Does everyone know that one found family post going around that's something like, "What do you MEAN they all go their separate ways after the journey??"

That's how I feel about Ted going back to Kansas.

To be clear, I'm not arguing that it's an unlikely ending to the series. I think it's very likely, especially when I consider a lot of the cool meta people have been writing lately, but that likeliness leaves a sour taste in my mouth because what's waiting for Ted in Kansas? "Henry!" the fandom cries and yes, obviously, but that doesn't feel like enough to me (which I realize sounds like a callous statement regarding a father and son, but hear me out). The only other things Kansas has are an ex-wife, a horrifically unprofessional step-dad in the making, and a long line of comforts that Ted has outgrown. I've noticed that this season in particular Ted has been moving away from his American roots: he misses his BBQ sauce but manages to find a perfect replacement in Amsterdam, he's finding solace in paintings for temporary homesickness, he's using "football" and "maths" naturally in conversation, many of his speeches lately have been about how he once WAS this American so-and-so but has changed significantly since then. From a canonical perspective, Henry is the only thing in Kansas that's good for Ted anymore and even if we put that aside for a moment (which I don't think we should) it seems quite significant to me that Ted has spent three successful years parenting from across the pond.

Is that ideal? No, but Ted Lasso hasn't gone out of its way to paint this separation as a failure, or a crippling blow to Ted or Henry, despite them obviously missing each other a great deal at times. I'll admit that this aspect is absolutely colored by my own bias. As someone who doesn't want kids herself, I dislike the implicit message that a parent must give up everything they want/need in order to be 100% available to their child. I'm of the belief that there's a big difference between loving/raising your child and lacking a life outside of them because Every Aspect of Your Existence Must Serve Their Direct Needs Until the Magical Age of 18, so I've never jived with the "Ted is a horrible father who abandoned Henry!" takes. Not just because I think the show has made it clear that Henry doesn't feel abandoned, but because it tells viewers that parents can't have anything for themselves once they've brought a life into this world... which feels pretty shitty to me. Thus, that whole Henry-based argument rings as unpersuasive both from my biased perspective and a canonical perspective: "In order to be labeled a good father Ted MUST go back to Henry in Kansas, leaving behind every bond he's formed here, despite the fact that he's spent a significant amount of time making this long-distance relationship work really, really well."

Putting Henry aside and going back to my original point above, sending Ted to Kansas requires the audience to imagine up a life for him that has never existed on screen. Sure, we can assume that Ted will form new bonds and rekindle old ones there, but that would exist entirely off screen. Like the story that asks you to ignore the family that's been built right in front of you in favor of the headcanoned one that the characters are separating for, a Kansas ending would ask us to toss aside three seasons worth of family, community, and still developing relationships for... whatever it is we'd personally imagine up post-series. Audiences (by and large) don't WANT their protagonist to end up with [insert OCs here], they want them to stay with the developed cast, whether that's a romance, a friendship, or a family. To me, there's nothing satisfying about imagining Ted in a location the series has never explored with people who don't exist yet except for, as said, an ex, a man who justifiably makes him incredibly uncomfortable, and his child whom he already has a fantastic relationship with in the community where Ted is happy.

There are a lot of other reasons why this ending would be a big disappointment to me, most notably the rejection of untraditional forms of parenting + the message that Ted was always destined to "reset," returning to precisely where he started out, like he's just a hope dispenser who isn't allowed to significantly grow himself. Sure, you can divorce and get better about managing your anxiety... but making a permanent, positive life change? Nah, let's act like this is an episodic show and toss you back to the beginning. I've seen a couple of people compare Ted to Mary Poppins and while a part of my does like that connection, another part cringes at the idea of him playing the role of magical benefactor, his own future happiness deemed insignificant compared to the lives he's already changed. Thanks for the help, Ted! Hope you manage to find some more happiness for yourself back among everything you've spent the series leaving behind. Open your umbrella and let the wind take you; wherever you land and how hard the fall is doesn't matter because the show is over.

So there's a lot going on for me, however, the found family bit is where I'm truly stuck. You're really going to build up this community and Ted's place in it for three seasons, moving him from "wanker" all the way to beloved coach, only to pack him back to Kansas after he's finally carved out a place for himself? Kansas, the place the show has consistently argued has nothing to offer Ted except for the child he hasn't actually lost? Yeah no, sorry, I'm not a fan.

Which doesn't mean I think Ted Lasso is going to become a terrible show if they choose this - again, very likely - ending... but I will personally be pulling a Nick Fury about it.

UK Home Secretary sounds alarm over deepfakes ahead of elections

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/uk-home-secretary-sounds-alarm-over-deepfakes-ahead-of-elections/

UK Home Secretary sounds alarm over deepfakes ahead of elections

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Criminals and hostile state actors could hijack Britain’s democratic process by deploying AI-generated “deepfakes” to mislead voters, UK Home Secretary James Cleverly cautioned in remarks ahead of meetings with major tech companies. 

Speaking to The Times, Cleverly emphasised the rapid advancement of AI technology and its potential to undermine elections not just in the UK but globally. He warned that malign actors working on behalf of nations like Russia and Iran could generate thousands of highly realistic deepfake images and videos to disrupt the democratic process.

“Increasingly today the battle of ideas and policies takes place in the ever-changing and expanding digital sphere,” Cleverly told the newspaper. “The era of deepfake and AI-generated content to mislead and disrupt is already in play.”

The Home Secretary plans to urge collective action from Silicon Valley giants like Google, Meta, Apple, and YouTube when he meets with them this week. His aim is to implement “rules, transparency, and safeguards” to protect democracy from deepfake disinformation.

Cleverly’s warnings come after a series of deepfake audios imitating Labour leader Keir Starmer and London Mayor Sadiq Khan circulated online last year. Fake BBC News videos purporting to examine PM Rishi Sunak’s finances have also surfaced.

The tech meetings follow a recent pact signed by major AI companies like Adobe, Amazon, Google, and Microsoft during the Munich Security Conference to take “reasonable precautions” against disruptions caused by deepfake content during elections worldwide.

As concerns over the proliferation of deepfakes continue to grow, the world must confront the challenges they pose in shaping public discourse and potentially influencing electoral outcomes.

(Image Credit: Lauren Hurley / No 10 Downing Street under OGL 3 license)

See also: Stability AI previews Stable Diffusion 3 text-to-image model

Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo.

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Tags: ai, artificial intelligence, deepfakes, democracy, disinformation, elections, ethics, government, home secretary, james cleverly, misinformation, Society, uk, uk election, usa election, vote, voting

Describe an NPC who is important to your character's story. Is this person still a part of your character's life? What are your character's feelings towards them? Have those feelings shifted, or have they always been constant?

[meta] Vera Beenhakker is born in 1971, when Inge is twenty five years old. She holds her daughter and it is the best thing that has ever been held by her hands, the best thing she will ever hold. Look, there was never a doubt whether Inge loved her daughter. This was an undeniable fact, something that was a part of her the same way Vera had once been a part of her. She loved her daughter. Sometimes love is not enough. Sometimes love is not all a child needs. Vera grew up with a father who worked and hated his life and a mother who didn't and hated hers. She grew up with a mother who suffered from night terrors for the first eight years of her life, making her a creature of dark-rimmed eyes and skittish movements. Maybe there was never a chance for her to have a good mother — maybe Sanne took it, maybe Inge let her take it. That's neither here or there. This is about Vera. Vera, who moved from Wanneperveen to Amsterdam when she was eight. Who didn't understand these city folk at first but grew to understand them. Who was loud and daring and funny. Who missed her father and hated him at the same time. Vera was ambitious and bright, went to university. Vera was angry. Vera had a mother who was wrapped up in something she wasn't allowed to understand. Something her mother tried to keep her from, and whether that was out of protection or out of an unwillingness to share, neither of them knew. Vera had a mother who would disappear at night, and return without opening the door. Who covered the keyhole to her daughter's door, with no explanation. Vera didn't understand, but maybe she did. Her mother was in love with another woman, and that woman had done something to her. Changed her. (That Sanne had killed Inge, Vera didn't figure out, but she knew well enough.) Vera studied, got a good job, got a boyfriend. Never got kids, because she knew that motherhood wasn't a fit for all. (It hadn't been for her mother.) She didn't see much of her mother, after a certain point, and when she did, she looked the same. Never a day older. Always with new jewlery. Always over the moon, ecstatic, but never glad enough to stay. Vera hated her mother. Vera hated her father. Vera loved them both. Vera died with them in the room when she was thirty six, three years older than her mother had been when she had died. (Vera asked her mother for the truth and her mother gave it. Her mother helped her sleep with a soft touch. Her mother held her, listened to her, spoke to her. She was loved and she loved in return. Time may have ran out, but there was always that — that love.)

RANDOM RELIGION HEADCANONS.

- as i mentioned in a previous meta, claire's original family name is actually roodveldt, and at least for what concerns her father's side, they originated from amsterdam. while claire's grandpa was named dael, and died way before she was born and not much is known about him (from her point of view specifically), her grandma's name was mendel and lived four houses away from claire's growing up. in the off chance that it ever comes into a conversation, she will refer to the woman as safta rather than grandma. ironically enough claire is a spit image of mendel in her youth.

- claire's mom was born into a roman catholic family, and though she grew up disillusioned in the belief of god she still converted of her own volition after her engagement to claire's dad. however she was very adamant that her kids would be given the choice to get close to religion / spirituality once they would be able to actually understand it (no child likes to be forced to attend sunday school after all)

- being the social butterfly she is, claire did go to hebrew school, mostly because all of her friends were going and a little push from her safta to follow family traditions. her bat mitzvah ended up being on a budget since her dad was already dead for a couple of years by that time and money was tight. claire obviously didn't mind because she was an angel child, but her mom always felt bad about it anyways; all the adults invited were mindful to gift money, which ended up becoming claire's college fund down the line.

- before the RC outbreak was very intransigent regarding kosher food. new york is full of trusted delis so it's never really been a problem growing up. post outbreak she might break the rules sometimes - specifically during assignments. claire has eaten a snake before, it was awful (because they're not kosher) but she survived it so yeah. after the outbreak you'll mostly find kosher foods and drinks bought from small businesses in her kitchen, with the exception of a few snacks that are usually for the kids (especially of indian origin since rani does stay over with her a lot throughout the years)

- the more time passes the less claire goes to the synagogue. it's not like she doesn't believe in god anymore but more like her faith shakes a lot given her line of work. she prays every night, though it might be a blink and you'll miss it moment from an external point of view since she never voices them. her prayer is usually the same, to keep her loved ones safe. however claire still makes sure to donate money during charity events, and trying to at least attend those since her presence and notoriety brings sponsors most times. she was offered to lead a youth group at some point, but unfortunately had to refuse as it would be a time commitment that she's not sure fits with her work schedule.

- claire is very in touch with the jewish community in her neighbourhood. they all know her story, and she's beloved by many women who have taken over the role of aunties throughout the years. while at times it feels overwhelming due to the fact that claire's family has always been very small, she's grateful to have to this external support system. also silly fact: most of the dates she goes to are matches these women find for her, and it shows though she's always very thankful for the efforts.

What I've (Not) Watched Lately

I’ve meant to do another one of these for so long there’s quite a number of things I’ve watched or tried to watch. Under the cut because it will get long, but I need to get my feelings out, so I can move on.

I watched 3 episodes of La Brea and then gave up because by episode 3 I should care at least one character and I just didn’t. And plot-holes, lack-of-logic-wise it was worse than Revolution (and that says a LOT). How do people survive the fall and flashlights work but apparently no car does and all plane electronics go out?

I know I shouldn’t expect logic from TV shows, silly me. Anyway, it’s a shame because based on the premise this could have been the new Terra Nova (gah, I think I need a rewatch.) As if I don’t watch too many things already.

I tried Midnight Mass and quit after one episode after I asked a friend and checked doesthedogdie, because ep ending was a very nasty surprise and apparently that continues throughout the show and nope, dead cats and lots of blood & gore to follow etc. are not for me and that’s fine.

I watched two episodes of Moon Knight, but like with La Brea, just didn’t care about the characters (even though Osccar Issac is hot). The plot was at least better but not enough – and I wasn’t in the right space for the moral dilemmas (as in everyone being wrong in some way) it presented. I might give it another go some time, though.

I finally quit New Amsterdam after 4x8, because it got boring and I can’t stand Max (and Max and Helen – and to think I really shipped them in the beginning but the put it off at least a season too long and meh) and I hated the about re: hospital policy, because we can’t make non-capitalist ways work, can we?

I half watched No Time to Die. It was the worst of the Daniel Craig’s Bond movies, IMO. Madeline came out of nowhere and hence, again, I just didn’t care that much about her and everything. IDK how they couldn’t have better established the supposedly core motivation of the movie better in 2 and half hours, FFS. A minute or two less shooting would do the trick, I think.

I also watched Un peuple et son roi, because it was on national TV and it had been on my list. European production is always a nice change of tone and it was okay, but nothing special.

Now, on to more engaging things.

Speaking of European production, I watched Heartstopper and it was fluffy, light, and adorable, and I am looking forward to S2.

I’ve also watched a ton of currently airing shows (now ended/ending for the season.)

The Rookie was a pleasant time-killer, as always.

I need to quit 911 Lone Star. The only good thing I remember from this season was that short Tommy/Julius venture. So, yeah.

I only watched episode 1 of S7 of LoT and IDK if I’ll watch it through the end. Maybe just the ep(s) where Wentworth Miller was back? Otherwise I lost interest and it also got cancelled. So, depends on my mood/state of boredom.

I continued watching CPD, mainly for Tracy, of course, and it also was a nice way to kill time.

I also started Chicago Fire mid-season purely due to Brett Dalton guest-starring, but then got attached to a few other people (mostly Violet) and kept watching. And I was so satisfied with Brett’s character’s arc. It was a healing experience, nevermind the different show and all. I was happy.

I also continued watching Law and Order: SVU & Organized Crime (which I got into at the end of last summer) and these, too, are excellent time-killers. Although, for such an old show – and the same goes for the Chicago franchise – and big fandoms, the said fandoms are surely conservative AF. I guess if I want any content for random unconventional rare ships that pop into my mind, I’ll have to make it myself. If only I had the time & energy. Oh well, I guess it’ll just stay in my head.

The height of my weekly watching was the FBI franchise, as you may have noticed, in particularly the spin-offs, in particularly, the FBI: Most Wanted spin-off. I actually meta-d about those sporadically as I went along.

So in short, FBI is more or less boring and I hate them going back and forth with propping OA up for positive ‘representation’ just to then make him bow down to the ‘way the job is done’, ugh. But Shantel van Santen did bring a bit of fresh air to the show at the end of the season.

FBI: International is what it is and I wrote about it before, but I was satisfied with the season ending (I only caught up today) re: Scott’s mum and as I said before, I am invested in these characters, so I’ll keep watching.

The new boss on FBI: Most Wanted also brought in a lot of fresh-air and as you’ve probably noticed I also got invested to the point of starting giffing again (some of which I still have to do, but see: time and & energy).

Although I’ve just learned Ivan’s leaving the show, WTF. Going like that, this show will be worse than LoT; only two original characters remaining already in S4.

But, again, I’m invested in the rest of them – I also really like Kristin and Hana and Barnes – so I’ll tune in for the next season.

Oh, yeah, I’ve also been watching Stalker, because of reasons. I still have 4 episodes left, but It’s very good, too bad there was just one season.

Phew. I think that’s all. I watched a few other things I believe I talked about in separate posts already.

Reader

Aleena Chia (2022) ‘The metaverse, but not the way you think: game engines and automation beyond game development’, Critical Studies in Media Communication, 39:3, 191-200, DOI: 10.1080/15295036.2022.2080850

In this article Aleena Chia analises the automaticity of game engines as tools and how they affect the production of games, as well as the people who produce them. The author points out different aspects of the technology development in games and more, such as the automatisation of game engines being used to ease the workload of artists and not to replace them, or how on one hand they allow the game developers to have more freedom and creativity to build their game universe, but on the other hand how it constrains and locks the developers in certain systems. This article perfectly reflects the medium specificity of the digital area regarding gaming, as well as beyond (“meta”). As a person who follows the updates released by game engines such as Unreal Engine and Unity, and the introduction of A.I. in the workflow, I am excited but also worried of how the artistic side of the digital media, including video games, will evolve.

Blom, J. (2023) ‘Video Game Characters and Transmedia Storytelling: The Dynamic Game Character’. Amsterdam University Press.

In this book, Blom discusses the importance of characters and how they stand as pillars for transmedia objects. For his analysis he focuses on three elements: transmedia storytelling, Japanese studies and game studies. Throughout the book, Blom treats characters as individual study subjects, not as just part of the narratives, explaining how characters have different transtextual identities. In one of the chapters, he also discusses strategies on how to control a character’s transtextual identities. He refers to these types of characters as “dynamic game characters”. In the final chapters of the book, Blom discusses the future of dynamic characters as a part of the affect economics in digital media, underlining how they enhance personal experiences. As an artist specialised in characters, I found it very useful to see a different perspective of characters, not from narratives perspective. It also helped me have a better understanding on how to build my characters in a way that they would be coherent through transmedia.

Devine, T. C., Presnell, W. A., & Miller, S. (2014). ‘Games as Art and Kant’s Moral Dilemma: What Can Ethical Theory Reveal About the Role of the Game Designer as Artist?’ Games and Culture, 9(4), 277-310. https://doi.org/10.1177/1555412014538812

This article discusses the importance of ethics in video games and the responsibility artists and designers have. With a variety of research, images and diagrams, the authors use Kant’s ethical theory to explain concepts such as “categorical imperative”, “maxims”, “duties”, “kingdom of ends” etc. Moving forward into the article, the authors analyse the game Fallout 3 by Bethesda Game Studios through the eyes of Immanuel Kant and how he would react in the choice-making situations the player is put in during the game, applying the theories they previously explained. I have always enjoyed learning about philosophy, so learning about Kant’s ethics theory and seeing it applied to games ethics, was intriguing. It helped me realise the responsibility I have as a game designer and how my decisions, like character design, narratives and mechanics (story progression based on decision making) can have an impact over the players.

Fizek, S. (2022) ‘Playing at a Distance: Borderlands of Video Game Aesthetic.’ 1st edn. Cambridge: The MIT Press.

This book presents the variety in which players can play and interact with games and how, by their diverse constructs, games can influence us. Throughout the chapters in which she analyses the different types of play, Fizek introduces a new approach by adding the concept of distance, which means the player’s immediate action is now computerised. In the postlude, the author states “I was fascinated not only by how we play with computers, but also how they play with us”, which I believe to be the essence of the book. I found this book intriguing as it showed me a different approach from the classical view of ludic player-game interaction. In a society in which technology evolves at an extreme speed and the video game industry plays a bigger and bigger role, I believe it is essential for game developers and artists to understand how the digitalised medium interferes with the fundamentals of play.

Harrer, S. (2018;2019;) ‘Games and Bereavement : How Video Games Represent Attachment, Loss and Grief.’ 1st edn. Bielefeld, Germany: transcript Verlag.

This book analyses how bereavement and grief are being represented in video games. Starting by explaining the theory of ergodic narratives and game interactivity, in the first chapter, Harrer discusses the “myths” such as “ergodicity myth” and “Interactivity myth” to explain how they influence the affect and emotional involvement of the player. Further, she talks about bereavement and grief using Freud’s theory and Kübler-Ross five stages of grief, which is the most famous bereavement model in Western culture. In the second part of the book, the author uses the previous theory to discuss how different types of loss are being represented in games. Harrer also discusses ways of using game designs as art therapy for grief. I found this book intriguing as it analyses a very sensitive subject, which ironically has been desensitised in today’s games and media. Because I have an affinity for dark fantasy, this book helped me consider how I should interpret and depict death, grief and bereavement in a realistic and respectful way.

Maureen Thomas (2009) ‘Taking a chance on losing yourself in the game’, Digital Creativity, 20:4, 253-275, DOI: 10.1080/14626260903290265

In the third chapter of this article entitled “playing the hero”, Maureen talks about the female representation as main characters in games, taking the character Lara Croft from Tom Rider as model. This article analyses how Lara Croft is more than just a female character, she is a “female avatar in a men’s shaping”, as Maureen states. The author argues how in order for the woman to be the heroic main character, she has to be aligned to the norm predefined by men and go through many previously considered manly challenges, while also being a symbol of femininity, with sensual moves and exaggerated female body. This source helped me see a different perspective on female representation in games, that even the most famous female characters who want to be seen as feminist and empowering women, are still moulded through the masculine stereotypes and the male gaze. It also made me question my own concepts and use of feminine characters, as a character designer, and how subconsciously may be influenced by the already existing structures and stereotypes.

Sang Jin Kim, Kyung Hoon Kim & Pekka Mattila (2012) ‘The Role of Fashion in the Characters of Online Games’, Journal of Global Fashion Marketing, 3:2, 81-88, DOI: 10.1080/20932685.2012.10593110

This article presents the importance of fashion as a visual stimulus and proposes a conceptual model that evaluates the relation between character fashion, storytelling and game satisfaction in Massive Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games (MMORPG). With strong research and evidence, the authors argue that character fashion plays a key role in the immersion and satisfaction of the player. They also state that people being able to find themselves in the character also increases the level of their satisfaction towards the game, as it can be demonstrated through all the items purchased with real money in order to create unique and fashionable characters. I found this research very interesting and useful as it is strongly connected with my area of practice. Clothes play a big part in the design of the character, as it gives personality and uniqueness. This article helped me understand the importance of characters' clothing and how it influences the relationship between the game and the player.

Shaffer, D.W. (2008;2007;2006;) ‘How computer games help children learn’. 1st edn. Basingstoke;New York;: Palgrave Macmillan

This book discusses how games can be used as teaching tools. The author begins by describing what makes an activity a game and how not games are “fun” or win-lose situations. Shaffer uses epistemic games made by researchers to exemplify how they can be used for a wide range of teaching. Each chapter talks about a game project: “The Debating Game”, to teach epistemology, “Digital Zoo” for physics and engineering knowledge, “The Pandora Project” which teaches values through medical procedures and biology, “Science.net” that teaches journalism and “Urban Science” which revolves around building cities. I strongly believe this book is very useful, even if it’s from 2008, as it perfectly demonstrates the epistemic side of the gaming industry, and in present days we get to see more and more games like these. This book made me think about how I can incorporate educational elements in my games and characters to add a more complex dimension to them.

Summers, T. (2016) ‘Understanding video game music’. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.

In this book, Summers discusses how music and games have intertwined elements and are more similar than we think. In the first part, he focuses on describing the musical components of games and their functionality, while the second part focuses on the roles and effects of music in games. The author starts with an analogy of the word “play” that is used for both musical instruments and games, which I thought to be very interesting. Throughout the book, Summers explains how music is also used in games to identify characters' nationalities or underline their theme, as well as how music can actually stimulate players' performance in action games. As music and sounds play a crucial part in the immersive experience of the games, I found this book ideal for someone who wants to understand how music influences the gaming experience.

Vandewalle, A., Malliet, S., & Demoen, K. (2023). ‘Playing with Character: A Framework of Characterization in Video Games.’ Games and Culture, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.1177/15554120231179496

This article focuses on analysing the understanding of the ways through which games present character traits. Throughout the discussion, the authors explain the relation between the components that do the characterization: developers, voice actors, and the players through the character customization, exemplifying using Aarseth’s 1997 ergodic characterisation. They also talk about different aspects of how the narratives and characters are directly influenced by each other, analysing and explaining the character construct elements through the story world cues, as well as the medium cues. As a character artist I found it fascinating to see how every small detail from actions, voice, environment etc, can build up the story and complexity of the character, directly and indirectly. This article helped me think of new ways to add detail and background on my own characters in order to make them more rounded and with depth.

Thursday, September 7th: She works hard for the money

One cool thing about not drinking is no hangover. This sounds obvious but it has a snowball effect. A hangover can last way longer than you might think, and a lack of one after two weeks of abstaining starts to feel like its own kind of high.

Two weeks. That's how long after heavy drinking I feel like "me" again.

One slightly less cool thing about not drinking? You no longer have a hangover to blame for not wanting to answer emails.

I gave myself a long morning today after waking up at 7 a.m. to a very grumpily attended Meta Frosted Flakes meeting. Then I made myself burrata toast with basil, honey, sea salt, and pepper.

Makenna and I got pedicures (desperately needed), after which we stopped by Trader Joe's to pick up sunflowers. I also Facetimed with Kiera about potentially visiting her in Amsterdam and flying through London. Flights round trip could be only about $600 if purchased early enough.

Oh. And I also received my "stop your wine-ing herbal supplement meant to replace alcohol". Here is the honest review I left on the website.

"Come on people! This is an emperor's new clothes situation. Not only am I not relaxed, but I am actively annoyed that this was marketed as a red wine substitute. Like maybe if you are a rabbit or in prison. But this powder is held together with wishes for a more bohemian time. One star for great advertising, but nothing drives you to want an actual glass of wine than spending $40 plus shipping for sand and a dream. I don't blame the company: Grifter's gotta grift, but shame on my fellow reviewers for trying to convince other people that this is A) palatable, or B) effective when they are actually just trying to convince themselves. Adaptogens are the new electrolytes: We talk about them a lot but they are stupid. If my review can convince one normal human who is just trying to spice up Sober September to buy themselves a massage instead, I will consider this message successful."

Going to go eat ramen and think about my life choices.

[ad_1] For people who have previously had a heart attack, taking a daily aspirin could reduce their risk of a repeat cardiac event or stroke, according to a recent Danish study.The findings were presented at the ESC Congress 2023 in Amsterdam this week."Our findings support current clinical guidelines on aspirin therapy following myocardial infarction (heart attack)," said study author Dr. Anna Meta Kristensen of Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospital in Denmark, in a statement provided to Fox News Digital.‘LAUGHTER THERAPY’ IS SHOWN TO REDUCE HEART DISEASE RISK IN BRAZILIAN STUDY: 'EXCITING TO SEE'"The key takeaway of our study is that patients who are non-adherent to aspirin therapy following myocardial infarction have an increased risk of a composite outcome consisting of recurrent myocardial infarction, stroke or death compared with adherent patients," she went on."However, the protective effect of aspirin appeared to decrease slightly over time from four years after myocardial infarction and onwards." For people who have previously had a heart attack, taking a daily aspirin could reduce their risk of a repeat cardiac event or stroke, according to a recent Danish study. (iStock)The researchers also found that among women or individuals older than 65, failure to take aspirin was not associated with adverse outcomes.HEART ATTACK DEATH RISK CAN DOUBLE DURING HEAT WAVES AND HIGH POLLUTION, STUDY FINDS: ‘A PERFECT STORM’"We recommend that all patients who have had a heart attack stay adherent to their aspirin in accordance with guidelines until randomized controlled trials have proven otherwise and clinical guidelines have been changed," said Kristensen.Aspirin is generally recommended for use after a heart attack because it prevents the formation of blood clots. It does pose a risk of bleeding, however. "Our findings support current clinical guidelines on aspirin therapy following myocardial infarction (heart attack)," said study author Dr. Anna Meta Kristensen. (iStock)Researchers analyzed data from 40,114 patients who were 40 years of age and older, who had their first heart attack between 2004 and 2017, who had a stent placed — and who then took aspirin for the following year.ASK A DOC: 'HOW CAN I PREVENT HIGH CHOLESTEROL?'Patients who were taking anticoagulants or P2Y12 inhibitors, both of which prevent blood clotting — as well as those who had another heart attack or stroke during that first year — were excluded from the study.Every two years after the initial heart attack, the researchers determined which patients were still taking daily aspirin and then compared the rate of recurrent heart attacks. Aspirin is generally recommended for use after a heart attack because it prevents the formation of blood clots. It does pose a risk of bleeding, however. (Daniel Acker/Bloomberg via Getty Images)Those who did not continue taking the aspirin had a 29% higher risk of a recurrent heart attack, stroke or death at two years.The risk increased to 40% at four years, to 31% at six years and 20% after eight years, the study found.Study had some limitations"Our results should be interpreted with caution because they show an association but do not establish causality," Kristensen told Fox News Digital.Also, those who didn’t adhere to daily aspirin-taking might have already been predisposed to have poor health outcomes — which she called the "healthy adherer effect.""For decades, cardiologists have recommended daily low-dose aspirin — which is usually 81 mg in the U.S." "Yet we have made efforts to counteract this possible bias," she noted. "Our participant selection was limited to individuals who sustained adherence throughout the initial year following their heart attack."Because the researchers drew the data from a national registry, they were not able to determine the specific reasons that some patients did not take their aspirin, Kristensen added. Those who did not continue taking the aspirin had a 29% higher risk of a recurrent heart attack, stroke or death at two years. The risk increased to 40% at four years, to 31% at six years and 20% after eight years. (iStock)"Furthermore, our findings cannot be generalized to all patients who experience a heart attack," she went on, "as our study specifically focused on those who received treatment with a coronary stent and were not taking other medications to prevent blood clot formation."DAILY USE OF LOW-DOSE ASPIRIN MAY INCREASE ANEMIA RISK IN HEALTHY OLDER ADULTS: STUDY"With that in mind, the results support current guidelines recommending long-term aspirin after a heart attack."Cardiologist Dr. Ernst von Schwarz, who practices in Culver City, California, was not involved in the study but offered his input on the findings. Aspirin is recommended for "secondary prevention" but not "primary prevention," a cardiologist noted. (AP Photo/Emma H. Tobin)"For decades, cardiologists have recommended daily low-dose aspirin — which is usually 81 mg in the U.S.," he told Fox News Digital. "This has resulted in a reduction of subsequent heart attacks or any cardiovascular events."What did change in the revised guidelines a few years ago was that aspirin is no longer recommended as "primary prevention." The American Heart Association recommends low-dose daily aspirin for people who have underlying vascular diseases, such as coronary artery disease or peripheral artery disease, or who have had a stroke or heart attack.CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER"This guidance is called ‘secondary prevention,’ and it has never changed," von Schwarz said. "If someone had a heart attack or a stent placed in the past, this patient should stay on daily low-dose aspirin lifelong."What did change in the revised guidelines a few years ago was that aspirin is no longer recommended as "primary prevention," he said. The American Heart Association recommends low-dose daily aspirin for people who have underlying vascular diseases, such as coronary artery disease or peripheral artery disease, or who have had a stroke or heart attack. (iStock)"This means we no longer give aspirin to individuals just because they have risk factors for cardiovascular diseases — such as a combination of diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol," the doctor noted. The guidelines changed due to the risk of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract as a result of aspirin use, von Schwarz pointed out.CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP"This risk can be reduced by taking aspirin with food but not on an empty stomach, preferably at dinner time, which is supposed to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes that oftentimes occur in the early morning hours," he said. Melissa Rudy is health editor and a member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital.  [ad_2]

WORLD CHRISTMAS CIRCUS - TEATRO CARRE': news e date

WORLD CHRISTMAS CIRCUS - TEATRO CARRE': news e date La 37a edizione del World Christmas Circus andrà in scena dal 20 dicembre 2023 al 07 gennaio 2024. Anche quest'anno il Teatro Carrè di Amsterdam ospiterà una edizione al vertice del panorama circense mondiale. Il programma annunciato dalla Stardust Circus International del direttore Henk van der Meijden riserva qualche bella sorpresa e ..... parla anche un po' italiano.

Qui di seguito la nota ufficiale di presentazione del Wereldkerstcircus 2023/24 Da anni il World Christmas Circus è la meta delle famiglie durante le vacanze di Natale e, con 66.000 visitatori all'anno, è anche il Circo di Natale più visitato e di maggior successo dei Paesi Bassi. Anche con questa edizione potrai goderti anteprime mondiali, record mondiali, sensazioni mondiali e di classe mondiale! Il Circo Mondiale di Natale al Teatro Reale Carré è più di un circo! È il più grande festival circense dei Paesi Bassi, con la maggior parte dei vincitori e degli artisti pluripremiati provenienti dai più grandi festival circensi del mondo riuniti in un unico spettacolo, rendendolo davvero un Festival d'Oro. Il clown stellato Bello Nock, definito il miglior clown d'America dalla rivista Time, è presente nell'arena anche in questa edizione. Bello ha vinto il Clown d'Oro al Festival International du Cirque de Monte-Carlo, l'Oscar del circo mondiale ed è stato premiato con l'Oro anche in altri festival. Oltre al clown d'azione Bello Nock, un artista temerario e diabolico che non evita il pericolo con le sue acrobazie comiche, fa la sua comparsa anche il poetico clown Yann Rossi. Con i suoi incantevoli costumi e i 20 strumenti che suona, fa rivivere la tradizione del clown musicale. Godetevi questi due grandi clown, che insieme alla performance e alla poesia vi stupiranno, ma vi faranno anche sognare. Inoltre, il World Christmas Circus presenta numerosi numeri eccezionali provenienti da tutto il mondo: tra cui un grande trapezio volante e un numero equestre pluripremiato con il sussurratore di cavalli Alex Giona che sembra dare vita a un sogno. Proclamiamo con orgoglio: “In nessun luogo il Circo è più bello che a Carré!” Per raggiungere il gruppo l'Impresario Circense su Facebook cliccate sull'immagine sottostante

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The construction industry has long relied on traditional marketing strategies such as print advertising and word of mouth. However, with the rise of digital technology, it's become increasingly important for construction companies to embrace digital marketing strategies to reach their target audience and increase brand awareness. Here are five must-have digital marketing strategies for the construction industry: 1. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Construction companies must invest time and effort into improving their website's SEO to ensure that it ranks high on search engine results pages. This includes targeting keywords relevant to the construction industry, optimizing title tags and meta descriptions, and creating high-quality content that resonates with potential clients. 2. Content Marketing The construction industry is all about building, and content marketing is all about building relationships with potential customers through informative and engaging content. By creating valuable content such as blog posts, videos, and infographics, construction companies can establish themselves as experts in their field and gain trust from potential clients. 3. Social Media Marketing Social media platforms such as LinkedIn and Twitter are great tools for construction companies looking to connect with potential clients directly. Companies can leverage these platforms to share industry news, showcase their projects, and engage with their audience in real-time. 4. Email Marketing Email marketing is a cost-effective way to reach out to potential clients and keep existing clients engaged. By tailoring email campaigns to specific target audiences, construction companies can deliver personalized content that resonates with their audience and encourages them to take action. 5. Video Marketing Video content is becoming increasingly popular and is a great way for construction companies to showcase their projects and services. Video marketing can be leveraged through social media platforms, website landing pages, and email campaigns to engage potential clients and increase brand awareness. By implementing these five must-have digital marketing strategies, construction companies can increase their online visibility, reach their target audience, and ultimately, increase revenue and brand awareness. Don't let traditional marketing methods hold you back – embrace digital marketing and take your construction business to the next level. Title: How to Build a Sustainable Construction Business Introduction: In today's world, sustainability has become a buzzword as more and more businesses are realizing the importance of incorporating environmentally friendly practices into their operations. However, when it comes to the construction industry, the need for sustainability goes beyond just reducing carbon footprint. In this article, we explore how construction companies can build a sustainable business that not only benefits the environment but also contributes to the growth of the business. Case Study #1: The Edge The Edge, a building in Amsterdam, is an example of how sustainable construction can be profitable. The building, which was completed in 2014, has an energy consumption of only 30 kWhr/m2 per year. This is almost 50% less than the average office building, making it one of the most sustainable buildings in the world. In addition, the building has improved the productivity of its occupants due to features such as optimally controlled lighting and temperature. Practical Example #1: Using Sustainable Materials One of the primary ways of building a sustainable construction business is through the use of sustainable materials. This includes sourcing and using materials that have a minimal impact on the environment, such as recycled wood or bamboo. For instance, bamboo is a fast-growing, renewable material that can be used for flooring, cladding, and even scaffolding. It is sturdy, durable, and recyclable. Actionable Advice #1: Conduct a Material Audit

Before starting a project, it is important to conduct a material audit to determine which materials can be sourced sustainably. This not only helps you reduce the environmental impact of your construction but also saves costs. In addition, it is important to look for suppliers who can provide sustainable materials. This can be done by checking their certification and accreditations. Case Study #2: The Bullet Center The Bullet Center, a commercial building in Seattle, is a certified Living Building, which means it meets stringent requirements for sustainability and net-zero energy use. The building is a testament to the fact that sustainability can be achieved without compromising on design quality or user comfort. Practical Example #2: Design for Sustainability Apart from using sustainable materials, designing for sustainability is also critical for building a sustainable construction business. This includes features such as natural ventilation, well-insulated walls, and renewable energy sources such as solar panels or wind turbines. Actionable Advice #2: Hire Sustainable Designers When hiring architects or designers, look for firms that specialize in sustainable design. They can help you incorporate sustainable elements into your project right from the design stage, ensuring that your buildings are energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and aesthetically pleasing. Conclusion: Building a sustainable construction business is not just about doing the right thing for the environment. It is also about ensuring profitability, attracting environmentally conscious customers, and contributing to the growth of the business. By using sustainable materials, designing for sustainability, and hiring sustainable designers, construction companies can create a more sustainable and profitable future.

Thursday, I went to see Leya and stayed for Slumberland, who collaborated with Sainkho Namtchylak (a voice artist). Both performances were excellent.

Leya’s music worked well in the small venue and between tracks they talked a little. When Adam mentioned the harp was new, someone in the crowd noticed the price tag and we all had a laugh. The atmosphere was good.

After the show, I got to talk to both Marilu and Afam for a bit. Oddly enough they both thought I looked familiar, which I reasoned were the dead eyes of seeing too many bad shows (former music journalist ‘problem’). Combined random banter with actual information as one does.

Also talked to the promoter for a moment to ask how he got Leya, to which he explained he knew Claire Rousay and so got the label on board... it's a small world.

Slumberland is the project of Jochem Baelus, who makes his own sonic contraptions. He had taken a few on stages with them and they were great. Meanwhile Namtchylak deployed a sound range with a clarity not many could mimic. I had thought of leaving early, but I’m glad I stayed to witness this.

Friday, I went to see Avalon Emerson & the Charm. I’m not sure what I expected, maybe more hardware? Anyway the stage was pretty empty, Avalon on vocals and the Charm both wielding guitars or 1 on electric cello. With in the back, 4 distorted mirrors. In-between songs

Overall, it was a fine performance, but I think I could have missed it? Anyway, it got me into Amsterdam again and I walked around for a bit to think about some writing ideas. (Clearly, not every performance will be the best thing ever, this was a passing grade.)

One thing all these artists had in common? No encore, that was good. The ‘always encore’-meta got old pretty fast.

Milano, in arrivo l’evento “Milano circolare” dedicato alla città che riduce, recupera e ricicla

Milano, in arrivo l’evento “Milano circolare” dedicato alla città che riduce, recupera e ricicla.   Una “due giorni” dedicata alle esperienze di circolarità di moda e design presenti in città: è “Milano circolare – La città che riduce, recupera, ricicla”, evento organizzato dal Comune a Base Milano venerdì 10 e sabato 11 febbraio. Obiettivo dell’iniziativa è dare spazio, visibilità e occasioni di networking a tutte le organizzazioni che a Milano operano nei settori moda e design secondo i tre principi cardine del riduci, recupera, ricicla. Protagonista tra oltre quaranta talk, presentazioni e testimonianze ma anche laboratori ed esposizioni, non solo la realtà milanese ma anche quella internazionale con la partecipazione di Ellen McArthur Foundation – la più importante e autorevole organizzazione al mondo impegnata nella promozione dell’economia circolare – e con ospiti esteri provenienti sia da istituzioni sia da realtà private, che racconteranno quali buone pratiche circolari portano avanti città europee come Londra, Amsterdam, Glasgow e Ginevra con le esperienze di ReLondon, Gemeente, Maco, della rete Resourceful Cities e del United Repair Centre di Amsterdam. "Le città sono fiorenti, vivaci e innovative. Per renderle ancora più resilienti e attrattive, devono abbracciare e accompagnare il passaggio verso l'economia circolare e questo significa che le amministrazioni dovranno collaborare e impegnarsi con tutti, dai cittadini alle imprese alle ONG. Questo evento sottolinea l'impegno di Milano per una strategia circolare ambiziosa e all'avanguardia a livello mondiale. La Fondazione Ellen MacArthur è pronta ad aiutare questa splendida città a raggiungere i suoi obiettivi" ha detto Joshua Newton, ricercatore della Fondazione. Alla chiamata del Comune hanno risposto più di 80 realtà tra startup, associazioni di quartiere, grandi marchi e piccole imprese, università, scuole e accademie: uno scambio e una rete che sono fondamentali, insieme al coinvolgimento dei cittadini e delle cittadine per una loro maggiore consapevolezza utile a trasformare i modelli produttivi in ottica circolare. Tra loro, solo per citarne alcune: Spazio Meta, startup che si occupa di economia circolare negli allestimenti per l’arte, la moda e il design e punta a contrastare la sovrapproduzione di rifiuti grazie al recupero e reinserimento di materiali altrimenti considerati di scarto; Ecoskate, associazione sportiva del Corvetto che realizza tavole da skate con tappi di plastica riciclati; Unwanted furniture, progetto nato dalla collaborazione tra AMSA e il laboratorio di innovazione Opendot per identificare, sperimentare e documentare le strategie di riparazione possibili per i mobili ed evitare che vengano buttati; Carlsberg Italia, che ha trasformato oltre 2.500 kg di fusti in Pet in arredo urbano; Fashion Technology Accelerator, hub internazionale per l’innovazione nella moda che aiuta le startup ad accelerare il proprio business. E ancora istituti come la Naba, la più grande accademia d’arte privata in Italia, o l’Istituto Superiore Caterina da Siena che nei due giorni dell’evento presenteranno il loro modo di ridare vita a scarti e materie prime non utilizzate. “Milano Circolare” è un evento gratuito e aperto a tutte e a tutti: un’occasione per scoprire come il mondo del design e della moda di Milano affronta le sfide di sostenibilità ed economia circolare con prodotti, prototipi e nuove tecnologie e un’opportunità per guardare anche alle esperienze che si sono sviluppate nel mondo grazie agli speaker internazionali. È il primo passo di un percorso di coinvolgimento e ascolto utile a comporre il Piano d'azione sull'Economia Circolare della città che aiuti soggetti sia pubblici sia privati a trasformare scarti e rifiuti urbani in risorsa, con lo scopo di ridurre il consumo di materie prime e creare nuove opportunità di lavoro e d’impresa.  ... #notizie #news #breakingnews #cronaca #politica #eventi #sport #moda Read the full article

Microsoft to forge AI partnerships with South Korean tech leaders

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/microsoft-to-forge-ai-partnerships-with-south-korean-tech-leaders/

Microsoft to forge AI partnerships with South Korean tech leaders

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Microsoft is set to host top executives from South Korea’s leading technology firms next month to strengthen its AI partnerships.

The high-level meeting, dubbed the MS CEO Summit 2024, will be held on 14 May 2024 and feature Microsoft’s founder Bill Gates and Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella. They will engage in closed-door discussions with Kyung Kye-hyun of Samsung, Kwak Noh-jung of SK Hynix, Cho Joo-wan of LG Electronics, and Ryu Young-sang of SK Telecom.

Sources for The Korea Economic Daily suggest that Microsoft plans to explore joint ventures in AI technology across various sectors. Discussions with Samsung and SK Hynix will likely centre on the joint development and supply of AI chips.

Samsung and SK Hynix are recognised as being among the world’s leading memory chipmakers and can enhance Microsoft’s server capabilities with next-generation technologies such as High-Bandwidth Memory (HBM) AI chips and solid-state drives (SSDs).

Collaboration topics with LG Electronics will include integrating AI technologies into home appliances, a move that will boost Microsoft’s competitive edge against rivals like Google and Meta. With SK Telecom, Microsoft is expected to delve further into cloud and 5G services.

These meetings are timely, as the global tech landscape sees an increased focus on AI development. By potentially integrating Microsoft’s AI services into products like Samsung’s smartphones and LG’s home appliances, Microsoft could significantly elevate its market standing.

Kyung of Samsung’s Device Solutions indicated last month that their new AI accelerators, Mach-1 and Mach-2, will soon move into mass production. These accelerators are designed to optimise the synergy between GPUs and HBM chips, promising a revolution in processing speeds. Earlier this month, the company unveiled the industry’s first LPDDR5X DRAM which aims to boost on-device AI.

SK Telecom, under CEO Ryu, spearheads the Global Telco AI Alliance (GTAA). This consortium, including major global players like Deutsche Telekom and SingTel, aims to develop AI infrastructure and generative AI services across a customer base exceeding 1.3 billion globally.

Last year, SK Telecom invested $100 million in AI startup Anthropic to develop a large language model (LLM) specifically for telcos. The collaborative endeavour extends to the Telco AI Platform, an ongoing project initiated by the GTAA.

The MS CEO Summit 2024 presents an opportunity for enhanced AI cooperation and technological advancement, securing Microsoft’s position as a pivotal player in the industry.

(Photo by Natalie Pedigo)

See also: Meta raises the bar with open source Llama 3 LLM

Want to learn more about AI and big data from industry leaders? Check out AI & Big Data Expo taking place in Amsterdam, California, and London. The comprehensive event is co-located with other leading events including BlockX, Digital Transformation Week, and Cyber Security & Cloud Expo.

Explore other upcoming enterprise technology events and webinars powered by TechForge here.

Tags: 5g, ai, artificial intelligence, ceo summit, cloud, lg, microsoft, ms ceo summit, Samsung, sk hynix, sk telecom, south korea, telecoms

MAG028, Skintight

Case #0161704, Melanie King Release date: July 6, 2016 First listen: Somewhere between the 20th October and the 5th November. On the way into work I think, I have vague memories of walking out of the cul de sac as Melanie was talking about cigarette smoke.

As someone who greatly enjoys the antics of The Ghoul Boys and BuzzFeed Unsolved and Watcher’s Ghost Files, I would subscribe to Ghost Watch UK in a heart beat. As an aside, starfleetrambo has an au within an au with Jon and Martin in the roles of Ryan and Shane in Ghost Files that sustains me.

- Once again, in the style of Grizzop drik acht Amsterdam around the 41minute mark of RQG 92 – Bringing Down The House LYDIA!… wait… ah, the introduction of Ms Melanie King, taker of no shit, giver of no quarter. I love her. I love this rabid terrier of a woman.

- The TMA to RQG pipeline is real fam.

- ‘People like a show. People like our show.’ Do I watch Ghost Files because I what proof of the exisitance of ghosts? No. Do I watch it to see two idiots, one having a great time and the other skirting the edges of self inflicted heart failure. Yes, absolutely. Melanie knows it’s a show, that it’s showbiz, at least at this stage of her understanding. And showbiz is a vicious battle for attention and survival. You’ve got to get the audience to like you as much as what you are presenting. She can be forgiven for P.T. Barnum-ing it up a little.

- ‘We are not ‘paranormal investigators’. We are researchers. Scholars.’ Hear as Jon clutches his Oxford degree to his chest like it’s his maiden virtue. I don’t think there’s that much between what Melanie and Jon do, just that it either the research is implemented or catalogued. Probably why they rub each other up the wrong way so much; they are some very similar in a lot of ways, one key one being the all encompassing need to appear in control and competent at all times.

- ‘…when you can just tell a story to the Magnus Institute!’ Stories. Stories man. We’ve being doing it since communication was a thing. I may be neck deep in The Sandman meta at the moment but in Rusty Quill Gaming, Alexander spoke of the team and said ‘No, we're not commoners, we're wildly unoptimized bards’ and I have taken that to heart my friends. Stories,. Songs. Let me drown in them. OK, gushing aside, it does come down to the stories for the Institute and The Eye. Jon finds himself tracking down stories from people on the street in series 4, just to make it thought the day. They’re not statements any more, not accounts of events for inspection and dissection. They’re stories, priceless as they are.

- ‘None of your ‘respectable’, paranormal investigators would believe you?’ That’s got to be hard though, when you know your own tribe won’t get it, won’t support you.

- Cambridge Military Hospital. Right, had no idea where this was going to be, I did not anticipate it being in Cambridge despite the name, and I was right there. It’s part of Aldershot Garrison town in Hampshire, population 10,500, which blows my mind a little. I mean, I knew garrisons are a thing, but it’s basically a company town… run by the army. Anyway, it’s a heck of a lot further outside of London than I anticipated. And I have a new level of respect that Ghost Hunt UK managed to talk they way into a MOD strong hold.

- January 2015, she’s been sitting on this for over a year at this point.

- According to the wiki, the hospital was closed on 2 February 1996 due to the high cost of running the old building as well as the discovery of asbestos in the walls. stares of into the middle distance with the knowledge of just how close I come to being in contact with the devil’s insulating candy floss on the regs. In 2014 permission was granted for the hospital to be converted to provide housing. The hospital building was given a Grade 2 listing and redeveloped at a cost of £60 million for residential use by Weston Homes in May 2019, 3 years after this statement was given. The main building finished in 1879 has been converted to include 74 apartments with large communal foyers and spaces in addition to a large penthouse incorporating the building's clock tower… And a part of my soul just died.

- ‘Illegal?’ ‘Unorthodox! And hey, the worst that we’ve ever got before was a fine.’ Ok, so you lose points you had gained when I thought you’d managed administrative and logistical wizardry, and Melanie, this is a site on an operational garrison town, the worst you could have gotten this time around could have been a lot more than a fine.

- I’m just saying, you need a Tim on your team. You need someone who can flirt you through the door.

- I wonder how hard Jon had to bite his tongue to keep from saying anything when Melanie mentions Georgie Barker. Ah Georgie, another TMA lady who I love dearly. I can only imagine Melanie isn’t looking at Jon in that moment because I imagine the face was doing something.

- Sarah Baldwin, pretty sure that’s a MAG001 Anglerfish name. Yup, disappeared from around Old Fishmarket Close in August 2006. So it’s been a little over 9 years she’s been part of The Stranger. Got into sound engineering, interesting, but The Stranger did always seem to come for the artistic types. I wonder how Georgie came across her, and if her ‘anti-fear’ vibes fucked with Sarah in anyway? Or was the ‘bit unsocial’ Sarah keeping out of range of Georgie’s magnetic field?

- ‘…but when we pulled up the building seemed dark. I don’t think it was abandoned or anything like that, but it certainly didn’t seem like anyone was home.’ Do all of The Anglerfish’s victims just live together now in one abandoned flat complex? I’d watch that show.

- ‘…because if we don’t have a sound tech, we don’t have a show.’ I’m looking at you Alexander Jalexander Newall. I see you and I love you, but sweet mercy man, you need to take care of yourself. Don’t you try to sidle out Jonny, you’re in this discussion too.

- ‘I was just about ready to scream in frustration,’ Melanie was such an easy target for The Slaughter, with rage so close to the surface.

- The close cropped hair, the seemingly temperature inappropriate clothing. I don’t think Sarah’s experiencing some things like she once did. Like, maybe, endothermic metabolism. If you keep your hair cropped close, probably going to be harder for folks to realise it isn’t growing.

- Smoking maybe something Sarah had retained from before she was ‘fished’, The Anglerfish asked for cigarettes after all, or it may be to mask the lack of a natural scent or the mustiness of taxidermy. It’s probably just Melanie’s word choice, but the fact that Sarah’s ‘puffing away’ makes it sound like she’d having to work for it. Or is this just another case of ‘Spike smokes in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, despite not needing to breath’?

- I was wondering if the ‘sharp and faintly floral’ smell may have been the result of taxidermy related chemicals, but the key one I found, Borax, apparently doesn't have a scent?

- ‘It’s a pretty imposing building, the sharp-tipped clocktower above the main hall.’ I suddenly flash forward 170 odd episodes to the tower in London.

- Yeah, from Sarah’s reaction, I’m sticking with my theory that The Slaughter and The Stranger really don’t like each other, even if they share some behaviour patterns.

- Give me the emotional angle, give me The Grey Lady’s tale. I want to go watch BBC’s Ghosts now.

- ‘…the shade of red they had used kept making me think that they were blood splashes…’ Might not be the surveying teams, might be The Slaughter not cleaning up after itself.

- ‘Silk will not stitch the butcher’s meat’. Erm… Ok I have thoughts. First off, raw ass line, wow. Next, are we seeing a commentary on the plight of veterans after conflict, how sometimes token and guilded efforts of support won’t fix what’s happened, fine silk to gussy up butchered flesh? Or am I seeing The Flesh and The Web poking in?

- Yeah, Sarah probably doesn’t require sleep and more than likely had just been lying there. Waiting.

- Melanie makes some interesting choices when she goes looking for Sarah; not waking the others, even just to have someone watching the equipment, not taking a torch instead using one of the cameras. Gives a little bit of an insight into her priorities that one, the work comes first.

- The unaccountable presence of the place, The Slaughter in the very bones of the building.

- ‘It smelled of copper, with another scent beneath it, acrid and sour, with the faintest hint of ammonia.’ Old blood and piss.

- Sarah speaking to whatever face of The Slaughter resided in the Cambridge Military Hospital in a ‘low, quick and desperate’ voice, ‘like pleading’. I wonder if Sarah went looking to make contact with The Slaughter, looking to treat and explain and apologise, rather than wait for whatever wrath the invasion might earn. She could have potentially have waited the night out, but the retribution may have come all the harder.

- ‘With her bag next to her,’ had she been planning on running?

- Whatever has happened to Sarah since becoming an agent of The Stranger, it appears to have left her human enough to leave ‘a smear of blood left on the wall’.

- ‘She shouted something into the room, this time in a language I didn’t understand’… Huh?

- Dear reader, when I heard the description of Sarah peeling her own arm, I had to stop and take a few fortifying breaths. I’ve kept horses for a lot of my life, and I had one idiot gelding de-glove his back leg. If you don’t know what de-gloving is, by the stars and all the little green planets, do not google image search it, just don’t. But yeah, my boy had a wound about the length of my forearm on him. That’s what I see when I hear Melanie talk about Sarah peeling her own skin.

- ‘…the recording is so distorted that you can’t really make anything out.’ The Entities once again fucking with digital media.

- I mean, Melanie’s quick to fly into a temper about the dreaming question, but Jon isn’t coming across great.

- With the reports of a nurse/grey lady figure and the stories of the apparitions being benign, how does that fact into the place being a strong hold of The Slaughter? Was it a tools that was to elicit conflicting feelings about comfort and care, making patients nervous of their carers at all hours?

- And just how did you go about contacting ‘Georgina Barker’ then Jon? Hey? How’d you do it? Did you have someone else call and made them promise not to mention your name?

- The name ‘Sarah Baldwin’ does set alarms ringing in Jon’s head, so it’s good to know he’s retailing information, even if he can’t do the old mind google yet.

- ‘The other figure is much taller, and appears to be pointing, though no features can be made out, it does not appear to be touching the ground.’ Jonny? Is there any significance to this description? Or is it merely to give us the heebiest of jeebies?

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