#Discovery Prime Tour

[discoveryprimetours]

Jaisalmer Tourism: Exploring the Golden City with Discovery Prime Tours

Introduction

Jaisalmer, known as the "Golden City," is a captivating destination in the heart of Rajasthan, India. With its breathtaking sand dunes, magnificent forts, and rich cultural heritage, Jaisalmer offers a unique travel experience that leaves a lasting impression on visitors. To ensure a seamless and unforgettable trip, it's essential to choose the best tour and travel agency in India. In this article, we will delve into the wonders of Jaisalmer tourism, highlight the importance of reliable travel agents, and introduce Discovery Prime Tours as the leading name in the industry.

Jaisalmer: A Glimpse into the Golden City

Situated in the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer boasts a mesmerizing landscape that exudes an otherworldly charm. The city is renowned for its majestic Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort. Built in the 12th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a living testament to the rich history and architectural brilliance of the Rajput era. Within the fort walls, visitors can explore narrow lanes, vibrant markets, and stunning havelis (traditional mansions) adorned with intricate carvings.

Another must-visit attraction in Jaisalmer is the Sam Sand Dunes, located a short distance from the city. Here, one can witness the ethereal beauty of the desert, embark on thrilling camel safaris, and immerse themselves in the captivating folk music and dance performances under the starlit sky.

Importance of Travel Agents in Jaisalmer Tourism

When planning a trip to Jaisalmer, it is crucial to rely on the expertise and assistance of a reputable travel agency. Travel agents possess in-depth knowledge of the destination, ensuring that travelers make the most of their time and enjoy a hassle-free experience. From arranging accommodations and transportation to organizing sightseeing tours and cultural experiences, travel agents play a pivotal role in curating a personalized itinerary tailored to individual preferences.

Moreover, travel agents have established relationships with local service providers, enabling them to secure the best deals on accommodations, transportation, and activities. This ensures that travelers receive optimal value for their investment, making their Jaisalmer adventure both memorable and affordable.

Your Gateway to Unforgettable Jaisalmer Experiences

When it comes to selecting the best tour and travel agency in India, Discovery Prime Tours stands out as a leading player in the industry. With a commitment to excellence, personalized service, and attention to detail, It has garnered a stellar reputation among travelers seeking extraordinary experiences in Jaisalmer.

It offers a wide range of meticulously crafted itineraries, catering to diverse interests and preferences. Whether you seek a cultural immersion, an adrenaline-fueled adventure, or a tranquil retreat in the desert, It can curate the perfect itinerary to fulfill your desires.

Their team of experienced professionals possesses extensive knowledge about Jaisalmer and Rajasthan, ensuring that every aspect of your trip is well-planned and executed flawlessly. From accommodation in luxurious hotels to guided tours by expert local guides, every detail is taken care of to create a seamless and unforgettable travel experience.

Best Time to Travel to Jaisalmer

To make the most of your Jaisalmer trip, it is crucial to choose the right time to visit. Jaisalmer experiences extreme climatic conditions, with scorching summers and chilly winters. The best time to travel to Jaisalmer is during the winter season, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploration. During this time, the days are sunny, and the evenings are cool, allowing travelers to enjoy all that Jaisalmer has to offer comfortably.

During the winter season, Jaisalmer hosts several vibrant festivals that add a touch of cultural extravaganza to your trip. The Desert Festival, held in January or February, showcases the rich heritage of Rajasthan through folk dances, camel races, music performances, and traditional handicraft displays. This is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and witness the vibrant traditions of the region.

On the other hand, summers in Jaisalmer can be scorching, with temperatures soaring above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). It is advisable to avoid visiting Jaisalmer during the summer months, as the heat can make outdoor activities uncomfortable and limit your exploration options.

Monsoons, which occur from July to September, bring some relief from the heat but also bring occasional heavy rainfall. While the desert landscape transforms into a lush green oasis during this time, it's worth noting that certain activities like camel safaris may not be available due to the weather conditions. However, if you prefer a quieter and more budget-friendly trip, visiting Jaisalmer during the monsoon season could be an option worth considering.

Conclusion

Jaisalmer, the Golden City of Rajasthan, beckons travelers with its mesmerizing forts, sand dunes, and rich cultural heritage. To ensure a seamless and memorable trip to Jaisalmer, it is essential to choose a reliable and experienced tour and travel agency. Discovery Prime Tours, a prominent name in the industry, specializes in curating exceptional itineraries that cater to diverse interests and preferences. With their expertise and attention to detail, guarantees an unforgettable experience in Jaisalmer.

Remember to plan your visit during the winter season, from October to March, to enjoy pleasant weather and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant festivals. Whether you wish to explore the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, indulge in camel safaris across the Sam Sand Dunes, or immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region, Jaisalmer offers a myriad of experiences that will leave you in awe.

So, pack your bags, get ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime, and let Discovery Prime Tours be your trusted companion in discovering the magic of Jaisalmer, the Golden City of Rajasthan.

[giuliettagaltieri]

Cry of Outrage

Pairing: President!Coriolanus Snow x First Lady!Reader

Chapter Synopsis: The Saviour

Warning: elitism, vulnerability, violence, injury, blood

Word Count: 2748

5 of 6

Y/N Swansworth-Snow.

The first thing that Coriolanus did when he became President was to give you his last name.  You, his ally, his accomplice, and now, his First Lady.

The entirety of Panem celebrated with you.  No, not just the Capitol.  All the other Districts fell in love with the two of you.  Having been blinded by your tour that was so successful, it ruined any doubts they had for the new President.

And to make it even better, the ruse between you and Coriolanus gave way for true affections to blossom.

But having the love of the said President does not mean that your marriage will be anything similar to a typical couple.  You are the leaders of Panem after all.

Most of your day is taken up by meeting other politicians and studying bills to further strengthen the Capitol and subdue thoughts of rebellions from the Districts.

Your evenings are also spent attending the invitations of your supporters.

“Heavens!  The party is in five hours and I have absolutely nothing to wear.”  You groan in your seat as Coriolanus chuckles as he taps at the steering wheel.

This was one thing that he requested for the both of you.  No chauffeurs.  Not that your security is at risk when you are sandwiched between two cars loaded with the presidential guards.

The two of you had been spending your luncheon with the Plinths.  Had it not been for your assistants reminding you of a party this evening, you would have forgotten.

“You should wear that gold dress I bought you last month.”  He hums.

“The one with actual gold in it?”  You frown.  “We are only meeting the District 1 representatives, is it necessary to wear such a pretty gown?”

You stop at the red traffic light and Coriolanus turns to you, his knuckle brushing your cheek.  “You’re not wearing it for them, my love.”  His voice is calm but there was something about him that made you feel like he was scolding you.  Of course, you try your best to keep a straight face but the way you fiddled with your seatbelt did not go unnoticed by him.  “You will be wearing it for me.  Always for me.  Understand?”

You nod at him.

“Words.”

“Yes, Corio.  I understand.”

Ever since you got married, you have somewhat changed.  You are still the same calculating Y/N Swansworth, but you are more docile, easily flustered, almost shy.

“Mmh, there’s a good girl.”

His thumb caresses your cheek before focusing back on the road.

Coriolanus Snow takes pleasure in his discovery of this attitude from you.  How you are the commanding First Lady in the public, and a sweet little wife to him when he has you all to himself.  You did not grow out of that crush you had for him, it seems.  You got better at hiding it while he was away, but in the end, you were still his, body and soul.

As you get ready in your vanity that night, your eyes scan the files of the guests that will be attending the party as you add the pigeon blood ruby earrings in your ears.

“Darling, my tie, have you seen it?”  Coriolanus calls as he comes out of your shared closet.  His dark red suit compliments your golden gown. 

“In here.”  You reply as you hurriedly put on the other pair of earrings.

You walk over to him to fix his golden tie for him.

He checks his appearance and his hand snakes to the small of your back.  “You look ravishing.”  He pecks your exposed shoulder.  He knows better than to ruin your lipstick.  He will never hear the end of it.

“You are looking pretty sharp, yourself.”  You say as you look at him proudly.  This fine gentleman, one ever so sought after, once the prime bachelor of Panem, is your husband.

Not everybody understands that.

And it infuriates you to no end.  But jealousy can come later, in the present, you must focus on your task at hand.

As you enter the party together, you both agree on a strategy, to part ways and conquer them one by one.

“My brother is likely the one who will follow my father’s footsteps.”  Says the official from District 1.  His suit is a fine one, the best quality.  But the clothing’s value can easily be overlooked by how the wearer parades in it.  “He was always the favorite.”

You look at him in well-practiced sympathy.  “I am terribly sorry.  Here, have a glass of water.”  You snatch one from the passing server to hand it to him.  He has had enough alcohol for tonight.

He gulps it quickly and he nastily wipes his mouth with the sleeve of his beige suit, ruining it with a wet stain, you try to conceal your disgust.

“Phah!”  He spits.  “As if my brother is any good.  He is always at his shooting range with his buddies.  Always buying guns and losing them!”  The man continues to ramble and you sip quietly from your flute.  “I am really grateful that you are keeping me company tonight, Madame First Lady.”  He suddenly grabs at your wrist, his thumb caressing your skin.  Apparently, not grateful enough to observe boundaries.

You smile kindly as you place your other hand atop his.  “No worries, it is my pleasure to be of some service to the people of Panem.”  You gently remove his hand from yours.

He groans, throwing his head back.  “You are a goddess, Madame First Lady.”

“And you are drunk, Mister Sterling.”  You comment as you sip on your champagne once more, eyes scanning the party for whom you shall extract information next.  But your eyes met his.

Coriolanus had his eyes on you the entire time.  He was in a small group of men, all who were talking animatedly.  Coriolanus throws in his inputs in the conversation but his eyes never stray away from you.  He does not look too pleased.

You struggle to look away from him, and you discreetly attempt to swallow the lump in your throat.

“My apologies, you will have to excuse me.”  You smile at Sterling and before he can respond, you are already on your feet, gliding smoothly away in utmost elegance, definitely not scurrying.

You make it to the powder room, nobody suspects you of running away when you look as if you own the place.  But Coriolanus knows better.  He also excuses himself from the other men and follows quickly after you.

He smiles at the people he passes but he is determined to get to where you would be right now.

And there you were, twirling in front of the tall mirror of the bathroom.  It appears like the First Lady of Panem is checking herself out.  Coriolanus leans by the door to enjoy the show, a sly little smirk on his lips.

You slide down your hands on your waist and you turn to observe the curve of your behind and nod.  You then get closer to see your make up in a closer angle, watching for anything that is not in place.

“I was going to wait for you to finish but I cannot keep myself away for much longer.”  His smooth voice echoes around the empty powder room.

The look of surprise on your face brought strange satisfaction to him.

Coriolanus stands behind you and looks at you in the mirror.  His eyes shamelessly roam over your body, and by God! The dress really does suit you.

“You should let me choose your dresses more often.”  He spoke silently and you chuckled at that.

“Do you find me pretty, wearing your gifts, Mister President?”  You tease as you fix your hair.

Nodding, Coriolanus hooks an arm around your midriff to pull you flush against him.  “Prettiest.”  He groans against your nape, his hot breath sending you to a fit of giggles.  “And you’re not leaving my side for the rest of the night, you understand?”

You lean against his sturdy chest and nod like the obedient girl that you are.  “I have a lot of bad news for you, Corio.”

His brows pinched but he didn't let it disturb him from tasting your skin.  Leaving a hot wet trail in his wake.

“Rebels?”  He asks breathily.

Your breath hitches when he gently nips on your ear.  “Might be.  I’m suspecting smuggling of firearms.  I will have my men investigate it first thing tomorrow.”

He hums in approval.  “What would I do without you, wife?”

Your ego is stroked with his words and you can’t help the smile on your lips.  “You would be helpless without me.”

It is a dangerous thing to say to a man like Coriolanus Snow.  Provoking him and threatening his status with words will not end well.  Unless it is you.

“I would crumble, wife.”  He groans to your skin and pulls you closer.  “I would be reduced to nothing.”

When Coriolanus speaks like this, he just manages to sink himself deeper into your heart.

“Good.”  You smile.  “Because I desire you just as fiercely.”  You place a hand on his bicep and you rest your head on his shoulder to press a kiss on his neck.  “You have a speech to make.” 

Coriolanus sighs.  “Just a bit longer.”

You indulge him, tracing patterns on his cheek as he inhales your scent.

Had it not been for a knock on the door, Coriolanus would have held you there forever.

He takes your hand and guides you on stage with him, his darling wife.

The music fades to a gentle melody and the crowd hushes to listen to the speech the President is about to make.

“Our gathering today is not just an event, it is a celebration of collaboration, shared goals, and the strength that comes from unity.”  Coriolanus starts and you position yourself behind him with the kindest smile you can muster.  “I am deeply honored to stand before a group of individuals who bring diverse perspectives, talents, and experiences.” 

A man shakes his head in the corner and you watch him closely.  He seems agitated, his movement jerking as he scratches at his neck, making the skin raw.  He does not look familiar.  He is not in the files you had.

“Your presence here is a testament to the power of coming together, the power of dialogue, and the power of collective effort.”  You step closer to Coriolanus when the man leaves his chair.  The peacekeepers slowly march closer to the man who glares hard at your husband.  “In this room, we have a wealth of knowledge, creativity, and passion that, when harnessed, can propel us to achieve great things.”  A glint from the man’s coat has you tugging Coriolnus behind you by his suit.

A resounding bang fills the air and your body freezes.

It’s wet, you feel the wetness seep your dress and you look down to see a spreading stain of crimson in your side.

Oh…the bullet did not hit Coriolanus.  That’s good.

Screaming rings in the air and it is getting more and more difficult for you to stand.  You feel Coriolanus’ warm hands around you, but your eyes return to the shooter.  Has he been apprehended?  Is your husband still in danger?

“Corio…”  You whimper.  “It’s not safe for you.”

He grits his teeth as he pulls at his tie to wrap it in his fist to press into your wound.  The pressure had you whimpering, clawing unto his sleeve.

“I’m sorry.”  He whispered against your temple.  “You’re gonna be alright.”

You try to laugh but it comes out as a wheeze.  “Of course, I would.”

You are in the arms of the most powerful man in Panem.  No place else is safer.

The noise slowly gets muffled, something akin to your head descending underwater.  The lights blur and the colors mix together.  You blink multiple times just so your husband would come to focus, but your eyelids get heavier and heavier.

He was the last thing you saw before your eyes closed.

“Your daughter seems to have taken a fancy to my son.”

A loud boisterous laughter echoes.  “Nothing but a harmless fascination.”

“The two of them would make a good couple, don’t you agree?”

“That is if they don’t destroy each other first.”

Coriolanus wakes from his slumber in cold sweat.  He runs a hand on his platinum hair, feeling its dampness.  His chest heaves, breathing labored.

What a nightmare to have at a time like this.  His pale eyes search the darkness and he spots you in your marital bed.  He leaves the chaise lounge to walk over to you.  You have been asleep for a day now, recovering after the bullet misses anything fatal.  The events last night shocked him to his core.  He had never been more afraid.  Not even when he saw the dead being hacked to pieces in the dark days.  Or when the arena was bombed when he first mentored, and definitely not when Lucy Gray set off a snake to him.

When he saw you bleed.  It unraveled all there was in him.  His gut twisting, his mind in shambles.  He was angry and afraid.  And the self-loathing that came afterwards was almost unbearable.  That bullet was for him to take, not you.

Coriolanus watches the steady rise and fall of your chest.  It brings him peace to see you still breathing.  Gently, he lies next to you but he was afraid he’d hurt you so he scoots lower until he faces your bandaged abdomen.  He lies curled by your side and he reaches for your hand.

It’s warm, you are with him.  His lips press on your pulse, you are with him.

A lone tear slides to his temple and the sheets greedily soak it in.  It was one of many that he shed for you while you were asleep.

A deep shuddering breath has him sitting up.  Coriolanus observes your face closely. 

“Corio?”

“I’m here, my love.”  He rushes to you and he smiles painfully when you open your eyes.

“Are you hurt?”  You ask worriedly and he almost laughs had his heart not been teared open.

He shakes his head.  “No, you saved me.”  He presses a kiss to your temple.  “You took a bullet for me.”

You grimace.  “How’d he get that gun inside, anyway?”

Coriolanus pursed his lips.  “It was planted in the area prior to the event.”

“Did you find out who he is?”

He nods at you and he pulls you closer.  “From a fallen house here in the Capitol and a servant to the Cranes.  He has more morphine than blood in his veins.  He is being detained now, he will be executed in two days.”

You nod at him.  It all falls into place now.  

Hesitantly, you ask.  “Him and Arachne?”

Coriolanus sighs.  “Or just him.”  Arachne was a true narcissist, she would have never associated with a nobody in such ways.

It is surprising how even after all these years, the ghost of the past can still haunt you.  The visit from the District 1 officials must have triggered such an act.

Love really is the sweetest poison.

“No matter.”  Coriolanus dismisses the topic.  “I refuse to spend another second thinking about a man who dared to hurt my wife.”

You smile as you close your eyes trying to get comfortable in his arms.

“I guess you owe me your life now.  I would expect more pampering as payment.”  You hum and he scoffs.

You ignore the fact that this makes you even after he saved you in District 4.  You will use every opportunity to exploit your dear husband.

“That is what you are concerned with?  You were just shot, wife.”  He spoke unimpressed but you squeezed his hand.

“I’ll get a nasty scar but I’ll live.  His aim was really bad.”

“I most definitely agree.”  Coriolanus nods a small grin in his lips.  “That worked in our favor though.”

It frightened Coriolanus.  The limit to your self sacrifice for him seems to be nonexistent.  He humbles himself and prays to the gods that this will not cause your end. 

You did not question when he pulls you closer.  His behavior is desperate as he burns the feel of your body against him in his head.

You spend the rest of the night talking to him until your eyes turn heavy, your breath syncing together peacefully.

Hunt for Glory

[pico-digital-studios]

Into, Across and Beyond! Story Scripting Points

Due to issues with Tumblr's link system, all these are accessible via this post for your convenience.

One More Chance Where It All Began

Action Prologue

One More Hero Let's do this... one last time? (also applies to MtOU) | School Trip | Dark Discoveries | Another Sonic? | Home or Hero? | Expanded Shatterverse | Bar Stop-Off | Raiding the Lab | The Sonic-cave | Post-Rescue | MY Duty | Harsh Reality | The Final Battle | Retained Memories

More than One Universe Operation Containment | Fate's Call | A Hero's Guilt | The Help We Need | A Life Worth Living For | My Last Trauma | Epilogue | Ending | Post-Credits | A Peculiar Interest (takes place well before MtOU) | A Special Theory (after MtOU)

Across All Worlds / Errorverse Rewrite Moments A Prime Run-In | Canon Aversion Attempts | Dangerous Domain (Nitro.DLL's Universe)

Old Memories Farewell from Home (OMT!Tails)

Quill Society Side-Stories (all taking place within/before MMH) A Leader's Doubt | The Quill Society's Acceptance | Unlikely Rivalry | Love Advice | Soffio di Vita | Lingering Doubts | Fall of an NU

Many More Heroes Crimtake's Backstory | An Adventurous Date | Quill Society HQ Tour | LM!Sonic's Cruel Nature | To Be or NOT to Be...? | The Big Chase | Peaceful Resolve | Knocked Off-Course (Epilogue) | MMH/CD Intermission

Cosmic Discoveries Prime Encounter | Hues of Trouble | Grand Reunion

Tails of Trials Outmatched in his Prime | Blasting Forward (SRB2) | The Ring Racers | The TRUE Original Awaits (Sonic.EXE) | End of the Trail (Green Mountain) | EggOmega's Downfall | Epilogue

Quill Society Logs First Findings (Logs 5 & 9) | Second Findings (Logs 6 & 7) | Third Findings (Logs 10 & 11)

Funkinverse Crossover Side-Stories

Main Story (post-MtOU) Clashing Beliefs | Locking In | Burning Too Much Daylight | Ending

Post-Story X for Danger (post-MMH)

[buried-stars]

28 for asougi/ryuu

28) when i am dead

The sailors let Ryuunosuke stay in the first class cabin. He'll be treated as an official passenger, and even receive the allotted meals.

He wishes it wasn't so.

In a heartbeat, he'd trade this newfound freedom to have Asougi back; it isn't even a question. Though he'd complained about being shut up in the wardrobe all the time, it was better than being completely alone in the cabin.

During the day, Susato comes to his room and they pour over the law textbooks Asougi left behind. She quizzes him mercilessly, refusing to offer any leniency. If he's going to take Asougi's place on the study tour and fulfill his mission, then he has to be perfect. He understands.

While she's around, he can keep his mind primed on the material. But as soon as she leaves for the night, and the door closes behind her, Ryuunosuke's left in the space where his best friend died.

(If he hadn't eaten the chicken. If he'd convinced Asougi to have some instead.)

The sailors cleaned up the cabin after the fact. The ink and scuffs were all removed, and it almost looks normal. But he can still see the lines in the floor, the spot Asougi was laying in during his final moments.

He tries to sleep in the bed sometimes. On nights when Asougi hadn't needed to meet with Susato or Hosonaga first thing, they'd shared it. Ryuunosuke moves the pillows so they're at his side, and pretends it's the weight of another person.

It never works, though. He always ends up climbing back into the wardrobe. At least there, he can tell himself that this has all been a very bad dream, and Asougi will laugh at him in the morning once he shares these sorrows.

And if this is a dream, he can say what he's been thinking all this time, without fear of discovery or rejection: "I love you."

Surely, when he wakes, Asougi will be right there waiting for him.

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

By: Hugh Tomlinson

Published: Mar 1, 2023

The evolutionary biologist Richard Dawkins has hit out at the New Zealand government for proposing to teach traditional Maori mythology as equal to modern science.

The government of the former prime minister Jacinda Ardern proposed adding Matauranga Maori, or “Ways of Knowing” to the science curriculum, provoking a furious row. The proposal was put forward by the ministry of education, led at the time by Chris Hipkins, who succeeded Ardern after her shock resignation in January.

In a letter to The Spectator, Dawkins, who has recently returned from a speaking tour of New Zealand, attacked the policy of equating Maori knowledge and religious beliefs, which date back to the 13th century and include creationism, with modern science.

Dawkins defended New Zealand scientists who had opposed the plan and faced censure and allegations of racism. A number of fellows at the New Zealand Royal Society, including Garth Cooper, a medal-winning biochemistry professor at the University of Auckland who is of Maori descent, resigned from the society last year.

Seven professors, including Cooper, wrote a letter titled “In defence of science” to the New Zealand Listener in 2021, acknowledging that Matauranga Maori should be taught in schools but should not be equated with modern science. The letter said that indigenous knowledge and beliefs were “critical for the preservation and perpetuation of culture and local practices” but that “in the discovery of empirical, universal truths, it falls far short of what we can define as science itself”.

Five Royal Society members reportedly complained that the letter had caused them “untold harm and hurt”.

“Perhaps the most disagreeable aspect of this sorry affair is the climate of fear,” Dawkins wrote, attacking the New Zealand government for “self-righteous virtue signalling”.

“New Zealand children will be taught the true wonder of DNA, while being simultaneously confused by the doctrine that all life throbs with a vital force conferred by the Earth Mother and the Sky Father,” he wrote. “Origin myths are haunting and poetic, but they belong elsewhere in the curriculum.”

The government has taken several steps to incorporate indigenous beliefs into government policy over recent years. In 2017, the Ardern administration granted legal personhood to the Whanganui River, closing one of New Zealand’s longest-running court battles. The Maori had campaigned for more than a century to secure legal protection for the river, and the ruling prompted other countries to grant legal rights to natural treasures.

Dawkins is a long-term critic of Matauranga Maori. In a 2021 letter to the Royal Society of New Zealand, he wrote: “Science classes are emphatically not the right place to teach scientific falsehoods. Creationism is still bollocks even if it is indigenous bollocks.”

[ Via: https://archive.is/TjzrP ]

==

The argument being made here is that it's "unfair" or even "bigoted" to not grant indigenous myths and legends "equality" in the science classroom, to be given equal time and equal consideration with actual science. That they are entitled to access to the science classroom as a form of "inclusion," despite never being subject to - and indeed, declared immune from - the process of scientific checking.

It does this through manipulation and exploitation of egalitarian instincts. This is the same tactic the creationists adopted.

Thus the creationists began to portray themselves as an oppressed minority. “Under the present system . . . the student is being indoctrinated in a philosophy of secular humanism,” one typical creationist complained. “The authoritarianism of the medieval church has been replaced by the authoritarianism of rational materialism. Constitutional guarantees are violated and free scientific inquiry is stifled under this blanket of dogmatism.” That is what a fundamentalist Christian state education official in Arizona was getting at when he said that if parents tell their children that the earth is flat, teachers have no right to contradict them. No one has a right to impose his opinion on others—and the idea that humans evolved from earlier species is, the Christians said, ultimately just some people’s opinion.

-- Jonathan Rauch, "Kindly Inquisitors"

But neither creationism nor indigenous myths are entitled to inclusion in the science classroom. Because neither has been subjected to rigorous testing or disconfirmation, and are therefore not science. No matter what sort of emotional exploitation creationists and activists try to pull. The only thing any idea is entitled to inclusion in is submitting itself to the competitive and contentious process of scientific checking.

Unfortunately, while the former is being kept at bay, the latter has made significant inroads at corrupting scientific education and inquiry.

[laresearchette]

Thursday, August 08, 2024 Canadian TV Listings (Times Eastern)

WHERE CAN I FIND THOSE PREMIERES: RUTHLESS (BET+) DYING FOR REVENGE (BritBox) TAKEN TOGETHER: WHO KILLED LYRIC AND ELIZABETH? (Crave) 10:00pm

WHAT IS NOT PREMIERING IN CANADA TONIGHT: MR. THROWBACK (TBD)

NEW TO AMAZON PRIME CANADA/CBC GEM/CRAVE TV/DISNEY + STAR/NETFLIX CANADA:

AMAZON PRIME CANADA CHANDU CHAMPION THE MALLORCA FILES (Season 3) NADIE NOS VA A EXTRAÑAR ONE FAST MOVE THE SHAKEDOWN

CRAVE TV TAKEN TOGETHER: WHO KILLED LYRIC AND ELIZABETH? (Episodes 1-3)

DISNEY + STAR ARE YOU SURE?! (Season 1, two-episode premiere)

NETFLIX CANADA KINGSMAN: THE GOLDEN CIRCLE KINGSMAN: THE SECRET SERVICE SHAHMARAN (Season 2) (TR) THE UMBRELLA ACADEMY (Season 4)

ESPN THE OCHO!!!!! (TSN2) 1:00am: Freestyle Trampoline 1:30am: Axe & Knife Throwing 2:00am: 2023 World Jump Rope Championship 3:00am: Rubik’s Cube 4:00am: 2024 Teqball World Series 5:00am: Viii Sports National Championship 6:00am: Omegaball 7:00am: 2024 Pro Breaking Tour Invitational 7:30am: ZoneBall Clash 8:00am: 2022 Speed Chess Championship 8:30 am: UNAA 9:00am: Ultimate Tire Wrestling 9:30am: OneWheel World Championship 10:00am: Waiter and Waitress Competition 10:30am: Kickball Championship 11:30am: Carjitsu Championship 12:00pm: Beard and Mustache Competition 12:30pm: ProSayuita SUP Open 1:00pm: 2024 Pop-A-Shot National Championship 2:00pm: Battle of the Buoy 2 2:30pm: Microsoft Excel World Championship Finals 3:00pm: 2024 AWA Wiffle Ball All-Star Game 4:00pm: Roofball World Championship 4:30pm: 2024 Major League Paintball - Atlantic City Open 5:00pm: 2023 National Putting Tour Final 6:00pm: 2024 Adult Big Wheel Races 6:30pm: National Beach Tennis Invitational 7:00pm: USA Dodgeball All-Star Showcase 8:00pm: 2024 World Dog Surfing Championship 8:30pm: Slippery Stairs 9:30pm: 2024 Corgi Races 10:00pm: Major League Table Tennis Championship 11:00pm: FlingGolf All-Star Skills Championship

2024 SUMMER OLYMPICS (CBC) 4:00am: Athletics (SN) 4:50am: Olympic Morning (TSN/TSN4) 5:00am: Olympic Games (CBC) 7:00am: Morning (CBC) 7:30am: Canoe Sprint (CBC) 8:00am: Morning (CBC) 9:00am: Men’s Diving (CBC) 10:30am: Morning (CBC) 11:00am: Track Cycling (SN/TSN) 12:00pm: Olympic Daytime (CBC) 1:30pm: Athletics (CBC) 4:30pm: Prime (CBC/SN/TSN/TSN4) 7:00pm: Olympic Primetime (CBC) 12:00am: Late Primetime (CBC) 1:30am: Marathon Swimming (Friday)

NATIONAL BANK OPEN (SN Now) 11:00am: Women's Grandstand Coverage (SN Now) 11:00am: Men's Court Rogers Coverage (SN360) 12:30pm: Women's Day Session (SN1) 12:30pm: Men's Day Session (SN360) 7:00pm: Women's Evening Session (SN1) 7:00pm: Men's Evening Session

MLB BASEBALL (SN) 6:30pm: Orioles vs. Jays (SN Now) 7:00pm: Angels vs. Yankees

CFL FOOTBALL (TSN/TSN5) 7:30pm: Roughriders vs. Redblacks

THE SUMMIT AUSTRALIA (Discovery Channel Canada) 8:00pm: The group learns about a chaser racing to catch them, so will need to step it up a gear if they want to avoid their cash being stolen; a terrifying obstacle stands in their way and two of the biggest competitors go head to head.

THE GREAT POTTERY THROW DOWN (Makeful) 8:00pm: Four semifinalists brave the infamous toilet challenge; feeling the adrenalin rise as guest judge and prestige ceramic artist Lee Price offers up a bathroom-themed surprise second challenge.

LEAGUES CUP (TSN3) 8:30pm: TBD (TSN3) 10:30pm: TBD

LEGO MASTERS AUSTRALIA (Discovery Canada) 9:45pm: Explosion in Motion

[mostlysignssomeportents]

This day in history

I'm touring my n ew, nationally bestselling novel The Bezzle! Catch me SATURDAY (Apr 27) in MARIN COUNTY, then Winnipeg (May 2), Calgary (May 3), Vancouver (May 4), and beyond!

#15yrsago London cop’s Facebook: “Can’t wait to bash” G20 protestors http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/london/8016620.stm

#15yrsago Dangerous terrorists arrested in the UK weren’t http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/8011955.stm

#10yrsago Muslims sue FBI: kept on no-fly list because they wouldn’t turn informant https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2014/04/suit-claims-muslims-put-on-no-fly-list-for-refusing-to-become-informants/

#10yrsago Lost Warhol originals extracted from decaying Amiga floppies https://web.archive.org/web/20140424093724/https://studioforcreativeinquiry.org/events/warhol-discovery

#10yrsago Making a planetary-scale sandwich https://www.reddit.com/r/pics/comments/23symq/me_located_in_iceland_and_my_friend_located_in/

#10yrsago Drunk 18 year old girl rushed to hospital from Canadian PM Stephen Harper’s residence https://nationalpost.com/news/canada/intoxicated-18-year-old-girl-reportedly-rushed-to-hospital-from-prime-minister-harpers-residence

#5yrsago Nest’s “ease of use” imperative plus poor integration with Google security has turned it into a hacker’s playground https://memex.craphound.com/2019/04/24/nests-ease-of-use-imperative-plus-poor-integration-with-google-security-has-turned-it-into-a-hackers-playground/

#1yrago How Goldman Sachs's "tax-loss harvesting" lets the ultra-rich rake in billions tax-free https://pluralistic.net/2023/04/24/tax-loss-harvesting/#mego

[fictionfromafar]

Back From The Dead by Heidi Amsinck

Back From The Dead

Heidi Amsinck

Muswell Press

Publication Date: 18 April 2024

It was shortly after the Covid Lockdown when I first picked up My Name is Jensen, the first of Heidi Amsinck's novels that would become the first in the Jensen Thriller series. While many of the Nordic Noir novels that I read are written by authors living in their respective countries which are then translated into English, this novel stood out as Amsinck is a Dane living in London and writing her novel in English. The story was a standout in other ways too, portraying the difficulties encountered by journalist Jensen (she has forbidden use of her first name) as she investigates the death of several homeless men on the return to her home city of Copenhagen. Creating not simply a complex main protagonist, but also a supporting cast including Jensen's on - off married lover Detective Inspector Henrik Jungersen, the novel was primed to become a series. Pleasingly Heidi Amsinck's debut became a success not just in the UK, but also in Denmark and since in several other European countries.

Somehow I appeared to miss the follow up story, 2022's The Girl in the Photo yet I do feel that this offers me a chance to opine on the strength of Back From The Dead as a standalone novel as well as part of a series. Although the story does recall events and reintroduce characters from the earlier books gradually from outset, I do believe that many readers would soon adapt to Jensen without further background information. As we encounter Jensen in Back From The Dead she appears to be reasonably settled by her own standards, in a new relationship and while there are cost cutting measures occurring at her newspaper, Jensen appears to be in favour. By contrast Jungersen's marriage is on shaky ground and while a planned trip to Italy offers the chance to spend some well earned time with his family, the discovery of a headless corpse in Copenhagen's harbour could potentially put that at risk - but equally might the detective's own reoccurring thoughts of Jensen.

In contrast to the snowy conditions of her debut, Copenhagen is experiencing a June heatwave when Jensen hears some concerning news about a friend of her's who has apparently disappeared. When her initial investigations reach a dead end she reluctantly contacts Henrik Jungersen for help. It soon appears more than likely that his body could well be that of her friend. Yet far more is at play than either of them realise and the repercussions of their involvement will deeply impact each of the main characters' professional and personal lives.

With short chapters often alternating between the two key characters, the book compels you to continue reading and there are some twists along the way, some of which I found more surprising than others. Back From The Dead will certainly find appeal with many crime fiction readers and also features some traits of Scandinavian crime fiction which many will feel comfortable with - successful capitalists are rarely good people, to name a familiar one. I found this a strong addition to the Jensen Thriller series, although the one aspect I might have liked more of would have been a greater flavour of the city of Copenhagen; which I did feel was more strongly felt in the debut. I do have to concede though that this is may well not be so much a factor for other crime readers. The ending leaves little doubt that the series will continue and I look forward to future developments in Jensen's story.

Many thanks to Muswell Press for an advance copy of Back From The Dead and to Anne Cater of Random Things Tours for inclusion on the blog tour. Look out for other reviews of this novel on the blog tour poster as shown below:

A Missing person … a headless corpse … Jensen is on the case. June, and as Copenhagen swelters under record temperatures, a headless corpse surfaces in the murky harbour, landing a new case on the desk of DI Henrik Jungersen, just as his holiday is about to start. Elsewhere in the city, Syrian refugee Aziz Almasi, driver to Esben Nørregaard MP has vanished. Fearing a link to shady contacts from his past, Nørregaard appeals to crime reporter Jensen to investigate. Could the body in the harbour be Aziz? Jensen turns to former lover Henrik for help. As events spiral dangerously out of control, they are thrown together once more in the pursuit of evil, in a case more twisted and, more dangerous than they could ever have imagined.

Heidi Amsinck won the Danish Criminal Academy's Debut Award for My Name is Jensen (2021), the first book in a new series featuring Copenhagen reporter sleuth Jensen and her motley crew of helpers. She published her second Jensen novel, The Girl in Photo, in July 2022, with the third due out in February 2024. A journalist by background, Heidi spent many years covering Britain for the Danish press, including a spell as London Correspondent for the broadsheet daily Jyllands-Posten. She has written numerous short stories for BBC Radio 4, such as the three-story sets Danish Noir, Copenhagen Confidential and Copenhagen Curios, all produced by Sweet Talk and featuring in her collection Last Train to Helsingør (2018). Heidi's work has been translated from the original English into Danish, German and Czech.

[scotianostra]

Happy Birthday actress Lindsay Duncan born in Edinburgh November 7th 1950.

Lindsay’s father had served in the army for 21 years before becoming a civil servant. Her parents moved to Leeds while she was still a child.

After studying drama in London she began working on Eighties TV productions such as Dead Head and Traffik.

She was awarded a Laurence Olivier award for best actress in a new play in 1987 for her portrayal as La Marquise de Merteuil in an RSC production of Les Liaisons Dangereuses, and from there her career went from strength to strength.

My favourite roles from Lindsay are playing the girlfriend in the excellent ITV series Travelling man opposite Leigh Lawson, and the bitchy Barbara Douglas in Alan Bleasdale’s GBH. In 2009 Lindsay played Margaret Thatcher in the BBC feature length drama Margaret, at the time she commented about the former prime minister that she loathed everything the former Thatcher stood for.

Other TV appearances included, A year in Provence, Reilly, Ace of Spies, Spooks, Doctor Who and more recently Churchill’s Secret, all quality dramas.  Her only role I know of with a Scottish accent was the 2003 film Afterlife which also starred Kevin McKidd and Isla Blair.

Fans of Benedict Cumberbatch in Sherlock might remember her as Lady Smallwood, she was also in the recent series A Discovery of Witches on Sky in 2018, appearing in 5 of the 8 episodes.

Lindsay cut her teeth in theatre and has always supported this genre with stage roles all through her career as well as starring in several films ranging from Star Wars: Episode I to Mansfield Park. Her latest roles have been in Inside No. 9,, a British black comedy anthology TV show and in the film  A Banquet,  a British horror film directed by Scottish filmmaker and writer Ruth Paxton

Next up for Lindsay is  Doctor Jekyll, yet another re-imagining of the infamous Dr. Jekyll from Robert Louis Stevenson's 1886 novella The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde.  Eddie Izzard has been cast as Jekyll. She has recently been touring theatres in The Dance of Death. 

Lindsay is married to fellow Scottish actor Hilton McRae, and the couple have a son, Cal, born in 1991.

[ptbf2002]

To Celebrate Canada Day, I'll Be Doing My Top 10 Favorite Cartoons From Canada.

#10 Total Drama Island

#9 George of the Jungle (2007 TV series)

#8 Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs: The Series

#7 Ollie's Pack

#6 Grojband

#5 The Kids from Room 402

#4 Chuck's Choice

#3 Pucca (TV series)

#2 Monster Buster Club

And #1 Camp Lakebottom

Honorable Mentions: Ed, Edd n Eddy, The Last Kids on Earth, Sonic Prime, The Snoopy Show, Total Drama Action, Total Drama All-Stars, Total Drama Presents: The Ridonculous Race, Total Drama World Tour, Total Drama: Pahkitew Island, Total Drama: Revenge of the Island, Wild Kratts, Hilda, Angry Birds: Summer Madness, Being Ian, Dorg Van Dango, And Dr. Dimensionpants.

Original Template: https://www.deviantart.com/toongirl18/art/Top-10-Favorite-Canadian-Cartoons-408528581

Total Drama Island Belongs To Tom McGillis, Jennifer Pertsch, Elliott Animation Inc. Fresh TV Inc. CAKE Entertainment Ltd. TELETOON Original Production TELETOON Canada Inc. Corus Entertainment Inc. Cartoon Network, The Cartoon Network, Inc. Warner Bros. Discovery Networks, Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution Warner Bros. Television Studios, Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. WarnerMedia And Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.

George of the Jungle (2007 TV series) Belongs To Jay Ward, Bill Scott, Copernicus Studios Inc. Top Draw Animation, Inc. Studio B Productions, Inc. DHX Media Vancouver, WildBrain Studios, WildBrain Ltd. Bullwinkle Studios LLC, Classic Media, LLC, Entertainment Rights PLC, DreamWorks Classics, TELETOON Original Production TELETOON Canada Inc. Corus Entertainment Inc. Cartoon Network, The Cartoon Network, Inc. Warner Bros. Discovery Networks, Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution Warner Bros. Television Studios, Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. WarnerMedia And Warner Bros. Discovery, Inc.

Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs: The Series Belongs To Mark Evestaff, Alex Galatis, DHX Media Vancouver, WildBrain Studios, WildBrain Ltd. Sony Pictures Animation Inc. Sony Pictures Television Studios, Sony Pictures Television Inc. Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc. Sony Entertainment, Inc. Sony Corporation of America, Sony Group Corporation, YTV (TV channel), YTV Canada, Inc. And Corus Entertainment Inc.

Ollie's Pack Belongs To Pedro Eboli, Graham Peterson, Birdo Studio, Nelvana Enterprises Inc. Nickelodeon, Nickelodeon Group, Paramount Global Content Distribution, Paramount International Networks, Paramount Domestic Media Networks, Paramount Media Networks, Inc. Paramount Global, YTV (TV channel), YTV Canada, Inc. And Corus Entertainment Inc.

Grojband Belongs To Todd Kauffman, Mark Thornton, Elliott Animation Inc. Neptoon Studios, Fresh TV Inc. Fremantle Limited, TELETOON Original Production TELETOON Canada Inc. And Corus Entertainment Inc.

The Kids from Room 402 Belongs To Betty Paraskevas, Michael Paraskevas, Chile Animación, New Vision International, CinéGroupe, Saban Entertainment, Inc. FOX Family Channel, FOX Kids, TELETOON, TELETOON Canada Inc. And Corus Entertainment Inc.

Chuck's Choice Belongs To Kervin Faria, Top Draw Animation, Inc. Studio B Productions, Inc. DHX Media Vancouver, WildBrain Studios, WildBrain Ltd. YTV (TV channel), YTV Canada, Inc. And Corus Entertainment Inc.

Pucca (TV series) Belongs To Boo Kyoung Kim, Calvin Kim, VOOZ Character System, Studio B Productions, Inc. DHX Media Vancouver, WildBrain Studios, WildBrain Ltd. MBC TV (South Korean TV channel), Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation, JETIX, Jetix Europe N.V. Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution, Disney Branded Television, Disney General Entertainment Content, Disney Entertainment, Disney Enterprises, Inc. And The Walt Disney Company

Monster Buster Club Belongs To Vincent Chalvon-Demersay, David Michel, Designstorm Animation Studio, Zodiak Kids Studios France, Banijay, Image Entertainment Corporation, TF1, TF1 Group, JETIX, Jetix Europe N.V. Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution, Disney Branded Television, Disney General Entertainment Content, Disney Entertainment, Disney Enterprises, Inc. The Walt Disney Company, YTV (TV channel), YTV Canada, Inc. And Corus Entertainment Inc.

Camp Lakebottom Belongs To Eric Jacobson, Betsy McGowen, Meghan Davies, Shelley Hoffman, Robert Pincombe, Skywriter Media & Entertainment Group, Jam Filled Entertainment, Boat Rocker Media Inc. 9 Story Media Group Inc. Disney XD, Disney Media and Entertainment Distribution, Disney Branded Television, Disney General Entertainment Content, Disney Entertainment, Disney Enterprises, Inc. The Walt Disney Company, TELETOON Original Production TELETOON Canada Inc. And Corus Entertainment Inc.

[tiredassmage]

Astor(ses): 5

Shay: 7

Uhhhh Tyr: 10

love you bestie <3

Short context on the first one for those who may not have seen me rattle it off before, Astor is probably my longest-lived OC who I take with my practically everywhere I go - and whom generally shares the same core values, regardless of changes to fit the media I subject him to at the current time. xD

5. Guilty Pleasures. This one happens to be something they could probably differ on, lol.

Not that he exactly feels guilty about this, but if there is not time for tea, time will be made for tea. Especially after saving the literal whole damn universe and finally getting that psuedo-retirement feel in his bones, he finally has the time and headspace for some proper damn self-care.

Anyway, actual guilty pleasures he'd blush about? Romcoms. There was a day he'd swear up and down he'd not read silly little romances, particularly if things got heated anywhere in the running, but, hey... he is a bit of a romantic at heart. Even if he's utterly oblivious about flirting until you all but hit him in the face. Unironically would enjoy poetry. Sappy, flowery poetry. Sleeping in every once and again also feels really nice even though he usually doesn't. Spending an entire day in pajamas, especially if its just to cozy up and read on the couch.

Man's usually busy, okay?

Astor Astserses likes to indulge in a little local cultural exploration when he can when he's somewhere new. Local food - for better or for worse - is usually an experience you can't quite find anywhere else. Do they have a sightseeing tour if its a more touristy area? He'd love to see it. He'd also probably spend his entire day with his nose buried in a library and holobooks if given half a chance. And his inner child would love a chance to stop at the petting zoo. So, it's mostly for kids, but some things you just don't leave behind. (As if summoned, my dog tried to lay across my keyboard as I typed this. Everyone say hi James!)

7. Their tickle spots.

Your bastard son would rather shrivel up into a raisin (a terrible thing for his narcissistic streak) than admit to being ticklish. He'd gruffly claim he isn't, but I think it'd be more hilarious if he was, especially if it's in like. His ribs. Typical. Predictable. Easy to reach when he does - rarely - let his guard down. He would swear anyone with this knowledge to secrecy because he can find you. He knows where you sleep.

Thank you for indulge my son. 10. Fears/phobias.

I'm not sure Tyr fears anything enough to classify it as a phobia, but fears? Sure!

A fear of discovery is maybe an obvious, but probably the most lingering one. Close advisors are in on his history as a double agent serving the Republic while taking Imperial orders, but Tyr has almost a dread - that he's, granted, rather good at masking most of the times - that discovery isn't an if, but an inevitability. And that the consequences will be unpleasant, at minimum, and... unfortunate. He usually skips right over the 'should've quite while you were ahead' flavors of this because he... didn't and he really sees no point in changing that now.

And... realistically, he wouldn't want to. It's a weird thing where he's starting to realize more recently that he doesn't want to fight this war forever, but he also has no actual plan for stopping. He doesn't know what that would look like and he's not motivated enough to try to find out. It's also kind of a sense of duty thing for him. He knows how to fight back and therefore he feels like he should. Where he is now is a prime position from which to do so, so doing anything else almost feels like abandoning ship. I'm sort of getting ahead of myself because @captainderyn also asked 6 (vices) for him and this is related, but I'll save that ramble for there. xD

I don't think he's consciously confronted the deeper uneasiness of not... exactly knowing who he is if he isn't Cipher Nine, even all these years later as Alliance Commander. He's not out from under his Intelligence career because it's what put him in this position, so he's never had cause to entirely discard that identity. Not even necessarily a reason to want to. Want to get away from the Empire and its ways, yes, a want to leave what happened to him in the past, certainly, a desire to never again be that level of pawn, absolutely, but he also sees himself as Nine as his own tool. Nine was another mask that helped him survive in a world without Imperial Intelligence to report to. Out of necessity or convenience, he still bore it like a shield as much as the dagger in the night.

You also probably won't catch him walking Odessen's wild alone at night ever again. Just a precaution. Earlier through the day? Sure. He's slipped off a few times to clear his head.

"We need to talk" is also never a good sentence starter and not even he's immune to that. Nobody liked that.

[bandwagon-travel]

Discover the Magic of India with a Delhi Agra One Day Tour

If you’re looking to experience the rich history and culture of India but are short on time, the Delhi Agra one day tour is the perfect option. This tour allows you to explore two of India’s most iconic cities and their world-famous landmarks, all in just one day. From the bustling capital of Delhi to the majestic Taj Mahal in Agra, this tour is a time-efficient way to witness the best of India.

Why Choose the Delhi Agra One Day Tour?

The Delhi Agra one day tour is designed for those who want to experience India’s historical and cultural highlights without committing to a multi-day trip. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family, or a couple, this tour offers convenience, comfort, and a memorable journey through some of the country’s most beautiful and historic sites.

Here are the top reasons to choose this tour:

Taj Mahal: A Wonder of the World A highlight of any trip to India is undoubtedly the Taj Mahal. Known for its stunning white marble architecture and romantic history, the Taj Mahal is one of the most recognized landmarks in the world. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, the Taj Mahal symbolizes eternal love and stands as a masterpiece of architecture. On the Delhi Agra one day tour, you'll have the chance to witness this breathtaking monument up close.

Agra Fort: A Glimpse into India’s Royal Past After your visit to the Taj Mahal, your tour will take you to the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prime example of Mughal architecture. This grand fort served as the residence of Mughal emperors and contains numerous palaces, mosques, and audience halls. It’s an incredible way to dive deep into India’s regal past, with its impressive red sandstone walls and ornate designs.

Convenient Travel Between Delhi and Agra The Delhi Agra one day tour offers smooth and comfortable travel, either by a private car or via India’s Gatimaan Express, one of the fastest trains between the two cities. The travel time is approximately 2 hours, allowing you to spend more time sightseeing and less time commuting. You'll be picked up from your Delhi location early in the morning, ensuring you get the most out of your day.

Enjoy a Delicious Lunch in Agra A trip to Agra is incomplete without sampling the local cuisine. Most Delhi Agra one day tours include a lunch stop at a fine restaurant in Agra, where you can enjoy authentic Mughlai dishes or a mix of Indian and international options. Refuel before continuing your exploration of the city’s historical sites.

Return to Delhi the Same Day One of the best parts of this tour is that you can return to Delhi by evening. This makes it an ideal option for those who have limited time but don’t want to miss out on visiting one of the Seven Wonders of the World. After a day of discovery, you’ll be back in Delhi, ready to unwind or continue exploring the city’s nightlife.

Customization and Additional Options

If you have some extra time, you can further customize your Delhi Agra one day tour to include additional sites such as:

Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb (Baby Taj): A smaller, yet intricately designed mausoleum that is often considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal’s architecture.

Mehtab Bagh: A garden located across the Yamuna River, offering a stunning view of the Taj Mahal at sunset.

Local Markets: Discover Agra’s vibrant markets, filled with handicrafts, marble inlay work, and souvenirs that represent the city’s artistic heritage.

Best Time to Visit

The Delhi Agra one day tour can be taken year-round, but the best time to visit Agra is during the cooler months, from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy sightseeing without the heat of the Indian summer.

What to Bring on Your Delhi Agra One Day Tour

Comfortable clothing and shoes: Be prepared for a full day of exploration.

Sunglasses and sunscreen: Protect yourself from the sun, especially during your visit to the Taj Mahal.

Camera: Capture the beauty of the Taj Mahal and Agra Fort, as these are memories you’ll want to keep forever.

Water bottle: Stay hydrated, as you’ll be on the go for most of the day.

Personal ID: Carry your passport or a valid ID, as this is often required for entry into the Taj Mahal.

Conclusion

A Delhi Agra one day tour offers an unforgettable experience, bringing together India’s history, culture, and architectural brilliance in just a few hours. Whether you’re gazing upon the stunning Taj Mahal or exploring the intricate halls of Agra Fort, this day tour provides a perfect snapshot of India’s glorious past and present. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time but a big appetite for adventure and discovery.

Book your Delhi Agra one day tour today with Bandwagon Travel for a hassle-free and expertly guided journey. Let the experts take care of all the details while you immerse yourself in the beauty and history of Agra.

[burundisafaritour]

Safari Trips in Burundi: An Undiscovered Gem for Wildlife Enthusiasts

When most people think of safari destinations in Africa, countries like Kenya, Tanzania, and South Africa often come to mind. However, there is a hidden gem in the heart of East Africa that offers incredible safari experiences without the crowds: Burundi. Nestled along the shores of Lake Tanganyika and bordered by Rwanda, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi is a small but diverse country with lush landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.

Though less frequented than its neighbours, safari trips in Burundi offer a unique and intimate wildlife experience for adventurous travellers. Whether you're looking to explore national parks, spot rare animals, or experience traditional culture, safari tours in Burundi will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Why Choose Burundi for a Safari?

Burundi may not be as widely known as other safari destinations, but it holds its own unique charm:

Uncrowded and Untouched: One of the biggest draws of a safari in Burundi is its tranquility. Unlike more popular safari destinations, Burundi’s national parks and wildlife reserves are far from crowded, allowing for an intimate and immersive experience with nature.

Diverse Ecosystems: Despite its small size, Burundi offers a range of ecosystems—from dense rainforests and rolling hills to savannahs and wetlands. This diversity makes it a haven for a wide variety of wildlife.

Cultural Enrichment: Beyond the wildlife, Burundi is rich in culture and tradition. Safari tours often include visits to local communities where you can learn about Burundian customs, music, and dances, adding a meaningful cultural dimension to your trip.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure: For travelers looking for something different, Burundi provides a sense of adventure and discovery that is harder to find in more tourist-heavy safari destinations.

Top Safari Destinations in Burundi

While Burundi may not have the vast national parks of Kenya or Tanzania, it boasts a number of protected areas that are home to a variety of wildlife species. Here are the key safari destinations in the country:

1. Rusizi National Park

Located near Burundi’s capital, Bujumbura, Rusizi National Park is one of the country’s premier wildlife destinations. The park is centred around the Rusizi River, which creates a lush and fertile environment perfect for wildlife.

Wildlife: The park is famous for its population of hippos, which can often be seen wallowing in the shallow waters of the Rusizi River. In addition to hippos, you can spot crocodiles, various species of antelope, and a wide variety of birdlife. The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to both resident and migratory species.

Activities: Safari tours in Rusizi National Park typically include boat safaris along the Rusizi River, providing an up-close view of hippos and other wildlife. Game drives are also available, allowing visitors to explore the savannahs and grasslands that stretch beyond the river.

2. Ruvubu National Park

The largest protected area in Burundi, Ruvubu National Park stretches along the Ruvubu River and is a prime destination for safari enthusiasts looking to experience unspoiled wilderness. The park is located in the northeastern part of the country and covers an area of over 500 square kilometers.

Wildlife: Ruvubu is home to a variety of animals, including buffalo, antelopes, warthogs, and the occasional leopard. While large predators are relatively rare, the park is known for its diverse range of bird species, making it another excellent spot for birdwatching. With fewer visitors, you’ll feel like you have the park all to yourself.

Activities: Game drives and guided walks are popular ways to explore Ruvubu. The park’s dense vegetation and riverside trails provide opportunities to observe wildlife in a more relaxed setting. Walking safaris, in particular, allow you to get closer to nature and experience the sounds and sights of the park up close.

3. Kibira National Park

Situated in the northwest of Burundi, Kibira National Park is a dense tropical rainforest that forms part of the larger Congo-Nile Ridge. The park is not just a haven for wildlife but also a vital source of water for the country.

Wildlife: Kibira is home to a variety of primates, including chimpanzees and colobus monkeys. It’s a fantastic destination for those interested in primate safaris. In addition to primates, the park hosts a number of rare bird species, and the dense forest is ideal for nature walks and birdwatching.

Activities: A visit to Kibira National Park offers a different type of safari experience. Guided walks through the forest allow you to track chimpanzees and other primates. The forest is also sacred to the Batwa people, and tours often include a cultural component, where you can learn about the traditional forest-dwelling lifestyle of the Batwa community.

4. Lake Tanganyika

While not a traditional safari destination, Lake Tanganyika—the second deepest lake in the world—offers unique opportunities for wildlife viewing and aquatic adventures. Its crystal-clear waters and surrounding landscapes are home to a variety of species.

Wildlife: The waters of Lake Tanganyika are home to a wealth of fish species, including the endemic cichlids. Along its shores, you can find crocodiles and occasionally spot hippos. Birdlife is also abundant along the lake’s edges, with many species flocking to the wetlands.

Activities: Safari tours often include boat trips on Lake Tanganyika, where you can enjoy birdwatching, observe aquatic wildlife, and even snorkel or dive to explore the lake’s underwater biodiversity. The lakeside beaches provide a relaxing setting to unwind after a day of wildlife spotting.

Best Time to Visit Burundi for a Safari

The best time for safari trips in Burundi is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September. During this time, the weather is mild, and wildlife is easier to spot as animals congregate around water sources. The rainy season (October to May) can make roads more difficult to navigate and wildlife more dispersed, but it is also a good time for birdwatching, as migratory species arrive in the region.

Planning Your Safari Tour in Burundi

When planning a safari tour in Burundi, consider the following tips:

Choose the Right Tour Operator: Safari tours in Burundi are still relatively new, so it’s important to choose a reputable tour operator who knows the terrain and can ensure a safe and enriching experience.

Pack Accordingly: Given Burundi’s varied landscapes, it’s important to pack the right gear. Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential, along with sturdy walking shoes for those who plan on taking walking safaris. Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and a good pair of binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Get the Necessary Travel Documents: Ensure your passport is valid, and check if you need a visa to enter Burundi. It’s also a good idea to research the required vaccinations, including yellow fever, before traveling.

Respect Local Customs and Communities: Burundi is home to diverse ethnic groups, each with its own customs and traditions. When visiting local communities as part of your safari tour, be respectful and mindful of local traditions.

Conclusion

Safari tours in Burundi offer a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience for wildlife enthusiasts. From the hippos of Rusizi National Park to the chimpanzees of Kibira and the peaceful shores of Lake Tanganyika, Burundi’s natural beauty and rich biodiversity provide a rewarding and unforgettable safari adventure. Whether you're a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time explorer, Burundi’s untouched wilderness and welcoming culture make it a destination worth discovering.

[yhwhrulz]

Worthy Brief - September 2, 2024

Share in boldness with confidence!

Isaiah 55:11-12 so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it. “For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and the hills before you shall break forth into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.

As we continue into the historical and prophetic significance of the discovery of the Dead Sea scrolls, I take you back to 1948. Professor Eleazar Sukenik discovered that Mar Athanasius Yeshue Samuel, the Syrian Orthodox Archbishop of Jerusalem purchased several of the Dead Sea scrolls. So Professor Sukenik visited the archbishop and took several photos of the scrolls which were then sent to William Albright, a Biblical archaeologist at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore.

Albright’s reply arrived on May 15, 1948: “My heartiest congratulations on the greatest manuscript discovery of modern times! There is no doubt in my mind that the script is more archaic than that of the Nash papyrus…I should prefer a date around 100 B.C.!…What an absolutely incredible find!…”

Notice the date of Albright’s reply! On May 14, 1948, the British mandate ended at midnight. Earlier that day, David Ben-Gurion who would later become Israel’s first prime minister, announced Israel’s Declaration of Independence.

Professor Sukenik failed to purchase the scrolls from the archbishop at the time, as the cleric believed he would get a better price. Later, we discover that Sukenik wrote in his journal, “Thus the Jewish people have lost a precious heritage.” Sukenik passed away in 1953.

Later in 1949, archbishop Samuel traveled to the United States with the scrolls to find a buyer. They went on display at the Library of Congress, and then at other museums and art galleries in the West. However, interest in the scrolls waned and there were no interested buyers for the ancient documents.

Years passed until an ad was placed in the Wall Street Journal in 1954.

“The Four Dead Sea Scrolls, Biblical manuscripts dating back to at least 200 BCE are for sale. This would be an ideal gift to an educational or religious institution by an individual or group. Box F 206, The Wall Street Journal.” Eleazar Sukenik had already passed away, but his son, Yigael Yadin just happened to be in the United States on a lecture tour at the time. Through a series of events, Yadin was able to purchase the scrolls his father failed to obtain.

In an ironic twist, archbishop Samuel was selling the scrolls to raise money for his church. Because of the wording of the sale, the IRS taxed Samuel for the proceeds from the Dead Sea Scrolls … so, even the IRS received a substantial sum of money from the Dead Sea Scrolls!

The purchase included the entire book of Isaiah known as the Isaiah scroll. Until this time the oldest extant Isaiah text was the Aleppo Codex, one of the Masoretic texts, which was written in the 10th century A.D. The Qumran Isaiah scroll was 1000 years OLDER than the Aleppo Codex. The book of Isaiah was written in 700 B.C. and very well may have been used for 500 years, meaning that this copy from the Dead Sea may have been made directly from the original!

The discovery of the Isaiah scroll proved the authenticity of the present Biblical text, as it had remained nearly identical for a thousand years.

The veracity of the Word of God is primarily demonstrated by its authority, revelation, and power to change lives; yet God has also providentially reaffirmed its textual accuracy through these remarkable recent discoveries. Isaiah himself declares by the Holy Spirit: “My Word shall not return empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.” This has proven true in our own lives. Read the beautiful and powerful prophecy of Isaiah. You will be blessed, changed, and equipped to communicate the Lord's truth with His confidence. And thank Him for His faithful and detailed preservation of the texts themselves.

Your family in the Lord with much agape love,

George, Baht Rivka, Obadiah and Elianna (Missouri) (Baltimore, MD)

Editor's Note: Feel free to share any of our content from Worthy, including Devotions, News articles, and more, on your social platforms. You have full permission to copy and repost anything we produce.

Editor's Note: During this war, we have been live blogging throughout the day -- sometimes minute by minute on our Telegram channel. - https://t.me/worthywatch/ Be sure to check it out!

Editor's Note: Dear friends — we are now booking in the following states. Ohio, Kentucky, Michigan, Indiana, West Virginia, Tennessee! If you know Rabbis, Pastors or Leaders who might be interested in powerful Israeli style Hebrew/English worship and a refreshing word from Worthy News about what’s going on in the land, please let us know how to connect with them and we will do our best to get you on our schedule! You can send an email to george [ @ ] worthyministries.com for more information.

[skyglobals]

Discover Kerala: The Ultimate Tour Packages for a Memorable Getaway

Nestled in the southwestern corner of India, Kerala—often referred to as "God's Own Country"—is a place where natural beauty meets cultural richness. Its serene backwaters, lush landscapes, and vibrant traditions make it a prime destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. If you're contemplating a visit to this enchanting state, choosing the right tour package can transform your experience from memorable to magical. Here’s a guide to some of the best Kerala tour packages that promise to deliver a truly unforgettable journey.

1. Backwater Bliss

One of Kerala’s most iconic experiences is its backwaters. Imagine drifting along tranquil waters, surrounded by swaying palm trees and traditional houseboats. This tour package offers:

Houseboat Stay: Spend a night on a luxurious houseboat equipped with modern amenities and traditional décor.

Guided Backwater Tours: Explore the intricate network of canals and lagoons with a knowledgeable guide.

Local Cuisine: Enjoy freshly prepared Kerala meals onboard, featuring local specialties like fish curry and appam.

Scenic Vistas: Witness stunning sunsets and serene morning mist as you glide through the waterways.

2. Hill Station Retreat

For those who prefer the cool embrace of the hills, the Kerala Hill Station Retreat is perfect. This package caters to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike:

Munnar Exploration: Discover Munnar’s tea gardens, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes.

Eravikulam National Park: Spot the endangered Nilgiri Tahr and enjoy guided nature walks.

Tea Factory Visit: Learn about tea production and sample some of the finest teas.

Spice Plantations: Visit spice plantations and understand the role of spices in Kerala’s cuisine.

3. Cultural Sojourn

Kerala’s rich cultural heritage is a tapestry woven with various traditions, art forms, and festivals. This tour package immerses you in the cultural heart of the state:

Kathakali Performance: Experience the traditional dance-drama known for its elaborate costumes and expressive storytelling.

Traditional Cuisine: Savor a variety of Kerala’s authentic dishes, including traditional sadhya (feast) served on a banana leaf.

Historic Temples: Visit ancient temples and learn about their architectural marvels and religious significance.

Local Markets: Wander through bustling markets and interact with local artisans.

4. Beach Bliss

For those drawn to sun, sea, and sand, Kerala’s coastline offers some of the most pristine beaches in India. The Beach Bliss package includes:

Varkala and Kovalam: Relax on the golden sands of these popular beach destinations.

Water Sports: Engage in activities like parasailing, jet skiing, and surfing.

Ayurvedic Treatments: Indulge in rejuvenating Ayurvedic spa treatments to unwind after a day in the sun.

Sunset Cruises: Enjoy a romantic evening cruise along the coastline.

5. Wildlife Wonders

Kerala is also home to diverse wildlife and lush forests. This tour package is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts:

Periyar National Park: Go on a jungle safari to spot elephants, tigers, and various bird species.

Wayanad Wildlife Sanctuary: Explore the sanctuary’s dense forests and observe its rich biodiversity.

Elephant Interaction: Visit an elephant camp where you can feed and bathe these gentle giants.

Nature Trails: Experience guided treks through forest trails and scenic landscapes.

Conclusion

Kerala offers an array of tour packages that cater to diverse interests, from serene backwater cruises and hill station escapes to cultural immersions and wildlife adventures. Each package is designed to showcase the unique charm of Kerala, ensuring that every traveler leaves with cherished memories. Whether you're seeking tranquility, adventure, or cultural enrichment, Kerala’s tour packages promise a journey filled with discovery, delight, and deep connection to this beautiful corner of the world.

Embrace the magic of Kerala and let its natural beauty and rich heritage leave an indelible mark on your soul.

[laresearchette]

Friday, June 16, 2023 Canadian TV Listings (Times Eastern)

WHERE CAN I FIND THOSE PREMIERES?: LOVELY LITTLE FARM (Apple TV +)

WHAT IS NOT PREMIERING IN CANADA TONIGHT? OUTLANDER (Premiering on June 18 on W Network at 9:00pm) HOFFMAN FAMILY GOLD (Premiering on June 19 on Discovery Canada at 9:00pm)

NEW TO AMAZON PRIME CANADA/CBC GEM/CRAVE TV/DISNEY + STAR/NETFLIX CANADA:

AMAZON PRIME CANADA GUY RITCHIE’S THE COVENANT THE GRAND TOUR (Season 5)

CBC GEM ALTER BOYS THE AWAKENERS EVER DEADLY HOT CAKES ICE KING MARIE ANTOINETTE

CRAVE TV AUSTIN POWERS IN GOLDMEMBER AUSTIN POWERS: INTERNATIONAL MAN OF MYSTERY BILLIONAIRES MURDERS (Season 1, Episodes 1-2) BROS THE DARJEELING LIMITED FANTASTIC MR. FOX FATHER OF THE BRIDE GAIA HAPPY GILMORE INDEPENDENCE DAY THE INHABITANT MOONRISE KINGDOM MY GIRL (1991) PACIFIC RIM RESERVOIR DOGS THE ROYAL TENENBAUMS THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING MISSOURI

DISNEY + STAR CHEVALIER STAN LEE

NETFLIX CANADA BLACK CLOVER: SWORD OF THE WIZARD KING EXTRACTION 2

2023 US OPEN (TSN4) 9:40am: Second Round - Part I (TSN4) 1:00pm: Second Round - Part II (TSN4/TSN5) 8:00pm: Second Round - Part III

MLB BASEBALL (SN1) 7:00pm: Yankees vs. Red Sox (SN) 8:00pm: Jays vs. Rangers (SN Now) 9:30pm: Rays vs. Padres (SN1/SN Now) 10:00pm: Giants vs. Dodgers

VILLENEUVE PIRONI: RACING'S UNTOLD TRAGEDY (Crave) 7:20pm: The story of Canadian Formula 1 legend Gilles Villeneuve and French star Didier Pironi, two fearless Ferrari Formula 1 drivers, forever torn apart by a historic and hugely controversial moment in time.

MICHIF COUNTRY (APTN) 8:30pm: Métis musician and cultural ambassador Andrina Turenne hunts with local Métis hunting guide Charles Langelier; although Andrina has hunted moose and deer, this is her first time personally harvesting a deer.

CFL FOOTBALL (TSN/TSN3) 9:00pm: Ti-Cats vs. Blue Bombers

CROSS COUNTRY CAKE OFF (CTV) 9:00pm: After telling their story through cake, four cake connoisseurs are selected as the crème de la crème to bake in the "Cross Country Cake Off" kitchen; they're challenged to let their cake talents shine with an "After Dark" themed creation.

TEMPTATION ISLAND (CTV Life) 9:00pm (SEASON PREMIERE): Four new couples test their relationships with fresh twists and turns in the season premiere.

THE JANE MYSTERIES: INHERITANCE LOST (W Network) 9:00pm: Singer Jane Da Silva inherits a nonprofit detective agency that helps people who aren't able to help themselves. With guidance from her aunt and a detective, Jane takes on the case of a mother's untimely death years earlier.

GAIA (Crave) 9:00pm: A park ranger takes shelter with two survivalists after an attack by mysterious creatures in a primordial forest.

THE BIG D (CTV Life) 10:00pm: Six recently divorced couples reunite in Costa Rica to search for love again.

CRIME BEAT (Global) 10:00pm: Senior crime reporters provide updates on a few stories they previously covered; they share several significant developments -- including a major decision made by the Supreme Court of Canada that's impacted multiple murder cases across the country.

THE INHABITANT (Crave) 10:40pm: A series of supernatural events reveals a dark truth behind a tormented teenager.