#Summer Rylander

[xtruss]

Environment: The Landslide Problem! Where Natural Disasters are Getting More Deadly.

— By Summer Rylander | January 19, 2024

Lead Image: Anna Plucinska/Shutterstock

Just before noon on April 25, 2015, a devastating earthquake rocked central Nepal with a magnitude of 7.8. Approximately 9,000 people were killed, with thousands more injured and hundreds of thousands of buildings destroyed. The country is one of the most seismically active places on the planet. But its most concerning environmental hazard isn’t actually earthquakes—it’s landslides.

The Gorkha earthquake triggered some 25,000 landslides across central and western Nepal over the following weeks. Nepal has always suffered a remarkable number of landslides, but in the years since Gorkha, the count has rapidly increased. The question is, why are the numbers of landslides surging?

“The Landslide Numbers Really Begin To Ratchet Up After 2015.”

A recent study of landslide disaster data in Nepal found that between 2011 and 2020, the average annual “density” of landslides in Nepal jumped fourfold (to more than three events per 1,000 square kilometers). That’s a staggering increase. Nepal’s dramatic vertigo-inducing landscape of jagged snow-capped Himalayan peaks—Mt. Everest is just one of many—increasingly frequent and intense monsoon rains, and growing urbanization all played a part. But the researchers say the jump has a lot to do with the Gorkha earthquake and a lesser-known factor: roads.

Urban and semi-urban areas that had already been damaged during the Gorkha earthquake were most impacted by the increase in landslides, according to the data. This suggests that the Gorkha quake did some fundamental damage to the integrity of Nepal’s mountain soils—also supporting this idea, the landslide numbers really begin to ratchet up after 2015, with the density of events tripling in the five years after the disaster. Landslide frequency rose in all seasons, but particularly in the summer monsoon months, when torrential rains tear down Nepal’s slopes and lead to deadly flooding. Monsoon season in Nepal is projected to become even more intense and destructive in the future.

But another key culprit for the recent swell of landslides in Nepal may be a rise in urbanization—and the related construction boom that began in 1990 and continues today—the authors of the paper say. A new central government “started allocating huge budgets to local governments,” and large portions of that money was spent on road construction, says Keshab Sharma, a Geotechnical Engineer at BCG Engineering Inc., Canada, and an author of the new landslide study.

And these roads themselves became a problem, Sharma explains. In many cases, no land surveys were completed, nor were assessments required to determine how to most safely construct each roadway. Now many of these roads are destabilizing Nepal’s mountain slopes, especially during the rainy season.

The demand for new roads hasn’t fallen off. Nepal’s urban population increased from 17 percent to 21 percent between 2011 and 2020, and this movement is escalating demand. Of course, “people want the roads,” Sharma says.

As rainfall patterns change with our tumultuous climate and urban populations continue to grow, Sharma believes the best way to mitigate Nepal’s landslide risk is to design safer infrastructure policy—with enforcement. Building better roads, he says, could help Nepal build a highway to a safer future.

[biglisbonnews]

Scientists find enzymes in nature that could replace toxic chemicals AI is helping us replace petrochemicals with natural enzymes. Some 900 miles off the coast of Portugal, nine major islands rise from the mid-Atlantic. … https://leaps.org/enzymes/

[windforestsso]

OC map 2024!

It was not long ago since Valedale been updated and it shows. Many OCs have moved there.

I have not included OCs from the old map as I didnt have access to the old file and I dont want to jump between multiple posts to get names and photos because that was just too confusing. I have done a google doc list with the Ocs so next update will be easier. But even if I didnt include OCs from the old post, we went from 73 to 95 Ocs, the population is growing.

I will not update this untill a new area been updated or added. But if anyone sees spell mistakes or wrong infomation given for ocs I can edit that. But I will not fix the map pic.

Address book is under line:

Central Jorvik:

Jorvik city:

Breasha Keane - Somewhere by Leonardos Lottie Emberwoods - Lives in Governors fall, she have no horses. Have a twin in South Hoof, Charlie Mary-Ann - lives close to Leonardos

Crater of Jor:

Alexei Sparrowhawk - lives in the mountain between Wildwoods and Dino Valley Sora Sparrowhawk - Kallter witch in dino valley searching

Firgrove:

Moa Windforest - Hidden shack in the forest  Ryland - lives at the ranger station

Firgrove Village:

Adelaide “Swift” Swiftheart - A kalter from Icengate lives near Firgrove Alexis Carolina Nightjar Elaina Hawkwatcher - Lives with her grandmother Luca Goldstone - Wilderness enthusiast. Big brother to Max in Tailtop village

Starshine Ranch:

Athena Rockstorm - Calamity Claymore - Charlie Emberwoods protoge, soul rider and chaos child. Have a big brother, Kit, in Cape West Fishing Village Daine Dusty Claymore - A retired cowboy. Uncle to Calamity and Kit Claymore Rora Dolphinheart -

Goldenhills Valley:

William Ravenyour - haunts the hayloft on Goldenleaf Stables (belongs to Dakota Ravenyour) Willow Crazytree - (no photo)

Cape West Fishing Village:

Adriana Braveheart Bella Highgirl - Officially owns a house here but has a second home in Avalon’s Meader where she stays under busy soul rider/druid times. Used to hop from hotel to hotel. Cody Hunter Doveshovel - Rents a bed with the Jorvik Fishing Club, but travels frequently for work and soul rider shenanigans. Kit Claymore - A fisherman and Amnesiac. big brother to Calamity in Starshine Ranch

Harvest Counties:

Crescent Moon:

Feya Elfchild - Lives alone

Jarlaheim:

Alyssa Evelyn - Lives close to the rocker hairstyles shop Everlee Songbird - lives with a roommate thats also a member of the keepers Iris- Neightbour to Linda. Frequently visits the family in Cape West Fishing Village Johann - Lives in the northern part of Jarlaheim. Joins Ruth on adventures often Lucy Flowerhill - Lives with Linda Niko Northlight- lives in an apartment Riley Wolfstorm Selena - Lives by the vet Yasmine Westbank -

Jorvik Stables:

Amira Monsave - 19 year old, rents a room. In jorvik to look for Anne Arya Mistwood - 24 year old, works and lives at Baroness’ racetrack but because of renovations she currently lives with their half sister, Shilo, in Jovik Stables Brook - Lives behind the white double doors Monty Lionheart - A fancy lad just vibing Shilo Stormfire - 18 Year old, dorming at the stables during the summer to train and compete with her Lipizzaner, Glory. Currently have her half-sister Arya Mistwood as a roommate

New Hillcrest:

Blake Silvercrest - lives in the stables Lucas Roni - Lives with her two dogs Opal and Potato. She works as a waitress in the local café during the day

Mistfall:

Dundull:

Azalea “Az” - lives around Dundull and work as a ranger Bodhi Applewright - Charlie Emberwoods protoge, soul rider and wanderer. Big brother to Toby in Redwoods Vendela Zoe Silverborn - lives alone

Wildwoods:

Astrid - precise location of home is unknown Heather - Sleeps in the hayloft of the stables in Redwood Point Max Goldstone -Charlies protoge, soul rider & adventurer. Have a big brother, Luca in Firgrove Rachel - Redwood Point Ranger Station Toby Applewrights - A junior ranger. Little brother to Bodhi in Dundull

North of Northern Mountains:

Donna Buttergood

Silverglade:

Alina - lives in the field between Silverglade Manor and Nilmer’s highland

Fort Pinta:

Esther Darkdragon - 26 year old, lives with Svea Darkdragon in an apartment Morgan Saltcrest - Pirate in the sea outside of the Fort Pinta Rose - Svea Darkdragon - 24 year old, lives together with Esther Darkdragon in an apartment

Moorland Stables:

Esther Northberg - lives in the hay loft above the stables Jamie Nightlock - A baby doing his best Kit Applewood -21 year old, lives with Mrs. Holdsworth, thinking of getting a small place in Valedale Montana

Silverglade Manor:

Nahla Wolfwalker - Half kalter on a quest

Silverglade Village:

Adelaide Odenburg - Lives in the pink house in the circle with two others Amelie Emberwoods - Lives at Steves farm as a riding camp instructor. Is cousin to Charlie and Lottie Emberwoods Athena Peacecry - Lives with her parents Aurora Bellavance - rents a room, wants to move to Firgrove or Goldenhills one day Ava - Recently moved to the north side of town, close to the championship Lady - Lives with Big Bonney

South Hoof Peninsula:

Ines - Lives in the cottage south of the Rescue Ranch

South Hoof Rescue Ranch:

Charlie Emberwoods - Work as a rehabilitator, have a twin in Governors fall, Lottie. Juni - travels a lot Vilda Ravenhill - Accidently roommate with Hugh Wynonna - Rents a room

Valedale:

Hollowwoods:

Damian - Lives with his family

Silversong River:

Rowan Riverborn - she a näck chills as a horse and is a danger to children Zelda Krüger - 22 year old, rents a room in Avalon’s Meander

Valedale Village:

Corinne Eaglebridge - Lives alone Evangeline Bitterhouse - A druid in-training. little sister to Genevieve Genevieve Bitterhouse - Charlie Emberwoods Protege, soul rider and a nature witch. Big sister to Evangeline Halo Starborn Joseph - had an apartment in Fort Pinta but let the lease run out Kelly Nightborn Lexa - Moved to Valedale Village after she used to live with her family in Moorland Marie - Lives in a house next door to Avalons Renata Rose Riverlee - Is a Pandorian hunting for someone, lives in valedale when not in Pandoria Sadie Algren - Take cares of horses at the village stables while their owner is away, travels to pandora to study flora and fauna Sora

Homeless:

Alou - contantly traveling with other shopkeepers on the Southern Jorvik event circuit Juli - Either in Pandoria or traveling, he supposed to live in south hoof but wont stay there. Ruth - drifter, can be seen more frequently around Jarlaheim and Greendale

[cursedfallingmoon]

OC MASTERLIST!

(ALL THE LINKS ARE FIXED!!)

🏢.Modern day OCs!

💖. Jesse || Cute boy best friend: PT. 1 | PT. 2

🦴. Bone || Delinquent: PT. 1

🧸. Lylah || Friend's little sister: WIP

💵. Malakai || Toxic rich boy: PT. 1

🌊. Ranee || Confused Merman: PT. 1 ⇒ Asks: Where's my Human?

🔪.Takehiko || Yakuza sugar daddy: PT. 1

⭐. Ryland || Scummy celebrity: PT. 1

Hacker

Scumbag

Surfer

꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦

👾. Cyberpunk OCs!

Netrunner

Mercenary

Corpo

Diner owner

Ripperdoc

City Grown

Badlands Grown

꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦

👑. Switched Disney OCs!

!!Moved here!!

꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦

💍. Husbands through the decades!

Modern Day-☕. Julian || Too perfect Husband: : PT. 1

2010 Husband

2000 Husband

1990 Husband

1980 Husband

1970 Husband

1960 Husband

1950 Husband

1940 Husband

1930 Husband

1920 Husband

1910 Husband

1900 Husband

꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦

💻.Futuristic OCs!

Alien

Robot Society

꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦

💪. Hero Society OCs!

WIP

꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦

🪄.Mythical OCs!

🪶.Helys || Shy Harpy Hare: PT. 1

Tiny Fairy

Fairy Hive

Vampire

Emperor

King

꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦

🪶.Hybrid Bird OCs!

Harpy Hybrid

꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦

🦋.Hybrid Bug OCs!

Butterfly Hybrid

Moth Hybrid

꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦

🐾. Hybrid Forest OCs

Buck Hybrid

Deerling Hybrid

Moose Hybrid

Wolf Hybrid

Hare Hybrid

Bunny Hybrid

Fox Hybrid

꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦

🧺. Fairy Tale Picnic

WIP

꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦꒷꒦

📖.Cealieor Realm!

The Gods

God of Life

God of Death

God of Seas

Goddess of Earth

God of the Skies

God of Sun

God of the Moon

Goddess of the stars

God of Love

God of War

Goddess of Knowledge

Goddess of Dragons

Goddess of Elves

Goddess of Fairies

Goddess of Humanity

God of Winter

Goddess of Fall

God of Summer

Goddess of Spring

The 7 Princes

Prince of the North

Prince of the South

Prince of the West

Prince of the East

Prince of the Central

Prince of the Sea

Prince of the Sky

Dragon Realm:

🔥. Solaris || Yan Fire Dragon: PT. 1

💨. Yandere Wind Dragon: WIP

Earth Dragon

Rock Dragon

Lava Dragon

Water Dragon

Ice Dragon

Thunder Dragon

Fairy Realm:

Ice Fairy

Water Fairy

Fire Fairy

Nature Fairy

Dark Fairy

Light Fairy

Wind Fairy

Earth Fairy

Elf Realm

Normal Elf

Ice Elf

Water Elf

Fire Elf

Nature Elf

Earth Elf

Dragon Elf

MORE TO COME!!

[mutant-distraction]

Jim Rylander

"Where I live we get really good lenticular

clouds a few times a year. Usually, in the

spring & early summer. This photo was

taken in the spring.

Mountain Mesa,California USA

04/20/22"

[aroaceswagcompetition]

Poll list part 2

Rouge the Bat(Sonic) vs Raphael Santiago(Shadowhunters)🎉

Death The Kid(Soul Eater) vs Tsubomi Takane(Mob Psycho 100)🎉

Berdly(Deltarune) vs Nausicaa(Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind)🎉

Din Djarin(The Mandalorian) vs Anzu Hoshino(Romantic Killer)🎉

Amethyst(Steven Universe) vs Steven Stone(Pokemon)🎉

Talfryn(The Penumbra Podcast) vs Stanley(The Stanley Parable)🎉

Clay Terran (Ace Attorney) vs Buttercup(The Powerpuff Girls)🎉

Sei Handa(Barakamon) vs Xu Xialing(Shangchi and the legend of the ten rings)🎉

Sunny(Wings of Fire) vs Beta(Horizon Forbidden West)

Dr. Sylvester Ashling(Epithet Erased) vs Marcy Wu(Amphibia)

Perry the Platypus(Phineas and Ferb) vs Lancer(Deltarune)

Serana Volkihar(The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim) vs Charlie(It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia)

Zhongli(Genshin Impact) vs Tatsumaki(One Punch Man).

V1(Ultrakill) vs Aziraphale and Crowley(Good Omens)

Shaggy(Scooby Doo) vs Itachi Uchiha (Naruto)

Reigen Arataka(Mob Psycho 100) vs Pyuko(Dannganronpa: Hope’s Chains)

Marie(Splatoon) vs Rose Cookie(Cookie Run Kingdom)

Joan D’arc(History) vs Morgana(Merlin)

Murderbot(The Murderbot Diaries) vs Royce Bracket(Transistor (game))

Ryland Grace(Project Hail Mary) vs Hollyleaf(Warrior Cats)

Wolf(Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts) vs Savathûn(Destiny video game)

Damian Wayne(DC Comics) vs Dr. Miranda Jones (Star Trek The Original Series, season 3 episode 5 Is There In Truth No Beauty?)

Keagan Máistirúin(Na Daoine Maithe (The Good People)) vs Sweetheart(Omori)

Kaitou Joker(Kaitou Joker) vs Piccolo (Dragon Ball)

Roach(Our Flag Means Death) vs Alex Fierro(Magnus Chase and the Gods of Asgard)

Aradia Megido(Homestuck) vs Hestia(Greek Mythology)

Zane Julien(Ninjago) vs Agatha Wellbelove(Simon Snow series by Rainbow Rowell)

Yelena Belova (Marvel) vs The Bear/Brent/The Pusher/The Fool/Shah Zaman(Ghost Quartet)

The Witch Queen(Old Gods of Appalachia) vs P03(Inscryption)

Lord Havelock Vetinari(Discworld Novels by Terry Pratchett) vs The Knight(Hollow Knight)

Power(Chainsaw Man) vs Jetstorm(Transformers Animated (2007 cartoon))

Athena Cykes(Ace Attorney) vs Grumbot(Hermitcraft)

Yuki Rurikawa(A3!) vs Anonymous/Someone(Our Dreams At Dusk)

James(Pokemon) vs Dipper Pines 1 Mabel Pines1(Gravity Falls)

Charles Emerson Winchester III (M*A*S*H) vs Chaerin Eun(Surviving Romance)

Yamori Kou (Yofukashi no uta) vs Zenyatta(Overwatch)

Mirabel Madrigal (Encanto) vs Entrapta(She-Ra Princess of Power)

Simon Snow(Simon Snow series by Rainbow Rowell) vs Sabo(One Piece)

Silver(Sonic) vs Gin Akutagawa(Bungou Stray Dogs)

Kankri Vantas(Homestuck) vs Madhouse Mike(Cryptid Crush)

Darius(Owl House) vs Jason Todd(DC)

Emerald Trio:Willow, Hunter,Gus (Owl House) vs Artemis(Overly Sarcastic Productions' Miscellaneous Myths)

Jo March (Little Women 2019) vs Daryl Dixon(The Walking Dead)

Bakura Ryou(YuGiOh!) vs Professor Balaam(Welcome to Demon School Iruma-kun)

Granny Smith(MLP) vs Cyborg(Teen Titans)

Maki Katsuragi(Hoshiai no Sora) vs Kaladin Stormblessed(The Stormlight Archive)

Jess(Loveless) vs Asui Tsuyu(BNHA)

GIR(Invader Zim) vs Xiao(Genshin Impact)

Alexa(Xenoblade Chronicles X) vs Selah Summers(Selah and the Spades)

Felix Hugo Fradarius(Fire Emblem 3 Houses) vs Sunil Jha(Loveless)

Madeline Hatter (Ever After High) vs Maya Fey(Ace Attorney)

Kim Dokja(Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint) vs Noé Archiviste(Vanitas no Carte)

Eleven(Stranger Things) vs Jinx(Arcane League of Legends)

Fitzroy Maplecourt(The Adventure Zone) vs Pidge(Voltron)

Volo(Pokemon) vs Cole Brookstone(Ninjago)

Traveler(Genshin Impact) vs Madotsuki(Yume Nikki)

[broadraiwrites]

No. 2: TRUST ISSUES Amusement Park | Role Reversal | “You got away with the crime while the knife's in my back.” Characters: CM Punk, AJ Lee, Lillie Cueto (oc) Pairing: None Verse: Medieval Mentions: Colt Cabana, Sebastian Ryland (oc), Dia Banks (oc), Kenny Omega, Don Callis, Dario Cueto

The cruelty of Lord Phillip Brooks was spoken about across all of the kingdoms. Even with the knowledge of his perpensity for depravity in his fits of anger and his near compulsion for betrayal, no one had expected what was to come that summer. No one had expected the capture and imprisonment of King Cabana during the coup to overthrow his former friend. 

Six months later, however, the king continued to languish in the dungeon alongside Sebastian Ryland and any of the king's staff who dared to stand against their new ruler. The new regime now fully in place, even if only within their inflated egos, the new king and his wife had secured their latest pawn—Lillie Cueto.

Lillie was no stranger to acting on the whims of depraved men, her father having sold her off to the highest bidder time and time again for periods that could last anywhere from hours to years. Hanging on the arm of Queen April as she gossiped with the older woman as though they had been confidantes for many years, she took in every bit of information that she could.

“I knew this was eventually going to be ours,” April giggled. “He promised that it would be, and Phillip is a much more capable king than the joke that used to occupy the throne.”

“With all due respect, your majesty, I am a bit confused as to why I am here,” Lillie admitted. “With a queen as beautiful as yourself, I have yet to understand why my presence was requested at all.”

There was an almost wicked gleam in the queen's eye for a moment. “You have a very important role in our kingdom, dear. Your time will come, you'll see.”

In a locked room on the other side of the castle, King Phillip was laying out that role to his advisors quite clearly. “We didn't take Diamond's alliances with the Omega kingdom into account, and now the people speak of an attempt to free the dungeon fools. It will be no matter, however, as I intend to lay the whole mess at the Cueto girl's feet. I will blame her family for the entire event.”

“And what of the staff who were here before the girl's arrival? How do we handle their contradictions?”

“We take them down into the valley behind the castle, and we slaughter them. Simple as that. We leave the crest of the girl's family at the scene and use it as a warning that we were given. Given her closeness to my April, I intend to imply a threat to my queen's life if I did not comply with their wishes.”

As the summer gave way to the chill of autumn air, the whispers of a rescue mission soon became the pounding footfalls of reality as Queen Diamond, with her occasional paramour Kenneth Omega at her side, soon laid siege upon the castle to take back what was hers.

“I should have known it would come to this, Phillip,” she spoke. “I should have known that you could never simply allow us to be happy. You never can.”

“You must understand,” Phillip began to plead. “I never wanted this! This was never my idea. I did what I had to do to protect my family.”

“By capturing my own? Phillip, you're becoming a bit of a madman in your old age. What perceived threat could you possibly be under now?”

“Dario Cueto.”

Lillie's eyes widened at his words as she stepped away from April. “What?”

“Don't pretend that you do not know what he intends for my wife,” Phillip spoke. “He sends you here to keep us in line!”

“This was my role that you speak of? What was I to be your scapegoat? That was your plan; you got away with the crime while the knife's in my back.” Lillie laughed bitterly, crossing over to Diamond's side. “You should have considered this more carefully, Phillip. You see, Kenneth and I are rather familiar with each other, given my father's relationship with his uncle. He knows the ways in which I end up in a position such as this. You thought you had it all figured out, but for once, your hubris will be your undoing.”

[venustapolis]

Summer Month that Brings the Rose (Henry Ryland, 1856 - 1924)

[clubnate]

I am not the anon who followed for cobra and now will accept my fate as a tai fan, but please, please, please explain the connection between The Academy Is and Cobra Starship.

Unabridged is preferred tbh.

i got 2 anons about this and this is literally the thing i'm the most insane about omg ok warning this is gonna be long cause i'm just gonna include everything ive got on my google doc about this

TLDR; same record labels, snakes on a plane, lots of tours together, music videos, webshows and general friendship is the conncection

It starts pre-cobra with midtown. iirc, tai were just fans of midtown pre-tai and in the early days, they're from chicago and came up in the same scene as fob, mike carden (tais guitarists) old band had fob open for them and he was even asked to join fob in an early version of it, so fob, tai and midtown all eventually become friends which is when they met gabe and eventually they toured with midtown twice in 04-05.

2006- midtown dies in 05 and from the ashes rises COBRA STARSHIP. Cobras gets signed to fueled by ramen and decaydance records, which is the same 2 labels as TAI. while gabe's working on the music, tai's bassist, sisky finds out about snakes on a plane and suggested submitting their song to be on the soundtrack. Then william beckett the singer of TAI suggested to gabe that this would be perfect for cobras and he should put a song forward, which he does. Gabe makes some changes to the lyrics, adds william, travie and maja and Bring it (snakes on a plane) was born. (source) Sometime around 2006-2005 gabe briefly featured in the music video for 'the phrase that pays'

2007- things ramp up and they start touring together. Both bands are supporting acts on the honda civic 2007 tour and are featured at 3 separate Decaydance fest shows in Paris, Kohn and London. They also do a series of international festivals together like reading and leeds, pukkelpop, summer sonic, ect AND they do an australia tour just the 2 of them, this was all through summer. At the end of the year cobras jump on TAI's headliner tour, they weren't supposed to butviva la cobra came out earlier than planned so they had no tour to promote it so tai let them open for the last month or so. Both were also apart of the MTVu campus takeover this year. TAI had a webshow and cobra are featured multiple times from 2007-2008, this is actually where they got the idea for cobra cam and even stole TAI's camera man to film it. also somewhere someone released official merch that included cobra, TAI and fob that said 'gabe is not a ynonym for sisky' and they promoted it together.

2008- Both bands are part of the lineup for warped tour this year, snakes was played a lot and when suarez had to leave the tour for a couple days, sisky and the butcher (TAI's drummer) covered for him. TAI's album was released in august and featured backing vocals from Ryland, Alex and Gabe, and every member of cobra is mentioned in the thank yous. Right after warped both bands go to australia and opened for panic at the disco (bonus info: victoria, sisky and ryan went bar hopping for ryans 22nd), then right after they go and do a japan tour with the hush sound and the cab. For welcome to the new administration, suarez remixed TAI's song 'automatic eyes'

2009 onwards- Things slowed down after this. The butcher is briefly featured in the good girls go bad music video. in 2011 both band play at the 15th anniversary of fueled by ramen, this ended up being TAI's last show before they split. After they split, butcher was the drum tech for cobra from 2011-2012. When TAI had a reunion in 2015, suarez played bass for sisky with carly rae jepsen so he could play on their reunion tour. Also around 2015 Gabe and Mike started TAG music together, i think mike has left since then though.

Extras: at every TAI show since their 2022 reunion they have played snakes on a plane, with gabe or without. Gabe also always does backing vocals for the song 'classifieds' if he's there. Sisky used to do travies rap during snakes if he wasn't there, he did it a bunch on warped 2008.

Sisky commented this during cobrakkah in 2021 and i think about it a lot tbh. I think they were just best friends who got to tour the world together in their youth and are still friends and still hold a lot of love for eachother :,)

hope that wasn't too much, i'm pretty sure i covered everything that i know about. Decaydance is my favourite thing so i have a google doc of all their connections so i remember them all :D

something to add would be that TAI are opening for fob on the 3rd in LA and a few cobras live there, so i wouldn't be suprised if they show up for snakes on a plane!

EDIT: if you want photos of any of these things I mentioned I probably have some so please ask! and if you don't want to, search my tag #thepolycule and there's a bunch of photos of decaydance bands hanging out together, including TAI and cobra

[boombox-fuckboy]

Podcasts Crowdfunding

Let me know if I'm missing any, and I'll add them.

Hi Nay (Act 3)

Closes 2023-04-07

Hi Nay, literally translated to “Hi Mom”, is a supernatural horror fiction podcast about Filipina immigrant Mari Datuin, whose babaylan (shaman) family background accidentally gets her involved in stopping dangerous supernatural events in Toronto.

Arden (Season 3)

Closes 2023-04-13

In Season 3, Bea, Brenda and the rest of Team Arden will be heading to NYC, the Very Large Apple, to investigate the robbery of the lost painting A Long Summer's Night. Stolen in 1929, the masterpiece by mysterious artist Ronald Overton has been missing ever since... except for one night, July 4th, 2001, when it appeared in the background of a photograph taken by siblings Linus and Demi Callas at a party that neither can quite remember.

The Last Echoes (Season 1)

Closes 2023-04-20

The Last Echoes is an audio drama that tells the story of one planet's decision after they're offered membership in the galaxy's greatest alliance. It also tells the stories of 8 people living on worlds that are nothing but history and memory and gives audio glimpses into the sound of those lost worlds.

Twigs and Hearts (Season 1)

Closes 2023-04-21

A book that ties many together. Who picks up a copy? What powers do they serve? Between missing people and people missing, who will you trust? Twigs and Hearts. Open at your own risk. Twigs and Hearts is a queer supernatural horror audio drama that questions reality, relationships and radios.

Project Gnosis (Part 2)

Closes 2023-05-01

Project Gnosis follows supernatural agents, both monsters and beings of legend, as they travel around the world to stop conspiracies and acts of terror waged by forces from humans to cryptids. Follow a jiangshi, a werehorse, and an Irish legend in a story filled with a diverse and talented cast.

The Attic Monologues (Season 2)

Closes 2023-05-01

The Attic Monologues is a serialised urban fantasy audio drama from Audio Verse Award winner Morgan Greensmith, following Nyx Ryland, a drama student who starts practising with a mysterious collection of monologues they discover in their attic. But when they start receiving strange threats from the supposed author of these monologues, it all begins to feel like more than just coincidence.

Brimstone Valley Mall (Season 2)

Closes 2023-05-02

It's been almost three years since this dark comedy fiction podcast left our fans on a cliffhanger. And wasn't that fun? Now here we are! Three years and a global pandemic later, bringing you a final season that will answer all of your burning questions! Like: What happened to Hornblas? Will our demons make it back to the mall? What IS a bagel bite? We want to wrap up this story in a way that's more satisfying than a five finger corndog shoved down the gullet. And with your help, we plan to do just that.

[sleepyowlwrites]

I've got blorbos you haven't even seen | an oc masterpost

all my blorbos! in alphabetical order. literally for my own convenience, but maybe yours for ask games as well.

Current OC count: 204

A:

Aiden Chase - Anxiety Story

Adelaide Rhiannon O'Shea - Anxiety Story

Amelia Kinsey - Inheritance Story

Alexander Gold - Magick Story

Ander Sage - Magick Story

Aristotle - Magick Story

Arthur - Princess Story

Abari - Hunter Story

Arin - College Story

Arkenji - Guild Story

Aline - Illusion Story

Alinora Briarwood - Romance Story

Avery Williams - Watermelon Story

B:

Ben Averis - Apocalypse Story

Breydan Yusai - Guild Story

Breeka - Thief Story

Beran Sunder - Pirate Story

Briar - Pirate Story

Berry - Pirate Story

C:

Corm - Magick Story

Callum Blakesley - Youth Story

Copper - City Story

Cam - City Story

Caden - Ghost Story

Caro - Thief Story

Carmine - Princess Story

Cleo Harmon - Watermelon Story

Connor Williams - Watermelon Story

Christopher Williams - Watermelon Story

D:

Dair Sin'Claybeak - Summon Story

Dahlia Starling - Magick Story

Daisy - Magick Story

(Lucas) Daniel Cardwin - Youth Story

Din/Dinah - Death Story

Darsh - Rain Story

Devin - College Story

Dreya - Thief Story

E:

Eric Heyward - Anxiety Story

Erin Da'Virya - Summon Story

Ernest Jackdaw - Magick Story

Edwin Rose - Magick Story

Eveline Veery - Youth Story

Edgar - Void Story

Emrik - Ghost Story

Eksal - Hunter Story

Eshku - Mercenary Story

Era - Portal Story

Edward Valant - Romance Story

F:

Fern - Magick Story

Fawn - City Story

Faroom - Space Story

Finnal Espris - Guild Story

Frin - Necromancy Story

G:

Ghand Sin'Blackstone - Summon Story

Grimes - Summon Story

Gareth - Princess Story

Gale - Summer Story

Greg - College Story

Garnet - Magick Story

Galinhad - Emporium Story

Gemna Hyacinth - Pirate Story

H:

Hadley James - Inheritance Story

Haezle - Emporium Story

Heidi Chorus - Magick Story

Holly - Magick Story

Hawk - City Story

I:

Imire Da'Hala - Summon Story

Isabelle Levette - Youth Story

Irina Kovalenko - Youth Story

Idrian Sarendor - Guild Story

Ivan - Thief Story

J:

Jaclyn Heyward - Anxiety Story

Jaf Ov'Beyn - Summon Story

Jessalyn Lark - Magick Story

Jaeyoung (James) Seo - Youth Story

Jet - City Story

Jalek - Space Story

Jaino - Rain Story

Jemmi - Rain Story

Jake - Summer Story

Jorand - Mercenary Story

Jack Sanderson - Romance Story

John Rusalo - Romance Story

Jorji - Emporium Story

Jaspera Ruse - Pirate Story

K:

Kyle Heron - Magick Story

Kena - Rain Story

Kyt - Rain Story

Katlan - Thief Story

Katharine Briarwood - Romance Story

Ketki Beetle - Pirate Story

L:

the Library - Magick Story

Lila - Magick Story

Lawrence Whitely - Death Story

Laisa - Hunter Story

Lin - Portal Story

Lunetta - Train Story

Lysandris Greylark - Pirate Story

M:

Marianna Heyward - Anxiety Story

Melissa O'Shea - Anxiety Story

Madi Ov'Ubaran - Summon Story

Martin Glass - Magick Story

Mark Isanz - Youth Story

Moss - City Story

Maidred - Emporium Story

Max - City Story

Mar - Death Story

Myr - Space Story

Mandy - College Story

Marz Abisos - Guild Story

Mareye Abisos - Guil Story

Martain Abisos - Guild Story

Marlin Abisos - Guild Story

Marisse Abisos - Guild Story

Marelli Abisos - Guild Story

Marden - Mercenary Story

Mirai - Mercenary Story

Margaret Canton - Romance Story

Mariyen [redacted] - Pirate Story

Maisy Beckett - Watermelon Story

N:

Nathaniel Moss - Magick Story

Natalie Birch - Magick Story

Nykolas Argyros - Youth Story

Naki - Mercenary Story

Niyah - Necromancy Story

Noah Williams - Watermelon Story

O:

Opar - Summon Story

Ondo - Guild Story

Ormand - Necromancy Story

P:

Petirik Ov'Rine (Masryune) - Summon Story

Persimmon - Magick Story

Pim - Death Story

Penn - College Story

Pellor - Guild Story

Poppy - Thief Story

Pascal Sanderson - Romance Story

Peter Williams - Watermelon Story

Q:

Qaz - Ghost Story

Quental Kathur - Guild Story

R:

Rhea Da'Yesul - Summon Story

Rasker Sin'Tinfinger - Summon Story

Roland Blakesley - Youth Story

Rune (Cloud) - City Story

Rowena - Princess Story

Ryland - Void Story

Rose - College Story

Reed - Thief Story

Ryu - Necromancy Story

Rudy Bradford - Watermelon Story

Robbie Williams - Watermelon Story

S:

Samuel Ledell - Anxiety Story

Shae Da'Mika - Summon Story

Savannah Li - Youth Story

Shadow - City Story

Sardha - Rain Story

Sharajai - Mercenary Story

Sebastian - Train Story

Sondran Basil - Pirate Story

Sybil Valant - Romance Story

Savro - Necromancy

T:

Theodore Heyward - Anxiety Story

Tims - Magick Story

Terence - Ghost Story

Tinmar - Hunter Story

Ty Carrow - Apocalypse Story

Toby - College Story

Teshek - Portal Story

Torash - Illusion Story

Tristaina - Necromancy

U:

Ubaran - Summon Story

Umber - Pirate Story

V:

Vivianne Oak - Magick Story

Viola Sage - Magick Story

Violet - Void Story

Vari - Space Story

Vern - Rain Story

Val - Death Story

Vyx - Emporium Story

W:

Wesley Burke - Anxiety Story

Wryn Ov'Kastek - Summon Story

Winnie - Void Story

W'yn - Space Story

William Leighton - Romance Story

X:

Xiyun Jinan - Guild Story

Xicato - Necromancy Story

Y:

Yarrow - City Story

Yendan - Rain Story

Yashel - Guild Story

Yadsmyn - Mercenary Story

Z:

Zan Ov'Opar - Summon Story

Zen Ashri - Pirate Story

Floaters:

Lexi Ayre

Sage

Lin Meili

Mireille Bellerose

Tiger

Kyra Roselle

Elsie Martin

Marion Song

Jess Rider

Tris

Kivarin Moonshade

Kirel Temir

Eira Iko

more to come, I'm sure.

[freddy-ryland]

“Remember you’re the one who can fill the world with sunshine.”— Snow White (Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs)

Mom was staring her down, examining her backpack and rolled-up overalls, picking at the flyaways not quite pressed down, pursing her lips over the scuffed Converse.

"We can buy you better clothes than these Freddy," the short form of 'we are a powerful House you don't need to dress like a gardener'.

"I'm just going to Diagon Alley, it can get so dusty in the summer." the short form of 'I'm going to meet Q then we're tramping to Li's then finding wherever T is and going for drinks and I don't want to spill liquor on my nice dresses'.

"I'm not so sure Diagon Alley is such a good place to run off too...alone." short form from 'wait for your brother to babysit you, he's off work, he can protect you from your little friends and your little plans and your little adventures'.

"I won't be alone! We're just going to the bookshop!" the long form for 'fuck off'.

"We can buy books from the catalog." short form for 'don't leave this house. we can keep you safe here. there is no reason to leave for no reason nor without protection or to meet your ridiculous friends and we are rich enough to build you a library - just stay home, stay where you're safe.'

"I'm leaving." 'I'm trapped'.

Freddy marched out the door, her puffy spacebuns stirring in the breeze, onto the broad porch and into the front garden. Their house was the largest on the wizarding block, enough home for two families, enough space that a bedridden girl could find solace and peace and solitude. But Freddy couldn't help but feel that a few thousand square feet of various four corners was stifling.

"Patronus me when you get there!" the long form of 'I'll call the Calvery if it pleases me'.

Her parents couldn't do much since she was 17 now, couldn't tell her no, legally an adult, but if they called an Auror to bring her home, they'd get her home. No one could tell a member of the Shacklebolt family 'no' even if their married name was Ryland. Hell, even just the name Ryland would get the Aurors moving.

"Yes, Mom." Because she was dutiful and careful and hated to worry them more than usual. Because she woke up at night with her Mom touching her chest, ensuring she was breathing. Because she found her Dad tapping her awake from naps, so sure she was unconscious. Because Micah and Q and T and Li and everyone else had found Freddy bleeding from head trauma from a fall, curled up into stone corridors, and splayed out on busy streets when the magic decided to poison her own body and send her flying through time and memories and the future. Freddy is just a passenger in her body for a magic rooting and rotting her from the inside out.

But she smiled and waved from the sidewalk, the street built for wizards, apparition points set up in front of homes and in public spaces. A necessity of bygone War days, now the public knew who was coming, had wards set against random entry points, and the Rylands were stringent about watching the comings and goings.

"Just be careful!"

Freddy pointed at herself, "Who me? I'm always careful!" Carefully plotting the days until Graduation, plotting the days until she could escape, find a curse-breaking program willing to take on a girl with counted days and worse chances of survival past 25. Somewhere that wouldn't sneer at the wasted spot could give her all the adventure her fragile body could handle and let her chart her own course. Freddy's life was a map to a swift end, but that didn't mean she couldn't attempt to enjoy every second she breathed - living in fear meant not living at all. Living within the four walls and four corners and four streets and the four sets of eyes following her every move and watching her very steps making sure she didn't so much step on a crack - it was suffocating, and as Freddy spun in place, she couldn't help but feel a choked up relief at seeing her Mom's face fading away, warping and disappearing into the void of her house.

Landing just outside of Knockturn Alley, Freddy let out a huff of air, her magic rocking her body with a deluge of images - monsters and criminals, grimy shadow children stalking the alleys with white teethed smiles, cackles of war and shrieks of laughter. A life lived, and living and living long after Freddy died. Her moments here were short, her rattled lungs sucking in an expanse of air as she stepped from the apparition point.

There, across the way, leaning against the wall, sharing a bottle of butterbeer, they waited. Freddy took in the scent of piss, magic, and cigarette smoke and bounded forward, clenching the straps of her backpack every two seconds getting a bombardment of visions until she was wrapped up in cosmos and ink, nestling her nose into her Beloved's hair and letting the weight of Falmouth fall from her shoulders. Q already chattering away, and the sound fell like rainfall on Freddy's ears, calming and kind in the wall all summer showers were, and they parted, pinkies locked together.

"Hey Nightmare," Linden greeted, Freddy offered them a shoulder bump before whipping out her wand.

"I learned a really fun hex this week!"

A shine of sun bounced off a grimy window as the trio set off, Freddy bouncing along, shifting between past-present-future, her head spiking with pain.

But life moves quickly, and Freddy's would move quicker than the ones at her side. It was her right to experience the sunshine, so she wiped away a bit of blood dripping from her ear and continued forward.

[piperslovebot]

Relationship

Characters: Kelly Shaland and Ryland Barnes

First met: Sophomore year

Status: Broken up

Together:

1st - Sophomore year to People Find Solace and Secrets With Each Other

2nd - The Truth Comes Out Today to Realizations to Babies, and Womanizers Are In This World

Reasons:

1st - Kelly finds out Ryland cheated on her.

2nd - Kelly realizes that she deserves better and finds the strength to leave him

Aftermath:

1st - Ryland manipulates Kelly into believing his lies and turns her against Betsy and Serena

2nd - Kelly begins to focus on herself and move forward but their relationship traumatized and left a scar on her

Portrayed by Cole Sprouse and Savannah Lee May

Pivotal Episodes: That '90s Pilot, Summer Storm, etc.

"For over a year, I put up with your bullshit. The cheating, flirting with other girls, not remembering my birthday, treating like I was crazy, the manipulation, and constantly pressuring me into sex. Because I didn’t think I could do better. But I was wrong. I don’t need you at all. I’ve got my friends, family, and me. And that’s all I fucking need. - Kelly to Ryland in Realizations, Babies, and Womanizers Are In This World

Kelly and Ryland is a formerly romantic relationship protrayed by Savannah Lee May and Cole Sprouse.

[sfarticles]

It’s pumpkin season Each year it seems that companies are extending the use of both pumpkin and pumpkin spice, and quite often in unexpected ways.

“Pumpkin: 50 Recipes for Cooking with Pumpkin, From Savory to Sweet” (Ryland, Peters and Small)

I wrote down an August Facebook post from of couple of years ago.

It went something like this: “Summer isn’t over until Sept. 22 so set your pumpkin spice down! I’m not finished with my Margarita yet!”

I must agree, why rush long-awaited summer days away. It’s October, so I guess I must give-in and accept the fact that it’s okay to see everything pumpkin when shopping.

The usual pumpkin fare such as pumpkin pie, muffins, lattes, bread, soup, pancakes and ice cream have been popular for a long time. Each year it seems that companies are extending the use of both pumpkin and pumpkin spice, and quite often in unexpected ways: dog treats, pumpkin spice cat litter and dog biscuits, deodorant, cologne, lip balm and toothpaste.

One that sounds very strange, at least it does to me, is pumpkin Spam! The list goes on and on.

When it comes to restaurant menus, many appetizers, entrees, desserts and cocktails (how about a pumpkin spice martini made with the limited edition of Kahlua pumpkin spice liqueur,  bit.ly/4fjMdi3), are prepared using pumpkin and pumpkin spice. Why this craving? Pumpkin spice is a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves and ginger. Some recipes call for allspice and mace, as well. More about making your own blend in a bit.

Perhaps it is the warmth of the combination of flavors when the temperatures drop; think comfort food and flavors that offset our chillier surroundings as autumn’s weather begins to parade onto winter.

Nostalgia plays a role, too, as we connect with memories of past fall holidays, and the anticipation of family get-togethers being planned for this year’s holiday gatherings.

Pumpkin spice is a blend of spices, as is any curry. Each ingredient in the recipe stands well on its own; but to bring it up a notch, mixed to your liking in the perfect proportions you’ll be able to orchestrate a symphony of flavor. It’s probably the scent that is most associated with the comfort and coziness of cooling autumn nights. It’s time to get into the holiday spirit with some recipes using these ingredients that are quintessential fall favorites.

This is my go-to recipe for a pumpkin spice blend.

Pumpkin Spice Blend

Ingredients:

6 tablespoons ground cinnamon

3 tablespoons ground ginger

4 ½ teaspoons ground allspice

3 teaspoons ground nutmeg

¾ teaspoon ground cloves

¾ teaspoon ground mace

Directions:

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and whisk to incorporate well. Keep the blend in an airtight container in a cool place.

Feel free to adjust the quantity of the spices. There is no right or wrong. If there is a spice you don’t desire, just leave it out. If you like a bit more zing, add more ginger. However, be careful with nutmeg since too much can make the blend bitter. Use in any recipe calling for pumpkin spice. It makes the perfect stocking stuffer packaged in a decorative jar.

For inspiration this year, I came across a new title, “Pumpkin: 50 Recipes for Cooking with Pumpkin, From Savory to Sweet (2024, Ryland, Peters & Small, $14.99) Hollowing out a pumpkin to use as a receptacle for soup or stew might seem like a task. Once you’ve read the instructions it will be a cinch. And don’t throw out the seeds. Roast the seeds and flavor the seeds. Then, use the seeds to prepare the recipe in the book for pumpkin seed bars with fruit and nuts. The hearty bars are perfect for a quick energy fix.

The chapter titles are as creative as the recipes; “Gourd-Geously Good for You” (one-pots, soups and stews); “Too Gourd to be True (snacks, sharers and light bites) “Life is Gourd” (salads and sides); Go Big or Gourd Home!” (pasta and rice); “The Reason for Pumpkin Season” (breads, cookies and cozy bakes); “Pumpkin Spice & All Things Nice” (cakes, pies and other sweet treats).

Now, it’s time go out and pick the perfect pumpkin and try one of these recipes from the book.

Pumpkin and Mushroom Soup: The addition of truffle oil, used at your discretion, elevates the soup from the everyday to something really special. (Steve Painter, copyright Ryland, Peters and Small)

Pumpkin and Mushroom Soup

Recipe by Belinda Williams, photograph by Steve Painter, copyright Ryland Peters & Small

The headnote says: “This deliciously rich soup is a wonderful, vibrant gold color. The silky nature of the cep (Porcini) mushrooms works really well with the smoothness of the soup and the addition of truffle oil, used at your discretion, elevates it from the everyday to something really special.”

Serves 6

Ingredients:

3½ tablespoons butter, divided

2 white onions, diced

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1 small pumpkin, peeled, seeded, and diced

½ butternut squash, peeled, deseeded, and diced

6 cups vegetable stock

2 cep (Porcini) mushrooms, finely sliced

¾ cup heavy

Salt and black pepper

To garnish:

Chopped fresh parsley

Fresh thyme leaves

Truffle oil, for drizzling (optional)

Directions:

Melt three-quarters of the butter in a large saucepan and cook the onions, garlic, pumpkin and squash until soft. Add the stock to the pan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, until the pumpkin and squash are cooked.

Take the pan off the heat and blitz the mixture to a purée with a stick blender.

In a skillet/frying pan, heat the remaining butter and fry the ceps very gently for a few minutes, until softened but without coloring. Add the ceps to the soup and stir in the cream, then season to taste with salt and black pepper.

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and thyme leaves and a little drizzle of truffle oil, if you wish.

Pumpkin and Sage Mac ‘N’ Cheese

Recipe by Laura Washburn Hutton, photograph by Steve Painter, copyright Ryland Peters & Small

The headnote says, “Earthy sage and sweet pumpkin are a match made in heaven.”

Serves 6-8

Ingredients:

1 pound macaroni

A handful of coarse sea salt

1 pumpkin (2 pounds), peeled, seeded, and cubed, roasted*

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 tablespoons butter

2 shallots, finely chopped

2¾ cups heavy cream

Leaves from a few sprigs of fresh sage, finely chopped, plus whole leaves to garnish

1¼ cups shredded/grated Grana Padano or Parmesan

¾ cup shredded/grated Cheddar

1 cup fresh breadcrumbs

Salt and black pepper

Directions:

Cook the macaroni in a saucepan of salted boiling water according to the packet instructions.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Roast the pumpkin following the instructions below, then set aside.

Heat the butter and the oil in a saucepan. Add the shallots and cook over a high heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring, until golden. Add the cream, sage and a pinch of salt and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat. Add the cheeses and stir well to melt.

Preheat the broiler/grill to medium–hot.

Put the cooked macaroni in a bowl with the pumpkin. Pour over the cream sauce and mix. Taste and adjust the seasoning.

Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly. Top with a good grinding of black pepper and sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top. Broil/grill for 5–10 minutes until the top is crunchy and golden brown. Serve immediately garnished with sage leaves.

Roasting Pumpkin

Serves 4-6, depending on what it’s being used for

Ingredients:

1 pumpkin or squash

2–3 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and black pepper

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Peel and deseed the pumpkin or squash and chop the flesh into medium-sized chunks or wedges, depending on what you are using them for.

Tip the pumpkin onto a baking sheet and drizzle over the olive oil. Sprinkle over salt and pepper and use clean hands to thoroughly mix so that the pumpkin is well coated in oil.

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the pumpkin is tender and starting to turn golden around the edges.

Note: You can also add other flavorings, such as fresh or dried herbs, fresh or dried chili, and/or other spices when coating the pumpkin with oil, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite flavor combinations.

Spiced Pumpkin Cheesecake

Recipe by Bea Vo, photograph by Kate Whittaker, copyright Ryland Peters & Small

Serves 10-12

Ingredients:

1 pound 5 ounces gingernut (gingersnap) cookies/biscuits

¾–1 stick unsalted butter, melted

½ cup superfine/caster sugar

½ cup dark brown soft sugar

1½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

½ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg

1 tablespoon ground ginger

1 teaspoon ground allspice

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 pound 9 ounces cream cheese

3 eggs

3 tablespoons whipping cream

2 tablespoons bourbon

1  (15 ounce) can of pumpkin purée

Topping:

1 1⁄3 cups whipping cream

2⁄3 cup confectioners’ sugar

3 ounces crystallized ginger, chopped

3 tablespoons pumpkin seeds, toasted

Directions:

Prepare a 10-inch cake pan: greased and base-lined with baking parchment.

Preheat the oven to 240 degrees.

To make the crust, crush the gingernut (gingersnap) cookies until you get fine crumbs. Add the melted butter — the amount of butter you will need is variable. Test by grabbing a bit of the mixture and squeezing into your hand to make a ball, then releasing your hand. The mixture should hold its shape, but also fall apart when touched slightly. If it doesn’t hold its shape, add more butter, otherwise the cookie will dissolve into the cheesecake, and you’ll have no crust. If it holds its shape too well, add more cookies to absorb the butter, otherwise your crust will be too hard.

Press the mixture into the prepared cake pan and pat level.

Put the sugar, all the spices and the vanilla into a large mixing bowl and stir until well combined. Add the cream cheese and beat until well mixed and the sugar has dissolved.

Slowly incorporate the eggs, one at a time, beating until thoroughly combined before adding the next. Scrape the side of the bowl regularly to make sure everything is incorporated. Stir in the whipping cream and bourbon. Fold in the pumpkin purée until well combined.

Pour the mixture into the cake pan over the crust and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour until the middle is still slightly jiggly and the top doesn’t look shiny or wet any more.

Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 1 hour. Refrigerate overnight.

When you are ready to serve, unmold the cheesecake by turning it upside down on a serving plate or board, then turning it upright again.

To make the topping, put the cream and confectioners’ sugar in a bowl and, using an electric mixer with whisk attachment (or an electric whisk), whisk to soft peaks. Spread the topping casually over the cheesecake and top with the crystallized ginger and pumpkin seeds.

Optional: Scatter toasted pumpkin seeds on top to add a bit of crunchiness or drizzle with caramel sauce for some extra indulgence.

Stephen Fries is professor emeritus and former coordinator of the Hospitality Management Programs at Gateway Community College in New Haven, Conn. He has been a food and culinary travel columnist for the past 17 years and is co-founder of and host of “Worth Tasting,” a culinary walking tour of downtown New Haven, and three-day culinary adventures around the U.S. He is a board member of the International Association of Culinary Professionals. Email him at Stephen@stephenfries.com. For more, go to stephenfries.com.

[radio--head]

In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of music, certain bands manage to carve a niche for themselves by delivering a distinctive sound that resonates deeply with listeners. One such band that has been making waves in the alternative and emo rock scene is none other than "Citizen." With their emotive lyrics, powerful melodies, and raw energy, Citizen has cultivated a loyal following and left an indelible mark on the music landscape.

Origins and Evolution: Citizen was formed in 2009 in Toledo, Ohio. The band's lineup consists of Mat Kerekes (vocals), Nick Hamm (lead guitar), Ryland Oehlers (rhythm guitar), Eric Hamm (bass), and Jake Duhaime (drums). Initially coming together as high school friends, Citizen began honing their craft and creating music that would later resonate with a growing fan base.

Their early releases, including their debut EP "Young States" (2011), showcased a blend of emo and grunge influences, setting the tone for their unique musical identity. However, it was their debut full-length album, "Youth" (2013), that solidified their presence in the alternative rock scene. The album was a raw and introspective exploration of youth, growth, and emotional turbulence, featuring tracks like "The Summer" and "Sleep."

Musical Style and Themes: Citizen's music can be described as a fusion of emo, alternative rock, and grunge, characterized by emotive vocals, intricate guitar work, and introspective lyricism. Their sound has evolved over the years, with subsequent albums like "Everybody Is Going to Heaven" (2015) and "As You Please" (2017) experimenting with darker and more experimental tones.

Lyrically, Citizen delves into themes of self-discovery, emotional vulnerability, and the complexities of human relationships. Mat Kerekes' heartfelt and often melancholic lyrics resonate with fans, inviting them to explore their own feelings and experiences through the band's music.

Impact and Discography: Citizen's discography is a testament to their evolution as artists. Their albums have garnered critical acclaim and have been embraced by fans who connect deeply with the band's emotional and cathartic sound. Notable tracks like "Cement," "Jet," and "In the Middle of It All" have become anthems for a generation navigating the challenges of life and love.

The band's live performances have further solidified their reputation, capturing the raw intensity and emotional depth present in their recordings. Their stage presence and ability to create a genuine connection with their audience make each concert a memorable experience.

Citizen- Sleep

[frontlist-official]

Book of the Week: A July Celebration of Literary Excellence

July was a month of intense heat and long, sun-soaked days, perfect for diving into the latest and greatest in the literary world. As a leading publishing news agency, we are excited to highlight some of the most compelling, thought-provoking, and entertaining books that captured the imagination of readers and critics alike. Each week brought its own unique gem, from thrilling mysteries to heartwarming tales of love and loss. Here’s a recap of our top picks for the Book of the Week throughout July.

Week 1: "The Night She Disappeared" by Lisa Jewell

Kicking off the month with a gripping psychological thriller, The Night She Disappeared by Lisa Jewell kept readers on the edge of their seats. Jewell, a master of suspense, once again delivered a narrative that intertwines mystery, intrigue, and a deep exploration of human emotions. The novel revolves around the sudden disappearance of a young woman, Tallulah, and the chilling secrets that unravel in the aftermath.

Set in a small English village, the story is told from multiple perspectives, blending past and present in a way that keeps readers guessing until the very end. The richly drawn characters and the eerie atmosphere make this book a perfect summer read for fans of thrillers. The first week of July couldn’t have started on a better note, with Jewell’s novel leaving a lasting impact and prompting many late-night reading sessions.

Week 2: "Klara and the Sun" by Kazuo Ishiguro

For the second week of July, we turned to the literary genius of Nobel laureate Kazuo Ishiguro. His novel Klara and the Sun is a profound meditation on love, artificial intelligence, and what it means to be human. Set in a dystopian future, the book is narrated by Klara, an Artificial Friend designed to be a companion to children.

Ishiguro’s storytelling is as mesmerizing as ever, weaving a narrative that is both haunting and tender. Klara and the Sun is not just a science fiction tale; it’s a deep philosophical inquiry into the nature of consciousness and the complexities of human relationships. Readers found themselves questioning their own perceptions of technology and empathy, making this book a standout for the month.

Week 3: "Malibu Rising" by Taylor Jenkins Reid

The third week of July brought a sizzling summer read with Malibu Rising by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Set in the glitz and glamour of 1980s Malibu, this novel is a family saga that delves into the lives of the Riva siblings—Nina, Jay, Hud, and Kit. Each sibling has their own struggles, dreams, and secrets, and the story culminates in a legendary party that changes their lives forever.

Reid’s ability to capture the essence of a time and place is on full display here, with the sun-soaked beaches and celebrity culture of Malibu serving as the perfect backdrop for this story of love, betrayal, and forgiveness. Malibu Rising is both a nostalgic trip to the past and a poignant exploration of the ties that bind families together. It’s no wonder this book was a hit among readers and critics alike.

Week 4: "Project Hail Mary" by Andy Weir

Rounding out the month, we have Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir, a sci-fi thriller that took readers on a breathtaking journey through space. Weir, known for his bestseller The Martian, delivers another high-stakes adventure filled with scientific puzzles, unexpected twists, and a protagonist you can’t help but root for.

The story follows Ryland Grace, a lone astronaut who wakes up on a spaceship with no memory of who he is or why he’s there. As he slowly pieces together the details, he realizes that he is humanity’s last hope to save Earth from an impending catastrophe. Weir’s trademark wit and meticulous attention to scientific detail make Project Hail Mary a thrilling ride from start to finish.

Fans of science fiction were particularly excited about this book, and it quickly became a must-read for the summer. Its blend of humor, suspense, and scientific intrigue made it a fitting end to our July Book of the Week selections.

Conclusion

July was a month that truly celebrated the diversity and richness of contemporary literature. From Lisa Jewell’s nail-biting thriller to Kazuo Ishiguro’s thought-provoking exploration of AI, from Taylor Jenkins Reid’s nostalgic family saga to Andy Weir’s exhilarating space adventure, there was something for every kind of reader.

As a publishing news agency, we are thrilled to bring these exceptional works to the forefront, showcasing the talent and creativity of today’s authors. These books not only entertained but also challenged readers to think deeply about the world around them. We can’t wait to see what the rest of the year has in store for us in the literary world, but for now, these July picks will continue to resonate in the minds of readers everywhere.

Stay tuned for more book recommendations, and happy reading!