#winter activities in nyc

[coolchickblog]

𝐈𝐭'𝐬 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 ☕️🍂💫🧸

[thisislizheather]

Winter List 2022 Revisited

Above Photo: Snow on trees might be the answer to everything, March 2023

It really feels like I made this winter list about a year ago. Here’s how it went!

1. Take at least five bubble baths.

C’mon, I’m not an amateur. Of course I did this one.

2. Finally get my own ice skates and skate around this beautiful rink.

Bought skates! I couldn’t get to that gorgeous rink in Huntsville, but I did manage to skate on this wonderful figure-eight rink in Etobicoke.

3. Go skiing.

Sadly, no. But this is top priority this year.

4. Make lasagna soup.

Made! Ate! Loved!

Above Photo: Lasagna Soup - looks horrifying, tastes heavenly

5. See at least two Broadway plays.

Death of a Salesman, Moulin Rouge and Shucked!

Above Photo: January 2023

Above Photo: January 2023

Above Photo: March 2023

4/5! Love when that happens! Spring list coming tomorrow!

[save-mohamed-family]

My campaign is verified and added to the Gaza Donations page with number 192.

Thank you for documenting my campaign from the following accounts:

@sar-soor @heba-20

@el-shab-hussein

@90-ghost @soon-palestine

@ibtisams @marnota @riding-with-the-wild-hunt @i-am-aprl @northgazaupdates @fallahifag @fairuzfan

I love you all 🙏🙏♥️🌹

I am Mohammed Almanasra, 32 years old, married, and a father of three children: Abdulrahman, 6 years old, Sarah, 4 years old, and Lina, 3 years old.

My story began with the loss of my parents and four of my sisters, who were bombed and lost their lives along with their children after the events of October 7 and the severe war on Gaza. Now, I am facing a severe injury to my leg, which is at risk of amputation if I do not receive the necessary treatment. My wife, children, and I are displaced, without parents or siblings, and my wife is also suffering from uterine cancer.

Recently, I moved to the south of the Gaza Strip, fearing for the lives of my children. We left behind our memories and our new home, for which we had not finished paying the installments, in addition to losing my job. Currently, I live in a tent that does not protect me from the heat of summer or the cold of winter, and without the minimum necessary livinng basics including water, food medical care, clothe and even bedding .

I suffer from a chronic asthma and severe attacks from tightness and an extreme allergy in the ear and I need medicine that are not available, or very expensive .

Under these difficult circumstances, after five attempts at displacement and narrowly escaping death from the bombing, I am trying with all my might to protect my family, the most precious thing I have.

My dreams were shattered, and my house was destroyed, and I found myself living in a tent no larger than 4 square metres. My work turned from a tailor to a street vendor in order to barely buy a few crumbs of bread to feed my children.

Look at what happened to my children because of the intense heat and the insects that thrive in the summer season. Every day, I take them to the hospital to treat them due to poisonous insect bites. I implore every kind-hearted soul to help me protect my children.

My son, Abdul Rahman, has a deep passion for playing football and is a devoted fan of Real Madrid. He always dreamed of playing football at his school, but the war prevented this dream from coming true.

Where are you, Real Madrid fans ?

Help Abdul Rahman achieve his dream.

Every donation will make an enormous difference in helping me save my family.

I feel very sad and embarrassed to ask for help, but I have no other options left. I know that this request is difficult, but I also know that there is still humanity and living consciences and I believe in miracles.

Your support during this extremely difficult time will give us hope in the midst of devastation and despair.

If you have any inquiries or questions, feel free to ask me, please!

To everyone with a compassionate heart,

To all who understand the essence of humanity,

This is a message from my innocent children, who trust that their words will reach everyone who truly understands the meaning of childhood.

We cry out to you, asking you to feel our sorrow and pain, and to extend a helping hand to us in this time when we are in desperate need of your mercy and compassion.

My name is being repeatedly added to many public and private donation campaigns. Please, be a support for me in this difficult situation.

https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/u/0/d/1yYkNp5U3ANwILl2MknJi9G7ArY4uVTEEQ1CVfzR8Ioo/htmlview

Sincere greetings & thanks

Mohammed & the family

[joinriverfrost]

･:*:｡☃︎𓏲ּ  𝑹𝑰𝑽𝑬𝑹𝑭𝑹𝑶𝑺𝑻 𝑷𝑰𝑵𝑬𝑺  ;;  welcome  to  riverfrost  pines  !  the  town  that  is   mostly  known  for  skiing,  ice  skating,  winter  getaways  at  the  cabins  and  of  course  a  spot  to  grab  your  hot  chocolate  on  the  snowiest  days  of  the  year  !   we  are  a  21+  muns  and  muses  solely  tumblr  based  rp  group  that  involves  the  residents  who  have  been  visiting  the  town  of  riverfrost  pines  and  the  riverfrost  resort  for  the  winter.  being  snowed  in  at  the  resort  only  happens  sometimes  within  the  forecast,  but  not  all  the  time.  muses  will  have  the  opportunity  to  visit  the  resort,  ski,  ice  skate,  sleigh  ride,  and  rent  out a  cabin  as  well !

[riverfrosthq]

with  just  four  applications  sitting  in  our  inbox  already  ...  we're  just  awaiting  on  six  more  before  we  can  officially  open  up  for  interactions  and  such  !  if  you're  looking  for  a  cute  little  winter  vibe,  we  may  just  be  what  you're  looking  for  !

[jetsetvenue123]

Chill & Thrill: NYC in January

New York City, in the heart of January, transforms into a magical winter wonderland, offering a unique blend of vibrant energy and cozy experiences. Despite being the coldest month, NYC never loses its charm, bustling with life and a plethora of activities. From the culinary delights of Restaurant Week to the theatrical allure of Broadway Week (for more, see last week’s blog here), the city is a hub of excitement. Ready to dive into the winter spirit? Here’s your ultimate guide to enjoying January in NYC: Sky-High Winter Views: Enclosed Rooftops Craving breathtaking views with a side of comfort? NYC’s enclosed rooftops are your answer. A prime example is Glass Ceiling, where you can sip a drink, stay cozy, and still feel connected to the city’s vibrant outdoor energy. Glide into Fun: Ice Skating Adventures Embrace the season with ice skating, a quintessential NYC winter activity. Glide across the ice at the Winter Village in Bryant Park for free with your skates and a reservation. Don’t miss other popular rinks like Wollman Rink and The Rink at Brookfield Place, each offering a unique skating experience.

Cultural Escapes: Museums Take a break from the cold and immerse yourself in culture and history. Many of NYC’s esteemed museums, including the American Museum of Natural History and MoMA PS1, offer free or suggested admission for NY residents. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore the city’s rich artistic and historical tapestry.

Culinary Delights: Seasonal Menus NYC’s culinary scene is ever-evolving, with restaurants like Riverpark introducing new seasonal delights. Don’t miss their latest creation, the “No End in Sight” cocktail, promising to warm you from the inside out. Discover more at Riverpark.

Winter Thrills: Bumper Cars at Bryant Park The much-anticipated Bumper Cars are back at Bryant Park’s Winter Village! Book your ticket for a whirl of laughter and fun in this unique winter setting.

New York City in January is not just about enduring the cold; it’s about embracing and enjoying it. Wrap up warm, hit the streets, and discover the countless joys the NYC winter has in store. Whether it’s indulging in seasonal flavors, exploring cultural hotspots, or engaging in outdoor activities, there’s something magical waiting for you in every corner of this vibrant city.  Visit Our Website :- www.JetSetVenue.com

[determinate-negation]

update on mohammed's campaign

this is #192 on the Vetted Gaza Fundraiser List

earlier today mohammed @save-mohamed-family was telling me that he is worried for the winter and needs to buy a stronger tent before it starts getting cold. can you imagine the experience of being outside 24/7 with no shelter, no running water, no belongings, just a tent to protect you? can you imagine experiencing that for almost an entire year? i think a lot of us underestimate exactly how uncomfortable and exhausting it is to live in this condition with no reprieve.

help him afford a new tent that will protect him and his family as the winter approaches. he said stronger tents can cost $1500 to $2000, or more.

i've made more posts about mohammeds campaign here and here, but his entire immediate family besides his wife and kids were killed in the war already. please help him and his family survive this genocidal war. i really feel that we all have an obligation to the palestinian people because of the complicity of the entire world in this genocide. if you cant donate please share this with someone who can, every donation helps. collective participation is what really moves these fundraisers along

$10,338 raised of $50,000

[keepdrivingrry]

WILDFLOWER CASES

summary: in which harry and y/n meet because of the harries trying to get free phone cases.

face claim: Devon Carlson

guys I’m sorry for not being active I got lazy all through winter break and once I returned to school I got busy 😭

Liked by harryfan1, yourbestfriend and 565,762 others

yourinstagram nice try harries 😉 all orders were canceled BUT I’m being generous and giving you guys a chance! use the code “HARRY” for 25% off! love you all 💌

view all 1,372 comments

harryfan1 DAMN IT

harryfan2 stop the fact that she’s still doing a discount 😭

harryfan3 she’s too nice..was still looking forward to a free phone case though 🥲

↳ yourinstagram sorry!

gemmastyles stop 😂 harrystyles

↳ harryfan4 GEMMA

Liked by harryfan1, harryfan2 and 12,863 others

hsupdates guys we literally got called out 😭

view all 352 comments

harryfan1 STOP

harryfan2 i could just imagine y/n’s reaction when all the orders started coming through 💀

yourinstagram you guys I’m a harrie too I know stuff 😭

↳ harryfan3 Y/N

harryfan4 LMAOO POOR Y/N

Liked by harryfan1, harryfan2 and 13,863 others

hsupdates Harry talking about y/n and wildflower cases on bbc radio 1!

view all 357 comments

hsupdates “I heard about my fans trying to rob a phone case company from my sister. I talked to y/n the owner and she just laughed about the whole situation.”

hsupdates “yeah I apologized and invited her to one of my shows I felt terrible.”

harryfan1 STOP YOU GUYS

harryfan2 the fact that we made harry apologize for us 😭

harryfan3 HARRY INVITED

Liked by yourbestfriend, harrystyles and 876,873 others

yourinstagram I thank the harries for making my 13 year old self happy. harrystyles

view all 565 comments

harryfan1 I SAW HER SHE WAS SO NICE

paulithepsm everyone she’s my new bestie!!

↳ yourinstagram would forever be grateful for replacing harry with that title

↳ harrystyles heyyy

harrystyles I’m forgiven?

↳ yourinstagram harry…it was a joke I really wasn’t mad I promise 😭

↳ harryfan2 Y/N MESSING WITH HIM

harryfan3 HE WAS SO JUMPY TODAY

Liked by harryfan1, harryfan2 and 1,762 others

hsupdates harry on stage making everyone apologize to y/n!

view all 154 comments

harryfan1 I WAS THERE

↳ harryfan2 what exactly did he say?

↳ harryfan1 basically said “everyone here..well mostly everyone here tried to rob my dear friend y/n..now I want everyone to apologize to her!” “come on..everyone say ‘sorry y/n! “

harryfan3 she was literally laughing and smiling the entire concert harry kept going to where she was

harryfan4 he was literally so smiley tonight

Liked by harryfan1, harryfan2 and 12,864 others

hsupdates harry and y/n seen hugging tonight in NYC!

view all 413 comments

harryfan1 no cause I kind of see it

harryfan2 ITS ALWAYS THE BLURRY PICTURES

harryfan3 THEY’RE SO CUTE

harryfan4 and it all started cause of us so they should totally be thanking us tbh

↳ harryfan5 bestie we almost robbed her company 😭

thank you for reading x

[kcrabb88]

Hi! I wonder if you watched Fellow Travellers and what’s your opinion of that show. Also, I know you were inspired to write Blood Makes Noise after attending an exhibition on AIDS subject if I remember correctly. But I need to ask you if Fellow Travellers gave you any inspiration at all. Thanks.

Hi there! I have not watched Fellow Travelers, but omg, I apparently need to! A historical queer show set in DC that features both McCarthyism and the AIDS Crisis? I'm 10000% in for that. I'm definitely going to watch now <3

RE: inspiration, I did get the initial spark for a fic set in this era when I went to a museum exhibition, yep! There was an exhibit on queer spaces in NYC at the Museum of Sex in Manhattan when I was there back in the winter, and they had a bunch of stuff about the AIDS Crisis. This particular thing really impacted me, for some reason? And I had the thought that Quin and Obi-Wan would really fit well as a pair living and doing activism in this period.

I have been interested in the period for a long time, though! I was a little kid during the back half of the crisis in the early 90s (born in the late 80s, I'm giving my age away hahaha) and I have a lot of early memories of it on the news and the way my parents talked about it (my mom was a big Princess Diana and Elton John fan and did work with the Sisters of Charity, who were the same order of nuns running the main AIDS hospital in New York. THE most progressive type of Catholics in those days, for sure). Several different pieces of media that I really like have def inspired bits and pieces of this fic, including:

Angels in America

RENT

Pride (the film from 2014)

It's a Sin

Tick, Tick Boom

United in Anger: A History of ACT UP (documentary)

Let the Record Show: A Complete History of ACT UP New York (a book)

Anyway, I'm rambling, but thank you for recommending the show! I def will give it a watch.

[covid-safer-hotties]

NYC Faces Surge in COVID-19 Cases Amid Largest Summer Wave Yet - Published Aug 14, 2024

New York City, like much of the United States, is grappling with a significant summer surge in COVID-19 cases, driven by the latest variant of the virus. Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that the city is experiencing one of its largest seasonal increases since the pandemic began, with “very high” levels of viral activity detected in wastewater across the five boroughs.

Rising COVID-19 Levels in NYC As of August 9, 2024, New York City joins 27 states across the country that are reporting “very high” levels of COVID-19 viral activity in wastewater, according to the CDC’s updated surveillance data. Another 17 states report “high” levels, signaling a widespread uptick in cases nationwide. Wastewater surveillance has become a critical tool for monitoring the spread of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, offering a glimpse into potential spikes in transmission before they are reflected in clinical data.

The surge in New York City, which began to escalate in early June, has shown no signs of slowing down. Data reveals a steady increase in viral activity across all five counties: Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island. This has raised concerns among public health officials, especially as the city braces for what could be the most substantial summer wave of COVID-19 to date.

A Nationwide Summer Wave Nationally, the “very high” viral activity level reported by the CDC is the highest classification used by the agency to gauge the severity of COVID-19 spread. States like California, Texas, Florida, and Virginia are among those experiencing the most intense increases, with regions like the South and the West seeing particularly sharp spikes. Even states with lower overall viral levels, classified as “moderate,” are on alert as the trend of rising cases continues.

Dr. Ashish Jha, dean of the Brown University School of Public Health and former White House COVID-19 response coordinator, recently commented on the situation, noting that this current surge could become the largest summer wave the country has seen. While it may not reach the peaks of previous winter waves, the rapid increase in cases is concerning and could potentially strain healthcare resources in the coming weeks.

Impact on Hospitalizations and Testing The surge in COVID-19 cases is not only reflected in wastewater data but also in clinical indicators. The CDC has reported a 13-week increase in positive COVID-19 tests, with the current positivity rate exceeding 17%, up from just 0.3% in early May. This rise in cases has also led to an increase in hospitalizations, which have tripled since the lowest point of the 2023-24 COVID season. As of July 20, the hospitalization rate stood at 3.3%, compared to 1.1% on April 20.

Regions such as Texas, Oklahoma, and Louisiana are reporting some of the highest rates of positive COVID-19 tests, with positivity rates reaching as high as 24% for the week ending August 3. These figures are a stark reminder that, despite the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency declared by the World Health Organization, the virus remains a significant threat.

Preparing for the Fall In response to the ongoing surge, the CDC has reiterated the importance of vaccination as the primary defense against COVID-19. The agency recommends that everyone aged six months and older receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine when they become available this fall. The FDA has advised pharmaceutical companies to develop vaccines targeting the KP.2 strain, also known as the FLiRT variant, which is currently responsible for about 6% of COVID-19 cases nationwide.

Dr. Manisha Patel, chief medical officer for the CDC’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, emphasized the importance of maintaining population immunity through vaccination. “Population immunity has moved us out of the pandemic,” Dr. Patel stated. “Now the goal is to ensure that immunity is sustained because it wanes over time. Vaccination remains the safest and most effective way to keep our communities healthy.”

FLiRT Variant Symptoms and Prevention The FLiRT variant, although not as severe as some previous strains, has distinct symptoms that include sore throat, cough, fatigue, congestion, and a runny nose. Some individuals may also experience fever, chills, headaches, muscle aches, and a loss of taste or smell. In more severe cases, gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea may occur.

To prevent the spread of the FLiRT variant and other COVID-19 strains, health officials continue to advise the public to avoid crowded indoor spaces, wear masks in high-risk environments, and practice good hygiene. Staying up to date with vaccinations and boosters remains the most effective measure to protect against severe illness.

Conclusion As New York City and the rest of the nation confront this latest COVID-19 wave, public health measures and vigilance are crucial. While the end of the pandemic may be in sight, the ongoing presence of the virus necessitates continued efforts to protect vulnerable populations and mitigate the spread of new variants.

[allthatglittersisnotgoldrush]

The Road So Far: A Brief Summary of the Gold Rush AU (Part I, by TolkienGirl)

Recently a reader brought to our attention the need for a succinct narrative summary of the events of the AU. In addition to compiling that (please see Part I, covering the "pre-series" timeline through Maedhros' capture), we refer you to our Wordpress, which includes a timeline and an organization of our first four "Series"... that is, the order of chapter fics and one-shots, vignettes and flashbacks etc., into plot arcs that could roughly provide the basis for "All That Glitters," the prestige TV show.

EVENTS OCCURING PRE-1851

 [Stories detailing these events are sprinkled throughout the chronological timeline]

The pre-canon timeline begins in the late 1700s/early 1800s when Finwe, a talented metalworker, emigrates from Ireland, settles in Philadelphia to work in the steel-business, and marries Miriel (whose mental and physical health are precarious). Feanor is born in 1807, when Miriel dies in childbirth. Finwe, a Catholic, marries Indis, an Anglican woman (whose family disapproves of the match) in 1808. Thereafter, Fingolfin (1809) and Finarfin (1810) are born.

When Feanor is going on eighteen, Finwe relocates to New York, where Manwe Sulimo is a rising politician. Finwe is interested in locally representing Irish interests. Feanor is apprenticed in Boston to Aule, a blacksmith, and meets Nerdanel (b. 1809), then a lonely girl in finishing school.

They are married in 1827, despite the disapproval of Nerdanel’s Scottish father (Mahtan), settle in the Hudson Valley on Formenos farm, and have seven sons: Maedhros (b. 1828), Maglor (b. 1829), Celegorm (b. 1832), Caranthir (b. 1835), Curufin (b. 1836), and twins Amrod and Amras (b. 1837).

Meanwhile, Finarfin elopes with Earwen in Ulmo’s Bridge (Missouri) in 1828, temporarily earning Finwe’s disapproval. Finrod is born in 1829, Angrod in 1833, Aegnor in 1834, and Galadriel in 1836.

Fingolfin marries Anaire (of French descent) in NYC in 1830. Fingon is born in 1831, Turgon in 1833, Aredhel in 1834, and Argon in 1837.

In 1832, Manwe’s older brother Melkor Bauglir (who inherited the family plantation in the antebellum South) visits New York, taking an interest in influencing politics. At a dinner hosted by Manwe, Finwe and Feanor encounter Melkor, and Feanor (being an abolitionist, naturally) helps Melkor’s slave Rumil, an accomplished mapmaker, escape.

Following his encounter with Melkor, Feanor’s paranoia increases, which leads him to be stricter with his children (especially Maedhros) and to secretly abuse Maedhros as a way of trying to teach him to endure pain. When Nerdanel discovers this, she puts a stop to it, but Maedhros develops an early understanding that he is to serve as a protector of his family, including his father, if need be.

In 1835, Finwe is elected to City Council in New York. In 1837, Feanor buys an additional home in the City to keep tabs on his half-family. In 1841, Rumil, who has relocated to California, has met a land-holder and cattle-rancher, Elu Thingol (a Spaniard, married to a Chinese woman, Melian). Rumil and Thingol have negotiated for Rumil to take over a property called Mithrim, which contains a diamond mine that Rumil thinks Feanor would be best able to help access and harvest. Feanor conducts a secret mission to California, reconnecting with Rumil, building the Mithrim bridge, and finding a large diamond. Suspicious of Feanor’s activity, Melkor visits Formenos in April (shortly after Feanor’s departure) and takes an interest in 13-year-old Maedhros. Without Feanor to manage the farm or provide for the family, Nerdanel and the boys endure a hard winter. Maedhros begins to develop a tendency towards disturbing premonitions.

Feanor returns in 1842, gifting the diamond to Finwe. Melkor, intrigued by the happenings out west, visits Doriath but is turned away after showing lecherous attentions to 13-year-old Luthien. He begins to explore the continental U.S. more broadly, and, in doing business with a former nautical mapmaker, takes an interest in his 18-year-old daughter Estrela (Arien). After Estrela refuses his proposal of marriage, Melkor has his protégé Mairon capture and torture her. Renamed “Belle,” she is then enslaved as part of a workforce that Melkor uses to advance his westward projects, supervised by a former plantation overseer of his, Cosomoco Gothmog.

In 1843, Morgoth’s steel manufacturing enterprise (one of his eastern ventures) is found to be corrupt and rife with worker abuse. He is recalled from his western travels and sanctioned. He is confined to house arrest rather than being imprisoned. Meanwhile, Feanor sends Maedhros and Maglor to be educated in the city, though he chooses not to send any of the younger boys, which negatively contributes to Celegorm’s self-perception. For the next several years, Maedhros struggles against the temptations of high society while Maglor begins a promising musical education/career. There is increasing unrest between Feanor and his half-family, but Fingon and Maedhros form a very strong mutual friendship.

In 1847, Finwe retires from City Council (with a ceili/party at Formenos). Maedhros meets Finrod’s friend Esther Landau, a young Jewish woman. Feanor and Finwe intend to have Maedhros fill Finwe’s seat on City Council, while Maedhros is more interested in proposing to Esther. In the end, neither event comes to pass: at the end of 1848, Maedhros rejects his grandfather and father’s plans, quarrels with Feanor, and privately breaks off his relationship with Esther without ever introducing her to his family. Just before this, Finrod departs on a solo western adventure.

Meanwhile, Melkor has been quietly released from his imprisonment. In addition to his frontier developments, which he has been remotely managing, he now advises Manwe and other council members. Feanor is aware enough of this to wish for Maedhros to help him investigate Melkor’s doings.  By 1849, Maedhros has sunk into a debauched lifestyle, which Fingon (studying to be a doctor under Olorin the physician) is largely unaware of but which Fingolfin notices and is dismayed by. Increasingly paranoid, Feanor threatens Fingolfin’s life after a tense spring and growing conflicts. This creates a rift between Fingon and Maedhros for a time.

In 1850, Melkor has Finwe murdered on the front steps of his home and steals the diamond. Feanor is convinced that Melkor had a hand in the murder, but is unable to completely convince Fingolfin. Maedhros and Fingon reconcile to an increased degree, although both still feel uncertain.

EVENTS OCCURRING 1851 – mid-1852 (“SERIES ONE”)

The timeline for the story officially begins in 1851, in New York. Finrod has recently returned from his western exploration, during which he befriended Beren, whose (now-extinct) tribe is indigenous to the Pacific Northwest, and who, some years before, met and fell in love with Luthien in Doriath. Still unable to seek justice for Finwe’s death, Feanor now wishes to move out west and join Rumil at Fort Mithrim. Feanor and Maedhros gain information from Finrod about the gold prospects in California.

Manwe selects Melkor as the spearhead of the western railroad expansion. Disgusted by this assignment of power, Fingolfin agrees to join Feanor in relocating. Finrod intends to go as well. Finarfin and the rest of his family stays behind, but Galadriel (Artanis) secretly stows away with Fingolfin’s train. Feanor, who is leaving first, has been entrusted with the money to procure wagons at Ulmo’s Bridge in Missouri, where Finarfin’s father-in-law Olwe lives. Nerdanel initially opposes the plan to go west, but is persuaded by the inevitable.

On the road, Feanor and his family encounter Gothmog, who taunts them with Melkor’s rising power and the diamond taken from Finwe’s body. Gothmog injures Nerdanel, which increases Feanor’s resolve to move quickly and trust nobody. In early July 1851, Feanor double-crosses Fingolfin and the townspeople at Ulmo’s Bridge, stealing enough wagons for himself and destroying the res, then killing a number of the town’s militia. He then escapes by burning the titular bridge behind them, knocking Maedhros unconscious when he (Maedhros) refuses to cooperate. Nerdanel, having refused to join in this plan, remains behind.

Now wanted, Feanor, Maedhros, and the other boys continue west, collecting new allies along the way, largely through Maedhros’ recruiting efforts. Celegorm engages in a skirmish that ends with a man being killed and a new manhunt being launched. Maedhros also barters sex for information with a string of barmaids and prostitutes along the way, including Melkor’s spy Thuringwethil, who assaults and scars him by way of claiming a “trophy” for Bauglir.

Rumil tries and fails to communicate to Feanor that increased hostility in the vicinity of Mithrim means it is no longer a safe place for them to join forces. Mairon has insinuated himself as a spy within Mithrim, for a time, and then massacred several of Rumil’s best men. An increased number of militia-men of unknown allegiance are also patrolling the countryside and harassing Mithrim’s inhabitants (who include natives tribespeople and former slaves).

Meanwhile, Fingolfin and his family arrive at Ulmo’s Bridge to find themselves betrayed. After seeing Nerdanel, who intends to return east to Indis, Fingolfin chooses to advance his course with a northward river-crossing. Turgon’s wife Elenwe gives birth to their daughter Idril on the trail, which causes the family as a whole to stop for a time (as autumn closes in). After leaving Elenwe and Idril with a settler family, Fingolfin’s company continues onward. They encounter a posse seeking to revenge Celegorm’s kill, which results in Argon’s death. Fingolfin’s company flees farther north and is caught in a Nebraska blizzard which takes Anaire’s life. While the rest starve, snowbound, they are rescued by Haleth (a native leader who works cooperatively with Thingol, and, unbeknownst to Thingol, with Beren) and her company, which includes Beren and Wachiwi, another native woman who forms a close relationship with Fingon.

Shortly before arriving in Mithrim (between Christmas and New Year’s 1852), Feanor and company encounter Mairon spying on them. After being taunted and questioned by Maedhros, he escapes.

At Mithrim, Rumil is somewhat reluctant to assimilate Feanor’s company. It is revealed that Feanor’s interventions in Mithrim’s development a decade past led to a falling out with Thingol of Doriath, specifically with respect to the diamond mine and the diamond that Feanor gave Finwe. Feanor returns to mining, and also begins to launch attacks on the railroad. Maedhros and Celegorm, on an exploratory mission, discover that the nearby Mount Diablo is being excavated.

Amid growing tensions within Mithrim in the late spring of 1852, Amrod decides to write to Nerdanel. Rumil attempts to mail the letter for him, but returns seriously injured/poisoned. Amrod then rides out himself. Urged by Maedhros and Amras, Feanor and his sons go to find him, but end up embroiled in a standoff with Gothmog at the Utumno headquarters of the railroad project. Feanor is mortally wounded by Gothmog. Maedhros leads the return to Mithrim, but after Feanor dies, rides out without his brothers to attempt to track Amrod down. Mairon and then Gothmog surround and capture Maedhros. Gothmog reveals that Amrod’s horse slipped down a riverbank, and he is presumed dead.

Maedhros is delivered to Melkor in “Angband,” the fortress built within “Thangorodrim” (Mount Diablo).

[jules-has-notes]

2017 VoicePlay winter activities — ch-ch-ch-ch-changes

With a new year came new projects and collaborators, as well as several personal milestones for the guys.

.

Auld Lang Syne

VoicePlay started the year on someting of a bittersweet note, finally making the offical announcement of Tony's retirement from the group. Fans had been remarking on his increasing absences from VoicePlay's content and concerts over the preceding year, so the formal confirmation that he had left was sad, but certainly less upsetting in knowing that it was an amicable decision.

Five years of frequent, extended travel had taken their toll. Tony wanted to spend more time at home with his family, and refocus his creative energies on new projects through PattyCake Productions, the studio he and Layne had been building over the previous year.

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On a happier note, Eli and Ashley entered the home stretch in preparing for their wedding.

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Hot and cold

As they said in the audition video, the remaining guys didn't let a vacancy disrupt their other plans. They continued to alternate between Erik Winger and J.None as their stand-in baritones as they hit the road almost immediately.

First they picked up Winger and headed south for a stylish wedding in the Florida Keys.

Then they scooped up J.None and returned to snowy NYC for the annual APAP conference after skipping it the year before.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by J.None 🧈🎶 🎙📝🎬🎹🎸📽🤣 (@itsjnone)

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Once they got home, it was time for some more rehearsals before they performed at a couple local private events and filmed their next video.

This song wasn't fast enough already, guys? Yeesh!

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Jacobson nuptials

And of course everyone gathered to celebrate at Eli and Ashley's wedding.

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From the road to the air

Toward the end of the month, Layne and Tony gathered up a few family members and friends and headed to southern Florida for their next PattyCake project.

When they got home, VoicePlay snagged J.None again and flew out west to "crash Eli's honeymoon" and headline the annual Napa Valley A Cappella Extravaganza.

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Part of the extended family

During their week at home between road dates, Earl got to meet Jodi Benson, voice of the animated Ariel, during a Nemo post-show meet and greet session.

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Round and round

The next weekend, the guys and Winger headed up to New Jersey for a show in Rahway with opening act Garden State Sound Quartet. The concert received some preliminary hype in the local press, and a very nice recap.

photos by Love Imagery, via New Jersey Stage ; and by Garden State Sound Quartet

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Then they popped home long enough to pick up J.None and Max Herskovitz for a five day trip to the Bahamas aboard the Disney Dream. While the other guys were at sea, Layne got into some tech geekery for an interview with Lens Depot as part of their customer spotlight series.

Once they disembarked, they bade farewell to Max and scooped up Layne for a quick jaunt to Maryland.

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Making a name

After a few quiet days at home, they met up with Winger again to sing the national anthem as the opening to Full Sail University's annual alumni Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

During a shopping trip the next day, Layne found a hat with surprisingly accurate embroidery. He joked that it "should have a question mark at the end", and his sister noted that a needle and thread could easily amend it. I'd argue that, like a lot of performing artists, they're more "situationally famous".

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Frozen treats

The weekend took VoicePlay (again with Winger) north to St. Joseph, MN for a show attended by several longtime fans and local gent Chris Rupp.

sleepy Layne, Paul, and Erik heading north very early in the morning

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Home time

Over next week, Layne, Tony, and Earl were busy filming PattyCake's next project, "Beauty and the Bieber", at several locations around Orlando. Meanwhile, Geoff and Kathy took advantage of the slight lull in their schedules and had a babymoon date night at a Take 6 / Manhattan Transfer concert.

But, of course, the VoicePlay momentum picked up again at their weekly planning meeting.

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Ahoy-hoy

The week after that, they gathered up J.None and Max again for another loop around the Caribbean on the Disney Dream.

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When they got home, they headed over to a local art school to perform at a fundraiser for their theater program. The lineup for the evening also included Brian Fortuna from Dancing with the Stars and Orshi Horvath, and a newly formed local boy band called the Beatline Boys.

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A post shared by Cyndi Ansley Stein (@cyndiansleystein)

VoicePlay accompany Brian and Orshi for a dance

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Family time

The next few days were spent doing their own thing and marking some big milestones. Geoff and Kathy had their baby shower. Earl and Nick bought a new home.

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Back to work

The final weekend of the season was bookended by video shoots with new collaborators. Friday saw them team up with theme park pal Matthew Darren for a club jam mashup, while Monday brought a peppy breakup song with Broadway performer John Pinto, Jr.

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Once those were in the can, it was time to hit the road again, but that's a story for a another time.

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[the-nyanguard-party]

Hello, kind-hearted soul,

My name is Mohamed. I am neither a robot nor a scammer. My fundraising campaign is legitimate and registered under Gaza donations campaign number 192. I lost my entire family in a dark moment — my mother, father, and siblings. The pain left behind by that tragedy is indescribable. Though I survived with moderate physical injuries, my soul is shattered. My three young children are waiting for me, and my wife, who is battling uterine cancer, is growing weaker by the day. Every minute feels like the weight of the world is on my shoulders; the grief of losing my family and the constant suffering is unbearable.

Winter is approaching, and the cold is merciless. We are without shelter, without warmth, without protection from this harsh world. I beg you from the depths of my pain and sorrow, please help me buy a simple tent to shelter my children, my sick wife, and me. Even a small amount, as little as 5 dollars, could be the lifeline we desperately need. I am pleading for your compassion and generosity in this difficult time. There is nothing harder than feeling powerless while watching your loved ones suffer.