#announcement at the av club

[archive81]

The team behind Archive 81 and The Deep Vault is excited to announce our next project - Generation Crossing!

Generation Crossing is a series of monologues scored by music. The whole thing is about an 800 year journey to a distant planet, and the society that forms during that voyage. The only consistent character is the Ship’s AI.

So yes, it's weird! But if you're a fan of ours we think you'll really get a kick out of this spoken-word space opera album thing. Plus, it's got a lot of familiar voices from our podcasts.

It’ll be out on Tuesday November 12th, on Spotify , Bandcamp, AppleMusic or wherever you listen to music. Here's the Bandcamp page where you can preorder it: https://deadsignalsaudio.bandcamp.com/album/generation-crossing

You can listen to us talk a bit more about the album on the Archive 81 podcast feed - we'll also talk about the future of Archive 81: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7fWOWrV9u9ZoMtnymcF3Ea?si=qFbJ4OqySJq57kB8Vrt30w 

Here’s the AV Club article about it: https://www.avclub.com/generation-crossing-announcement 

Thanks so much for your support, it really means the world to us. We can't wait until you get to listen to Generation Crossing, we think you'll really like it.

[mariacallous]

On Oct. 29, 1920, the temperature in Detroit reached a high of 60 degrees, and the Detroit Free Press reported that “Northwestern High’s football eleven” was preparing to face Eastern High School the next day for a much anticipated Saturday matchup at the Joyce athletic field. 

Julia Esaw had not yet arrived in Detroit to enjoy the game and the pleasant weather, but the longtime member of People’s Community Church was born on that day — more than 100 years ago.

And this past Tuesday, on Oct. 29, the same Julia Esaw celebrated her 104th birthday in Detroit.

“If you could see my face now, you would see a great big smile,” Esaw announced by phone at 3:27 p.m. on her birthday, a day that was fittingly even warmer in Detroit than the day she was born.

Asking the exuberant centenarian to take a second call by FaceTime so that her beautiful smile could be seen was not an option. That’s because Esaw was in a rush to quickly take in the sun and 76-degree warmth that radiated at that moment near her Detroit home, not far from her beloved People’s Community Church — 8601 Woodward Ave. — before she was to be whisked away to a secret location for a family birthday celebration.

A 104th birthday is a rare occurrence. But Esaw says that from a very early time in her life she came to expect good experiences in Detroit.

“Detroit has had a lot to offer and I have no complaints,” said the 1939 Cass Tech graduate, who came to Detroit with her family when she was 2 years old from Columbia, Mississippi.

During the afternoon of Monday, Oct. 28, with vivid recollection, Esaw reeled off some of the early Detroit streets she lived on, including High Street, Division, Brewster, Hedge, Trowbridge and Taylor. However, it was a discussion about a destination that Esaw visited recently that brought out an excited tone a little more than eight hours before her birthday. That destination is 2978 West Grand Blvd., home to the Detroit Department of Elections, where Esaw dropped off her absentee ballot with a vote cast in the 2024 presidential election for Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris. And Esaw left no doubt that even with all of the history she has seen during her long lifetime, the opportunity to cast her vote for Harris — the first Black woman to head a major party’s presidential ticket — holds a special place in her heart. 

“I’m happy and it makes me feel great!” declared Esaw, who was born just 72 days after the ratification of the 19th Amendment which legally guaranteed women the right to vote.

Then Esaw went on to explain that her happiness this election season is tied to progress she has witnessed during her lifetime.  

“After high school, I wanted to study to be a dietitian. But as a young Black woman, there was no place here that I could go to get the training and my mother didn’t want me to go away,” lamented Esaw, who says she still owes a huge debt of gratitude to two “tough” teachers in Cass Tech’s home economics curriculum that prepared her well for life. “Blacks didn’t have the same kind of power we have today. But if we all get together now, we can put her (Harris) on the top seat.”

Although Esaw was unable to pursue a career in health care, her journey as a beautician actually began in close physical proximity to a prominent Detroit health institution. 

“I started as a beautician at the Streamline Beauty Shop on Forest and it was right across from Women’s Hospital (now Hutzel Women’s Hospital),” said Esaw, who was married to the late Tuskegee Airman Burkes Esaw Sr. “Because we were so close to the hospital, I had more white trade (clientele) than Black. It was the same thing for many years when I was running my own shop.” 

In the roles Esaw carried out as a beautician, block club president, wife and mother of four children who were taught at home to value education and healthy eating, she says race was not a barrier to success. But Esaw’s recollection of a revered Detroit landmark — the old downtown J. L. Hudson Department Store — may be a bit different from what is recorded in many history books. Esaw explained that there was a time when the shopping experience for Black customers at J.L. Hudson, which grew to be the tallest department store in the world during its heyday, was mostly relegated to the basement level due to a Northern version of Jim Crow.

Esaw’s earliest memories of Hudson’s were shared without a hint of bitterness in her voice and with a tiny chuckle thrown in because, as Esaw went on to explain, she has never accepted a “basement” view of life due to her faith. And because of her faith, Esaw says the fact that a Black woman (Harris also is of Southeast Asian descent on her mother's side) has a very legitimate chance to become the nation’s first woman president is not really a big surprise to her. 

“I was always taught that we (Black people) were God’s children too,” said Esaw, who noted that she starts each morning with a bowl of assorted raw fruit that she prepares for herself. “God made us and we’re somebody, too. And we can do anything that anyone else can, including being president.” 

And in an equally succinct manner, Esaw laid out what she would expect from Harris as president. 

“I want to see her reach out and touch everybody, because we’re all God’s children,” Esaw stated. “And then I would like to see us all work together as a team.” 

Next to Esaw as she spoke from home on consecutive afternoons beginning Oct. 28 was her only daughter and constant companion, 72-year-old Berneta Esaw, a retired Detroit Public Schools math teacher. Berneta Esaw was with her mother when she dropped off her election ballot, and she also was by her mom’s side on Oct. 12 at the Detroit Golf Club when Berneta Esaw’s 1969 Cass Tech graduating class held its 55th reunion, which Julia Esaw used as an opportunity to celebrate the 85th anniversary of her own graduation from Cass.

Berneta Esaw says she is holding out hope that there are other living people that will come forward who graduated from Cass Tech in or around 1939 to allow her mother to enjoy a reunion experience to the fullest. But in the meantime, Berneta Esaw is more than happy to share lessons for living a long, fulfilling life — which she has received with love directly from her mother. 

“Mother doesn’t look anywhere close to 90 — most people start at 70 when she asks them how old they think she is. But she has worked hard to look like that,” said Berneta Esaw, who has grown accustomed and accepting to people that want to hug and touch her mom when they become aware of Julia Esaw’s age. “Living with mother, you knew you were going to get your fruit in the morning, and salad with lunch and dinner, because mother knows that when you eat fresh, raw fruits and vegetables the body works better. 

“Mother is a blessing, and I feel blessed that I was born to two parents who were extremely knowledgeable and intelligent, and they gladly passed down their knowledge to my siblings and me, and others in our community.”  

[ladykailitha]

A Love Connection: Holiday Reunion Special

Hello and welcome to my Christmas AUvent Calendar! Every day from now until the 24th I will be posting a ficlet that is 500-1500 from an AU I've done over the years.

All stories will be marked with the tag #12 aus of christmas so you can follow along as I will only be tagging my permanent list for this (it would get too confusing otherwise).

The next one on our list is: Game Show verse. You can read the story here. All links will be to the first chapter, but the chapter itself will have links to the rest of the story.

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7

~

“Welcome back to A Love Connection! It’s our Christmas reunion special where we get together our greatest successes and follow them around for Christmas and catch up with them for the holidays! I’m your host Bob Newby and I’m pleased to announce our four couples!”

The audience clapped, cheered, and whistled.

“First we have Leslie and Scott Clark from season six!” Bob said with a smile. “They are our longest lasting couple to date! Scott is a middle school science teacher who also heads the AV and Communications Club. Leslie is a neonatal nurse who specializes in premmies! They’ve been together for the last eight years!”

On the first loveseat which was bright white was a lovely older couple. He was lean and wore glasses with a bright smile, while Leslie was an Asian woman, whose smile was small but genuine.

The crowd cheered for them and they waved at the camera.

“Then we have Abel and Maria Johnson from season ten,” Bob continued. “Abel owns his own Americana restaurant and Maria quit her job as a police officer to be a stay at home mom two their two kids, Enrique aged two and Kelly aged four months.”

Abel was a large and happy man with a goatee and thinning black hair. Maria was a latina with a pinched expression as she seemed to be pulling away from Abel’s arm around her shoulder.

The crowd cheered for them and while Abel waved, Maria gave the camera a paltry smile.

“Next we have Abdul and Nadia Rafiq, from season twelve,” Bob said with a smile. “Who have decided this year to celebrate Christmas as friend holiday instead of a religious one and have graciously allowed us to follow them on their journey. Abdul is an electrical engineer for the US army, while Nadia is a game designer. They are expecting their first child next summer!”

They were both a lovely couple of Middle Eastern decent and she only had eyes for him and while he appeared to be ignoring her, he was playing with her earring.

The crowd cheered and whistled, making Abdul nod with a small smile and Nadia to wave excitedly at the camera.

“And finally,” Bob said, “the sweethearts of season thirteen, the lovely and adorable, Eddie Munson and Steve Harrington. Steve is another middle school teacher, they must have all the luck.” The crowd laughed. “He teaches history and coaches basketball. Eddie is a music producer and former frontman of Corroded Coffin.”

Steve and Eddie wave at the camera and the crowd is even louder for them than anyone else.

“For Scott and Leslie,” Bob said, “we followed them around the chaos that Christmas when your schedules are so misaligned. Let’s watch.”

The video showed stolen moments of kisses under a mistletoe, late night decorating the tree, and early morning wrapping presents. Their video ended with Scott and his communication club bringing Christmas dinner to neonatal ward.

The audience cooed and clapped.

“For Abel and Maria,” Bob said, “we followed them around getting Christmas ready for their two kids with Abel having long hours from the restaurant.”

The video had tried to show the best bits. They really did, but everyone could tell that it was all very strained. Maria seemed to be doing all the work, while Abel got all the credit. Steve was sure that by New Year’s Maria was going to divorce Abel’s ass.

The video ended with the two of them kissing under the twinkling lights of their house Christmas decorations.

The audience clapped, but it felt forced and awkward to Steve.

“For Abdul and Nadia,” Bob said with a gentle smile, “they had a couple of friends who helped them navigate forming their own traditions for the day.”

Their video showed a nice black couple helping the two of them pick things they liked about the new to them holiday. Abdul picked a Christmas tree and one gift opened on Christmas eve, while Nadia loved the idea of stockings hung over the fireplace and matching pajamas.

It was lovely, though it was clear they were out of their depth.

“For Steve and Eddie,” Bob concluded, “we have Eddie putting on a very special music program for Steve’s school.”

The video showed Steve working tirelessly with the music and choir teachers until the night arrived. Then instead of the band and orchestra teacher conducting, Eddie stepped out and the crowd went wild. All the kids were freaking out and a good number of the parents too. The concert was a rousing success and a lot of money was raised for the music programs for the school.

The audience laughed and cheered their way through the video.

“That was adorable,” Bob said. “But that’s the sort of thing we expect from Steve and Eddie.”

Bob chatted with each of the couples and each one signed off, wishing the viewers a Merry Christmas. With Maria wishing them a feliz navidad and Abdul and Nadia wishing them an eid milad majid.

Bob came up to them after. “Thanks for coming out. It’s getting harder and harder every year to find our success stories, but I think I’m most proudest of yours.”

Steve and Eddie blushed.

“Thank you,” Steve murmured.

“I think there are going to be a great many more happy Christmases in the future.”

Bob gave each of their shoulders a squeeze. “Then this show will have done something right.”

He wished them a happy holiday and bid them goodbye.

“Merry Christmas, Stevie,” Eddie murmured coming in for a kiss.

“Merry Christmas, Eds.”

~

Day 9 Day 10 Day 11

Tag List: CLOSED

1- @itsall-taken @redfreckledwolf @zerokrox-blog @sadisticaltarts @dolphincliffs

2- @gregre369 ​@a-little-unsteddie @chaosgremlinmunson @cryptid-system @kultiras

3- @maya-custodios-dionach @goodolefashionedloverboi @val-from-lawrence @carlyv @wonderland-girl143-blog

4- @bookbinderbitch @bookworm0690 @forgottenkanji @dreamercec @blondie1006

5- @yikes-a-bee @awkwardgravity1 @genderless-spoon @fearieshadow @thesecondfate

6- @dragonmama76 @ellietheasexylibrarian @thedragonsaunt @useless-nb-bisexual @disrespectedgoatman

7- @counting-dollars-counting-stars @tinyplanet95 @ravenfrog @swimmingbirdrunningrock @lingeringmirth

8- @gutterflower77 @a-lovely-craziness @just-a-tiny-void @w1ll0wtr33 @beelze-the-bubkiss

[klausinamarink]

One Kid Gone, Another Up and Vanished (part 7)

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5 Part 6 next: Part 8

spoilers but a phone call gets through!

“You’re a thousand percent sure?”

Mike groans as he checks down the school halls, “Yes, Lucas. How many times do I gotta tell you that?”

“Well, maybe until I’m positive that we’re not having a collective auditory hallucination or the weirdo isn’t tricking us.” Lucas crosses his arms. Beside Dustin, El mutters “auditory hallucination” to herself with furrowed eyebrows.

“You guys hear that?!” Dustin exclaims too loudly, earning equally loud shushes. “Sorry, but El just said a scientific word without mispronouncing it! She really does have superpowers…”

“Not now, Dustin.” Mike hushes as they finally get to the AV club. He unlocks the door and lets everyone inside after peeking in. He guides El to sit in front of the radio while Lucas and Dustin turn it on.

Dustin won’t lie - he’s super excited to see El use her powers for the radio. He couldn’t believe it when she made Will’s voice come out. Will! Alive and singing!

But he’s still confused over Mike’s news of Will being with someone named Eddie. Eddie who? is their biggest question but El can’t say because she doesn’t know his last name or how to describe him.

“He’s a friend.” She keeps telling them.

Dustin prays it’s not Eddie Tremblay from fifth grade. The little sucker doesn’t deserve to be Will’s new friend after his football landed on their rocket project last month.

“Aaaand we’re in!” He announces, hopping behind El. Mike and Lucas squish against him even though they clearly have much more space.

El closes her eyes and listens to the whining static. Then the static changes through channels, voices quickly overlapping until they get more comprehensive. Then the voices get compressed into six, four, two-

“-Control to Major Tom..”

Dustin shoots his hand forward and grabs one of the speakers. But so does Lucas and Mike and now they’re slapping each other’s hands until Lucas finally takes it and yells, “Will, can you read us? Over!”

“‘Your circuit’s dead, there’s something wrong..’”

At the sound of the second person, Dustin’s first thought is oh thank God, it’s not Tremblay. Then his second thought is hm, this Eddie guy sounds kinda cool. Then his third thought is oh my god, we gotta talk to Will!

“Will! Do you copy? Over!”

“Will, where are you?”

“You feeling a bit better so far?”

“Tell Eddie we’re saying hi! Who is he? Over!”

“I’m getting cold again..”

“Me too. C’mon here.”

“Will! We’re right here!”

“How the hell are they not hearing us?”

“I wish I could go home…”

“So do I…”

El gives out a painful gasp and the radio explodes into flames. Dustin manages to extinguish it before the rest of the room catches, but the fire alarm goes off.

They all stare at the now-ruined transmitter, their only chance of connecting with Will and his mysterious new friend.

—

Eddie’s definitely missing.

It’s a fact that Jeff grows more sure of every day since Wayne Munson had asked him for Eddie’s secretive hideouts.

He keeps trying to ignore the seed of dread in his stomach, but it’s impossible now with the slightly somber atmosphere in the school after the morning announcement of Will Byers’ death. The fact that Eddie hasn’t shown up for classes or in the cafeteria again today isn’t helping either.

“If Munson’s still gonna be on his bender, he should’ve at least cancelled this week’s session.”

Jeff takes a half-open Skittles bag from Maya’s tray and throws it at Evan, making the two members jump. Maya because those are her Skittles and Evan because the bag hits his chest making more pieces fly out on the table.

“Eddie’s not on a bender.” Jeff hisses at Evan. Across him, Frankie is giving him one of his Don’t-Make-This-Any-Worse looks.

Evan huffs and crosses his arms, “Oh, yeah? Then where the hell is he?”

“Definitely not on a bender of any kind!”

“Gee thanks, that clears things up.”

Jeff’s about to snap back, but Frankie discreetly kicks his leg with a warning glare. It might be a good call because Jeff doesn’t know what to say next. Another defence of Eddie, for sure, but nothing to quench the rest of the club’s antsy-ness.

“Maybe he’s gone to a concert. Like hitchhiked to Indy or Chicago?” Maya asks after picking up her spilled candy.

“But he has a van?” Daniel, the senior member of Hellfire and their current drummer, frowns pointedly.

“What concert could’ve he gone to? Is there even any band playing in this bum state?” Evan raises his eyebrows.

“I dunno, Dio?”

“They’re touring in the UK right now.” Frankie says. Jeff shoots him a bewildered look that’s the equivalent to screaming are you kidding me? Frankie gives him a Play-Along-With-It look.

“Well, that settles it.” Evan raps his knuckles on the table. “Munson’s saved a fucking ticket to the goddamned Iron Lady’s territory and is breeding chicks in Dio’s mosh pit as we speak.”

Jeff stands up, no longer feeling hungry. He throws his half-eaten sandwich at Evan. The other boy gives out a disgusted shriek as the mayonnaise hits and stains his shirt. “Dude! What-”

“Shame on you.” Jeff keeps his voice even, just quiet enough for only Hellfire to hear him. Maybe it would somehow reach Eddie wherever the hell he is right now. “The only good thing about Eddie being absent is that he isn’t ripping the skins off of you and your characters right now. Especially you, Evan.”

He stares Evan down, who visibly gulps. “Eddie took you in the club’s open arms because he saw you were a loner who needed the right people to hang out with or you would’ve been one of the bullies. And this is how you thank him?”

He looks at the rest of the members and points at them accusingly. “When Eddie comes back from whatever he’s doing, I hope that rest of y’all feel guilty for thinking he doesn’t care. Because he absolutely does.” Then he grabs his bag and leaves the cafeteria without a second thought.

Outside is chilly as usual and the breeze helps relax Jeff’s nerves. For a while at least.

He stands at the parking lot, trying to think what he should do when he hears someone running over. He looks up and groans.

“Frankie, leave me alone, man.”

“So you haven’t heard anything from Eddie?” Frankie’s voice isn’t accusing but his look might’ve been.

“No. Not since the band practice days ago.” Jeff walks away but Frankie still follows him. “Then his uncle came and asked if I knew any places Eddie frequents. I told you guys that already.”

“Doesn’t stop Evan’s stupid theories.” Frankie mutters.

“You should’ve shut him up!”

“Are you kidding? You did better than what I could’ve done.”

“Words are stronger than death looks.”

Frankie snorts. He goes quiet as they reach the end of the school parking lot. Then he says, “Are you going to search for Eddie?”

Jeff stops. Turns and stares at him. “Uh, yeah? I mean, from what he said, Wayne’s probably already doing that. So, I dunno, I’m probably gonna do the bare minimum. Like where am I going to look, dude?”

Frankie doesn’t answer. His face is strangely pale and looking at something behind Jeff. He follows his friend’s phase and feels the dread well up in his mouth when he sees a poster on a nearby telephone pole.

He doesn’t need a closer look to recognize the black and white photo of Eddie from two months ago grinning at him or the large word MISSING written in Sharpie above it.

He tries very hard not to notice that it’s stapled right below Will Byers’ already wrinkled poster.

It’s a very strong feeling to see your best friend’s missing poster a few days after you last saw him alive.

Jeff forces to tear his eyes away from Eddie’s captured monochrome cheeriness. “Know what? Fuck it. Let’s find him. Wanna start at the woods?”

—

There’s something about singing quietly in the nightscape hell mirror version of your bedroom that makes Eddie’s fingers twitch to jolt it down somewhere.

After the meltdown at the house, Will had grew more quiet. Eddie had rocked him until Will complained of motion sickness and then Eddie had held him even when they slept.

After piggybacking the kid and singing “Should I Stay Or Should I Go?” (at least until Eddie admitted death by earworms and convinced a change to “Space Oddity”) on the way back to Forest Hills, Will seemed to be back in his original spirits. Still quiet but no longer on the verge of tears next to Eddie. Although his coughs started to sound more wet and shook his small frame like a leaf.

Eddie prays to god that he can speak to Wayne this time. He hopes his uncle to come up with a cooler code system than Mrs. Byers and maybe get them out somehow.

But the trailer is quiet, save for Will’s whistled breathing as he sleeps in Eddie’s arms, the old itchy quilt cocooning them both. He has to stay up. Keep a lookout for the demogorgon in this hell land and for Wayne in the real world. But he feels so tired. If he can rest his eyes for just a moment…

The sound of muffled crying wakes him up.

—

The longer Wayne stares at the posters, the bigger the impulse to rip them up grows.

After Hopper left, he had went back inside and started on making the Missing posters for Eddie. The hardest part of it had been trying to find the right photo of his nephew and he had held back tears at how much Eddie had grown. How happier he looks.

He had printed copies at the library, keeping his head down from curious and pitying eyes. Christi Waldon was nice enough not to charge him for the fees.

Then he started putting the posters up and Wayne had felt like he was making a mistake.

Nobody never said anything how difficult it is to go around town again, putting a poster with your child’s face silently begging strangers who may disliked them to find them, and to do all of this without the police helping.

Wayne had printed 100 copies. He only managed to put up 18 of them before it became too much and hurried home.

Now there’s a pile of 82 posters with Eddie’s face staring up at him on the table. Wayne can’t bring himself to rip them up no matter what his mind demands it. He has a new superstition that if he does, Eddie will never be found alive.

He checks the time. Seeing it’s only after six, he sighs heavily and takes out his cigarette. He’s briefly overcome with the memory of catching a fourteen year old Eddie trying to smoke and how his smart cookie of a nephew swallowed the lit cigarette, immediately threw up, and sobbed while Wayne had to sit down so he wouldn’t break his own ass from laughing so far. After they’d both calmed down, Wayne showed him how to smoke properly and said-

He said…

What did he say?

Something erupts from his mouth. He clamps a hand over, suddenly worrying that he just got sick. But there’s no taste of bile. Only wet salt. He takes his hand off and, ah. He’s crying.

Wayne gives a wet laugh. Then it gasps into another sob. He covers his mouth again, unable to hold the tears back.

Above him, the lights flicker.

It feels almost comforting.

Wayne sniffs, watching as the bulbs hang on to its dear life of electricity. Then one of the lamps next to the couch start flickering as well. Slow and rhythmic.

The sadness does go away, but it makes Wayne feel the back of his neck hairs stand up.

—

Eddie drops his hand from the lights, stomping over to the phone. “Fuck this, now’s the chance.”

Will glances at him from where he’s crouching by the lights, still tired from being jostled awake so soon, “Eddie?”

He turns to him and says, “Little Byers the Vanished, how does one make a landline in the Vale of Shadows?”

“You, uh, just pick it up-”

Eddie does exactly that.

“Wait! It won’t even last-!”

—

The phone rings with a shrill.

Wayne snaps his head over to it. He’s breathing slowly, watching the landline like it’s his childhood spider.

The atmosphere in his trailer feels suddenly colder. As if there are ghosts present. Waiting.

The phone rings and rings until it gets to voicemail, his gruff message for the last decade. “You’ve reached the Munsons. Leave a message after the beep.”

There’s nothing after the beep.

Wayne looks at the lights again. The ceiling light has stopped but ones over the kitchen and door are flickering this time.

The phone rings again.

He stands up slowly, walking over to the phone. It rings louder to his ears now. He tries to ignore the sudden sense of a presence behind and beside him as he picks the phone up and holds it to his ear.

He hears static as if the caller has a bad connection.

He clears his throat and speaks, “Wayne Munson speakin’.”

The static crackles with some kind of harsh breathing. It’s loud to make Wayne cringe away and hang up-

“..Wayne..”

He freezes. The anxiety vanishes in an instant. “..Eddie?” He chokes out.

“..Wayne!”

“Oh my lord…” Wayne clutches the phone closer. “You’re alive, right? Eddie! Tell me where are you!”

“..I’m-”

The phone bursts into literal shock. He drops it with a yell and it clatters to the ground, dead.

That was him. That was Eddie’s voice.

Breathing raggedly, Wayne’s gaze snaps up to the lamps flashing maniacally. The air around him feels desperate and sinks down upon him. Anxiety comes back as quick as it comes, squashing on the brief spot of hope he felt.

“Nah, fuck this.” He mutters as he swipes his keys and runs out of the door. He can’t deal with more ghosts at this hour.

—

“Nonono—NO!”

Eddie slams his hands against the lights too hard. The pulsing glass bulbs nearly crack under the pressure.

None of it stops the sound of the truck engine starting.

“Wayne, it’s me! Can’t you hear me?!” Eddie’s throat is already dry from screaming, but he doesn’t care about it. “UNCLE WAYNE! JUST STOP AND LISTEN TO ME!”

He runs outside to the ever barren yard. He tries not to think about Wayne leaving just like how his dad did in his very last visit. How he had tried to chase after his dad’s car until Wayne stopped him. How he had been a crying mess while Wayne told him that both of them will stay together from now on.

“WAYNE, PLEASE! YOU PROMISED TO STAY!”

The truck drives away, farther and farther. If Eddie can catch him-

His lungs constrict themselves again. He stumbles, scraping his knees and palms on the ground. He coughs, gulping in too many shaky breaths that almost tastes like glass shards. He calls out-

“Come back! Come back!”

It comes out as a hoarse whisper.

His throat hurts.

The truck disappears. The sounds of the trailers’ muted everyday life and his own painful wheezing replace it.

Eddie is vaguely aware of Will shuffling up next to him and wrapping his arms around his shaking shoulders.

-

Taglist: @unclewaynemunson @steves-strapcollection @hellion-child @sidekick-hero @mmmmwaffles94 @demolitionjetstar @hbyrde36 @princessstevemunson @sirsnacksalot @tartarusknight @lyriclight @kodaik97 @plsdontdrinkmylavalamp @bookbinderbitch @gutterflower77 @soaringornithopter @angeldreamsoffanfic @panicatthediaz @renaissan-vvitch @manda-panda-monium @newtstabber @little-trash-ghost

[thecoddaughter]

I saw an edit by jorjudie on tiktok (@forthehonorofraeskull) of Nara and Kristen to Obsessed by Olivia Rodrigo and now I can’t stop thinking of Nara scrolling through the Solace equivalent of Instagram and accidentally going way to deep down (and maybe liking a photo by accident). So here is what I think Kristen’s Insta looks like through the eyes of specific lyrics. (plus some Nara reactions)

'Cause I know her star sign

Kristen’s 16th birthday

I know her blood type

Kristen donating blood 

I've seen every movie she's been in and, oh God, she's beautiful

AV club short film trailer Kristen and the Bad Kids starred in 

I know she's been asleep on my side of your bed

Kristen and Tracker laughing on Tracker’s bed

And I can feel it. I'm starin' at her like I wanna get hurt and I remember every detail you have ever told me, so be careful, baby.

This is Nara coming face-to-face with Kristen for the first time

She's got those lips

Kristen smiling, next to Fig

She's got those hips

Kristen dancing with Fabian 

The life of every fuckin' party

Shrimp Jump

She's talented

Kristen performing a miracle

She's good with kids

A really old post for Bucky’s tenth birthday

She even speaks kindly about me

A repost of Tracker’s announcement post

But every time you call my name, I think you mistake me for her

A video of Tracker calling for Kristen the same way she calls for Nara

You both have moved on

Tagged photos and videos of Gertie and Kristen making out

Is she friends with your friends?

Ragh with Kristen in a headlock

Is she good in bed?

Tracker, Kristen, & the Bad Kids at a Pride March, Kristen in a sex-positive shirt

Do you think about her? No, I'm fine, it doesn't matter, tell me

Nara staring at Tracker’s crystal on the table, unlocked

Is she easy-going? 

Video of Kristen running into a lake, swimming

Ever controlling?

Alert on Nara’s phone for more likes of the promotion picture

Well-traveled? 

Kristen and the Bad Kids on each of their quests

Well-read? 

Kristen, Riz, and Adaine studying in the library

Oh God, she makes me so upset

Nara smashes her crystal on the table

[chirpsythismorning]

I haven't been active in the byler fandom, why would redditors be mad at the play being canon?

Most, not all, but most active reddit users on the ST sub have been bombarded with byler evidence for the last year. So to remain sane through it all, they have resorted to insisting that almost every detail fans come across and try to share on the sub, are just mere coincidences.

This is because they've realized that if they are considering other really minor details meaning something bigger, that means they might have to start considering the possibility that the details pointing to byler are also intentional. This is how they cope.

You would think after saying 'it's just a coincidence' for the hundredth time, they might be starting to rethink their position on things, but the reality of the situation just isn't setting in I guess (aka they don't want it to happen so they are refusing to let themselves truly consider it until they have no choice).

The reason I still partake in the reddit sub, despite losing braincells over half the takes on there, is bc there are still a handful of users that are really smart and do great analysis on the supernatural side of the show, in particular things I have no knowledge on at all and would greatly benefit from looking at to expand my understanding of things and different perspectives.

The really smart ones that exist are usually indifferent to the romantic arcs in the show, although they do have a milkvan bias bc the straight bait is straight baiting. And so these are the few posts theorizing, that consider the details meaning something more, that just so happen to get support from the hardcore milkvans on there. And it's bc as long as it's coming from someone who doesn't think byler is going to happen, they will listen.

I will say the one thing that is sort of obnoxious about all of this is that regular fans without any ship bias, will pop on there semi-regularly with a post, accompanied by basic common sense questions like, 'wait this makes no sense...' or 'why did they do this this way?' in many cases, with the confusion surrounding the build up of Mike and El and Will's role in all that. These people aren't milkvans or bylers, they are just fans picking up on obvious subtext and they are looking for insight about it from fans. And every time they get bombarded with condescending and bitter milkvans that are having to defend mike and el's honor, and s4 really made this a full time job for them lmao. That sort of resentment has manifested into hating anything and everything that considers deeper meaning in relation to Will and Mike, but especially in Will's case. Because that's the thing, they have to deny any importance of Will's role bc Will being important fucking terrifies them. It means that everything could be important basically. It's their worst nightmare and they will hound you for even speculating something. It's insufferable to watch unfold honestly.

I say all of this bc it's important in the context of the play, given that there are a lot of theories out there swirly around, theories that mostly reside on Tumblr. Many of those theories are viewed by redditors as being crack theories that have no evidence supporting them (bc they come from bylers), like the weirdness around Alice not being in the play (and potentially connecting to Karen), or the fact that they insisted the silhouette of Henry's actor right before the cast announcement couldn't be him bc he was too old to be Henry (umm time shenanigans, duh), or that the truth about Brenner's involvement runs a lot deeper than everyone assumes.

And so naturally, leading up to the play, a lot of active (very vocal) redditors in both the main sub and the Hawkins AV Club sub, have commented on posts related to the play, trying so hard to convince others (themselves) that this play is not canon and we shouldn't waste our time with it because it wont matter in the context of everything going on in the literal show. They go as far as to insist it's not canon, even though it already was said to be canon.

And now with this post, they are again having to face the reality this show is a lot deeper than they have had to insist it to is combat byler speculation. All byler evidence is seen as reaching to them. And they'll do everything they can to insist anything bylers are speculating is delusional, which includes theories surrounding the play. All of that denial has led us to this moment, which will only hurt their ego as time goes on and they are being hit with sign after sign after sign... that it might just be that deep.

[wonderdave]

🌟 Hello Friends and Fans of Wonder Dave! Hope you’re all having hot fun in the summertime.  We’ve got some hot takes from amazing comics coming your way real soon! Here’s what’s on the horizon:

🌈 Safe Words Comedy Showcase presents: UNICORN COMEDY 🦄 🗓 When: Wednesday, July 24th, 7 PM doors 7:30 show 📍 Where: The SF Eagle Bar, San Francisco 🎟 Tickets & Info: Get your tickets here 📸 Follow: @safewordscomedy

Enjoy a night filled with humor that's as queer as it is funny! This month we’re celebrating the bi/pan ladies we love! Headliner Emily Van Dyke returns to the Safe Words stage for the first time in over a year. She’s joined by the hilarious Adrianna McCain, Ashley Monique, Ivy Vasquez, and Natasha Vinik!

Also stay tuned as we’ve got an exciting all trans line up with headliner Nina Nguyen coming Wednesday Aug 28th. Nina rocked our stage at  SF Sketchfest this year and we’re excited to be bringing her back to the city by the bay. 🌉 Tickets are available now.

🧠 Mental Health Comedy Hour at All Out Comedy Theater

🗓 When: Every 2nd Friday at 8pm Next show is August 9th 📍 Where: All Out Comedy Theater 2550 Telegraph Ave, Oakland, CA 94612 🎟  Tickets & Info:here 📸 Follow: @mhcomedyhour

🏳️‍🌈 DeAnne Smith is Queer, as in Funny ➕ 2nd date added!

🗓 When: Saturday Sept 21st & Sunday Sept 22nd, 7:30 doors 8pm show 📍 Where: The Lost Church 988 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA 94133 🎟  Tickets & Info: here 📸 Follow: @safewordscomedy on instagram We’re excited to announce we’re adding a 2nd date to DeAnne Smith’s San Francisco stop. DeAnne will now be erforming at the Lost Church on Saturday Sept 21st AND Sunday Sept 22nd. Get ready to meet DeAnne Smith. While you’ve likely already heard of them; They recently were featured in Hannah Gadsby’s Gender Agenda on Netflix, opening for Hannah shortly after at the Fox Theater in Oakland. They’ve been on The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, Comedians of the World, Last Comic Standing, and more. However, this is the first time you’ll be able to see them headline their own show in the Bay Area. Joining DeAnne and Wonder Dave on the show will be special guest Rea Kapur!

🎭 The Ruckus Revival 🗓 When: Every 2nd Thursday of the month Doors at 7 PM, Show at 8 PM ⏭️Next Show: August 8th 📍Where: Continental Club, Oakland 🎟 Tickets & Info: Join the chaos 📸Follow: @theruckusrevival

Hosted by Jamie DeWolf and Wonder Dave, enjoy an evening of circus, aerial, burlesque, and comedy! California’s largest and longest running variety show has been called "The Fight Club of Underground Art" by the Huffington Post.

🎤 Hysteria Comedy Open Mic

🗓 When: Every 2nd (and 5th) Wednesday of the month.

⏭️ Next Show: July 31st 7pm 📍 Where: SF Eagle, San Francisco 📸 Follow: @hysteriacomedy 🎟 Register for free

This month is the rare 5th Wednesday we means we’ve got a bonus Hysteria Open Mics on the way. Join us for an open mic night focused on empowering women and queer voices in comedy. Free entry. Enjoy the Queer Comedy Stars of tomorrow TODAY!

Hope to make you laugh in the near future. Also stay tuned to @teamwonderdave on social media for exciting announcements about upcoming NEW projects! We’ve got some exciting things coming your way real soon.

Excelsior! -Wonder Dave

[slaygentford]

remember av club announcing Jacob being cast as the quote whiniest vampire unquote before they witnessed his brown orbs. then the tune changed didn't it miss av club

[psych0ruinz]

Please tell me about your twd ocs I need to know everything abt them ♡♡♡

ohohoh!!!!

Dr. Constance "Connor" Hayes (She/Her) is a microbiologist in medical research in her late 50s- early 60s when everything first goes down. Because of this she helps work on a version of the "cure" and since they dont have any test subjects she gets it tested on herself. Sadly soon after they loose the lab to the outbreak. So she starts traveling around, trying to find somewhere safe. She ends up becoming a worker at the Sanctuary, mostly working in the gardens and keeping to herself. She goes by Connor and she can't let people know who she is. Especially here. Its when Eugene is sent to the Sanctuary she packs her things, ready to leave any moment. She can tell she shouldn't stay much longer. She finally leaves when Sasha breaks in. From there she focuses on her medical research, trying to stuff herself with as many homemade diy cures as she can. Using herself as her test subject. She knows she's too much of a coward to find out if any of them work. She doesn't want to know and deep inside she knows it wont matter. She could still be torn apart by walkers or killed by another person. But now it feels more sunk cost fallacy to her. So at the "end" point of her story its her being closed off and only moving when she needs to find a place that has at least a little power or gas to fill a generator. She's cold hearted and apathetic, fine with killing but when it comes to her medical research she is self sacrificing and wouldn't want to get anyone hurt from it. (by the time of the dead city time line she is old and still very much kicking) she has long grey hair which she keeps up in a messy bun and has big glasses which cover grey eyes, she kinda dresses like Milo from Atlantis with a tank top and pants tucked into boots. She uses a rifle and hatchet.

Fiona Gurro (She/They) is a teen from a private school where she was class president as well as president to the av club. she hid her bitterness and anger behind false smiles and the apocalypse really let her personality shine. She has become a radio host in the end of the world, mostly talking about whatever and playing music. She keeps track of the days and every so often during the day she will announce the date. She personally doesn't care but she knows other people do and the more people care about her radio station the more sway she has. The more likely people are to believe anything she says, if you cross her you will end up hunted. but she doesn't leave her station much, she only goes out for water and food. food is harder to find and she isnt a great hunter so her office is piled high with books on foraging. she also had to learn to take care of her solar panels, winters are hard for her as she has to keep them clear. She has no fighting experience but is quick and cautious. (blonde buzzed hair and covered in freckles with blue eyes)

Pomline Jones (She/Her) is an ex-catholic from an family who beliefs are more cult-like then actually religious. She is in her late twenties and was married to a abusive man about 15 years older than her. She didn't make these choices her family did, while she still has some religious beliefs they aren't so strict and cruel anymore. She kinda faux punk, half shaven head and all leather and always has a pickaxe on her belt. She's a loner and an angry violent one at that. All her bottled up emotions have made her volatile. She wont hesitate to threaten and kill. Like she did to her perfectly clean catholic husband. A big thing for her is making food taste good so she always has spices in her bag, people leave them behind so she finds that they are easy to get her hands on. (black hair with sharp green eyes and too much eye makeup)

Charlie "Creep" Andrews (He/It) is what some people call a stalker, he is always watching and quick on his feet. He can scale buildings swiftly and its all for his own gain. That gain is making people uncomfortable. He didn't choose to be called Creep it was just a nickname people called him because he wears a respirator and goggles with a hoodie and just watches. he is always just around every corner. waiting. for what, just for fun. If you ask him what he did before the apocalypse he will shrug and give a different vauge answer each time. But be careful because he is surprising quick in melee combat, he isn't strong but quite dexterous. He can put a screwdrivee through your eye the moment you glance away and he uses distractions as a boon while around others. (brown mousy hair with brown eyes, just some short guy who bites)

[thecrownnet]

Queen Elizabeth II won TWO posthumous BAFTAs in 2023

Memorable Moment for her skit with Paddington, and

Live Event for The Queen and her Platinum Jubilee

[…] one of the BAFTA TV categories is “Memorable Moment,” which (unlike Reality & Constructed Factual) is exactly what it sounds like: The best general thing that happened on TV (or “the telly”) in the past year. It’s also the only award voted on by the public, which means it counts more than all of the other categories, and so it’s fitting that this year’s winner involved the one thing that can bring all citizens of the United Kingdom together. (AV Club)

Actually, Queen Elizabeth II ‘has already won a BAFTA; in 2013, she was presented with an Honorary BAFTA for her "tireless support" of the British film and television industry. "I am delighted that this evening has given us the opportunity to give something back. I have the great honour to announce that we are to present Her Majesty with an honorary BAFTA today, in recognition of her outstanding patronage of the film and television industries," BAFTA's chairman at the time, John Willis, said.’ (Town and Country Magazine)

Queen Elizabeth II receives an honorary BAFTA from actor Kenneth Branagh in 2013. WPA POOL//GETTY IMAGES

[sankta-starkova]

LETTERMAN

019; quinceañero

previous chapter | next chapter | masterlist

summary: the one where ej and andy realise that there may be some romantic feelings between them that hadn't been there before, or had they? the new year test this revelation

wordcount: 1.5k

Nini had decided to stay in Salt Lake, and now, the whole drama department but Carlos were standing in Sebs barn.

"Why do I hear sheep but not see sheep?" Ashlyn asked in a panic and a sheep started bleating.

EJ jumped back with a girly scream and Andy laughed, like full belly laugh, "You sounded like a girl!" She said between laughs.

"Okay, okay, its not that funny, " EJ said, wrapping an arm around her shoulders as he pulled her back up, trying to stop her laughing.

"I'm sure Seb and Gina have a good reason for bringing us to his barn so late on a school night," Ricky stated.

"We gathered you guys here because I've had an idea," Gina explained, "And because we only have 48 hours,"

They all listened as they explained that they wanted to throw Carlos a quinceñearo. Andy thought it was a great idea and so did everyone else.

"For Carlos!" Ricky yelled out, placing his hand in the middle as everyone else put their hands on top, cheering.

Two days later and EJ and Andy turned up at the party in Sebs barn, helping to set everything up.

"Have I mentioned that you look good," EJ whispered in her ear as they walked up to help.

He was wearing a crimson coloured suit and she accidentally matched, wearing a dark red dress.

"Yeah, when I left my house and in the car ride over here," she replied as she helped set up his camera.

EJ just blushed, "Uh...Well, you do, uh," he stumbled over his words and she just laughed.

"Its fine, you look good as well," she said, winking at him before bending over to grab some boxes.

He watched her in awe for a second, his cheeks flushed red at her winking at him.

She finished unpacking the boxes and came back to where he was setting up the camera for the video that they were making for Carlos.

Andy was standing with EJ because they were both in the AV club, rolling the tape on Mr Mazzara when Miss Jenn ran over announcing Carlos will be here soon.

"Look at this fancy interview set up, don't forget to get my good side later," She said jokingly.

"Which side is that?" Mr Mazzara asked as she walked away.

EJ and Andy looked at each other, laughing slightly, "Smooth," EJ said.

"Cut, that is not going on the birthday tribute. And don't get me started on your flirting techniques Mr Caswell," Mazzara said.

EJs face went bright red at the insinuation and luckily Andy didn't understand because he knew that would just ruin their friendships.

They all got in their places and the doors opened, everyone yelling happy birthday to Carlos as him and Seb walkes in.

Nini and Ricky got on stage, calling Gina up as they walked off to allow her her mo.ent in the spotlight.

"When I saw the dance you posted, it reminded me of myself and how dance was such an escape, so I'm recreating it for you today," Gina explained with a smile.

She performed the exact dance that he had choreographed when he was in seventh grade.

That just made him smile, tearing up slightly as he watched it. Andy and EJ filmed the whole thing, cheering her on.

Gina called Carlos up on stage as she crowned him, everyone cheering as the dance ended.

They filmed some other videos before Seb got on stage, sitting at the piano.

He sighed, "Carlos, I think you know there is nothing greater than the love we share for power ballads originally song by iconic women," he said with a laugh.

Carlos chuckled, nodding his head. Andy looked over from where she was sitting and smiled at him.

"And you're my boyfriend but your also sort of my hero," Seb said before explaining that he was always a fan after watching the video when he was younger.

He performed 'The Climb' Carlos tearing up as he watched the performance with a smile on his face.

When he was finished, everyone applauded him, watching as the couple shared that moment.

Carlos jumped up, walking over to Deb and pulling him into a hug, "Where did you come from and why am I so lucky," he said before they kissed.

Everyone called for a speach, Seb grabbing Carlos a microphone.

"I'm not sure how I can thank you all for this, I've never been speechless," he said and everyone chuckled.

"I've done a little research, and you should be choosing your madrina," Seb explained, passing the mic back.

He chose his madrina to be the one person who always understood him completely, Miss Jenn.

Afterwards, EJ was filming her, watching as she sobbed with mascara running down her cheeks.

She ran off, Mazzara cornering EJ, "You have done well tonight," he said with a smile.

"If felt good to do this," EJ explained before looking over at Andy, his gaze landing on her.

She was standing with Ricky and Big Red, her head thrown back laughing at some joke Big Red had made.

"So, who was the most interesting interview?" Mazzara asked.

"Sorry, what," EJ asked, having heard none of what he was saying as he took his gaze off of Andy.

But Mazzara saw him gazing over at Andy and he smiled, "Nothing," he said before walking off.

Later that night, EJ and Andy were dancing in the crowd when he realised he had to tell her.

He could feel his heart pounding in his chest and he wondered if it was the right time.

As he looked at her, so peaceful and at ease in his arms, he knew he couldn't wait any longer in telling her the way that he felt aboit her.

"I like you," he blurted out and she faltered, hands tensing on his shoulders.

"What?" She questioned, suddenly hyper aware if the fact that his hands were on her hips.

She froze. Her mind went completely blank as she questioned whether he had really said what she thought he'd said.

"I really like you, like, I think about you all the time like you, that I want you to be my girlfriend like you," EJ explained, his face red as he finally admitted it.

He started to feel self conscious. Every bone in his body was telling him that he had done the wrong thing and had just ruined his friendship with her.

"I-" she paused, pulling away from him. He was scared she was going to reject him but instead she grabbed his hand, "Come here,"

She pulled him outside, the two looking around before they stood in the middle of the field in the back of Sebs House.

EJ could feel his stomach doing flips. This was where she was going to beat him up for saying that and leave him to die.

He had this sickening feeling that he had just lost the best, best friend that he had ever had or ever would have.

"I like you too," Andy admitted and he smiled, placing both his hands on either of his face.

He let out a sigh of relief and she smiled as all the tension and fear left his body, his shoulders slumping down.

He smiled at her, unable to take his eyes off of her. All he could think about was how this beautiful woman had feelings for him.

"Can I-" he paused to smile at her, "-Can I kiss you?" He asked.

"Yes," she whispered, the two leaning in and kissing.

It was perfect and she never wanted to let go of him ever again. But as they pulled away, they rested their foreheads against each other with a giddy smile.

Well, that was until they leaned back in for a kiss, his hand resting on her waist as he pulled her back in closer.

He held her flush against him, one hand on her waist and the other on the back of her neck as he kissed her softly, reveling in the moment.

"Well, wasn't expecting this," Mazzara said as he saw the two kissing against the barn.

They both jumped back to see their teacher standing there, arms folded across his chest, a smug look on his face.

"Don't tell anyone," EJ blurted our before looking at Andy, "I want to wait before we tell people,"

"Of course, my lips are sealed," Mazzara said, winking at them before walking back out.

Their cheeks were both burning red from their teacher having caught them kissing.

But then they broke out into a fit of laughter, her hand falling into his. It was the most surreal moment and they were both happier than ever.

"Does that mean, I'm your girlfriend now?" Andy asked, looking up at EJ after Mazzara walked out.

"If you want to be my girlfriend," he said, a blush spreading over his cheeks. He had never felt that way about anyone before, the fluttery feeling in his stomach as he looked at her.

"Course I do," she whispered, pulling him in for another kiss.

[fearsmagazine]

Episode four of The eX-Files podcast hosted by Jenny Owen Youngs and Kristin Russo is out now

Episode four, “Conduit,” of The eX-Files, an “X-Files” rewatch podcast from acclaimed podcast hosts Jenny Owen Youngs and Kristin Russo, is out now. New episodes follow every Wednesday and are available on all major podcast platforms.

The eX-Files is created under Russo and Young’s podcast collective Buffering: A Rewatch Adventure—part of the ongoing collection of rewatch podcasts under the duo’s creative direction.

“Conduit” follows episode three, “Squeeze,” which featured Song Exploder host/creator Hrishikesh Hirway. Future season guests will be announced soon.

On The eX-Files, Youngs—who grew up on a steady diet of Mulder and Scully—and Russo—who’s never seen it—dig into every episode of the seminal 90s sci-fi, “The X-Files,” spoiler free, one at a time. The podcast’s namesake—The eX-Files spelled with an “e”—is a credit to the duo’s relationship: in addition to being longtime business partners, Youngs and Russo are also ex-wives. The new series finds Youngs and Russo at their very best, as they engage in critical discussions on aliens, actors and ’90s nostalgia through a queer and feminist lens. Youngs and Russo’s first project—what started as a podcast venture between a married couple to explore every episode of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer”—turned into a pop culture phenomenon that sold out live shows across the country. Their infectious chemistry, coupled with their joyful and empathetic exploration of story, earned Buffering the Vampire Slayera spot on the top of rewatch podcast lists from The New York Times, Entertainment Weekly, Esquire, TIME and more.

Singer-songwriter Jenny Owen Youngs has released numerous albums and EPs, including last year’s It’s Dangerous to Go Alone, and has toured worldwide with the likes of Regina Spektor, Frank Turner and Aimee Mann, among others. She recently co-wrote the chart topping, five-time platinum single “High Hopes” by Panic! At The Disco, as well as co-writing songs with Ingrid Michaelson, Pitbull, Briston Maroney, Shungudzo and others. Her solo music has been featured on TV shows such as “Weeds,” “Grey’s Anatomy,” “Nurse Jackie” and “Bojack Horseman” and has seen praise from The AV Club, The New York Times, Stereogum and NPR.

Kristin Russo is a writer, educator and consultant with a focus on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) issues. She is the author of This is a Book for Parents of Gay Kids (Chronicle, 2014) and founded the educational website My Kid Is Gay. She also worked as host and producer of “First Person,” a video series on gender and sexuality from PBS Digital and WNET. She holds a Masters in Gender Studies from the CUNY Graduate Center, has spoken at hundreds of universities nationwide—Harvard, Stanford and NYU included—and works with large-scale companies like Hyatt, Virgin Galactic, and Toyota on allyship & inclusion.

You can listen to Episode four, “Conduit,” of The eX-Files HERE.

[if-you-fan-a-fire]

"ARREST OF three men today has led to a clean-up in the Royce Ave. bank robbery of 10 days ago, police claim. Hector LeBlanc (left) was picked up in an Toronto house while William Lake (right) and Stanley Scarfield were captured at Bartonville, a Hamilton suburb, wearing air force uniforms.

SMALL-SIZED arsenal was confiscated in the seizure of the men, including a Sten gun and a double-barrelled shotgun. Cash of $9,000 was also seized. Toronto bank was robbed of $12,549.

MAKES ARREST ON LAST DAY Detective John McArthur, serving his last day on the city police force before retiring on pension after 30 years' service, arrested Hector LeBlanc, one of the three men charged with robbing the Bank of Montreal branch on Royce Ave." - from the Toronto Star. September 11, 1943. Page 2.

"BANDIT GUNS confronted Elta McClellan (left) and Kathleen McLean when they arrived at the Royal Bank in Wheatley yesterday for work. The guns were held by five men who took $34,000 from the vault.

AT GUN-POINT, Miss Jean Tait, accountant, was prodded into opening the vault.

BANK MANAGER William Forshee, held captive with his wife throughout the night, stands at the door of the vault.

ROY HOPPER, 13, was one of the two boys who saw the men enter the bank manager's apartment.

HIS COMPANION was Ken Julien. 12. They never did sound a warning because they thought it was a "false alarm." - from the Toronto Star. September 11, 1943. Page 25.

"CHARGE THREE MEN WITH A ROYCE AVE. BANK ROBBERY," Toronto Star. September 11, 1943. Page 25. --- Two Are Nabbed in Bartonville and One in Toronto --- PAIR WORE WINGS ---- Arrests of three men at the point of drawn guns and the seizure of a Sten machine-gun, loaded revolvers and almost $9,000 in cash, was announced today at police headquarters. The three men are charged with machine-gun robbery of the Royce Ave., branch of the Bank of Montreal 10 days ago, when $12,549 was stolen.

Inspector of Detectives M. M. Mulholland announced that the men held and charged with the armed robbery are: William Lake, alias Dell Harris, 25. Toronto; Hector Le Blanc, alias John Rivers, 25, of Montreal, and Stanley Scrafield, 22, of Long Branch.

Scrafield and Lake were arrested at Bartonville, a Hamilton suburb. when visiting a friend, police said. Le Blanc was arrested in a house on Bartlett Ave., Toronto, by Detective John McArthur, who is serving his last day on the city force after 30 years service. McArthur is retiring on pension.

When arrested, Lake and Le Blanc were wearing air force uniforms. Lake had a D.F.M. ribbon on his tunic. Both tunics also carried wings. In the Bartonville house, police said they found $3,600 in cash in a club bag and a loaded revolver, also a large quantity of jewelry.

Hamilton detectives and Dets. Nimmo and Tong went to a Hamilton hotel and searched a room. In a suit case, police say, they found $2,073 and a loaded revolver, which was identified as the one stolen from the Bank of Montreal, Royce Ave. on the day of the hold-up.

Lake and Le Blanc are also charged with armed robbery of the People's Watch Co., Dundas St. W.. last month when jewelry and $10 were stolen. Scrafield and Wm. Bennett, 22 of Lake Shore Rd., Lakeview, and Harry Franklin, 24, Bartle Ave., are charged with receiving the stolen jewelry. Franklin was under arrest two days ago and Bennett was arrested yesterday.

Lake, Scrafield, Bennett and Le Blanc are also charged with shooting with intent. Police state H. D. Smith of Kingston surprised four men attempting to steal his automobile on Aug. 11 and in a chase was fired on.

Lake, Serafield, Bennett and Le Blanc are also charged with the armed robbery of a taxi cab driver in Montreal in August. Police say the driver was thrown out of his machine on the highway outside of Montreal after being robbed of $20. This car, recovered today at London, Ont., was used in the Bank of Montreal hold-up in Toronto, Inspector of Detectives Mulholland stated.

In "A" police court before Magistrate Browne today Scrafield, Le Blanc and Lake were remanded until Sept. 17. No bail was set. The trio are also charged with shooting with intent to maim R. Purton, manager of the bank.

Officers working on the case were Inspector Arthur Levitt, Det- Sergt. Hector Barber and Det. Lister Sullivan. Det-Sergt. Maxwell Richardson worked in co-operation with Hamilton police.

[yestolerancepro]

Tolerance Project  Extra John Williams  A Fans Tribuite

Introduction

Today the 28th June marks the end of one of my favourite composers film careers to mark the occasion I have decided to release an updated blog that was  first published last year with a load of new material,

At the age of 90 and according to Google the man who composed over 600 pieces of music for film TV and classical works has announced his desire to retire from the film world. His final film he will write music for will be the  5th and final entry in the Indiana Jones Franchise. Indiana Jones And The Dial of Destiny to watch a trailer for the film click here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eQfMbSe7F2g&list=PL17vqAEJv6CXTpRdOfQdpiOim4ammXiwX&index=11

John Towner Williams (born February 8, 1932 is an American composer, conductor and pianist. In a career that has spanned seven decades, he has composed some of the most popular, recognizable and critically acclaimed film scores in cinematic history. Williams has won 25 Grammy Awards, seven British Academy Film Awards, five Academy Awards and four Golden Globe Awards. With 52 Academy Award nominations, he is the second most-nominated individual, after Walt Disney. His compositions are considered the epitome of film music and he is considered among the greatest composers in the history of cinema.

Click on the above link to read another article on how John Williams retirement marks the end of an era for film music this article comes from the RTE website https://www.rte.ie/brainstorm/2022/1130/1339123-john-williams-composer-retirement-jaws-et-star-wars-indiana-jones-harry-potter-jurassic-park/

Also this article from the french Lemonade website tells us how John Williams composers unforgetable soundtracks https://www.lemonde.fr/en/culture/video/2023/06/25/how-john-williams-composes-unforgettable-soundtracks-from-star-wars-to-harry-potter_6037212_30.html 

Also the AV club lists his top 20 soundtracks of all time  https://www.avclub.com/john-williams-greatest-film-scores-ranked-1850567897

Williams has composed for many critically acclaimed and popular movies, including the Star Wars saga, Jaws, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, Superman, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, the first two Home Alone films, the Indiana Jones films, the first two Jurassic Park films, Schindler’s List, and the first three Harry Potter films. Williams has also composed numerous classical concertos and other works for orchestral ensembles and solo instruments.

Speaking as a personal fan of John Williams I was first introduced to his work when I bought a double CD version of his music for the first star wars film for my birthday. I loved it but it took me a while to get the other soundtrack in the series. I didn’t get round to buying Empire and Return of the Jedi till the special edition Soundtrack releases in 1997.

I loved those as well and I have since bought all of the Star Wars Soundtracks that John Williams worked on.

Williams like John Barry before him had a magical talent for making the music come alive in my head to create scenes and adventures that I never saw on the cinema screen.

The music become the star of the film itself John Williams did this in many of his great film scores 2 of the best examples being Jaws and Close Encounters of the Third Kind both of these films were directored by Steven Speilberg Both John and Steven explained how they made music the star in both of these films in a recent interview you can see it by clicking on this link https://boingboing.net/2023/03/10/steven-spielberg-and-john-williams-on-how-music-became-an-actor-in-jaws-and-close-encounters.html

His excellent score for the first Indiana Jones film the Raiders of the lost ark also had the same effect on me and because of that its always been a film I have enjoyed re- watching seeing it several times over the years.

Williams music has also helped me to enjoy films that I don’t really like these include his scores for both Superman the movie and E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial being a good example.

His music also opened up the doorways to other worlds like his work on the Harry Potter films I never read the books and wasnt really interested in going to see the movies till I was persuaded to by a good friend and thanks to her I saw Harry Potters first two adventures on the big screen John Williams main theme for Harry Potter was magical no pun intended.

John Williams The Tolerance Project connection

When we decided to make the Tolerance film in 1999 we decided the best way to approach the film would be through the medium of a dramatic comedy this we would do through a series of film spoofs the first one was the most obvious was Star Wars if you talked to any child of my generation who grew up in the 80s Star wars was the big one with its space battles Special effects and that music by John Williams for the Tolerance film we used the blockbuster main theme to tell our story

Jaws is a 1975 American thriller film directed by Steven Spielberg, based on the 1974 novel by Peter Benchley.It stars Roy Scheider as police chief Martin Brody who, with the help of a marine biologist (Richard Dreyfuss) and a professional shark hunter (Robert Shaw), hunts a man-eating great white shark that is attacking beachgoers at a summer resort town.

Jaws was the prototypical summer blockbuster, regarded as a watershed moment in motion picture history, and it won several awards for its music and editing. It was the highest-grossing film until the release of Star Wars in 1977

We used the Famous Jaws theme called Main title/First Victim which runs to just 22 seconds,is used twice in the Tolerance film.

 First when Robert played by David Smith on his way to a job interview norrowly avoids being run over  He is saved by a passer-by, played by Dan McTiernan, who was also our first Assistant Director. When Robert is about to be run over you can hear the Jaws theme for the first time. You hear it again when Robert meets the infamous Mr Grosenberg. To learn more about the making of the original Jaws film click here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7jjHLJlDZo&list=PL17vqAEJv6CV1syq4_fFKgBwSqGdJzH9z&index=275

Thank you John Williams for introducing me to the world of movie magic

Update

John Williams announces he is not retiring after all to read this news story click here:John Williams Cancels Any Retirement Plans - Dark Horizons

 Pictures The Man himself

Posters from the various films his worked on Jaws from 1975

One of the original Star Wars Posters from 1977

Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones

Artwork for Harry Potter

Poster for Superman the Movie 1978

ET 1982

John Williams music as it appeared in the Tolerance film

Our Star Wars crawl which tells you about the Tolerance project and what your about to watch

Jaws theme

Robert is saved from being run over by a passer by Jaws theme used again to introduce Mr Grosenberg played by Actor Tony Green

If you have read this blog and want to help Tolerance click on the link below https://gofund.me/5cf25de4

Thank you to Wikipedia for the information on the life of John Williams and the film Jaws

Also thank you the Minty comedic arts Youtube page for the videos on Superman the Movie Home Alone Home Alone II lost in New York Close Encounters of the third kind Indianna Jones and the Raiders of the Lost Ark And ET The Extra Terrestrial Thank you to the Oliver Harper Youtube channel for his retrospective video reviews of Raiders of the Lost Ark and  Superman The Movie

Bonus content

Documentaries

To learn more about the making of Close Encounters of the third kind click here

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQFCEuJrtmw&list=PL17vqAEJv6CV1syq4_fFKgBwSqGdJzH9z&index=277

To watch a video called 10 things you didn’t know about Superman the Movie click here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDPl1eCIFvo&list=PL17vqAEJv6CV1syq4_fFKgBwSqGdJzH9z&index=278

To watch a video called 10 amazing facts about Home alone click here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bNA1-lgphkk&list=PL17vqAEJv6CV1syq4_fFKgBwSqGdJzH9z&index=279

To watch a video called 10 amazing facts about Home alone 2 click here

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lm5FD-ZrsMk&list=PL17vqAEJv6CV1syq4_fFKgBwSqGdJzH9z&index=280&t=3s

To watch a short film called 10 amazing facts about Raiders of the Lost ark click here

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uyb1Gm43Dfc&list=PL17vqAEJv6CXTpRdOfQdpiOim4ammXiwX&index=9&t=18s

To watch a film called 10 things you didn’t know about ET click here

 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qKwtCb5zWpU&list=PL17vqAEJv6CV1syq4_fFKgBwSqGdJzH9z&index=258

To watch a retrospective review on Indiana Jones and the Raiders of the lost Ark from the Oilver Harper YouTube channel click here  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ngyfP84wZiI

To watch a retrospective review of Superman 1978 the movie from the Oliver Harper YouTube channel click here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CEtID1kJ_Ho

To watch a retrospective review of Home Alone 1990 from the Oliver Harper Youtube Channel click here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6iMXXrptBFI

Trailers

Superman The Movie 1978  click here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wOkb8pxtTfk&list=PL17vqAEJv6CV1syq4_fFKgBwSqGdJzH9z&index=277&t=45s

ET 1982 Click here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZNInG8kSiA&list=PL17vqAEJv6CV1syq4_fFKgBwSqGdJzH9z&index=278&t=23s

Indiana Jones and The Raiders of the lost ark 1981 click here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0xQSIdSRlAk&list=PL17vqAEJv6CV1syq4_fFKgBwSqGdJzH9z&index=279&t=34s

Harry Potter and the PHILOSOPHER'S STONE 2001  click here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mNgwNXKBEW0&list=PL17vqAEJv6CV1syq4_fFKgBwSqGdJzH9z&index=280&t=6s

Star Wars 1977 Click here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1g3_CFmnU7k&list=PL17vqAEJv6CV3Y85xphI3YrPVq3Q5wI_7&index=23&t=11s

Further reading

the Collider film website published a list of his most iconic film scores ranked you can read the list by clicking here there are some on there that I have heard of before now https://collider.com/john-williams-most-iconic-movie-soundtracks-ranked/#39-indiana-jones-and-the-raiders-of-the-lost-arc-39-1981

The Mary Sue film website also published a list of his 12 best film Scores you can read that by clicking herehttps://www.themarysue.com/best-john-williams-scores-ranked/

[dsp-consultants]

Audio Video Consultancy: Elevating Communication and Connection in Saudi Arabia

In today's fast-paced world, audio-video (AV) systems are an essential component of various facilities, enabling seamless communication and improving the overall user experience. From corporate settings to entertainment venues, AV solutions enhance how people interact, share information, and stay connected. Whether it's a conference room, auditorium, sports arena, or meeting space, effective AV designs are crucial to creating environments that foster communication, collaboration, and engagement.

At DSP Consultants, we specialize in providing audio video consultancy services across Saudi Arabia, bringing cutting-edge AV designs that are both functional and cost-effective. Our team of AVIXA-certified experts is dedicated to delivering bespoke solutions that meet the unique needs of each project. We understand the growing demand for high-quality, customized AV systems that support a variety of spaces and purposes, and we are committed to crafting innovative designs that ensure the highest standards of performance.

The Importance of Audio Video Consultancy

The demand for AV consultancy services continues to rise as businesses, educational institutions, and entertainment venues realize the importance of having reliable and high-quality audio-video solutions. Whether for internal communications, presentations, entertainment, or security, AV systems serve as the backbone of modern facilities, ensuring that sound and visuals are delivered clearly and effectively.

Key Areas Requiring AV Consultancy:

Conference Rooms: For successful business meetings, high-quality video conferencing and clear audio solutions are a must. AV consultants design systems that enable effortless communication, making sure all participants can hear and see each other without interruption.

Intercom and Building Announcement Systems: In large facilities, having an efficient intercom and announcement system ensures clear communication for safety, alerts, and general information. AV experts design systems that integrate seamlessly with building infrastructure.

Auditoriums and Sports Arenas: Large venues require sophisticated AV solutions to manage sound clarity and visual presentations for large audiences. Tailored AV designs optimize acoustics and video projection, ensuring that every seat in the house has the best viewing and listening experience.

Meeting Rooms and Clubs: Whether it’s for intimate meetings or social gatherings, AV systems in these spaces need to be flexible and intuitive. Our consultancy services focus on creating adaptable systems that enhance the atmosphere, ensuring easy operation and high-quality audio-visual experiences.

Tailored Audio Video Designs for Every Need

At DSP Consultants, we pride ourselves on our ability to create audio video solutions that are not only functional but also perfectly suited to the specific requirements of each client. We take into account the type of space, its intended use, and the client’s budget to design systems that provide exceptional performance. Our AVIXA-certified consultants leverage their expertise to recommend the best technologies for each project, ensuring that every system is easy to use, reliable, and future-proof.

Immersive Previews: Visualizing Your AV Design

One of the standout features of our consultancy services is our use of 3D previews and immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences. Before implementing an AV design, we offer clients a chance to visualize the end result through interactive VR simulations. This approach provides a clearer understanding of how the final system will look and function, helping to eliminate any uncertainties before the installation phase begins.

These previews also help in fine-tuning designs and ensuring that the AV systems are fully aligned with the space’s acoustics, lighting, and aesthetic needs. Our VR simulations offer clients the confidence that their AV system will meet their expectations and perform as required once installed.

Why Choose DSP Consultants for Your Audio Video Consultancy Needs?

Expertise: Our team is composed of certified AV experts with years of experience in designing and implementing audio-video systems across various industries. We stay ahead of trends, integrating the latest technologies and best practices into our solutions.

Tailored Solutions: We understand that every project is unique. That’s why we take a personalized approach to ensure that every design we create aligns with the specific needs of the space and client.

Cutting-Edge Technology: We use advanced tools like 3D modeling and VR to provide clients with an immersive experience of their AV systems before installation, ensuring they get the best possible result.

Cost-Effective Designs: We focus on delivering high-quality, budget-friendly solutions, making sure you get the best value for your investment.

Conclusion

As the demand for effective communication and multimedia solutions continues to grow, audio video consultancy has become a critical aspect of modern design. DSP Consultants in Saudi Arabia is committed to providing exceptional AV consultancy services, designing systems that meet the evolving needs of various industries. With our expertise, cutting-edge technology, and focus on tailored solutions, we ensure that your space is equipped with the best AV systems that elevate communication and enhance user experience.

Let DSP Consultants guide your next project to success with our innovative, professional AV design solutions. Reach out today to begin creating spaces where communication and connection thrive. Please contact us for your inquiries on info@dsp-consultants.com.

[cool-in-brooksville-fl]

Brooksville Resort-Style Apartments

The Enclave on Ayers is currently offering its limited-time special for the residents who move in by 11/30 and receive 2 months free. Amazing, right? This is why I love this Brooksville resort-style apartments. This provides residents with top-notch amenities and various floor plans. Residents can also look and lease within 48 hours of their tour and waive their app and admin fees. The Enclave on Ayers offers a resort-style pool, grilling stations, a social lawn, and game tables for relaxation and outdoor gatherings. Residents can call (352) 290-6824 for details and specials on other floor plans. The community also provides a vibrant setting for community events and get-togethers.

Life in Brooksville, FL

Life in Brooksville, FL, is simply amazing. Let me tell you why. Brooksville, FL, has a population of 7,711 and an 8.9% lower standard of living than the national average. The city offers a variety of attractions, including historic homes, outdoor activities, and the May-Stringer House Museum. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the Withlacoochee State Forest, Chinsegut Wildlife and Environmental Area, and annual festivals like the Blueberry Festival, Weeki Wachee Swamp Fest, and Hernando County Fair. The area also has numerous golf courses, including the award-winning World Woods Golf Club courses Pine Barrens and Rolling Woods and beautiful beaches like Pine Island Beach.

Hernando Heritage Museum

Step back in time at the Hernando Heritage Museum, where the rich history of Hernando County unfolds. This museum has amazing and wonderful collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that reflect the area's Native American roots, pioneer history, and early 20th-century growth. Explore historic buildings like an old schoolhouse and a general store to gain insight into the lives of early settlers. Those visitors will be attracted to the artifacts found in this museum. Plus, the enthusiastic staff and the volunteers are eager to share stories from the past which is a truly educational experience for all ages.

Innovation to Improve Communication Launched

Hernando County has launched Engage Hernando, a digital engagement platform designed to improve communication and collaboration between residents and local government. The platform aims to empower the community, allowing citizens to actively participate in local governance and civic life. Also, the Engage Hernando gives a user-friendly interface for residents to share ideas, provide feedback, and stay informed about county initiatives. The key features of this innovation include interactive forums, surveys, and event announcements, making it easier for citizens to engage with local leaders and contribute to the decision-making process. The platform is part of the county's ongoing efforts to embrace technology and improve civic engagement online.

Link to Map Driving Direction

May-Stringer House 601 Museum Ct, Brooksville, FL 34601, United States

Head west on Museum Ct toward May Ave 105 ft

Turn right onto E Jefferson St 0.8 mi

Turn left onto S Broad St/W Jefferson St/N Mildred Ave 233 ft

Continue straight onto US-41 S/S Broad St/W Jefferson St  Continue to follow US-41 S/S Broad St 9.3 mi

Turn right onto County Line Rd  Destination will be on the right 0.8 mi

Enclave on Ayers 15592 Enclave Way, Brooksville, FL 34604, United States