by Ner Tamid | Aug 10, 2025 | Sermons
A very, very, very long time ago, when I was growing up, there was virtually no funny Jewish video content being produced. It’s hard to believe but there was a time before Reggie_Torahshorts and Dovi Neuburger were producing daily content. There were a few, very few, exceptions – some Jews who were a little ahead of their time – who made videos like, Stuff People say on Pesach (I still watch this video every year before Pesach, and it still cracks me up). The other prehistoric video content from that era was Shtick People say at Shiva Houses. The genius of these videos is that for the most part, they were just saying things people say on Pesach or at Shiva homes. They weren’t making jokes, they were just highlighting how insane we sound, and when it comes to shiva houses, how tactless people can be.
People ask things like, “So… how did he die?” Or “Stop crying, she’s with her husband now.” Or “I think the chair you’re sitting on might be a little too high. Should we measure it?”
Let’s be honest, shiva houses can be quite awkward. What do I say? What do I say? What do I say? “Uh, I love the wallpaper!”
And because they’re so awkward, people tend to do one of two things, they don’t show up at shiva houses, or they speak about weather, world news, pickleball, anything except the deceased.
There are two Shiva house halachos that are worth reviewing. One, we wait for the mourner to speak first. And what if they don’t speak? That’s. Okay. We just sit there.
The other rule is that we are supposed to speak about the deceased; about their accomplishments, about what they did in their lives, about their legacy.
Both these halachos are encapsulated in the term we use for visiting a mourner – Nichum Aveilim. It’s translated as comforting the mourner, but what this term Nichum really means, explains Rav Samson Raphael Hirsh, is to shift one’s attention, to turn. And that’s because what we are doing when we visit the broken and lonely mourner is we are trying to shift their attention. Not to distract them with small talk and jokes. Not to remove the pain, there is no way to do so. Rather, they are feeling utterly alone, and by being there, even if we do not say anything, we are conveying to the mourner that they are not entirely alone, that there are people in the community who are with them. We say yes, you’re in pain, you’re alone, AND we are here with you.
They feel like their loved one is gone forever, and by reflecting on the deceased’s life, we remind them that their loved one also left behind a rich legacy that can be perpetuated by all who knew them. We say yes, they are gone, AND they accomplished so much.
We don’t need to be afraid of a shiva house. It’s cliché but I know from all the many mourners here that it is true – the greatest present is your presence. And you don’t need to be a great conversationalist to make a shiva call. “Tell me about your loved one.” And then sit back and listen.
Nechama, comfort, does not take place by ignoring pain. It comes about through a shift in perspective.
The reason I bring this up is, well, it’s critical that we visit people who are visiting shiva and we ensure that the visits are meaningful. But also, because this Shabbos is known as Shabbos Nachamu. It’s that same word – comfort, but also to shift perspectives. A week ago, we sat on the floor and mourned all the losses we experienced over two thousand years; the Batei Mikdash, the terror, the inquisitions, the Holocaust. And today, a mere six days later, we are supposed to celebrate. Shabbos Nachamu is supposed to be a joyous day. In our Haftorah, Yeshaya soothingly proclaims, “Nachamu, nachamu, ami! Be comforted, my people!”
How can we be comforted? The Bais HaMikdash is still unbuilt, the Jewish People are still not unified, there are still hostages in Gaza. Comfort? Really?
And the answer is yes. The sad realities have not changed, but G-d is asking us to now shift our gaze as He tells us, “I will one day redeem you. I may seem so distant, but I have not forgotten you.” On this Shabbos, G-d is performing Nichum Aveilim to us; He’s reminding us to not despair, to choose to look at the survival of the Jewish People and not the sacrifices, to choose to see how much we’ve progressed as a people and not how far we still have to go, to choose to see the fulfillment of so many positive prophecies even though some have yet to come true.
And this is not a one-day exercise, it takes place every day. Because there are two types of Jews in the world; Tisha B’av Jews and there are Nachamu Jews.
Tisha B’av Jews are always focused on what’s broken, on what’s missing, on all the things that have not gone their way.
Nachamu Jews are not those slightly-annoying-everything-is-awesome-let’s put-on-a-fake-smile-type of person. No. Nachamu Jews do not pretend that every story has a happy ending, or that the Jewish People are perfect, or that their spouse or children have no flaws. No.
Nachamu Jews say, yes, there are issues AND I chose to focus on what is good, on what is beautiful, on what I have. I could complain, it’s easy to complain, criticism is far more clickable than compliments, but I chose to focus on the good.
In our kitchen, we have a magnet on our fridge. Literally, one magnet. Some people deck their fridge in tens of magnets and pictures and notes, but we are minimalists (some may call it a neurosis) and the front of our fridge has nothing except one magnet. On the magnet it says, “Liftoach mikarer, zeh olam um’lo’o, to open a refrigerator, it’s the whole world.”
These words were uttered by Eli Sharabi, a husband and father of two daughters, who was kidnapped from Be’eri on October 7th. He spent almost 500 days in captivity. When he returned, he looked like he had just been liberated from Auschwitz. He spent most of his time in captivity chained by his leg. He ate almost nothing and lost 66 pounds, or 40% of his body weight while in captivity.
As bad as that was, nothing prepared him for the devastating news that he learned when he was released. Shortly after exiting Gaza, he was informed that his wife and two daughters were murdered by Hamas on October 7th.
This man lived through a modern-day Tisha B’av and yet, he was and is a Nachamu Jew.
When asked about learning the horrific news about his family, he said he was grateful for the 18 years that he had with his beloved wife, Lianne. When asked about the starvation, he said, yes, it was horrific, and now I open my fridge ad it’s filled with food, “Liftoach mikarer, zeh olam um’lo’o, to open a refrigerator, it’s the whole world.”
The Bais Hamikdash is still destroyed, our family members get on our nerves or worse, our friends don’t always support like us they should, and G-d feels like He is ignoring us.
Those are all 100% true.
And yet, we can decide to be a Nachamu Jew, not only this Shabbos, but every day.
To choose to look at the positive trends in Jewish history and say I am so proud to be a Jew.
To choose to see the incredible qualities that our family members possess and embrace them.
To choose to see G-d in our every waking breath.
To be a Tisha B’av Jew or a Nachamu Jew, the choice is ours.
by montessori | Aug 9, 2025 | Uncategorized
Il settore dei giochi d’azzardo online sta attraversando una fase di rapida evoluzione, spinta da innovazioni tecnologiche e da un mercato sempre più competitivo e globale. In questo contesto, le offerte di bonus slot senza deposito di 10 euro non AAMS rappresentano un’opportunità interessante sia per i giocatori che per gli operatori. Questi bonus, generalmente esclusi dalla regolamentazione italiana, stanno crescendo in popolarità grazie a nuove strategie di marketing e a un panorama legale in evoluzione a livello internazionale. In questo articolo, analizziamo le principali tendenze di mercato e le innovazioni che stanno ridefinendo questa nicchia di offerte, soffermandoci su aspetti normativi, tecnologici e di personalizzazione per offrire una panoramica completa e aggiornata.
Analisi delle evoluzioni recenti nel settore dei bonus slot senza deposito
Come le normative internazionali influenzano le strategie di offerta
Il panorama globale dei giochi online vede un parziale allentamento delle normative relative ai bonus senza deposito, in particolare quelli di 10 euro non AAMS, che vengono offerti da operatori con licenze estere. La crescente domanda di tali promozioni ha spinto molte aziende a sviluppare strategiche diversificate, sfruttando le regolamentazioni più permissive in paesi come Malta, Gibilterra, e Curaçao. Tuttavia, questa libertà normativa comporta rischi e opportunità: da un lato, permette innovazioni rapide e offerte più flessibili; dall’altro, richiede attenzione al rispetto delle normative locali, per evitare sanzioni o problemi legati alla trasparenza.
Impatto delle tecnologie emergenti sulla distribuzione dei bonus
Le tecnologie digitali consentono una distribuzione più mirata e automatizzata dei bonus. Grazie a sistemi di intelligenza artificiale e machine learning, gli operatori sono in grado di offrire bonus personalizzati in tempo reale, rispondendo alle preferenze e ai comportamenti dei singoli utenti. Ad esempio, un giocatore che preferisce slot con determinate caratteristiche può ricevere automaticamente bonus più adatti al suo stile di gioco, aumentando così la probabilità di fidelizzazione e di coinvolgimento.
Adattamenti delle piattaforme di gioco alle nuove esigenze dei giocatori globali
Le piattaforme online stanno integrando funzionalità multilanguage, metodi di pagamento internazionali e interfacce ottimizzate per dispositivi mobili, per rispondere alle richieste di un pubblico globale sempre più diversificato. La compatibilità con sistemi di pagamento locali e con criptovalute rappresenta un esempio di come le aziende si stiano adattando alle nuove abitudini di consumo legate a offerte di bonus senza deposito, facilitando accesso e fruizione su scala mondiale.
Nuove modalità di personalizzazione delle promozioni senza deposito
Utilizzo di dati comportamentali per offerte mirate
La raccolta e l’analisi dei dati comportamentali rappresentano una leva strategica centrale. Tramite cookies, sessioni di login e tracciamento delle preferenze di gioco, gli operatori raccolgono informazioni dettagliate sulle abitudini degli utenti. Questi dati vengono poi sfruttati per creare promozioni su misura, come bonus di 10 euro senza deposito pensati per specifici segmenti di giocatori. Ad esempio, un giocatore che predilige slot a bassa volatilità potrebbe ricevere bonus che incentivano il suo stile, aumentando l’engagement e la retention.
Integrazione di bonus dinamici basati sulla cronologia di gioco
I bonus dinamici sono offerte che variano in funzione dell’attività pregressa del giocatore. Se un utente accumula un certo volume di gioco o raggiunge obiettivi specifici, può ricevere bonus personalizzati come integrazione ai bonus di partenza. Questa strategia favorisce un’esperienza di gioco più coinvolgente e permette alle piattaforme di mantenere alta l’attenzione sul cliente, riducendo il rischio di abbandono.
Innovazioni nelle comunicazioni personalizzate con i clienti
Le aziende stanno adottando soluzioni di Customer Relationship Management (CRM) avanzate, integrate con chatbot e notifiche push, per comunicare in modo diretto e tempestivo le promozioni. Ad esempio, un giocatore potrebbe ricevere un messaggio con un’offerta di bonus di 10 euro senza deposito subito dopo aver effettuato una sessione di gioco prolungata, incentivandolo a ritornare. La personalizzazione delle comunicazioni si traduce in maggiore efficacia delle promozioni e in un’esperienza utente più umana e coinvolgente.
Innovazioni tecnologiche che ridefiniscono l’esperienza di bonus slot
Implementazione di intelligenza artificiale per ottimizzare le offerte
L’uso dell’intelligenza artificiale permette di analizzare enormi quantità di dati e di prevedere le preferenze dei giocatori con grande precisione. Sistemi di AI possono monitorare il comportamento in tempo reale e proporre bonus su misura, aumentando la probabilità di conversione e di fidelizzazione. Una ricerca condotta nel 2023 indica che le piattaforme che impiegano AI per personalizzare le offerte hanno registrato un incremento del 30% nelle slot senza deposito attivate rispetto alle metodologie tradizionali. Per approfondire, puoi visitare dragonia casino.
Utilizzo di blockchain per garantire trasparenza e sicurezza
La tecnologia blockchain viene sempre più considerata per creare un ambiente di gioco sicuro e trasparente. Attraverso smart contracts, gli operatori possono assicurare che i bonus siano distribuiti correttamente e che le regole siano chiare e immutabili. Inoltre, le transazioni in criptovaluta offrono maggior anonimato e rapidità, facilitando l’accesso a bonus come quello di 10 euro senza deposito anche in mercati con restrizioni normative più stringenti.
Adattamento alle piattaforme mobili e alle app di gioco
Con oltre il 70% delle sessioni di gioco che avvengono su smartphone, le piattaforme devono ottimizzare l’esperienza mobile. Gli sviluppatori integrano sistemi di notifiche push, interfacce responsive e funzionalità di offerta in-app, per rendere più immediato e efficace il ricevimento di bonus senza deposito. Questa attenzione alla user experience ha contribuito a far crescere del 25% le richieste di bonus di 10 euro su dispositivi mobili nel 2023.
by montessori | Aug 3, 2025 | Uncategorized
In recent years, the boundary between storytelling and interactive entertainment has blurred significantly. Modern gamers demand more than simple mechanics; they seek immersive worlds that challenge their perceptions and offer complex narratives akin to acclaimed science fiction literature and cinema. As the industry pushes toward ever more engaging experiences, the integration of innovative storytelling techniques becomes paramount, especially within genres that explore extraterrestrial encounters and alien invasions.
Emergence of Sci-Fi and Alien Invasion Themes in Gaming
One of the most compelling subgenres in interactive entertainment is the sci-fi alien invasion scenario. This theme resonates deeply because it taps into societal anxieties, scientific curiosity, and the allure of the unknown. Titles like Halo, XCOM, and Prey exemplify how developers craft worlds where humanity faces existential threats from extraterrestrial forces, blending high-octane action with rich lore.
According to industry data, the global video game market for sci-fi titles has experienced consistent growth, accounting for approximately 24% of all genre-specific sales in 2022, driven by advancements in VR and AR that heighten immersion. These thematic choices are not merely for spectacle; they serve as allegories for real-world issues such as technological upheaval, authoritarianism, and existential risk.
The Power of Narrative Depth in Alien Invasion Games
While spectacle remains vital, the most celebrated titles incorporate layered storytelling that invites players into a fully realised universe. Developers employ advanced AI, procedural storytelling, and environmental storytelling to craft worlds that react to player choices, creating a personalized experience with emotional resonance.
“Storytelling is the backbone of immersive gaming; it turns binary mechanics into meaningful journeys.” — Dr. Elizabeth Harper, Game Narrative Specialist.
For nuanced explorations of this storytelling evolution, see Pirots 4: alien invasion, which exemplifies innovative approaches to designing complex narratives set within alien invasion scenarios, emphasizing player agency and unpredictable alien interactions.
Technological Innovations Elevating Alien Invasion Experiences
Enhanced graphics engines like Unreal Engine 5 and advanced physics simulations underpin the realism and visceral impact of modern titles. Volumetric lighting, ray tracing, and realistic sound design all contribute to convincing alien worlds and otherworldly encounters.
Comparison of Key Technologies in Alien Invasion Games (2023)
| Technology |
Impact |
Example Titles |
| Ray Tracing & Real-Time Lighting |
Creates ultra-realistic alien environments |
Alien: Isolation, Star Citizen |
| Procedural World Generation |
Ensures unique player experience |
No Man’s Sky, the recent update for Pirots 4: alien invasion |
| Artificial Intelligence & Dynamic Narratives |
Allows adaptive storytelling based on player choices |
Mass Effect series, Pirots 4: alien invasion |
Emerging Trends and Future Directions
- VR Integration: Fully immersive alien invasion scenarios where players feel physically present with extraterrestrial threats.
- Cross-Media Storytelling: Expanding narratives to comics, novels, and immersive experiences that deepen world-building.
- AI-Driven Player Narratives: Utilizing machine learning to adapt alien behaviour and story arcs on the fly, heightening unpredictability.
Developers pushing the envelope in these directions are setting industry standards, creating experiences that are not just games but expansive, evolving universes. These innovations not only heighten realism and engagement but also push narrative sophistication forward.
Conclusion: The Significance of Credible Resources in Gaming Narrative Development
As the industry evolves, authoritative sources and innovative examples become essential for understanding the trajectory of immersive storytelling—particularly within genres like alien invasion. For instance, a recent exploration of narrative design principles can be found at Pirots 4: alien invasion, which demonstrates how game designers are harnessing new technologies and storytelling techniques to craft compelling, believable worlds. Such sources serve as invaluable references for developers, critics, and scholars aiming to advance both the art and science of interactive storytelling.
In sum, the future of sci-fi alien invasion gaming hinges on the synergy between technological innovation and narrative depth, a dynamic maintained through a foundation of credible, expert insights and pioneering projects.
by montessori | Aug 3, 2025 | Uncategorized
Milkywins Casino touts an enticing VIP programme designed to reward its most loyal players. However, as a discerning reviewer, I urge potential players to consider the implications of engaging with such a scheme, particularly regarding licensing, safety, and the oft-overlooked honesty of odds. The UK Gambling Commission (UKGC) regulates all gaming activities in the UK, and it is crucial to ensure that any platform, including milkywins, adheres to these regulations. This analysis will explore the merits and pitfalls of the VIP levels at Milkywins Casino, providing a critical overview of what players can expect.
The Verdict
The VIP programme at Milkywins Casino offers some appealing benefits, but it comes with caveats that players should not ignore. While the potential for exclusive bonuses and tailored experiences may seem attractive, the lack of transparency regarding the actual odds and withdrawal limits can be concerning. It is essential for players to weigh the pros and cons carefully before committing their time and money.
The Good
- Tiered Rewards: The VIP programme features multiple tiers, allowing players to progress based on their activity. Each tier unlocks additional benefits such as higher withdrawal limits and exclusive bonuses.
- Personal Account Manager: VIP players are often assigned a dedicated account manager, which can enhance customer service and support.
- Exclusive Promotions: Members can access unique promotions that are not available to regular players, potentially increasing their winning opportunities.
The Bad
- Lack of Transparency: Details regarding the actual odds and terms associated with VIP rewards are often vague. Players may find it challenging to understand the true value of the benefits they receive.
- High Wagering Requirements: Bonuses tied to VIP levels may come with steep wagering requirements, often around 35x, which can make it difficult to withdraw winnings.
- Withdrawal Limits: While higher tiers offer increased withdrawal limits, the specifics are often not clearly outlined. This can lead to frustrations when attempting to cash out.
The Ugly
Despite the allure of a VIP programme, there are significant pitfalls that players need to consider:
- Potential for Addiction: The allure of VIP rewards can lead to increased gambling, which may not be in the player’s best interest. Players must remain vigilant about their gambling habits.
- Marketing Tactics: Some casinos may use aggressive marketing to entice players into the VIP programme, often obscuring the true costs and requirements involved.
- Unclear Terms and Conditions: The terms associated with VIP programmes are often buried in lengthy documents, making it challenging for players to fully understand their rights and responsibilities.
| VIP Tier |
Benefits |
Wagering Requirements |
Withdrawal Limits |
| Bronze |
Basic rewards, occasional bonuses |
35x |
£1,000 |
| Silver |
Increased bonuses, personalised support |
30x |
£2,500 |
| Gold |
Exclusive promotions, higher withdrawal limits |
25x |
£5,000 |
| Platinum |
Top-tier bonuses, dedicated account manager |
20x |
£10,000 |
In summary, while the VIP levels at Milkywins Casino may offer attractive benefits, players should approach with caution. Understanding the full scope of the programme, including the fine print associated with bonuses and withdrawals, is crucial to making informed decisions. Always remember to gamble responsibly and know your limits.
by Ner Tamid | Aug 3, 2025 | Sermons
In the year 500, the Himyarites, a Yemenite kingdom, ruled over much of the Arabian Peninsula. The Arabian Peninsula consisted of modern Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, The UAE, Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait. It was an exceptionally powerful and wealthy kingdom, dominating the trade routes in the ancient world.
They were ruthless leaders and had no tolerance for any other faith groups in their empire. The first thing they did when they conquered any land was burn the churches and massacre the Christian population. We have historical records of the Himyarites killing thousands upon thousands of Christian civilians.
If we had lived in the year 500, I imagine, I hope, if we were to see evidence of such atrocities, we would respond fiercely, condemning the Himyarites for their actions. If we were to find out that they did indeed kill innocents, that they did indeed destroy all places of worship, we would be outraged.
But there’s a detail I forgot to share with you – the Himyarites were a Jewish kingdom. In the year 400, Abu Karib, their king, converted to Judaism. Inscriptions from that era throughout the country make it clear that the ruling class and likely many others were practicing Jews.
And with that, our reaction changes. We become a little more compassionate, curious. Maybe there’s more to this story? Maybe the Christians were persecuting the Jews first, and this was a reaction? Maybe it’s an exaggeration?
I know that was my reaction. When I learned they were Jews I saw them in a more protective light.
Someone hearing this may accuse me of having double standards.
And to those accusers, I say, yes, I have a double standard. I think about my fellow Jews in a different fashion. And I’m not ashamed of it.
If someone told me that my child committed a crime, heaven forbid, I would not hide my child from the authorities. But I would certainly not post criticisms against the child on social media. If there was a protest outside my child’s home, do you think I would join the protest? Of course not. It’s my child. And they may be guilty, but I also have a moral obligation, at the same time, to look out for them.
You probably know where I’m going with this –
Are there children in Gaza who are starving? Likely.
And even though this war was started by Hamas and is still going on because of Hamas, could the Israeli government do things differently that could help alleviate the situation, even though it’s not their fault? No one knows for sure. The news is dizzyingly confusing and has lost any shred of credibility. But is it possible that there are missteps or worse on the part of the Israeli government here? It is certainly possible. Jews are not perfect. Be it the Himyarite Kingdom or the Modern State of Israel, Jews are capable of doing horrific things.
But does that mean we should go ahead and write articles or write open letters criticizing the Israeli government?
To me, this seems to be the equivalent of protesting outside your child’s window. We have a moral obligation to protect our family. Your standing there protesting may be used by the prosecution against your own child. Which is exactly what the enemies of Israel are doing.
“Look at all the Jews who are calling this out!”
“We’re not antisemites! There are Jews who are saying the same things we are!”
And before you know it, the UK, France, and Canada, rally behind Palestinian nationhood and encourage Hamas to stop negotiating.
Public statements can possibly encourage antisemites around the world to attack Jews. Public protests can possibly encourage Hamas to hold on to power and not let the 50 hostages go to freedom. I would be petrified to speak out for the chance that my statement contributed in one small way to the death or prolonged captivity of one of my brothers or sisters.
To be clear, I am not saying that we should pretend Israel or the Jewish community is perfect and cover up our crimes. I am not saying that we should pretend issues do not exist in our communities, as some do say, “to prevent a Shanda.” If you are aware of a crime, if you are aware of someone who is a danger to society, even if it is your child, you must tell the authorities. But this is not that.
Was there a private letter sent to the Israeli government, or did it go straight to the press? Do we really know definitively what is happening in Gaza? And it really boils down to one question – if this was my son, if this was my daughter, would I be so quick to condemn?
***
But let’s now talk among ourselves – we’re here among family. Is the Israeli government perfect? No.
Is the desire to stay in power something that might influence the decisions made by political leaders? Yes.
Are there elements in Israeli society and the Israeli government who would like to remove all Arabs from Israel from the river to the sea? Yes, there are.
Does spilling blood, even when entirely justified, erode our sensitivity to life? Yes, sadly, it does.
Among ourselves, among family, we can and we must be honest.
Read Matti Friedman’s piece in the Free Press. Matti Friedman, for those who don’t know him, is one of Israel’s greatest defenders, and he is quite concerned about what Israel may be doing wrong in Gaza.
The Himyarite Kingdom is a cautionary tale – the one time we had power in the last 2000 years, we abused it. Today’s Haftorah is another cautionary tale of many – “Your princes are rebellious; they are companions of thieves,” roars Yeshaya. “Everyone loves bribes and runs after payments,” he screams. “They ignore the orphan and widow.” Power, warns Yeshaya, is the most intoxicating and addictive drug.
This is not to say that power is intrinsically evil. The idea that anyone who is in power is evil is a perverse and illogical idea that has taken the Western world by storm; it is one of the idiotic philosophies that fuels antizionism. Judaism does not believe power is evil. But it does believe that power is fraught with danger. Rav Soloveitchik, a fierce defender of the State of Israel, once wondered out loud what would have happened if the Jewish People had a kingdom in Medieval Europe. Would we have been different than our neighbors, or would we join the Christians and Muslims in their blood orgies?
The antisemites of the world do not need our help. Our brothers and sisters in Israel do. We need to think twice and three times and four times before publicly saying anything that can harm our family. But among brothers and among sisters, we must be honest with ourselves; we are fighting a just war, going above and beyond, but that does not mean we are perfect. We cannot allow ourselves to be infatuated with our strength nor self-righteous over our just cause. A healthy people are devastated by the death toll in Gaza, exaggerated or not. A healthy people introspect and recognize the blinding force of being in power.
***
Yeshaya finishes the prophecy we read this morning with one piece of hope – Tziyon b’mishpat tipadeh. That Zion will be redeemed with justice. Justice means to not abuse our power. And justice – as defined by Jewish ethics – also means to love our family fiercely, not to the exclusion of, but before we love others.
