Disney World adds Avatar Land

“Two great tastes that taste great together.” That was the Reeses’s Peanut Butter Cup’s slogan thirty-plus years ago. And they’re right … who doesn’t enjoy peanut butter and chocolate (unless you’re allergic)?

Courtesy Google Images

When I saw a news report that Disney was going to create an attraction based on James Cameron’s Avatar my first thought was, “Two great tastes that taste great together.”

I love Disney World in Orlando, FL. When we visit the in-laws in Dade City, FL, we make a point to get to Disney World for at least one day. (My bride’s favorite park is EPCOT; mine is Disney Hollywood Studios.)

I really enjoyed Avatar. (I’m looking forward to the three sequels … the first being Avatar 2 in 2016.) I like the world that Cameron created and when the movie ended, I wanted to know more about Pandora and its people and culture.

The expansion of the Avatar lore will be furthered explored in a series of books by Steven Charles Gould (author of the Jumper series). According to avatarmovie.com James Cameron has tapped “… noted science fiction author Steven Charles Gould to write four novels base upon Avatar and its three sequels.”

Courtesy Google Images

And now Disney and Avatar will be joined … just like peanut butter and chocolate. The Avatar attraction will become a part of Animal Kingdom. According to FOX NEWS, it will be the largest expansion in the history of the park.

Of all the Disney World parks in Orlando, Animal Kingdom is my least favorite. I think it’s claustrophobic. The main walks are lined with vegetation and if you happen to be going “upstream” when a show lets out, the mass of humanity coming at you can be overwhelming.

WDWMAGIC.com reports that Avatar Land is expected to open in 2016. The addition of Avatar Land might just be enough to entice me to return to Animal Kingdom.

Anyone interested in planning a trip to Orlando in 2016? Take me with you.

Snow Fun

The first day of winter is December 21st but as New Englanders, we are all too aware that the seasons don’t pay attention to the calendar. It’s just as likely to snow in October (2011 ring a bell?) as it is in December. Therefore, it’s not too early to think about winter preparedness.

We have our generator in place (finally got that hooked up) so we won’t be powerless for an extended period of time. Now, it’s time to focus on a snow blower.

I had a 2003, Toro, 6.5 HP snow thrower. I abused that thing and not in a bad way. That snow thrower got me through the winter of 2010-2011. Remember that winter? It seemed like it snowed every other day. The piles of snow bordering my driveway were up to my chest. But that little Toro performed admirably. It finally died on February 9, 2013, the day after an epic snowfall. Unfortunately, I had just started clearing the driveway and had to finish with shovels (fortunately, the kids were visiting so I wasn’t stuck shoveling by my lonesome).

I discovered there are a lot of snow blowers on the market, such as Honda, Cub Cadet, Toro  Craftsman, Ariens, Husqvarna and Snapper. I had no preconceived notions regarding the manufacturer. All I knew was I wanted something capable of clearing 6 – 8 inches of snow.

Ariens - Courtesy Google Images

I am not an expert when it comes to anything with an engine. I pretty much rely on the opinions/knowledge of friends and online comparison sites, such as Consumer Reports and Top Snow Blowers.

I evaluated the posted opinions of purported snow blower users and compared prices and reliability reports of various brands.

Cost was a huge factor. I wanted reliability but I didn’t want to “break the bank” getting it. I narrowed it down to the Ariens Compact 24 inch Two-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower and the Toro Power Max 724 OE 24 inch Two-Stage Electric Start Gas Snow Blower. They were comparable in price and performance.

My New Toro

I settled on the Toro for two reasons.

1) The performance and reliability of my previous Toro
2) Toro’s S’NO Risk™ Guarantee
According to Toro.com, “If it snows less than 10% of your market's average this winter, you get your money back and you keep your Toro snowblower.
If it snows less than 50% of your market's average, you get a 10% refund and keep your Toro snowblower.”

Considering how much I despise winter and snow, I have a dual incentive to root for a mild winter.

Check out this short video for a fellow who found an interesting snow removal tool.

Fall 2013 Science FictionTV to Watch

The best show on TV … I’ve heard this from many different sources; my kids, some co-workers, my friends and television pundits. No … not Breaking Bad … The Walking Dead. The fourth season of The Walking Dead premieres on Sunday, 10/13/13 and I’m somewhat ashamed to admit I’ve yet to watch an episode. I’d always thought it was a show about zombies and I’ve never been a big fan of zombie movies because I’m not a big fan of gore. I can only recall watching two zombie movies: Warm Bodies (2013) and Shaun of the Dead (2004).

Many people have told me that The Walking Dead is less about zombies and more about more about relationships. Is this accurate? I don’t know, but I like character driven shows so I guess I’m going to have to get caught up via Netflix.

I probably watch way too much TV and the following are four science fiction shows that I plan to follow this season so I doubt I can fit in another show, even one as allegedly good as The Walking Dead.

Courtesy Google Images

1. Revolution, NBC, 2nd season debut 9/25/13
Revolution takes place fifteen years after a world-wide blackout. The U.S government has collapsed, and multiple factions are vying for control of the country. I like this show because no character is safe. During the last few weeks of the spring 2013 season two main characters got terminated. I think it adds an element of suspense when the viewer isn’t certain who will survive.

Courtesy Google Images

2. Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D, ABC, 1st season debut 9/24/13
This show takes place after the battle for New York in the 2012 movie, The Avengers. Agent Coulson (Clark Gregg) leads a section of the Strategic Homeland Intervention, Enforcement and Logistics Division. Their mission seems to be hunting down powerful artifacts and potentially dangerous individuals before said items or persons can menace society.

I’ve seen two shows. I think there’s room for the show to grow. I’m not certain if the show’s creators plan to focus on action and gizmos or character development. I hope they opt for character development and allow the “tech” to supplement the story not drive it.  But, since the show is part of the Marvel universe and is directed by Joss Whedon I’m willing to give it a little leeway.

Courtesy Google Images

3. Arrow, CW, 2nd season debut 10/9/13
Oliver Queen (Stephen Amell) has returned to Starling City after being stranded on an island for five years. He assumes the guise of the vigilante the Arrow (Arrow is Green Arrow of DC Comics). The show has grown on me. It has gotten better with age; the creators have allowed for growth in the characters of Arrow and Oliver Queen.

Courtesy Google Images

4. Grimm, NBC, 3rd season debut 10/25/13
A detective, Nick Burkhardt (David Giuntoli) discovers he is the descendant from a long line of Grimms, hunters of creatures that come straight out of the Grimm Fairy Tales. I like the show; there’s ample suspense and construction of character relationships and the continuing story arc links each episode. It makes me want to come back next week to find out what happened.

I think the four shows I’ve presented are worth a view. But, I probably watch too much TV as it is so I ask you … should I make room for another show and add The Walking Dead to my viewing line-up?

Does anyone wish to share a show they’re looking forward to? (It doesn’t have to be science fiction.)

The Devil You Know - Episode X

WHAT’S GONE BEFORE: In Episode IX Videl informs Barney that he has discovered Barney’s deception.

Artwork Credit: Matt Ryan

“Wait, are you saying if you beat the Devil you have to work for the Devil?” Barney asked.

“Not quite,” replied Videl. “I’m saying, you beat the Devil you become the Devil.”

Barney was stunned. He was certain he had misheard Videl.

Videl continued, “Throughout the ages, many men and women have assumed the role of the Devil. You’ll just be another in the line of succession.”

“I never agreed to this,” complained Barney.

“It was implied when you opted to craft your own agreement.” Videl flipped the pages of the guidebook. “It’s in here.”

“That’s not fair. I didn’t know it existed.”

“You didn’t ask.”

“Because I didn’t know.”

“No one can possibly know everything where the Devil is concerned. In all that literature you consulted, did you read anything that indicated anyone has ever won? You may have beaten me . . . but you did not win!”

“I won’t do it,” Barney avowed.

Videl nodded knowingly. “Oh, at first you’ll try to shirk your responsibilities; we all did. But, trust me; it’s not a viable option.” Videl paused and shuddered. “The pain will be excruciating.” He lowered his voice, “It’s like nothing you’ve ever imagined. The more you fight, the more intense the agony.

“Eventually, you’ll immerse yourself in the . . . role. Each new soul decreases your pain and increases your pleasure until you’ll manage to relegate thoughts of your former life to the depths of your unconscious mind. You’ll revel in your conquests until you become wholly and solely the Devil.

“But the desire to return to a normal human lies at the periphery, waiting for that moment of reclamation. I’ve been watching you for a very long time, Barney. I knew you had the potential to be my One when you acquiesced to Dirk so easily.” Videl nodded his head. “It was time.”

“But,” stammered Barney, “I’m a child; an innocent.”

“Ha, young you may be but”—Videl’s eyes widened—“innocent you are not.”

“I’ve never harmed anyone,” said Barney.

“What about Dirk and his friends? You never once considered their fate.”

“That was you.”

“At your behest.” Videl pressed, “Do you care about their families’ anguish? Their friends? You never asked what happened to them.”

“I’ve been busy with school; I didn’t even go home for the summer; I’ve been out of touch.”

“Excuses. Truth is, you don’t care. You got what you wanted and everything else be damned. You will make a fine successor.”

Barney’s shoulders slumped. He hadn’t given a thought about Dirk or his friends. That doesn’t make me . . . evil?

Artwork Credit: Matt Ryan

Barney hardly noticed that Raz walked past Videl and took up station to Barney’s right, a few paces behind. He wouldn’t have even noted the handoff had he not felt a slight tingle travel from his hand though his entire body when his fingers wrapped around the guidebook’s binding.

He felt dampness on his hand; the snow was falling and the wind picked up as the temperature dropped. The winter thaw ended as abruptly as it had begun.

Pain began to radiate through Barney’s body as Videl strode away. He watched each step until Videl wasn’t even a pinprick on the horizon. He waited for a flash of light or a puff of smoke but it never occurred; Videl just disappeared and Barney knew it would be forever this time.

END – THE DEVIL YOU KNOW

Barney was so close to attaining his dream but when you play with fire… well, you know the rest.

Did you enjoy The Devil You Know? Please, let me know what you think.

The Devil You Know - Episode IX

WHAT’S GONE BEFORE: In Episode VIII Barney seals the deal with Videl and enrolls at M.I.T.

Attired in baggy cargo shorts, a tee and sandals, Barney lagged behind a pack of students making their way to morning classes. He was lost in thought as he strolled along the path…

Barney heard from behind, “Pretty proud of yourself?”

He smiled. He had been expecting this visit. “Yeah.” He turned to face Videl. Raz stood behind the Devil to the right.

“Still wearing the sunglasses,” purred Videl.

“Figured I’d be seein’ you,” quipped Barney.

“Did, huh?”

Artwork Credit: Matt Ryan

“When did you figure it out?”

“This morning. When Raz brought it to my attention. I,” Videl paused, “realized things were going to change. That little caveat you buried in the EEA . . . magnificent!”

Barney stood a bit more erect; his shoulders pushed back. “I know, I wrote it!”

Videl hummed briefly. “So you’re enjoying school.”

“I’m not treated like some freak of nature here. I’m able to concentrate on my studies. I’m triple majoring.”

“A triple major,” Videl nodded appreciably. “Impressive. It would have been interesting to see you accomplish that feat.”

“Of course I’ll accomplish it,” Barney sneered. “I have a four-point-oh.”

“You had a good run here. You got to experience what you always longed for; that’s more than most people three times your age can say.”

Barney stepped closer to Videl, “I don’t know what you’re playing at, but I won; you lost. Go away!”

Videl chuckled. “You are so naïve. Do you think you’re the first person to beat the Devil?”

“What are you babbling about?” Barney widened his stance.

Videl exhaled slowly and smiled. “People have been making deals with the Devil for centuries. Napoleon, Hitler, Madoff; they all had one thing in common; they thought they could outsmart Beelzebub.

“But,” Videl paused to reflect. He pressed his palms and fingertips together and tapped the outside of his index fingers against his lips. “Every couple centuries, there comes someone who actually does it.”

“It sounds like you’re happy you lost,” said a confused Barney.

“Happy?” started Videl. “I’m ecstatic. I’ve been doing this for a very long time.” He sighed.

“So, you’ve been a good little soul snatcher. Hooray for you.” Barney twirled in index finger. “What’s your point?”

“You’re bright; I suspect you’ll figure out the rules quicker than any of us.”

“Rules?”

“Yes, rules. I have to do everything in my power to collect souls to keep the fires of Hades burning. My staff and I scour the earth for souls. Once they’re identified, I close the deal. I have no choice.

“It’s all in here.” Videl held up an ancient looking book.

“What’s that?” asked Barney.

“This?” Videl held the text in an outstretched hand. “This is the guidebook. A few centuries ago, I stood where you are, on the cusp of greatness. I had grand aspirations. I was an accomplished violinist. I practiced and practiced but my skills only allowed me to get so far. I had about resigned myself to that fact when I met a woman who promised me everything. I didn’t like the deal she offered, so I convinced her to let me write my own. It was . . . brilliant; I was brilliant.” Videl stared into space, lost in a momentary reverie. “That’s the way it works.”

“Wait, are you saying if you beat the Devil you have to work for the Devil?”

END – EPISODE IX

In next week’s finale we discover Videl’s true intent. Is Barney as smart as he thought?

The Devil You Know - Episode VIII

WHAT’S GONE BEFORE: In Episode VII Barney constructs a contract that he believes will allow him to get what he wants without giving up his soul.

Artwork Credit: Matt Ryan

He turned to find Videl, attired in a black suit, standing in the center of the bathroom. Behind him another man stood to his right. Slight of build and several inches shorter than Videl, the other man had thinning grey hair combed straight back. A leather briefcase dangled from his left hand.

“What’s with the shades?” queried Videl.

“Like ’em?”

“Not particularly.”

“I don’t want anyone reaching into my inner spirit. Who’s he?” Barney nodded at the briefcase bearer.

“That’s Raz. He’s my legal counsel.” Videl smirked.

Barney chuckled. “Legal counsel? What do you need a lawyer for?”

“To be sure everything conforms to convention. It’s not as if there aren’t an abundance of barristers where I come from. Do you have it?”

Artwork Credit: Matt Ryan

Barney handed the flash drive to Videl who passed it to Raz who plugged it into an electronic tablet. An awkward silence followed as Videl’s attorney reviewed the electronic document. Finally, Raz handed the tablet to Videl.

“Well,” he demanded. Raz uttered a sound that was barely audible. Videl’s eyes widened, “Really?” he said to which Raz blinked once.

“Impressive,” stated Videl. “Raz says it’s the best EEA he’s ever seen.”

“You got all that from a grunt and a wink?” Barney raised an eyebrow.

“It was a very meaningful grunt. He wants me to offer you a job.”

“Think I’ll pass,” said Barney. “Do we have a deal or not?”

“I prefer to look my clients in the eye when I consummate a deal.”

“Do we have a deal or do I walk?” countered Barney.

“Not much for small talk. Fine, we have a deal.” Videl pressed his thumb against the tablet’s screen and handed it to Barney. Before he signed, Barney scanned the document to ensure Videl had not made any alterations. Satisfied, he applied his thumbprint to the appropriate spot and handed the tablet to Videl who handed it back to Raz.

“We’re done?” queried Barney.

“We’re done,” replied Videl. “See you in 80 or 90 years.”

Barney turned for the door. “Not if I see you first,” he quipped. He didn’t expect a reply; he knew Videl had already vanished.

***

It was an unseasonably warm February morning. New England had been in the grasp of a Nor ’Easter that was predicted to last a few more days. However, Boston had been spared. While the majority of New Englanders were cursing their decision to live in the North East, Beantown was enjoying seventy-plus-degree weather. Forecasters were at a loss to explain the phenomenon.

Attired in baggy cargo shorts, a tee and sandals, Barney lagged behind a pack of students making their way to morning classes. He was lost in thought as he strolled along the path. Edward Witten’s most recent revelation regarding String Theory swirled through his mind. Barney had been on the M.I.T. campus for a little more than a year. On a daily basis, he interfaced with people of equal intellect and no one made fun of him or bullied him; he was living his dream. In all his nearly twelve years, he had never felt so stimulated.

From behind he heard, “Pretty proud of yourself?”

END – EPISODE VIII

Barney thought he was rid of Videl. Come back and find out what Videl is angling for.

The Devil You Know - Episode VII

WHAT’S GONE BEFORE: In Episode VI Videl agrees to allow Barney to craft an Even Exchange Agreement.

“I’ll tell you what. I like you, so I’ll give you one week to draft an acceptable agreement. If you haven’t done so by then, you will sign this.” Videl held up the electronic tablet and extended an index finger into the air. “One week….”

And then Videl was gone.

A week wasn’t much time. Barney studied literature, opera and movies that pertained to dealings with the Devil. He ascertained that the Devil had high intellect and immense linguistic prowess. No atrocity was too heinous if it helped him achieve the Devil’s goals.

Barney read the Essentials of Contract Law and consulted the online Harvard Law Library. He barely ate. He didn’t sleep; he focused on creating the perfect contract.

His newly transformed mother knocked on his locked bedroom door and begged him to get out for fresh air. “You need to relax, Honey.”

“This will determine my future,” he said.

“Nonsense, you’re ten.”

Eventually she gave up and left Barney to draft his contract. On the seventh day, bleary eyed but relaxed, Barney pushed back from his desk. He was certain he had done it; he had written an EEA that would grant him everything he wanted, less any of the ghastly consequences. He was going to do what no one else had ever done; he was going to beat the Devil.

***

Barney got to school early. He had no inkling where the meeting would take place. He had a copy of the EEA on his thumb drive and another on the hard drive of his laptop.

The atmosphere at the school was muted. It had been a week since Dirk and his cronies had been seen. The boys’ parents had pooled their resources, offering a substantial reward for any information leading to the safe return of their children. Barney had a fleeting moment of guilt when he saw the tear-stained face of Dirk’s mother on television.

Law enforcement personnel postulated that the teens had left school grounds in Dirk’s Land Rover, since it had not been found on the Goethe campus. The missing Land Rover could not be located. Barney wondered what Videl had done with the jocks. Not that he cared. He decided they probably got what they deserved.

Barney made for a restroom. The moment the door closed behind him he noted a silence. The clamor of Goethe High did not penetrate the stillness of the bathroom. He opened the door a fraction and

Artwork Credit: Matt Ryan

was hit by a wave of heat. He reached into his pocket and donned a stylish pair of mirrored sunglasses. He turned to find Videl, attired in a black suit, standing in the center of the bathroom. Behind him another man stood to his right. Slight of build and several inches shorter than Videl, the other man had thinning grey hair combed straight back. A leather briefcase dangled from his left hand.

END – EPISODE VII

Barney’s got the EEA … will Videl be satisfied? Only way to find out is come back next week.