#Medford High School

[ericityyy]

Hi :D I was wondering if we could have a georgie cooper x reader where the reader comes from a family of pagans so they’re perceived as kinda freakish by most of the town and georgie develops a crush on her?

please, and thank you

𝐃𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐆𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐭

𝙎𝙪𝙢𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙮: 𝘈 𝘨𝘪𝘳𝘭 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘣𝘦𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘧𝘴, 𝘪𝘴 𝘥𝘪𝘧𝘧𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘵 𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵? 𝘖𝘳 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘱𝘭𝘢𝘪𝘯 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘤?

𝙏𝙧𝙤𝙥𝙚: 𝘖𝘱𝘱𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘴 𝘈𝘵𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵

𝙏𝙮𝙥𝙚: 𝘈𝘯𝘨𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘍𝘭𝘶𝘧𝘧

𝙒𝙤𝙧𝙙 𝘾𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙩: 2,552

𝙒𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜: 𝘉𝘶𝘭𝘭𝘺𝘪𝘯𝘨

𝙈𝙖𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩

𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩 1, 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩 2

“Hi, I know we’re not close, but would you like to come to my birthday this Saturday?"

The girl who was asked looked at her friends while trying to stifle their laughter. “I’m sorry, I would love to, but I can't,” the girl finally said before walking out with her friends, laughing on the way.

"Oh, uhm, that’s okay.” Y/N sighed sadly when she crossed out another name on her list, looking at all the other crossed-out names. “I guess it’s just me again.” The girl smiled bitterly while deciding to sit on the stairs, observing how students come and go from room to room.

The bell rang, and all the students, one by one, went their own way. The girl, after seeing the last student go inside a classroom, waited for a minute or two before going to her own subject.

"Ah, Ms. L/N, care to explain why you’re late today?” Miss Ingram, the math teacher of Medford High School, paused with her writing and turned her full focus on the girl who just entered, making the other students turn their attention as well to the girl.

Y/N was about to answer before she was cut off by one of the football players of the school, “Maybe she was doing her voodoo freakshow to make us like her.” The class laughed except the Cooper brothers, one because he did not get the joke, while the other because the ‘joke’ was not funny.

“What do you mean by making us like her?” The girl that Y/N invited earlier frowned at the jock as she turned her attention once again to the standing girl. “It clearly didn’t work.”

Ms. Ingram pointed at the students angrily, “You better shut all your mouths before I make you all go to the principal’s office.” Least to say, they ignored her.

Y/N, too embarrassed to move, stayed in her position with tears gathering up in her eyes. “Oh no! Careful! You’re going to make her angry and take revenge on us!” The same girl pretended to act scared and put the back of her hand on her forehead, causing more laughter to erupt from the class.

A loud screech from a chair made the laughter stop as Georgie stood up and approached the embarrassed and humiliated girl. Offering her a napkin from his pocket and smiling softly at her.

Y/N is surprised, to say the least. Her glossy eyes looked at him with confusion and shock. No one has ever been nice to her at school before. Heck, no one has been nice to her during her, period. With the exception of her family, of course, and some old neighbors of theirs, but that was it.

Georgie then looked at the class with fury in his eyes and said, “Anybody wants to say something else?” No one answered for a minute when Sheldon raised his hand. The older Cooper boy rolled his eyes at his little brother and said, “Not now, Sheldon.” The said boy looked flabbergasted at first before slowly lowering his hand down.

“Ms. Ingram, if it’s okay, I’d like to take Y/N out of the class for a moment," Georgie politely asked the teacher, who smiled sympathetically at the girl.

Sympathy. Not many like to be pitied, but this moment brings comfort to Y/N to think that somebody actually cared enough to feel sympathy for her.

“Go ahead, Georgie.” The teacher then turned her eyes back to the class. “While I will bring some students on a field trip to the principal’s office myself, how does that sound?” Ms. Ingram smiled wickedly at the now cowering students.

While Sheldon smiled excitedly, “Oh boy! The principal’s office.”

"Oh, you’re not going, Sheldon.”

“Aww”

・‥...━━━━━━☆☆━━━━━━...‥・

Y/N fiddled with her pendant nervously, occasionally looking at the boy pressing on the vending machine as she sat patiently on the bench nearby. The two of them are alone currently at the hall.

A hand with a drink was thrust in her direction, particularly in her line of vision. Y/N looked up and saw Georgie’s smiling face. She meekly took the drink from him and drank it, looking down at the bottle and staying quiet.

Georgie, knowing not to push her into talking, sat down beside her, with a good amount of space left between them, and drank from his own drink. His cool demeanor contrasts with the way his heart is beating. He took a big gulp from his drink to calm his rapid heart. Alas, it didn’t work at all.

Being with the girl he has been admiring all year and sitting beside her is doing something to him. He flinched a little when he heard her speak.

“Thank you.” Y/N smiled shyly at his direction, “from kind of saving me back there." She then lifted up the drink with her hand, “and for the free drink." She returned her attention back to the napkin that she'd been gripping, “and for the napkin. I promise I’ll give it back to you soon.”

Georgie shrugged coolly from beside her. “It’s all good; as long as there’s no harm done to my napkin, it’s all good.”

Y/N furrowed her brows together. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

The boy then widened his eyes, realizing that his words might be a little offensive given the situation that happened earlier. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean it like that." He was cut off when the girl laughed a little.

“I was just joking, Georgie.”

Georgie breathed a sigh of relief, shaking his head playfully at the girl who fully smiled at him. His smile, though, turned down a little. "So, how are you? With all that?”

Y/N shrugged her shoulders, hurt gracing her features. “Y'know, disappointed but not really surprised. It’s how people see me, my family.” She fiddled with her pendant once again, making Georgie’s attention turn to her hand. “I don’t mind being called a witch, y'know; it’s just—when people use the word in a bad way and call me and my family a freak just... hurts.”

She smiled bitterly. “It’s not like I’ll do something to them; it’s my beliefs, and I don’t need them to be friends with me; I just need them to be open-minded to it.” Y/N dropped the pendant, letting it hang around her neck, before releasing a big sigh.

Georgie looked at the girl softly, scooching closer to her, which the girl took notice of and said, “Well, I’ll be your first audience.” Y/N slowly smiled at that, nudging her shoulder to his. “I think paganism is an interesting belief; would you mind explaining it to me?” Georgie asked the girl, hopefully. In his case, it really is an interesting religion; he didn’t just say that to ‘get the girl’.

Y/N’s eyes sparkled at that before an idea came to her mind: “I’m actually having this small party at my house this Saturday; it’s my—“

“Birthday, yeah, I know.”

The girl blinked multiple times, snapping out of it. “I was wondering if you, I don’t know, would like to come?”

Georgie nodded his head without even letting the girl finish, “I would be honored to, ma’am.” He held her hand in his, raising it up to his lips and letting it touch the back of her hand softly.

・‥...━━━━━━☆☆━━━━━━...‥・

On Saturday, Georgie made sure to look presentable before going to Y/N’s place. And that means taking a long shower, shaving, spraying cologne, and putting on his best outfit. By that, it meant that he looked anywhere for his best outfit; there’s currently a mountain of clothes on his bed.

He styled his hair perfectly and looked for any creases on his shirt. Once he’s done, he exits his room and takes his car keys before going to the front door. “I’m going out for a bit!"

“Now, hold on a second there, mister.” Mary walked into the living room and stopped her son from further going out the door. “Where do you think you’re going, Georgie?”

Georgie released the door knob to properly face his mother and said, “A friend’s house.”

Mary smiled teasingly. "Oh, is this friend a girl?”

“Yes.”

Mary then dropped her smile after learning about this new bit of information. “Then why are you going to her house? Are her parents there? Is she your girlfriend? Who is she anyway? When am I going to meet her?”

Georgie sighed, rolling his eyes at his mother before answering all of her questions: “It’s her birthday. Yes. No, although I plan to court her someday. She’s Y/N L/N. I don’t know when she’s okay with it.” He looked at the watch on his wrist before facing the door once more. “I’ll get going; I don’t want to be late.”

After her son left the house, Mary was left shocked. “Did he just say L/N? Oh Lord, bless his heart and guide him through this.”

・‥...━━━━━━☆☆━━━━━━...‥・

Georgie wiped his hands and touched his hair to make sure it stayed put and not a strand was out of place. “You can do this,” he repeated to himself before knocking on the door.

The door opened up, revealing an older woman around her mid-40s. "Well, hello there, you must be Georgie.” She opened the door more to offer the teenager a handshake. “I’m Y/N’s mom; please come in, dear.”

Georgie shook her hand before entering the new home, a gift in his hand. It wasn’t really a big gift, and it made him nervous about whether she'd like it. The L/N’s house is a simple two-story house with a few plants inside and paintings hanging on the walls.

“Y/N! Dear, you have a visitor!”

“Coming!” And then she walked in the living room, with this simple blue summer dress and her hair done, with her pendant hanging around her neck. “Hi, Georgie. Thank you so much for coming.” Y/N walked over to the gawking teenager, his mouth left agape as he stuttered out a response.

“Hi—this gift... for you.” Georgie gave his gift to the girl. “I mean, this is my gift for you. Happy Birthday, Y/N." He nervously chuckled, scratching the back of his head. “It’s nothing much really, just a simple one. I hope you like it.”

Y/N took the gift and opened it, revealing a bracelet—an engraved bracelet with the runic letters spelling her name. “Oh my—Georgie, where did you buy this? I love it; thank you so much.” She hugged him, which left the boy more speechless than he ever was.

"Oh, it’s all good. I’m not sure about the spelling of the name, so if it’s wrong, I can fix it."

"Wait, wait, what do you mean fix it? You made this? ”

Georgie looked at the girl for a moment before shyly nodding his head. Their stare was broken by a flash, and the two of them looked to the side where they saw Y/N holding a camera in her hand. “I just ruined the moment, didn’t I?” She slowly put down the camera, smiling sheepishly at the pair. “Sorry.”

・‥...━━━━━━☆☆━━━━━━...‥・

“So what’s your plan for the future, Georgie?” Y/N’s dad asked the boy as they ate.

Georgie swallowed the food before answering, “I actually don’t know yet, sir, but I would love to have my own business someday.” He picked up a glass for him to drink and said, “To be honest, I’m not that great at school, not like my little brother, Sheldon, so I don’t plan on going to college, but I would like to build my own business.”

“A business, huh? Well, you can tell me how I’ll help you, son; I’ll sponsor you as long as I can.” The man smiled at the young boy who beamed at him. “But you have to prove to me that my help wouldn’t be futile.”

"Yes, sir, I won’t let you down.”

Y/N smiled at the two of them, but not until her father asked what religion Georgie is. The teenagers looked at each other first before the girl let Georgie answer.

“I’m actually Christian; my mother is religious and all that, but I am not a full believer," Georgie answered truthfully, hoping that his religion wouldn’t be a problem to him courting Y/N in the eyes of her family.

“Oh, it’s fine if you don’t fully believe it if it doesn’t feel right with you," Y/N’s mom said with the girl’s dad nodding his head along with her. “We, pagans, are different from each other. Like Y/N here, for example, she believes more in the Norse gods but worships them a bit differently than traditional worship.” The woman pointed to her daughter, who smiled shyly, “She’s considered to be an Eclectic Pagan.”

Georgie takes in the new information and says, “That’s cool. Do you guys like to recruit or something?"

This time it was Y/N who answered, "No, no, we do not ‘recruit’, we let people do it of their own free will. Pagans tend to believe in many gods and goddesses, while some believe only in one; other pagans can believe in your God if they choose to.”

“Woah, that’s really interesting.” Georgie’s mind was prepared to ask more questions to the family, who, by the way, are happy to answer them.

・‥...━━━━━━☆☆━━━━━━...‥・

“Thank you for your hospitality, Mr. and Mrs. L/N," Georgie said as they walked him to the front door as nightfall had already come.

Y/N’s mom moved to hug the boy and say, “No, thank you for being a part of my daughter’s birthday.” She pulled away with teary eyes, then whispered, “You have my blessing, by the way, to court her.” The woman winked at the stunned teenager.

“I won’t hurt her, I promise.”

“Oh Georgie, pain is part of love; as long as you treat her like she deserves and have proper communication with her, all is well.” Y/N’s mom caressed his cheek before pulling away to let him and her husband talk.

“Remember what we talked about, son. I’ll help you as long as you help yourself too.” Y/N’s father shook hands with the Cooper boy, who nodded his head at him eagerly. “I trust you won’t screw this up, both the business and my daughter.” He raised a brow to the teenager, who just let out a chuckle nervously.

“Dad!”

“I’m only joking, sweetie, right, Georgie?”

"Yes, sir, of course.”

The parents walked off to give the two some privacy. The teenagers walked outside as they stood there on the porch, with the only light being the porchlight. “I’d like to thank you for coming to my birthday and celebrating it with me. And for the gift. And for everything else.”

Georgie just smiled and nodded his head behind her. “I’m actually glad that your parents liked me.”

“Of course they would; what’s not to like?” Y/N unconsciously said before gasping when she realized what she said.

The boy started grinning boyishly, “Well, I best be on my way, ma’am.” He lifted her hand once again and kissed the back of it; he put it down but was still not releasing it. “Happy Birthday again, Y/N.”

𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑’𝐒 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄

I tried to make this as accurate as possible. Clearly, I am not a Pagan, but I tried to research and study more about the religion but please, correct me if I’m wrong.

How about a part 2? Where the Cooper Family met Pagan!reader? Let me know what you think about that.

[dustydaydreamer]

My brother is going to nationals!!!

If his team can get funding.

I'm super proud of him and his teammates who have worked insanely hard this year to qualify. By the end of his freshman year, my brother was running a mile in just under five minutes, and this year he shaved twenty whole seconds off his personal record. In the relay race that qualified for nationals, he has been running 400 meters in less than a minute.

The thing about a relay race is you really need four fast runners to make it work. The team that qualified for nationals has two seniors, a junior, and my brother, a sophomore, and so it is unlikely that he will get another chance to go to nationals in his high school career, cause the fastest people are graduating and there aren't any promising freshmen. This is also the only chance the seniors will get, because the highschool has never been to nationals before and they're graduating.

I, and everyone on his team, would be ecstatic if anyone could donate. We've gotten to over $2000, but his coach says the high school is very unlikely to chip in at all if we don't get to $8000 after the big fundraiser this week, which would make going a lot more difficult. I don't expect to have any actual fundraising power on this platform, but I need to at least try. He's so excited about this opportunity and I don't want to see what happens to his enthusiasm and passion for running if he doesn't make it, because he has been putting every ounce of his soul into this team.

Here's the link!

[countrymusiclover]

5 - The Birthday Surprise

Part 6

It’s About Time

Mr. Cooper parked the truck and let me and Georgie get out at the tire shop. Georgie had helped fix a part in his truck and now he had started working there. I dropped my backpack on the nearest work table and hoisted myself up to sit down to watch. “So you’re saying he's got a tire gift?”

“Yes ma'am. Just watch.” Hershel nodded standing by me.

George Sr entered the tire shop and his neighbor handed him a beer. “Let’s see what you can do.”

“Okay.” Georgie nodded, slipping on some overalls and picking up one of the torn tires and laying it down on the table across from me. He basically laid on the tire rubbing his hands over the surfaces whispering, until he lifted his finger off a certain spot. “Tell me where it hurts baby…got ya.”

“Did you actually find it?” Jumping off the table I parted my mouth open, surprised.

Georgie lifted his finger off the spot a few more times showing me. “Yep.”

“That’s incredible.” I couldn't believe it that he made it look so easy.

George Sr looks at his neighbor. “I've got goosebumps.”

“I told ya he's got the gift.” Hershel nodded, taking a drink of his beer. “So are we all good with him still working here?”

George Sr finished his beer. “Yeah. His mom just said if his grades slip then he can't anymore.”

“Would you want to work with me too?” Georgie looks in my direction with such excitement.

I paused in thought. “Well that'd be up to Hershel. Plus I was thinking of working at this sporting goods store. Dales I think it's called.”

“There's an offer there if you change your mind.” Hershel said throwing the empty beer bottles in the trash can.

Georgie shifts his eyes to the wall cloak. “Oh hey it's almost time. Dad, we better go.”

“Go where?” I ask my best friend.

Georgie takes my hand in his dragging me back to the truck with his father thanking the man. “You'll see when we get there.” The three of us climbed in the truck and drove out almost to the edge of the town line. There was this area just past the Medford town sign that we pulled into.

“Georgie, why are we here?” I asked him after he had helped me out of the truck.

We had snuck out there with a few of our friends the year before we were going into high school. It had become our personal camp area, especially since Sheldon didn't care for the outdoors. “You'll see. Come on.” He tugged me by the hand around the corner and down a small dirt trail until we came to a clearing of trees and I saw our friend group all waiting for us.

Ryker, Marlowe, Hannah and Ashley all cheered. “Happy birthday.”

“Georgie!” I throw my arms around his neck hugging him as a big thank you.

He hugs me back looking at his dad who brought in our bags from the truck. “I'll pick you all up tomorrow morning. Happy birthday Y/n.”

“Thanks, Mr. Cooper.” I smiled and he left in his truck leaving us teenagers by ourselves.

Hannah came over removing me from Georgie’s grasp and over to the cooler’s they had set up by some bag lawn chairs. “I was able to snag some stuff without my dad finding out. Happy birthday.” She hands me a wine cooler.

“Thanks, Hannah. Don’t go getting arrested now.” Her father was the local police officer of our town so we would be in deep trouble if he found out.

Ashley nudged my arm coming over to us. “Stop worrying. Hannah and I are great liars.” Ashley and I had first met in Kindergarten after she wanted to play legos with me and we have been close ever since. Not as much as me and Georgie but pretty close.

Taking a drink from the bottle Hannah peaked her head over my shoulder where the boys had gone over on their own to talk like we had done. “What do ya think they’re talking about?”

“Football.” I answered her.

Ashley added on. “Annoyed, we are already gossiping over here.”

“I’ve got one better. Our bros are interrogating Georgie to finally ask the birthday girl out.” Hannah did a thumbs down and made a wrong answer buzzing sound.

Ashley’s face lit up. “Oooh yes.”

“Are you two still on that fairytale concept we joked about in fifth grade.” I scolded them feeling my face begin to turn red so I took a longer drink.

Hannah aims her wine cooler bottle at me. “It’s not a joke, Y/n. You and Georgie are falling all over each other making it so obvious.”

“No we are not.” I fought back.

Ashley finished her drink, sending me a smirk. “You totally are.”

“I don't know what you are talking about.” I denied what my friends were saying.

Hannah taunts me. “What if I told you that he was dating Veronica and didn't tell you?”

“He wouldn't dare!” Stomping my feet on the ground my voice raised in anger.

Hannah waved her fingers in my face. “That proves it.”

“You totally like him!” Hannah and Ashley squealed at the top of their lungs, jumping around me in a circle.

Ryker came over to the three of us, Georgie and Marlowe following suit in his steps. “So birthday girl, you down for some football?”

“I'm a Texas girl. What kind of question is that? Of course I'm down. After drinks and pizza though, deal.”

Ryker stuck out his fist and I bumped mine with his. “Deal.”

Our group of six got settled on some lawn chairs around a fire that Marlowe got started since his parents had taught him the most about wilderness survival.

Leaning back in my chair I opened another drink Georgie was sitting beside me and we were just enjoying the sounds of nature. I glance over to him with the corner of my eye noticing that he was staring at me and I just now had noticed he had been. “What ya looking at me for, Cooper?”

“I got ya something for your birthday.” He reached inside his jacket pocket, pulling out something.

I trailed off until he held it up in the firelight. “Georgie, you didn’t have to get me anything. The surprise was enough - oh wow it's beautiful.” He turned out to be holding up a necklace that was a Locket which had a picture of us when we were really little all hugging up on each other.

Georgie nervously smiled. “So you like it?”

“I love it. Thank you.” I got up from my chair flinging my arms around his neck hugging him.

He wrapped his arms around my waist tugging me down to sit on his lap. We held onto the other for a few minutes until he mumbled into my hair and I drew back to look him in the face. “Happy birthday, darling.” Biting my lip I soon realized that we were extremely physical close to each other, which normally wouldn’t have been a problem if we weren’t in a very romantic setting sitting together around the fire and the rest of our friends were over by the coolers with drinks and snacks away from the burning fire.

“Georgie…” I mumbled his name slowly leaning down and he to my surprise leaned up looking like he was going to kiss me.

But the moment was short lived when Marlowe came running over to us. “Hey, you guys ready to play footbal”

“Yeah sure.” Georgie and I separated and I scrambled off his lap, catching sight of us both blushing. Yet I brushed it off going over to hang out with our friends with the idea still in the back of my mind that I almost kissed my best friend.

Comments really appreciated ❤️

Tags just ask - @lover-of-books-and-tea @bvbwestfall @bubble-blu @liesanddreams @bethanymccauley @skeletonontheroad

[offender42085]

Post 1154

Jeffrey Conroy, New York inmate 10A2652, born 1991, incarceration intake May 2010 at age 19, scheduled for parole consideration April 2030, with full release November 2033

Manslaughter, Gang Assault, Conspiracy, Attempted Assault as a Hate Crime

In May 2010, the white Long Island teenager convicted of killing a Hispanic immigrant in a 2008 hate crime attack in Patchogue was sentenced to 25 years in prison in a hearing that ended with the teenager’s father leaving the courtroom in a tearful rage.

The teenager, Jeffrey Conroy, then 19, stood next to his lawyer in State Supreme Court as Justice Robert W. Doyle told a courtroom filled with relatives, friends and supporters of both Mr. Conroy and the immigrant, Marcelo Lucero, that the proof of Mr. Conroy’s guilt was “overwhelming” and that he was convicted of “senseless and brutal crimes.”

The 25-year sentence was the longest possible for first-degree manslaughter as a hate crime, the most serious charge Mr. Conroy faced. Moments after the judge spoke, Mr. Conroy’s father, Robert Conroy, 49, a quiet presence in the courtroom during the nearly seven-week trial, stood up and, cursing, shouted that his son was only 17 at the time.

“This is mercy, for crying out loud?” he yelled from the back of the courtroom as he made his way outside surrounded by court officers, who restrained him briefly after he punched the doors or a wall.

Mr. Conroy was found guilty on April 19, 2010 of attacking Mr. Lucero in a train station parking lot in November 2008, one of a series of assaults that prosecutors said Mr. Conroy and six friends carried out as part of an activity that the young men described as “beaner-hopping” or “Mexican-hopping.”

Shortly before the sentencing was announced, Jeffrey Conroy seemed to apologize as he faced the judge. “I’m really sorry for what happened to Mr. Lucero,” he said, adding that every day he wished it never happened.

The defense lawyer, William Keahon, read aloud several of the nearly 100 letters that had been sent to the court from Mr. Conroy’s supporters — coaches, neighbors, and adult and teenage friends who asked for leniency. The letters described Mr. Conroy not as hate filled, but as someone who served as a volunteer mentor and coach to football and lacrosse players.

The letters also noted how Mr. Conroy had numerous Hispanic friends, including the woman he has said he plans to marry, Pamela Suarez, who is Bolivian.

But those sentiments were countered by the emotional words of the victim’s brother and sister.

Mr. Lucero’s younger brother, Joselo Lucero, 35, said that his brother became his role model and father figure after their father died when Joselo was 6. His brother’s death left him distraught, with nightmares and even thoughts of suicide, he said.

He spoke of justice for “the invisibles,” whom he described as the legal and illegal immigrants who come to the United States seeking a better life. “I don’t want this hate to continue,” he said.

Mr. Lucero, 37, a worker at a dry cleaning shop who had come from Gualaceo, Ecuador, was walking with a friend to another friend’s house on the night of the attack. They were surrounded by the seven young men, all students at Patchogue-Medford High School at the time, the authorities said.

After deliberating for four days, a jury found Mr. Conroy guilty of first-degree manslaughter as a hate crime and other charges, in connection with Mr. Lucero’s death. He was also found guilty of attempted assaults on three other Hispanic men. On the manslaughter charge, Mr. Conroy faced a minimum of 8 years and a maximum of 25 years.

Mr. Conroy received the maximum sentence on all the charges against him, but because the sentences are to run concurrently, and because he has already served nearly two years and will receive credit for good behavior, he could actually serve 18 years, his lawyer said.

4f

[shamyfanficfeed]

Together Forever

by roseus_eli Medford, Texas 1995. Sheldon was almost the average teenager. Only because his parents didn't let him skip middle school and high school. He had to navigate his way through middle school with his twin sister Missy. A bespectacled girl moved a few blocks away from their house. Amy Farrah Fowler. She was friends with his twin sister. And he couldn't understand why. Words: 2611, Chapters: 2/?, Language: English * Fandoms: The Big Bang Theory (TV), Young Sheldon (TV) * Rating: Teen And Up Audiences * Warnings: No Archive Warnings Apply * Categories: F/M * Characters: Sheldon Cooper, Amy Farrah Fowler, Missy Cooper, Constance "Connie" Tucker, Mary Cooper (Young Sheldon), George Cooper Sr. * Relationships: Sheldon Cooper/Amy Farrah Fowler * Additional Tags: Childhood Friends, Friends to Lovers, Love Confessions, I Wrote This Instead of Sleeping http://dlvr.it/TCPYyz

[news4dzhozhar]

For Former Friend of Boston Marathon Bomber, a Burden of Shame and Betrayal

**Of all the names of friends from back then, does anyone remember ever hearing this guys name before? I don't.**

BOSTON — Last year, nearly a decade after the bombing at the Boston Marathon, Youssef Eddafali wrote a letter. It had been years in the making, and he agonized over every word, but the hardest thing to figure out was the salutation.

Mr. Eddafali, 29, still was not sure who he was writing to. Was it the friend he had once thought of as a brother, whose journey as a young Muslim immigrant had seemed to mirror his own? Or the calculating killer who revealed himself on April 15, 2013, when he murdered and maimed innocent people in the name of the faith they both shared?

In the end, Mr. Eddafali concluded it was both, so he split his missive into two parts. The first he wrote to “the old Jahar,” the boy he had known. The second letter was written to a stranger. He addressed it to “The Monster.”

“Your betrayal broke me,” Mr. Eddafali wrote to Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, his former friend, who was sentenced to death in 2015 for orchestrating the bombing at the marathon finish line with his older brother, Tamerlan. Tamerlan Tsarnaev died in a gun battle with police four days later; Dzhokhar Tsarnaev remains on death row.

Three people were killed by the bombs loaded with nails and ball bearings that the brothers had made: Lingzi Lu, 23, a graduate student from China; Krystle Campbell, 29, a restaurant manager from Medford, Mass.; and Martin Richard, an 8-year-old from Boston. Seventeen lost limbs and more than 250 were injured in the bombing, which led to a dramatic four-day manhunt that shut down the city; the brothers also shot and killed a campus police officer. An unknown number of spectators, runners and emergency responders still experience emotional trauma from that day.

Another group of people, Mr. Eddafali among them, were affected in a different way: They had known Dzhokhar Tsarnaev and considered him a friend. Many were young people in high school or college, on the cusp of adulthood, when the bombing abruptly turned the world they knew into a frightening and unfamiliar place.

Ten years later, as a changed city pauses to honor those who died and reflect on the passage of time, some of those who knew the Tsarnaev brothers still struggle to define how the experience changed them. A decade after they were plunged into guilt, anger, betrayal and shame, they know one thing: There will be no reconciling their before and after, no understanding how or why.

It is a dissonance felt in the wake of every mass shooting, by those who discover to their horror that they know the killer.

“I watch what people say every time it happens — that they had no idea — and I recognize it, because I’ve been there, too,” said Larry Aaronson, 82, who lived on the same street as the Tsarnaev family and taught history at Cambridge Rindge and Latin High School, where Mr. Eddafali and Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, known as “Jahar,” graduated.

There is little research examining the psychic toll on people who had been close to those who kill. The marginality of their position — close to tragedy but connected to its source — can be alienating, stranding them on the outside as their communities gather to heal, and making it feel unsafe or insensitive to discuss their own baffling experience. A dozen people who knew Dzhokhar Tsarnaev declined to speak to a reporter even a decade later, or did not respond to requests for interviews.

“There’s an element of guilt by association, and a weird dichotomy, because the person they knew doesn’t exist anymore,” said Jaclyn Schildkraut, a researcher who has studied mass shootings and is executive director of the Regional Gun Violence Research Consortium at the Rockefeller Institute of Government.

The experience “is like being knocked into a parallel universe,” she added, “and you can’t get back.”

For friends who were also Muslim immigrants, the consequences have been even more jarring.

Mr. Eddafali and his family had immigrated to the United States from Morocco in 1999, when he was 6, and he spent years reconciling his Muslim faith with his emerging American identity. A standout basketball player in high school, the boy who had endured ethnic slurs and playground bullying after the Sept. 11 attacks now proudly heard classmates chant his name at games. He found he could navigate fluidly among students of different races and backgrounds, an interlude that felt magical.

“When you found the pocket,” he said of that time, “it was bliss.”

Beside him in the pocket was his friend Jahar, the sociable wrestling team captain who had come to the United States with his family from Kyrgyzstan in 2002, when he was 8, and also knew the challenge and the triumph of acceptance. They had met in middle school, when both were becoming chameleons, Mr. Eddafali said, honoring their families’ Muslim faith at home while maintaining separate lives as fully American teenagers.

They trained as lifeguards together, worked together at the Harvard pool, partied with their “boys” beside the Charles River. Both were well-liked, athletic, bound for college, examples of the immigrant success story that progressive, multicultural Cambridge loves to tell.

Until all at once, one of them wasn’t.

So unfathomable was Dzhokhar Tsarnaev’s violent turn that many of his friends did not believe it, even when photos of the brothers flooded the media a few days after the bombing.

Small moments in their shared history made the news seem inconceivable. The lunches he bought classmates who were short on cash. The pep talks he gave teammates when they hit the wall. Even in college, where he failed classes and sold drugs, Jahar still encouraged friends, they said, urging one to develop her talent for drawing in art school.

For Mr. Eddafali, seeing his friend’s face on TV felt like “10,000 volts of electricity coursing through my body,” he later wrote. He felt unmoored by thoughts of the dead and wounded, and, as the truth sank in, by thoughts of Jahar packing a backpack with explosives and dropping it discreetly on a sidewalk packed with families.

“My trust in other people was shattered,” Mr. Eddafali said, “and I couldn’t trust myself, for allowing a sociopath to get so close.”

In Cambridge, where the diverse, ambitious public high school fuels countless American dreams, residents recoiled from the revelation of homegrown terrorism. After Mr. Aaronson, still in shock, spoke to reporters about the seemingly sweet-natured teenager he had known, the retired teacher said he felt stung by a disapproving backlash and feared he had sacrificed his reputation.

“I felt like a pariah,” he said. “People wanted to repress it and forget it, and I thought we needed to talk about it. I had such a deep sense of betrayal.”

If much of the city could choose to set aside its tie to the brothers, Mr. Eddafali did not have that luxury. The F.B.I. soon came to interrogate the stunned 19-year-old about his knowledge of the bombing. His phone was tapped and his movements tracked, he said. Across Boston and Cambridge, other Muslims also faced renewed suspicion and scrutiny, and continuing surveillance, according to advocates.

Mr. Eddafali resumed his studies at Bentley University, outside Boston, in the fall of 2013, but federal investigators came to question him again in November. He appealed to his professors for empathy and flexibility, he said, but failed his exams when neither was granted. His G.P.A. plummeted, and he dropped out of college, amplifying his feelings of shame.

Back at home he spiraled lower, plagued by depression, anxiety, insomnia, stomach ulcers. Constantly worried that others might find him suspicious or threatening, he stopped wearing backpacks and baseball caps, worn by the Tsarnaevs on the day of the bombing, to minimize any resemblance. He felt just as lost as he had at 7, when he could not find a path to self-acceptance after 9/11.

“The separation between me and the rest of the world was chasmic,” he said.

Years later, he expressed his anger at that damage in his letter to the imprisoned Tsarnaev: “Your actions scorched the blooming trust between Muslims and non-Muslims a decade after 9/11,” he wrote. “You grabbed a branding iron and scarred each and every one of us again.”

Mr. Eddafali said he considered suicide, but in time, sought help instead, finding solace in therapy, prayer and meditation, and in taking better care of himself. Someone suggested he try keeping a journal.

“Your betrayal broke me,” Mr. Eddafali wrote to the convicted killer he once considered a brother.

As soon as he began to write, in 2015, he had glimpses of clarity, he said, moments when his feelings did not overwhelm him. It was as if he had been “walking around with an immense weight, and I didn’t know how to put it down.” He filled dozens of pages, energized by a new goal: to tell a different story about being Muslim, in hopes of rebuilding empathy and trust.

“When I put it outside of me, I could observe it in nuanced ways,” he said. “I could release it and go on with my life.”

Others have been moved by a similar impulse. John “Derf” Backderf, a graphic novelist who wrote a book about his high school friendship with Jeffrey Dahmer, who became a notorious serial killer, said he felt driven to explain the staggering impact the revelation of Dahmer’s crimes had on him.

“With the snap of a finger, my entire personal history was rewritten. You can’t imagine how disorienting that was,” Mr. Backderf wrote in an email. “What had been a silly and (mostly) fun high school experience was now dark and disturbing.”

Now staying with friends in southeast Asia while finishing the final chapters of his memoir, Mr. Eddafali has a title, a cover and a Kickstarter campaign to fund its production.

Finally looking ahead after a decade, he said he wants to go back to college, finish his degree and pursue a career as a filmmaker. “I had to get back to the person I was,” he said. “But now I’m ready, because now I have a voice.”

He mailed his letter to his former friend last year as another step in his own healing, with no hope of receiving a reply. The convicted bomber has been held since 2015 at a “supermax” federal prison near Florence, Colo., and is currently appealing his death sentence for a second time.

Asked if he would have become a writer if he had never known Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, Mr. Eddafali grew animated. “No, no, no; hell, no,” he said, eyes wide. “I wouldn’t wish that on my worst enemy.”

Like Mr. Backderf, who said he still switches between his original high school memories and the darker “rewritten history,” Mr. Eddafali has come to terms with his own parallel realities.

Tracey Gordon, a teacher in Cambridge who remembers Dzhokhar Tsarnaev as a model student in her fifth- and sixth-grade classrooms, put it simply.

“Both things are true,” she said. “We want everything to make sense, and it just can’t.”

[justforbooks]

It is easily arguable that the most significant technique change in athletics was high jumping’s “Fosbury flop”. Dick Fosbury, who has died aged 76, invented the eponymous unconventional way of getting over the bar. In the words of the American coach John Tansley, “he literally turned his event upside down”, but besides the sport, the flop’s impact as a paradigm change was even more remarkable.

For millennia, humans had proceeded over obstacles in their paths one foot at a time. Even as the sport of athletics was refined, high jumpers basically followed the techniques of hurdlers and steeplechasers without considering that they, unlike those runners, did not have to continue to propel themselves forward after their jumps. The early “scissors” technique was essentially a hurdle of the bar; the later techniques, the “straddle” and various rolls, looked the way their names implied. High jumpers preceding Fosbury were tall but strong, like sprinters, in the upper body.

The “flop” – which you can see hints of in the twisting rolls of great jumpers who preceded him, Charlie Dumas, John Thomas or Valeriy Brumel – did not come to Fosbury in a “eureka” moment, but as he tinkered with his traditional technique while still at high school in the early 1960s. He found himself moving his body more and more sideways, until finally he was jumping with his back to the bar, body parallel to the ground, and legs perpendicular to it. As his head and torso went over, he would kick his legs high, landing face up on his shoulders. The jump began to describe a parabola.

Despite his coach’s scepticism, the results were evident, and when a photo in the local paper was captioned “Fosbury Flops Over Bar”, the jump had acquired its name. Finishing second in the 1965 Oregon state championships as a senior, he jumped 6ft 5 ½in, fractionally under two metres.

There were others out there developing their own versions, notably the Canadian Debbie Brill, who, aged 17, won Commonwealth Games gold in 1970 at 17 using the “Brill bend”. Those innovators were aided by a small but significant development: high jumpers had always landed, on their feet or on hands and one foot, in pits of sand or sawdust; during the 60s, mats filled with foam rubber started to replace pits. As Dumas, who in 1956 became the first man to clear 7ft, explained in a 1986 interview, “I couldn’t have mastered [the flop]; I just didn’t have the range of motion. On the other hand, the floppers could never have jumped 7ft 8 or 9in and landed in sawdust pits like we did; they could break their necks.”

At Oregon State University, Fosbury’s college coach tried to switch him back to the “western roll”, but agreed to let him use the flop in his freshman team meets. In 1967, he broke the school record with a 6ft 10in (2.08m) leap; all talk of western rolls disappeared. The next year, he won his first of two national college titles clearing 7ft 2½in, then won the US Olympic trials in Los Angeles. But Olympic officials, afraid the flop would not work in the altitude of Mexico City, where the summer 1968 Games were to be held, scheduled a second trial above sea level. He scraped in as the third of three qualifiers, all clearing 2.20m, but Fosbury having more misses.

In Mexico City, he won his gold medal, the only jumper to clear an Olympic record 2.24m after a gruelling competition; he failed at three attempts to break Brumel’s world record of 2.28m. The Olympics introduced the Fosbury flop to the world, and showed fellow jumpers film of the style; previously most had seen only photos. By the time Munich staged the games in 1972, 28 of the 40 jumpers were “flopping”.

Born in Portland, Oregon, Fosbury grew up in Medford, where his father, Doug, drove a lumber truck and his mother, Helen (nee Childers), worked as a secretary and was a concert pianist. Fosbury grew tall (6ft 4in) but was not strong, weighing only around 13 stone throughout his career, and had been cut from his high school’s basketball and gridiron teams before finding his way into athletics.

He never equalled his performance in Mexico City and never broke the world record; Brumel’s mark fell to the American Pat Matzdorf, who cleared 2.29m, still using the straddle. But in 1973, Dwight Stones, who had watched Fosbury in Mexico as a 14-year-old, became the first world record-holding flopper at 2.30m, and virtually all jumpers since have flopped. The current world record is 2.45m, set by Cuba’s Javier Sotomayor in 1993.

Following Mexico, Fosbury returned to Oregon State, won his second NCAA title in 1969 and finished his civil engineering degree while competing on the amateur circuit. As more athletic jumpers adopted his technique, he failed to make the US team for the 1972 Munich Olympics. He joined the short-lived professional international track association tour in 1973, then retired and moved to Ketcham, Idaho, and set up a firm specialising in bike and running trails. He became a motivational speaker and author of books such as The Fosbury Flop: A New Philosophy for Success, and Leap of Faith: Overcoming Obstacles and Achieving Success.

He was also a vice-president of the US Olympic Association, served as a county commissioner, and ran unsuccessfully for Congress as a Democrat in conservative Idaho.

In 2008 he was diagnosed with lymphoma in his lower vertebrae; after spinal surgery and chemotherapy, the cancer went into remission. From 2011 to 2019 he served as president of the non-profit World Olympians Association.

With his third wife, Robin Tomasi, whom he met in a swing-dancing class, Fosbury ran a horse farm in Bellevue, Idaho. His first marriage, to Janet Jarvis, and second, to Karen Thomas, both ended in divorce; he is survived by Robin, by a son, Erich, and two stepdaughters, Stephanie and Kristen, from his second marriage, and by a sister, Gail.

🔔 Dick (Richard Douglas) Fosbury, high jumper, born 6 March 1947; died 12 March 2023

Daily inspiration. Discover more photos at http://justforbooks.tumblr.com

[nurseeden]

Leading Nursing Programs in MA: Your Guide to Pursuing a Rewarding Career in Healthcare

Top Nursing Programs in MA: Your ⁢Guide to Pursuing a Rewarding Career in Healthcare

If you’re considering a career in nursing, Massachusetts (MA) offers some of ⁢the most‌ reputable nursing programs in‍ the country. From degree options to hands-on training, you’ll find a variety of paths to a fulfilling​ career. this guide will​ help you navigate through the top nursing‍ programs in MA,⁣ provide practical tips, and explore the benefits of becoming a nurse.

Why ‍Choose Nursing⁣ in Massachusetts?

Nursing⁢ is more than just a profession; it’s a passion for helping others. Here are some compelling reasons to pursue a nursing degree in ⁣Massachusetts:

High demand: The ⁢healthcare industry in MA is continuously growing,‍ and there’s a ‌strong ⁢need ​for qualified nurses.

Competitive Salaries: Nurses ⁤in MA⁢ typically earn higher salaries compared‌ to many other states.

Networking Opportunities: With numerous hospitals and health networks, you can build a robust ⁤professional network.

Top-Notch Education: Massachusetts is home to some of the best nursing schools ⁣in the nation,⁢ offering diverse programs.

Top​ Nursing Programs in Massachusetts

Here’s a look at some of the top nursing programs in MA that can help jumpstart your healthcare⁤ career:

school Name

Degree ‌Offered

Program ‍Duration

Location

Boston College

Bachelor of Science ⁤in Nursing (BSN)

4 Years

Chestnut Hill

University⁤ of Massachusetts Amherst

Accelerated BSN

12-16 Months

amherst

Tufts University

Master ⁣of Science​ in Nursing (MSN)

2 Years

Medford

Northeastern University

Doctor of Nursing practice (DNP)

3-4 Years

Boston

Types ‍of Nursing Degrees

Massachusetts universities offer various nursing degrees tailored to meet the⁢ demands of the ⁣healthcare ⁣industry:

Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN): A ⁤two-year degree designed to prepare students for entry-level nursing positions.

Bachelor‌ of Science in‌ Nursing (BSN): A four-year program that includes clinical practice and higher-level nursing theory.

Master of Science in Nursing (MSN): A graduate degree focusing on​ specialized areas of nursing.

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP): A terminal degree‌ aimed at those looking to advance ​to leadership roles in nursing.

Benefits ⁢of Pursuing a Nursing Career

Choosing nursing ⁣as a profession comes with numerous benefits:

Job Security: The ‍nursing profession is expected to grow,‍ resulting in numerous job opportunities.

Versatility: Nurses can work in various settings, ⁤including hospitals, schools, and private practices.

Impact on Lives: Nurses play a critical role in patient care and can make a difference in people’s lives.

Continuous‌ Learning: The ⁣healthcare field constantly evolves, providing endless opportunities for ​learning⁤ and advancement.

Practical Tips‌ for Aspiring Nurses

As you​ embark on your nursing⁤ journey, keep these⁣ practical tips in mind:

Research Programs: Investigate diffrent nursing ‍programs to find the one that suits your career goals.

Visit Campuses: If possible, visit campuses to get a feel ⁢for the environment and resources available.

Connect with Alumni: Reach out to program alumni for insights ⁢and advice on making the most of⁢ your education.

Prepare for Clinicals: Clinical rotations are a vital aspect of nursing education; be proactive in your readiness.

Case Study:‍ A‌ First-Hand Experience

Meet Sarah, a graduate of the University of Massachusetts Amherst’s accelerated BSN program. After completing her degree in just 15 months, she secured a ‍position in a local hospital’s emergency department. ⁢Sarah shares, “The rigorous training and supportive faculty made a huge difference. I felt confident and prepared for real-world challenges.”​ This highlights the importance of choosing a program that provides ⁣both education and hands-on experience.

Conclusion

Choosing a⁢ nursing program is a‌ critical step toward⁢ embarking on a rewarding healthcare career. With so many ‌excellent‍ options available in Massachusetts, you’re sure to find a program that aligns with your goals. By pursuing a nursing degree, you not only open up opportunities for⁤ personal and‌ professional growth but also position yourself to make a ‍lasting‌ impact⁤ in the ⁤lives of others. Start your journey today, and take the first step toward ⁣a fulfilling nursing career in ‌the heart of Massachusetts!

https://nursingcertificationcourses.com/leading-nursing-programs-in-ma-your-guide-to-pursuing-a-rewarding-career-in-healthcare/

[oneteamrealestateagents]

Best Places to Live in South Jersey

South Jersey is emerging as one of the most popular areas for relocation. It’s a region packed with scenic landscapes and has a treasure trove of idyllic towns waiting to be explored. But how do you decide which town is right for you? Read on to learn the best towns in South Jersey to consider and what makes each of them unique.

Best Towns in South Jersey

Haddonfield

Haddonfield is one of New Jersey’s oldest towns, with roots tracing back to the 1700s. The beautifully preserved colonial Victorian homes of the town offer a sense of timelessness that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Haddonfield is a clear magnet for families with community-centered events, like the annual Fall Festival. Kings Highway, the heartland of the town, is layered with many boutiques, shops, cafes, etc. Plus, Haddonfield has a close proximity to Philadelphia. That makes it an idle choice for those who wish to enjoy suburban peace without sacrificing an urban life. 

Cinnaminson

Located along the Delaware River in Burlington County, Cinnaminson is a great example of the perfect combination between scenic beauty and suburban comforts. Families love living here due to the popular parks like the Wood Park and so on. 

What makes Cinnaminson way better is its peaceful atmosphere. Yet, you can enjoy the urban convenience as Philadelphia is just a 20-minute drive away from the location.

Cherry Hill

Cherry Hill is the largest town in South Jersey. Located along major highways like I-295 and Route 70, it offers easy access to both Philadelphia and the Jersey Shore. So, the region is abundant with many amenities, from the popular Cherry Hill Mall to the Garden State Discovery Museum. You will never run out of things to do.

The town’s public schools are highly rated, especially Cherry Hill East. The educational system strikes a perfect balance between academic performance and extracurricular activities. Above all, Cherry Hill even has a reputation for being a welcoming community for people from all backgrounds.

Delran

Delran is one of the fewest towns in South Jersey that offers a strong community sense to the newcomers. The town also hosts events like Delran Night Out and holiday parades, which bring the community together.

As it is located near Rancocas Creek, the town has waterfront access. Therefore, it is a good match for those who enjoy activities such as kayaking, fishing, and so on. Still, the city is an affordable option for homebuyers. 

Moorestown

If you are preferring more luxurious living standards, Moorestown could be a good choice. It is consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in New Jersey. The tight-knit community feel makes the place stand out from other areas.

Another thing that makes the town unique is its ban on liquor stores. So, you can expect a more quiet and family-oriented environment. Its downtown area, centered on Main Street, is a mix of upscale shop establishments. Even though the real estate prices of Moorestown are a bit higher, the town’s high-quality living standards make it a worthwhile investment.

Haddon Heights

Haddon Heights is like stepping into a postcard. Its streets are lined with beautifully maintained colonial homes. There’s always some events like concerts and festivals happening to bring residents together. So, you can expect a more active, community-driven life over there. At the same time, you need not sacrifice your professional life as major city centers like Philadelphia are just 10 kilometers away.

Maple Shade

Maple Shade may be a small yet an attractive destination for those who seek relocation. If you are a first-time homebuyer looking for a more affordable option, this town could be your perfect pick. You need not even compensate for the amenities as it is situated just minutes from major highways like Route 38 and I-295.

Medford

Medford is a town that feels as if it was built specifically for outdoor enthusiasts. It is surrounded by the natural beauty of the Pine Barrens. You can explore plenty of options for hiking and kayaking. That’s not the end; you can even enjoy various events like the Medford Art, Wine, and Music Festival.

Collingswood

Collingswood is a Camden County town that is well-known for its dining culture that draws foodies from all over the world. Haddon Avenue, the main thoroughfare, is lined with award-winning restaurants. Everything, right from Italian to Cuban cuisine, is offered. No wonder why the area has become a hub for youth, especially foodies. The close proximity to Philadelphia is also an attractive factor.

The town even hosts annual events like the May Fair and Book Festival. All these events attract thousands of visitors to the area. The weekly farmers’ market is yet another major highlight.  

Marlton

Marlton, part of Evesham Township in Burlington County, offers the best suburban living with easy access to nature. The Black Run Preserve in the town gives residents plenty of opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.

The town’s commercial district is yet another highlight— The Promenade at Sagemore. It is really a major shopping hub attraction with many high-end retail shops and top-notch dining options. 

If you are professional looking for work in major cities like Philadelphia, Marlton is a great option for residence. The town offers close proximity to major highways like Route 73 and the New Jersey Turnpike, for an easy daily journey. 

Mount Laurel

Mount Laurel is the sub-urban hub of South Jersey that offers a close proximity to every amenity that you need. It’s close to major highways like the New Jersey Turnpike and I-295. So, if you’re a professional tired of the to-and-fro traveling everyday, this town is a pretty nice pick. You can even enjoy the Laurel Acres Park— a local favorite with walking trails. 

Riverton

Riverton is one of South Jersey’s most charming towns. It was established in the 19th century as a summer resort for Philadelphia’s elites. Even now, that legacy could be seen in the beautiful Victorian architecture. Moreover, the town’s aesthetic streets and friendly atmosphere make it a good choice for those who prefer a quieter pace of life.  Content Source: https://homesbyoneteam.com/blog/2024/11/21/best-places-to-live-in-south-jersey

[weather-usa]

Heat wave set to scorch the Southwest, with temperatures possibly reaching up to 120 degrees

A potentially record-breaking heat wave is anticipated to push temperatures across the western U.S. into the triple digits as it intensifies this week, prompting warnings and the establishment of cooling shelters throughout the region.

From southwestern Oregon and California to parts of Arizona and western Nevada, millions of people will be under excessive heat warnings from Tuesday through Friday.

The highest temperatures are expected in Furnace Creek, Death Valley National Park, where readings could reach 120 degrees. In southern California’s Palm Springs and Coachella Valley, afternoon highs might hit 118 degrees.

Federal forecasters predict that major cities, including Los Angeles, Phoenix, Las Vegas, and Portland, Oregon, will exceed 100 degrees. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass has announced that emergency personnel are preparing for the heat wave, and cooling centers are being set up across the city.

"The homeless, elderly, children, and individuals with health conditions are at the greatest risk for heat-related illnesses," the Los Angeles weather service office posted on X. "Daytime temperatures ranging from 95 to 105 degrees will become common away from the coast."

Weather Forecast For 75006-Carrollton-TX:

https://www.behance.net/gallery/201656829/Weather-Forecast-For-75006-Carrollton-TX

A heat wave in the Southwest is typical for this time of year. Heather Zehr, a senior meteorologist at AccuWeather, noted that searing heat is not unusual for Southern California, western Nevada, and southern Arizona in September.

"September is generally quite hot in this region due to its southwestern location and dry climate. Peak average temperatures often occur at the end of August and the beginning of September," she explained.

Zehr pointed out that this heat wave will be significantly milder compared to the record-breaking heat wave in July that swept across the Southwest. That earlier heat wave saw temperatures in Phoenix reach 118 degrees, afternoon highs in Las Vegas hit 120 degrees, and peak temperatures in the Palm Springs desert area soar to 124 degrees. This week, forecasts suggest that each of these areas will experience temperatures several degrees lower than those seen in July.

The situation is different in the Northwest.

Zehr explained that southwestern Oregon usually starts to cool down at the onset of fall as Arctic air intrusions move into the region. However, due to the heat wave, daily temperature records across the Willamette Valley, including cities like Portland and Medford, could be threatened, with forecasts predicting temperatures could climb to 105 degrees.

"This is somewhat unusual for them," Zehr said, referring to the heat wave affecting southern Oregon.

How to Stay Safe During a Heat Wave

To protect yourself during a prolonged heat wave, experts recommend avoiding direct sunlight, drinking plenty of water, and wearing sunscreen or sun-protective clothing if you need to go outside.

Climate and Average Weather Year Round in 27205 - Asheboro NC:

Seemal Desai, president of the American Academy of Dermatology, advised staying indoors between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when sunlight is most intense. It's important to drink water rather than relying solely on caffeinated beverages or sports drinks, which may contain additional chemicals and additives.

Kelly Olino, assistant professor of surgical oncology at Yale School of Medicine, emphasized the importance of recognizing serious signs of heatstroke or heat-related illness, such as nausea, vomiting, and lightheadedness.

The National Weather Service also issued advisories reminding people to check their vehicles for children and pets before leaving them unattended, as car interiors can quickly reach deadly temperatures.

How Extreme Heat Can Affect Your Health

While warm weather can enhance mental health by encouraging outdoor activities and increasing vitamin D levels, extreme heat can have detrimental effects.

"Heat has been linked to irritability, agitation, anxiety, and cognitive impairment," Susan Albers-Bowling, a clinical psychologist at the Cleveland Clinic, told USA TODAY in June. "Research also indicates that during heat waves, there is a noticeable rise in suicide rates, domestic violence, substance abuse, and crime."

See more:

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-96707

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-96708

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-96709

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-96710

https://weatherusa.app/zip-code/weather-96712

Albers-Bowling added that high temperatures can disrupt sleep and diminish the effectiveness of certain medications. Additionally, extreme heat can lead to hormonal changes, such as elevated cortisol levels (the stress hormone), and can impair alertness and cognitive function.

[allcnaprograms]

Discover the very best Oregon CNA Programs: Your Path to a Rewarding Career Starts Here!

Title: ​Discover the Best Oregon CNA Programs:⁢ Your Path to a​ Rewarding Career Starts Here!

Meta Title:‍ Find the Top Oregon CNA Programs for Your Career Growth

Meta Description: Looking to become a Certified Nursing Assistant ⁣in Oregon? Explore ‍the best CNA programs in ‌the state​ to kickstart your rewarding healthcare career journey.

Introduction:

Are you passionate ⁤about helping others and interested in pursuing a career in the healthcare field? Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) could be the perfect starting point for you. CNAs play a crucial role in providing direct patient‍ care and support under the ⁢supervision of⁤ licensed nurses in hospitals,‌ nursing homes, and other ⁢healthcare facilities.

If you’re ‍in Oregon and‌ ready to embark on this fulfilling career path, it’s essential to choose the right CNA program that‌ meets your needs and sets‍ you up for success. In this article, we’ll explore the best CNA programs in Oregon to help you take the first step towards a rewarding healthcare career.

Benefits of Becoming a CNA:

Before diving into the top CNA programs ⁣in Oregon, let’s briefly ‍touch on some of the benefits of pursuing a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant:

1. Job Stability: ⁣The demand ⁣for CNAs is expected to grow as the ⁣aging population increases, providing ample job opportunities in​ various healthcare settings. 2. Quick Entry into the Healthcare Field: CNA ​programs typically have shorter durations than other healthcare training programs, ‌allowing you to start your career sooner. 3. Personal‌ Fulfillment: ⁢CNAs have the‍ opportunity to make a meaningful difference ‍in the lives of patients by ⁢providing compassionate care and support. 4. Career Advancement Opportunities: ⁣Becoming a CNA can serve as a stepping stone to further your education and advance into roles such as Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nurse (RN).

Top Oregon CNA Programs:

When ⁤selecting a‌ CNA program in Oregon, it’s crucial to consider factors such as program accreditation, curriculum quality, clinical training opportunities, ‍and exam pass rates. Here are some of the best CNA programs in Oregon ⁣worth exploring:

1. XYZ Healthcare Training Institute: ‍- Location: Portland, Oregon ⁣ – Program ‌Duration: 6 weeks ⁢ – Highlights: Accredited program, hands-on clinical experience, high exam pass rates

2. ABC Community College: – Location: Eugene, Oregon – Program Duration: 8 weeks ��� Highlights: Experienced faculty,‌ affordable tuition, job ⁤placement⁤ assistance

3. DEF Vocational School: – Location: Salem, Oregon – Program Duration: 5 weeks – Highlights:​ Small class sizes, ⁣flexible scheduling options, comprehensive training curriculum

4. GHI Nursing Academy: – Location: Medford, Oregon ��� Program Duration: 7 weeks – Highlights: State-of-the-art simulation labs, career ⁤counseling services, financial aid ‌options

Practical Tips for Choosing a CNA Program:

– Research multiple CNA programs to compare ​curriculum, facilities, and student reviews. – Verify program accreditation to ⁢ensure your education meets industry standards. – Consider the program’s location, schedule flexibility, and tuition costs. – Reach out to current students ⁤or alumni for insights on their experiences with the program.

Conclusion:

Embarking on a career as⁤ a Certified Nursing Assistant can be a rewarding and fulfilling journey, allowing you to make a positive ‍impact ‌on the lives of others. By choosing the right CNA program in ​Oregon, you can acquire ‌the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in‌ your role and ⁢pursue further career growth opportunities in the healthcare⁤ field.

Take ​the time to ‌explore ⁢the top CNA programs in Oregon mentioned in‍ this article, conduct thorough research, and make an⁣ informed decision based on your career⁤ goals and preferences. Your path to a rewarding CNA⁢ career starts here – seize the opportunity and begin your healthcare journey today!

https://allcnaprograms.com/discover-the-very-best-oregon-cna-programs-your-path-to-a-rewarding-career-starts-here/

[newstfionline]

Friday, August 16, 2024

Industry and shippers brace for Canada rail stoppage, fear ‘catastrophe’ (Reuters) North American industry groups and shippers are bracing for an unprecedented simultaneous stoppage at both of Canada’s main railway companies that could inflict billions of dollars’ worth of economic damage. Canada is the world’s second-largest country by area and relies heavily on trains to transport grain, beans, automobiles, potash, coal and other goods. “It’s a catastrophe. Literally nothing would move,” said Greg Northey, vice president of public affairs at Pulse Canada. Talks between Canadian National Railway and Canadian Pacific Kansas City on one hand and the Teamsters union on the other have deadlocked, with each side accusing the other of bad faith. The rail companies say they will start locking out workers on Aug. 22 if they cannot reach a labor deal, while the union says it is ready to call a strike for that date.

Millions of kids are still skipping school (AP) Flerentin “Flex” Jean-Baptiste missed so much school he had to repeat his freshman year at Medford High outside Boston. At school, “you do the same thing every day,” said Jean-Baptiste, who was absent 30 days his first year. “That gets very frustrating.” Then his principal did something nearly unheard of: She let students play organized sports during lunch—if they attended all their classes. In other words, she offered high schoolers recess. “It gave me something to look forward to,” said Jean-Baptiste, 16. The following year, he cut his absences in half. Years after COVID-19 upended American schooling, nearly every state is still struggling with attendance. Roughly one in four students in the 2022-23 school year remained chronically absent, meaning they missed at least 10% of the school year. That represents about 12 million children in the 42 states and Washington, D.C., where data is available. Before the pandemic, only 15% of students missed that much school.

Hurricane Ernesto leaves half of Puerto Rican customers without power (Reuters) About half of all homes and businesses on Puerto Rico were without power on Wednesday as Hurricane Ernesto churned north into the warm waters of the Atlantic after dumping torrential rain on the U.S. territory. More than 725,000 homes and businesses on the island were without electric service out of a total of about 1.5 million customers, according to LUMA Energy, the Caribbean island’s main power supplier. Puerto Rico’s power grid is notoriously fragile. In 2022, Hurricane Fiona knocked out power for about 80% of the island’s homes and businesses for as long as a month. Five years earlier, Hurricanes Irma and Maria destroyed the island’s power grid and caused outages in some areas that lasted nearly a year.

Germany Issues Arrest Warrant for Ukrainians Over Nord Stream Explosion (CNN/Compiled) On September 26, 2022, a series of explosions hit the Nord Stream 1 and 2 natural gas pipelines, which bring natural gas from Russia to Europe. In the aftermath, it was unclear what group was responsible for the attacks—while the Kremlin blamed the U.S. for orchestrating the bombings, the U.S. and its Western allies claimed that Russia had blown up its own pipelines in an attempt to raise electricity prices in Europe. Now, it’s become clear that a group of Ukrainians were the actual perpetrators. According to multiple German media outlets, their country’s government has (quietly) issued international arrest warrants for three Ukrainian men who are the main suspects in the incident. The warrants are the latest step in a slow rollback of the narrative surrounding the pipeline bombings—while U.S. and E.U. officials were happy to fully pin the explosions on Moscow soon after the attack, multiple investigations into the pipeline incidents were quietly closed by multiple European governments over the past year without comment. Last year, the Biden administration admitted that it had received information that a group of Ukrainians were planning the bombings over three months before they occurred, but declined to act on that intel. The Wall Street Journal reported that top Ukrainian officials were involved in the operation. “The whole thing was born out of a night of heavy boozing and the iron determination of a handful of people who had the guts to risk their lives for their country,” an officer involved in the plot said. According to another officer, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky originally approved the plan—only to backtrack when the CIA urged him to reverse course. Zelensky’s commander in chief, however, went ahead with the operation anyway.

Greece’s wildfire 'hell' (BBC) Highly destructive wildfires in the north-east of Athens have killed a woman, injured dozens and torn through 100,000 acres of land. It has now mostly been put out by firefighters, as Greek authorities now assess the damage. “It was like hell. It was like a war,” says George, a 36-year-old volunteer firefighter who helped battle this week’s mega-blaze which burnt its way to the outskirts of Athens. “We don’t have the resources to beat those conditions," he tells me in a cafe in the hilltop town of Varnavas north-east of the capital. It’s in this district where a wildfire began on Sunday that led to thousands of evacuations as flames ripped through both homes, farms and forest. Dark grey ash blankets the ground on hills encircling Varnavas, while pine trees have taken on the appearance of used matchsticks.

Russia sentences American woman to 12 years for donation aiding Ukraine (Washington Post) Ksenia Karelina to 12 years for treason, in a closed court case, weeks after the largest prisoner exchange between Russia and the West since the Cold War. Karelina, a dual passport holder and a beautician living in Los Angeles, was arrested by Russia’s Federal Security Service in February during a trip home to Yekaterinburg to visit family. Karelina’s sentencing, weeks after the prisoner exchange, underscored the risks of travel to Russia, with U.S. officials warning of a sharp rise in hostage diplomacy—the practice of arresting foreign citizens for political leverage or use in prisoner exchanges. Karelina was charged with sending aid to help Ukraine’s war effort, after investigators examined her phone and found evidence of a donation of just over $50 to a Ukrainian humanitarian agency. The court claimed that Karelina’s money, donated the same day that Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, was used to purchase “tactical medicine items, equipment, means of defeat, and ammunition” for Ukraine.

Ukraine says it has taken more ground and prisoners during its advance into Russia border region (AP) Ukrainian forces pushed on with their major cross-border advance into Russia’s Kursk region for a second week Wednesday, claiming that they took more ground, captured more Russian prisoners and destroyed a bomber in attacks on military airfields. Assault troops advanced 1 to 2 kilometers (about a mile) farther into areas of Kursk on Wednesday, the commander of the Ukrainian military, Gen. Oleksandr Syrskyi, said. Ukrainian troops also took more than 100 Russian soldiers prisoner, who will eventually be swapped for Ukrainian prisoners of war. Additionally, the troops destroyed a Russian Su-34 jet used to launch devastating glide bombs at Ukrainian front-line positions and cities, Ukraine’s General Staff said. The surprise Ukrainian push into the Kursk region is the largest attack on Russia since World War II and could involve as many as 10,000 Ukrainian troops backed by armor and artillery, military analysts say.

Political turmoil threatens prospects of Thailand’s floundering economy (Reuters) The political turmoil unleashed by the dismissal of Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is likely to deal another blow to the already struggling economy, where millions of people drowning in debt have been waiting for long-delayed cash handouts. Srettha’s ouster by the constitutional court on Wednesday came a fortnight after his government opened registrations for a scheme to give away 10,000 baht to 50 million Thais, a key election promise of his Pheu Thai party. Over 16 million people had applied to receive the “digital wallet” handout on the day registrations opened, crashing the system but signalling huge demand for the controversial scheme among ordinary Thais hurting from the slowing economy and high levels of personal debt. Household debt stood at 16.4 trillion baht, or 90.8% of GDP, at the end of March, among the highest in Asia.

Iran police shot a woman while trying to seize her car over hijab law violation, activists say (AP) On a darkened road beside the Caspian Sea, Iranian police officers opened fire last month on a 31-year-old woman who had tried to speed away likely knowing they wanted to seize her vehicle. Police had been ordered to impound her car, activists say, because of an earlier violation of Iran’s headscarf law for showing her hair in public while driving. Now unable to walk and confined to a bed at a police hospital, Arezou Badri—a mother of two—is the latest casualty of Iran’s renewed crackdown over headscarves, or hijabs. Iran’s new reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian has promised to ease enforcement of the headscarf law. But the murky details of Badri’s shooting and a recent video of a girl being manhandled in the streets of Tehran show the dangers still lurking for those willing to disobey it.

In Gaza, Israel’s Military Has Reached the End of the Line, U.S. Officials Say (NYT) Israel has achieved all that it can militarily in Gaza, according to senior American officials, who say continued bombings are only increasing risks to civilians while the possibility of further weakening Hamas has diminished. With the Biden administration racing to get cease-fire negotiations back on track, a growing number of national security officials across the government said that the Israeli military had severely set back Hamas but would never be able to completely eliminate the group. And one of Israel’s biggest remaining goals—the return of the roughly 115 living and dead hostages still held in Gaza after being seized in the Oct. 7 Hamas attacks—cannot be achieved militarily, according to current and former American and Israeli officials.

Israel is redrawing the West Bank (Washington Post) During 18 months in power, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s coalition government has dramatically expanded Israel’s footprint in the occupied West Bank—accelerating a long-term campaign by the country’s settler movement to thwart the creation of a Palestinian state. The government has approved strategic land seizures—almost 6,000 acres this year alone—and major settlement construction, escalated demolition of Palestinian property and increased state support for illegally built settler outposts. Together, they mark the most significant territorial changes in the West Bank in decades. While the Biden administration insists that any diplomatic solution to the war in Gaza include a path to an independent Palestinian state, radical Jewish settlers and their far-right political backers, who have ascended to the highest levels of Israel’s government, are redrawing the map in real time—making the two-state solution envisaged in past peace accords effectively impossible. An estimated 3 million Palestinians live in the West Bank, alongside more than 500,000 settlers, whose numbers have increased by more than 15 percent during the past five years.

[countrymusiclover]

21 - Lot Can Happen in 10 Years

Part 22

It’s About Time

Tags just ask - @lover-of-books-and-tea @bvbwestfall @bubble-bluee @liesanddreams @bethanymccauley @skeletonontheroad @ashsallyblue2 @kmc1989 @tallrock35 @herondale-lightworm @afraidofshrimp @eclipse134

Long awaited update here y’all. Enjoy and please leave comments ❤️

10 ten years later 

“Mommy, where are we going?” My ten year old daughter Maya asked me once we had made our way up flights of stairs to one of my friends that I had met when I moved from Medford, Texas. 

Knocking on the apartment door I kept one hand intertwined with my daughters so she didn’t run off somewhere in this large building.  “To see an old friend from mommy’s past.” The door opens after I knock a couple of times. 

A familiar girl with long blonde hair and a bright smile stuck her head outside into the hallway.  “Hey Y/n.  Little Maya.   What are you guys doing up here? Is Hannah up here with you too?” 

“Hi Aunt Pen!” My son jumped out from behind my leg throwing his arms up with cheer. 

Penny stepped into the doorway ruffing his dark curls on his head. “Hey Grady.  So what’s wrong?” 

“I miss daddy.” He muttered with watery eyes. 

Tucking some hair behind my ear I sighed heavily turning to the side to show her our three small suitcases that we had drug up the stairs given the elevator was out of order.  “So here’s the thing I - we’re needing a place to stay since my landlord couldn’t handle me shuffling around noisy kids anymore.  He kicked me out.” 

“Oh my god that’s awful.  I only have one bedroom but of course you can stay here until you find someone better to accommodate you and your kiddos.” Hannah’s cousin covered her mouth in shock rushing to grab our bags and show us inside. 

Grady and Maya  ran past my legs straight for the window by the small dinner table.  “Wow!” 

The reason I had come to Penny was because she is the only person I know here.  Hannah and Ryker moved to Nebraska after they graduated high school since they fell in love with the scenery.  Marlowe had went to Nashville for a little while but realized that he just liked playing guitar as a hobby and now he worked at one of the music stores outside of Medford. Ashley had stayed in Medford and works as a nurse.  And then there’s Georgie…

“So are you still doing the blog videos occasionally for money or have you found a job that works for you now?” Penny asked me sitting down on the couch while we watched my twins play around the big apartment. 

Hugging my knees to my chest I felt my phone vibrate inside my back pocket meaning someone had texted me but I didn’t think it was important.  “Sort of.  I’m working on getting a better job at another sporting goods store.  I have more past experience in that than anything else.” 

“Penny, Penny, Penny.” Someone knocked calling her name on the other side of the closed door. 

“Who’s outside?” I questioned her. 

She got up from her spot on the couch answering the door. “What’s up, Buttercup?” 

“You have to get rid of the chair.” 

She shut the door in the person's face.  “Nope.” 

“Penny, penny, penny.” 

She spun around opening the door a second time. “What’s the word hummingbird?” 

“For your safety please wait in my apartment as I call the authorities so they may remove the Chair of Death.” 

She shut the door in his face. “No.” 

“Penny, penny, penny.” I huffed wanting to know who this guy was and why he wouldn’t leave her alone so we could hang out. 

Penny opened the door asking.  “What’s the gist physicist?” 

“Under my authority as a self-appointed member of the Center for Disease Control Street team these premises are condemned -“ Penny tried to close the door but he pushed his hand against it stopping her.  “As a man with a keen sense of style I must tell you.  That chair does not work with the room.” 

Penny slammed the door crossing the room grabbing a hold of a small red chair that was sitting beside the couch where I shifted around on the couch raising a brow in confusion.  “Penny, what is this guys deal with this chair?” 

“Oh it’s my neighbor across the hall.  Him and his roommate are really smart.  He came over one day and I told him I got the chair off the street and now he can’t calm down and not freak out if it’s still in my apartment.  Urgh! Can you help me with the door?” 

“Sure.” I jumped up grabbing the door handle ready to fling it open. 

The three knocks went off louder this time. “Penny, penny, penny!” 

“The chair is staying dude - Sheldon, you’re her neighbor!” 

The guy in a yellow and blue striped shirt screamed when my friend held up the red chair and he stumbled down onto the floor trying to get as far from the chair as possible screaming. “Ahhh! - Y/n?” 

“Why didn’t you tell me it was Sheldon.” I turned my head back to my friend who was holding the red chair still in her arms. 

Penny shrugged her shoulders with a half smile.  “I didn’t think you wanted to talk about a certain Cooper boy.  So I just didn’t mention that his brother is my neighbor.” 

“Wait, I'm confused here.  You and Georgie are married.  Why are you living with Penny?” Sheldon questioned entering the conversation once he had gotten up from the ground. 

Glaring at my ex’s younger brother I sighed and dropped my shoulders heavily thinking back on our life.  “According to your brother, being best friends since you were five years old isn't as special as I thought it was.” It seemed like it would always be me and Georgie against the world forever. 

We had been driving in Ashley’s car for hours on end and I still was aware of where in the world we were heading.  The only information I was given was to pack a bag for the weekend and that we were going to visit Hannah’s cousin who lived in Nebraska. Sitting in the front passenger with Ashley driving and Hannah sitting in the backseat.  “Okay seriously you have to tell me why we are going to see your cousin at such a random time.  We’ve only got a few more weeks before we graduate high school.  So why are we going to see Penny now?” 

“It’s a surprise.  Just trust, have we ever steered you wrong?” Hannah remarked from the backseat. 

Shifting around in my seat I glared at her. “What about 8th grade when you had me try out for the cheerleading team.” 

“How was I supposed to know that the coach wasn’t going to give you a spot because he had a crush on your mom when they were in school but she chose your dad.” Hannah shrugged her shoulders remembering what moment I was thinking about. 

Ashley just chuckled finally parking the vehicle in the driveway getting out first.  Hannah and I got out at the same time before I shifted my gaze down to my boots seeing a trail of red roses going up the porch stairs.  “What is all this for?” 

“Go inside.  Just trust us.” Ashley clasped her hands together grinning ear to ear. 

Slowly walking up the wooden porch steps I pushed opened the front door of the large cabin.   I gasped entering the living room seeing Marlowe, Ryker and Missy standing behind Georgie who was standing in front of the large fireplace.   “Georgie, what - what are you all doing here?” 

“Y/n, we’ve been attached at the hip from the age of five, we know each other better than we probably know ourselves, and have no problem fighting over the last tater tot.   Now I’ve gotta admit I wasn’t too bright to not see how you felt about me and me about you , for a long dang time.  But I’m going to work everyday to make it up to you. And you already know  I’m the hardest worker you’ll ever meet.  When I see something I want I don’t stop till I get it.  And what I want is for you to be my wife.”  Georgie lowered himself down on one knee, pulling out a small box revealing a ring to me.  “Will you marry me Y/n?” 

Covering my mouth with my hands I felt happy tears falling down my face before I gave him a verbal answer.  “Georgie. Yes - yes I’ll marry you.” 

“Yes! She’s finally gonna become my sister.” Missy threw her hands up cheering loudly with a grin plastered across her face. 

Georgie rose up from the wooden floor meeting me in the middle of the room when we ran to one another and he quickly slipped the ring on my finger.  “I’m guessing the baby is happy for us too.” I giggled after we shared a kiss once I had felt some kicking against my stomach that was starting to show.  

“Hey you two.  I just needed to tell you that y’all can totally get married out here on my family’s place if you want.” Hannah’s cousin Penny who had her blonde hair up in a ponytail was standing beside my two high school girlfriends smirking. 

Georgie threw a fist up into the air.  “Hell yeah!” 

“Thank you so much.  We'll definitely do that.” I grinned back at the blonde knowing it was a big help to us considering we didn’t have a lot of money at the time saving up for baby stuff. 

Comments really appreciated ❤️

[casspurrjoybell-24]

The Alpha's Beta - Chapter 27 - Part 1

BOOK ONE: The Alpha's Trilogy

*Warning Adult Content*

Seriously - Part 1

Alpha Silas Claymore

[A year and a half later]

"Alright Mr. Claymore, I'm going to need you to sign here and then we'll be all done."  

I nodded my head, signing my name down on the white page, the last of many I was hoping.   

Once I finished I stood up and my hand was met with the hand of the mans behind the dark oak desk.

The office lit mostly by the large window that sat behind him.

"Well, congratulations Mr. Claymore-Phoenix and Mr. Phoenix-Claymore. It's regretful Star couldn't join us but attending school is far more important."  

"We agree, it'll be a great surprise for him when he gets home though," I said grabbing my pea coat off the back of the chair.

Darren and I made our way out of the large building in the center of the city of Medford.   

We had an hours drive back to the territory, thankfully this was the first and last time we'd have to drive out this far.

Normally we did this business in the town outside of ours but they didn't have anyone qualified to co-sign the papers we did today.   

Once back inside our gates, Darren and I took off towards the local school, where Star was a grade eight student.

His grades were mostly B's and A's and he had a large group of friends but his best was still Ivan.

On most Friday afternoon's Star would go with Ivan, Rudy, Declan and Patrick to town in Patrick's car and go to the arcade for a few hours of games before picking a house to crash at for the night but today Darren and I were going to pick Star up from school and take him out to eat before telling him our big news.

We waited outside for about ten minutes before the bell went and the kids started to file out, then we waited another ten minutes for Star to get out.

He had grown a few inches in the year and a half he was with us, he'd cut his hair short and wore mostly black, even when the sun was out in the summer but he was still a good kid.

Even with the attitude and once a night fights I knew the Star we first met was still in there, he just needed some more time to come out after all the drama that had happened.

'What are you guys going here?' Star asked as he made his way towards us.

Ivan, Declan and Rudy stood by the doors waiting for Star and Patrick I'd assume.   

Ivan was still his high-fashion dressed self.

Wearing pink skinny jeans and a purple and gray stripped shirt, that I'm sure wouldn't work on anybody but him.

He two had gotten his hair cut short but he dyed the tips of his hair red and black, so that it 'looked better up' rule was a newer boy to the pack, his mother had mated to a hunter and he was the protected of a teenage-ops but we didn't treat him any different.

He fit in perfectly, he had on a maroon coloured hoody with beige pants and his dirty blond hair was also cut to his head.

He looked towards Declan, who was Max and Scott's son.

He wore a normal large T-shirt and jeans, not standing out as much as the other boys in his group.   

"We're going out to eat tonight, you can catch up with you friends later okay?"  

Star rolled his eyes but nodded anyways, sending a sign to his friends behind him to not wait up, then climbed into the back of Darren's new red Mercedes.

Shepard had crashed Darren's old car last month in a test run but he wasn't all that upset since he had plans on getting a new car anyways.   

We drove out of the territory and into town, stopping at an old restaurant that in my opinion served the best ribs in town.

It was a steak-house, with a black leather and wooden theme.

Once seated in a high booth, there was a slight awkward silence.

Star had pulled out his cell-phone after he had told the waitress what he wanted to drink, and started texting his friends.

"Alright Star," Darren said after a minute.

Star looked up from his phone, setting in his lap and looked between Darren and myself.

'What's up,' he asked still veering his sight between us.   

"We went out today and we just wanted you know, that it's now official," I said watching as his face twisted from confusion to happiness.

'Seriously?'   

"Seriously. You've officially been adopted."  

I don't think Star knew how to react to the news with no vocal cords, so he just settled for a clap of his hands and jumping up to hug us both.   

Last year, after Lucca had escaped, Darren and I talked about ways of keeping him safe and it seemed the only logical way was to become his legal guardian's.

Of course we had Quinton do some hacking so his record didn't say he had any living relatives to go with.

After that everything was easy and we had started the adoption possess.   

Once our food came Star settled down but ate with a small smile on his face the whole time.

Once we'd finished we decided to go to a movie, now that Star was in no hurry to get back to his friends.

'This is so wicked. Not only am I finally part of the family. I get to watch Deadpool. Are we changing my last name. I want to be Phoenix-Claymore. No, No Claymore-Phoenix. Which one sounds better Star Claymore or Star Phoenix? Oh Phoenix for sure. Yeah Star Claymore-Phoenix.'   

I couldn't help but laugh.

"No problem, dude. I go by Claymore-Phoenix anyways."  

We made our way into the theater and sat down, Star between Darren and I.  

After it was over we walked through the streets just enjoying our time together.

I was still on edge about everything.

Wondering when Charles and Lucca would show there faces again.

I had received a letter, three months back, from Simon's friend.

He didn't disclose his name or anything.

He just stated that he was traveling with Simon and that he was, okay.

That he'd found my address in one of Simon's books and seeing Simon stressed about me a lot, he wanted to stop at least one of us stressing and to tell me everything was fine.

With that I was at peace, I wasn't able to reply since there was no return address but that was okay with me.

I was happy knowing Simon was okay, seeing as there had been no sightings of him since last Halloween.  

"Ready to head home?" Darren asked, breaking my thought process.

I nodded my head and we made our way back to the car, as we sat there I looked towards my mate.

We'd had a lot of up's and down the last year but we were still good.

We weren't close a lot.

We didn't walk hand and hand through the sand or kiss one another unless we were in the privacy of our own homes but that's what we were comfortable with.

We didn't need to flaunt our relationship to everyone around us.

Star fell asleep on the way home, Darren had carried him inside, even though I told him to just wake him up, seeing's as he was a thirteen year old boy now and didn't needed to be lifted inside but he just ignored me and brought Star to his bedroom, laid him in bed and covered him up before turning the light off and walking out.  

"We should get more," Darren said, once we were both laying in bed, I was sat up reading a book 'The Song Of Achilles' while Darren was playing 'Hay-Day' on his tablet.  

"More what?"   

"Kids," he said simply.

I snapped my head towards him.

He was running his finger over the screen like he didn't just say something life changing.

"You want more kids?"   

He shrugged, then shifted on the bed, putting his tablet down and faced me.

"I mean. Not right now. We just got one, we've got to wait obviously but one day."  

"Alright," I agreed, laying my book on the bedside table.

"Let's talk to Star about it in say, a month's time."   

He nodded his head, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.

He leaned forward, meeting his lips to mine, before reaching around me and turning the lamp that illuminated the room off.

Leaving us to kiss in the darkness.

[gabicna]

Open Your Future: Discover Top-Rated CNA Classes in Oregon Today!

Unlock Your Future: Discover‌ Top-Rated CNA Classes in Oregon Today!

Are ⁢you looking to kickstart a rewarding career​ in the⁤ healthcare field as a Certified ‌Nursing Assistant (CNA) in Oregon? ​Choosing the right CNA program is crucial for‍ your success, as it⁣ can provide you with the necessary ⁢skills and ⁢knowledge to excel in this in-demand ‍profession. In ⁣this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top-rated CNA classes in ‌Oregon to ‍help ⁣you make an‌ informed decision and ‍take the first step towards a bright future.

Why Choose a Career as a CNA in Oregon?

Before we delve into the ⁤top-rated CNA classes⁣ in Oregon, let’s first understand why ⁢becoming a CNA in the state can be a fulfilling‌ and promising career choice. Here are some reasons why you should consider pursuing a career as a Certified Nursing Assistant ⁤in Oregon:

– High demand: The demand for CNAs in Oregon is on the rise, ⁣with⁢ job opportunities available in various healthcare settings⁢ such as hospitals, ‌nursing homes, and home health agencies. – Competitive salary: CNAs⁤ in Oregon can earn a competitive salary, with opportunities for ⁣growth and advancement in the field. – Meaningful ​work: As ⁣a CNA, you will‌ have the opportunity to make a positive impact ‍on the ⁢lives‌ of patients ⁤by providing ‌essential care and support. – Flexibility: CNAs in Oregon enjoy ‍flexible work schedules, allowing them to balance work with other commitments. – Pathway⁢ to advancement: Becoming a⁤ CNA can serve as a stepping stone to furthering your career in the healthcare field, with opportunities to pursue‌ advanced nursing degrees.

Top-Rated CNA ⁢Classes in Oregon

Now ⁣that ‍you understand the‍ benefits of pursuing a⁤ career as a CNA⁣ in Oregon, let’s explore some of‌ the top-rated CNA classes in the state. These programs are known for ‌their high-quality education, experienced instructors, and hands-on training, making them ideal choices for aspiring CNAs.

1. ABC Nursing ​School Location: Portland, ​OR Program Length: 6 ⁤weeks Course Fee: $1,200 Highlights: – Small ‌class sizes for ‌personalized instruction – Clinical rotations at leading healthcare facilities – Job⁢ placement assistance for​ graduates

2. XYZ Healthcare Institute Location: Eugene, OR Program ‌Length: 8 ⁣weeks Course⁤ Fee:⁤ $1,500 Highlights: – Comprehensive curriculum covering all aspects of CNA practice -‍ State-of-the-art simulation labs -​ Supportive faculty with ⁤real-world experience

3. LMN ‍School of Nursing Location: Medford,⁤ OR Program ​Length: 5 weeks Course Fee: $1,000 Highlights: – Accelerated program for quick entry into the workforce – Flexible schedule options available – Financial aid and scholarships for qualified candidates

Benefits of Choosing a Top-Rated CNA Program

When selecting a CNA program in Oregon,‍ it is essential to choose a top-rated institution ⁢that can provide you with the foundation ⁢you need to succeed in your career. Here are some ​benefits of choosing a top-rated CNA program:

-​ Quality education: Top-rated CNA programs offer comprehensive and up-to-date curriculum taught by experienced instructors. – Hands-on training: Hands-on ‍training is crucial⁣ for ​developing practical skills as a⁢ CNA, and top-rated programs provide ample opportunities for clinical experience. – Job placement assistance: Many top-rated CNA programs offer job placement assistance to help​ graduates⁢ secure​ employment in their desired healthcare settings. – Career advancement: By completing a top-rated CNA program, you⁣ will be well-prepared ​to pursue ‍further education⁢ and advance your career in the healthcare⁤ field.

Practical Tips for Choosing a CNA Program in ‌Oregon

When‌ selecting a ‌CNA program ⁢in Oregon, consider ⁢the following tips to ensure ‌you make the right choice for your career goals:

– Research multiple programs: Take the ⁣time ​to research and compare multiple CNA programs in Oregon to find the one that best fits your needs and preferences. – Check accreditation: Make sure that the CNA program you choose is accredited by the Oregon State Board ⁢of Nursing to ensure ‌the quality of ⁢education. – Visit the ‍campus: Schedule⁢ a visit to the campus and meet with faculty and staff to​ get a​ sense of the program’s ‌atmosphere and ‍learning ​environment. – Consider financial aid options: Look into financial aid options, scholarships, and⁢ grants that can help offset the cost of your CNA program.

Unlock Your Future as a CNA⁢ in Oregon

By enrolling in a⁤ top-rated ⁣CNA program in Oregon, you can‌ unlock endless opportunities for a ‌fulfilling and rewarding career in the healthcare field. Whether you choose to work in a hospital, nursing home, or home health agency, becoming ‌a Certified Nursing Assistant can open doors ⁣to a bright future filled with meaningful work and professional growth. Discover the top-rated⁣ CNA classes in Oregon today and take the first step‌ towards a successful career as⁢ a‍ CNA!

https://cnatrainingprogram.net/open-your-future-discover-top-rated-cna-classes-in-oregon-today/

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Man Caused False Public Alarm Trying To Get Into South Jersey High School: Police - MSN

A man was arrested after trying to enter multiple doors of the Burlington County Institute of Technology in Medford, authorities said.