Time Zone |
America/Chicago |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC-6 |
Daylight Saving Time |
UTC-5 |
Time Zone |
Pacific/Funafuti |
Standard Time GMT / UTC |
UTC+12 |
Daylight Saving Time |
Daylight saving time is not observed in the current region. |
Ruby is a small incorporated town in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana, United States, located about 60 miles northeast of the state capital of Baton Rouge and adjacent to the Mississippi border, and characterized by a quiet rural atmosphere and a deep community culture. Sparsely populated, with fewer than 500 people according to the most recent census, the town dates back to the late 1800s and, with its early rise to an agricultural economy (e.g., cotton and soybean farming), still retains the rustic look of a traditional Southern town. The town's landmarks include a century-old community church and several Victorian-style homes, and the annual fall "Ruby Family Day," which blends elements of local Cajun and Creole culture, has become a shared memory for the surrounding residents. Despite its small size, Ruby epitomizes the serenity of the American countryside with its simple folk and distinctive Louisiana southern flavor.
Waiaku is the capital and main atoll of the Pacific island nation of Tuvalu, located on the narrow island of Funafuti Atoll. As one of the smallest national capitals in the world, Waiau houses most of Tuvalu's government offices, the main port and the only hospital, and is home to about half of the country's population.
With an average elevation of only 2 meters above sea level and a highest point of less than 5 meters, Vaiaku is the most vulnerable capital city in the world to the threat of sea level rise. The local climate is tropical maritime, with an average annual temperature of around 29°C, and relies on rainwater harvesting and desalination as its main source of water.
The economy is based on fishing, copra exports and foreign aid. Waiaku retains a distinctive Polynesian culture, with traditional dances, handicrafts and canoe-making skills still active. Weekly church choirs are an important part of community life.
Connected to Fiji through the Funafuti International Airport, the territory relies heavily on walking and motorcycles. Vaiyaku is facing an existential crisis due to increased coastal erosion as a result of climate change, and Australia has signed an agreement with Tuvalu to receive climate refugees.