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pocketnewsforyou · 2 months ago

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Monday 3/10/2025:

Facing a potential recession Wall Street has begun an official selloff process, “a sale of assets, typically at a low price, carried out in order to dispose of them rather than as normal trade.” Many stocks are falling, which has caused 401ks and investments to lose profit, resulting in many Americans losing money. The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta estimates that there will be a -2.8 contraction, “a sustained decrease in economic activity” rate for the national GDP. “Gross domestic product (GDP) is the most common measure for the size of an economy, and it measures the value of total final output of goods and services produced by that economy in a certain period of time.” Donald Trump, who during his campaign promised to boost the economy, is now no longer confident that the US can avoid an economic recession.

https://www.barrons.com/livecoverage/stock-market-today-030325/card/atlanta-fed-s-gdpnow-estimate-falls-again-kv9ZZAC5h68mreyNgjBk

https://study.com/academy/lesson/economic-contraction-overview-business-cycle.html#:~:text=The%20definition%20of%20contraction%20in,the%20economy%20as%20a%20whole.

https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php?title=Beginners:GDP_-_What_is_gross_domestic_product_(GDP)?#:~:text=Gross%20domestic%20product%20(GDP)%20is,a%20certain%20period%20of%20time.

Tesla stocks are plummeting due to international boycotts. This has stemmed from Elon Musk’s support of far-right wing political parties around the world. Musk spent $270 million in support of Donald Trump’s presidential campaign in 2024. Musk has also shown open support for the Alternative for Germany (AfD), a far-right political party known for its anti-immigrationm policies, support for Russia against Ukraine, and its leaders who say anti-semitic, anti-muslim, and anti-democratic statements.

https://apnews.com/article/elon-musk-doge-tesla-boycott-showrooms-stock-european-sales-e6459a0207f1318a1110e3d15e89956c

https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/02/20/musk-germany-election-afd-x-twitter/

https://www.adl.org/resources/backgrounder/alternative-germany-afd-party-what-you-need-know

Tuesday 3/11/2025

Trump declares that he will label violence against Tesla as domestic terrorism. "They're harming a great American company," Trump said at the White House. "Let me tell you, you do it to Tesla, and you do it to any company, we're going to catch you, and ... you're going to go through hell."

https://www.reuters.com/world/us/trump-says-he-will-buy-new-tesla-show-support-musk-2025-03-11/

The Department of Education is preparing to layoff 1,300+ employees following Trump’s plan to dismantle the agency. They are attempting to halve the staff of the Education Department. This has begun to raise questions on if the department will be able to continue its usual operations. This has also led the department to end leasing contracts in many cities. Officials claim “it would continue to deliver on its key functions such as the distribution of federal aid to schools, student loan management and oversight of Pell Grants.” “Today’s reduction in force reflects the Department of Education’s commitment to efficiency, accountability, and ensuring that resources are directed where they matter most: to students, parents, and teachers,” Education Secretary Linda McMahon said, “it was the department’s ‘final mission’ to eliminate bureaucratic bloat and turn over the agency’s authority to states.”

https://apnews.com/article/education-department-layoffs-job-cuts-linda-mcmahon-ce9f6a8a63972aede0d8fbdf057ab788

Wednesday 3/12/2025

Secretary of State Marco Rubio posted on X “Today was a good day for peace. Thanks to @POTUS’s leadership and under the gracious hospitality of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman [the prime minister of Saudi Arabia], we are one step closer to restoring durable peace for Ukraine. The ball is now in Russia’s court.” Zelenskiy met with Salam before Ukraine’s talks with the US “that Washington hopes will deliver substantial progress towards ending Russia's war with Ukraine.” Since Trump’s takeover, the US has reversed its policies on Ukraine. The US “has upended its policy on the conflict in its stated pursuit of a rapid end to the fighting, engaging directly with Moscow while stopping military assistance and intelligence sharing for Ukraine.” Saudi Arabia has been playing a neutral role in this conflict, negotiating prisoner exchanges and hosting peace talks between Russia and Ukraine. The peace talks also coincide with the signing of a minerals deal between Ukraine and the US. Secretary Rubio stated “there were still details to be worked out on the minerals deal.” He went on to state that “the talks could be a success without an accord being signed and stressed the need to gauge Kyiv's [the capital of Ukraine] readiness to make concessions to reach peace.”

https://www.reuters.com/world/zelenskiy-heads-saudi-arabia-ahead-crunch-us-talks-2025-03-10/

White House Instagram

Following threats made by republicans, the Black Lives Matter mural that was on the street of the president’s house in Washington D.C. is being torn down. Mayor Muriel Bowser had the mural painted after Black Lives Matter protestors were attacked with pepper spray and smoke canisters. This was done so that Trump could take photos at a church near Lafayette Park, during his first term. Republican lawmakers have demanded the removal of this mural or they would withhold “millions of dollars in transportation funding for the capital city.” This act is just a small view of Trump’s attempt to, in his words in the joint address to Congress, “end the tyranny of so-called diversity, equity and inclusion policies all across the entire federal government and, indeed, the private sector and our military.”

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2025/03/10/black-lives-matter-removal/82238374007/

Thursday 3/13/2015

Republican Chuck Edwards, from North Carolina, joins other Republican politicians who have been confronted while giving public speeches. Many of these constituents are disappointed in Republican politicians who support Trump and his administration’s policies. It has been shown that these constituents are not just democrats, but independents and moderate republicans. Many people were removed from the town hall. Moderate republican voters were against republican politicians holding town hall speeches in the first place.

https://www.c-span.org/program/public-affairs-event/rep-chuck-edwards-holds-town-hall-in-asheville/657227

Aaron Parnas Instagram

A child that was born in the US, whose parents are undocumented, was deported despite being in recovery for brain cancer. The 10 year old girl was receiving care in the US and is unable to receive the same treatment in Mexico. The family was on the way to the hospital, from Rio Grande City to Houston, when they were stopped by immigration and arrested. Previously, the parents used letters from doctors and lawyers to cross the border, but it was dismissed in this latest journey. The parents have no previous criminal history. When asked about the family, “U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which detained and deported the family, according to their lawyer, said in an email Wednesday: "For privacy reasons, we do not comment on individual cases.”” The girl underwent surgery to remove the tumor in her brain, but was still suffering swelling on the brain “causing difficulties with speech and mobility of the right side of her body.”

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/latino/us-citizen-child-recovering-brain-cancer-deported-mexico-undocumented-rcna196049

Friday 3/14/2025

The Delaware Senate has passed legislation, drafted by Richards, Layton & Finger, or RLF, a law firm that represents Elon Musk and Tesla. Governor Matt Meyer claims the legislation is ““course correction” that will bring the state’s business courts back into alignment with rulings from a decade ago.” However, many critics, including MA Senator Elizabeth Warren, say “the bill removes constraints on the power of founders or other key officials within companies to engage in deal-making that they say could hurt small investors.” Critics have also highlighted the link between the legislation and Musk, connecting his “twice nullified $56 billion pay package from Tesla” to potential “dismay with past Delaware court opinions” which led to his law firm drafting Senate Bill 21. The pay package was a “performance-based package [that] granted Musk stock options contingent upon achieving specific milestones related to Tesla's market capitalization and operational targets.” The judge for the resulting case ruled the“process was unfair to investors.” The bill proposes to define ““controlling shareholders” within a company as individuals who own at least half of a company’s shares or a third of shares plus a managerial role. It also lowers the amount of internal company scrutiny required to examine deals made by powerful shareholders with their companies.” This is important because controlling shareholders control a company’s management and make significant decisions.

https://www.investopedia.com/elon-musks-multi-billion-dollar-pay-package-8757243#:~:text=In%202018%2C%20Tesla's%20board%20and,market%20capitalization%20and%20operational%20targets.

https://spotlightdelaware.org/2025/03/13/sb-21-corporate-law-senate-vote/

https://www.theregister.com/2025/03/12/elon_musk_appeals_voided_pay_package/

Both the US House of Representatives and the Senate have passed a 6 month government spending bill, before the midnight deadline, to avoid a government shutdown. The current Senate has a Republican majority however they do not have enough members to “break a filibuster,” meaning to end the delaying of the vote. The bill “was approved largely along party lines, but an earlier procedural vote exposed deep divisions among Democrats.” THe votes resulted in a “54 to 46 vote, with one Republican opposing it and two Democrats supporting it after 10 Democrats provided the votes earlier Friday to advance the measure.” National Public Radio (NPR) says “the bill includes a small increase in defense spending and about $13 billion in cuts to non-defense programs. The bill is in line with GOP promises to cut domestic spending. Democrats characterized the bill as a "blank check" to President Donald Trump because the bill makes no attempt to rein in the administration's ongoing efforts to cut spending previously approved by Congress.” CBS news states that it “increases defense spending while decreasing non-defense spending below 2024 levels. Republicans have praised additional funding in the measure for programs like nutrition assistance for women, infants and children, while Democrats have railed against cuts to medical research and housing programs — and more than $1 billion in cuts to D.C.'s local government spending…Democrats widely oppose the House-passed measure and have expressed frustration with the spending reductions, and they warn that it would give the Trump administration and Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) even more latitude to carry out cost-slashing efforts.”

https://www.npr.org/2025/03/14/nx-s1-5328229/senate-spending-bill-vote-government-shutdown

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/government-shutdown-vote-senate-gop-measure/

Saturday 3/15/2025

Minnesota Senate Republicans have pushed for a bill claiming “Trump Derangement Syndrome” as a mental disorder. The bill defines this ‘disorder’ as “an “acute onset of paranoia” in response to Donald Trump’s policies, symptoms include verbal hostility, inability to distinguish policy differences, and others.” According to the new bill, in Minnesota, “mental illness means Trump Derangement Syndrome or an organic disorder of the brain or a clinically significant disorder of thought, mood, perception, orientation, memory, or behavior that is detailed in a diagnostic codes list published by the commissioner, and that seriously limits a person’s capacity to function in primary aspects of daily living such as personal relations, living arrangements, work, and recreation.” Lawmakers will debate on this bill in upcoming senate sessions.

https://www.livemint.com/news/us-news/minnesota-senate-republicans-bill-proposes-adding-trump-derangement-syndrome-to-mental-illness-definiti-11742049348473.html

A federal judge has blocked Trump’s use of the Alien Enemies Act Proclamation to deport immigrants from the US for 14 days. The Alien Enemies Act Proclamation was created in 1798 as part of the Alien and Sedition Acts, claiming “whenever there shall be a declared war between the United States and any foreign nation or government, or any invasion or predatory incursion shall be perpetrated, attempted, or threatened against the territory of the United States, by any foreign nation or government, and the President of the United States shall make public proclamation of the event, all natives, citizens, denizens, or subjects of the hostile nation or government, being males of the age of fourteen years and upwards, who shall be within the United States, and not actually naturalized, shall be liable to be apprehended, restrained, secured and removed, as alien enemies.” Trump tried to use the Proclamation to deport 5 Venezuelan immigrants. American Civil Liberties Union and Democracy Forward have already filed lawsuits, claiming the law “cannot be used here against nationals of a country – Venezuela – with whom the United States is not at war, which is not invading the United States and which has not launched a predatory incursion into the United States.”

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/15/trump-alien-enemies-act-deportations

https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/alien-and-sedition-acts#enemies

#politics #elon musk #donald trump #poltical #news #national news update

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evans23 · 5 months ago

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RICKMAS 2024 - DAY 12 - MISSING MIRTH

Pairing : Hans Gruber x Reader OC

Summary : She misses him. She has no more joy in her life. Except for him. Their little son. But maybe Christmas miracle exists after all.

Tag(s)/Warning(s) : Angst. Mention of death. Depression. Mention of suicide.

A/N : Enjoy dear reader 😁

This is Part II of FALLING

Also read on AO3 - Wattpad

A card had arrived in September. A card with nothing on it. A card from Germany. Your heart had skipped several beats. You only knew two people in Germany: Hans and his brother.

Hans had died following the attack on the Nakatomi Tower. This simple thought brought tears to your eyes that had never lost their veil of sadness since that cursed day. You had always had doubts about who Hans was and that night, when in the house you shared in the outskirts of London you recognized him on television, your suspicions were confirmed. At the time, you did not know the exact nature of what he did for a living. Hans and you had a tacit agreement: you did not ask questions. Never.

You had tried, of course, but each time you had done it was the only time you had seen him get angry with you and Hans' anger was impressive. You had quickly stopped questioning him, being angry with him was something you didn't like to experience even if later in the night, to make up for it, Hans offered you your best sex.

His death had taken a toll on you. You were still tired, your eyes were surrounded by black bags and your smile no longer reached your gaze. The spark of life that had captivated Hans two years before had gone out.

If you continued to hold on day after day, it was for your son, a surprise gift from Hans, his only inheritance. Of course, no one could know who the father was and your family was very angry with you for having made a baby all by yourself. So you received very little help from them. Fortunately, Hans had thought of everything and his house in London as well as his English and Italian bank account had been put in your name.

Indeed, when he died, a lawyer came to find you accompanied by Simon, Hans' big brother. The two men had explained to you that Hans had prepared everything in case one day he didn't have to come back so that you wouldn't be left with nothing. The man was cunning and intelligent. He had many bank accounts in different parts of the world as well as many properties, all under false identities.

In order to have the full acquisition of the money and the house, you had to sign papers that ensured your silence. As if you would have been shouted from the rooftops that you had been the mistress of one of the most infamous terrorists ?

It was only a month later that you had discovered that you were pregnant. It was a surprise as you had always used contraception, but when the doctor had asked you if you wanted to keep the child or not, you knew that you could never be separated from this little being that was growing inside you. It was a piece of you and Hans, of the love that you had shared. That was all you had left of him.

Your son had celebrated his first birthday in July. It had been a sunny day that you had spent in Kensington Park, where it all began. You had then eaten cake for dinner and drank chocolate milkshakes until your stomach hurt. It had been a good day. One of the few where you had not cried thinking about his father.

Hans haunted your thoughts day and night. You had never realized how alone you were until you had him in your life. Of course, you had not been alone for long as eight months later the fruit of your love came into the world.

Your pregnancy had not been easy, between the incessant nausea, the swollen legs and the lack of support from your loved ones. But to your greatest surprise, one fine morning, you had found Simon on your doorstep. He had heard the good news, though he had refused to tell you how he had done it.

He had stayed by your side until your nephew was born, and then, as his brother knew how to do, he had disappeared without leaving you any news. You didn't even know where to find him, but it didn't matter, he knew where to find you.

So when the card had arrived, you had assumed it was from Simon. Did he want to meet you in Germany ?

There was no way you were traveling with such a young child. If Simon wanted to talk to you, he would have to come himself. Besides, you had started working part-time at a small local bakery and you didn't feel like asking for time off yet. Not that you needed to work, not with what Hans had left you, but it allowed you to get out of the house and take your mind off things for a short while. Meanwhile, your son was in daycare and you knew it was for the best because he was socializing while you were learning not to cling to him like a lifeline. This child couldn't grow up with your traumas.

However, two more cards had arrived inSeptember, four in October and eight in November. Finally, on December 13th, a final card had arrived, a funny Christmas card with a three-dimensional reindeer and with only one word written on it: Magdeburg.

In view of Simon's insistence, you had decided on a whim to pack up your and your son's things and had driven to the station where you had taken the train to Cologne. The five hours of train travel had passed like nothing. Your son had slept the entire journey to your great relief while you had tried, in vain, to immerse yourself in a book. Indeed, your mind had not stopped drifting to Hans. Hans, your tender lover who had taught you to love and to be loved.

You also wondered what his brother could possibly have to say to you to insist so much. Why couldn't he come? Was he in trouble? You didn't want to be mixed up in the dangerous world to which he belonged. You didn't want your son to be in danger because of his father and uncle's inheritance.

In Cologne, you had rented a car and driven to Magdeburg, but once there, you didn't know what to do, who to look for, where to go. You didn't have to wait long. You were in front of the Kriegerdenkmal with your son who needed to stretch his legs when your phone rang. A German number.

"Hello ?" you said carefully.

"You took your time [Y/N]," Simon's voice rang out.

"What do you want ? I'm traveling with a baby," you answered curtly.

Simon just chuckled.

"You have a room reserved at a small inn in the city under the name of Sarah Fears. You'll spend the night there," he ordered you.

"I'm afraid the name on my passport isn't Sarah Fears," you scoffed.

"It's a code name. The receptionist is one of my men. He'll give you new papers. Tomorrow, he'll go and bring back the car you rented while another one will be waiting for you. The GPS will already be programmed, you'll just have to follow the directions."

You didn't have time to say anything before he had already hung up. A minute later, your phone rang, a message from Simon with an address, that of the hostel you assumed.

The hostel, which reeked of Christmas, was stuck between two old dilapidated houses. Nothing that inspired confidence. However, you obeyed Simon and as expected, a man gave you new identity papers for you and your child as well as money.

"I need the car keys and your phone," he ordered you bluntly.

You hesitated for a second, asking him what all this was about, but he refused to answer, stating that he was following Simon's orders and that he didn't have to answer your questions. Frustrated, you handed him your keys and phone, in exchange for which he gave you a new one.

"Don't turn it on until you get permission from the boss," he said before leading you to your room.

You didn't like it much, but there wasn't much you could do. The room was small and musty, yet you didn't have a better option. You were in a foreign country in the middle of nowhere. You didn't speak German and you didn't have a cell phone anymore. Well, you did, you had a brand new, state-of-the-art one, but you weren't allowed to turn it on. You didn't know why, but something told you that it was better to listen to what you were told. You were in dangerous waters. The price to pay for having loved Hans, you thought bitterly.

The night was long, your son refusing to sleep and crying until exhaustion. He was now asleep in the back while you struggled to keep your eyes open. The GPS had indicated Liepzig. You didn't even know this name before this morning, but that was where you were going now.

You stopped in front of an old abandoned building. It was your destination apparently. Before leaving, the receptionist of the hostel had given you an envelope and told you not to open it until you arrived. So you opened it, eager to know what was inside. Another Christmas card, with a snowman with a smile more scary than friendly was inside. On the back were instructions. You had to leave the keys in the ignition, take your son and all your belongings, put the phone in the glove compartment as well as your old passport.

Worried, you wondered if you and your child were in danger. Did anyone know that Hans had a child? Was that why Simon was taking so many precautions ? Adrenaline, mixed with fear, invaded your body and you felt bile rise to your mouth. You took a sip of water, then you followed the instructions to the letter. In the glove compartment, there was another card, this one illustrated with a Santa Claus. On the back, Simon ordered you to enter the building.

You entered cautiously, holding your son tightly in your arms. Anxious, you wondered what you would do if this was all a trap. You didn't know how to fight and you didn't even have a knife on you, although you probably wouldn't have known how to use it other than to cut your hand. However, you were certain of one thing: Simon would not put his nephew in danger.

You waited for about twenty minutes inside the old building. You heard someone drive away mixed with the sounds of the city. After twenty long and interminable minutes, Simon came in.

"Simon," you said in a breath, "why all the mystery ?"

He didn't answer, just walked briskly towards you to grab his nephew.

"There's the little prince," he said with a smile.

Your son watched him, intrigued. After all, he had only met him once, when he was born.

"Simon ?" you insisted.

"Hush ! You'll get the answers in due time. In the meantime, don't ask any questions."

His authoritative tone and his gaze that left no room for discussion reminded you of Hans. Hans that you saw every day in the hazel eyes of your son who had also inherited his hooked nose and his predatory smile.

"You're going to stay at my place until the 24th."

"What ? No !" you cried.

You told him that you couldn't stay that long, that you had your life in London and your job.

"A job ?" Simon mocked, "my brother made sure you would never have to work again in your entire life, that you had money to do what you wanted, your art school if you wanted and you have fun playing the baker ?!"

His mocking tone didn't please you, but he didn't give you time to answer him as he was already heading towards the exit, your son still in his arms. Understanding that you had no other choice, you followed him, carrying your bags at arm's length.

"Why until the 24th ?" you asked as you settled into the passenger seat.

"You ask a lot of questions. Hans was right about that," he replied playfully.

"And you never answer my questions. Like him," you retorted sharply, triggering a small laugh from the man.

Simon's villa was every bit as good as the one Hans had left you. It was a huge building, lit by huge windows and whose garden was adorned with a swimming pool and a jacuzzi. Everything exuded luxury from the walls to the ceiling to the furniture that decorated each room and that must have been worth more than a month's salary that you earned when you worked as a souvenir saleswoman.

Simon showed you the room that you would share with your son until the following week. And time passed slowly. Very slowly. Simon was rarely at home, but men stood guard all around the house that you were not allowed to leave under any circumstances, which only fuelled your anxiety. He refused to tell you if you were under threat and you had stopped insisting, tired of being confronted with a wall of silence. But finally, the 24th arrived.

"What a sad Christmas it's going to be," you said to no one but yourself as you watched your son play on Simon's out-of-control carpet, a carpet on which he had spilled your coffee a few hours before to your great satisfaction as you were so annoyed by him.

"Is that so ?" Simon's voice made you jump.

You shrugged without even turning to him.

"I think it's going to be the best Christmas of your lives for both of you," he said laughing.

You finally deigned to look at him. The man looked nothing like Hans physically. He had dark eyes, salt and pepper hair and a nose that was nothing distinctive. On the other hand, he had the same charisma and the same proud and confident posture as his brother.

"I have a gift for you," he added with a playful smile.

"Explanations, I hope," you replied sarcastically.

He chuckled at your cheekiness but he didn't say anything else. Instead, he asked you to take the cell phone that you still weren't allowed to turn on, the things that were particularly important to you, and leave everything else behind.

"Simon," you whispered as he prepared to leave the room, "I understand that you can't tell me anything but... are my parents in danger ? If men are after me, they could hurt my parents," you explained, genuinely worried.

His face softened when he assured you that you didn't have to worry about them and that if you wanted to contact them, there would surely be a way to find a solution later. For the moment, he thought you were on vacation in France with a friend and he received news from you regularly. Or at least he thought that it was you who sent them messages every day when it was actually Simon.

You didn't try to find out more, knowing that it was useless and that you were safer that way. Instead, you did as he asked, gathering the few things that had belonged to Hans and that you carried everywhere with you to remind you, even if you didn't need them. You did the same with your child's things, Simon having told you that you didn't have to worry if you forgot anything because everything you needed would be provided to you in due time.

You were going to leave at night, so you had time to do what you wanted during the day, which was nothing. There wasn't much to do at Simon's place except snooze in front of the TV or read books. Except that the vast majority of his library was in German, much to your dismay. You had thought that a cultured man like him would have a wider selection of books in English or French. Your son was easier to entertain, everything fascinated him in his uncle's big house which was the perfect playground for a child looking for mischief to do with his expensive vases and his Persian rugs most of which now had stains of vomit or other undetermined fluids.

It was only at 11pm that Simon came home to pick you up. You felt a mixture of emotions ranging from fear to annoyance to anger. Yet another day without knowing what was happening in your life. A life over which you had no control since that December 13th. Yet another night where your child was not going to have a proper night, yet another night where your stomach was going to turn and turn, making you sick with worry.

"Believe me, you're going to thank me after tonight," Simon said in a cold voice when you had expressed your displeasure to him.

You snorted, doubting that it was true, yet, once again, you obeyed him not without grumbling, but that was the only difficulty you posed for his greatest relief. Your irritation amused him more than anything else, you were at the end of your tether, so it was easy to get angry and he often teased you on purpose just to see you transform into a little fury, eyes flashing and words as sharp as a blade. It was in those moments, when you came out of your torpor, that he saw what Hans had seen in you and that he understood why his brother had fallen in love with you so easily. If you had not belonged to his brother, he could have fallen in love too.

You rolled for half an hour under the indistinct babbling of your son that Simon maintained by answering imaginary questions, to the great pleasure of his nephew who was listening. You stopped in Schkeuditz. A town you knew all too well. It was where Hans, or at least a tombstone with Hans' name on it, was laid to rest.

"Simon, why are we here ?" you asked when he stopped in front of the cemetery.

The man didn't answer. Instead, he handed you a card. Another stupid Christmas card with reindeer dancing around a sleigh. On the back, coordinates. You arched an eyebrow as he laughed at your expense.

"These are the coordinates of Hans' grave. Go there. Stay there until someone comes to get you, then you'll follow his instructions as well as you've followed mine so far. Are we okay ?"

"No! No! Explain! I'm scared, I don't know what you're getting me into, but I'm not alone, there's a child here with me! Are we in danger? Simon, I need to know..."

"Hush !" he cut you off, "if I didn't trust the person who's coming to meet you, I wouldn't let you and my nephew get out of this car. I know what I'm doing. Don't be afraid, trust me," he said firmly.

You still weren't convinced and tears welled up in your eyes.

"Come on, come on, don't cry. Trust me. All these days spent here in Germany are part of the plan. But I'm not the one who's going to explain all that to you. I don't have time. Now, be a good girl, get out of this car, take your son and go to Hans' grave."

You nodded, swallowing back your tears, and complied. Before leaving the car, Simon had allowed you to finally turn on the cell phone. He told you that you couldn't turn it on before in case you tried to get in touch with your family.

"Why let me do it now ? I could call them right now," you told him defiantly.

"No, you won't. I trust you. You'll wait until you receive further instructions before using it," he told you seriously.

You were now using it to light your way through the tombstones. You finally reached Hans's, one of the only ones that wasn't decorated with flowers. You tried your best not to cry as your son looked around intrigued.

You didn'tYou didn't have to wait long to see a large figure walking towards you. You shone your phone at the stranger, but immediately dropped it. If you hadn't had your son in your arms, you probably would have collapsed to the ground.

The newcomer picked up the phone, a cheeky smile gracing his distinguished face.

"Hallo, mein leibe."

You shivered, and, unable to hold it in any longer, you let out a loud sob.

"Hans !" you managed to say.

"It's me, mein leibe."

"But... What ? The tower ?! I saw you on TV... And Simon... I..." you struggled, unable to string two words together or form a proper sentence, almost crying.

"I'll explain everything to you, but not here, mein leibe, follow me."

You followed him without hesitation, your head swarming with questions. Your son had finally fallen asleep, his head resting on your shoulder and was completely oblivious to what was happening at the moment.

Hans made you get into a spacious Audi. You settled into the front seat, your son still asleep in your arms.

"Hans, it's really you," you whispered as you watched him carefully.

It was him. Despite the scar that crossed his left cheek, he was still the same man with the same black hair and hooked nose that he shared with his son.

"How is that possible ?" you asked as he started the car.

"It's a long story. I know what they said in the press, that I had fallen from the top of the tower, foiled by this McClan, it was a good story, a story that held water. It allowed me to disappear more easily."

"Disappear more easily ? Disappear ?" you repeated, raising your voice.

"Mein leibe, when you steal 600 million dollars it's better to be dead..."

"And me !" you cut him off harshly, "you thought of me ?! Two years Hans ! You left me two years without any news ! I was heartbroken, I wanted to die ! I would have died if it hadn't been for our..." you interrupted yourself, your throat tight with grief.

"Mein leibe, there wasn't a day that went by that I didn't think of you. And I had men to watch over you."

"What ?" you said, stunned.

"You didn't really think that I was going to leave my most precious possession unattended ? Everything was set up with Simon to ensure your safety well before the events at Nakatomi Tower."

You couldn't believe it, shaken by what he had just told you.

"Was your fake fall from the tower part of the plan ?"

Hans remained silent and suddenly hysterical, you started hitting his shoulder with your small, not very thick fist.

"I hate you ! I hate you Hans ! You had no right to do such a thing to me. You say you love me but you're nothing but a liar. You broke my heart, your death, your fake death, almost killed me."

"Mein leibe, it would never be certain. Simon was watching over you in the shadows and he would never have allowed this to happen. But when we found out about your pregnancy, then we knew that you were going to cling to this child like a lifeline. I was relieved, it gave me time to put everything in place for the next stage of our lives."

You stopped pounding his shoulder with your fist to look at him with wide eyes.

"And who says I still want you in my life? "

"Mein leibe, you can lie to yourself but not to me. I can read you like the first day."

"Bastard !" You shouted.

"You can insult me as much as you want if it makes you feel better, but now that I've found you and my son, I'll never let you go again."

You said nothing, your mixed feelings preventing you from thinking rationally. Hans took advantage of your silence to explain to you what happened after Nakatomi Tower. How he had reached a doctor in the pay of people like him to treat him without asking questions. How he had managed to launder the money he had stolen and how, for two years, he had been forgotten by everyone so that he could arrange the future of both of you. Of all three of you.

"Why did you wait two years Hans ? Didn't you want to meet your son ?" you asked in your voice weakened by emotion.

"Of course I did, but I was afraid of putting you in danger. I waited, patiently, for the right moment."

"How did you know it was now ?"

"Simon," he simply said.

You drove all night until you reached France. There, you drove to a small house in the countryside, far from any human existence.

"Can I ?" Hans asked when you wanted to pick up your son and take him inside.

You nodded and watched with affection as he gently lifted his child, his eyes filled with an indefinable emotion. He carried him to the living room and set him down on the couch.

"He's beautiful," Hans murmured.

"He looks just like you."

"I hope he has your soft heart," he replied sincerely.

"And now Hans ?"

"The choice is up to you. Either you decide to stay with me, or you leave. But I won't let you take my son from me."

"What about me ? Do I matter to you or are you just here for him ?"

"[Y/N], mein leibe... I wanted to give you the illusion of having a choice."

You shook your head in disbelief. However, he didn't need to make you feel like you had the right to choose, because you would always choose him no matter what. You and your heart were completely his.

"Where are we going ?"

Hans pulled out a stuffed koala from the inside pocket of his jacket that he had planned to give to your child.

"Australia," he said cheerfully.

"Australia ?"

"You're always cold there, you'll always be warm," he said playfully.

"We're going to have to change identities ?"

"I've already planned it all out."

"I don't have my name to say about my next name ?" You teased, well only half-heartedly.

"You can choose whatever name you like, mein leibe, but your last name will be Marston."

"Marston ?" you repeated stupidly.

"My new identity is Elliott Marston and I thought you'd like to be Elliott's wife."

You froze, your mouth half-open.

"Are you proposing to me ?"

Hans laughed.

"I'm afraid you won't be able to have a conventional princess wedding."

"I never wanted a princess wedding," you said under your breath.

"So ?"

"So ?" You repeated.

"So, do you want to be Mrs. Marston ?"

You nodded frantically.

"Yes ! Hans, yes !"

You threw yourself into his arms and he caught you laughing, kissing the top of your head.

"Well, that's settled Mrs. Marston, we're leaving for Australia in two days to start our new lives."

A whimper caught your attention. A muffled "mommy" came from you and you rushed to your son before he started crying at not seeing you as he woke up in a place completely unfamiliar to him.

Hans watched you interact with the child in the doorway, unsure of what to do. You held out your hand to invite him closer, which he did cautiously so as not to scare the child.

"Hans, let me introduce you to Christopher, your son," you said with emotion.

You had dreamed of this moment for so long, a moment you thought you would never get to experience. Hans sat down next to you and you handed him the child who was watching him with a mixture of wariness and curiosity. Finally, he rested his head against Hans' chest, his thumb in his mouth and you smiled affectionately. It was the most beautiful thing you had ever seen. Hans, although stoic as usual, couldn't stop the pride and love from flooding his usually cold and calculating gaze.

"My son," he whispered as he kissed the top of his head, "I promise to give you the best that life has to offer. You and your mother will never want for anything, you both have my word."

You leaned down to gently kiss the man who had made you come alive the moment you met him, the one who could break you in an instant if he were to disappear.

"Hans, I'm so happy that you're here with us. With Christopher, I was someone again, but without you, I'm nothing."

"Mein leibe, we'll never be apart again, I promise."

He dug into his pocket to pull out a small square box that he handed to you.

"I'm sorry I'm not doing this by the book, but I have a precious package in my hands," he whispered, kissing the top of Christopher's head.

You opened the box to find the most beautiful emerald sitting on a gold band.

"Hans, it's beautiful."

"Not as beautiful as you, mein leibe."

He placed a soft kiss on your lips before setting Christopher down on the ground, who was starting to get agitated, annoyed by the lack of attention towards him. Hans held you close and you let yourself fall against his chest, sighing contentedly as you both watched with affection your son playing with his stuffed koala.

"Merry Christmas, mein leibe," Hans whispered in your ear.

"Merry Christmas Hans," you replied as you snuggled a little closer to him.

"The best of all," Hans whispered, "and I can't wait for the next one in the middle of a beach surrounded by the two loves of my life."

Finally, you thought happily, Christmas miracles really did exist and this year that had started with some missing mirth was finally heralding a bright future.

#alan rickman #hans gruber x oc #hans gruber x reader #hans gruber #die hard #evans23 #rickmas2024

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growwithmeastrology · 1 year ago

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Saturday, April 20th 2024 Sun in Taurus ♉️🌎 Moon in Virgo ♍️🌎 and Libra ♎️💨

We’re here. We made it to the transit everyone is talking about, the Jupiter and Uranus conjunction in Taurus. It’s the topic of the day so let’s get into how it’s going to affect each rising sign. For a more detailed look at your theme, check out your rising sign first and then sun and moon signs. This energy has been rolling in strongly over the last month and will be active for the next 6 months!

Aries - This is happening in your 2nd house of values and personal money. You can expect a boost in your sense of self worth and a boost of abundance in your bank accounts.

Taurus - Bringing big energies into your 1st house of self, get ready for a total makeover. It may seem like you’re becoming a completely different person right now. Take a leap of faith and watch your dreams take flight.

Gemini - This is hitting your 12th house of spirituality and subconscious. Prepare for mind blowing, out of this world dreams, intuitive insights and revelations that may have you questioning reality.

Cancer - Your 11th house of society and friendship is getting activated filling the next 6 months with new social encounters and exciting adventures. Make a wish, it may just come true!

Leo - You’ll be shining bright as this transit brings fortune into your 10th house of career. Get ready for either promotions, brand new opportunities or recognition in the job sector.

Virgo - Pack your bags and put your learning hat on as this is hitting your 9th house of travel and higher philosophies. Adventure and expansion are helping you break free from the ordinary.

Libra - Get ready for some sexy vibes as this energy hits your 8th house of intimacy and shared money. Explore new areas of passion and excitement along side a partner.

Scorpio - Your 7th house of relationships is getting a shake up. You’re evaluating whether a partnership is holding you back or expanding your horizons. Cut loose of anything holding you back from personal growth.

Sagittarius - Hitting your 6th house of health and daily routines, it’s important to listen to your body and make self-care a priority. You could also see a change in what your day to day looks like.

Capricorn - Get ready as your 5th house of passion, dating and creativity get a jolt of excitement. Some fun and romance are up for you so open yourself up to a little spontaneity.

Aquarius - hitting your 4th house of home and family, get ready for some ancestral healing and breaking free from old family wounds. Let go of any familial patterns holding you back. You could also find yourself in a new home environment all together.

Pisces - Lighting up your 3rd house of communication and short distance travel. Think outside the box, explore new ideas and places and connect with kindred spirits.

If you enjoy my daily forecasts please like, comment, share and consider a gratitude tip in support. 🅿️ PayPal, Venmo or CashApp - @NaliniFlor

Learn more about your personal energies and how the daily forecast affects you! Comment below⬇️ or DM me for a consultation.

#astrology #growwithme #zodiac #horoscope #daily horoscope #daily energies #taurus season #virgo moon #libra moon #jupiteruranusconjunction #mercury retrograde

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attorneythailand · 30 days ago

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Thailand Long-Term Residency

Thailand's long-term residency system presents a multifaceted array of options, each with distinct legal frameworks, bureaucratic processes, and strategic advantages. Unlike many Southeast Asian nations, Thailand maintains a carefully regulated immigration system that balances economic priorities with national security concerns. This exhaustive guide examines all viable pathways to long-term residency, analyzing their legal foundations, practical requirements, and often-overlooked nuances that can determine application success or failure.

2. Permanent Residency: The Gold Standard

2.1 Historical Context and Current Policy

Established under the Immigration Act B.E. 2522 (1979)

Annual quota system introduced in 2008 (100 per nationality)

Processing times now exceed 24 months due to security vetting

2.2 Eligibility Deep Dive

Category-Specific Requirements:

Employment: Must demonstrate 3+ years at executive level in BOI company or Thai corporation with minimum THB 1M capitalization

Investment: THB 10M in government bonds or THB 3M+ in qualifying businesses

Family: Spouses require 5+ years of continuous marriage (2 years if with children)

Financial Scrutiny:

Tax records undergo forensic examination by Revenue Department

Bank statements must show consistent balance above THB 500,000

All foreign income must be legally remitted through Thai banking system

2.3 The Hidden Challenges

Language Test: Now includes written component beyond basic conversation

Character Investigation: Includes interviews with neighbors and colleagues

Military Review: All male applicants aged 18-45 undergo additional clearance

3. Elite Visa Program: The Premium Pathway

3.1 Program Evolution

Launched in 2003 as Thailand Privilege Card

Five-tier system introduced in 2021 (from 5 to 20-year options)

8,000+ holders as of 2024, with Chinese nationals comprising 42%

3.2 Structural Analysis

Membership Tiers:

Elite Easy Access (5 years): THB 600,000

Elite Superiority Extension (20 years): THB 2,500,000

Elite Family Premium: THB 1,000,000 per additional member

Operational Realities:

90-day reporting exemptions frequently misunderstood

Work permit limitations for non-BOI companies

Tax implications of multi-year lump sum payments

4. LTR Visa: Thailand's Strategic Talent Acquisition Tool

4.1 Policy Architecture

Approved by Cabinet Resolution on September 14, 2021

Four distinct categories with tailored benefits:

Wealthy Global Citizens

Wealthy Pensioners

Work-from-Thailand Professionals

Highly-Skilled Professionals

4.2 Underutilized Provisions

Dual intent allowance for citizenship applications

Education subsidies for dependents

Customs exemptions for professional equipment

5. Retirement Visas: The Evolving Landscape

5.1 Financial Requirements Decoded

THB 800,000 deposit: Must be seasoned 3 months pre-application

Income method: Requires notarized foreign pension documents

Combination option: Complex calculation formula

5.2 Insurance Mandates

O-A Visa: Minimum $50,000 coverage

O-X Visa: $100,000 with Thai-approved providers

Exclusion clauses for pre-existing conditions

6. Investment-Based Options: Beyond the Basics

6.1 BOI Privileges

Fast-track PR eligibility (2 years vs standard 3)

Reduced capital requirements for strategic sectors

Special economic zone concessions

6.2 Property Investment Realities

Condominium ownership: No residency rights

Leasehold structures: Maximum 30+30 year terms

Usufruct agreements: Judicial enforcement challenges

7. The Citizenship Pathway

7.1 PR to Naturalization Timeline

Year 0-3: Qualifying period

Year 3-5: Application preparation

Year 5+: Naturalization process

7.2 Hidden Requirements

Thai language exam: Now includes reading/writing at grade 4 level

Civic knowledge test: 50 questions on Thai history and law

Name change procedures: Practical implications

8. Emerging Trends and Future Projections

8.1 Digital Nomad Visa (2025 Pilot)

Expected requirements:

$80,000 annual income

Thai health insurance

Minimum 3-year contract

8.2 Tax Law Revisions

Proposed wealth tax implications

Crypto asset reporting requirements

Inheritance tax considerations

8.3 Regional Competition Analysis

Compared to Malaysia MM2H, Vietnam's new visas

Thailand's competitive positioning

9. Strategic Application Planning

9.1 Document Preparation Framework

Primary Documents: 6-month validity rule

Translation Standards: Certified vs. notarized

Legalization Procedures: Hague Apostille exceptions

9.2 Professional Engagement Strategy

When to use:

Immigration lawyers

BOI consultants

Tax specialists

9.3 Contingency Planning

Appeal processes

Alternative category eligibility

Exit strategies

10. Conclusion: Navigating the Complexities

Thailand's long-term residency landscape requires sophisticated navigation through:

Bureaucratic nuance: Understanding unwritten rules

Financial planning: Multi-year commitment strategies

Legal compliance: Maintaining flawless records

Final Recommendation: Develop a 5-year residency strategy incorporating:

Visa laddering from short-term to permanent options

Tax optimization through timing of asset transfers

Family status planning for dependents

For ongoing updates, monitor:

Royal Gazette publications

Immigration Bureau policy circulars

BOI investment promotion updates

#thailand #immigration #immigrationinthailand #thailandvisa #thaivisa #visa #visainthailand #thailanglongtermresidency #longtermresidency #ltr #thailtr #thaiimmigration

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not-poignant · 1 year ago

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Merch Tier Revived!

As of this month, I've officially revived the Vexteria tier on Patreon and Ream as a Merch tier :D

This is the one you're looking for:

Memberships at Ream

Memberships at Patreon

I've been thinking about it for like a year and I've finally figured out a way to do it without breaking my brain (or the bank) and handling overseas postage.

While there are other bonuses in this tier, I've finally figured out how to get around overwhelming postage costs with twice-yearly drops of merch to those who subscribe for 4 consecutive months in the Evan & Vexteria tier within that period.

This is what shipped out to followers in the second half of 2023!

x 2 notebooks (lined) + postcards (with recycled paper envelopes) + vinyl stickers + a signed personalised individual letter. In this first instance, I am also the artist of this merch.

Here's me preparing everything :D

Each merch shipment will be different items and different themes - sometimes fanart, sometimes quotes, or focuses on different stories. The items can individually change too. It might be journals, more varied stickers, other forms of stationary, enamel pins, and more.

What do you get in this tier?

In this tier you get access to everything. All the early access, the merch, you get credits in all future books (which, with publishing hopefully kicking off in 2024 means seeing your name in print a fair bit!), and see any other extras I choose to share.

Why 4 consecutive months to be eligible for that 6 month drop?

To cover overseas shipping costs, which start at $20, and to also cover the raw cost of the merchandise, and also still be able to make an income off Patreon or Ream in this tier.

I like the look of an older merch bundle, can I get that instead?

Only if there's stock left over for that! And you can't get both at the same time, so if I can make a bundle based off past merchandise for you, it will be in lieu of the current bundle.

How is it shipped? How long does it take?

It's all shipped super safely. Before I worked as a writer, I worked as an artist selling fragile traditional art pieces. I've shipped over 500 worldwide. Your merch comes in a water resistant plastic sleeve that is sealed and very durable, and that goes into a thick envelope that has bubble wrap incorporated into it to make sure everything arrives safe and sound, even in inclement weather.

Because I'm shipping from Australia, items can take 2-6 weeks to arrive.

Could you ever send merch more often?

Not at the current price/s of this tier! Many overseas / non-US writers don't actually offer merch drops like this at all, and offer digital items, or only do Print-on-Demand which means nothing can be as personalised as writing you a letter of gratitude and celebration of your awesomeness.

Doing it this way means I can put a personal touch in there, and bundle everything, and know that everything's shipping safely with materials I really trust. :) It also means I can inspect every single item personally to make sure it's up to my standards before it goes to you!

Where do I check this out?

Go have a look at the memberships over on Patreon and Ream! You want the Vexteria & Evan tier. :D

Memberships at Ream (You can join for free here and follow me here without subscribing and just get a feel for it first!

Memberships at Patreon

A huge THANK YOU to the people who have been on this tier for ages even without these kinds of rewards. Your support is so incredibly invaluable, and I can't wait for you all to receive the first Augus & Gwyn themed merch drop. :D Y'all made this possible, and I appreciate you so much.

If anyone has any questions, hit me up! I'm super hyped for this. I fully understand if it's not something folks can afford, and I'm hoping to find a way to make merch more widely available in time, so that folks don't have to miss out, but until then, we have the Merch tier back up and running for the first time since about 2014!

Things like this keep the lights on, and keep the stories coming out to you over time, and more than anything, y'all have no idea how much fun I had writing individual letters to the folks in this tier, celebrating what I really loved / thought was awesome about them.

All right, thanks for your time, I'll get back to posting chapters now :D

#pia on patreon #pia on ream #housekeeping #merch tier #fae tales merchandise #fae tales verse #mm romance #queer romance #hurt/comfort #angst with a happy ending #own voices #queer writers #i stopped merch almost a decade ago #and now i know exactly how i want this to work #and i really think as i get to know better suppliers #i'll be able to offer more over time #i'm hoping most of the items are functional and useable #but collector's cards are potentially on the horizon as well dsalkfjdas

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bucks-little-hop · 1 year ago

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i wanna be the shadow when my bright future's behind me 2.2k

Buddie Week 2024 Day 3 - Clipboard Buck - Tattoos - "Is that my shirt?"

Read on ao3 here

Buck was up to something, that much was clear. He was being weird. Not the usual Buck weirdness, but the one he only got when he was making a decision that he wasn’t 100% sure on. His track record wasn’t always the best when it came to making a decision that was best for him. Best for the others, sure. Best for him? Not necessarily. The first shift he was being avoidant, no one pushed. Everyone had their off shifts. Yes Buck did chronically overshare about certain parts of his life, but he did still keep things close. Most important information about his life did seem to come out accidentally. The team had even left it alone for the next 3 shifts. The team may have let it go, and just let Buck come to them when he was ready, except they all had a day when Buck was coming in late.

“So Eddie, what’s up with Buck?” Hen asked, going for casual. She would have fooled an outsider, but not any of the people in the loft. She took a seat next to Eddie on the couch.

“Would you believe me if I said I really don’t know anything? Eddie put his phone down, turning to face Hen. “I tried asking, but he used Christopher to deflect. I couldn’t question him when suddenly I am intrenched in middle school drama. I think he might be talking to Maddie about it thought?”

The pair on the couch turned towards Chimney sitting at the table. He was trying to innocently drink his coffee and not get pulled into the conversation. If it was any kind of secret, they would weasel it out of him.

Hen narrowed her eyes. “Chim, what do you know?”

“If I have outside information, that is between me and my informants. You should just get better sources.” Chim stood up, preparing to head to a different part of the station.

“So you do know something!” Hen got up and dragged Chim over to the couches with them. They weren’t nosy gossips for no reason. It was because they cared. It was also because Chim would cave and tell them what he knows. “So does it involve Maddie? Or is it just a Buck thing he’s talking to her about?”

Chimney was going to hold strong, really he was. But he knew they meant well, and it could be important. “I’m not sure. I overheard Maddie talking on the phone with him about an appointment next week. Something about Buck going first, and then Maddie joining him towards the end? There wasn’t much other detail there.”

“Buck took time off next week. He’s off on our 96 and then has 2 more days. You think it could be something serious?” Eddie was well aware of Buck’s time off. Buck made sure it was on the calendar on Eddie’s fridge. ‘No Dream Team’ with a frowning face was plastered over the two days. It was a silly thing to mark when they wouldn’t be on shift together, but they would continue to do it. Shifts always felt a little off when they weren’t partners. Easier to have the reminder to prepare.

“Buck? Willingly taking time off and not because Cap told him he had too much PTO accusing? There has to be something wrong there.” Hen pointed out. They all knew Buck’s PTO always seemed to be at the max of his bank, with him either donating it to others or Bobby forcing him to take some days off. He still usually ended up coming to visit the station one or two of the days off. There being a mystery appointment and Buck willingly taking time off? Clearly it was something bigger.

“If it was something medical, he would have to tell Bobby, right?” Eddie spoke, hoping his voice sounded even and level and didn’t give anything away. He was worried. He and Buck didn’t usually keep major things from each other, especially when it was major. “I can’t say for sure, but I don’t think Bobby knows. He seemed worried last shift too.” Not that Eddie was the assigned Buck keeper, but he knew Buck hadn’t seen Bobby since the last shift either.

Any further thoughts on the matter were cut short by the blaring of the alarm. They all rushed to answer the call. The conversation wasn’t over, but it would have to wait. The team was a family, but they knew their little group was far closer with each other than the rest of the shift. They wouldn’t share something about Buck’s personal life with any of them.

The call was originally only a single structure fire, but the wind had managed to push embers turning it rapidly into a 3 alarm fire. By the time they all got back to the station, any thought of continuing their conversation went to the wayside of getting in a hot shower and a nap. Eddie spent a little longer in the bathroom than the others. He was enjoying the hot water, and puzzling though everything that was going on. He and Buck hadn’t disclosed their relationship to the rest of the team yet. Bobby was the only one that knew, and that was only a paperwork thing. The two wanted to enjoy their time going from BuckandEddie to BuckandEddie. The shift had felt like the most natural thing to them, but their bubble was comfortable. Exposing the relationship to everyone else would be a lot more opinions than they were prepared to handle. The opinions would come from a place of love, Eddie was positive of that, but it was still a lot to have their family involved while there were still a few things the two needed to work through. Two people couldn’t have that much shared trauma without it eventually becoming some kind of a block.

Eddie did eventually force himself out of the shower. He quickly got changed, before deciding to grab a hoodie out of his shared locker with Buck. The hoodie he reached for was definitely one of Buck’s. One of the other shift member’s wife had made them all them last Christmas. They had a little 101 Dalmatian graphic on the front and their last names on the back. Eddie would never admit it, but he wore Buck’s version of the hoodie more than he wore his own. Having oversized clothing he could steal from his significant other was a new novel thing. He wouldn’t trade it for the world. He enjoyed the extra space in the shoulders and arms, the fraying starting on left side of the pocket from where Buck snagged it on something, the extra warmth that seemed to come just from it being Buck’s.

The removal of the hoodie revealed something Eddie knew hadn’t been in the locker before. It was Buck’s clipboard. It was both a terror to the station, but a guarantee that everything was going to be done correctly. Normally, it was left hanging in a storage closet for when Buck got restless and went to make sure they had enough stock in the firehouse. For it to be in the locker, it felt like something was up. Checking around to make sure he was alone, Eddie pulled it out and sat down on one of the benches. He wasn’t sure what he was expecting to see, but he was not expected to see a bunch of doodles with Buck’s messy scrawl around them.

Buck could be a semi decent artist when he wanted, the years of drawing with Christopher seems have paid off. Eddie felt his eyebrows furrow as he tried to connect the dots, but he wasn’t connecting shit at the moment. Did the doodles have to do with Buck’s weird behavior? The more Eddie stared, the less sense it made until he looked at one particular doodle. It looked almost like the outline of a polaroid with two fish where the photo would have gone. The handwriting on the bottom of it should have been a dead give away. Just keep swimming, written out by Christopher.

“Is that my hoodie?” Buck’s voice startled Eddie. Eddie felt a slight blush across his face, feeling like a kid caught in the cookie jar. He knew he could steal Buck’s clothing. The two had shared plenty of times before they got together. The overwhelming urge to shove the clipboard back in the locker and pretend he hadn’t seen it did overcome Eddie, but he knew that would seem even more suspicious.

“If you wanted to wear it, should have worked the full shift with the rest of us.” Eddie looked up as Buck walked into the locker room, pausing to drop a kiss to Eddie’s forehead before stuffing his bag into their locker.

“Heard it was a rough call, you okay?” Buck shut the locker door and turned around, eyes evaluating his boyfriend. He could see the tense line in the older man’s shoulders as he nodded. The younger man held continued to study Eddie for a few seconds before sitting down on Eddie’s left. “I left that in the locker, you don’t need to feel guilty about seeing it.”

“I still should have asked. I knew it wasn’t mine and you clearly haven’t been ready to talk about what’s going on with you.” Eddie kept his voice light, making sure there was an out for Buck. He was curious about the clipboard in his hands but he wouldn’t push. He always knew Buck would tell him whenever he was ready to share. Until then, Eddie could support from the side. If it was something medical, it couldn’t have been major as he would only be off a week and Bobby didn’t seem to know about it.

“I was going to tell you, I just wasn’t sure how.” It was Buck’s turn to look a little sheepish. He gently took the clipboard from Eddie’s hands. “I’ve been planning a few new tattoos out. I wanted to get one for everyone important to me. I know everyone will try and talk me out of it, but I need to do this. I’ve talked it through with Dr. Copeland I promise.” He took a deep breath in with a slow exhale before continuing. “I know I am important to you all, and I really hope you all know how much I love you all. This is just a reminder for me. Even when we drift a little these are just reminders for me of the relationship we have. It’s a reminder of everything we have all been through. It’s why I’m taking time off. I’m getting them all done and then they need healing time before I can come back to work. ”

Eddie stared down at the paper, everything clicking. He could see the various designs, not entirely sure on how all of them related to each person. The polaroid was clearly Buck and Chris. If he had to guess, the pinkies interlocking with some kind of monogram was for Maddie. There was a bundle of flowers he didn’t recognize but he thought could be for Athena. There was another design that looked like a bunch of random shapes and scribbles, but he was sure held just as much meaning if not more than the others. Eddie reached over to interlace his closest hand with Bucks.

“I don’t think anyone would be mad about it. Maybe they would tell you to spread them out so you can recover more between the two. Everyone’s been worried about you all week, and then Chim let it slip that you had an appointment and you know us. We all jumped to worse case scenario.” He gave Buck a gentle smile, wanting to make sure he was alright before he started his teasing again. “So which one is for me huh, I better be the most special one.”

Buck took a second before responding. “I’m still working on yours. I haven’t liked anything my artist or I have come up with yet. Plus, we already sort of have matching tattoos and it’s going to be hard to top that.” Buck traced over Eddie’s arm tattoo with his spare hand. Eddie may not have been one to believe in fate and all that, but Buck did. There had to be some reason he and Eddie got tattoos that would line up together years before they met. “I’ll be at the studio pretty much the whole day. Maddie’s coming in at the end to get hers matching with me, but you could always come in earlier? Help me try and pick a design? Might have to hold someone’s hand too.”

Eddie pulled their intertwined fingers to his lips, dropping a gentle kiss on the back of Buck's hand. He knew it would be an important day for Buck and he would do his best to be there. “I can come right after I drop Christopher off at school. Wouldn’t want you holding anyone else’s hand. I waited long enough for the privilege to be able to in the first place. Who knows, it’s been a while since I got a some fresh ink.”

#ty writes #buddie week 2024 #eddie diaz #evan buckley #love losing power mid week so I'm behind now #ill post day 4 a little later #and then day 5 after work for some spacing

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sagarrachnagrp · 1 year ago

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‘Together with’ Question Bank Class 10 English Communicative 2024 with Practice Papers

Together with CBSE Question Bank Class 10 English Communicative based on latest syllabus for 2025 Board exam preparation. Latest edition of CBSE Question Bank Class 10 based on the latest syllabus includes Section-wise Reading Material and Solved Question Bank includes Short & Long Answer Type Questions, Completely Solved CBSE Textbook Exercises, MCQs, Case-based/Source-based Integrated Questions and Practice Papers for board exam preparation..

#CBSE Question Bank Class 10 English #Question Bank Class 10 English Communicative 2024 #CBSE Question Bank Class 10 #Questions and Practice Papers for board exam preparation

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online-shopping-app-chennai · 8 months ago

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Can I Sell Online Without GST? GST Requirements for E-commerce

In 2024, the trend of e-commerce has transformed the way people shop and businesses operate online. Whether you're selling groceries, electronic items, or running a full-fledged online store, the question of GST (Goods and Services Tax) often arises. GST is a consumption tax levied on the supply of goods and services in Chennai, Tamilnadu designed to replace various indirect taxes.

What is GST?

GST is a comprehensive indirect tax on online store, sale, and consumption of goods and services throughout India, aimed at simplifying the tax structure on consumers. It is mandatory for businesses whose turnover exceeds specified thresholds to register under GST and comply with its regulations.

You Need GST for Selling Online on Shocals

The requirement for GST registration depends primarily on your turnover and the category of your business. Here are some key points to consider for GST:

Threshold Limits: As of the latest information available, businesses with an aggregate turnover exceeding Rs. 40 lakhs (Rs. 10 lakhs for northeastern states) in a financial year must register for GST. This turnover includes all taxable supplies, exempt supplies, exports of goods and services, and inter-state supplies.

Inter-state Tamilnadu Sales: If you are selling goods or services to customers in different states, you are likely to exceed the turnover threshold sooner. GST registration is mandatory for businesses making inter-state supplies, regardless of turnover.

Mandatory Registration: Even if your turnover is below the threshold, you may choose to voluntarily register for GST. This can be beneficial for claiming input tax credits on purchases and improving your business credibility.

Selling on Shocals Partners

If you are selling through popular Shocals Partners, you need to understand the policies regarding GST compliance. It requires sellers to provide GSTIN (GST Identification Number) during registration and ensure compliance with GST laws.

Steps to Register for GST

If you decide to register for GST, here's a brief overview of the registration process:

Prepare Documents: Keep your PAN (Permanent Account Number), proof of business registration, identity and address proof, bank account details, and business address proof.

Online Registration: Visit the GST portal (www.gst.gov.in) and fill out the registration form with required details. Upload scanned copies of documents as specified.

Verification: After submission, your application will be verified by the GST authorities. Once approved, you will receive your GSTIN and other credentials.

Benefits of GST Registration

While GST compliance involves maintaining proper accounting records and filing periodic returns, it offers several advantages:

Input Tax Credit: You can claim credit for GST paid on your business purchases, thereby reducing your overall tax liability.

Legal Compliance: Avoid penalties and legal repercussions by operating within the GST framework.

Business Expansion: Facilitates smoother inter-state and international sales, enhancing business opportunities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while small businesses and startups may initially wonder if they can sell online without GST, understanding the thresholds and benefits of GST registration is crucial. Compliance not only ensures legal adherence but also opens avenues for business growth and competitiveness in the digital marketplace. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an established seller, staying informed about GST requirements will help you navigate the e-commerce landscape more effectively.

For more details please visit - https://partner.shocals.com/

#online store #onlineshopping #small business #business #store

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catdotjpeg · 1 year ago

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Over four months of ruthless Israeli attacks on Gaza have left the besieged enclave, which is home to over 2 million people, decimated. More than half of its population has been crammed into Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah after Israel deemed the area a “safe zone.” However, Israel has since announced plans to conduct a ground invasion of the city, which will put hundreds of thousands of families’ lives at risk. “We will fight until complete victory and this includes a powerful action also in Rafah after we allow the civilian population to leave the battle zones,” the Israeli prime minister said on X. In light of the looming operation, Egypt is allegedly preparing for the Rafah’s population to be expelled.

The rights group Sinai Foundation for Human Rights (SFUR) has reported that construction is currently underway to create a security zone with Gaza, which would act as a buffer area that could receive Palestinian refugees if they are forced out of the besieged enclave. Citing local contractors, SFUR says the aim is to create an area in the Sinai peninsula that is surrounded by seven-meter-high walls in an area that will be paved over the destroyed homes of indigenous groups in the area. The report, which Mondoweiss has not independently verified, states that the construction will not take more than ten days. Since October, Israel has proposed various plans to push Gaza’s Palestinian residents into Egypt, which Cairo has rejected.

“It [Rafah] sits right at the border with Egypt. It’s seen by the Egyptians as a major breach of their national security, and ultimately it brings the question of where will these 1.3 to 1.4 million people go?” Middle East specialist Hafsa Halawa told Al Jazeera. “The rest of Gaza is effectively uninhabitable, there are no services, we’ve heard the talk of famine for months now, and now we’re at a stage where this is really the Israeli government enacting what they promised on the first week after the attacks of October 7, which is to flatten the Strip.”

People are fleeing Rafah because of Israel’s increased air raids, a threatened Israeli ground invasion, and also because they are struggling to survive in the overcrowded city in southern Gaza, according to the latest update from the U.N. humanitarian agency (OCHA). Fabrizio Carboni, the International Committee of the Red Cross’s (ICRC) director for the Middle East, said in a statement: “In view of a military operation in densely populated Rafah, we renew our call on the parties to the conflict, and all who have influence on them, to spare and protect civilian lives and infrastructure,” “Under international humanitarian law, parties to the conflict must ensure the basic necessities of life are provided and the necessary safeguards to preserve life are undertaken for the civilian population. It is urgent to do more now. Countless lives are hanging in the balance,” Carboni continued. Similarly, the Lemkin Institute for Genocide Prevention has said that the U.S. “must take immediate steps to prevent further destruction, loss of life, and displacement in Gaza and the West Bank.”

“None of the Biden Administration’s tactics to deny genocide and avoid accountability will withstand the test of time. President Biden and key administration officials are on a path to be remembered as the principal enablers of one of the worst genocides in the 21st century,” the group said in a statement. Rik Peeperkorn, WHO representative for Gaza and the occupied West Bank, says a total Israeli military offensive against Rafah would not only “further expand the humanitarian disaster beyond imagination” but “push the health system closer to the brink of collapse.”

-- From "‘Operation Al-Aqsa Flood’ Day 132" by Leila Warah for Mondoweiss, 15 Feb 2024

#palestine #rafah #egypt #usa

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giftofshewbread · 2 years ago

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Why?

Published on: August 12, 2023 by :Daymond Duck

On Aug. 2, 2023, Anne Graham Lotz (daughter of Billy Graham) wrote: “If I believe what He (Jesus) said about sin, salvation, forgiveness, the love of God the Father, eternal life, His own identity, and all the other big truths (John 3:16–17; 5:17–21; 11:25–26.), then it stands to reason that what He said about His return is equally true. Jesus is coming! The glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, is imminent! (Titus 2:13).

Ann’s statement is right on target, but it triggers questions in my mind:

If Christians believe the Bible is the Word of God, why do so many doubt or ignore what it says about the return of Jesus?

If Jesus is coming back to make this world better (establish peace, justice, and righteousness on earth), why aren’t more Christians excited about it?

If the return of Jesus is our blessed hope, why are so many Christians living without hope today?

If the Rapture of the Church is near, why aren’t more Christians talking about the dangers of being left behind, taking the Mark of the Beast, etc.?

I suppose there are many reasons why (unbelief; complicated subject; scary, etc.), but make no mistake about it, Jesus is coming back ready or not, and the number of people that think we are getting close is rapidly growing.

Anyway, here are some recent current events that seem to indicate that we are getting close to the return of Jesus for His church (Rapture).

One, concerning war between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon: on Aug. 1, 2023, Israeli Prime Min. Netanyahu met with Israeli military and security officials to discuss Hezbollah’s actions on Israel’s northern border with Lebanon.

They concluded that the threat of war is the greatest it has been in the last 17 years (since the end of the Second Lebanon War in 2006).

Southern Lebanon is part of the Land that God said Israel will get at the end of the age.

Put another way: Hezbollah is occupying part of the Promised Land and will lose it if it starts a third war with Israel.

(More: On Aug. 3, 2023, Israel notified the UN Security Council that the situation on its border with Lebanon is a powder keg. This writer is not aware of the UN doing anything to calm the situation.)

(More: On Aug. 8, 2023, Israel’s Defense Min. warned Hezbollah and Lebanon that Israel is prepared to strike all of Hezbollah’s assets and return Lebanon to the stone age if Israel is attacked.)

(More: On Aug. 8, 2023, it was reported that Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and other nations are warning their citizens to leave Lebanon. It was also reported that Israel is trying to prepare for casualties and damage in the event that they are struck by thousands of rockets in the next few days.)

Two, concerning the coming global famine: on Aug. 2, 2023, Ukraine’s Pres. Zelensky accused Russia of trying to create a global catastrophe by disrupting the global food supply and collapsing global food markets.

Zelensky was referring to the fact that Russia is preventing the shipment of Ukrainian food exports to other nations, causing the price of food to rise and increasing hunger and famine in Africa.

Three, concerning the 2024 elections: on Aug. 3, 2023, it was reported that a man known for shady dealings, George Soros, has given more than $750,000 and created a political action committee (PAC) to convert the state of Texas from Republican to Democrat.

Large contributions like this one are one reason why many politicians do the bidding of globalists instead of the voters.

The politicians have been bought and paid for.

Four, concerning wickedness (as in the days of Noah): on Aug. 4, 2023, it was reported that crime in Washington D.C. has gotten so bad that the Mexican government (home of the drug cartels) is warning its citizens to avoid going there.

Five, concerning the coming economic collapse: on Aug. 4, 2023, Michael Hartnett, a strategist at the Bank of America (based on Congressional Budget Office data), predicted that America’s national debt will rise $5.2 billion a day every day for the next ten years.

(More: On Aug. 7, 2023, Moody’s cut the ratings of ten small to mid-size banks in the U.S. and said it may soon have to downgrade some of America’s largest banks.)

(More: On Aug. 8, 2023, the Federal Reserve Bank of New York reported that in the second quarter of 2023, credit card debt in the U.S. reached $1.03 trillion.)

(More: On Aug. 8, 2023, at the time this is being written, all the oil being used in the world is being sold in U.S. dollars. On Aug. 22, 2023, the BRICS nations plan to announce that 60% of the oil being used in the world will be sold in their new gold-backed currency. Many experts say this will eventually cause the value of the dollar to drop significantly.)

Six, concerning an Israeli normalization agreement with Saudi Arabia that would be a big step toward peace: on Aug. 7, 2023, Israeli Prime Min. Netanyahu said he believes the two nations could achieve some form of normalization in the coming months.

Time will tell.

Seven, concerning the ashes of a red heifer and a rebuilt Temple: on Aug. 8, 2023, it was reported that the Jews are only months away from having a red heifer that is old enough to sacrifice.

It has also been reported that the Israeli government has discretely shifted some funds to prepare for purification services and possibly the construction of a third Temple.

According to the report, very little is being said about this because it is an explosive issue.

Eight, concerning the coming cashless society and tracking all buying and selling: the opponent of Chancellor Karl Nehammer in Austria’s upcoming election accused Nehammer of planning to ban cash and track Austria’s citizens.

Nehammer has responded by announcing plans to push a law that guarantees Austrian citizens the right to make purchases with cash.

FYI: God does not send anyone to Hell (all of us are born with a sin nature and destined to go to Hell because we sin), but God has provided a way (Jesus) for everyone to go to Heaven (and He is the only way to get there; John 14:6).

Finally, are you Rapture Ready?

If you want to be rapture ready and go to heaven, you must be born again (John 3:3). God loves you, and if you have not done so, sincerely admit that you are a sinner; believe that Jesus is the virgin-born, sinless Son of God who died for the sins of the world, was buried, and raised from the dead; ask Him to forgive your sins, cleanse you, come into your heart and be your Saviour; then tell someone that you have done this.

#geneology #people #men #women #children #rapture #jesus #god #truth #israel #money #chip #digital #trending #now #today #headlines

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avianespionage · 1 year ago

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"Your a fucking idiot!!"

"Do you think that it started with Hamas on Oct. 7th?"

"Holy shit!!"

"Deliberately targeting civilians and taking old people and children hostage"

You sure about that?

"Finally, it explains why army spokesperson, Daniel Hagari found that a "substantial" number of the hostages taken by Hamas are military officers." -Wsw.org (Referenced later also!!)

'Jewish militias organized several bombing attacks against civilians and military Arab targets. On 12 December 1947, the Irgun placed a car bomb opposite the Damascus Gate, the main entrance to the Old City of Jerusalem, killing 20 people.[19] On 4 January 1948, the Lehi detonated a lorry bomb against the headquarters of the paramilitary al-Najjada located in Jaffa's Town Hall, killing 15 Arabs and injuring 80.[19][20]'

'The next day, Irgun members in a stolen police van rolled a barrel bomb[22] into a large group of civilians who were waiting for a bus by the Jaffa Gate, killing 20.[23][24][25][26] Another Irgun bomb went off in the Ramla market on 18 February, killing 7 residents and injuring 45.[27] On 28 February, the Palmach organised a bombing attack against a garage in Haifa, killing 30 people.[28]'

Yeah. Israel did bad things.

More than Hamas EVER did.

"As of 5 March 2024, over 31,000 people (30,228 Palestinian and 1,410 Israeli) have been reported as killed in the Israel–Hamas war, including 94 journalists (89 Palestinian, 2 Israeli and 3 Lebanese) and over 136 UNRWA aid workers."

Look at THE FUCKING NUMBERS

". As the World Socialist Web Site has repeatedly warned, ever since his government took office at the end of 2022, Netanyahu has mounted provocation after provocation against the Palestinians aimed at inciting retaliation, as then occurred on October 7. Al-Aqsa Flood provided the casus belli for a pre-planned campaign of mass murder and ethnic cleansing of the Palestinians beginning with Gaza and then moving on to the West bank and including Israel’s two million Arab citizens."

"Many of the Israeli families of those killed, injured or taken hostage on October 7—reflecting a widely held view that Netanyahu is responsible for the disaster and did nothing to prevent it—have called for an independent and international investigation, which the government has refused. They have demanded answers to two basic questions:

What did Israel’s military-intelligence apparatus know in advance about what Hamas had planned?

And what actually happened over the weekend of October 7-8?"

"The authorities have not explained how Israel’s massive electronic border fence could have been breached with only rudimentary tools and without any sirens going off or army bases being alerted—with the result that the Middle East’s most sophisticated army took hours to arrive at the scene in a country no bigger than the US state of New Jersey."

"...and prevent the establishment of a mini-Palestinian state made up of the West Bank and Gaza."

"Just two days after the attack, on Monday October 9, Egypt exposed Netanyahu’s protestations that he had no foreknowledge. An Egyptian intelligence official told the Associated Press that Cairo had repeatedly warned the Israeli authorities that “something big” was being planned."

"Netanyahu has denied receiving any such warning, denouncing the story as “fake news.”

"Israel’s own soldiers also reportedly raised the alarm. But they were ignored and threatened."

"Put more bluntly, they wanted an atrocity and so stood down their defence and rescue services. Furthermore, the Biden administration’s full-throated support for Israel—including its deployment of warships to the region the very next day—indicates that October 7 was seized on by US military and intelligence officials to activate war plans prepared long in advance."

"Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli prisons—some 1,500 of whom were being held under administrative detention, without charge or trial, for an indefinite period."

"..which just five days earlier had been extended by one day to October 7."

"According to reports in the Israeli press, the IDF, “caught off guard,” were slow to respond to the desperate cries for help."

"377 military and police personnel and 845 civilians, for a downwardly revised total of 1,222. The initial total included some of the dead Palestinians.)"

"Some 1,500 Palestinians were reportedly killed, with none apparently captured alive. "

"IDF Apache helicopters were used repeatedly in the next days, killing not only Palestinian fighters, but also Israeli army personnel and civilians. The helicopter strikes explain the significant damage to buildings, with many burnt out, and the large number of burnt-out cars, as well as several burned bodies, which the government had blamed on Palestinians armed with rifles and hand grenades—weapons that are incapable of causing that level or type of damage."

"In the event, however, IDF soldiers fired not just on the Palestinians, but also on (Israeli) hostages."

"while several Israelis have claimed they were fired upon by Israeli military and police."

"Hamas could not have planned to attack it, as the festival organisers switched to the site in the Western Negev desert only two days before"

"IDF helicopter opened fire on the attackers, hitting some people attending the festival. ABC News had earlier reported that an Israeli tank had headed to the site of the festival, while videos appeared to show IDF forces opening fire at Palestinian fighters through a crowd of unarmed civilians."

"The IDF acted as brutal and trigger-happy mass murderers of both Palestinians and Israelis.

Many Israeli captives were still alive on the Monday, two days after the events of October 7.

Hostages were not only killed in the crossfire that took place between the IDF and Palestinian militia on the Saturday. Many were killed as a consequence of the IDF’s deliberate decision to attack the kibbutz with tank shells and other heavy weaponry at close quarters in the full knowledge that hostages and their captors were there.

The IDF, not the Palestinians, caused many of the Israeli civilian deaths that were used to justify Israel’s genocidal war on Gaza and the deployment of US warships to the Middle East. How many can only be confirmed by releasing the results of autopsies that would show the type of bullets used."

"Far from protecting Israeli civilians, the Netanyahu government and the IDF used them as cannon fodder in pursuit of a policy of Israeli expansionism and Jewish Supremacy."

"Netanyahu has, in part, agreed to a temporary “operational pause” in Israel’s genocidal assault on Gaza, in return for Hamas releasing 50 hostages, to try and contain mounting anger within Israel over his responsibility for October 7. But there is no reason to believe this will work."

"It is not a question, as Israel’s Zionist opposition to Netanyahu put it, of handing the reins to someone who is more militarily and politically “competent” to wage mass murder and ethnic cleansing, such as defence minister Gallant.

The demand must be for an immediate end to the genocide of the Palestinians, repudiating Zionism and advocating the creation of a multinational state with full equality for its Palestinian and Jewish citizens as part of a United Socialist States of the Middle East."

-https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2023/11/23/buna-n23.html

0:30 -0:50 : 'On Oct. 17th, 2023, more than 500 people were killed in an Israeli air strike at Al Alhi Arab Hospital in Gaza city. [..] Independent Investigators and weapons experts analyzed videos and ultimately concluded that the Israeli military was responsible for the strike.'

0:52 - 1:07: "The Israeli military, that said they would never do such a thing as bomb a hospital, bombed and raided Gaza's largest hospital, Al Shifa, alleging that Hamas was operating a command centre in tunnels below the complex. A claim that was repeatedly denied by both Hamas and hospital administration."

1:11 - 1:12: "The Israeli military also shared a *fabricated* 3-D animation to reveal what the tunnels apparently looked like."

1:19 - 1:21: [..] "But since Israeli forces finally gained access to the hospital, the military has yet to provide concrete evidence of a subterranean Hamas command centre."

2:23: "The right to self defense applies to a state when it is attacked by another, and its national security and existence are exposed to danger. At that time, this state informs the United Nations first, and then uses for to defend itself. This does not apply to the current situation. (Gaza) - Shawan Jabareen."

2:30 -2:39:"[..] Israeli forces have intentionally targeted civillian areas, throught the enclave accusing all of Gaza's residents ((Yes. Including the children that were less than a few days old who were killed.)) of being 'aware' and 'involved' with Hamas."

2:58 - 3:05: 'Meaning, over 80% of Gaza's population to flee their homes and become displaced due it's relentless air strikes."

3:28- 3:32 'So that anyone critical of the Israeli State, or its actions is invariably and automatically charged with anti-Semitism.'

3:43-3:44: 'And to discourage Jews critical of Israel's inhumane and illegal activities from speaking up.'

(Sound familiar? Oh yeah. It does. https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/timeline-event/holocaust/1942-1945/german-poster-announces-death-penalty-for-aiding-jews, "I remind you that according to the Third Decree of the General Governor's concerning the residential restrictions in the General Government of 10/15/1941 (VBL; abbreviation for Verordnungsblatt Generalgouvernement, p. 595) not only Jews who have left their designated residential area will be punished with death, but the same penalty applies to anyone who knowingly provides refuge to such Jews. This includes not only the providing of a night's lodging and food, but also any other aid, such as transporting them in vehicles of any sort, through the purchase of Jewish valuables, etc.")

3:50-3:57: "The Israeli military has used deadly weapons and ammunition including white phosphorus shells in its attack on Gaza. A clear violation of international law."

(Hey sound familiar? 'Munitions containing white phosphorus were used extensively in World War II' https://www.weaponslaw.org/weapons/white-phosphorus-munitions#:~:text=White%20phosphorus%20has%20been%20used,as%20an%20anti%2Dpersonnel%20weapon.)

4:25-4:50: 'Tel Aviv has been claiming that Palestinian civilians are being killed because Hamas is using them as human shields, however no evidence has been put forth to substantiate this claim and even international organizations have been unable to verify it. In fact, rights groups argue that the use of human shields is actually a 'common practice' employed by Israeli soldiers.'(Example is shown in video.)

4:57-5:06: 'Soon after ordering Palestinians in northern Gaza to move to the south, which it [IDF] assured would be a 'safe zone', Israel began bombing the southern region alleging that it was also a centre of Hamas activity.'

5:09-5:21: 'Israeli officals designated Al Mawasi in southern Gaza as a safe zone that would have acess to humanitarian aid. Yet what displaced Palestinians found, instead, was a desolate wasteland without any infastructure.'

5:27-5:43: 'Following the killing of Al Jazeera journalist, Same Abu Daqqa in Gaza, the Israeli army stated, on Dec. 16th, that 'it has never, and will never deliberately target journalists.' (Those guys are in bright blue, for a reason.) However, since Oct. 7th, Israel has killed at least 109 journalists in Gaza." (all of which were wearing the blue vest reading 'PRESS'.)

5:53: 'It [Israel] refers to Palestinian resistance groups, including Hamas, as 'terrorist' organizations. All while Tel Aviv itself faces accusations of war crimes and human rights violations.' (Wanna go to Telegram and see some of those? Yeah? Yeah? )

6:30-7:00: 'Following Hamas's attack on Israel, Israeli media had reported that the Palestinian group had killed at least 40 babies, quoting Israeli forces as the source of this information. [..] Said that babies and toddlers had been found with their 'heads decapitated'. But soon thereafter, international journalists and news agencies who had reported the stoy walked back on their reports. (USA Today, New York Post, CNN, CBS News Miami.) and Israeli officals say that they could not confirm that any babies had been beheaded.'

-https://www.trtworld.com/video/digital/gaza-lies-israel-fed-the-world-since-october-7-16627251

Shut the fuck up. Do your research before talking. Thanks.

Holy shit

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glenleibowitz · 3 days ago

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The Future of Startup Exits: Trends in IPOs, SPACs, and Acquisitions

If you’re leading a startup with an eye on the exit door, this is the year to start paying closer attention. The market is shifting, capital is recalibrating, and exit strategies are no longer moving in a single direction. Whether you're considering an IPO, a SPAC merger, or a direct acquisition, each option now comes with sharper scrutiny, tighter valuations, and more demand for real performance. In this article, you'll get a clear look at how exit trends are unfolding in 2025, how buyers and investors are thinking, and what moves you should be making to position your company for success in the current environment.

IPOs Are Back—but They’re Pickier Than Ever

You’ve probably noticed that IPO activity picked up over the past year—and yes, the public markets are opening up again. In 2024, U.S. IPOs raised over $41 billion, a big rebound compared to the previous two years. That momentum is continuing into 2025, but don’t mistake it for a return to the era of hype-based listings. Investors are no longer throwing money at companies with steep losses and vague growth stories. They want profitability, clear margins, and solid unit economics.

As a founder, this means you need to clean up your financials, reduce your cash burn, and be ready to explain exactly how your business scales profitably. Companies like Stripe and Chime have been preparing for public launches not just by expanding, but by demonstrating maturity. If you want to go public in this market, it’s less about being flashy and more about being ready to operate with public accountability from day one.

SPACs Aren’t Dead—They’ve Just Grown Up

A few years ago, SPACs were everywhere. Then came the reality check. Many of those early deals didn’t deliver, and regulators clamped down on loose forecasts and rushed mergers. Now, the SPAC model is quieter, but not gone. In fact, it’s returning with better discipline. So far in 2025, over 50 SPAC IPOs have launched, raising around $7.6 billion.

The difference now is that sponsors are more selective, and targets are being vetted more thoroughly. You can still take your company public via a SPAC, but you’ll need the same operational readiness as a traditional IPO—plus a clear plan for post-merger execution. If you're exploring this route, make sure your unit economics and financial projections hold up under scrutiny. PIPE financing also plays a bigger role now, which means you’ll need strong institutional backers to get the deal across the line.

Acquisitions Are Driving Strategic Consolidation

Acquisition activity has ramped up, especially in tech and healthcare. In 2025, startup acquisitions have already exceeded $54 billion in value, with several deals topping $1 billion each. Google’s $32 billion purchase of Wiz, a cybersecurity firm, signals that large buyers are still hunting for innovation they can scale inside their own ecosystem.

If your product solves a critical problem—or extends the reach of a buyer’s existing platform—there’s a good chance you’ll be on someone’s radar. Acquisitions offer a faster path to liquidity with less pressure to build out an IPO infrastructure. But the key is alignment. Acquirers are prioritizing companies that fit culturally, operationally, and strategically. If your startup can plug into an enterprise with minimal friction and accelerate growth, you’ll have stronger negotiating leverage.

What Buyers Are Looking for

Across all exit formats, the one thing that’s become clear is this: buyers and public investors are placing more weight on operational discipline than ever. If you’re running a company with solid recurring revenue, low churn, and clear margins, you’re in a good position. But if you’re still banking on future growth without a clear path to cash flow, you’ll face tougher questions.

They’ll want to see customer retention metrics, CAC-to-LTV ratios, and realistic growth projections. They’ll check how reliant you are on a small number of clients, what your gross margins look like, and whether your leadership team is capable of running at scale. This applies whether you're going public, merging with a SPAC, or getting acquired by a larger firm.

Timing Matters, But So Does Preparation

Market timing will always matter, but it can’t replace being prepared. If you're waiting for valuations to climb or for a wave of buyers to suddenly knock on your door, you're wasting time. Instead, start preparing now. Clean up your data, update your financial models, get an audit if you haven’t already, and make sure your contracts and IP are buttoned up.

That prep work makes your company easier to acquire, easier to underwrite, and easier to trust. The more friction you remove from the exit process, the more options you’ll have—and the better your terms will be when it's time to negotiate. Founders who treat exits like a process, not a lucky break, are the ones who tend to win.

Exit Multiples Are Down—But Deal Quality Is Up

Let’s be real: if you’re expecting a 30x revenue multiple, you’re living in the wrong decade. Multiples have compressed. In many sectors, 6x to 10x revenue is now considered premium—unless you’re showing serious margin expansion or hyper-growth. But that’s not bad news.

Valuations have become more stable, and deals are getting structured with more discipline. That means fewer broken promises post-deal, and more realistic expectations all around. It also means that if your company has strong fundamentals, you can stand out. The bar is higher, but so is the quality of exits getting done.

What’s the Best Startup Exit Strategy?

IPOs are viable with strong margins and maturity

SPACs work for public-ready firms with investor backing

Acquisitions offer faster liquidity with strategic alignment

Prep work and financial readiness matter more than timing

In Conclusion

You’re no longer living in a market that rewards promises without proof. If you want your startup exit to succeed in 2025, you need to bring clarity, readiness, and a grounded view of what buyers or investors expect. Whether you’re aiming for an IPO, a SPAC merger, or a direct acquisition, your odds improve drastically when your financials are clean, your story is compelling, and your operations can scale. Stay focused, stay prepared, and approach the exit process as carefully as you built your company.

Explore insights on Pinterest: Discover curated content related to business and leadership.

#Glen Leibowitz #SPACs #and Acquisitions

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michelleden · 7 days ago

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How to Improve Your Executive Presence: A Story of Career Transformation

Meet Claire, an ambitious executive at a leading bank who was struggling to break through the corporate ceiling. Despite her impressive work ethic, technical expertise, and track record of delivering results, she kept hearing the same feedback: "You lack executive presence." The phrase haunted her, and despite multiple promotion attempts, Claire found herself continually passed over.

The feedback was vague and frustrating. Claire was confident in her skills but wasn't sure how to bridge the gap between her ability and how she was perceived in the room. That's when she reached out to me for help.

We began our work together with a focus on improving Claire's communication through a presentation skills course. It quickly became clear that her ability to structure persuasive messages was a key factor in her being overlooked. Claire had the technical skills, but her approach to presenting ideas to the executive team needed sharpening.

Claire is NSW based so through our targeted presentation skills course in Sydney, Claire learned how to structure her messages clearly and persuasively, allowing her to captivate her audience. A key takeaway was mastering audience analysis — tailoring her message to the specific needs and concerns of the decision-makers in the room.

We also focused on enhancing Claire's non-verbal communication: posture, voice modulation, and eye contact. These small but powerful changes immediately made her appear more confident, composed, and credible.

Managing energy in the room was another crucial piece. In our presentation courses in Sydney, it's important to cap the numbers at 10people per workshop. This provided a safe space for Claire to practice techniques that project calm authority while staying fully engaged with her audience. This essential practice boosted her confidence and helped Claire build strong emotional connections with her stakeholders.

Another often overlooked element of executive presence is appearance. Research consistently shows that attractive people tend to earn more than those who are perceived as less attractive. A study from the INFORMS journal Information Systems Research 2024 found that attractive MBA graduates not only earn higher salaries but are also significantly more likely to secure prestigious job roles, highlighting how appearance influences professional trajectories over decades.

The transformation was extraordinary. In her next presentation to the executive team, Claire dresses like a boss, confidently presented her ideas with strong gestures and a firm, steady voice punctuated by powerful pauses. She responded to questions with poise (because we had practiced what they might be, and prepared and rehearsed the answers). Yes! Claire engaged her audience like never before. Her feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and within months, Claire was promoted to an Executive role.

Executive presence is not about changing who you are — it's about elevating how you show up. With the right presentation skills course, or presentation skills coaching you can transform how prepared and brave you feel which affects the way you're perceived, the way you lead with influence, and you will unlock new career opportunities.

MICHELLE BOWDEN is an authority on persuasive presenting in business. She's run her presentation skills course over 1000 times for more than 13,000 people over the past 26 years and her name is a synonym for 'presentation skills' in Australia. She's the best-selling internationally published author of How to Present: the ultimate guide to presenting live and online (Wiley)https://michellebowden.com.au/presentation-skills-training-dates/

#presentation skills course #presentation skills course in Sydney #presentation courses in Sydney

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kgsupsccourses · 10 days ago

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Introduction to Current Affairs in Competitive Exams

Importance of Current Affairs

Current affairs play a pivotal role in shaping the general awareness section of various competitive exams. They encompass events of national and international significance, influencing the socio-economic and political landscape. Staying updated with current affairs not only aids in exam preparation but also enhances one’s understanding of the world.

Role in Various Competitive Exams

Competitive exams like UPSC, SSC, Banking, and Railway exams allocate a significant portion to current affairs. Questions may pertain to recent government schemes, international events, economic developments, and scientific advancements. A strong grasp of current affairs can thus be a game-changer in achieving a high score.

National Current Affairs

Recent Government Initiatives

The Indian government frequently launches initiatives aimed at socio-economic development. For instance, the 'Shishtachar' squads introduced by the Delhi Police aim to enhance women's safety in public spaces. These squads conduct regular patrols and collaborate with the public to prevent harassment cases effectively.

Another notable initiative is the PM-YUVA 3.0 scheme, targeting young authors below the age of 30. This scheme promotes reading, writing, and the book culture in India, aligning with the National Education Policy 2020.

Major Policy Changes

Policy changes significantly impact the nation’s trajectory. The implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM) in New Delhi aims to improve primary healthcare services by establishing Urban Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and upgrading mohalla clinics.

Additionally, the partnership between UIDAI and Sarvam AI seeks to enhance Aadhaar services through AI-powered solutions, including voice interactions and real-time fraud detection.

International Current Affairs

Global Summits and Agreements

International summits and agreements shape global relations. India’s assumption of the BRICS presidency in December 2024 focuses on digital cooperation and sustainable development.

Furthermore, India signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the United Kingdom in early 2024, boosting bilateral trade and investment.

International Conflicts and Resolutions

India has played a significant role in mediating international conflicts. In 2024, India successfully mediated talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia, contributing to regional stability in the Middle East.

Moreover, India launched the South Asian Intelligence Network to enhance regional cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts.

Economic and Financial Updates

Budget Announcements

Budget announcements provide insights into the government's fiscal policies. The Indian Ministry of Defence signed a contract worth ₹1,982 crore with Bharat Electronics Limited for the procurement of the Akashteer system, enhancing the Indian Army’s air defence capabilities.

Stock Market Trends

Stock market trends reflect the economic health of a nation. In recent times, Indian researchers developed a highly efficient hydrogen fuel cell, potentially revolutionizing clean energy production and storage, which could influence stock markets focusing on renewable energy sectors.

Science and Technology Developments

Space Missions and Discoveries

India's space endeavors have garnered global attention. ISRO announced plans for a Venus orbiter mission, named Shukrayaan-1, scheduled for launch in 2025.

Additionally, Chandrayaan-3 successfully landed on the Moon’s south pole in August 2023, making India the first country to achieve this feat.

Technological Innovations

Technological advancements are pivotal for national progress. Tata Electronics launched India’s first indigenously developed microprocessor for smartphones, marking a significant step in electronics manufacturing.

Moreover, Indian scientists achieved long-distance quantum key distribution, enhancing secure communication capabilities.

Online Platforms for Current Affairs Preparation

The Role of Khan Global Studies

When it comes to mastering current affairs, Khan Global Studies has emerged as a reliable and resourceful platform. Whether you're preparing for UPSC, SSC, Banking, or State PCS exams, this website offers a curated compilation of daily, weekly, and monthly current affairs that cater directly to the evolving pattern of competitive examinations.

What sets Khan Global Studies apart is its clear categorisation and regular updates, which allow aspirants to focus on national, international, economic, and science related developments without wading through irrelevant information. Each news event is contextualised with background and implications helping students not only memorise facts but also understand their significance in a broader perspective.

The Current Affairs MCQs section is particularly valuable, giving users a real-time way to test their retention and application skills. It simulates actual exam conditions and boosts confidence through self-assessment. Topics like governance, geopolitics, and environmental policy are frequently featured, making it a one stop solution for holistic preparation.

Furthermore, their focus on Hindi and English medium students ensures inclusivity, helping lakhs of aspirants across India. The use of infographics, PDFs, and structured revision notes makes it student-friendly and time efficient.

How to Make the Best Use of Khan Global Studies

Daily Practice: Start your morning with their daily current affairs quiz and read the article summary for each event.

Weekly Revision: Use the weekly compilations to consolidate what you’ve learned.

Monthly Capsules: Ideal for revision before the exam these neatly packed updates cover all essential events.

Mock Tests: Their mock tests help gauge exam readiness, especially when you’re targeting prelims.

Focus on Analysis: Don’t just read; try to understand why an event happened, its consequences, and who it impacts.

Originally published at http://kgsupsc.wordpress.com on May 5, 2025.

#current affairs today #upsc current affairs #current affairs #daily current affairs

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