#booker transportation

[diamondpaintingworld]

The ultimate guide to finding an independent owner operator truck driver

There are many benefits to being an independent owner operator (IOO) truck driver. In this article, we'll discuss the top five reasons to consider becoming an IOO, and give you tips on how to find the best fit for your driving style and needs.

When it comes to finding a truck driver, there are many factors to consider. You need someone who is reliable and can handle long hours. But what about personality? Do you want someone who is chatty or introverted? Do you want someone who is sociable or professional? In this blog post, we will explore all of these factors in detail and give you the ultimate guide to finding an independent owner operator truck driver. From checking references to understanding the industry, everything you need to know is here.

What is an independent owner operator?

An IOO is a type of truck driver who operates their own commercial vehicle. This comes with many benefits, such as flexibility and control over their hours and earnings. However, it can also be more challenging than driving for a company, since you are responsible for everything from your independent truck driver to your income. If you're interested in becoming an IOO, here are some tips to get started.

First, find a truck that's right for you. You'll need to consider your skills and experience, as well as the type of truck you want to drive. There are several types of IOOs out there, including owner-operators of large trucks, owner-operators of medium-sized trucks, or solo drivers operating smaller vehicles.

Next, prepare yourself for the challenge. It can be tough work owning and operating your own truck all by yourself, but with the right preparation it can be rewarding both financially and emotionally. Make sure you have all the necessary insurance policies in place, attend training sessions if necessary, and stay up-to-date on industry changes so that you're able to run your business effectively.

If you're ready to start an IOO career, there are plenty of resources available online. Start by researching different types of trucks and how they operate before making a decision about which route is best for you. Once you've found the perfect truck and prepared yourself for the challenge ahead, don't hesitate to get started!

How to find an independent truck driver owner operator

If you are looking to become an independent future operators truck driver, there are a few things you need to do first. First and foremost, research the different types of truck driving jobs out there. There are many options available to you, so it is important to know what type of truck driving job best suits your skills and interests. Once you have determined what type of truck driving job is right for you, find a reputable company who is hiring independent owner operators. Next, prepare yourself by completing all the necessary licensing and background checks. Finally, get ready to hit the road!

The benefits of being an IOO

There are many benefits to being an independent owner operator (IOO) truck driver. In this article, we'll discuss the top five reasons to consider becoming an IOO, and give you tips on how to find the best fit for your driving style and needs.

1. You Control Your Career Path

As an IOO truck driver, you have control over your career path. You can choose when and where you work, and set your own schedule. This gives you the freedom to work when it's convenient for you – no early mornings or long hours required! Plus, with less overhead costs associated with owning a business, there's more money left over for enjoying life on the road!

2. You Earn More Money than a Truck Driver on Charter Fleets

One of the biggest benefits of being an IOO truck driver is that you earn more money than a truck driver working for a charter fleet. Why? Because charter fleets operate on shorter routes with higher average speeds, which means they can legally drive longer hours without breaking the law. That added hour or two of driving each day can really add up over time – making IOO trucking one of the most lucrative options out there!

3. You Have More Control Over Your Work Schedule

Another huge benefit of being an IOO truck driver is that you have much greater control over your work schedule. You're not obligated to work certain days or hours each week, or be on call 24/7.

What trucking companies are looking for in an IOO?

When looking for an IOO truck driver, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, companies are looking for experienced and certified drivers. A good indication of whether or not a driver is certified is to look at their driving record and see if they have any recent violations. Secondly, companies are looking for drivers who are comfortable with the sleeper cab configuration. Many IOOs require the driver to sleep in the sleeper cab while on long hauls. Finally, companies are looking for drivers who are reliable and punctual.

How to interview an IOO

When you are interviewing an IOO, it is important to be prepared and know what to ask. Here are some tips:

1. What is your job title?

2. How many miles do you drive per day?

3. What type of vehicle do you typically drive?

4. What is your hourly rate?

5. Do you have any experience driving a truckload? If so, how many trucks/day?

6. What routes have you driven in the past?

7. How would you describe your customer service skills?

8. Describe any memorable incidents or accidents while driving a truckload.

9. Are there any other factors that would make you a good candidate for this position (i.e., safety records, transportation experience)?

What to do if you are hired as an IOO?

If you are hired as an IOO truck driver, the first thing you need to do is obtain a CDL Class A license. You can find out more about obtaining your license on the Bureau of Motor Vehicles website. Once you have your license, you will need to meet all of the requirements for operating a commercial vehicle. These requirements include having a Class A or B license, holding an insurance policy that covers your truck and cargo, and having a clean driving record.

Once you have met all of these requirements, it is important to learn as much as you can about the trucking industry. This includes understanding the different types of routes that trucks travel, what risks are associated with each type of route, and how to mitigate those risks. Also, it's important to know how to drive and handle cargo in the best way possible. These include using proper braking techniques, following traffic laws, and never overloading your truck.

Ultimately, being an IOO truck driver is one of the most challenging jobs in the freight industry. But with careful planning and preparation, it can also be one of the most rewarding career paths.

What is an Independent Owner Operator (IOO) and what are the benefits?

An Independent Owner Operator (IOO) is a truck driver who owns and operates their own truck. The benefits of becoming an IOO are numerous. Here are just a few:

- Increased Earnings: As an IOO, you will generally earn more money than a traditional truck driver. This is because you have more control over your own career and can set your own hours and rates.

- Greater Freedom: An IOO typically has less oversight from the company that employs them, so they enjoy greater freedom to drive as they please. This gives them more opportunity to find new routes and improve their earnings.

- Reduced Stress:Working as an IOO can be tough, but it also gives you plenty of autonomy and flexibility. This means that you don't have to worry about the strict rules and regulations that apply to most truck drivers.

How to find an IOO truck driver

The best way to find an IOO truck driver is through online resources or by contacting your regional trucking association. Online resources might include websites that list independent owner operators, truck driving forums, or trucking job boards. Many regional trucking associations also have online resources and contact information for their members.

To find a driver in your area, you can contact your regional trucking association or search online for driver profiles. You can also use the Driver Availability Service at the commercial vehicle operator registry (CVOR) to search for qualified drivers. The Driver Availability Service provides access to driver records from across the country and includes a variety of filters to help you find a qualified driver.

If you're not comfortable using online resources or contact lists, you can also speak with local freight brokers and visit truck loading facilities to meet potential drivers.

What are the requirements for being an IOO truck driver?

To be an IOO truck driver, you must meet certain requirements.

First, you must have a Class A commercial driver's license (CDL).

Next, you must have at least two years of driving experience.

Finally, you must pass a DOT physical exam and a criminal background check.

The best states for IOO truck driving

The best states for IOO truck driving are those that have a high percentage of independent owner operators (IOOs). These are drivers who own their trucks and operate them as their sole source of income. In states with a high percentage of IOOs, there is a greater chance that you will find a truck driver who is qualified and experienced.

The best states for IOO truck driving are Alaska, Colorado, Florida, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, and Washington. These states have a combined percentage of IOOs that is higher than the national average.

Alaska has the highest percentage of IOOs in the country at 47%. Colorado is second with 34%, and Florida is third with 32%. Nevada has the lowest percentage at 12%, but it has the largest population of IOOs in the country. New Mexico is fourth with 27%, and Oregon fifth with 24%. Texas sixth with 21%, and Washington seventh with 20%.

The best way to find an IOO truck driver is to search online or contact your local Truck Driving School. The National Registry of Independent Owner Operators can also be helpful in finding a qualified driver.

The disadvantages of being an IOO truck driver

The disadvantages of being an IOO truck driver are numerous and significant. The most common disadvantage is that the driving schedule is erratic and can be very demanding. Oftentimes, the trucker must work long hours, often weekends, to make up for low pay. Additionally, many IOOs are required to drive at night or on hazardous routes.

Another disadvantage is that truckers are largely self-employed and lack benefits such as healthcare and retirement savings. In addition to the challenges associated with being self-employed, IOOs typically earn lower wages than full-time employed drivers. Finally, IOO truckers are frequently not protected by any safety regulations, which can lead to dangerous work conditions.

Conclusion

Truck driving can be a great career opportunity, but it's important to find the right company. In this article, we will go over some of the key things to look for when choosing an independent owner operator truck driver. By following these tips, you'll be able to find a driver who is a good fit for your business and who will provide years of service. 

[batboyblog]

Things Biden and the Democrats did, this week #10

March 15-22 2024

The EPA announced new emission standards with the goal of having more than half of new cars and light trucks sold in the US be low/zero emission by 2032. One of the most significant climate regulations in the nation’s history, it'll eliminate 7 billion tons of CO2 emissions over the next 30 years. It's part of President Biden's goal to cut greenhouse gas emissions in half by 2030 on the road to eliminating them totally by 2050.

President Biden canceled nearly 6 Billion dollars in student loan debt. 78,000 borrowers who work in public sector jobs, teachers, nurses, social workers, firefighters etc will have their debt totally forgiven. An additional 380,000 public service workers will be informed that they qualify to have their loans forgiven over the next 2 years. The Biden Administration has now forgiven $143.6 Billion in student loan debt for 4 million Americans since the Supreme Court struck down the original student loan forgiveness plan last year.

Under Pressure from the administration and Democrats in Congress Drugmaker AstraZeneca caps the price of its inhalers at $35. AstraZeneca joins rival Boehringer Ingelheim in capping the price of inhalers at $35, the price the Biden Admin capped the price of insulin for seniors. The move comes as the Federal Trade Commission challenges AstraZeneca’s patents, and Senator Bernie Sanders in his role as Democratic chair of the Senate Health Committee investigates drug pricing.

The Department of Justice sued Apple for being an illegal monopoly in smartphones. The DoJ is joined by 16 state attorneys general. The DoJ accuses Apple of illegally stifling competition with how its apps work and seeking to undermining technologies that compete with its own apps.

The EPA passed a rule banning the final type of asbestos still used in the United States. The banning of chrysotile asbestos (known as white asbestos) marks the first time since 1989 the EPA taken action on asbestos, when it passed a partial ban. 40,000 deaths a year in the US are linked to asbestos

President Biden announced $8.5 billion to help build advanced computer chips in America. Currently America only manufactures 10% of the world's chips and none of the most advanced next generation of chips. The deal with Intel will open 4 factories across 4 states (Arizona, Ohio, New Mexico, and Oregon) and create 30,000 new jobs. The Administration hopes that by 2030 America will make 20% of the world's leading-edge chips.

President Biden signed an Executive Order prioritizing research into women's health. The order will direct $200 million into women's health across the government including comprehensive studies of menopause health by the Department of Defense and new outreach by the Indian Health Service to better meet the needs of American Indian and Alaska Native Women. This comes on top of $100 million secured by First Lady Jill Biden from ARPA-H.

Democratic Senators Bob Casey, Tammy Baldwin, Sherrod Brown, and Jacky Rosen (all up for re-election) along with Elizabeth Warren, Cory Booker, and Sheldon Whitehouse, introduced the "Shrinkflation Prevention Act" The Bill seeks to stop the practice of companies charging the same amount for products that have been subtly shrunk so consumers pay more for less.

The Department of Transportation will invest $45 million in projects that improve Bicyclist and Pedestrian Connectivity and Safety

The EPA will spend $77 Million to put 180 electric school buses onto the streets of New York City This is part of New York's goal to transition its whole school bus fleet to electric by 2035.

The Senate confirmed President Biden's nomination of Nicole Berner to the Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. Berner has served as the general counsel for America's largest union, SEIU, since 2017 and worked in their legal department since 2006. On behalf of SEIU she's worked on cases supporting the Affordable Care Act, DACA, and against the Defense of Marriage act and was part of the Fight for 15. Before working at SEIU she was a staff attorney at Planned Parenthood. Berner's name was listed by the liberal group Demand Justice as someone they'd like to see on the Supreme Court. Berner becomes one of just 5 LGBT federal appeals court judges, 3 appointed by Biden. The Senate also confirmed Edward Kiel and Eumi Lee to be district judges in New Jersey and Northern California respectively, bring the number of federal judges appointed by Biden to 188.

[doomandgloomfromthetomb]

"I Believe In You (Rehearsal)" - Sinead O'Connor, Madison Square Garden, New York City, October 16, 1992

Huge sadness to find out that Sinead O'Connor passed away this week — a truly one-of-a-kind artist. I still remember as a kid seeing her on the Grammys in the late 1980s and just being blown away (and a little bit confused) by her pure, focused intensity amidst the chintz and cheese of an awards show on broadcast TV.

In the outpouring of grief for Sinead, people have been saying that we failed her, we didn't deserve her, etc. Fair enough, but I imagine that O'Connor would roll her eyes a bit — if her weird, sometimes chaotic career proved anything it's that she was no one's victim. But you gotta acknowledge that sexism / conservatism / idiocy was a big and unfortunate part of her story. In some other epoch/universe, she would've been revered as an oracle or prophet. Instead, she gave us the truth and we gave her hell.

Case in point! Her infamous appearance at 1992's "Bobfest" during which Sinead was booed off the stage before she could perform "I Believe In You." Bizarre and embarrassing.

"Half the audience were cheering, half were booing, which is a strange sound," she recalled many years later. "I’m highly affected by sound, and it was making me want to vomit. So, when Kris [Kristofferson] helped me offstage, I was trying to suppress the urge to vomit over him… a bit of a headfuck. And I still remember dear old Booker T – who’s now a great friend – on the piano, getting ready to play the Dylan song. But my version involved whispering it, and the noise was too loud. So I just shouted the lyrics to Bob Marley’s "War" instead. Willie Nelson was waiting backstage. He’s a very funny character, who’d previously trained me how to transport weed across county lines! He’d also asked me to record a version of Peter Gabriel’s "Don’t Give Up" the next day. So when Kris led me offstage, Willie came up and whispered: 'You’re still coming in the studio tomorrow, right?' Ha ha! And we went off and had a spliff."

For an idea of how things could've been, take a listen to the remarkable afternoon rehearsal performance, wherein Sinead finds a holiness in the song that even Bob never matched. The rapture of faith, the glory of love. I believe in you.

Don’t let me change my heart Keep me set apart From all the plans they do pursue And I, I don’t mind the pain Don’t mind the driving rain I know I will sustain ’Cause I believe in you

Photo: Anton Corbijn

[justforbooks]

Middle England by Jonathan Coe

Reactionaries and remoaners clash in a meditation on anger, loss and the passing of time featuring the characters from The Rotters’ Club

At one point in Middle England, a couple attend a marital counselling session in which they are each asked to explain why they are so angry that their spouse voted differently from them in the EU referendum. One complains that the other, by voting leave, showed that “as a person, he’s not as open as I thought he was. That his basic model for relationships comes down to antagonism and competition, not cooperation.” Her husband answers that her remain vote made him realise she’s “very naïve”, “lives in a bubble”, and that it gives her “an attitude of moral superiority”.

The therapist’s verdict is: “What’s interesting about both of these answers is that neither of you mentioned politics. As if the referendum wasn’t about Europe at all. Maybe something much more fundamental and personal was going on. Which is why this might be a difficult problem to resolve.”

That, perhaps, is the sore point a novelist taking on Brexit as a subject might be expected to probe. There’s a truth here – that the Brexit vote was experienced and has continued to be experienced as a matter of personal identity. For a novelist, this is where the action is.

Middle England is the third novel featuring the characters from Coe’s 2001 novel The Rotters’ Club and 2004’s The Closed Circle, and sees an excellent writer making an enjoyable, absorbing and less than completely successful attempt to find the sweet spot of that sore point. The action runs from the spring of 2010 to the autumn of 2018, and the newsreel that unrolls in the background takes in Gordon Brown’s encounter with “that bigoted woman”, the coalition government, the London riots, the murder of Jo Cox, Nigel Farage’s notorious “Breaking Point” poster, the London Olympics and all the rest of it. And in that respect, of course, we know what’s going to happen because we’re living it. This is a book that foretells the present.

It also has a good deal to tell us, oddly, about geography and local transport. Coe has frequent resort to the melancholy poetry of place. On page four we read that the hero is driving “through the towns of Bridgnorth, Alveley, Quatt, Much Wenlock and Cressage”, and 40 pages later he’s taking the route in the other direction: “Cressage, Much Wenlock, Bridgnorth, Enville, Stourbridge and Hagley”. A garden centre isn’t just “midway between Shrewsbury and Birmingham”: it’s “not far from the M54 and considered such a geographical fixture that it had its own official sign on the motorway”. A pub is “tucked away in a hard-to-find corner beside the Suffolk Street Queensway in Central Birmingham”. At one point we meet characters “driving out of Birmingham along the A3400”; at another contemplating the “rail replacement service between Kettering and Nuneaton” “‘Rail replacement service’, ‘Kettering’, ‘Nuneaton’. Were there five more dispiriting words in the English (or any other) language?”

In its politics, just as in its gripes about public transport, this is a great big Centrist Dad of a novel. It lives largely in the world of the media, academia, politics and (peripherally) the City. Benjamin Trotter is a failed novelist who in late middle age finds himself longlisted for the Man Booker prize; his old friend Doug is a well-heeled centre-left newspaper columnist; his niece Sophie is a university lecturer who becomes a minor TV don. The book has a wide cast of characters, though the ones we’re invited to sympathise with are pretty much all remainers.

And yet it’s never stronger or more convincing than when it’s furthest from political events. As the novel addresses the rise of populism, for example, we meet reactionary oldies in golf clubs moaning about “political correctness”; a lunatic conspiracy theorist buttonholing a publisher with a manuscript about the EU’s “Kalergi Plan” for white genocide; a porcine chancer funding the referendum through a dodgy free-market thinktank; an elderly former car worker uncomprehendingly contemplating the site where the Longbridge plant used to be; a privileged Corbynite student lodging a complaint against a lecturer after hearing (at second hand) that they’d said something to a trans student that could be taken the wrong way. They tell us, in caricatural form, what we already know – or at least suppose we do.

One problem is that the historical scaffolding is so familiar, and yet will date so fast; this means that certain passages of exposition feel clunky. The reader in 2018 has no need to be told the following:

Jeremy Corbyn had become leader of the Labour Party in September. The surprising – even astonishing – election of this obscure but long-serving, rebellious backbencher had been seen by many, including Sophie, as a welcome sign that the party was planning to return to the principles it had abandoned under Tony Blair.

The reader in 2028 might welcome the reminder. The reader in 2038 will struggle to give a damn. The reader in 3018 may eke a PhD out of it.

To give Middle England its due, it doesn’t aim to cover everything, recognising wanly that, in drink, the conversation will broaden out “to include Brexit, Donald Trump, Syria, North Korea, Vladimir Putin, Facebook, immigration, Emmanuel Macron, the Five Star Movement and the contentious result of the Eurovision song contest in 1968”. So the American elections are dispatched, wittily, in two lines:

Finally, Benjamin said: “I don’t like Trump, do you?” “Nope,” Charlie said. “Can’t stand the bloke.” Benjamin nodded. With the political discussion out of the way …

And it is when the political discussion is out of the way that the novel becomes richer and less schematic. There’s Sophie’s odd-couple relationship with her driving instructor husband Ian (they met on a speed awareness course) and the way she thinks and rethinks an adulterous near-miss at the beginning of their marriage. There’s Benjamin’s relationship with his sister Lois and his long-lost schoolfriend Charlie, now working as a children’s entertainer and locked in a feud with a rival clown. And there’s Benjamin’s journey towards self-understanding and acceptance. All these are done with real style and feeling.

Coe’s writing is as smoothly accomplished as ever. His comic set pieces – funerals, dinners, clown fights – and scenes capturing the affectionate and ridiculous sex of middle age, and a relationship between a journalist and a Yes Minister-style government adviser, are very funny.

Yet this is also a surprisingly sentimental book, beginning and ending with Benjamin listening wistfully to Shirley Collins’s song “Adieu to Old England”, which is not to its disadvantage. It is an autumnal novel, and a sad one: poignant about the passing of time, the wishing for what has vanished, the decades lost to obscure hatreds, misplaced loves and unsatisfactory marriages – and about what, washing up on the brink of old age, we’re left with and what we can or can’t make of it. That a river, or two, runs through it is no accident.

And in this context the national stuff just sort of bubbles up. The Midlands landscape of Benjamin’s childhood, a landscape at once familiar and remembered and transformed and imaginary, is the real middle England of the novel. And what is lost and gained goes far beyond the referendum in 2016. To quote that therapist again: “Something much more fundamental and personal was going on.”

Daily inspiration. Discover more photos at Just for Books…?

[world-of-fire-and-flight]

Manuscript Search Tag: TSAF

Thank you for tagging me, @author-a-holmes! Your fill was so intriguing and fun and gosh I miss Lizzy and Booker😅 *clears schedule to catch up on things* My words were Last, Chill, Hand, Work and I'm using my romantasy WIP to fill these 🤞

Last

Her heart and her body ached for the warm affection glowing in his eyes, melting her soul and all the threats hanging over her before they managed to detain her feelings.

Adelaide took a deep, almost ragged breath. Her mind fumbled to find a resolve she didn’t want to feel. All she wanted was for this moment to last. She ached for it to lead to something wonderful and true, something safe and sure, something that could be love.

Chill

Forcing herself to descend the worn staircase, Adelaide clutched her dagger closer to her chest. The hilt radiated heat. By the time she’d reached the bottom of the stairs, Adelaide had begun to wish she’d stayed at Castle Belmont, or had gone straight to the docks to inquire about the medicine directly with Mistress Scrabs’s privateer. But it was too late to turn back now.

Adelaide did her best to tamp down the chill that crawled down her spine. The voices became more distinguishable with each step she took. She stuck to the shadows between the bouncing light cast by the flickering lanterns, hiding behind crates and barrels scattered throughout the cellar and along the walls.

Hand

“Most people who are ‘all right’ don’t wince,” Archduke Hughes said, observing her closely. “If you’re injured, say so.”

“I…well, it’s my wrist,” Adelaide finally conceded. “But I’m sure it’s just a minor sprain. Thank you for your concern, Your Grace.”

The Archduke hummed, his lips pursed. He didn’t ask as he grasped hold of her hand once more and gingerly maneuvered it to examine her wrist.

“William, don’t just stand there, bring me my bag,” he called to the other rider.

Work

As he passed by Viktor’s stall, the gray steed tried to nip at his cloak. Gavin held a finger up to his lips and hushed him. Gavin offered him a carrot, knowing Viktor had worked just as tirelessly on their journey to transport the Eye of Behelwer. The horse accepted it graciously, making Gavin shake his head. He would be so lucky if Aves greeted him the same way. Moving on to the next stall, Gavin watched as Aves turned his back to the stall door as Gavin stopped to unlatch the bolt.

No Pressure Tagging:

@akindofmagictoo @cryptidwritings @aninkwellofnectar @thepenultimateword @ambiguouspuzuma and anyone else who'd like to play along😊 Your words are shallow, ripple, hunger, and drip

[catofadifferentcolor]

Terrible Fic Ideas #60: The Old Guard, but make it Percy Jackson

I was not intending on falling headfirst into another fandom. Nor was I intending to come up with another crazy PJO crossover that somehow manages not to be crack, but I discovered The Old Guard last weekend and this is the end result.

Or: What if, post-movie, the Guard decided to lay low at the one place Merrick's people could never find them: Camp Half-Blood?

Bear with me:

For most of history, "the cradle of western civilization" has been in Europe, as befitting a throughly European idea. But Europe is a big place - and even bigger when you don't have modern transportation to fall back on. A common rule of thumb for medieval travel goes something like 1 day sailing = 7 days on horseback = 21 days walking.

Plus sending satyrs to scope out likely schools is a lovely idea in an era with compulsory public education, but less likely to work in an era where even universities are few on the ground.

All that being said, I imagine it would have been ridiculously easy for demigods to slip through the cracks and never make their way to CHB or CJ, not once suspecting they were anything other than fully human. This is especially true of demigods without spectacular active powers like creating hurricanes or summoning the dead.

As there's no canonical reason why the members of the Old Guard are immortal, there's no reason they can't be demigods who slipped through the cracks, died, and became immortal because of their divine ancestry. It's a rare quirk of genetics that shows up only in 1 in a 10,000 demigods, most often in those who lack any active powers and show only the passive traits of their divine parent - and, therefore, have no idea that they're demigods at all until much, much later in the game.

For the purposes of this fic: Quỳnh and Lykon are descended from southeast asian and subsaharan pantheons of which modern historians have only limited knowledge. Andy is the daughter of Dyḗus, the PIE sky god considered to be equivalent to Zeus, and thus is something like Zeus' stepdaughter. Nicky is the only child of Neptune born in the last two millennia, Joe the son of Apollo in his Greek incarnation, and Nile the daughter of Mars. I went back and forth for possible divine parents for Booker, but ultimately decided to make him a son of Dionysus in this AU. None of them exhibit anything that might be called a power, but have certain talents and personality traits that mark them distinctly as of divine descent.

Just imagine it:

Following Merrick, the Guard needs to lay low. They have many safe houses but no way of knowing how many are compromised. In the end, they decide to go to the one place Merrick can be assured not to find them: Camp Half-Blood.

They get halfway to Ramsgate before realizing the UK probably no longer counts as "the cradle of Western civilization". With a little bit of divine intervention, they find their way to Long Island.

CHB is not unused to people showing up bloody on their doorstep, but most campers have never seen one adult demigod, let alone five. The fact that two of them are Roman and one predates Zeus himself is startling, as I picture this happening in the summer immediately after TLO, before Hera kidnaps Percy.

There's some tension, partly because of the Greek/Roman thing, partly because some campers are bitter these well-trained adults didn't show up to help during the Battle of the Labyrinth/Battle of Manhattan. (The answer - that they just didn't know Kronos was rising - doesn't help much, but the masterclasses they give on various fighting techniques do.)

Percy spends more time at CHB during the next few months than he ever has - after all, who knows when he'll next get to see a non-monstrous half-brother? Nicky may be the son of his father's Roman incarnation - the only one born since Sextus Pompeius to hear him tell it - but he's still family. An ideal big brother really. This does not keep Percy from being kidnapped or the events of HOO from happening, but it does mean there are more people keeping an eye out for him, and when the Argo II runs into trouble in Europe a few people they can call for backup.

But otherwise I have very little plot for this and a lot of scenes of a long few months where CHB and the Guard interact, but then largely go their separate ways until the kids need to phone a friend. This includes: 1) Booker spending a lot of time with his father and remaining half-brother, which gives him both family and the therapist he needs. It's not a magical fix-all, but it starts the path of healing; 2) Nile freaking out over the demigod thing as well as the immortality, but finds comfort in her Ares half-siblings, and generally realizing that while she may have lost her mortal family she never has to be alone, even if she decides being a member of an immortal army isn't for her; 3) Andy teaching all the children all the weapons, because as much as he hates baby demigods having to fight she'd rather teach them how to survive than turn a blind eye to it; and 4) Percy worrying Nicky and Joe are camping out in a cave on the edge of camp because they've been made to feel unwelcome because of the Roman/gay/immortal thing, only to turn permanently red after they kindly explain to him why two adults in a loving relationship might want space for themselves after a traumatic event.

Bonuses include: 1) At least one long digression on how one goes from killing each other multiple times outside the gates of Jerusalem to immortal husbands who are still in the honeymoon stage after 97 decades. This should include a lot of digression on what it takes to have a healthy relationship of any sort, among other related subjects, and hopefully highlight the line between healthy desire to spend one's lives together and unhealthy codependence enough so that MoA's judo throw is avoided; 2) The drama of at least one divine parent beyond Dionysus appearing on scene at some point. Extra bonus points if it's Neptune, who honestly hasn't realized he fathered a demigod child in the last two thousand years. Extra extra bonus points if it's curmudgeonly victorian fisherman Neptune; and 3) Percy upon finding out about Quỳnh immediately offering to go out to Dogger Bank and ask the marine life about a woman in an iron coffin.

And that's it really - not a lot of plot, just a lot of disconnected scenes. As always, feel free to adopt this bun, just link back if you do anything with it.

More Terrible Fic Ideas

[rjzimmerman]

Booker, Grijalva Introduce Bill to Permanently Protect American Bison, Grizzly Bears, and Gray Wolves. (Insider NJ)

Excerpt from this story from Insider NJ:

Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Raúl M. Grijalva (D-AZ-07) introduced the Tribal Heritage and American Bison, Grizzly Bear, and Wolf Restoration and Coexistence Act, legislation to establish permanent federal protections for these three species and expand recovery efforts and coexistence measures. Additionally, the bill would enhance existing tribal management authorities over these species by creating oversight committees that work in unison with Indian Tribes to identify tribal lands suitable for possible reintroduction efforts.

“American bison, grizzly bears, and gray wolves are iconic American species and are timeless symbols of our nation’s heritage, yet these animals were driven to the brink of extinction,” said Senator Booker. “Building on the success of past conservation legislation like the American Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Marine Mammal Protection Act, I am proud to introduce legislation that directs the Secretary of the Interior to works closely with Indigenous communities to ensure permanent protection for these animals.”

“Bison, grizzly bears, and wolves hold significant spiritual, cultural, and ecological value to many tribal communities and our nation,” said House Natural Resources Committee Ranking Member Raúl M. Grijalva. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation with Senator Booker to enshrine protections for these species and ensure that conservation and management are conducted in close consultation with Tribal Nations. For centuries, the United States’ policies have systematically failed to honor our treaties, harming Tribal Nations and resulting in significant cultural losses and ecological damage. Congress has a trust responsibility to move forward from past injustices and craft policies for the future that are based on respect and recognition of Tribal Nations’ leadership in recovering these iconic species and their habitats.”

Specifically, the Tribal Heritage and American Bison, Grizzly Bear, and Wolf Restoration and Coexistence Act would:

Prohibit the take, possession, purchase, sale, or transport of American bison, grizzly bears, and wolves, exclusive of captive-bred bison intended for human consumption, with targeted exceptions authorizing the Secretary of the Interior to issue permits for scientific or conservation purposes and for protection of agricultural interests and public safety.

Exempt religious, cultural or treaty-reserved purposes of Federally recognized Indian Tribes.

Provide for civil and criminal penalties for violations.

Require consultation with federally recognized Indian Tribes before a take permit is issued under this Act or before any activity is carried out on the Tribal land of a federally recognized Indian Tribe that may negatively impact habitat or increase mortality of bison, grizzly bears or wolves.

Authorize federally recognized Indian Tribes, in consultation with the Secretary, to manage bison, grizzly bears and wolves reintroduced on Tribal land.

[davidshawnsown]

AFU Motorbike Battalions/Kurins

(based on real life Soviet formations during WW2)

(Inspired by Battle Order's video on Soviet Army motorcycle reconnaisance battalions under division during the Second World War as well as the real life US armored recon units of the same period)

IMU of stories the success of ad-hoc bicycle and motorbike formations in the Armed Forces of Ukraine during the Russian invasion would result in the formation of motorcycle formations of battalion size (called in Ukrainian as Mototsykletnyy batalʹyon) in elements of the armed forces to regularize these. However they follow a Westernized form of the organization of the old Soviet motorbike battalions of mechanized and armored divisions. In cavalry divisions - those armored divisions with cavalry traditions and titles honoring the Ukrainian Cossacks - these units are titled as Kurins (Mototsykletnyy kurin) with its companies named as sotnias. These battalions are armed with primarily Western and locally produced motorcycles and tricycles for their mission as support to recon and combat operations. There's plans to integrate an infantry company to those battalions in the infantry divisions.

In mechanized infantry, assault infantry and mountain infantry divisions they are organized in 4 motorbike companies each with HQ platoon, 4 motorbike platoons (one squad each manned with electric motorcycles), and a mortar and weapons section each. The armored recon company operates M59s and M113s together with the M106 SP mortar and its light tank battalion uses M10 Bookers in its tank platoons and MT-LBs in its infantry and AT platoon. The AT battery uses Jeeps and similar vehicles for the transport of their crew and they are all supported by a forward support company from their parent division and other elements. In a mountain infantry division, an additional squad is tasked within platoons for ski capability.

In a motorized infantry division the motorbike company has no weapons section. The armored recon company is armed with BTR-4s and hand-me-down LAV-3s from the United States and the light tank company uses the M113 and Scorpion.

There's a different TO&E for the battalions in armored divisions. Motorbike battalions in these, alongside the weapons section, are reinforced with two bicycle platoons and a RPG/AT motorcycle section in the motorcycle companies, the armored recon company uses Bradleys, the light tank company, aside from its M10s, uses M113s as mechanized infantry element and there's a assault gun company using Centauros from Italy and the Ukrainian produced MT-LB-12 - inspired by the assault gun troops of cavalry recon squadrons of the United States during the Second World War.

The Motorcycle Kurin of the UGF cavalry division is modeled after the armored division motorcycle battalion but is named and organized in keeping with Ukrainian Cossack cavalry heritage. However it does not have a bicycle nor RPG/AT motorbike section and its AT battery is organized into 4 platoons instead of 3.

In the AAFU's two airmobile divisions, the motorcycle battalion's recon company is armed with M113s and BTR-3s, there's no infantry platoon in the tank company and an airborne transport and rigger platoon for parachute and air assault operations is added to the forward support company.

The two marine divisions of XXX Amphibious Corps UkrMC and the planned motorbike battalions of that Corps in Mykolaiv and Kherson are organized for both ground and amphibious operations as relfected in the addition of an amphious scout platoon. However it does have an added water transport platoon in the forward logistics company for the amphibious element there and the tank company uses M59 Scorpion TDs, AMX-10 RCs and AAVP-7s. Squads using electric bikes are to be transported to the shore via other vehicles in amphibious operations before they can be unloaded for use unlike those using normal motorbikes (and those squads using bicycles) which can land to the coast via landing craft. The same vehicles in an air assault motorbike battalion's armored recon company are used in a marine motorbike battalion.

@lukeexplorer

[fruit-salad-ship]

Random AU idea: one of those “character was raised by [animal]” stories like Tarzan, maybe Peach crashes on this really hard to reach island and is picked up by a small group of ursaring, Booker is like a pseudo sibling and Val hangs out with them but acts all aloof. Plum and Grey are sent on an expedition to map the island, there’s a rare gap in the storm/currents/whatever that normally keep people out, Grey as Pokémon research and Plum as a ranger. They get there, find Peach, ???, profit

So, I wrote a huge thing for this without realising, like I blinked and my ADHD provided me a sad story and I recall none of writing it. BUT

here you go. you can all decide what you want this to end like, i left it open ended for optimal gap filling potential.

something like 8000 ish words. get a coffee for this one I guess?

It's unedited, unread, unrefined, and I am unbothered by this.

[phatburd]

There is some part of me that really wants to do a crossover between The Old Guard and Eric Flint's 1632 series. Except, there's a couple of big problems ....

Flint's treatment of 17th century Europe is really fucking dated.

Including Booker and Nile into the narrative would be impossible. Well, possibly Booker, but Nile wouldn't be in the story at all. Grantville gets transported to 17th century Bavaria in 1999 or 2000, way before Nile comes along in the TOG narrative. And which would be a real fucking shame because Flint's version of 17th century Europe can do with more non-white people in it. There were actually more non-white POC in Europe in the 17th century, and Flint's treatment of it shows his biases (accidental or not).

Oh, yeah, I could incorporate 2020s research into what 17th century Europe was actually like, but that would mean having to rewrite lots of Flint's 1632. Not necessarily a bad thing, but I'm not ready for that level of overhaul.

It's a fun book series, don't get me wrong but, man, those blind spots are fucking glaring sometimes.

What is 1632? It's this.

[diamondpaintingworld]

What are the requirements for owner operators and truck drivers?

Many people working as truck drivers have to decide between being an independently running owner operator or driving for a company. In some countries, where the cost of living is higher and there's less job security, employment as independent party trucking may be the best option for people.

What is an owner operator truck driver?

An owner operator truck driver is an individual who drives his or her own vehicle and provides transportation services to others. The business is self-employed, meaning that the drivers set their own schedules and choose which customers they want to work for. They also have complete control over their vehicles, which means they can choose when and where to drop off cargo for delivery or pick up loads from other companies' locations.

Owner operators have the freedom to drive for multiple companies at once if they wish; however, each company must be registered with the Department of Transportation (DOT). In addition this requirement also applies when it comes time for renewing your CDL license every 3 years; each time you renew your license there's another exam process that must be completed before being granted another one (which means having passed all previous exams).

You have many responsibilities as an owner operator.

As an owner operator, you have many responsibilities. You are responsible for the truck and its maintenance. You are responsible for the truck's safety. You are also responsible for the fuel economy of your vehicle and cargo that it carries on its journey from A to B.

Lease your truck and get the free tires

Leasing your truck can be a very cost-effective way to get around. You’ll save money on the lease and use of your vehicle, as well as on insurance and maintenance. The leasing company will typically pay for any tires you need. Plus, they provide free roadside assistance for any problems with your vehicle while it is in their possession—which means no more waiting in line at the mechanic's office!

Once you've leased your rig from an approved provider (like Trucking info), there are many other benefits available:

Free training programs from industry leaders

Fuel discounts at certain terminals or fuel stations

Parking discounts at local garages

Trucking is a great job for an independent contractor or owner operator

Trucking is a great job for an independent contractor or owner operator. It’s one of the best ways to make money, get experience and learn new skills.

Trucking can be done as an employee or as an independent contractor (also known as an “independent owner operator”). As an employee you will have benefits like health insurance, paid vacation days and sick days. You may also receive bonuses based on your performance with the company. As an independent contractor you are responsible for paying taxes on your income since it is considered self-employment income instead of wages or salary income

How to become a successful owner operators

There are a few steps you should take to become a successful owner operator. First, you need to be able to drive a truck. A CDL license is required by most states and many cities, so if this isn't available in your area or if it's not for whatever reason (such as financial hardship), then you'll have to find another way of getting around without one.

Next up: passing the DOT test! This is required by all states in order for drivers' licenses and insurance coverage from state authorities like DMV (Department Of Motor Vehicles). If you fail once during the exam process or later on when driving under supervision with an instructor at night time behind some sort of safety barrier system called a "fog lamp," then there could be consequences such as losing your license permanently over time due to having too much alcohol inside of blood stream levels at any given time during operation hours.*

Benefits of trucking owner operators

You are your own boss. The majority of owner operators and truck drivers work for themselves, so you can choose the hours that fit your lifestyle and schedule.

You are in control of your own schedule. If you want to work from home and drive every day for two weeks, it's possible with this job!

You can work from a laptop or tablet if that's what works best for you (and even if it doesn't). Many people choose to use these portable devices while they're on the road so they don't have to worry about missing out on opportunities because they didn't have access to email or phone reception (or both).

Get advice from an experienced truck driver

Ask a truck driver or a friend who is already a driver.

Ask your local live trucking company if they can recommend someone who has been working as an owner operator for some time and can give you advice about what it takes to become one.

If you don't have any options, reach out to someone in your community who knows something about being an owner operator or truck driver (i.e., someone who will be able to help guide you through the process of becoming one).

How to drive an 18 wheeler

Driving a truck is difficult, but it’s not impossible. The first step is to understand what each type of truck does and how they operate. Then you need to learn the basic rules of the road, including turning left or right at intersections and stopping when approaching crosswalks or stop signs. You should also know how many miles per hour (mph) it will take for your vehicle’s speedometer gauge needle to reach its maximum reading on a level road surface with no obstacles between you and oncoming traffic; this number will vary depending on whether there are curves in front of you as well as hillsides around corners that must be taken into account before deciding if turning onto them would be safer than staying straight ahead over flat surfaces with no elevation changes whatsoever (which would lead us into uncharted territory).

When driving these heavy vehicles through busy streets filled with other cars who may not understand what they're doing--or simply don't care--you'll want someone who knows how much force their brakes can generate without causing any damage whatsoever; otherwise they might cause accidents while trying out new ideas behind closed doors!

Conclusion

Requirements for owner operators and truck drivers are different from other professions such as airline pilots or doctors. It is important to follow certain rules to ensure job security and health. There are many factors that affect the job description of an owner operator. For example, a CDL holder with a large vehicle may be required to drive for three straight days, thus making it difficult for them to take care of their family commitments.

[mariacallous]

The 7 Democratic Senators who signed that letter to the FTC regarding Twitter

Richard Blumenthal:

Chair, Senate Judiciary Committee's Subcommittee on The Constitution

Member, Senate Judiciary Committee, Subcommittee on Competition Policy, Antitrust, and Consumer Rights

Chair, Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee's Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security

Member, Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband

Ben Ray Lujan:

Chair, Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation's Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband

Member, Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security

Member, Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, Subcommittee on Space and Science

Member, Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, Subcommittee on Oceans, Fisheries, Climate Change and Manufacturing

Ed Markey:

Chair, Senate Foreign Relations Committee's Subcommittee on East Asia, the Pacific, and International Cybersecurity Policy

Member, Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband

Member, Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security

Member, Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, Subcommittee on Space and Science

Member, Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, Subcommittee on Oceans, Fisheries, Climate Change and Manufacturing

Robert Menendez:

Chair, Senate Foreign Relations Committee

Member, Senate Committee On Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Protection

Chair, Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Subcommittee on Securities, Insurance, and Investment

Dianne Feinstein:

Senator representing California (where Twitter is located)

Chair, Senate Judiciary Committee's Subcommittee on Human Rights and the Law

Member, Senate Judiciary Committee, Subcommittee on The Constitution

Member, Senate Select Committee on Intelligence

Elizabeth Warren:

Chair, Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, & Urban Affairs's Subcommittee on Economic Policy

Member, Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, Subcommittee on Financial Institutions and Consumer Protection

Member, Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, Subcommittee on Securities, Insurance, and Investment

Cory Booker:

Member, Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Subcommittee on Multilateral International Development, Multilateral Institutions, & International Economic, Energy, & Environmental Policy

Chair, Senate Judiciary Committee's Subcommittee on Crime and Terrorism

Member, Senate Judiciary Committee, Subcommittee on Competition Policy, Antitrust, and Consumer Rights

Member, Senate Judiciary Committee, Subcommittee on Federal Courts, Oversight, Agency Action, and Federal Rights

[druckkugelschreiber]

A little bit late to the WIP wednesday tagged by @mxanigel (thank you for the tag <3) but I didn't like what I was writing so I had to rummage around my endless WIP folders to find something I wanted to post.

Namely Andy being cute! Who would have thought?!

“You need some sleep”, Andy said when we came back from the talk with Copley. 

“Yup”, I yawned, walking next to her. Nicky and Joe were in the lead back to the hotel with Booker trailing behind. “Is it that obvious?”

Andy chuckled, “I know your tells.” 

I hummed, as per usual Andy’s presence relaxed me and in my state, over 24h without sleep it basically made me incoherent. 

We reached the hotel.

“How long have you been up?”

“Probably closing in on 40 hours?” I said with a grimace. 

Booker closed the door to the hotel room behind us. 

Andy frowned at me. “Come on then, let’s get you settled in, at least a few hours of sleep before we get on the road.”

“Andy”, I complained, “I’ll be dead after only a few hours of sleep.”

“Yes, but neither of us want to be shot in the head because you’re too tired to work properly”, she pulled me into the back room to the double bed. She turned to Booker, “can you set up the transport?”

Booker smirked. “Yeah, have fun you two.”

I rolled my eyes, but relished in the fact that Andy hadn’t let go of my hand. It was a thing of mine that someone had to cuddle me if I was supposed to get some restful sleep, though with the lack of sleep I could probably do without a cuddle buddy. My sleep had levelled out in africa after a month. After my system realised I could relax, but now with all the stress, I knew my insomnia would be back full force. 

Andy pulled me straight onto the bed and pulled me against her. 

“Don’t you have better things to do?” I said, but rested my head against her chest. Her heartbeat like the sound of my favourite song. 

“No”, Andy said and ran a hand over my new haircut. “Rest now, Jas. I’ll wake you early enough.”

I let out a long breath. My eyes fluttered shut. 

“I’m glad you’re here, Jas”, she muttered right before I was entirely gone to sleep.

[practicalperipherals]

Capturing the Essence of Melbourne’s Top Hotels: The Role of a Professional Hotel Photographer - Hotel Photography

When you think about booking a hotel, what’s the first thing that draws your attention? The photos. A stunning image can instantly transport potential guests to the luxury, comfort, or charm that a hotel offers. That's why hiring a professional hotel photographer is essential for showcasing the very best of what your hotel has to offer, especially in a city as vibrant and diverse as Melbourne.

Melbourne is known for its eclectic mix of architecture, vibrant arts scene, and world-class hospitality. The city’s hotels range from luxurious high-rise establishments with sweeping views of the city skyline to boutique hotels nestled in the quieter, cultural corners of Melbourne. Regardless of the type of hotel, visually capturing the atmosphere and experience it provides is crucial. A professional hotel photographer in Melbourne understands this need and can highlight a property’s unique selling points through expertly crafted images.

Why Professional Photography Matters

In the digital age, a hotel’s online presence is often the first touchpoint for potential guests. A hotel website or booking platform with high-quality, visually appealing photographs is much more likely to convert lookers into bookers. A professional hotel photographer not only captures the aesthetic beauty of the property but also helps tell a story. Whether it’s a rooftop pool with a view of the Melbourne skyline or a cozy interior in a boutique hotel, the photographer brings these features to life, making them irresistible to potential visitors.

Beyond the basics of making a space look appealing, professional hotel photography also sets the tone and communicates the atmosphere. The warm glow of a luxury suite’s ambient lighting, the sleek lines of modern architectural design, or the homey feel of a heritage property — all of these can be communicated through the lens. A talented photographer will know how to showcase these elements, using light, composition, and timing to create images that evoke emotion.

Capturing the Key Elements of Your Hotel

A skilled hotel photographer in Melbourne knows how to focus on the essential areas of your property. Key shots typically include the hotel’s exterior, lobby, rooms, amenities, and common spaces. For Melbourne hotels, this might also include unique aspects such as city views, cultural decor, or even proximity to famous landmarks like Federation Square or the Yarra River.

The exterior shot is often the first image that grabs a viewer’s attention. A photographer will take into account the best time of day, the angle, and even the weather to ensure that the hotel's architecture and surroundings are displayed in their best light. Inside the hotel, rooms need to look inviting yet luxurious. A well-composed shot can make even the most modest room appear spacious and comfortable. Amenities like spas, gyms, restaurants, and bars are equally important and should be shot in a way that highlights their allure, whether it’s a chic cocktail bar or a serene, spa-like retreat.

The Unique Vibe of Melbourne Hotels

Melbourne is a city known for its unique blend of history, culture, and innovation. Hotels here often reflect this diversity, and a good photographer will know how to capture that. For instance, in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, you may have sleek, modern hotels catering to business travelers, while just a few kilometers away in the artistic neighborhoods of Fitzroy or St Kilda, you might find boutique hotels with bohemian vibes and intricate designs.

Each hotel offers a different experience, and a photographer needs to understand how to capture that atmosphere. A professional hotel photographer in Melbourne knows the city, its moods, and its varying styles. They can reflect the urban sophistication of a high-rise hotel in the CBD or the laid-back elegance of a seaside retreat in their work.

The Importance of Attention to Detail

Finally, attention to detail is what separates good hotel photography from great hotel photography. A professional will notice the small things that make a difference — the way sunlight filters through the window in the morning, the textures of the fabrics in the room, or the sparkling cleanliness of the bathroom fixtures. By paying attention to these details, a hotel photographer can create a sense of both luxury and comfort, drawing guests in before they’ve even set foot on the property.

In conclusion, a professional hotel photographer in Melbourne does more than just take pictures. They capture the essence of the experience your hotel offers. Whether you run a boutique hideaway in the city's artistic hubs or a luxury high-rise in the business district, the right images can set your property apart and entice visitors from all over the world.

For More:

Ph: 61430383588

Mail id: photo@maurorisch.com

Working Time: Monday to Friday 8am–8pm.

Visit us: http://www.hotelphotographer.com.au/

[wrestlinghistorywithkay]

Crying For Magnum: The Story of Nikita Koloff’s Face Turn In The Time Of Tragedy

TW: Mentions of a car accident, paralysis, and death

Hey Everyone! I hope you all are doing well! Professional Wrestling has a lot of amazing storylines and gimmicks. I consider it to be emotional on a few occasions. With this article , I’m going to explain what I mean by that statement. This is the story of how a Heel turned into a Babyface after a tragedy.

In the Spring of 1986, Magnum TA, the most popular star in Jim Crockett Promotions , had a storyline with Ivan Koloff. During the feud , Koloff would say his nephew, Nikita Koloff , would challenge Magnum for the NWA United States Heavyweight Championship and go on to take it from him. Magnum recently won the championship back from Tully Blanchard after winning their legendary , ‘ I Quit ! ’ match at Starrcade ‘ 85. The promoter of NWA and Jim Crockett Promotions , Jim Crockett Jr., would have a contract signing in May for the United States Championship match. Nikita was accompanied by Ivan as Magnum was accompanied by his mother. A fight between the two wrestlers happened after Koloff ridiculed Magnum’s mother. He would soon be stripped of the championship and have to fight for it in a ‘ Best of Seven ’ series of matches . These took place on the Great American Bash Tour for 1986. The series ended in the Summer on August 17,1986 with Koloff becoming the new NWA United States Heavyweight Champion.

Magnum TA was in talks to become the new NWA World Championship after the storyline with Koloff. However , this would never happen . On October 14, 1986 , Magnum TA was in a near fatal car accident in Charlotte , North Carolina. He lost control of his Porsche while it was raining and crashed into a telephone pole. It was claimed that he was speeding , however, he was actually doing the speed limit. He would be trapped in the car for two hours until someone who came upon the wreck called for help. Magnum was transported to Carolinas Medical Center with a broken C-4 and a C-5 vertebrae. Thus, the doctors had doubts that he would never be able to walk for the rest of his life. Magnum TA’s in ring career would end due to months of paralysis on the right side of his body due to the injuries sustained in the accident .

Therefore, after losing Magnum as a top wrestler and Babyface , NWA booker , ‘ The American Dream ’ Dusty Rhodes , made the decision to make his rival before the crash, Nikita Koloff , into a Babyface. Koloff claimed that he gained respect for his colleague and wanted to substitute for him , going by their storyline . Thus, this led to Koloff being on the cover of the Spring 1987 edition of ‘ Wrestling’ 87 ’ Magazine . Nikita would be seen on the magazine crying with the words , “ I cry for Magnum TA ”.

Koloff would state on the show , ‘ Dark Side Of The Ring ’ that he got the news about Magnum when he came back from Japan. It took place in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Magnum would make his TV return in 1987 would be an interview with commentator and backstage interviewer, Tony Schiavone. He would return in front of a live crowd with the help of two referees and a cane to help him walk to wish Nikita and Dusty good luck before they faced Tully Blanchard and Lex Luger. He would also manage Rhodes and Koloff.

In March of 2024, Koloff and Magnum would be seen in the crowd at AEW Revolution to witness Sting’s retirement match.

Nikita Koloff is now a Motivational Speaker and a Preacher.

My Final Thoughts:

Just hearing this story always breaks my heart. Knowing that Nikita would rise up and do something like that for his rival , that amazes me. Seeing that magazine cover with him on it really shows me that it does not matter if someone is a Face or A Heel, if something happens to a wrestler , it’s okay to show emotion and that if affects everyone in a locker room and a promotion. I also hope to meet Magnum and Nikita this year at WRESTLECADE.

( Fun fact: My Dad got to change a tire on Nikita’s car and talk to him. I’m jealous . )

Love You All,

- Kay