanks. Archean: 1) Yes, custom telephone poles. I'm not aware of any power pole mods. 2) Yes, my photobucket album is getting crowded, but I updated to Imageshack before about Update 95. 3) Thank you for your comments. Mother of Inventions: Pilots beware. Hehehe... . Remember, this is Simcity, and the highway does look good, doesn't it? A new town has sprung up in the shadow of the Franklin Energy wind farm: Here's the close-up of the bank -- it's a JPMorganChase, one of the bank requests a few updates back: And lastly, to the south, there's a residential development near the artificial trees: Residents have noticed that the air there is the best they ever breathed in, and as a result, land values have skyrocketed 150% in the last few weeks. The East Valley Citizens' Assembly expects some more wealthy members... The next update will contain more high-resolution images. Please post comments, suggestions, and questions.

One of the last steps on the road to totalitatrianism in America. The Constitution is not followed, the Supreme Court does not protect it (surprised), and even worse, the people do not do anything about it. Now, let me see. As far as I know the US government can sieze your computer and other electronics at will, sieze your land for corporations, deny you the right to a fair trial on suspicion of "terrorism", read your mail, read your e-mails, bug your house, listen in to every single phone call, take over your bank, invade countries at will, discriminate against atheists, and search your house. That's all I know of. I would also like to draw attention to the US Constitution. Amendment IV The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seizedquote> Amendment V No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of war or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offence to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use without just compensation.quote> Amendment IX The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.quote> So, Amendment V provides that no property shall be taken for public use without just compensation. In my view at least, the government with this act is: 1) Taking property (electronics) without just compensation 2) The taking of the property is not for public use. 3) The government does not have a warrant to sieze the property. 4) The government does not have probable cause, and it is not supported by Oath or Affirmation. Therefore, the PRO-IP act is unconstitutional (violates Amendments IV, V, IX), but don't expect the Supreme Court to declare that. They do not defend the Constitution any more. Now, I don't expect anyone to agree with me -- everyone's interpretation is different. Mine has the most rights for the people, and forbids the government from interfering with the people's private affairs. I believe that this was the 'original intent' of the 'Founding Fathers' of the US. I live outside the United States, but close to the border, and I have witnessed in the last 10 years the turn from "government serves the people" to "people serve the government". - Patricius Maximus

DEVELOPMENT IN FRANKLIN PLATEAU REPLIES: un1: Yes, it does connect to roundabouts. Thanks. haljackey: 1) Well, I think the HRS has potential, even though it isn't finished yet. 2) Thanks for pointing that out. edmonton_stinks: Thank you. deathtopumpkins: I think you should try them out. Perhaps they were conflicting; you never know. Before I begin showcasing the new developments, an interesting graph: It's the number of replies per update. The peak above 20 was the Hanging Cliff incident, with messages issued between updates. Now it's stabilized around the average number. In Franklin Plateau, a new diamond interchange in the east has been built, along with an admnistration office for the wind turbines to the west: To the north is Franklin Plateau's first residential development (west is at the top): I'd like to announce to all here that I'm attempting to BAT power lines, and have produced the first prototype, which is showcased here, west of the office: I still need to improve the poles . For more information, check out my BAT thread. Lastly, I've created a new map of Franklin Plateau, using the same key as the previous map: Please post comments, suggestions, and questions.

Very little change. quote> A (good or bad) example of a constitutional loophole exploited. I consider Harper's exploitation dishonorable -- if he has to manipulate the election date to get the people to vote for him, he doesn't deserve to hold his office. - Patricius Maximus

NEW SIGNS ON I-85 REPLIES: Tyler26101: 1) Happy 100th! 2) Search 'RMIP' on the STEX. 3) Thanks. sedimenjerry: I don't have any idea, either? haljackey: 1) Sorry they're a pain for you, but thanks for your comment. 2) Well, probably a leftover habit -- I like it that way . 3) There's no diagonal section, undortunatly. 4) How many posts? About 20, it seems. un1: Thanks. The 101st is here! Schulmanator: Agreed. deathtopumpkins: 1) Your HRS still has barriers? Odd. Which version do you have? 2) Brings back some memories for me, too. That's why I got them. 3) Thanks. sparrowsraven: Thank you. jacqulina: I tend to agree with you . Ntq$310: Thanks. kj4300: Thanks for your comments. Feedback is very welcome. blue sinjid: Yes, I will continue. The Asembly of Franklin Metro has taken time to pillage some signs from the GTR, and place them on I-85's HRS section. At the south terminus, there is now a speed limit sign overhead: More GTR signs have been installed at the 85-185 interchange: Across the bridge, another similar sign signals another exit: On a straight section, a speed limit overhead sign looms above both sides: After which there is yet another exit sign: Before the bridge, there is a final speed limit sign for the HRS section: Lastly, here's a shot of cars using the MIS ramp to East Franklin: That's all for today. Feel free to post any of your comments, suggestions, or questions.

I just want to see how many people out there still play those old SC games.quote> I play SC2K, but irregularly.

quote> How much time did it take for him to accumulate all that equipment?

The STEX works perfectly with Firefox -- I tried it.

I like the Burj's inclusion in the GTR, and I love the infrastructure improvements. Keep up the great work. - Patricius Maximus

THE 100TH REPLIES: sparrowsraven: Correct. un1: Partially right. It's a spur and a blast pad. flyinbird93: Hope you won't be antsy after this . deathtopumpkins: Correct. Thanks for your comments. sedimenjerry: It's nothing unusual -- it's happened sometimes in the GTR. sim-Al2: Your advice is noted. However, that's one of the advantages of Simcity . Ntq$310: Yes, it's connected. Archean: I certainly have. Do not be fooled by the simple title of this update, as this is no ordinary update. It's Franklin's 100th. Very few CJ's have reached this milestone, and it is a prestigious group. Not even the GTR has exceeded number 100, although it will soon. I don't know what I did right at the beginning and the middle, and I do not seek that answer, except on sleepless nights, as I do not plan to try to replicate Franklin's success. In effect, that means that I plan on continuing Franklin County for the forseeable future. So, let's get on with... And here is some important news: The HRS section of I-85 has been extended to accomodate a new spur and a Semi-Directional T: Southbound the section continues to curve: And then it terminates: Now back to the spur, which has been given the designation of SR-185, and is the only highway in Franklin that is elevated: Notice the SC3K-esque walls, generously provided by Mrtnrln, and avaliable on the STEX. Futhur out, we see the highway curve, and the airport itself: Here's a close-up of SR-185's western terminus: SR-185 then turns into an at-grade avenue, with a SAM street providing terminal access: Notice the retail shops, which have taken advantage of the location . And here is an overview of the entire airport, with 2 runways and 2 areas -- one for small jets, one for large jets: Lastly, a close-up of the small-jet area: As you know from the latest Chronicles issue, the Agonus lander has been launched, with backing from Calder City, Flint, and others: After the last stage seperated, the orbiter/lander speeds on it's way to Agonus: That's all for the 100th. Please post comments, suggestions, and questions.

The DOT approves all of DTP's proposals as stated in Update 25. Glad you found the time to make an update -- we've been starved over at the Franklin Chronicles. FC's 100th update will be coming soon . Patricius Maximus, Head of the Department of Transportation

Here is my example, a sunken stack in an industrial area:

Well, it appears a breakup has benefited the area. Very good CJ, highway, and scenery. You also have nice suburbs and forests.

tepodon: How did you get that cloverleaf on water? psander5: Good interchanges for a newcomer at it . I'm no road geek, so I don't know how you'd classify all of thesequote> Easy. Per interchange... 1: Classic Diamond 2: Full Cloverleaf 3: Classic Diamond 4: Classic Diamond (I tried it once myself; it works good ) 5: An unusual dumbbell interchange Hope that helped. - Patricius Maximus

A TEASER OF THE 100TH UPDATE REPLIES: un1: Thanks. rusty_777: The HRS has been put to good use. Thanks for your comments. Ntq$310: Glad you think so. Tyler26101: 1) Wow, that's a lot of rivers. 2) Hmm, that is slow. 3) Yes, FHW is the Maxis freeway -- it's a term related to RHW, and is mostly used in interchange discussion. 4) I like your new sig. sedimenjerry: Thanks. blue sinjid: I agree. edmonton_stinks: Thank you for your comments. deathtopumpkins: 1) It's a pretty good set -- I have 3 sets myself . 2) Thanks. flyinbird93: Your absence is understandable. Thanks for your comments. In the run-up to the 100th update, I've built a very large new development in Central Franklin that'll be featured in the next update: Guess what it is . Please post comments, suggestions, and questions.

MINOR IMPROVEMENTS REPLIES: deathtopumpkins: 1) That's alright. Happened to me a couple of times in the AFDES Summit. 2) Yes, if only... 3) Like a tourist centre map? Thank you. sedimenjerry: 1) You think so? Maybe you could get a subscription . 2) Not this page . Ntq$310: Thanks. Twenty20: I agree. un1: Thank you. Tyler26101: 1) To nowhere? Well, if at first you don't succeed, try, try again. 2) Acer Aspire? Those things have a grudge on me... 3) Hehe.. A rather convenient outage . I hope your 'reborn' region will prosper like Patian County. blue sinjid: I'm glad you'll modify your highway system. A little infrastructure improvement can go a long way. edmonton_stinks: Yes, it is. The newspaper vote was 4-1 in the affirmiative. So, a newspaper will be included in the 100th update. Throughout Franklin Metro, I've been making some cosmetic changes and minor infrastructure improvement. First, I've replaced the concrete retaining walls in North Franklin with JRJ Rural walls: Also, the newest interchange there has been fitted with the walls: I've also downloaded the recently completed asphalt textures for the Highway Re-Styling Mod. As a consequence, I-85 through Central Franklin is looking better: I've also converted the southern bridge to a plain highway bridge, increasing capacity: Here's a close-up of the terminus of the FHW section: In the north stretch, the stone arch bridge has been replaced by an under-truss bridge: That's all for now. I hope you enjoyed the minor infrastructure improvements. Please post comments, suggestions, and questions.

CLOVERSTACK ON THE SPUR REPLIES: Tyler26101: So do I.... xVINCENTx: Thanks. SirUnger: Thank you. deathtopumpkins: 1) You may see one later . 2) The people have good taste . un1: Glad you think so. haljackey: Well, my rock mod looks good in most areas. I'm glad you like the highway curve. Switching to the forementioned spur, I've finished the next interchange north of the southern terminus, which is a cloverstack: Notice the use of rural walls, which is a change from the usual retaining walls . Please post comments, suggestions, and questions.

Decided to drop in just now, and I must say that I have a good impression overall. You have good mods, good building skills, and good instincts. The only thing I'd advise is building your interchange skills -- look at the GTR and my CJ's for inspiration. Also look at the Show Us Your Interchanges! thread. Haljackey: The texture set is complete now.... Keep up the good work. - Patricius Maximus

THE LONG-PROMISED NEWSPAPER REPLIES: haljackey: 1) Thank you. 2) Well, most of the time I have 'RHW mania' and forget all about it. But I am looking forward to it. un1: 1) Ah, I looked at it on Google Maps, and I do agree with you. 2) Thanks. xVINCENTx: Thank you very much. sedimenjerry: Thanks for your compliments. sparrowsraven: 1) Thank you. 2) I state now that I will not upload the Franklin map as long as this CJ is active. However, I will upload it when it is inactive (if it ever is inactive ). Ntq$310: Actually, they were jeronij's. Financial support is good enough for me, although if we need a launch pad I'll ask you first. Tyler26101: 1) Bah, those school computers don't work half the time anyway. I have a Toshiba Satellite, and that series is the best I've ever had -- but they do develop quirks. Sometimes I think they have a personality . 2) Never achieve? Then try it! Prove to yourself that you can. It'll bring increased morale. 3) Then try to get a proper CJ; if you want one, that is. deathtopumpkins: Then I'll be awaiting your comment. It's now ca. 13:30 EDT. The long-promised newspaper has arrived. I'm still undecided as to whether to include one with the 100th update, so I'll make a poll. The poll will go on until the next update. Here's the newspaper: Yes, I know the Charter section is long -- but read it -- it's quite educational. In fact, most of it was unchanged since the first draft, which I wrote. I kind of feel like Thomas Jefferson. He wrote the Declaration of Independence single-handed. There is little news to report in Virgin Shores, so that column has been temporarily discontinued. Your vote is appreciated, and... ...Please post comments, suggestions, and questions.

Funny easter egg... however I think that it's a bit teasing (in a harmless way ). - Patricius Maximus

ON THE WATERFRONT REPLIES: deathtopumpkins: I'm glad you can't wait . I've sent you a PM with the GIMP link. un1: Thanks. Taking a detour today, to a waterfront freeway, the first of it's kind in Patian County: Haljackey has experimented with this concept before, and I thought I'd try it myself as a bypass around a future city. Here's the bend towards the water: To accomodate a harbor, the embanked highway raises up towards a bridge so ships can pass under: And, to the east, a waterfront interchange, this time with a Maxis Semi-Directional T: Going on a diagonal embankment in the middle of the river, another bridge goes over the harbor: And here the highway finds terra firma in an island, which is the first development in the area. It interfaces with an avenue via a compact diamond: Note: West is up in the above pic. The highway slithers across the island, eventually reaching the end and going east on an embankment: That's all for now. Please post comments, suggestions, and questions.