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The programme will continue to be sponsored and supported by a range of public and private sector organisations.
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text:
Steam Turbines: San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station Gets Upgraded Generator Rotors
Nuclear: Realistic Simulation Assists in Nuclear Power Plant Certification
From the onset of the civilian nuclear era (marked by President Dwight Eisenhower's "Atoms for Peace" speech to the United Nations in 1953), there has been a strong awareness of the importance of safety within the nuclear energy industry. Western experts have devoted much time and effort to ensuring the integrity of reactor cores and facility containment. The only major accidents in the history of civilian nuclear power — Three Mile Island in the U.S. (1979) and Chernobyl in Ukraine (1986) — are offset by more than 12,700 cumulative reactor-years of safe commercial operation in 32 countries.
Global cooperation on nuclear safety issues is now widespread. In 1996, the U.N.'s International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) ratified the Convention on Nuclear Safety. This was the first international legal instrument to establish mandatory benchmarks for nuclear plant siting, design, construction, operation, resourcing, assessment, and verification of safety, quality assurance, and emergency preparedness. All countries with operating nuclear power facilities are party to the convention and are expected to bring their plants up to the latest IAEA standards.
Some 439 commercial nuclear power plants around the globe now supply upwards of 16% of the world's electrical energy needs. Most of them produce steam-driven electric power from uranium-fueled reactors. The majority are high-pressurized, "cold-water" units; others use boiling water at lower pressures. In addition, some 240 research reactors are currently being used to generate radioactive materials for scientific and defense purposes. (Four hundred more of these have either been shut down or decommissioned.)
Aging Nuclear Facilities Need Attention
Regardless of the type of reactor, an integral part of safety assurance is the mitigation of facility aging. Originally designed for 30- to 40-year operating lives, the systems, structures, and components (collectively known as the SSC) of nuclear plants can change with time or use. Some components simply wear out, corrode, or degrade. Instrument and control systems may become obsolete as newer technologies evolve. Complicating the issue further, the properties of critical materials may also change through heat and neutron irradiation.
Identifying and correcting such longevity issues can extend the operating license of a plant by several decades, which is why the upgrading of older facilities is now a major focus of nuclear regulatory bodies and plant operators everywhere. At the same time, the newest facilities are being held to the highest standards of quality to ensure a lifetime of safe operation.
"The structural integrity and operational management of nuclear facilities must be secured far into the future — whatever the type or age of the plant," says Wolfgang Hienstorfer, head of the department of structural analysis at TÜV SÜD ET, a leading global technical service corporation, located in Filderstadt, Germany.
Hienstorfer's team independently tests, inspects, and certifies nuclear facilities for licensing by the German government. He is also chairman of the advisory group on nuclear facility aging management for Germany's Nuclear Safety Standards Commission, as well as a technical consultant to the IAEA on nuclear facility aging. Many recommendations that he has developed during two decades of work at TÜV have been incorporated into existing international standards. "On behalf of the regulatory bodies, we encourage the power utilities to follow the latest relevant research findings, whether they are maintaining an older plant or designing and building a new one," he says.
FEA Assists in Safety Evaluation
For accurate evaluation of nuclear plant SCC, Hienstorfer's group employs Abaqus finite element analysis (FEA) software from SIMULIA, the Dassault Systèmes brand for realistic simulation. "Abaqus is a very useful and powerful tool for many aspects of our work," says Hienstorfer (who also used it for aircraft crash analysis as a young engineer at Germany's equivalent of NASA). "The processes of sensitive industrial facilities are very complex, and FEA helps us evaluate the safety margins in a more sophisticated way."
TÜV uses Abaqus to analyze stress loads over a wide range of scenarios such as rapid temperature and/or pressure changes, airplane impact, earthquakes, and radiation embrittlement. The software analyzes everything from key mechanical components — including pumps, piping systems, vessels, supports, and tanks — to fuel assemblies, building structures, and lifting devices such as cranes.
Modern nuclear plants are extremely well built to protect the facility from exterior damage: Thick concrete shells can withstand aircraft impact, while plants in earthquake zones are strongly buffered against seismic activity. An ongoing interior focus of regulators today is the reactor pressure vessel (RPV), the steel heart of the power plant that houses the nuclear fuel rods.
Strict Standards for Nuclear Reactors
A nuclear power plant using fission to produce steam that drives electric generators is subject to temperature and pressure stresses similar to those at any other kind of steam facility. But the possibility of pressurized thermal shock (PTS) affecting a radiation-embrittled RPV is unique to the nuclear industry. This is because bombardment from neutrons can, over time, alter the molecular makeup of the metal from which an RPV is built. This makes the vessel more prone to structural damage under stress. In a classic loss-of-coolant (LOC) accident scenario, a broken pipe in the primary system deprives the reactor core of vital coolant, and the hot vessel (at 300C) is then subjected to extreme PTS as colder water (at 30C) is rapidly piped into the vessel to cool the core and shut the reactor down.
IAEA standards require that RPVs have a proven ability to withstand this kind of event in order to receive certification (and also recertification at regular intervals) for operation. "You have to document the damage tolerance of the systems, structures, and components of a plant to pass inspection," says Hienstorfer. "FEA is an integral part of that analysis."
FEA can be used for virtual testing to provide guidance for new designs in the early stages of product development as well as for performance assessment of existing components under simulated stress conditions.
TÜV Models a Reactor Pressure Vessel with Abaqus
A typical FEA analysis of an RPV takes into account temperature transients, internal pressure fields, and the radiation embrittlement behavior of the vessel during a simulated LOC event. (The case described here is taken from an actual evaluation by TÜV at the recertification of a power plant in Germany.) The simulations examine stresses both at vessel walls and at entry points of the hot and cold water nozzles feeding into the RPV (Figure 10).
10. Nozzle flow. An exterior view of the nozzles (with red caps) through which hot and cold water circulate into and out of a nuclear reactor pressure vessel that houses the fuel rods. Courtesy: Westinghouse
To create their FEA evaluation models, TÜV engineers first obtained component condition data for the vessel and nozzles from nondestructive x-ray and/or ultrasound testing. "You must verify the initial condition of the RPV before setting up your models," says Hienstorfer. Every vessel is plant-specific. In the case described here, the material was ferrite steel coated with austenitic cladding to prevent the load-carrying ferrite layer from corrosion. The embrittlement of the metal over time was represented by end-of-life calculations based on existing data from irradiated material.
Next, Abaqus/CAE was used to build and mesh computer models of the vessel and the four water pipe nozzles that fed into it. Using larger, linear hexahedral elements reduced computation time for solving the global model (Figure 11), while smaller, quadratic hexahedral elements were used in the submodels (Figure 12) for more accurate depiction of stresses at the edges of nozzles. The global model had 22,650 elements and 76,650 degrees of freedom (DOF), whereas a typical submodel contained 10,900 elements with 144,000 DOF.
11. Shock treatment. This is a one-fourth cutaway view of a reactor pressure vessel at the start of a pressurized thermal shock simulation by TÜV, using Abaqus FEA from SIMULIA. The vessel, which normally operates at 300C (indicated in red), is shown as cooler water (30C) begins pouring in through the nozzle on the top right. (Units are degrees Celsius.) Source: TÜV
12. Thermal shock wave. This Abaqus FEA half model of a reactor pressure vessel shows the nozzle opening (shown as holes in Figures 11 and 13) through which cold water is quickly introduced to shut down the reactor, resulting in pressurized thermal shock. TÜV requires virtual testing of nuclear power plant components as part of the certification process. (Units are degrees Celsius.) Source: TÜV
Simulating Pressurized Thermal Shock
With their FEA models set up on a Dell Workstation PWS670 with a 3 GHz Xeon CPU, the TÜV team then used Abaqus/Standard for linear elastic simulation of the rapid cooling of the vessel, calculating the effects of a large increase in the tensile stresses on the inner vessel wall. This increase is the result of two phenomena.
First, the thermal conductivity of the two materials (cladding and base) is different, so each reacts differently to the rapid temperature change. Second, the emergency injection of colder water creates a temperature plume (temperatures inside the plume are significantly lower than those outside) that produces significant stress buildup at its leading edge (Figure 13).
13. All stressed out. The same reactor vessel as shown in Figure 11, but further into the pressurized thermal shock simulation, shows the stress distribution on the inner wall of the reactor pressure vessel (from red to blues and greens. (Units are degrees Celsius.) Source: TÜV
In addition to the simulation of such rapid temperature fluctuations, the effect of the high pressures under which the system would be operating was incorporated into the models. An elastic/plastic Abaqus simulation completed the virtual testing of PTS and predicted where the greatest surface and/or volumetric stresses would occur in the system. An average time transient for a full simulation was 8,000 seconds. The simulations were run well beyond the required tolerance levels, all the way to the point at which cracking would occur; such additional data are useful for fracture mechanics analyses and can be used in the future by inspectors, says Hienstorfer.
Compliance with Safety Regulations
The RPV in the example discussed here passed TÜV's simulation testing, validating that its walls and nozzles would withstand the extreme conditions of a LOC event over the 40-year lifespan of the facility. "The Abaqus FEA calculations helped evaluate compliance of the vessel with regulatory safety requirements," says Hienstorfer.
The successful design, development, and lifetime maintenance of nuclear power facilities is a challenge that must be carefully managed from both an organizational and an engineering viewpoint, says Hienstorfer. He sees FEA as having an integral role to play in both operational evaluation and ongoing monitoring of nuclear facilities to assist in complying with regulations designed to ensure that the world's growing energy needs can be met safely.
"We depend on FEA for computer modeling and virtual testing of reactor pipelines, vessels, and materials under extremes of stress and time," he says. "It definitely provides guidance to engineers to build both safety and longevity into their nuclear power plant designs."
— Contributed by Tim Webb (tim.webb@3ds.com), director of marketing communications and programs, SIMULIA Strategy and Marketing.
More O&M News

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
import featuredThreads from 'forum/client/reducers/featured_threads';
import {
  GET_FEATURED_THREADS
} from 'forum/client/constants';

describe('featuredThreads reducer', () => {
  it('should return initial state of empty array', () => {
    const reducer = featuredThreads(undefined, {});
    expect(reducer).toEqual([]);
  });

  it('should return list of threads with GET_FEATURED_THREADS', () => {
    const threads = [
      {_id: '1', title: 'hi'},
      {_id: '2', title: 'yo'},
    ];
    const reducer = featuredThreads(undefined, {
      type: GET_FEATURED_THREADS,
      featuredThreads: threads
    });
    expect(reducer).toEqual(threads);
  })
})

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Let's just get started right here. I know, I know – you don't like her. You think she's had too much plastic surgery and figures out a way to make a dollar out of every piece of publicity, good and bad. I agree. But here's the thing: during those glimpses we get of her where she's not trying to make a buck for herself and her family, she seems like a good mother. They come far and few between but sometimes we see her give the oldest girls good pieces of advice. She tries…sometimes.
We could go a lot of places with this but really? Nene is a good mother and there's no shade behind it. She clearly wants the best for her children, especially her oldest Bryson who can't seem to get his life together. She tries to help keep him motivated but she won't be disrespected or let him think he's going to run HER. Even in talking about her divorce from her husband Greg, she wasn't thinking about cameras from what I could see; she was thinking about how her children (Bryson and youngest son, Brentt) would take it and how they would adjust. At the Housewives reunion, she looked like she was ready to jump down Sheree's throat for bringing up her children in a negative light. Gotta love it!
*sigh* You all love her and I can respect that. Mama Jones loves her rapper son, Jim, to the point where she doesn't want another woman in his life that might "steal" him from her. Enter Chrissy Lampkin. She became a threat to Mama Jones and because of that, we saw lots arguing and selfishness from Mama Jones on Love & Hip-Hop for no reason. But because she is the mom, she conceded and decided to put forth an effort in being nice to Chrissy for the sake of her son. Awwww.
Lala's wedding to hubby Carmelo landed them a VH1 special and she's been soaring ever since. She's on her second season of Lala's Full Court Life which features many of her friends as well as she and Melo's cutie pie son, Kiyan. While Lala does kick it hard – and someone was even bold enough to dub her "First Lady of New York" because Melo is a Knick – she always makes time for Kiyan and they look like they have a good time. She always makes it clear that it is her most important job.
By far, one of the funniest shows in the "reality" world is hers. Niecy's kids are chips off the old block with senses of humor that will have you side eying and crying laughing at the same time. Although Niecy is what many would call a "hip" mom, she also has a no-nonsense stance when it comes to raising her children. With any luck, the show will be renewed and we'll see them next season.
When she isn't jumping across tables like a jerk, spitting out fake threats or throwing bottles because she doesn't seem fearless enough to throw an actual punch, we can find Evelyn spending some time with her daughter, Shaniece. Although Shaniece is in college finding her own way (and hopefully trying to separate herself from the embarrassing ways of her mother), they seem to remain relatively close.
The newest editions to the reality show world but certainly not to the world of parenting are Erika and Tina, more popularly known as Mary Mary. Their show (which goes by the group's name) only premiered a couple of months ago and they're a hit! Between the two of them, they have 8 children. *rocks slow* Those are some busy houses, don't you think?! From what we've been able to see, when they're not working hard at business or taking a sisters trip which included a stripper pole, they are amazing mothers and wives. We salute the latest reality stars.
"You will not disrespect me and the next time you do it, I'ma slap the piss out of you." If that isn't an old school mama, I don't know what is! THAT is what Mama Braxton told Tamar when she'd gotten beside herself during the last season of Braxton Family Values. Evelyn is warm, loving and funny; at the same time, she's brutally honest and takes no mess from her children. She's also as fly as she wants to be about 63 years old. You better WORK, Mama Braxton!


text:
Get The Latest On The Outbreak
Registrar of voters says county should transition to vote-by-mail this November
by: Eytan Wallace
Posted: Apr 16, 2020 / 06:03 PM PDT / Updated: Apr 16, 2020 / 06:51 PM PDT
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — The Kern County registrar of voters is backing an idea to make the November election 100 percent vote-by-mail.
In a Bakersfield Californian op-ed, Bedard said support for in-person voting is "exactly the wrong approach" amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Instead she's calling on the governor to "…issue an executive order authorizing 100 percent vote-by-mail while encouraging counties to make in-person voting opportunities available in a manner consistent with public health and safety."
She noted the governor already issued a similar executive order for special elections next month, adding vote-by-mail would not be difficult in Kern County, where more than 70 percent of the ballots cast during the March 3rd primary election were vote-by-mail.
President Trump has said he would support vote-by-mail for the elderly and those with health conditions, but otherwise, he believes it could lead to voter fraud.
"All of the things that are happening with votes by mail — where thousands of votes are gathered and I'm not going to say which party does it — thousands of votes are gathered in one location, and you lose an election you think you're going to win," Trump said during an April 8 press conference. "I won't stand for it."
17 News Republican Political Analyst Cathy Abernathy agreed.
"The politicians are looking for any excuse to change the rules. If people want to vote at the polls, that should continue. We've been doing it for years," she said.
"To have government employees and this governor trying to tell us we have to change our rules again, no. The rules they have changed — even the county elections department admits — it makes [the election have] more chaos. If you have deadlines, everything works fine. If you allow sloppiness, you get what we get in these elections."
Bedard said her office will bring a resolution before the Kern County Board of Supervisors next week, recommending Kern County join with other counties asking Gov. Newsom to issue the executive order.
Thursday marked 201 days until general election day, Nov. 3, 2020.
Local Coronavirus Resources and Information
Click here to see our list of local Event Cancellations.
Click here for a list of local closed schools, businesses, restaurants and more.
Supply Resources
Click here for a list of local food and resource distribution.
Deliveries and Pick Ups
Click here for a list of local restaurants and stores with delivery and pick up options.


text:
2020 U.S. Election
Deaths Due To Persecution
Perpetrators Involved in Persecution of Falun Gong
Minghui's 20th Anniversary Fa Conference
Home > Persecution > Accounts of Persecution
81-year-old Man Still Detained after Prison Term Expires
June 1, 2021 | By a Minghui correspondent in Liaoning Province, China
(Minghui.org) Instead of releasing an 81-year-old man when his 3-year prison term expired on April 8, 2021, the authorities in Dalian City, Liaoning Province, transferred him to a detention center. Mr. Liu Xiyong's family is being kept in the dark concerning his current situation and it's not clear how long he will be held at the detention center.
Mr. Liu is being targeted for upholding his faith in Falun Gong, an ancient spiritual discipline that has been persecuted by the Chinese communist regime since 1999. Prior to his latest three-year term, he served another three and a half years in prison and two years in a forced labor camp.
Mr. Liu Xiyong
Mr. Liu had several health problems before he began practicing Falun Gong in 1997. In particular, his legs hurt, but modern medicine could not diagnose the problem or offer any relief. Later the leg pain was so severe that he could hardly work or take care of himself.
In August 1997, he started to practice Falun Gong and live by the principles of Truthfulness-Compassionate-Forbearance. He improved his character and resolved the years of conflicts with his neighbors. The leg pain that had tormented him for many years went away. After he regained his health, he readily helped others in need and the villagers often commented on what a good man he was.
Two Years in a Forced Labor Camp
When the Chinese Communist Party started to persecute Falun Gong on July 20, 1999, Mr. Liu was shocked by the propaganda that slandered his faith. He kept telling others about his own experience with Falun Gong and raised awareness about the persecution, only to be arrested and imprisoned.
Mr. Li worked late one day in April 2002 helping the villagers fixing a well drilling machine. When he returned home around 7 p.m., the police arrested him even before he could wash his hands. He and four other Falun Gong practitioners were handcuffed and taken to the Shihe Police Station. While other practitioners paid 5,000 to 10,000 yuan in exchange for their release, Mr. Liu refused to pay anything and was given a two-year forced labor camp term without due process.
At the Dalian Forced Labor Camp, Wang Changguo, who practiced Falun Gong before but had given it up and cooperated with the authorities to persecute the practitioners, beat Mr. Liu with sticks on June 16, 2002. The next day, Wang hit Mr. Liu on the head with the sole of a shoe, trying to pressure him to give up practicing Falun Gong.
Between August and September 2002, Mr. Liu was infested with scabies due to the poor conditions in the camp. He did the Falun Gong exercises to try to recover without medical intervention. Guard Jing Dianke took him to a solitary confinement cell with the excuse of treating his scabies. Instead, five inmates held Mr. Liu down on a metal bed and beat him. Guo Peng, the lieutenant of the fifth team, kicked Mr. Liu with all his strength.
The guards also handcuffed Mr. Liu behind his back and to the bed for more than 40 days. He could not turn over, wash his face, or rinse his mouth. When Mr. Liu shouted "Falun Dafa is good" to protest the persecution, the guards knocked out several of his teeth and stuffed a rag into his mouth.
In mid-November 2003, Mr. Liu was held in solitary confinement again for clarifying the facts about Falun Gong to the captain of the 3rd team, Li Maojiang. Although Li usually didn't beat Falun Gong practitioners himself, he was the one who ordered the inmates to stretch the practitioners' arms and handcuff them to a metal bed. The practitioners were often handcuffed for about a month, sometimes for several months. Some practitioners were deprived of sleep for up to nine days and had hallucinations.
Mr. Liu was 64 years old at that time. The solitary confinement, handcuffing to the bed, and sleep deprivation caused the rapid decline of his eyesight and he could barely see. He was in terrible shape and lost the ability to take care of himself.
Arbitrary Detention
Two years after Mr. Liu was released, he was arrested again at home at 9 p.m. on April 24, 2006. The police confiscated one computer, three radio recorders, a copier, and his Falun Gong books. Both Mr. Liu and his wife were arrested. Mr. Liu was kept in the Sanli Detention Center for 28 days, and his wife was held in the Dalian Brainwashing Center for 24 days.
Torture reenactment: Beating
In Sanli Detention Center, Mr. Liu started a hunger strike to protest the persecution. The guards beat him and ordered the detention center doctor to force-feed him, not only with food, but also unknown drugs that caused his belly to swell until he could barely walk or take care of himself.
Although Mr. Li was released 28 days later, the police continued to monitor him and harass him over the telephone. To escape the harassment, Mr. Liu and his wife lived away from home for more than a year.
Sentenced to 3.5 Years in Prison
When he returned home from work around 5 p.m. on July 24, 2008, Mr. Liu was arrested again. After taking him to the police station, the police took his watch, cellphone, MP3 player, and 149 yuan in cash and returned to ransack his residence hours later.
They took Mr. Liu to the Sanli Detention Center that evening but didn't notify his family. When his family finally found out where he was five days later, the police did not let them visit him.
Mr. Liu started a hunger strike in the detention center. The police force-fed him with highly concentrated salt water, which made Mr. Liu curl up in extreme pain.
On his 40th day in the detention center, Mr. Liu was tried in the Jinzhou court. He pleaded not guilty and insisted that he didn't do anything wrong by practicing Falun Gong. The judge sentenced him to three and a half years several days later.
Mr. Liu continued his hunger strike for another 20 days. By the time he was transferred to the prison, he could not walk and was carried into the police car.
Latest Prison Term
Mr. Liu's most recent arrest was on February 26, 2017, for talking to people about Falun Gong. Although he was soon released on bail, he was ordered to appear in court eight months later on October 24, 2017, and was sentenced to three years.
The verdict Mr. Liu received was dated September 19, 2017, over one month before his court hearing even took place. Mr. Liu appealed to the Dalian City Intermediate Court on December 5, 2017. The higher court upheld the original verdict but didn't order the bailiff to execute the term.
Mr. Liu was arrested again on March 18, 2018, after being reported for talking to people about Falun Gong. Eight other practitioners were arrested with him and all were eventually sentenced to prison. Mr. Liu was released that evening but was taken back into custody on April 9. He was first held in Liaonan Xinrujianfan Prison before being transferred to Benxi Prison in May 2018.
78-Year-Old Man from Dalian City Detained for His Faith, His Wife Threatened
Guilty Verdict Against Man, 76, Issued Weeks Before His Court Appearance
Liu Xiyong, a Peasant in Dalian, Persecuted for Two Years in a Forced Labor Camp and Three and a Half Years in Prison
Mr. Liu Xiyong Persecuted Repeatedly in Dalian City
All articles, graphics, and content published on Minghui.org are copyrighted. Non-commercial reproduction is allowed but requires attribution with the article title and a link to the original article.
Category: Accounts of Persecution
"Imprisoned Woman's Family Counting Down the Days to See Her Again after Seven Years of Separation"
"Taiwan Practitioner: Putting Others First During the Covid Outbreak"
Reports of Death Cases
Confirmed Death Cases


text:
Ogmios holds a Ph.D. in anthropology, and realized about 2 years ago that the beliefs and intuition that he has had since childhood are, in fact, pagan views. He has been practicing as a solitary for just over two years – adhering to a Continental Celtic path.
by Ogmios
The term "Christian Pagan" is occasionally seen as a description of an individual who participates at some level within an established Christian church, while functioning at a deeper level as a Pagan who has yet to "come out of the broom closet". There has been a significant amount of discussion in print and on-line publications, internet discussion groups, and Pagan-friendly chat rooms regarding whether this is a "legitimate" religious position - and, whether Paganism and Christianity can be considered even remotely compatible. Fundamentally, the question comes down to: "Is Christian Paganism an oxymoron? Or, are the terms to some degree redundant?"
Answering this question revolves around three primary points: (1) How do we define Christianity? (2) What do we mean by Paganism? and, (3) Does syncretistic behavior weaken one's fundamental beliefs? This last point is critical because one can argue quite effectively that Paganism and Christianity are two of the world's most syncretistic religious positions. Let's look at these points.
Syncretism The American Heritage Dictionary defines syncretism as "the attempt or tendency to combine or reconcile differing beliefs, as in philosophy or religion." Modern Pagan practice (aka neo-Paganism - eg Wicca, Asatru, Huna) is, in general, partially a result of "handed down" wisdom, and partially a "reconstructed set of beliefs and practices". As such, it is often an amalgamation of multiple traditional belief systems. Celtic Path practitioners have no difficulty in acknowledging or calling upon an Asatru deity; modern Huna practitioners may utilize an approach primarily known through the traditional Hindu belief system; et cetera. The purist will argue that when this occurs the deity being called upon or the practice being applied "fits" the belief system being practiced; nevertheless, Frigg is not another name for Cerridwen. Julius Cæsar often attempted to draw this conclusion by linking Gallic deities to their "Roman counterparts", but -despite this historic precedent - belief systems do not have interchangeable parts.
Christianity is even more syncretistic than Paganism. A few illustrations should suffice: Christianity's immaculate conception, virgin birth, grotto/manger setting, December 25th date, attending shepherds, Madonna and Child images, Easter eggs, and All Saints Day are all drawn from other religions. This is actually a very common practice among major religions (appropriating pieces from each other), and does not necessarily detract from the validity of the underlying message of the particular faith.
What is Christianity? Christianity is, at its most fundamental, the expression of religious faith that is based upon the life and teachings of the Jew that became known to followers as "the Christ". The term Christus is a Latin equivalent to the Hebrew Messiah, and merely indicates one who is "anointed". This could refer to a political anointing (e.g, a king) or, in the case of Christ, a spiritual anointing (i.e. the Son of God). The most fundamentalist and traditionalist Christians (e.g. Baptist, Mennonite, Roman Catholic, Orthodox) generally consider Christ to be "God incarnate" - literally, God in human flesh (i.e. Jesus of Nazareth). Over the years, there have been serious divisions within the Christian religion over specific, intricate interpretations of exactly what this means. Early groups such as the Arians and Donatists, as well as more recent groups (such as some of the modern Protestant denominations) have had difficulty accepting the seemingly illogical "Three in One", "Three in Person, One in Substance", and "It's a Mystery" explanations of the Christian Trinitarian Godhead in a monotheistic religion.
Although many Christians would like to define Christianity to include only those people who believe as they do (and require a belief that "Jesus is God in human form"), the presence of so many patently Christian groups that are only comfortable with stating that Christianity is "the faith that follows the teachings and example of Jesus the Christ" requires us to broaden our basic definition of Christian to include these people as well.
What is Paganism? Describe a snowflake. It is often stated that "no two snowflakes are the same". And, this may actually be accurate (or, at least nearly so). Similarly, Paganism envelops a very broad range of beliefs - incorporating the beliefs and practices of hundreds of established paths, as well as the highly modified variations practiced by thousands upon thousands of solitaries. So, "what is Paganism?" is not an easy question to answer, although the derivation appears fairly certain: the Latin term paganus refers to a rural inhabitant, or "country dweller". It seems clear that the urban population began to equate the fact that someone was a villager (paganus) with their unique, pre-Christian religious beliefs (hence, pagan) - just as the residents of India equated a refugee from Persia (Hindi parsi) with their religious beliefs (parsiism; known in the West as Zoroastrianism). This derivation for "pagan" is similar to the derivation of heathen from a person who lived on the heath (Anglo-Saxon for "unploughed land"). If nothing else, this puts Christians in the awkward position of claiming that "paganism is a modern perversion" while simultaneously deriving the name for the followers of this "modern perversion" from pre-Christian country dwellers.
So, can someone be both? Not really; however, the two belief systems are, in many ways, more alike than they are different - particularly in their ritual and traditions. There are notable similarities between the Pagan wheel of the year and the Christian liturgical year, and this extends even more to holidays. In a number of instances, various aspects, rituals, and even the very origin of the holiday are almost certainly pagan. So, while it would be extremely difficult to conceive of someone who believes in the essence of both Christianity and Paganism, finding someone who practices both is not too difficult to imagine. The question thus becomes "why?".
The open practice of paganism often invites criticism, ridicule, potential loss of job, social ostracization, and even bodily harm - while the open practice of Christianity more likely encourages a positive popular response. As the saying goes, "it doesn't take a rocket scientist" to realize that, for many people, "passing" as Christian can significantly simplify their public life. And, although this deception may be offensive to the purist, it is generally not very difficult for the closet pagan to participate in most ostensibly Christian practices.


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On October 18, Elmwood students, staff and alumnae gathered for the unveiling of the school's new sundial.


When All You Have Left is Your Insurance!
All-Season Tires or Snows – Should You Change?
You've had a Loss. Now What?
Concerned About an Insurance Issue?
Is Your Home a High Insurance Risk?
The following is a true story provided by a member of our Association. It illustrates how important it is to be prepared for emergencies.
Our hydro went out last March, when the ice storm hit. High winds and severe cold weather hampered the efforts of the workmen who were braving the elements to repair service to the affected areas.
As I hurried back to the living room, (a matter of 90 seconds had passed) I observed the curtains were on fire, the carpet was burning, and the couch was fully engulfed in flames. The room was quickly filling with acid smoke from the burning upholstery and flames were licking at the walls and across the ceiling. Shaking as I held the fire extinguisher, I pulled the pin and managed to squeeze the trigger. Unfortunately, the small extinguisher lasted long enough to put out only half the flames on the couch. My eyes were watering profusely and I realized that this was beyond my capabilities. I dropped the extinguisher and ran out the door, directing the children ahead of me. It didn't take long before I felt the bitter cold of the night, as I was wearing my bedroom slippers and no coat.
Horrified and cold, my children and I watched as the high winds fed the fire and one window after another exploded in the night air. Although the volunteer fire department arrived after only 11 minutes, all that was left of our house, within an hour, was a blackened hulk. The second floor had fallen in on the first floor and everything was gone.
Fortunately, no one was hurt. But now with no home, no clothes and a family huddled in the cold, we needed help. I called our insurance broker who calmly offered advice, suggested a place to stay and assured me we were adequately covered. He helped make our horrible experience a little more bearable.
What started out as a simple power outage for the above family, ended in catastrophe. When disaster strikes you may not have much time to act. Learn how to protect yourself and your family in an emergency. First discuss emergency planning with your family and develop a plan that suits your needs. Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Canada, a Federal agency offers a series of self-help advice brochures for families and individuals to help you prepare for emergencies. Visit www.ocipep.gc.ca to learn more.
Insurance fraud is estimated to cost insurers over $2 billion annually. You can help eliminate automobile insurance scams – and help lower car insurance premiums – by being an informed consumer.
The Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) has released a brochure entitled: "Tips for Identifying Car Insurance Scams." It describes how some scams work, offers tips on dealing with tow truck drivers, paralegals, and healthcare providers, and lets you know what to do if you suspect fraudulent activity. This brochure is available by visiting FSCO's website at www.fsco.gov.on.ca, or by calling FSCO's 24-hour information line toll-free at 1-800-668-0128 (in Toronto call 416-250-7250).
Only you can prevent fraud. Know your rights and take action to make sure only legitimate payments are paid under your policy. It's up to you.
It is illegal for tow truck drivers to be paid a fee to refer accident victims to a particular paralegal or a repair shop. It is also illegal for paralegals to refer accident victims to a particular healthcare provider for a fee. If you suspect this is happening, report it to us, and contact the police.
Insurance is a complicated and sometimes frustrating purchase that you make each year to protect your vehicle, property, personal possessions, or business. These important purchases cannot be taken lightly!
Why deal with an independent insurance broker?
Independent insurance brokers offer added value for your premium dollars by giving you choices, quality products, sound advice, and local personal service – something you can't readily get from a call centre, or direct writer!
Independent insurance brokers are trained professionals who understand your personal insurance needs and the specific needs of your business.
Independent insurance brokers act as your insurance buyer. We "shop" the insurance marketplace to make sure you get the broadest possible coverage at a competitive premium. This is a tremendous advantage to you, and is not available from agents who only sell for one insurance company.
Finally, as part of your community, independent brokers contribute everyday by dealing locally, volunteering, sponsoring, supporting, and getting involved in activities that benefit everyone.
We sincerely hope you never experience a loss, either minor or catastrophic, but if you should, your coverage is critical. When all you have left is your insurance, it's reassuring to know your insurance coverage will be there to put you back in the position you were in prior to the loss!
It's also comforting to know that someone will be there to guide you along the way. That someone is us. That's why we proudly say: Your best insurance is an Insurance Broker!
It doesn't matter if it's in your home, office, or elsewhere, if you host a party where alcohol is being served, you are legally responsible for the actions of an intoxicated guest.
The law defines a host or "occupier" as the person who has control over the property and the power to admit or exclude visitors. This could be a homeowner, an officer of a service club, or a parent renting a banquet hall for their son, or daughter's wedding.
When it comes to occupier's liability, as the host you must take reasonable steps to protect your guests from any foreseeable risk of injury. Before a function, be sure to repair loose carpets, broken steps, uneven walkways, and any other potential hazard.
Under most liquor laws, it is an offence to serve or provide alcohol to a person who is legally intoxicated. Once a guest has reached the intoxicated limit, the host has sole responsibility for their actions until they are no longer intoxicated. This could be 24 hours, or longer, depending on the person's size and the amount of alcohol they have consumed. In addition, by providing alcohol, you can be held liable for injuries your intoxicated guest may cause to another person.
If you are a host, we recommend you remain sober, provide food for your guests, make non-alcoholic drinks available, prohibit drinking games, and stop serving alcohol at least two hours before the function is scheduled to end.
A good way to protect yourself is to purchase a Party Alcohol Liability policy to cover a licenced function. Even though many homeowner's and some commercial policies will defend you against liquor liability lawsuits, we think the cost of this type of policy is worth the peace of mind. If in doubt, call us.
Many new cars sold in Ontario come with "all-season" tires. These tires are designed to provide safe, all-weather protection, but are not suitable for snow-covered roads or extreme cold. Once the temperature drops below –10º C, all-season tires lose their grip as the tires harden. This is definitely not desirable and may account for the rising number of unexpected "loss of control" accidents in cold weather.
Years ago, snow tires were knobby and noisy. They were great for driving in the snow, but performed poorly when exposed to dry and wet road conditions. This is no longer true. Today's new snow tires are made with rubber compounds that not only handle ice, snow, and cold temperatures, but also dry, wet, or slushy driving conditions. New snow tires are marked with the pictograph of a peaked mountain with a snowflake to show they meet specific snow traction performance requirements that help you control your vehicle safely in snowy conditions.
If your winter driving is limited to regions with little snow and moderate winter temperatures, all-season tires may be suitable for you. For the rest of us, the traction and security offered by snow tires makes them the best choice. A good way to rationalize the expense of winter tires – at least $500 a set – is to remember that the cost is equal to the deductible on many auto insurance policies, which means you'll pay that much anyway if you end up in a crash. As a bonus, by switching to winter tires, you'll extend the life of your regular "all-season" tires.
A fire, a burglary, or a flood. Nobody expects it to happen to them. Unfortunately these things do occur. To help reduce the stress and inconvenience of such an event, here's what you can do before and after a claim.
Create an inventory of your home's contents using a list, photographs, or videotape. Be sure to keep a copy outside your home.
Make sure your high value items are covered. Sometimes, furs, jewellery, fine arts, and antiques are only covered to a certain limit. Review or appraise their value and confirm if additional (and separate) insurance is required.
Keep receipts on high value and high target items off site.
Update your possessions values. It's easy to overlook the costs of new furniture, appliances, computers, and entertainment electronics. Don't risk being under-insured.
Talk to your insurance broker. If you are not sure you have adequate coverage or need more information, call us, we're here to help.
Whatever the cause, you are obligated to prevent further loss or damage by securing your home or having emergency repairs done without delay. Call us, or your insurance company's 24 hour emergency number, for referrals to emergency crews and contractors to assist you.
You must be able to prove your loss. Prepare a list of lost items with the estimated cost to replace them. You may be required to provide estimates from merchants and suppliers. An inventory list with receipts would make this process fast and easy.
An insurance adjuster will be appointed by your insurer to work with you to ensure a fair and fast settlement. Co-operate with him/her.
Many expenses such as emergency repairs and additional living costs are covered by your insurance policy. Keep a record and include receipts of these expenses in your claim.
Talk to your insurance broker. A loss can be a stressful experience. If you have any concerns with your claim or settlement, we're always here to help you.
Members of the public are now more likely to sue when they have been injured on your premises due to a "slip and fall" accident. Studies show the number of claims and the amounts being paid out have increased substantially over the past few years.
All businesses and homeowners have a legal obligation to maintain their premises and ensure that anyone who comes on the property is reasonably safe.
How can I protect myself against claims?
Most "slip and fall" accidents are caused by slippery walkways, sidewalks, parking lots, uneven pavement, missing guardrails, improperly maintained staircases, wet floors, or other hazards. Your best protection is to inspect, repair, and document the state of your premises on a regular basis.
We can review your situation and provide you with tools and help to protect yourself against claims. Please call us to get started.
Where do you go if you have a serious complaint or concern about your insurance?
Your first step is to call us. If we can't help you resolve the issue to your satisfaction, we will recommend you make a formal complaint to your insurance company.
Every company has a procedure to deal with complaints. This starts with your insurance company's Consumer Complaint Officer (Ombudsman). A list of all Consumer Complaint Officers (Ombudsman) and their phone numbers is available on the Financial Services Commission of Ontario (FSCO) website at www.fsco.gov.on.ca.
If your issue is still not resolved, request a letter from the company stating its final position on your complaint. From here you will need to write to FSCO's Insurance Ombudsman, describe your complaint and explain why you disagree with the company's position. Make sure that you include a copy of the insurance company's letter. The Insurance Ombudsman will review your written complaint and will attempt to resolve it once and for all.
As your broker, we want to satisfy your needs and concerns as quickly as possible. If you have a serious concern about your insurance, call us first.
Take a look around your home. Are there accidents waiting to happen? Are you vulnerable to disaster, insurance claims, or perhaps a lawsuit?
Maybe it's time to practice a little risk management. This means taking action to prevent and protect yourself from some of the perils that can cause havoc in your life. Many insurance companies are implementing their own risk management practices, such as, regulating the age of oil tanks in order to prevent oil spills and requiring proper woodstove installations to prevent fires.
Keep your yard, stairways, and entrance-ways clear. Keep ice and snow away from your walkways and driveways.
Security systems can provide peace of mind and solid risk management. It is important to include both fire and burglary systems to protect against two of the most common types of insurance claims made on homeowner policies.
It is good practice to hire a professional chimney sweep to clean your chimney. Even if you have the tools to do it yourself, it is advisable to hire a professional periodically. Be sure to have your home furnace serviced annually for improved efficiency and to reduce the risk of carbon monoxide emissions and furnace blow-backs.
To prevent a tragic incident, it is very important to ensure that your pool area is totally inaccessible when no one is there to supervise. Make sure the fencing is complete and any gate or entranceway is securely locked.
If you live in an older home, it is advisable to have a licensed electrician inspect your system. Although there are costs involved, upgrading to a 100 or 200 amp system can make your home a safer place. You can do visual inspections around the home to check for loose wires, cracks in the plastic coating, burn marks from arcing, and improper use of electrical cords. Electrical cords should not be run under carpets and are not for permanent use. It is also important to be sure that your electrical outlets are not overloaded.
As things age around the home, be sure they are maintained, repaired, and if needed, replaced. Important areas to consider are your roof, foundation, sump pumps, bricks, mortar, siding, and oil tank.
By practicing good risk management around the home, you will reduce the risk of insurance claims, as well as the cost, and inconvenience that goes along with them.


mpress your friends with the Best Ever Easter Carrot Cake with Pineapples and Cream Cheese Frosting. Put some smiles on their faces with cute decorations and stunning presentation.
You might think it looks like a lot of work, but it is not as complicated as it seems.
In fact, I also attached my stencil for the bunnies and the eggs to simplify your life. So all you need to do is just PRINT IT OUT on A4 and carefully cut it out.
Also here is a really good step by step master class video on how to cover a cake with sugar paste/fondant by wonderful Cupcake Jemma.
I told you there is nothing to worry about, let's BAKE!
1. First of all, let's start with the cake. Preheat the oven to 150C or 325F.
2. Lightly oil 5 x 20cm cake tins. If you do not have 5 cake tins, then separate the baking process in few stages.
3. Place the sugar, oil, and eggs in a large bowl and beat together with a wooden spoon until the mixture thickens and becomes smooth.
4. Sift over the flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, cinnamon, nutmeg and all spice, then fold in until well mixed.
5. Finally, fold in grated carrots, chopped walnuts and add vanilla extract.
6. Divide the mixture equally between the prepared cake tins. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden.
7. Pull the cakes from the oven and leave to cool down in tins for 10-15 minutes.
8. Pull cakes from the tins and leave for another 20-30 minutes to cool down completely.
9. While the cakes are baking/cooling down let's make the the cream cheese frosting and Swiss meringue buttercream.
1. For the cream cheese frosting combine the butter and icing sugar in a large bowl until light and fully combined.
2. Fold the cream cheese in the mixture and continue mixing with wooden spoon.
3. Finally, add vanilla extract and pinch of salt, mix all together leave it in the fridge while you prepare Swiss meringue buttercream.
1. To make Swiss meringue buttercream whisk together the egg whites and sugar in a medium heatproof bowl.
3. To pasteurize the meringue, keep whisking until the mixture registers 70°C or 160°F on an instant-read thermometer (a really useful tool in the kitchen), then remove from heat.
4. Using a hand mixer, beat the warm mixture until the meringue holds stiff peaks and has cooled to room temperature.
5. Add vanilla, butter one cube at a time, beating well with the electric mixer. Sprinkle with salt and continue to mix. The mixture may start to look as if it's separating during this process but don't panic: just keep beating and the buttercream will come together and become smooth in the end.
1. Now when all ingredients are ready we can start to assemble the cake: trim the top of each individual cake taking off about 5mm or more with a long sharp knife. You should end up with 5 neat, tidy and equal pieces.
2. Take the first cake and place onto a flat plate or cake board. Spoon some Swiss meringue buttercream in a piping bag and and pipe around the edge. This will prevent the soft cream cheese filling from leaking when you put another cake on top.
3. Spread evenly the cream cheese frosting and add small pineapple chunks.
4. Put another cake on top and repeat same way with all of them apart from the last one.
5. Next, with a palette knife start to apply the rest of the Swiss meringue buttercream to the sides of the cake and the top. You will need to do two coats – first to fill in all the gaps and another one to smooth and even the cake. Put the cake in the fridge between the coats for 30-45min and when you finish with the last one.
6. Now while the cake is in the fridge we can prepare the sugarpaste. Knead it with your hand until it gets soft. Add the food colouring and roll it to about 3-5mm thick. Cover the cake trimming off excess sugarpaste skirt. Please see a very useful link above in the description on how to roll and apply the sugarpaste.
7. Finally, you can cut out your paper decorations, stick them to the toothpicks with a little piece of sticky tape and arrange them on top of your cake.
8. Add final touch – chocolate mini eggs and flowers.
It is Sunday, 16th of April.
Many probably wonder why it falls to a different day every year. Well, this is because of the differences in Jewish lunar and Egyptian sun calendars.
Nowadays the general rule is that Easter falls on the first Sunday, following the first full moon after 21st of March.
Many orthodox churches are following the Julian calendar, which often differs from the Gregorian calendar.
However, this year it falls to the same date.
Oh and don't forget about the most important fact – 76% of people eat the ears on a chocolate bunny first.
Don't know what to do with trimmed cake leftovers?
I've got an idea – cake sandwich.
Crumble all of the cake leftovers in a big bowl. Take few small shallow tins, line with cling film leaving extra on the sides so you can easily pull it out of the tin later.
Press some cake crumbs to the bottom of the tin, spoon some leftover cream cheese frosting and cover it up with another layer of crumbs.
Press again and put in a freezer for couple of hours.
Remove from the freezer, pull it out of the tin and slice it while still frozen. You can enjoy it as a ice cream sandwich straight away or eat it later when it defrost.
WOW! it looks so charming. I will definitely try to make this cake on the Easter day.
P.S. Thank you for sharing the cut out template for little bunnies. They are so cute… Love it.
Happy Easter to you and your family! Hope you are having a great time!


Treat your family to better-for-you, better-tasting beef gravy. What is it made of? Beef stock, vegetables and McCormick® herbs and spices. And with no artificial flavors, no added MSG and no gluten, it's the perfect pairing for your holiday and everyday meals and recipes.


text:
Biografia
Nata a Memel, nella Prussia Orientale (poi Klaipėda, in Lituania) Charlotta Wegmüller fece gli studi elementari a Tilsit (poi Sovetsk, in Russia) proseguendo con una scuola di canto a Mannheim. Esordì nel 1915 a Tilsit ne Il flauto magico di Mozart, avendo adottato il cognome della madre, italiana di nascita.

Interpretò vari ruoli in opere e operette rappresentate in molteplici teatri della Germania, finché nel 1926 debuttò al cinema con una piccola parte nel film Der Prinz und die Tänzerin, di Richard Eichberg. Fu il primo di 36 film, nei quali passò da ruoli di femme fatale fino a quelli drammatici di una donna criminale.

Nel 1932 firmò per la Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer e partì per gli Stati Uniti, con l'aspettativa di rivaleggiare con la Garbo, ma a Hollywood non interpretò neanche un film, rompendo il contratto e rientrando in Germania nel 1934. Qui recitò nel 1941 il suo ultimo film, Der Gasmann, con Anny Ondra e Heinz Rühmann, tornando poi al teatro.

Charlotte Susa si sposò tre volte: col regista Paul Cablin e con gli attori Arthur Malkowsky e Andrews Engelmann. Morì in Svizzera a 78 anni.

Filmografia parziale
 Der Prinz und die Tänzerin (1926)
 Der Sieg der Jugend (1927)
 Du sollst nicht stehlen (1928)
 Erotikon (1929)
 Il tigre (1930)
 Caiser contro Caiser (1931)
 La flotta delle illusioni (1934)
 Tigre reale (1935)
 Donne e carnefici (1935)
 Notte romantica (1939)
 Der Gasmann (1941)

Altri progetti

Collegamenti esterni

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


text:
Earle Heft Jr.
Earle "Bud" Clayton Heft Jr., 69, of Rockford, died peacefully in his home Thursday, Oct. 11, 2012. Funeral service was held Oct. 15 at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Rockwell, with the Rev. Rhea Evanson officiating. Interment was at Riverside Cemetery, Rockford, following lunch at the church.
Bud was born in Washington, D.C., in 1943, the son of Earle and Nora (Woldmoe) Heft Sr. He spent his childhood in Bethesda, Md., and teenage years in Royal Oak and Birmingham, Mich., suburbs of Detroit. He married the former Linda Gigliotti on Aug. 24, 1963, at Peace American Lutheran Church in Southfield, Mich., and together they followed his dreams of becoming a farmer. They moved from the city, settled near Dougherty and raised four children.
Local survivors include his son Jesse (Melissa) Heft of Ely.
Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Earle C. Heft Memorial Scholarship Fund or Hospice of North Iowa.
Condolences may be shared with the family at www.Fullertonfh.com.


text:
Here's What a Netflix-Cable Deal Could Look Like: The One That Netflix Just Announced With Apple
March 7, 2012 at 12:43 pm PT
The new Apple TV is a fairly incremental technical upgrade. But the refresh also includes at least one interesting business deal: Apple will let users sign up for Netflix directly from the device, and will let them pay for the monthly streaming service using their iTunes account.
That's the first time Netflix has handed off its customer billing to a third party. And it's a significant step for Reed Hastings and company.
For starters, it will make it that much easier for Netflix to sign up more users. But it also sets up a model for a possible Netflix-cable provider deal.
Reuters reported yesterday that Hastings was looking to bundle his service with pay-TV operators, and to deliver movies and TV shows through cable providers' set-top boxes. But people familiar with his thinking tell me the Apple TV model is a more plausible tie-up: Netflix would be happy to let cable operators take care of billing, but wants to send its video over the Web, just like it always has.
That assumes that the cable guys buy the argument Hastings has been making for some time — that his service isn't for cord-cutters, but for people who like watching lots of video, and don't mind paying another $8 for what is essentially another cable channel.
How much would Netflix be willing to pay to let a third party market its service and take on billing duties as well? I don't know.
But I have a hunch that that it's less than the 30 percent per month that Apple has previously required from subscription services that want to let users sign up via its iOS devices.
One hint: Though you'll now be able to sign up for Netflix using Apple TV, you still won't be able to do that with Apple's iPhones, iPads and iPods. Those devices will still require you to sign up somewhere else before you can stream video on their screens.
Worth noting that Netflix isn't the only outside service handing over billing to Apple. Major League Baseball is doing the same thing with its app, and presumably we'll see more down the line. Curious to see if Hulu Plus joins in.
Verizon, AT&T Get to Duke It Out Over 4G iPad; Sprint, T-Mobile Stuck on Sidelines
A Brief Hands-On With Apple's New iPad (Video)
Here's the New iPad
Post-PC Apple, By the Numbers
HBO Deals Keep Fox, Universal Out of New iCloud Movie Service
Apple Introduces LTE-Equipped iPad, Updates Apple TV
What to Watch For at Apple's Event, Besides That New iPad
Complete Apple coverage
Tagged with: Apple, Apple TV, cable, cable TV, Comcast, cord cutting, iPad, iPhone, iPod, iTunes, Netflix, Reed Hastings, Reuters, set-top boxes, TV, Web video
When AllThingsD began, we told readers we were aiming to present a fusion of new-media timeliness and energy with old-media standards for quality and ethics. And we hope you agree that we've done that.
— Kara Swisher and Walt Mossberg, in their farewell D post


Population growth and economic expansion are expected to spur employment growth for all types of dispatchers. Many dispatchers are at the entry level and do not require more than a high school diploma. Although there are no mandatory licensing or certification requirements, some states require public safety dispatchers to be certified.
Police, fire, and ambulance dispatchers, also called public safety dispatchers, monitor the location of emergency services personnel from any one or all of the jurisdiction's emergency services departments. These workers dispatch the appropriate type and number of units in response to calls for assistance. Dispatchers, or call takers, often are the first people the public contacts when emergency assistance is required. If certified for emergency medical services, the dispatcher may provide medical instruction to those on the scene of the emergency until the medical staff arrives.
Other dispatchers coordinate deliveries, service calls, and related activities for a variety of firms. Truck dispatchers, who work for local and longdistance trucking companies, coordinate the movement of trucks and freight between cities. These dispatchers direct the pickup and delivery activities of drivers, receive customers' requests for the pickup and delivery of freight, consolidate freight orders into truckloads for specific destinations, assign drivers and trucks, and draw up routes and pickup and delivery schedules. Bus dispatchers make sure that local and long-distance buses stay on schedule. They handle all problems that may disrupt service, and they dispatch other buses or arrange for repairs in order to restore service and schedules. Train dispatchers ensure the timely and efficient movement of trains according to orders and schedules. They must be aware of track switch positions, track maintenance areas, and the location of other trains running on the track. Taxicab dispatchers, or starters, dispatch taxis in response to requests for service and keep logs on all road service calls. Tow-truck dispatchers take calls for emergency road service. They relay the nature of the problem to a nearby service station or a tow-truck service and see to it that the road service is completed. Gas and water service dispatchers monitor gas lines and water mains and send out service trucks and crews to take care of emergencies.
Dispatchers sit for long periods, using telephones, computers, and twoway radios. Much of their time is spent at video display terminals, viewing monitors and observing traffic patterns. As a result of working for long stretches with computers and other electronic equipment, dispatchers can experience significant eyestrain and back discomfort. Generally, dispatchers work a 40-hour week; however, rotating shifts and compressed work schedules are common. Alternative work schedules are necessary to accommodate evening, weekend, and holiday work, as well as 24-hour-per-day, 7-day-per-week operations.
Dispatchers held 266,000 jobs in 2004. About 36 percent were police, fire, and ambulance dispatchers, almost all of whom worked for state and local governments—primarily local police and fire departments. About 26 percent of all dispatchers worked in the transportation and warehousing industry, and the rest worked in a wide variety of mainly service-providing industries.
Workers usually develop the necessary skills on the job. This informal training lasts from several days to a few months, depending on the complexity of the job. Public safety dispatchers usually require the most extensive training. While working with an experienced dispatcher, new employees monitor calls and learn how to operate a variety of communications equipment, including telephones, radios, and various wireless devices. As trainees gain confidence, they begin to handle calls themselves. In smaller operations, dispatchers sometimes act as customer service representatives, processing orders. Many public safety dispatchers also participate in structured training programs sponsored by their employer. Increasingly, public safety dispatchers receive training in stress and crisis management as well as family counseling. This training helps them to provide effective services to others, and, at the same time, it helps them manage the stress involved in their work.
Dispatchers who work for private firms, which usually are small, will find few opportunities for advancement. In contrast, public safety dispatchers may become a shift or divisional supervisor or chief of communications, or they may move to higher-paying administrative jobs. Some become police officers or fire fighters.
Population growth and economic expansion are expected to spur employment growth for all types of dispatchers. The growing and aging population will increase demand for emergency services and stimulate employment growth of police, fire, and ambulance dispatchers. Many districts are consolidating their communications centers into a shared areawide facility. Individuals with computer skills and experience will have a greater opportunity for employment as public safety dispatchers. Employment of some dispatchers is more adversely affected by economic downturns than employment of other dispatchers. For example, when economic activity falls, demand for transportation services declines. As a result, taxicab, train, and truck dispatchers may experience layoffs or a shortened workweek, and jobseekers may have some difficulty finding entry-level jobs. Employment of tow-truck dispatchers, by contrast, is seldom affected by general economic conditions because of the emergency nature of their business.
Median annual earnings of dispatchers, except police, fire, and ambulance, in May 2004 were $30,920. The middle 50 percent earned between $23,480 and $41,040. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $18,820, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $52,440.
Median annual earnings of police, fire, and ambulance dispatchers in 2004 were $28,930. The middle 50 percent earned between $23,060 and $35,970. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $18,710, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $44,520. Dispatchers usually receive the same benefits as most other workers.
ALARM OPERATOR: Operates municipal fire alarm system, radio transmitter and receiver, and telephone switchboard. BUS DISPATCHER, INTERSTATE: Dispatches interstate or long-distance buses according to schedule and oversees bus drivers and bus attendants while they are at terminal. CAR CLERK, PULLMAN: Assigns and dispatches sleeping cars to railroad company requesting cars. DISPATCHER: Coordinates movements of haulage trips (trains) in underground mine to or from working force or dump area. DISPATCHER: Establishes and reroutes telegraph and submarine cable circuits to ensure flow of messages. DISPATCHER, MAINTENANCE SERVICE: Receives telephone and written orders from plant departments for maintenance service, such as repair work, machine adjustments, and renewals or installation of other plant property, and relays requests to appropriate maintenance division. DISPATCHER, MOTOR VEHICLE: Assigns motor vehicles and drivers for conveyance of freight or passengers. DISPATCHER, OIL: Directs and coordinates field activities of workers who route and control flow of oil and petroleum products through pipelines from point of origin, such as wells and storage tanks, to delivery points, such as terminals, carriers, refineries, and tank farms. DISPATCHER, OIL WELL SERVICES: Dispatches oil well servicing crews to service assignments and relays communications to crews and other field personnel, using telephone and radio communication equipment. DISPATCHER, RADIO: Receives complaints from public concerning crimes and police emergencies, broadcasts orders to police radio patrol units in vicinity to investigate complaint, and relays instructions or questions from remote units. DISPATCHER, RELAY: Compiles and transmits dispatching information and instructions between central office, pipeline terminals, tank farms, and pumping and compressor stations. DISPATCHER, SECURITY GUARD: Dispatches security personnel to client's site for private, protective-service firm. DISPATCHER, SERVICE OR WORK: Dispatches workers, such as troubleshooters, line repairers, and street-light repairers, for normal maintenance or emergency repairs to electric-power transmission and distribution lines and related equipment. DISPATCHER, SERVICE: Dispatches customer service workers to install, service, and repair electric, gas, or steam-powered systems or appliances or cable television systems. DISPATCHER, SHIP PILOT: Dispatches ship pilot to ships entering or leaving port. DISPATCHER, STREET DEPARTMENT: Receives and records public requests for street maintenance services and relays work orders to maintenance crews, using telephone and two-way radio. DISPATCHER, TRAFFIC OR SYSTEM: Dispatches workers and equipment to prevent or rectify service disruptions of local transit system, using radiophone equipment. DISPATCHER, TUGBOAT: Dispatches tugboats to guide ships entering or leaving port and to tow barges and log rafts. ENGINE DISPATCHER: Assigns engines to locomotive engineers for train runs or for switching operations at railroad yard, industrial plant, quarry, construction project, or similar location. GAS DISPATCHER: Coordinates flow of natural gas throughout distribution system of public utility or pipeline to ensure volume and pressure of gas required for consumers demands. PROTECTIVE-SIGNAL OPERATOR: Reads and records coded signals received in central station of electrical protective signaling system. RECEIVER-DISPATCHER: Receives and records requests for emergency road service from automobile club members and dispatches tow truck or service truck to stranded vehicle. ROUTING CLERK: Determines truck routes involved and issues route slips to drivers to pick up donated clothing, furniture, and general merchandise for vocational rehabilitation organization. SERVICE CLERK: Receives, records, and distributes work orders to service crews upon customers' requests for service on articles or utilities purchased from wholesale or retail establishment or utility company. TAXICAB COORDINATOR: Assigns taxicabs to taxi drivers and maintains record of assignments and trip data. Reviews report of meter readings taken from incoming cabs for accuracy or takes and records taximeter readings. TAXICAB STARTER: Dispatches taxicabs in response to telephone requests for service. TELECOMMUNICATOR: Operates communication equipment to receive incoming calls for assistance and dispatches personnel and equipment to scene of emergency. TRAIN DISPATCHER, ASSISTANT CHIEF: Assigns locomotives, cabooses, and crews to trains to obtain most efficient use of equipment and personnel within assigned railroad territory. WATER-SERVICE DISPATCHER: Dispatches service crews to repair water mains. WORK-ORDER-SORTING CLERK: Sorts and routes work orders for construction of gas or electric mains, service connections, or meter installations.


Hotel Rio Athens is housed in a renovated neoclassical building near the Ancient Agora. All 48 air-conditioned rooms include minibar, satellite TV and private bathroom with hairdryer. The Bar-Restaurant on the ground floor provides the ideal place to relax while enjoying refreshments, food and pleasant music. It serves many kinds of drinks and Greek specialties until well after midnight. A glass of ouzo is offered to all guests upon arrival.
This hotel is next to Metaxourghio Metro Station and the international railway station. The property is conveniently located close to major touristic attractions as the National Archaeological Museum lies within walking distance, while the Acropolis Rock is 1.5 km away. The vibrant Monastiraki Flea Market is 1 km away. The area of Psyri is located 1 km away, while Kerameikos is at a distance of 1.2 km away.
Air-conditioned room with bath or shower, satellite TV, mini bar, hairdryer and direct dial phone.
Air-conditioned room with bath or shower, satellite TV, mini bar, hairdryer and direct dial phone. This room has 1 double bed or 2 single beds.
Air-conditioned room with bath or shower, satellite TV, mini bar, hairdryer and direct dial phone. This room has 1 double bed and 1 single bed or 3 single beds.
Air conditioned room with bath or shower, satellite TV, mini bar, hairdryer and direct dial phone. This room has 2 double beds or 1 double and 2 single beds.
This family room has a patio, minibar and air conditioning. This room has 2 double beds and 1 single bed or 1 double bed and 3 single beds.
Affordable price and all you find in a few minutes on foot. Clean room, great service.
I had a nice stay. Great hotel, close to a metro station. Places like Monastiraki, the Acropolis and museums are really close! Very good!
Definitely recommended if you need something central. Clean hotel, helpful and friendly staff, especially the reception!
The Acropolis Museum is located southeast of the Acropolis, in the historic Makriyannis. It is 300 meters from the Acropolis and approximately 2 km from the central Syntagma Square. The Museum entrance is located at the beginning of the pedestrian street Dionysius Areopagite, the central axis of the unified network of archaeological sites of the city. The Acropolis Metro Station is located on the east side of the Museum site. -By Bus: Lines 24, 40, 57, 103, 106, 108, 111, 126, 134, 135, 136, 137, 155, 206, 208, 227, 230, 237, 790, 856, A2, A3, A4, B2, B3 , B4, E2, E22 (stop Disembarkation: Makrigianni). - By trolley: Lines 1, 5, 15 (Stop Disembarkation: Makrigianni).- By metro: - By metro: Line 2 (St. Anthony-St. Dimitrios), disembark Citadel. - By Car:The museum encourages visitors to use some of the numerous transportation and avoid using car to the historic center of the city. The Museum has no public parking. There is limited parking on the following streets nearby: Chatzichristou, Dimitrakopoulou Veikou, Mitseon, Parthenon Caryatids. Private garages (parking) are on the streets Robertou Gali and Faliro.
Hotel Rio Athens is located in the center of Athens, on the quiet pedestrian street of the Karaiskaki square, next the subway station METAXOURGHIO and quite near the international railway station. It is 1 Km away from the Syntagma sq, a 35 minutes drive from the Athens international airport and 15 minutes from the port of PIREAUS by subway.
By Bus: Lines 24, 40, 57, 103, 106, 108, 111, 126, 134, 135, 136, 137, 155, 206, 208, 227, 230, 237, 790, 856, A2, A3, A4, B2, B3 , B4, E2, E22 (stop Disembarkation: Makrigianni). - By trolley: Lines 1, 5, 15 (Stop Disembarkation: Makrigianni). - By metro: - By metro: Line 2 (St. Anthony-St. Dimitrios), disembark Citadel. - By Car:The museum encourages visitors to use some of the numerous transportation and avoid using car to the historic center of the city. The Museum has no public parking. There is limited parking on the following streets nearby: Chatzichristou, Dimitrakopoulou Veikou, Mitseon, Parthenon Caryatids. Private garages (parking) are on the streets Robertou Gali and Faliro.


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News | Thrombectomy Devices | September 25, 2020
Philips Introduces QuickClear Mechanical Thrombectomy System for Blood Clot Removal
Simple thrombectomy solution provides physicians with an all-in-one, single-use aspiration catheter and pump system
Philips introduced the QuickClear Mechanical Thrombectomy System. It is a simple thrombectomy solution provides physicians with an all-in-one, single-use aspiration catheter and pump system.
September 25, 2020 — Philips Healthcare launched its QuickClear mechanical thrombectomy system. The compact, single-use system provides an all-in-one aspiration pump and catheter for the removal of blood clots from the vessels of the peripheral arterial and venous systems. The system's innovative all-in-one design is simple to use while eliminating the need for capital equipment or costly accessories, with easy setup supporting faster procedures times. The Philips QuickClear Mechanical Thrombectomy System has received U.S. FDA 510(k) clearance and is available for sale in the U.S.
"QuickClear is a simple and easy to use mechanical thrombectomy system," said Bryan Fisher, M.D., chief of vascular surgery, Tristar Centennial Medical Center, Nashville, U.S. "The system is significantly smaller than other systems without compromising aspiration power. The convenience of the device really shines through with its single use and lack of capital equipment. I am excited about the potential of this device and the impact it will have on my practice and the patients I treat."
QuickClear simplifies the entire thrombectomy procedure workflow. The small footprint of the sterile device allows it to be placed easily and conveniently on the table next to the patient. With the touch of a button, the system is up and running at maximum aspiration power within seconds. The consistency of the aspiration power during the procedure provides physicians more control and supports faster procedure times. The system's range of catheters includes a large 10 French aspiration catheter, providing 59% more aspiration volume than 8F aspiration catheters.
Philips' peripheral vascular portfolio already includes advanced interventional imaging systems for precision guidance; intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) catheters to assess the location of the disease and lesion morphology and guide and confirm the treatment; peripheral atherectomy devices to remove blockages; and peripheral therapy devices, such as Philips' Stellarex drug-coated balloon, to treat lesions. Philips recently further extended this portfolio with the acquisition of Intact Vascular, maker of the Tack Endovascular System, a first-of-its-kind, minimal-metal, dissection repair device that provides precision treatment of peripheral arterial dissections following balloon angioplasty in above-the-knee (ATK) and below-the-knee (BTK) therapeutic interventions.
The Philips QuickClear Mechanical Thrombectomy System is U.S. FDA 510(k) cleared and available for sale in the U.S., with future expansion of availability to other geographies planned.
Find more news on thrombectomy systems


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Squid Game Season 2 is not coming to Netflix in August
byAnkita Paul
Read on to find out the latest updates on Squid Game Season 2.
The South Korean series swept the world after its fall premiere. The program won numerous honors, broke Netflix streaming records, and propelled its cast to international fame. It took 12 years to bring the first season of Squid Game to life last year, writer and director Hwang Dong-hyuk writes in a message to the show's viewers. But it took Squid Game 12 days to surpass all other Netflix programs in popularity.
Hence, it wasn't a shock when the show was confirmed to be renewed for a second season in June 2022.
Is Squid Game Season 2 coming to Netflix in August?
As of the latest updates, Squid Game Season 2 won't be available on Netflix in August 2022. We're still waiting for the dystopian global phenomenon to return. So when might the second season be available on Netflix? Read below for the most recent updates.
Squid Game Season 2 Release Date
As previously noted, on June 12, Netflix made the announcement that the second season of Squid Game had received the green signal. But, no official release date has been revealed yet.
However, Hwang stated in an interview with Vanity Fair in May that the next season might debut by the end of 2023 or 2024. This makes sense, given that the first season's filming and post-production took two years to finish.
But don't stress over that! Still early in the process. Even while we highly doubt that we'll have to wait another 12 years for Squid Game season 2, there will still be a little wait.
What Happened in Squid Game Season 1?
The series revolves around Seong Gi-hun, a divorced and indebted driver. He is invited to participate in a number of kid-friendly games with the chance to win a sizable cash award. When he accepts the deal, he is sent to an unidentified place where he meets 455 other players who are all in dire financial straits.
The players are required to wear green tracksuits, while masked guards in red jumpsuits constantly keep an eye on them. The Front Man, who is dressed in a black mask and costume, is in charge of controlling the games. The participants quickly learn that losing the games results in their death, with each demise raising the total number of possible grand prizes to 45.6 billion by 100 million. To try to withstand the physical and psychological twists of the games, Gi-hun teams up with other participants, including his childhood buddy Cho Sang-woo.
After a bunch of twists and turns, and satisfying and sad deaths, in the ninth episode, three players – Seong Gi-hun (player 456), Cho Sang-woo (player 218) and Kang Sae-byeok (player 067) are the finalists.
The night before their final game, the group is treated to a sumptuous steak meal. It is revealed that Sae-byeok's is injured from the previous game and is severely hurt and bleeding. The three are also left with a knife after their meal to ensure that at least one player is killed by the other two.
Gi-hun attempts to murder Sang-woo while he is sleeping since he is aware that Sang-woo will go to any length to win, but Sae-byeok tells him that he isn't a killer. Gi-hun offers that they work together to defeat Sang-woo, but she interprets his assurance that whoever prevails will take care of the other person's family as a condition of their alliance.
Gi-hun notices Sae-byeok's condition is deteriorating and rushes to call for help, while Sang-woo takes the chance and kills her.
Gi-hun travels to the final arena to compete against Sang-woo in the titular Squid Game while grieving Sae-byeok's passing. They engage in a vicious struggle, and just when Gi-hun is about to prevail, he refuses to take the necessary action to seal the victory. In order to cancel the game in accordance with the last provision, he asks Sang-woo to join him in the call. Sang-woo, however, stabs himself in the neck and begs Gi-hun to look after his mother.
What will happen in Squid Game Season 2?
At the end of season 1, we see that Gi-hun finds out that the game organizers are again on the hunt for the participants for the next game. He tries to approach the man who recruited him but fails to do so, and ends up calling the organizers to participate in the game, again.
The second season is expected to take up from there.
Executive producer Kim Ji-yeon told Netflix Tudum in an interview, "We are working on the script right now and making the form of the story." "But there's definitely a lot of pressure on how to make [Season 2] even better. I know that a lot of the different fans and audiences have enjoyed the series very much, but really we're focusing on how to make it even more joyful to the global audience," she added.
Stay tuned for more updates on Squid Game Season 2.
Ankita Paul
Ankita Paul loves to experiment with different genres. Her area of interest lies in a wide range of topics starting from social issues, hardcore news to entertainment news.


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Wanted Adventurers – The First of Many Side-Quests
Posted on October 16, 2020 by fictionalpenguin under Wanted Adventurers
Grimsby sat alone at a table that partially blocked the stairs. This alone wasn't of particular interest, but the tables nearest to Grimsby's table were also empty. Spotless, as if they had not been used in some time.
Aranza, Temperance, and Monty had gone best out of five on several games of chance to see who would be the one who had to approach Grimsby to inquire about a room. During that time, a handful of the tavern's other patrons had shot confused and somewhat judgemental looks their way. A few realized what they were doing, and one or two gave a murmured acknowledgement of the task ahead.
One quietly commented on having affairs in order before approaching Grimsby.
Grimsby sat on his barstool, a gnome of sub-average height, his gaze fixed on something not quite in the physical space of the tavern. When he blinked, it was one eye at a time.
"That's a gnome that's been through some dark shit," Aranza said as she tried to avoid eye-contact.
"We need a room," Temperance said. "This is hardly the time for such childish foolishness."
Monty held up a finger, eyes narrowed. "I certainly don't see you, oh brave Paladin, tripping over your overly shiny armor to address the gnome."
Temperance recoiled. "I, well…" she replied. "I was just about to do exactly that." She turned, but hesitated.
Aranza sighed as she walked around Temperance. Grimsby's focus remained on whatever he'd been staring at since they'd arrived, and did not shift until Aranza cleared her throat.
Grimsby let out a piercing, horrible shriek, eyes wide.
Aranza leaped back, daggers ready to be thrown at a second's notice.
Grimsby blinked–actually blinked–and then his gaze shifted upwards to Aranza. A lazy, slow smiled crept across his face.
"Greetings, weary traveler," Grimsby rumbled in a deep baritone. "The red crow caws at midnight, and the mist covers only that which we desire to not see."
Aranza took a step back. "Sure, they do those things," she replied. "Sorry to bother you there, you were obviously doing something important."
Grimsby cocked his head, the tavern's torchlight reflecting brightly off of his bald head.
"If it's not too much trouble, the two idiots I'm traveling with and I need a room," Aranza blurted out. "Gryphonshit, did I say that out loud?"
"And what perils paved your path to this fine purveyor of ales and place of rest?" Grimsby asked.
"Guild business," Aranza answered automatically. "Not wanting to die. The two are related."
"Friends of the Guild?"
Aranza shook her head. "We tried to rob them and we made a deal so we didn't dance at the gallows," she replied. "Not the Paladin. She's stuck being our holy nanny. Damn you."
Grimsby nodded. "Room's on me tonight, but your drinks are up to Aloysius."
"Stop giving out my name like it's your business to share!" the bartender, Aloysius, shouted across the tavern. "Give them a room, but only one room. Giving away business like you own the damn place." Aloysius continued the conversation at a low grumble under his breath, his attention returned to the other patrons.
Grimsby winked. "I do own the place." He reached into his vest pockets, rifling around for an improbably long time. He produced a small leather pouch, which he replaced into the pocket, a sliver of metal that transformed into a startlingly sharp dagger before, and then finally a plain brass key.
"Up the stairs, second door on the left," Grimsby said. "You do good things, you get to stay. You cause trouble, I charge you double. No need to relay your tales. The tide of your worth shall be determined by the cosmic push and pull of good and evil that you release into the world."
"Sure thing," Aranza said, taking the key. She walked back to Monty and Temperance, who had turned away.
"You deserve a drink," Monty said. "You've been through a lot."
Temperance shook her head. "I prefer to not indulge in such things," she replied. "I need my wits about me so as to ensure neither of you fall into your wicked old ways."
Aranza laughed, clapping a hand on Temperance's shoulder. "Sounds like she's afraid of a challenge," she said. "Hey, Al. Three of your strongest ales and three shots of Dragonfyre, if you'd be so kind."
Aloysius clenched his jaw, but went about retrieving the requested drinks. He placed them on the bar, then held a hand out for payment.
"I'll cover first round," Monty said.
Aloysius raised a hand in protest. "The half-orc with a whole lot of humor can pay," he said. "Not even my friends call me Al."
Aranza shrugged, producing six gold. "Struck a nerve?" she asked, plunking the gold down in Aloysius' hand. He eyed it suspiciously for a moment before he dropped it somewhere beneath the bar and out of sight.
"Breakfast is between when I get up and when I don't feel like cooking for you ungrateful heathens anymore," Aloysius shouted over the crowd. "I'm closing up. If you're staying, don't wreck the joint. If you're not? You don't gotta go home, but get the hell out." He grabbed a bottle of translucent green liquid as he walked toward the door at the end of the bar, popped the cork and took a swig, then shut the door behind him.
A number of the patrons shuffled out with only a handful moving cautiously past and up the stairs.
"All right, the rules are simple," Aranza said.
"I'm familiar with the rules," Temperance interrupted.
Monty raised his eyebrows.
"Go!" Aranza shouted. She threw the Dragonfyre back, then started to drink the ale. it was a dense, dark beer, and she couldn't quite place it. It was probably one of those small batch ones, she figured, with a name that included Bogwater. She chanced a sideward glance and raised her eyebrows.
Monty was taking his time, as he did. His fair cheeks were already several shades redder than usual, and his eyes glassy.
Temperance was well over halfway into her ale with no sign of slowing. Aranza doubled down on her efforts.
The two slammed their mugs down at the same time.
"By the Heavens, it looks like you have some competition, 'Ranz," Monty slurred, dribbling ale down his chin. "Whoops."
An older woman stepped forward, clearly unaware of the half-dwarf and half-orc sizing each other up, and slapped a rolled scroll down onto the bar. She shuffled out of the tavern without saying anything.
Temperance broke the scowl-off first.
"Damnation," she muttered, grabbing up the scroll.
"What's the problem?" Aranza said, her words and the sudden impact of the Dragonfyre enough to make her sway gently as she spoke. "Feeling a little wooo?" She waved her hands by her head for effect.
Temperance raised an eyebrow. "What? No, I wish," she replied. "We've just been served."
Monty leaned forward, his eyes level with Temperance's forehead. "We what now?"
Temperance held out the scroll, pointing at the wax seal holding it shut. It was the Guild's emblem. Beneath it, through the rolled parchment, the words "Wanted: Alive or Dead" were visible.
Aranza exhaled deeply, frowning. "The joy's left me like the wind gone from a lost ship's sails," she said. "Let's get some sleep. Looks like we've got our first side-quest to complete. Already."
This entry was tagged amwriting, comedy, dark fantasy, fantasy, Fantasy Fridays, humor, serial fantasy, writing. Bookmark the permalink.


Joe Chilton GEDCOM, 7 November 1994.
[S73] Rawlings Funeral Home, Book 2, 2 Feb 1963.
[S75] Atchley Funeral Home Records, Volume II, 1955-1973, Larry D. Fox, (Smoky Mountain Historical Society), 6 Nov 1968.
[S4] Knoxville News-Sentinel (Tennessee), 3 Aug 2000.
[S1] U. S. Social Security Death Index, 266-38-1891.
[S34] In the Shadow of the Smokies, Smoky Mountain Historical Society, (1993), 350.