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Fishing Boats New Search for Energy

Drift Energy is a British startup focused on pioneering a new form of mobile renewable energy. The company is developing a fleet of high-tech sailing vessels equipped with underwater turbines and onboard megawatt-class electrolyzers to harness ocean winds and produce green hydrogen. Using artificial intelligence routing algorithms, such as their “Goldilocks” system, these vessels optimize their locations to capture ideal wind conditions, generating and storing gigawatts of clean energy. Founded by Ben Medland in 2021, Drift Energy aims to support the global energy transition, particularly for industries like shipping and small island nations, with a long-term goal of abating one gigatonne of CO2 by 2050. The startup has gained recognition for its sustainability efforts, winning the Startups 100 Sustainability Award in 2025 and a COP 28 award, and recently raised £4.65 million to expand its innovative fleet.

Goodbye SS United States

SS United States leaving the Philadelphia Harbor

What is a “Boater” Hat?

USS Sequoia

The USS Sequoia was a former presidential yacht used by nine U.S. Presidents from Herbert Hoover to Jimmy Carter, serving from 1931 to 1977. Often referred to as the “floating White House,” it was a venue for both social events and significant political meetings, including discussions on atomic power and NATO formation. The yacht was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1987 due to its historical significance. President Jimmy Carter sold Sequoia in 1977 as part of his initiative to reduce government spending. Since then, the yacht has had several private owners and is currently undergoing restoration with plans to reopen for public access

What does “In My Wheelhouse” Mean?

Exploring the Phrase “In My Wheelhouse”

In the rich tapestry of the English language, idioms serve as colorful threads that add depth and nuance to our conversations. One such idiom that has found its way into both casual and professional discourse is “in my wheelhouse.” Here’s an exploration of its origins, meanings, and uses.

Origins and Meaning

The phrase “in my wheelhouse” derives from the nautical term “wheelhouse,” which refers to the enclosed compartment on a ship or boat where the steering wheel is located. This is where the captain or helmsman would stand to navigate the vessel, making it the control center for the ship’s direction.

When something is said to be “in one’s wheelhouse,” it means that it is within one’s area of expertise, comfort, or control — much like steering a ship is within the captain’s control when he’s in the wheelhouse. The expression implies competence, confidence, and familiarity with the subject or task at hand.

Usage in Modern Context

  • Professional Settings: In business or sports, the phrase is often used to denote tasks or roles that align perfectly with someone’s skills or interests. For example, a baseball player might say, “Hitting fastballs is right in my wheelhouse,” meaning it’s something they do particularly well. Similarly, in a corporate environment, an employee might remark, “Project management is definitely in my wheelhouse,” indicating they have the necessary skills and experience to handle such tasks effectively.
  • Cultural and Media References: The phrase has permeated popular culture. It’s commonly heard in sports commentary, reality shows, and even political discussions to denote someone’s forte. For instance, a commentator might say, “Foreign policy is in his wheelhouse,” when discussing a politician’s strengths.
  • Everyday Language: Beyond professional or specialized contexts, “in my wheelhouse” is used in everyday conversations to indicate when something is up one’s alley. From discussing hobbies, “Cooking is in my wheelhouse,” to personal traits, “I’m good with numbers; it’s in my wheelhouse,” the idiom has become a versatile part of conversational English.

Evolution and Adaptation

Like many idioms, “in my wheelhouse” has evolved from its literal nautical roots to a metaphorical expression used across various domains. This evolution reflects how language adapts to new contexts and technologies — ships still exist, but the concept of control and expertise has been abstracted into broader applications.

Cultural Impact and Criticism

While the idiom is generally well-received for its vivid imagery and applicability, there are criticisms or points to consider:

  • Exclusivity: When someone claims something is “in their wheelhouse,” it might inadvertently suggest that others might not be as adept in that area, potentially leading to gatekeeping or exclusion in professional settings.
  • Overuse: As with many popular phrases, there’s a risk of overuse, which could dilute its impact or make it seem cliché.

Conclusion

“In my wheelhouse” stands as a testament to how language can evolve while retaining its core meaning. It’s a reminder of our shared maritime heritage, yet it’s flexible enough to navigate through the diverse currents of modern life. Whether you’re discussing your professional skills, personal passions, or just explaining why you’re the best person for a job, this idiom is a useful expression to have in your linguistic toolkit — or should we say, in your wheelhouse.

nautical terminology

other sailing idioms

include examples

Tapping the Admiral

How Deep is the Ocean?

  • Challenger DeepThe deepest known point in the ocean is Challenger Deep, which is located in the Mariana Trench in the western Pacific Ocean. It’s approximately 35,876 feet (10,935 meters) deep, which is deeper than Mount Everest is tall. 
  • Other deep pointsOther deep points in the ocean include:
    • RMS Titanic: Located in the Atlantic Ocean, the RMS Titanic is 12,500 feet (3,810 meters) below the surface. 
    • Soviet nuclear submarine K-129: Located at 16,500 feet (5,029 meters). 
    • Milwaukee Deep: Located in the Puerto Rico Trench, Milwaukee Deep is 27,493 feet (8,380 meters) deep. 
    • Molloy Hole: Located in the Arctic Ocean, Molloy Hole is 18,599 feet (5,669 meters) below the surface. 

Doctor Odyssey

Behind the scenes of Doctor Odyssey

If ER and the Love Boat had a cocktail and waited 9 months this might be the show. Ahoy, drama lovers! Ryan Murphy’s Doctor Odyssey just set sail on ABC, and boy, it’s a wild ride. Imagine Grey’s Anatomy—but on a luxury cruise ship. Enter Dr. Max Bankman (Joshua Jackson), a physician with a heart of gold and a past cloudier than the weather at sea. Medical emergencies? Check. Intricate personal drama? Double check. A rogue wave of emotions? Triple check.

This show is like watching Titanic… if Leo had a stethoscope and a clipboard. Tune in for life-or-death situations and romantic chaos, all while on vacation!

How to get your sea legs back

How to Survive Seasickness: A Lifeline for the Nautically Nauseous

  1. Ginger everything: Tea, candies, gingerbread men… it’s nature’s anti-nausea wonder.
  2. Pressure wristbands: Because nothing says “I’m cool” like acupressure accessories.
  3. Stay mid-ship: Less motion. Less vomit. Science.
  4. Look at the horizon: Your body’s confused—let your eyes tell it you’re not spiraling into oblivion.
  5. Medication: Dramamine, but maybe save the drowsy version for bedtime unless drooling on deck is your thing.

Now, go forth, brave sailor… or don’t.

WGN NEWS 9

WGN-TV, Channel 9, is a major independent television station based in Chicago. It first began broadcasting in 1948 and has been a key part of the city’s media landscape ever since. Known for its tagline “Chicago’s Very Own,” WGN offers a mix of local news, weather, sports, and entertainment. The station has a long history of producing original programming, including its famous morning news show.

Its news division, WGN News, covers everything from Chicago’s politics to national and international events, all with that classic local flavor.

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