#Arlington sheds

[maxellminidisc]

Still wild to me that despite being in the state of Texas, and originally based in Fort Worth (aka "where the west begins"), the National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum (formerly known as the Cowboys of Color Museum) cannot find steady funding or support. Tons of money gets poured into the Stockyards of Fort Worth for tourist trapping, but god forbid the one foundation trying to shed light and focus on providing a fuller picture with inclusion of the lives of Black, Native, Asian, and Latines in the US during the founding of "the American West" get any help. They've had to keep moving locations cause they can't make rent, and they JUST moved again this January to a location in Arlington. It cut cost on rent, but their display space is also now cut.

I hope if you're ever in the DFW, you pay the museum a visit and contribute with your ticket sale. And if you know of anyone who's able to afford it and willing to contribute to their ongoing 100 for $1000 campaign due to relocation and new preservation needs, send them this graphic or this link.

[lee-writes-things]

☆ the hawthorne brothers+ avery, max, libby, rebecca, and thea during the eras tour ☆

a/n: co-written by @nutellani and i. this was originally just going to be stored in my notes app because i had a big brain thought but then i decided that tumblr doesn't have enough tig content and i needed to help change that. i got stumped on a few things, so i of course asked my lovely mutual nova for some assistance <3 (tysm!!)

aaaanway, enough about that, here you go:

they obvi went to the concert in texas. they probably got tickets for both arlington and houston bc rich people yk

nash wore a sparkly cowboy hat and so did libby

(idc what you say, in my head, he likes glitter and i will stand on that hill)

in fact they all wore sparkly cowboy hats (xander forced grayson), but nash and libby's were matching

grayson ofc is wearing all black, very rep era but he's secretly a lover girl at heart. he also likes midnights because let's face it- who doesn't??

but everyone convinced him to get his jacket embroidered with "ts" and a few snakes along the sleeves and back to pull together the whole rep look

i don't think i finished talking about nash and libby?? anyway, matching sequin cowboy hats, nash wore a flannel with patches from different albums

him and libby spent a whole night designing it

libby wore a tee shirt from the midnights album

and the night before, nash and libby painted her favorite lyrics on some black cargo pants and some cute lil doodles

nash totally wrote N+L on one of the pockets inside a big red heart because i said so

very cute couple moment

thea is in her rep era because she's a badass so she wore all black with some maroon to make her outfit pop, she got her nails done and everything

girl was drop dead gorgeous

rebecca went with a more simplistic look, lavender flowly dress just under the knee, with a cardigan. yes, the cardigan. rebecca gives off very mellow and soft vibes so i think that's why she went with an evermore themed outfit

now, onto avery. i think her favorite albums is midnights and rep because of the vibe of the songs and overall it is just SO HER and i feel like she wore a shirt with the midnights album cover on it. she also wrote her favorite lyrics from the album on the front of the shirt with a fabric pen or something of the sort. i can also see her wearing a rep outfit too tho!! she is rich so since she could go to two concerts and wear both outfits ig lol

jameson is a total swiftie!! xander is too but we'll get to that next this boy would really like 1989 and a good handful of songs from lover because they remind him of avery

he would wear something 1989 themed but also something sorta flashy, i think

now moving onto max

she for sure loves the love triangle in folklore/evermore but also enjoys midnights

she radiates night owl energy because she'll stay up until 4am to finish a really good plot twisty dark romance novel and the whole track (midnights 3am edition) reminds her of her favorite ships. she makes edits and you can't convince me otherwise. although max does love evermore, she would totally love speak now era taylor and therefore would wear that really pretty purple sparky dress on the album cover!!

xander totally bought it for her

and with max looking like a literal princess, he would be mad blushing

and when he snaps out of his daze, he would tell her how pretty she is because let's face it- max is beautiful

now, as mentioned before, xander is a hardcore swiftie and i will always think this

he is a lover lover, so definitely went with a hat of the colors on the album

totally bitch-slapped toxic masculinity in the face by wearing pretty pastels

and definitely had the jacket from the yntcd MV!!

their favorite eras (and moments i suppose) on tour:

nash: debut, fearless

we love his nomad cowboy vibes

he also definitely vibes along with whatever libby likes too because he's down bad-

anyway

grayson: red

definitely shed a few tears during all too well ten minute version even though he tried to hide it

cus it reminded him of emily

i hate her with a passion

this isn't about her though

he loved the song and performance for 22 since he's in his 20's and his family is always telling him to loosen up

attending this concert definitely helped him

jameson: 1989

screaming along to style for sure!! me and nova were talking a bit about how he fits the description-

Exhibit A, "you got that James Dean daydream look in your eyes" is so him!!

Exhibit B, because i said so

me and nova totally weren't fangirling over this, i have no idea what you're talking about-

xander: lover

xander fs would start dancing with max and singing softly when taylor sang lover

and nash caught it all on camera

such a cute candid moment

i love xander+max with everything in me

libby: midnights

more specifically, WCS because she could relate to "give me back my girlhood, it was mine first"

fuck drake

i know that she wasn't a teen when they were in a relationship but she was still young, and he was toxic asf

aaaanyway, she would also love when tay performed vigilante shit

tay slayed so hard (i had to tell myself to turn down the gay because my mom and sister were at the concert with me lmao)

everyone felt things when taylor did that performance, to say the least

ik thea and practically everyone else would be in awe~

thea: reputation

would scream along to don't blame me

and she would sound amazing because there's nothing she can't do bffr

and rebecca would be like "damn how'd i get so lucky"

thea would also love karma from midnights because i feel like she's the type of person to not give af about other people and their opinions cus she knows that bad things are coming their way

"me and karma vibe like that" is so her

but she could also shit talk and stand her ground (and also fight)

i also think that that one part of don't blame me, "don't blame me, love made me crazy if it doesn't, you ain't doing it right" and "my drug is my baby" she would sing while making eye contact with rebecca

rebecca: evermore (and folklore obvi)

she would sing and sway softly and thea would take such a beautiful candid photo of her while she sings aksjaja

and when cardigan plays, she would grab thea's hand and dance with her, foreheads touching

this time, xander would take a photo of them like that and it becomes thea's homescreen

thea would also love champagne problems omfg-

rep gf x evermore gf is such a cute dynamic and they slayed so hard

and nowww avery: rep and also midnights!!

would love getaway car with a PASSION

it's just so her <33

"you were driving the getaway car" is very averyjameson even tho the rest of the lyrics aren't lol

she would love mastermind and especially the lyrics "you knew that im a mastermind and now you're mine"

and Paris!!

both songs are so averyjameson coded

"im so in love i might stop breathing drew a map on your bedroom ceiling" and "no i didn't see the news cause we were somewhere else" ajdjjahd

it's THEIR song and i will defend that till the day i die

bonus: i almost forgot to include oren and alisa, im so sorry, im very sleepy!! anyway, oren refuses to wear anything other than his usual attire meanwhile this concert is one ofbthe very few instances where you see alisa in casual clothes. not many people know (other than the hawthornes of course) that she's a swiftie because she always acts so professional. she wears that one red letters shirt that says "who's taylor swift, anyway? ew." and everyone does a double take cus she also has her hair down and doesn't look formal lmao. during some songs avery looks over her shoulder and swears she could see oren have the slightest smile and head-bumping along to the music.

to wrap it all up, they would ALL HAVE THE NUMBER 13 PAINTED ON THEIR HANDS IN DIFFERENT COLORS AND FONTS!!

and also a little extra because me and nova were having big brain moments and i HAVE to include it, it would be a crime if i didn't

They would all scream to paper rings but guess what else?? a PROPOSAL!!

my nashlibby brainrot needed to be included even more:

"i love shiny things but id marry you with paper rings" is so them because even tho they're rich, they value the little things <3

libby is so into the performance, it takes her a minute to realize that the stage screen is on her

she's confused because why would the cameras be on her??

and then taylor would point just behind her to where nash was on one knee

the ring wasn't shiny, it was literally a paper ring

nash didn't have a full on speech planned out

but of course libby would say yes

they kiss, it's on the big screen and everyone (taylor, backup dancers, everyone) cheers

it was caught on camera by practically everyone which leads to their engagement going viral all over tik tok and other media platforms!!

after the concert, back at Hawthorne House, they made a resin/epoxy(i think that's what it's called) mold to preserve the ring, and keep it from getting damaged

and the end because not only can i not think of anything else, but it's 4am while i save this to my drafts-

p.s. huge thank you again to @nutellani, you helped me with this so much when i was having a brain block. you have wonderful input, and i owe you big time!!

(majority of how we got more ideas was thru incoherent fangirling over taylor and tig haha)

[serendertothesquad]

Seren's Studies: The Odd Squad UK Promo

Now, before reading this, I need everyone to give a middle finger to Firefox for repeatedly flashbanging me throughout this entire followup whenever I went to take a screenshot. This has never happened before. I don't know why it's happening. I do know that I am inches away from throwing that inflamed vixen in the trash and moving to SlimBrowser instead.

Okay, so now that you've done that, let's discuss this 30-second promo that someone on Discord was very polite enough to dredge up. (Since there's a lot of...sensitive stuff that happens in that server -- in an "inner workings of a television network" kind of way -- I will refrain from naming names. If you see this, you know who you are, and thank you.)

At the time of this writing, there are no teaser images, nor have all the expansive synopses been released yet. It'll take a while for TVO to get through all of them, BBC doesn't have any expansive synopses, and my other sources are...dead in the water.

I don't think I need to say this, but I'll say it anyway: there are spoilers abound in this. If you haven't seen the promo yet, it's best if you view it here before proceeding with this followup.

Let's dive in below the break!

The only reason I'm putting this here is because the plehn started in Arlington and it's goin' to the United Kingdom and to Britain.

Because PBS's Headquarters is in Arlington.

MOUNT VIRGINIAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA-

Am I fuckin' trippin' on some shit or are we inside Big Ben? Because I mean the clock to the left there is confusing my pea brain. And if we are in Big Ben, some agent is going to go clear through these doors and wind up doing the Peter Griffin death pose but...y'know...they're dead. So.

On another note, I see we're ditching Apple computers and going straight for Microsoft. I know what iMacs look like. I have Google. Those are not iMacs. Sorry, Cook, but you're not cookin' in the UK.

We can also see the breakroom that was spotted in the gadget competition briefing video, which...kinda makes all my cracks about the shitty editing age poorly. (The video editing, mind. Not the audio editing. Those cracks stay. There is no excuse.)

So there's a lot to take in here -- and I mean it's a disgusting amount; I have to go frame-by-fucking-frame -- but let's focus on Captain O and Ozzie specifically. We have Captain O holding a letter of some kind, while Ozzie himself is still in his Department of Help uniform. The letter could be something along the lines of "congrats, you're hired", but who's to say. Hard to tell from a simple zoom-in and an "attention, everyone!"

Me, I just wanna know what the knitting needles on Captain O's jacket are for. Watch it not be answered in 12 episodes and then I'll be staying up Googling when I have a car to drive and cry in.

People in the Odd Squad Discord server are, by general consensus, not happy with this British-fied Odd Squad logo. And really, I don't blame them. This is pure "graphic design is my passion and I get paid for it handsomely, motherfucker".

Look, I liked it better when it looked like a sun. The sun, at least, is symbolic from a certain standpoint. This is just making it British because we're in Britain, and it's not funny.

Pure excitement written all over that girl's face, right there. He's gonna be the poor schmuck just being dragged around everywhere in town.

Kind of like the guy who was my "boyfriend" in high school and then literally dragged me through the halls showing me off like he got the most valuable plushie in the world. (Yes, that actually happened. Yes, the quotation marks are intentional. No, you don't want me to elaborate, trust me.)

Only the guy is a tourist, I'm the poor schmuck who has to help the tourist, and the guy probably can't drag me because I outclass him by about a hundred pounds.

It took them ten years, but we finally have magic effects for when agents combine gadgets.

Oscar is shedding a tear of joy somewhere. He's never been able to make that happen, but a tourist and a Brit somehow made it work, and he's so proud of them.

I could've sworn I've seen this structure as a filming location, but I can't for the life of me figure out whether it was in the Season 3 days or if it was last year. My memory's trying to make me think the former.

Taken out of context, though, this is a monster that sees Orli and whom I have to assume is either Onom or Orwell as two fresh-blooded meals. Which ups the danger ante of the entire franchise considerably, because there is a line between "I'm going to hurt you" and "I am going to kill you".

This octopus...thing is just...more direct about the latter.

In the medical industry, that would be classified as a brain disorder.

...In the real world.

Here in the Oddverse, you can have electricity shooting out of your head and it's as much of a minor inconvenience as an item being out of stock at the store.

(Also, someone mentioned that this guy sounds like TomSka, and...I mean, I'm inclined to agree. Not exact, but it's pretty close.)

This is William Ocean's brother, who finally emerged out of the depths of Monty Python. Good for him!

I'm sorry, I just noticed this...but they have a steel rotating door?

Like...like a captain's ship...like it's...

And it's automatic...

I'm sorry, but I'm just so damn used to seeing metal doors that seeing one in a completely different color, material, and shape is sending me for a whirlwind. Holy cheesin' Jesus.

"I wanna be a cooowgiiiirl, baby!"

"Heeeell yeah!"

"I wanna be a coooowgiiiiiirl, baaaaabyyyyy!"

(Or, alternatively, Smoothest Bitch in the East.)

And finally, we get to my favorite part: the gay triangle villain. Gay villains, if you want to count the one on the left, but since they don't speak, it's hard to tell where they fall on the LGBTQ+ spectrum.

I could make an entire Seren's Study on Odd Squad and LGBTQ+ representation, and I probably will one of these days, but I need you guys to understand something for a moment.

So in the aforementioned Discord server, there was talk of an episode of Season 1 of Alma's Way called "Say I Guess to the Dress". It involved Alma struggling to figure out what dress to wear to a party she's attending. It was meant to air in January of last year, but got mysteriously pulled and replaced with a different episode, and hasn't aired in the US since.

You might think this is not normal fare. You'd be right.

But in one scene of the episode, Lucas, one of Alma's friends, models a dress that -- and I am going off of the Wiki here -- was worn by Julia, his late cousin. Only for one scene. Only for a bit. Nothing more, nothing less.

This led to speculation that the episode got banned, hence why it hasn't aired yet. In Australia, it aired fine. However, we are on Season 2 of the show, and all we've gotten is pure crickets. We don't know for sure what happened, but with PBS, it's a minefield -- since they get a lot of money from donors, adding in an LGBTQ+ major character would sap up a good financial origin because people would be too pissed off to donate. So they relegate it to tiny sprinkles.

I'm not sure what the BBC's rules are on LGBTQ+ people in kids media. They could be strict, they could be lax, who knows. I still need to do some research on that. But for how much PBS is trying to make Gay Triangle Villain straight...he's not. He's really not.

Because let's be honest here: they're called the Triangle Sisters. That already says enough on its own.

Oof...didn't wanna make this super long-winded. But I'll discuss this at length later in another Seren's Study, once the episode airs.

I really might as well come out and really say it: I'm really not really a fan of the "really" gag. For a really short episode spanning really 11 minutes long, they really don't have time really for something of really this long and really painful.

...Really?

Really.

*distant ding*

Ahaha...ahaha...haha...aaaaaaah...

Mmm...

Cute. Real cute. Fuck you. But real cute.

And also, fuck PBS Kids execs for only putting out promos of new episodes of shows the day of. Remember when they used to put out promos earlier than that? Pepperidge Farm remembers, and for how much my memory sucks ass, so do I. Those were the golden days. Now we get stuff like these, because not a day goes by where they're stuck under the feet of Netflix and Hulu. Big competitors. Target and Walmart kind of rivalry.

----------------------------------------------------

Overall, not a lot of beef to this promo. I wasn't expecting anything mindblowing like, say, the trailer for the first movie (and that was epic in its own right), but it's pretty standard as far as PBS Kids promos go. I'm fairly positive CBBC will put out something far better that pulls in viewers, though I can't attest to how great their promos are because the last I saw one was...whoof, a long time ago.

But hey, look at it this way: Odd Squad UK and Pokemon Horizons will air on the same network, which means I can be an insufferable "Seven Degrees of Kevin Bacon is my life" bitch all I want.

As for the contents of the promo itself...aside from gay triangle villain, there wasn't really any spark that caught my eye. Nothing to make my jaw drop or make me go "wowee kazoo". At this point, I'm watching for two reasons: curiosity, and to give them another chance at making a franchise going stale a lot better. And also the fanfic ideas. Lots of fanfic ideas.

I doubt I'll put out another Seren's Study before this one (my PBS Kids one isn't done yet), so the next one will come sometime after the first batch of episodes releases and will be an episode followup for "Odd Ones In". Once that's done, I'll work on followups for the other episodes.

Thanks for reading. Seren out.

[mifhortunach]

"Barry has long been a show about a bunch of Hollywood assholes who refuse to accept accountability for their actions. That it came out in the middle of the first wave of #MeToo allegations makes its satire a little overblown and on the nose. In a world where no one cares that a wanted, armed killer is walking through a department store with a face like Barry’s and the means to do it, the blind eye we all turn to these mundane evils is as much a part of the show’s narrative as anything. Of course, Barry wants us to have fun with this idea too. It is funny, says the critic who has been enjoying the show’s descent into darkness while still finding the bright spots of humor the show’s best attribute. How fun are we supposed to have with this stuff? What’s so funny about all this killing anyway? Through Barry’s perspective, we always had a detached view of the subject, allowing moments of horror to happen casually.

In Barry’s final half hour, nothing’s really that funny until the narrative takes over. [...] It’s the one that the people inside the world of Barry concocted to make sense of it. What do they do to the “Barry Berkman Story,” the tale of a lost veteran trying to understand himself through art and murder? [...] After all, the only narrative left is the one where Barry is a hero, buried at Arlington Cemetery with full accommodations. [...] Through that story, Barry escapes accountability forever. Print the legend of Barry, and that’s all everyone will ever know. It doesn’t matter that he was a man with no heart. It doesn’t matter about the truth. It doesn’t matter that Barry was a cruel, despicable human being who often killed because he didn’t have the skills for anything else. It’s a narrative that we can understand. [...] For all the darkness this season, it feels fair to ask one last time: Was Barry a comedy? Ultimately, it’s hard to laugh at the show because it started to look a lot like real life. [...] Over its short run, Barry became a show about the ways we perceive, mythologize, and try to shed ourselves of the responsibility of the violence around us. The ways we turn our heads from it and try to process it. Barry treated its characters as bad guys in a society that celebrates them. Barry was a bad guy with no heart, a product of a violent culture that gave him nothing but a gun and told him to kill. Now, he’s a hero. Tricky legacies."

[autism-unfiltered]

The Limits and Potential Pitfalls of Self-Diagnosis in Autism

While the subject of self-diagnosis in the autistic community remains controversial, it's essential to shed light on the complexities of this topic. Numerous individuals may have personal reasons for preferring self-diagnosis over a formal one, ranging from accessibility issues to the desire for self-understanding. However, self-diagnosis, especially in the context of autism, can face certain limitations and challenges, which we will delve into below.

Firstly, autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with a wide range of presentations. It is not a single symptom or characteristic but rather a constellation of symptoms that can vary greatly among individuals (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). The tools that professionals use to diagnose autism, such as the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule (ADOS) and the Autism Diagnostic Interview, Revised (ADI-R), are thorough and multifaceted, designed to capture this complexity (Lord et al., 2000).

Moreover, the process of diagnosis typically involves not just observing the individual's current behavior but also gathering a comprehensive developmental history. This includes exploring whether autism-related signs were apparent in early childhood, as outlined in the diagnostic criteria of the DSM-5 (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). A self-diagnosing individual may not always have access to this historical information or may not recall it accurately.

Finally, cognitive biases like confirmation bias or self-serving bias may affect self-diagnosis. Confirmation bias refers to our tendency to seek out and focus on information that supports our existing beliefs while ignoring contradictory evidence. Self-serving bias, on the other hand, describes the human tendency to attribute success to personal traits while blaming external factors for failures. These biases may cloud objectivity and result in inaccurate self-diagnoses (Nickerson, 1998).

This is not to downplay the experiences or insight of those who self-diagnose, but to highlight that self-diagnosis may lack the robustness and objectivity of a professional diagnosis. It's always recommended to seek professional advice if possible, especially when dealing with something as complex as autism.

References:

American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: Author.

Lord, C., Rutter, M., Goode, S., Heemsbergen, J., Jordan, H., Mawhood, L., & Schopler, E. (2000). Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule: A standardized observation of communicative and social behavior. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 19(2), 185-212.

Nickerson, R. S. (1998). Confirmation bias: A ubiquitous phenomenon in many guises. Review of General Psychology, 2(2), 175–220.

[reasoningdaily]

Nowadays, Memorial Day honors veterans of all wars, but its roots are in America’s deadliest conflict, the Civil War. Approximately 620,000 soldiers died, about two-thirds from disease.

The work of honoring the dead began right away all over the country, and several American towns claim to be the birthplace of Memorial Day. Researchers have traced the earliest annual commemoration to women who laid flowers on soldiers’ graves in the Civil War hospital town of Columbus, Miss., in April 1866. But historians like the Pulitzer Prize winner David Blight have tried to raise awareness of freed slaves who decorated soldiers’ graves a year earlier, to make sure their story gets told too.

Clubhouse at the race course where Union soldiers were held prisoner.

Civil war photographs, 1861-1865, Library of Congress, Prints and Photographs Division.

In the approximately 10 days leading up to the event, roughly two dozen African American Charlestonians reorganized the graves into rows and built a 10-foot-tall white fence around them. An archway overhead spelled out “Martyrs of the Race Course” in black letters.

About 10,000 people, mostly black residents, participated in the May 1 tribute, according to coverage back then in the Charleston Daily Courier and the New York Tribune. Starting at 9 a.m., about 3,000 black schoolchildren paraded around the race track holding roses and singing the Union song “John Brown’s Body,” and were followed by adults representing aid societies for freed black men and women. Black pastors delivered sermons and led attendees in prayer and in the singing of spirituals, and there were picnics. James Redpath, the white director of freedman’s education in the region, organized about 30 speeches by Union officers, missionaries and black ministers. Participants sang patriotic songs like “America” and “We’ll Rally around the Flag” and “The Star-Spangled Banner.” In the afternoon, three white and black Union regiments marched around the graves and staged a drill.

The New York Tribune described the tribute as “a procession of friends and mourners as South Carolina and the United States never saw before.” The gravesites looked like a “one mass of flowers” and “the breeze wafted the sweet perfumes from them” and “tears of joy” were shed.

This tribute, “gave birth to an American tradition,” Blight wrote in Race and Reunion: “The war was over, and Memorial Day had been founded by African Americans in a ritual of remembrance and consecration.”

In 1996, Blight stumbled upon a New York Herald Tribune article detailing the tribute in a Harvard University archive — but the origin story it told was not the Memorial Day history that many white people had wanted to tell, he argues.

An Alfred Waud illustration of the.Union soldiers cemetery known as "Martyrs of the Race course" in Charleston, S.C.

Morgan collection of Civil War drawings at the Library of Congress

The origin story that did stick involves an 1868 call from General John A. Logan, president of a Union Army veterans group, urging Americans to decorate the graves of the fallen with flowers on May 30 of that year. The ceremony that took place in Arlington National Cemetery that day has been considered the first official Memorial Day celebration. Memorial Day became a national holiday two decades later, in 1889, and it took a century before it was moved in 1968 to the last Monday of May, where it remains today. According to Blight, Hampton Park, named after Confederate General Wade Hampton, replaced the gravesite at the Martyrs of the Race Course, and the graves were reinterred in the 1880s at a national cemetery in Beaufort, S.C.

The fact that the freed slaves’ Memorial Day tribute is not as well remembered is emblematic of the struggle that would follow, as African Americans’ fight to be fully recognized for their contributions to American society continues to this day.

Write to Olivia B. Waxman at olivia.waxman@time.com.

[uniquepassionatehealthcare]

Embarking on Your Weight Loss Journey: A Guide to Arlington's Top Clinics

Are you ready to take control of your health and achieve your weight loss goals? If you reside in Arlington, TX, you're in luck! The city boasts a plethora of top-notch weight loss clinics, each offering a unique approach to help you shed those extra pounds and embrace a healthier lifestyle. In this comprehensive blog, we'll delve into some of the best weight loss clinics in Arlington, TX, exploring their services, expertise, and patient testimonials.

Understanding the Importance of Choosing the Right Clinic

Selecting the right weight loss clinic is crucial for a successful weight loss clinic arlington tx  loss journey. Here are some key factors to consider:

Expertise and Experience: Look for clinics with experienced and qualified medical professionals who specialize in weight loss.

Personalized Approach: A tailored weight loss plan that addresses your individual needs and goals is essential.

Comprehensive Services: Consider clinics that offer a range of services, including medical consultations, nutritional counseling, and exercise guidance.

Supportive Environment: A supportive and encouraging environment can significantly impact your weight loss journey.

Affordable Pricing: Choose a clinic that offers flexible payment plans and affordable pricing options.

Top Weight Loss Clinics in Arlington, TX

Cure Weight Loss Clinic

Overview: Cure Weight Loss Clinic is a leading medical weight loss clinic in Arlington, TX, dedicated to providing personalized and effective weight loss solutions.

Services:

Medical Weight Loss Programs

Prescription Weight Loss Medications

Nutritional Counseling

Lifestyle Coaching

Patient Testimonials:

"Dr. Imam and his team were incredibly supportive and knowledgeable. They helped me lose 30 pounds in just 3 months!" - Sarah M.

"I've tried countless diets and exercise programs, but nothing worked until I found Cure Weight Loss Clinic. I'm finally feeling confident and healthy." - Michael D.

Renown Weight Loss Arlington

Overview: Renown Weight Loss Arlington offers comprehensive weight loss programs tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient.

Services:

Medical Weight Loss Evaluations

Prescription Weight Loss Medications

Nutritional Guidance

Behavioral Counseling

Patient Testimonials:

"The staff at Renown Weight Loss Arlington is amazing! They've helped me lose over 40 pounds and improve my overall health." - Emily R.

"I was hesitant to try a weight loss clinic, but Renown Weight Loss Arlington exceeded my expectations. I'm so grateful for their support and guidance." - David L.

Physician's Weight Control and Wellness Centers

Overview: Physician's Weight Control and Wellness Centers provide a holistic approach to weight loss, combining medical expertise with lifestyle modifications.

Services:

Medical Weight Loss Programs

Nutritional Counseling

Exercise Prescription

Behavioral Therapy

Patient Testimonials:

"I've struggled with my weight for years, but Physician's Weight Control has given me the tools and support I needed to succeed." - Jessica P.

"The team at Physician's Weight Control is incredibly knowledgeable and compassionate. They've helped me transform my life." - Mark T.

Additional Tips for Weight Loss Success

In addition to choosing a reputable weight loss clinic, here are some additional tips to help you achieve your weight loss goals:

Set Realistic Goals: Break down your weight loss goals into smaller, achievable milestones.

Make Gradual Changes: Start with small, sustainable changes to your diet and lifestyle.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Prioritize Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night.

Manage Stress: Practice stress-relief techniques like meditation or yoga.

Seek Support: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, or a support group.

Conclusion

By choosing a reputable weight loss clinic in Arlington, TX, and following a personalized weight loss plan, you can achieve your desired weight and improve your overall health. Remember, consistency, patience, and dedication are key to long-term success.

[a2zsportsnews]

Showdown at the Shed: Previewing the 2024 Home Run Derby

Stephen Brashear, Reggie Hildred-USA TODAY Sports For those who enjoy the loudest, simplest, most dopamine-drenched form of baseball, today is a special day. It’s Derby day, and even better, the silly hats are not mandatory. The MLB Home Run Derby takes place at 8:00 p.m. ET at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. What the Costco-coded ballpark lacks in aesthetics it makes up for in bulk.…

[yourflowersfirst]

day 1,421

pages 256-258

filled with pain and unwanted resentment. i wish to be made of love but i’m not; i am the pieces of a child held together by regret, rage, and trusting in an older man- all begging to fall apart. i always think of you before i fall asleep. the words you said, the way you looked, the things we laughed about, the silent moments we shared. when i dream, i always try to make sure it’s of you. it’s always about you. loving you is breathing to me. easy rise and fall of my chest.

you are the knife i turn inside of myself, is this love?

and i thought, so suddenly it jolted me, “he’s so pretty i could cry,” i clutched my ribs, my heart, anything to calm the ache and storm gathering in me. “pretty boy, with pretty hair and pretty eyes. he’s mine, all mine.”

he wants nothing to do with me.

⋅───⊱༺ ♰ ༻⊰───⋅

"the lord knows that even the lowliest amongst us can be worthy of mercy," father jeff was stoic. "but once the devil has his claws in, the fires of hell take over. there is no saving someone beyond it. temptation is one of these things that can lure someone over the threshold. once your soul is engulfed, praying for 1000 years could not save you."

i chewed at my nails. my little sister was looking at her kids' bible, young enough to get away with not paying attention. i zoned out and thought about what father jeff said, how he seemed to be staring straight at me. during communion, my hands trembled, and i almost dropped the eucharist. the organist looked at me quizzically.

after service, once home, i had a fried bologna sandwich for lunch my mom made. i ate half and chewed and spit the other half. i excused myself and went to hide alone in the woods by my house, still wearing my long skirt and saddle shoes from mass. i yanked my hair out of the braid in annoyance, tangled but unbothered by the knots as i trotted to the ginormous oak trees and rushing dirty creek.

my mother just sighed and kept folding laundry as i left, shouting to be back in an hour to do algebra I homework. i barely had a C, she reminded me, not gently. ("high school is going to be terrible for you if you keep behaving like this.") i laid in the tall spring grass on my back and tried texting him on my blue slide phone- a pantech laser 2012 that couldn't download apps, but could play non copyrighted music and text my boyfriend.

i tried sending him a few messages, but it was the middle of the day; he'd likely be at work. though, to my shock, he texted back quickly.

"sneaking on my phone to text u. don't tell my boss ;)"

i snorted and laid my arm over my eyes to fight off the sun. "our secret. miss your voice though."

"i wanna see u so bad," he replied, ignoring me. "ur an angel. the prettiest girl i've ever seen."

i snapped a quick selfie to send (which would take forever on this phone, of course). i hesitated, despising my glasses, braces, spattering of freckles. i always thought my freckles looked like the blood spatter at a crime scene. i sent it anyway, and he gushed over my appearance. "you're beautiful, so sexy, i am so in love with you, perfect darling baby." it felt like a trap. i felt like a caged animal.

"i wanna make u feel good," he replied. "would do anything to go down on u..."

"i wanna meet you irl already, feel ur skin on mine," he sent through after i ignored his other messages, the ones that made bile creep up my throat. a caterpillar crawled up my leg in solidarity. "lets meet at a park in upper arlington. i'm off work wednesday, we could hang at likeee 2?"

i gnawed at my lower lip, free hand fiddling with the dandelions shedding their yellow coats. "i'm in school till 3. plus i can't drive, and if you pick me up my mom will freak LOL." meeting him in person, in truth, frightened me. my blood was running cold and turning pale in my veins.

"have ur mom drop u off, just tell her ur meeting a friend," the solution came too easily to him. "i wanna kiss u!!!!"

my brain was numb as i typed out, "okay."

3 days later, we were at a park 15 minutes from my house. i just wanted to hold his hand, that's all. nothing impure. my mom, sister, krystal, and i all got out of the minivan. as we walked around the park, i saw him. i felt like a deer about to get run over. he sauntered over to me, though, not seeing my mom hobbling behind me. my sister and krystal were running right to the swings, oblivious to the shitstorm about to happen. i trotted ahead, just barely out of eyesight. ignored by all. no one noticed the little girl approaching the man with a class ring on.

"wow, hi! you're gorgeous in person," he ran toward me and kissed my lips so fast i hardly noticed.

my first kiss.

we walked around the park quickly, until we settled under a huge pine tree that was throwing away its winter coat. early april was still chilly in ohio, but the sun was out just enough to tease warmer days.

i was wearing my nicest pair of earrings and most form fitting skinny jeans. we nestled under the tree, him wiggling his tongue into my mouth. anytime i tried to protest and pull away he snaked his hand to the back of my head, pulling my hair, pulling me back in. he smelled very nice, i thought. it's what i tried to focus on instead of the incessant need rising in him and the nausea rising in me.

in my peripheral vision, i saw someone walking over to the tree we were under. i tried to jump away, but it was too late.

she saw. she saw him, had she been catching up this whole time? frick frick frick. i jumped away from him, his dyed hair much more blue in person the more i looked at him. "oh, is this..." he trailed off, noticing my mother, her face turning 20 shades of crimson.

"who is this man?" my mom eventually pulled me away, her anger and grief palpable enough to taste. i deserved this. i waved goodbye to him sheepishly as i was hauled away. he just looked dumbstruck, then annoyed as he sauntered home in his pristine vans and my chemical romance tshirt. "girls! we're going home!" she howled at my sister and her best friend, 11 and 12 years old respectively.

"aww man, we weren't even here for 20 minutes."

"yeah, why'd you ruin all the fun?"

i didn't have an answer. my mother shoveled me into the van. "we'll talk once we're home, with your father."

"no, please don't tell him," i started crying and hyperventilating. my glasses fogged up pathetically. "please."

"sis, why're you crying so hard?"

"you have snot running from your nose. ew."

i wiped my face with my paramore hoodie.

once home, my parents sat me in my room, on the bed. i was preparing for the worst. him arrested, police cars everywhere, the news interviewing how i loved but lost him in the end. me watching from the sidelines, brave yet inconsolable. none of this was my fault, technically. right? how much victimhood are you willing to grant a girl like me, one who knew exactly what i was?

"you're grounded for a month," my mom started with no preamble. "and your phone and laptop privileges are gone except for school, with one of us watching."

i started crying again. "but i love him."

"no. shut up. i won't hear of this," my mom kept going. "you did this, you let him do all that crap i saw on your phone messages. you could have said no and deleted his number, or whatever. either way. no more skype, no more phone, no more minecraft, no more wizard101. i don't know how you met that man, but it ends now."

(author's note: my mom had no clue how to deal with this. i am sympathetic to her now. please don't treat her harshly, this is just what happened to me.)

my dad was silent as the dead. i wailed, "i'm sorry," over and over again.

"you're gonna be."

no police, he wasn't arrested. no one knew of my shame except them and me. and him, of course. my parents threw all the blame on my shoulders for me alone to carry. that night, in the bath, i scrubbed my skin so hard i bled a little. yet i never felt clean and never really would again. in a month, once i got my phone back, i texted him: "it's me. i'm so sorry." i still remembered his number, my love knowing no bounds. it still doesn't.

"whatever. u left me. i have a new gf now, anyway, and shes way hotter than u. have fun at ur marching band practices."

i threw my new phone across my room. it was dark, and i heard cicadas screeching at me. they were calling me a stupid infantile girl, and they were right. i wondered if my soul was still beyond saving. i said 10 hail marys, just in case it would help. god, i'm not these things i do. i'm gonna regret this forever. i sobbed over my gold cross rosary. it still hangs in my room to this day.

[hackernewsrobot]

Amazon HQ2 was supposed to add jobs last year. It shed them instead

https://www.washingtonpost.com/dc-md-va/2024/04/16/amazon-hq2-jobs-arlington-virginia/

[eggeater69]

hi! sorry if this is random but i showed ur tags on that capital of australia post into a gc being like "haha isnt it funny that all these texas cities sound like frat boy names" but then someone said "wait but ive never heard of tyler" and then i realised ive also never heard of tyler and then the only american on the gc confirmed shed also never heard of it. so i looked it up and its number 38 by population???? so what i am DYING to know is ur reasoning for putting it in the dallas / houston category (instead of smth like san antonio or even fort worth or arlington) if its literally the 38th biggest city. do u have some personal ties to tyler or is it famous for smth within the us or????

i live in texas and tyler is the closest big city to me so i assumed it was well known in other states 😭

like its an hour away so whenever i go there its like a day trip and we go to a bunch of stores and stuff

i just kinda thought everyone knew of it since its got the caldwell zoo and its got like a huge rose garden but not that i think abt it canton (where i live) is probably more well known than tyler since it has the biggest flea market in the world and all lol

but yeah there are a lot more well known cities in texas i just kinda went with whatever first came to mind ngl

[mastermindxsl]

PNW Demolition

PNW Demolition: Your Trusted Demolition Contractor in Washington State

Introduction:

In the bustling landscape of Washington State, where urban development meets suburban expansion, the need for reliable demolition Demolition Contractor is paramount. Enter PNW Demolition, a stalwart in the industry for over 8 years, offering comprehensive demolition solutions to meet the diverse needs of clients across Snohomish, King, and Skagit Counties. Led by business owner Steven Wheeler, PNW Demolition has earned its reputation as a premier demolition contractor through its unwavering commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction.

Unveiling PNW Demolition:

PNW Demolition, headquartered in Marysville, WA, stands as a beacon of proficiency in the realm of demolition contracting. The company's service footprint extends across key cities such as Marysville, Arlington, Edmonds, Everett, Lake Stevens, Monroe, Stanwood, Tulalip, Seattle, and their surrounding areas. Specializing in both residential and commercial demolition, PNW Demolition offers a diverse array of services to cater to the unique requirements of its clientele.

Comprehensive Services Offered:

At PNW Demolition, versatility is key. The company prides itself on its ability to tackle an extensive range of demolition projects with precision and expertise. Whether it's asphalt removal, selective interior demolition, selective exterior demolition, chimney demolition, pool demolition, concrete demolition, house demolition, shed removal, kitchen interior demolition, mobile home demolition, or bathroom demolition, PNW Demolition boasts the skill and equipment to get the job done seamlessly.

Unmatched Expertise and Experience:

What sets PNW Demolition apart from its competitors is its wealth of experience and industry knowledge. With over 8 years of operation under its belt, the company has honed its craft and refined its methodologies to deliver results that exceed expectations. Led by a team of seasoned professionals, PNW Demolition prioritizes safety, efficiency, and quality in every project it undertakes.

Customer-Centric Approach:

At the heart of PNW Demolition's ethos lies a deep-seated commitment to customer satisfaction. The company understands that each client comes with unique needs and preferences, and as such, places a premium on personalized service. From the initial consultation to project completion, PNW Demolition works closely with clients to understand their objectives, provide transparent communication, and deliver tailored solutions that align with their vision.

Why Choose PNW Demolition?

Reliability: With a proven track record of excellence spanning over 8 years, PNW Demolition is a name you can trust for all your demolition needs.

Versatility: From residential to commercial projects, and everything in between, PNW Demolition has the expertise and resources to handle diverse demolition requirements.

Experience: With a team of seasoned professionals at the helm, PNW Demolition brings a wealth of experience and industry insight to every project, ensuring optimal results.

Customer Satisfaction: PNW Demolition prioritizes the needs and preferences of its clients, delivering personalized service and Demolition Contractor Seattle expectations with every endeavor.

In conclusion, PNW Demolition stands as a testament to excellence in the realm of demolition contracting. With its unwavering commitment to quality, safety, and customer satisfaction, the company continues to set the standard for superior demolition services in Washington State. Whether you're in need of residential demolition or commercial demolition solutions, PNW Demolition is your trusted partner for all your demolition needs.

[digitallogicdesign]

Dominating Digital: Unleashing the Power of Arlington SEO Services for Business Success

In the heart of Texas, Arlington stands as a vibrant city with a thriving business landscape. As the digital realm continues to shape consumer behavior, businesses in Arlington are recognizing the pivotal role of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) services in achieving online success. This blog explores the dynamic world of Arlington SEO services, shedding light on the importance, strategies, and impact these services have on businesses navigating the digital frontier.

The Significance of SEO in Arlington:

In a highly competitive digital marketplace, standing out is essential for business success. Arlington SEO services play a crucial role in enhancing a company's online visibility, driving organic traffic, and increasing potential customer engagement. As consumers increasingly turn to online platforms for information and services, businesses in Arlington understand the need to strategically position themselves to capture this digital audience.

Tailoring Strategies for Local Success:

One of the distinguishing features of Arlington SEO services is the emphasis on local strategies. Recognizing the unique character of the Arlington market, SEO services in the area prioritize local SEO techniques. This includes optimizing for location-specific keywords, securing Google My Business listings, and garnering positive reviews from satisfied customers. These strategies not only enhance search engine rankings but also ensure businesses are prominently featured in local searches, connecting with the community in a meaningful way.

Content Excellence as a Driving Force:

Quality content remains a cornerstone of effective SEO strategies in Arlington. SEO services focus on creating content that is not only search engine-friendly but also resonates with the local audience. Engaging blog posts, informative articles, and compelling website copy not only contribute to higher search rankings but also establish businesses as authorities in their respective industries. In Arlington's dynamic market, content excellence becomes a key differentiator in capturing the attention of potential customers.

Strategic Keyword Optimization for Targeted Results:

Arlington SEO services conduct thorough keyword research to identify the terms and phrases potential customers are using in their online searches. Strategic placement of these keywords within website content, meta tags, and other on-page elements helps improve a website's search engine ranking. By aligning content with the specific needs and interests of the Arlington target audience, businesses can enhance their visibility and attract qualified leads.

Mobile Optimization for Arlington's On-the-Go Lifestyle:

In a city where residents are constantly on the move, mobile optimization is a critical aspect of Arlington SEO services. Websites need to be not only desktop-friendly but also seamlessly accessible on smartphones and tablets. Mobile responsiveness is not just a ranking factor for search engines; it's a necessity to provide a smooth and user-friendly experience for Arlington's on-the-go consumers.

Adapting to the Evolving SEO Landscape:

Arlington SEO services stay ahead of the curve by adapting to the evolving landscape of search engine algorithms and user behavior. From voice search optimization to structured data markup, staying abreast of emerging trends ensures that businesses remain competitive in the digital space. Arlington's dynamic market demands a proactive approach to SEO that embraces innovation and embraces the latest industry best practices.

Conclusion:

In the bustling city of Arlington, where tradition meets innovation, SEO services are the linchpin of online success for businesses. The strategic implementation of SEO not only enhances visibility but also establishes a strong digital foundation for businesses to thrive. With a focus on local strategies, content excellence, and adaptability to emerging trends, Arlington SEO services are empowering businesses to navigate the complexities of the digital landscape and emerge as leaders in their industries. Partner with us to unlock the full potential of your business in Arlington's dynamic and competitive online environment.

[jointcommandrealty]

Navigating the Real Estate Landscape: Exploring Quantico Marine Base and Fort Belvoir

The world of real estate is a dynamic landscape that mirrors the ever-evolving needs of its inhabitants. For those connected to the United States military, the decision on where to call home often involves considerations beyond the typical criteria. In this article, we delve into the real estate scenes surrounding Quantico Marine Base and Fort Belvoir, shedding light on the unique opportunities and challenges these locations present.

Quantico Marine Base Real Estate:

Nestled along the Potomac River in Virginia, Quantico Marine Base is not only a hub for military operations but also a community where military families find their homes. The Quantico real estate market offers a diverse range of housing options, from historic homes to modern residences, catering to the varied preferences of its residents.

One notable aspect of Quantico real estate is its proximity to Washington, D.C. This proximity not only provides convenient access to the nation's capital but also influences property values. Homes near Quantico Marine Base often serve as an attractive option for those who want to enjoy suburban living while maintaining easy access to the cultural and professional opportunities of Washington, D.C.

The real estate market around Quantico is known for its stability, with property values generally holding steady over time. This makes it an appealing location for both investors and those looking for a long-term home. Additionally, the strong sense of community on and around the base contributes to a welcoming atmosphere for military families.

Fort Belvoir Real Estate:

Moving south along the Potomac, we encounter Fort Belvoir, another significant military installation in Virginia. Home to a diverse range of military branches, Fort Belvoir plays a crucial role in supporting national defense and serving as a community for military personnel and their families.

The real estate market around Fort Belvoir is equally diverse, offering an array of housing options to accommodate different lifestyles. From townhouses to single-family homes, Fort Belvoir real estate provides choices for military families at various stages of life. The proximity to major employment centers, such as Alexandria and Arlington, adds to the appeal of this area.

One factor influencing the Fort Belvoir real estate market is the ongoing growth and development in the surrounding areas. As the region experiences economic expansion, property values may see an upward trend, making it an attractive option for both homeowners and investors.

Comparative Analysis:

While both Quantico Marine Base and Fort Belvoir share proximity to Washington, D.C., and cater to military families, there are notable differences in their real estate landscapes. Quantico, with its historical charm and stable market, may appeal to those seeking a more established and close-knit community. On the other hand, Fort Belvoir, with its diverse housing options and the potential for economic growth, might attract individuals looking for a blend of suburban living and future investment potential.

Both locations benefit from their strategic positions in the Greater Washington metropolitan area, providing residents with access to various amenities, cultural attractions, and employment opportunities. The decision between Quantico and Fort Belvoir ultimately depends on individual preferences, lifestyle considerations, and long-term goals.

Conclusion:

Quantico Marine Base and Fort Belvoir stand as pillars of the U.S. military presence, and their surrounding real estate markets reflect the unique characteristics of each location. As military families navigate the decision-making process regarding where to call home, understanding the nuances of these real estate landscapes becomes essential. Whether drawn to the historical charm of Quantico or the diverse opportunities around Fort Belvoir, those connected to the military have the chance to find not just a residence but a community that aligns with their aspirations and values.

[atlaslimoservice]

Wheels of Arlington: A Deep Dive into Local Transportation Services

Introduction

Arlington, a city with a rich history and a bustling modern landscape, boasts a diverse array of transportation services that cater to the needs of its residents and visitors. Navigating through the myriad options can be a task, but a closer look reveals a well-connected and efficient network. This guide takes a deep dive into the local transportation services in Arlington, VA, shedding light on the intricacies of public transit, rideshares, bike rentals, and more.

1. Public Transit: Connecting the Community

At the heart of Arlington's transportation infrastructure lies its public transit system, a vital link that connects neighborhoods and facilitates daily commutes. Buses and metro services crisscross the city, offering an affordable and reliable means of transportation. Understanding the nuances of public transit, including routes, schedules, and fare structures, is crucial for both residents and visitors looking to navigate Arlington seamlessly.

2. Rideshare Services: The Modern Commuter's Ally

In recent years, rideshare services have become an integral part of Arlington's transportation ecosystem. Platforms like Uber and Lyft provide on-demand rides, offering a level of convenience that aligns with the fast-paced lifestyle of modern commuters. To make the most of rideshare services, it's essential to compare prices, read reviews, and stay informed about promotions. Rideshares are particularly handy for those seeking a quick and efficient mode of transportation.

3. Bike and Scooter Rentals: Embracing Sustainability and Exploration

Arlington's commitment to sustainability is evident in its bike and scooter rental options. Bike-sharing programs and scooter rentals offer an eco-friendly and active way to explore the city's streets and scenic pathways. With dedicated bike lanes and a bike-friendly infrastructure, these rentals provide an alternative means of transportation that promotes both health and environmental consciousness.

4. Private Car Services: Luxury and Tailored Experiences

For those who crave a touch of luxury or require a more personalized travel experience, private car services come to the forefront. Professional chauffeurs, well-maintained vehicles, and customizable services characterize this mode of transportation. Private car services are ideal for special occasions, business meetings, or simply when one desires a journey marked by comfort and style.

5. Rental Cars: Flexibility and Freedom to Roam

Rental cars offer a different dimension to mobility, providing the freedom to explore Arlington and its surroundings at one's own pace. With various rental agencies scattered across the city, visitors can choose from a range of vehicles that suit their needs. This option is particularly beneficial for those looking to venture beyond the city limits and explore the broader landscapes of Arlington and its neighboring areas.

6. Accessibility and Inclusivity

Arlington places a strong emphasis on ensuring that its transportation services are accessible and inclusive. Public transit systems are equipped with features such as accessible buses and metro stations, accommodating individuals with mobility challenges. Rideshare services also offer accessible options, reinforcing the city's commitment to providing transportation solutions for all residents and visitors, regardless of their mobility needs.

7. Planning Ahead and Budgeting Wisely

Efficient transportation requires thoughtful planning and budgeting. For residents and visitors alike, understanding the routes, schedules, and associated costs of different transportation modes is essential. Planning ahead for appointments, events, or leisurely explorations ensures a smoother journey. Additionally, setting a transportation budget helps individuals manage their expenses and make informed decisions about which services align with their financial parameters.

Conclusion

Arlington's wheels of transportation are diverse and dynamic, offering a range of options to suit the preferences and needs of its diverse populace. Public transit weaves a web of connectivity, rideshares provide modern convenience, bike and scooter rentals embrace sustainability, private car services add a touch of luxury, and rental cars offer freedom and flexibility. The city's commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone, regardless of their mobility needs, can navigate Arlington with ease. As residents and visitors explore the various facets of Arlington's transportation services, they discover a city that moves with efficiency, embraces diversity, and provides solutions for every journey. So, whether it's a daily commute, a special occasion, or an exploration of Arlington's vibrant landscapes, the local transportation services are the wheels that keep the city moving forward.