#High court recruitment 2020

[aftgficrec]

Staff Recs - Autumn Roundup 2024

Some fics with fall vibes to warm your soul. -AFTG Fic Rec Fam

previous recs:

staff fave Halloween here (includes previous Halloween recs and supernatural roundup)

Fall Exchange 2020 here

‘doubt thou the stars be fire’ here

‘morbid stuff’ series here

‘The End Is Up To Us’ here

‘Autumn Crocus’ here

‘The Suit Universe’ part 8 here

‘Good Old-Fashioned Lover Boy’ here

‘FoxTail Cafe’ series part 13 here

‘Apple Picking Day’ here

‘Fair Games’ here

‘little ghost’ here

‘Lucky Strike’ here

‘Foxglove Court’ series here

‘Thanks for nothing’ here

‘Teaching a caged bird to fly’ series part 5 here

‘Sugar, Spice, and Corporate Espionage’ here

‘The Massive Continuity of Ducks’ here

‘Spell it Out’ here

‘10 tips to stress less, without the tips’ here

‘Being So Normal’ here

‘Aidan Minyard’ here

Honeycomb by moonix [Rated T, 10871 Words, Complete, 2023, Locked]

In which Kevin owns a restaurant in a picturesque small town, Andrew is his chef, Neil disrupts the routine, no one gets poisoned with mushrooms, and life isn't so bad.

tw: implied/referenced eating disorders, tw: implied/referenced child abuse, tw: implied/referenced self harm

Seasons of memory by butallmystars [Rated G, 4772 Words, Complete, 2023]

Neil was all sorts of alluring and unusual; a thin strip of seemingly restless energy, eyes moving almost as much as his legs did, the bespoke lines of his blazer the most uniform thing about him and yet somehow not out of place.

tw: implied/referenced child abuse

you wish I was yours (and I hope that you're mine) by lesbiankaz [Not Rated, 9526 Words, Complete, AFTG Fall Exchange 2024]

“Aaron Minyard,” Allison said in a dramatic tone. “Truth or dare?” Aaron rolled his eyes. “Dare.” Kevin wasn't surprised. He knew Aaron would prefer to do a stupid dare instead of telling a single thing about himself. “I dare you,” she paused, making suspense, “to spend seven minutes in heaven with Kevin.” - Kevin has a crush on Aaron. Allison tries to help.

5 ultra-cute fall date ideas that will make your man fall more for you by Bravbo [Rated G, 1364 Words, Complete, AFTG Fall Exchange 2024]

The problem starts with one Neil Josten. Neil who has apparently never celebrated any holidays. Neil, with his blasé attitude about violence. Neil, with his distressingly blue eyes and freckles. Neil, who Andrew want to put on a jar and study like a bug. Yes, Neil Josten is a problem. It´s him that has driven Andrew to this, seeking advice on google like a teenage girl just to make sure Neil has the best holiday.

tw: fire

Float Down (Like Autumn Leaves) series by Apaleyellow [Not Rated, 7309 Words, Collection, Updated Oct 2024]

Part 1: fill my cup half empty (because it's never been half full) [5221 Words, Incomplete, Updated Sept 2024] The boy's face in the reflection was pale, almost translucent, with freckles dotting his cheeks and auburn hair falling in untamed curls around his face. His eyes were an icy blue, piercing and filled with a haunting sadness. Nathaniel Wesninski. The Butcher's son. The ghost of the manor. -- OR -- The one where Andrew is a best-selling horror author who visits the Wesninski Manor in search of inspiration for his next book.

tw: implied/referenced child abuse, tw: implied/referenced torture, tw: implied/referenced murder 

Part 2: would we survive in a horror movie? [2088 Words, Complete, 2024] Their moment was interrupted by Seth's booming voice. "Alright, losers. Time for a real story. Ever heard of the Butcher of Baltimore?" -- OR -- The one where the Foxes are telling scary stories around a campfire and only Andrew knows who Neil really is.

tw: implied/referenced torture, tw: implied/referenced murder 

penchant by rooftopkisses [Rated T, 5051 Words, Complete, AFTG Fall Exchange 2024]

When Neil is recruited by Coach Wymack to join the track team at Palmetto High School, he draws the attention of Andrew, the artsy loner, as well as Kevin, the sport’s current state champion.

Rebel Rebel by Andreil_pipedream [Rated M, 7905 Words, Complete, AFTG Fall Exchange 2024]

October settles down on the small town outside of Baltimore. Werewolves start haunting the forests and a certain orange cat gets curious. Nell meets an interesting girl who she may or may not have a crush on. After an awkward first meeting, things are made worse- or better- when she finds out they go to the same school. After a few risky decisions and oblivious flirting, she gets a date where everything starts to go wrong.

tw: child abuse, tw: extreme transphobia, tw: gaslighting, tw: confinement, tw: food deprivation, tw: implied/referenced murder

it's still the autumn leaves by TogeMythia [Rated T, 3389 Words, Complete, 2024]

‘Can I come with you?’ Andrew paused, he was sat on the floor with one foot awkwardly in the air and a black sock with an orange pumpkin pattern halfway pulled on. ‘What?’ He asked. ‘Can I come with you? Wherever you are going.’ - or Neil and Andrew spend an autumn afternoon together.

A Bushel and a Peck by justdk [Rated T, 1405 Words, Complete, 2020]

Andrew picked a few low hanging apples, handing one to Neil. They wiped them off on their shirts and snacked on them while they looked for the rest of the team. The sweet, tangy juice filled Neil’s mouth and ran down his chin. It tasted way better than a store-bought apple. Overhead crows called to each other and the smell of apples filled the crisp, autumn air. Neil closed his eyes and breathed in deep, holding in the feeling of freedom and possibility. When he opened his eyes, he found Andrew looking at him, hazel eyes warm and steady. [or: the Foxes go apple picking]

Bets, Blind Dates, and Dares. Oh My! by makebelieveanything [Rated T, 3761 Words, Complete, 2021]

Andrew loses a bet to Aaron and Kevin and he has to go on two blind dates - they go about as well as he would expect. Is Andrew stuck in a rom-com or is this really how life works?

gourd vibes only by otatop [Not Rated, 3750 Words, Complete, AFTG Fall Exchange 2021]

A mini road trip up through New England to meet the foxes.

Disparity by Jeni182 [Rated G, 3781 Words, Complete, AFTG Fall Exchange 2021]

Andrew is a criminal justice professor who keeps finding excuses to visit the library where a certain red head works.

tw: implied/referenced child abuse, tw: implied/referenced self harm

hopscotch heart by moonix [Rated M, 2046 Words, Complete, 2021, Locked]

Podfic here

Neil has a terrible time at a party. Andrew shows up and Neil has a slightly less terrible time at a party.

tw: implied/referenced murder, tw: anxiety

Season of mists and mellow fruitfulness by seaspeak [Not Rated, 869 Words, Complete, 2016, Locked]

In which Jean falls in love with the Fall, thanks to Jeremy

There Was Only One Pumpkin by familiarwildflowers [Not Rated, 2275 Words, Complete, AFTG Fall Exchange 2021]

To get Nicky off his back about his dating life, Neil decided to lie. Surely there would be no consequences? That's what Neil thought, until, while on a visit to a pumpkin patch, Andrew's lot steps in and he's forced to confront his lie.

Pumpkin Patch by H_bee69 [Rated G, 1600 Words, Complete, 2023]

Part 1 of Spooky times and autumn vibes 

Neil wants to go to the pumpkin patch and who is Andrew to deny Neil.

until I fell off from that peak by eeveepkmnfan [Rated M, 4817 Words, Complete, 2023]

Neil Josten lives and tries to come to terms with what that means. Or, Neil collects leaves - Andrew vocally protests.

tw: implied/referenced child abuse

Forever Falling by cshogg [Rated G, 1370 Words, Complete, 2023]

Snippets of Neil and Andrew's life during autumn: trying new things, rewriting traumatic experiences, and learning to love the seasons like normal people do.

[pookalicious-hq]

Paige Bueckers x reader (Preview)

Lmk if you're liking this idea... sorta enemies (one sided) to lovers Paige Bueckers x Uconnwbb!Reader (lmao and for fun purposes totally making readers ex gf ellie williams)

title (maybe??): Your Best American Girl

--------

Anyone would have sold their soul to be (Y/n) (L/n) in 2020, but she wanted to be someone else.

Her senior year of high school, (Y/n) led her team to their first State Championship in over a decade. The whistle blew at the end of double overtime, and she walked off the court with a triple-double, along with her career-high of 41 points. 

But looking at the scoreboard, she was two points behind, one shot behind, and in second place. 

(Y/n) wouldn’t settle for less than first place in anything. It's not that she was competitive, just that she had so much to prove, that which came second hand with always getting first place.

The day after their loss, she was listed behind Paige Bueckers in second place among the class of 2020 high school recruits. 

Never in her life had she envied one person as she did in that moment.

_____________________

ESPN - May 5th, 2023

The recent news of (Y/n) (L/n)'s decision to enter the transfer portal in the NCAA women's basketball has sent shockwaves through the sports community. (L/n), a standout student-athlete, captured the hearts of fans nationwide with her remarkable performance in last season's March Madness. Despite her exceptional talent and single-handed efforts, her team fell short in the Elite Eight against UConn Women's Basketball, marking a bitter end to their journey. Now, with (Y/n) poised to switch schools, anticipation mounts as enthusiasts eagerly await her next move, wondering how her departure will reshape the landscape of collegiate basketball.

_____________________

[wolves-against-the-world]

Lycanthropy and the Body in Medieval Europe

Sourced from: Riddarvold, Stian (2023): Medieval perceptions of the Other in an extranormal community: The Case of Cornelius Vogelsang. Journal of Lycanthropic History, 2(3).

The perception of Monstrosity and Otherness in Medieval Europe has been analyzed in literature from the Icelandic sagas (Merkelbach, 2014) to Beowolf (Fahey, 2019; Cavell, 2014). [...] The Army of the Night (Exercitus noctis) is not documented well, many documents being destroyed upon its dissolution in the 1300s. Despite this, there has been a recent uptick in research about this unique military and social structure. Exclusively consisting of lycanthropes, it was still largely governed by medieval perceptions of monstrousness contingent with human society. This study will examine the norms surrounding monstrosity and the body in a lycanthropic context and their enforcement through the documented court case against Cornelius Vogelsang. Additionally, interviews were conducted with three werewolves who witnessed the trial, which will be referred to as P, Z, and M.

The Army of the Night was a military unit founded and led by Emicho VI., also known as Emicho the Crusader (ca. 1050-2020), to aid the crusades. The Army of the Night is only scarcely documented in official church records, though Emicho appears frequently in the Gesta Francorum and Historia Francorum. He is described as a capable, if ruthless, military leader building a strike force apart from the main, i.e. human, crusaders. While the lycanthropic nature of that force is not named directly, Gesta Francorum indicates a level of disconnect between the fighting units, describing the Army of the Night as simply "strange" (prodigiosus). After the failure of the first crusade, there is a large hole in the documentation, with Emicho and his troops only appearing in fragments. For a more general overview see Vanderbilt, 1989.

Monstrosity and Monstrousness in the Army of the Night

In the Middle Ages, monstrousness was a metaphor as well as a real state inherently linked to the soul. Monstrousness as a whole was heavily confounded with race, disability, and marginalization in literature and was heavily linked to the body. It was assumed that wickedness or sin would show on the body, the damnation of the soul made flesh here and in the afterlife. Unlike in many Christian faiths today, the soul was not seen as separate from the body. The state of the soul was reflected on the body and vice versa. Another important component was the mind: Reasoning ability was assumed to be inherently human, while the monstrous only followed instincts. The damned were thus made monstrous by the rejection of their very existence as a thinking being.

In the period of the Army's assembly and operations, monstrousness was not seen as inherently damning, as in, it was reversible. Repentance could still save the soul.

As eldritch lycanthropes change on a molecular level, they were permanently made monstrous, and were thus damned by merely existing. However, the visible signs of lycanthropy progress with age, giving rise to the idea that there was a timeframe in which one could still reverse the process. (see document B26-3682)

[Fragment of latin text describing a transformation and the idea that there is a way to "save" a werewolf]

The timeframes vary between 30-100 years, which correlates with the lifespans of werewolves in the Army of the Night as estimated by my interview partners (transcripts in Appendix A-C).

Werewolf P was a high-ranking officer in the Army and worked closely with Emicho VI. In regard to the Army's concept of salvation, he stated:

"If they [the chosen recruits] survived the turning, they were brought into the camp. They were told it was a punishment for their sins - that it came directly from God instead of, hm, that they were just unlucky I suppose. [...] It was a sin to be a werewolf, and you became a werewolf by sinning, so unless you were saved before the beast took over completely, you would be damned forever. Of course people figured out that it was Emicho and his officers who were turning people, but the fear kept them in line. Turning someone without permission and hiding it was also punishable by death. Not that most lived very long. They thought dying for the cause could save them."

This idea was reinforced by a lycanthropic trait that has not been studied outside of folklore until the modern day. When dying, the body will take the shape that is most aligned with the phase of the moon. Calculating the moonphase for recorded battles shows that most were fought during half or new moon. A dying wolf would thus turn back to humanoid form and seemingly confirm that they had been saved. This of course was only true for wolves young enough to not show outward signs that a medieval person could pick up on. Once again, this reinforced the time pressure the recruits faced.

Burial, too, was contingent on their body's and thus soul's state.

[...]

The case of Cornelius Vogelsang

To show how monstrousness informed social relationships even within an extranormal community, I will now examine the court case against Cornelius Vogelsang, a member of the Army of the Night that was executed on the fifth of March 1218 on account of sodomy and heresy. What makes this case interesting is that it is the only one still preserved in some detail.

The person in question first appears as either Hussein ibn al-Rahmud or Hassan ibn al-Rahmad in the list of new recruits on the retreat after the disastrous loss at Hattin (1187). He was recorded to be 20 years old, which is not out of place in the Army of the Night. (See document A34-3442)

A supplementary interview with the werewolf Z confirmed that Vogelsang had likely grow up Muslim, but "he didn't like to speak of it". (Appendix B) The name Cornelius Vogelsang appears first in the Army's 1188 census alongside the older name. He seemed to have christianized his name in order to fit in with the Europeans. The appendix "Vogelsang" was apparently given in reference to his singing prowess. In between his recruitment and sentencing there is no surviving documentation of his existence or actions.

The trial commenced in early February 1218. The town cannot be identified conclusively due to damage to the parchment, but the record was found in the abbey of St. John in Alzey. While this abbey was only founded in 1290, it still points towards the trial taking place in the region.

Vogelsang was indicted on charges of heresy and sodomy. He was accused of preaching heresies to young recruits, such as lycanthropy not being a reversible curse, but a natural state of being. In a second charge he was also accused of sodomy with an unknown man that could not be identified in the course of the trial. Document A44-3448 describes the other person involved as "indictus" (unnamed), which implies that the identity was known, but the person was not to be charged.

[Scan and transcript of the page detaiing the court proceedings.]

Sodomy in this period was defined as any sexual act not intended for procreation. In the Army of the Night, this rule extended to all sexual activity, as siring children while monstrous was perceived as a major threat both theologically and realistically. This did not mean the werewolves did not seek out women, but by the decree of 1123, any offspring was to be killed as soon as possible. [...] The primary affront of homosexual acts was not its usually recreational nature, but the "perversion of natural law" of one person taking on the role of the opposite sex. (Hart, 1990) [...]

Vogelsang was described as a "large, blue man" with "shoulders like oxen and hands like shovels". Blue in this context refers to all darker colors and was often used in texts to also denote wickedness, possibly with a racialized undertone (Sigurdsdottír, 2018). The description of his strength also marks him as threatening. In the following paragraph, he is described as wearing his hair in the style of a woman, and his "beard [does] not hide his weakness". This description makes sense when connected with the accusations of an unknown witness, who claims to have found Vogelsang "subdued and taking the part of the woman", i.e. being the receiving partner.

Vogelsang was sentenced to death by burning, and his eyes were gouged out as to forbid him from seeing God's splendor. This sentence is notably brutal, as most other documented death sentences were either executed through beheading or a silver dagger to the heart. It is not too far-fetched to assume the sentence was meant to be a deterrent. The destruction of the body was a highly symbolic act. It proclaimed Vogelsang to be beyond salvation, thus he was considered to have lost his soul and the privilege of burial.

Assuming all accusations are true, Cornelius Vogelsang knew that the soldiers were being lied to, and tried to disprove or at least challenge the reigning narrative. With said narrative as his primary tool, Emicho had good reason to fear an erosion of his power.

Vogelsang's identity (in the modern sense) also made him vulnerable: While race was not conceptualized the way it is today, being Middle Eastern could have been a visible reminder of his status as a convert. Z, who described himself as a "half-gypsy", recounted several instances of prejudice because of his appearance being used to challenge his status as a Christian.

The last of my three interview partners, M, added a completely new and unknown perspective. According to him, while there certainly was "some political shit going on", the sodomy accusation had actually resulted from jealousy. The accuser had previously been rejected by Vogelsang, and the accusation had been revenge. (see Appendix C)

The only defending voice in the trial came from an unnamed officer, whose description has been erased, seemingly on purpose.

[Scan of a document that had an entire paragraph scratched out]

The remaining account merely states that he protested the sentence and was silenced by his superior, one Bishop Anghelescu. Despite the intervention, the officer was sentenced to whipping and being marked by claw, i.e. having a visible part of his body scarred. The nature of this punishment served to make his monstrousness - in this case supporting a sinner - physically apparent.

Monstrousness as a state of damnation-until-saved informed both the social structures of the Army and the identity of werewolves within the group. At the same time, these concepts were used by Emicho VI. and the Catholic church as a whole to enact control upon a highly organized and effective strike force. Monstrousness was tied to gender, sexuality, religion, and race. Deviations both voluntary and involuntary could be cause for punishment including death. The case Vogelsang illustrates this use of theology in the name of control and power, as enacted by Emicho VI.

[religion-is-a-mental-illness]

By: Te-Ping Chen and  Lauren Weber

Published: Jul 21, 2023

Two years ago chief diversity officers were some of the hottest hires into executive ranks. Now, they increasingly feel left out in the cold.

Companies including Netflix, Disney and Warner Bros. Discovery have recently said that high-profile diversity, equity and inclusion executives will be leaving their jobs. Thousands of diversity-focused workers have been laid off since last year, and some companies are scaling back racial justice commitments.

Diversity, equity and inclusion—or DEI—jobs were put in the crosshairs after many companies started re-examining their executive ranks during the tech sector’s shake out last fall. Some chief diversity officers say their work is facing additional scrutiny since the Supreme Court struck down affirmative action in college admissions and companies brace for potential legal challenges. DEI work has also become a political target.

“There’s a combination of grief, being very tired, and being, in some cases, overwhelmed,” says Miriam Warren, chief diversity officer for Yelp, of the challenges facing executives in the field.

In interviews, current and former chief diversity officers said company executives at times didn’t want to change hiring or promotion processes, despite initially telling CDOs they were hired to improve the talent pipeline. The quick about-face shows company enthusiasm for diversity initiatives hasn’t always proved durable, leaving some diversity officers now questioning their career path. 

In the wake of George Floyd’s murder in police custody in May 2020, companies scrambled to hire chief diversity officers, changing the face of the C-suite. In 2018, less than half the companies in the S&P 500 employed someone in the role, and by 2022 three out four companies had created a position, according to a study from Russell Reynolds, an executive search firm. 

Once mostly tasked with HR matters, today’s diversity leaders are expected to weigh in on new product development, marketing efforts and current events that have an impact on how workers and consumers are feeling. Warren and other CDOs said the expanded remit is playing out in a politically divided environment where corporate diversity efforts are the subject of frequent social-media firestorms. 

Falling demand

New analysis from employment data provider Live Data Technologies shows that chief diversity officers have been more vulnerable to layoffs than their human resources counterparts, experiencing 40% higher turnover. Their job searches are also taking longer. 

“I got to 300 applications and then I stopped tracking,” says Stephanie Lubin, who was laid off from her role as diversity head at Drizly, an online alcohol marketplace, in May following the company’s acquisition by Uber. In one case, Lubin says she went through 16 rounds of interviews for a role she didn’t get, and says she is now planning to pivot out of DEI work.

The number of CDO searches is down 75% in the past year, says Jason Hanold, chief executive of Hanold Associates Executive Search, which works with Fortune 100 companies to recruit HR and DEI executives, among other roles. Demand is the lowest he has seen in his 30 years of recruiting.

At the same time, he says, more executives are feeling skittish about taking on diversity roles.

“They’re telling us, the only way I want to go into another role with DEI is if it includes something else,” he says of the requests for broader titles that offer more responsibilities and resources. He estimates that 60% of diversity roles he is currently filling combine the title with another position, such as chief human resources officer, up from about 10% five years ago.

During the pandemic, some companies moved people into diversity leadership if they were an ethnic minority, says Dani Monroe, even when they weren’t qualified. Monroe served as CDO for Mass General Brigham, a Boston-based hospital system and one of the largest employers in the state, until 2021 and convenes a yearly gathering of more than 100 CDOs.

“These were knee-jerk reactions,” she says of the hurried CDO hires, adding that some of those elevations didn’t create much impact, leaving both sides feeling disillusioned.

On-the-job obstruction 

American workers are split on the importance of a diverse workforce, surveys find. 

Diversity chiefs also encounter obstruction from top executives, says Melinda Starbird, a human resources and diversity executive who has worked at AT&T, Starbucks and OfferUp, an online marketplace. Leaders sometimes associate diversity efforts with mandates, such as the equal-employment rules that apply to federal contractors. Those requirements for compliance can create executive resistance that bleeds over into other cultural or policy shifts, such as adding Juneteenth as a company holiday, she says. 

“Even if you report to the CEO, it’s still a battle and it’s a smaller budget,” says Starbird, who was laid off from OfferUp in November during a broader restructuring. 

Many diversity executives feel a lack of buy-in from their colleagues. In a survey of 138 diversity executives conducted this spring by World 50 Group, a networking organization for corporate leaders, 82% said they had sufficient influence to do their job, down 6 percentage points from 2022. Asked if they felt supported by middle managers, 41% said yes, an 8-percentage-point drop.

Since the Supreme Court overturned affirmative action in June, companies are anticipating spillover legal action could have an impact on them. Those that are still hiring CDOs want people who can help the board navigate the political and legal landscape of diversity work and figure out how to take defensive moves to shield them from litigation, says Tina Shah Paikeday, global leader of Russell Reynolds’s diversity, equity and inclusion practice. 

“They recognize it would be smart to get ahead of that.”

People are more resistant to company-backed efforts to advance diversity when they are worried about their own jobs, whether because of impending layoffs or disruptions from AI, says David Kenny, chief executive of Nielsen, the media-ratings company. 

Kenny was both CEO and CDO for a time, taking on the diversity role to emphasize how important it was to the future of the business. Even as CEO, it could be a tough sell. Efforts to restructure compensation to make it more equitable created a backlash.

“A lot of it is, ‘I’m losing my slice of the pie,’ ” he says.

[ Via: https://archive.vn/jHRFo ]

==

The grift is over.

There seems to be a built-in implication that much of the movements around DIE in the last few years have been performative: organizations making the approved signals to keep the puritans at bay. Perhaps they've now figured out that these measures are, at best, unable to demonstrate their efficacy, or at worst, anti-productive. The number of DIE programs that can or even will quantify or demonstrate their effectiveness with metrics and data can be counted on one hand; the truly fanatical ones will scold you for even suggesting that you should. Or more likely, perhaps they've figured out that as an insurance policy, the impact to the bottom line is no longer worth the investment; throwing buckets of money to purchase indulgences during a moral-religious panic might have made sense in 2020, but not so much in 2023.

Study after study reveals that none of this social snakeoil - from the phrenology of "implicit bias training" to the Maoist struggle sessions of "white fragility training" - actually help, and reliably make things worse by making everyone fixate on identity politics rather than doing anything productive. Meaning DIE is nothing but expensive and destructive virtue signaling. If you want to destroy an organization from the inside, there's no better way than embracing DIE.

You're far better off sticking to your core telos, supported by liberal ethics like equal opportunity, colorblindness and the ideal of meritocracy. Or more formally, Merit, Fairness and Equality (MFE). Whatever results you get from a fair process are inherently fair.

"Diversity" in particular is always about superficiality and thinly-veiled racism, while "equity" requires someone in authority to artificially create preferred outcomes (establishing the perfect conditions for an authoritarian), rather than a system of fairly and consistently applied rules (equality).

I can name five people, men and women, where I work who have different ethic ancestry, who grew up within 40 miles of each other and have the same local accent.

And I can name five white men who grew up on four different continents with three different first languages, who have worked for over a dozen different organizations, from multi-national companies to military to non-profits to education institutions before immigrating.

"Diversity" apparatchiks don't acknowledge the diversity in the latter. Only, like any good racist, the bogus "diversity" in the former.

[weepingfireflies]

[Photo ID - a post by mspackyetti that reads:

If you are a white woman mad about what is happening to KateCox as we ALL should be, pls do me two favors:

1. Fight for BRITTANY WATTS as well, a 33 year old woman charged w a FELONY for trying to plunge her toilet after a miscarriage.

2. RECRUIT YOUR WHITE SISTERS. MORE white women voted for Trump in 2020 (55%) than in 2016 (47%). PLEASE do not rely on Black women to once again save democracy by trying to save ourselves.

Get YOUR house in order–and fight an intersectional fight.

👍🏾

/End ID]

Kate Cox:

Brittany Watts:

The War on Women is a war on all women. Don't let the media cover one story and not another.

Amplify the voices of the unheard.

[humanrightsupdates]

Time to End Business as Usual in Unlawful West Bank Settlements

World Court Ruling Shows Need for Action on UN Settlement “Database”

The United Nations’ core human rights agency is mandated to produce a database, updated annually, of businesses involved in Israel’s unlawful policy of establishing Jewish settlements in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem.

So far, this has been a political football, with some states like the United States rejecting the mandate and attempting to limit the agency’s resources, and the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) dragging its feet. The database was first published in 2020 – four years after it was mandated – and revised once in 2023. On Monday, the OHCHR issued a new report on the database without adding or removing any businesses but weakly asking for more time “given delays in the recruitment of staff to implement the mandate.”

A recent International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling, which found Israel’s presence in the West Bank is illegal, is a watershed development in international law and could give the database the importance it deserves.

Businesses should not enable, facilitate, or profit from serious violations of international law. What’s more, countries where businesses are located are obliged to prevent them behaving lawlessly and harming human rights at home or abroad.

Third states have their own obligations to prevent businesses making the violations in occupied Palestinian territory even worse. It’s in this connection that the July 19 ICJ opinion bolsters the importance of the UN’s mandate on settlement businesses.

[24livesunday]

Bushiri and Bester’s escape shines lights on SA’s weak border controls, Ramaphosa tells MPs

President Cyril Ramaphosa says a review of the country’s anti-corruption architecture is near completion.

ANC MP Thabo Mmutle asked Ramaphosa about the steps the government intends to take following the fleeing of Shepherd Bushiri, the July unrest and the escape of Thabo Bester from the Mangaung Correctional Centre.

Ramaphosa said his administration's resolve to ensure the safety and security of citizens is evident through, among other things, the significant increase in the resourcing of prosecutors and police.

“This budget will assist in the recruitment of more than 10 000 new police officers to be deployed countrywide to fight crime and additional prosecutors to tackle complex cases of corruption.

"To ensure that complex and high-level corruption cases are dealt with swiftly and efficiently, Special Commercial Crimes Courts have been established in all provinces and are being capacitated with technological tools to allow for virtual testimony and digital receipt of evidence,” Ramaphosa said.

The government has been left red-faced over the dramatic escape of Bester, a convicted murderer and rapist, who was believed to have died in cell 35 in May last year. Authorities conceded last month that Bester had escaped from prison after GroundUp revealed that the body found in the cell was not his.

Bushiri, the Enlightened Christian Gathering Church leader, and his wife skipped bail in November 2020, after being arrested for fraud and money laundering to the tune of R102 million linked to an investment scheme.

Bushiri also faces allegations of rape and human trafficking. In 2018, his lawyer lodged a complaint that his client was being extorted by police in relation to the case.

Ramaphosa said the review of the anti-corruption architecture would make proposals for enhancement of institutional architecture, which includes the proposals for an effective agency to fight corruption.

“Recent cases mentioned by [Mutle] highlight weak border controls in our country. The establishment of the Border Management Agency, with border guards who have been given certain peace officer powers, will help to address the weaknesses in border controls. Strengthening international cooperation with other countries, including mutual legal assistance and extradition matters, is a priority as we fight against all forms of transnational crimes,” Ramaphosa said.

Furthermore, the president said the ability of the criminal justice system to respond to crime needed to be complemented by long-term strategies to prevent crime happening in the first place.

“The Integrated Crime and Violence Prevention Strategy, which was adopted last year, recognises that the social and economic contributors to crime must be addressed collaboratively by all stakeholders. It also recognises that our response needs to be integrated and holistic,” he said.

The six pillars of the strategy are:

An effective criminal justice system;

Support to victims of crime;

Early social interventions to prevent crime and violence;

Effective and integrated service delivery;

Safety through environmental design and planning; and

Active public and community participation.

“In putting this strategy into practice, the security cluster is working to improve the efficiency, responsiveness and professionalism of the criminal justice sector while mobilising communities and establishing strategic partnerships to reduce crime and violence,” Ramaphosa said.

[pookalicious-hq]

Midnight Love - Prologue.

Paige Bueckers x Uconnwbb!Reader

next: 1 - See you again. || masterlist

Anyone would have sold their soul to be (Y/n) (L/n) in 2020.

Her senior year of high school, (Y/n) led her team to their first State Championship in over a decade. The whistle blew at the end of double overtime, and she walked off the court with a triple-double, along with her career-high of 41 points. 

But looking at the scoreboard, she was two points behind, one shot behind, and in second place. 

(Y/n) wouldn’t settle for less than first place in anything. 

It's not that she was competitive, just that she had so much to prove, that which came second hand with always getting first place.

The day after their loss, (Y/n) was listed behind Paige Bueckers in second place among the class of 2020 high school recruits. 

_______________________________

ESPN - May 5th, 2023

The recent news of (Y/n) (L/n)'s decision to enter the transfer portal in the NCAA women's basketball has sent shockwaves through the sports community. (L/n), a standout student-athlete, captured the hearts of fans nationwide with her remarkable performance in last season's March Madness. Despite her exceptional talent and single-handed efforts, her team fell short in the Elite Eight against UConn Women's Basketball, marking a bitter end to their journey. Now, with (L/n) poised to switch schools, anticipation mounts as enthusiasts eagerly await her next move, wondering how her departure will reshape the landscape of collegiate basketball.

_______________________________

The concrete beneath her soles wouldn’t give her a break. The endless scraping and crunching was enough to drive (Y/n) mad. 

This situation wasn’t the best. As of now, her junior year is over. Currently, she has no home court, except for the one in the alley behind her house. 

Who would’ve thought she would end up like this?

This off-season surpassed her last as the worst time of her life. But that’s being dramatic, (Y/n) had been through things much more trivial than playing basketball on a double-rimmed-no-net alley-way hoop. I mean, at least she hasn’t torn her ACL again (don’t worry, that isn’t foreshadowing).

At this moment, everyone was wondering: where the fuck is (Y/n) (L/n) going to play for her senior year? But (Y/n) wouldn’t give them the satisfaction of knowing.

It was an interesting choice, and to be completely honest, no one saw it coming. 

She wanted greatness. To win was to be the best. She would be the best.

But to do that, (Y/n) would have to play alongside the best.

In this day and age “the best” had been a person. Paige Bueckers. Her high school career had to be one of the most impressive of her time. Unfortunately for her injury, Paige wasn’t currently in the run for that title. Who better than (Y/n) to take it up for her on her team instead? Though it wouldn’t turn out that way, (Y/n) would at least fight for it.

--------- 

ESPN : (Y/n) (L/n) Makes a Power Move: Joins UConn Huskies

In a stunning turn of events, (Y/n) (L/n), the dynamic force who propelled her team to the cusp of victory in last season's March Madness, has announced her decision to transfer to the renowned UConn Huskies for her senior year.

(L/n)'s electrifying performances on the court have long been the talk of the basketball world, showcasing a blend of skill, formidable defensive IQ, and raw talent that few can match. Despite her team's heartbreaking loss against UConn Women's Basketball in the Elite Eight, (L/n)'s star continued to rise, drawing admiration and attention from fans and pundits alike.

For (L/n), the decision to join UConn represents an opportunity to challenge herself at the highest level of collegiate competition and pursue her dreams of achieving greatness within the world of women's basketball. With the support of her teammates and coaching staff, she is ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in her senior year.

As the countdown to the upcoming season begins, all eyes will be on (L/n) and her UConn teammates as they aim to solidify their place as one of the most dominant forces in women's college basketball. With (L/n)'s addition to the lineup, the future looks brighter than ever for the UConn Huskies, and fans eagerly await the electrifying moments that lie ahead on the court.

a/n: Okay so that's sorta like a prologue to this fic. So originally, I wrote this with my oc, but i feel like it would come across better on here as an reader insert so yeah. Yes the title is named after the mitski song and yes that does mean I will add some poc elements to this fic. Doesn't mean if you aren't a poc you won't relate to as many things but like yeah im making paige and readers relationship inspired from that song.

ANYWAYS I HOPE YOU LIKE IT lmk if you have any suggestions like plot wise or writing wise its been a while...

[prettyhennytea]

In the realm of women's basketball, there are individuals who not only excel as players but also make a lasting impact as coaches. Kara Lawson, the head coach of the Duke Blue Devils women's basketball team, is one such remarkable individual. Let's get into her inspiring journey from her childhood years to her current role as a trailblazing coach in the league. Kara Lawson was born and raised in Alexandria, Virginia. From an early age, she displayed an immense passion for basketball that would shape her future career. Growing up in a supportive family environment, she was encouraged to pursue her dreams and develop her skills on local courts. During high school at West Springfield High School in Virginia, Lawson quickly established herself as a standout player with exceptional talent and leadership qualities. Her dedication to improving both on and off the court earned her recognition among college recruiters across the nation. After completing high school with an impressive track record, Kara Lawson received numerous scholarship offers from esteemed universities across America. She ultimately decided to attend the University of Tennessee (UT), where she continued to shine brightly on the basketball court. Lawson's collegiate career at UT showcased her versatility as a player and leader within the team. Known for her sharpshooting ability from beyond the arc and exceptional court vision, she became an integral part of UT's success during those years while earning multiple accolades along the way. Following graduation from UT with numerous accomplishments under her belt, Kara Lawson set out to pursue professional opportunities within women's basketball leagues around the world. She played internationally before joining teams within domestic leagues such as WNBA teams like Sacramento Monarchs and Connecticut Sun. While playing professionally provided valuable experience and success for Lawson individually, she soon realized that coaching was her true calling. She transitioned into coaching roles, starting as an assistant coach for the Boston Celtics in the NBA. In 2020, Kara Lawson was appointed as the head coach of the Duke Blue Devils women's basketball team, marking a significant milestone in her career. Taking on this role allowed her to make a lasting impact on young athletes while shaping a program's future. Under Lawson's leadership, the Duke Blue Devils have experienced positive growth and development her. Her coaching style emphasizes strong fundamentals, strategic gameplay, and fostering a positive team culture. She instills confidence in her players while pushing them to reach their full potential both on and off the court. Lawson's commitment extends beyond basketball skills; she prioritizes mentorship and personal growth for her players. By creating an environment that values teamwork, resilience, and self-belief, she empowers young athletes to excel not only athletically but also academically and personally. Kara Lawson's journey from childhood dreams to becoming an influential head coach is truly inspiring. From showcasing exceptional talent during high school years to playing professionally around the world before finding fulfillment in coaching at both NBA and college levels, she has consistently demonstrated dedication and passion for women's basketball. As head coach of the Duke Blue Devils women's basketball team today, Kara Lawson continues to shape young athletes into well-rounded individuals both on and off the court. Through her leadership style rooted in mentorship and personal growth, she leaves an indelible mark on those under her guidance. Lawson serves as a role model for aspiring coaches who seek to make their mark within women's basketball by exemplifying that hard work combined with unwavering determination can lead one towards achieving their goals. Her impact on the Duke Blue Devils program is already evident through positive strides made by both individual players and the team as a whole.

[dfhsheh]

List of Jeffrey Epstein's associates named in lawsuit can be unsealed, judge rules. Here are details on the document release.

Update: The court documents were released starting Wednesday, Jan. 3. Read the latest here. Our earlier story is below.

A list of Jeffrey Epstein's alleged victims and associates — some of whom have been accused of being involved in the disgraced financier's exploitation and abuse of underage girls — could be unsealed and made public as soon as today. That comes after a judge ruled in mid-December that the information should be unsealed, but delayed the release until January to give those involved time to appeal their listing.

Documents with names of Jeffrey Epstein's contacts have been unsealed — here are key takeaways

More than 150 names may be made public as part of a settled civil lawsuit against British socialite Ghislaine Maxwell — who was found guilty of conspiring with Epstein to sexually abuse underage girls for at least a decade — brought by Virginia Giuffre, who accused Maxwell of recruiting her for abuse.

Giuffre has called Maxwell "the mastermind" behind Epstein's sex trafficking ring.

The list of names could include Epstein's accused co-conspirators as well as a wide range of people listed in the lawsuit. 

Giuffre told CBS News in July 2020 that Maxwell had access to very well-known people, including "government officials, politicians and royalty."

Judge Loretta Preska said they would be released in January to give the people listed in the court filing enough time to appeal the decision. It is unclear whose names are on the list, but many of them have already been mentioned in the media, Preska noted in her ruling. 

What documents will be unsealed?

Judge Preska listed 187 "J. Does" on the court documents and ruled many of them should be "unsealed in full." Some of those "J.Does" appear twice, and others are minors, so it is not yet known what the final tally of names released will be. 

Epstein's associates were named in a settled civil defamation suit filed by Virginia Giuffre in 2015 against Maxwell.

The judge detailed the reasoning behind the publication of the names, noting that many had already been mentioned in the media. For others, the substance in question was not salacious and should not be kept sealed, the rulings said.

Some "J. Does" are minors and possible victims, and Preska ruled that those names and "any identifying information" will remain sealed. 

When will the list of names be released?

The ruling stated that the list of names is expected to be made public in January, after giving the listed "J. Does" about 14 days to object to the publication of their names. 

The ruling allows any "impacted Doe the opportunity to appeal," the court documents said. After the window to appeal closes, the documents will be unsealed and posted to the docket. 

What were the accusations against Epstein?

Epstein was accused of sexually assaulting countless teenage girls, some of them as young as 14 years old, according to prosecutors. Epstein allegedly exploited a vast network of underage girls for him and his wealthy clients to have sex with at his homes in Manhattan; Palm Beach, Florida; and his private island near St. Thomas. He was also accused of utilizing a network of employees to ensure continued access to victims. 

Britain's Prince Andrew is one of the high-profile figures who has been accused of being one of Epstein's alleged co-conspirators. Giuffre has alleged that she and the British royal had sex in three locations when she was underage. Andrew has denied any wrongdoing and has said he didn't know anything about Epstein's criminal behavior. 

Epstein was charged by federal prosecutors in 2019 with one count of sex trafficking conspiracy and one count of sex trafficking with underage females. The 66-year-old financier died by suicide in his jail cell in Manhattan a little over a month after being arrested. Charges against him were dropped after his death. 

In June, JPMorgan Chase reached a $290 million settlement with victims of Epstein over claims the bank overlooked the financier's sex trafficking and abuse because it wanted to profit from a banking relationship with him.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to clarify that the list is expected to be released in January, not a specific date.

[wmproprt]

Victor Davis Hanson @VDHanson

The Colorado Insurrection

@realDonaldTrump is being erased from the Colorado primary (and general?) ballot, by warping the 14th Amendment, and in a way never envisioned by its creators.

So now can one be guilty by fiat of Confederacy-like “insurrection,” when he has never been charged with, much less convicted of, such a crime?

How can a buffoonish January 6th riot become an “insurrection,” when no one was armed, there was no plan to seize power, and protestors were advised by the purported insurrectionist leader “to peacefully and patriotically make your voices heard”?

As far as election insurrectionary interference, why did liberal journalist Molly Ball label the leftwing effort to defeat Donald Trump in the 2020 election a “cabal” (e.g., “That’s why the participants want the secret history of the 2020 election told, even though it sounds like a paranoid fever dream–a well-funded cabal of powerful people, ranging across industries and ideologies, working together behind the scenes to influence perceptions, change rules and laws, steer media coverage and control the flow of information”)?

And why did Ball double-down and further call it a “conspiracy” (“There was a conspiracy unfolding behind the scenes, one that both curtailed the protests and coordinated the resistance from CEOs. Both surprises were the result of an informal alliance between left-wing activists and business titans, of CEOs, Silicon Valley billionaires, street protestors…Their work touched every aspect of the election. They got states to change voting systems and laws and helped secure hundreds of millions in public and private funding. They fended off voter-suppression lawsuits, recruited armies of poll workers and got millions of people to vote by mail for the first time. They successfully pressured social media companies to take a harder line against disinformation and used data-driven strategies to fight viral smears.”)?

As far as efforts to nullify the popular vote, do we remember the pathetic 2016 ensemble of C-list Hollywood celebrities (e.g., Martin Sheen, Debra Messing, James Cromwell, BD Wong, Noah Wyle, Freda Payne, Bob Odenkirk, J. Smith Cameron, Michael Urie, Moby, Mike Farrell, Loretta Swit, Christine Lahti, Steven Pasquale, Dominic Fumusa and Emily Tyra)?

They were drafted by leftwing groups to cut commercials urging the electors to reject their constitutional duties of reflecting their states’ popular votes, and instead, as faithless electors, to vote instead for Hillary Clinton, the loser in their respective states’ popular votes.

How did they rationalize that anti-constitutional gambit? Well, remember Martin Sheen’s shameless sophistry to ignore the Constitution and the election results?

“As you know, our founding fathers built the Electoral College to safeguard the American people from the dangers of a demagogue, and to ensure that the presidency only goes to someone who is to an eminent degree endowed with the requisite qualifications.”

So what makes a high elected official an insurrectionist?

Current or past advocacy for using violence against the government, as represented by, say, the Supreme Court?

Or urging on more protests that had already turned violent, eventually leading to 35 deaths, 1,500 injured police officers, $1-2 billion in property damage, and a torched courthouse, police headquarters, and iconic church?

Attempting to break into the White House grounds? Sending the president into a secure underground bunker?

If so, remember Kamala Harris’s summer 2020 boasts about the protests that, she knew (contrary to “fact checkers”) had already a long history of violence:

“But they're not gonna stop. They're not gonna stop, and this is a movement, I'm telling you. They're not gonna stop, and everyone beware, because they're not gonna stop. They're not gonna stop before Election Day in November, and they're not gonna stop after Election Day. Everyone should take note of that, on both levels, that they're not going to let up — and they should not. And we should not.”

What was the Senate minority leader Chuck Schumer intending, when in 2020 he incited a throng at the very doors of the Supreme Court, warning of violence to come to two justices whom he called out by name?

“I want to tell you Gorsuch. I want to tell you Kavanaugh. You have released the whirlwind and you will pay the price. You won’t know what hit you if you go forward with these awful decisions.”

“Hit you”?

Now we have ballot suppression to add to the long list of farces, hoaxes, and lies all designed to destroy a candidate who otherwise might win popular support for an agenda the majority of Americans have consistently supported.

So the leftwing Colorado Justices join the “Russian collusion” spectacle, the Alfa Bank “pink” hoax, the “Russian disinformation” laptop ruse, the precedent breaking two impeachments of a president in his first term, the caper of trying an ex-president as a private citizen in the senate, and the ploy of raiding an ex-president’s home.

What exactly is the Left doing?

They accept they have no majority support for the current President or his agenda. They fear the voters will elect a Republican. They are horrified that it might be Donald Trump, whom they especially loathe. And they are terrified that Trump might do to them what they would certainly do if they were in his position.

The Left is mightily frustrated that after controlling all the sources of information, communications, and institutions (e.. CEOs, traditional and social media, entertainment, the Internet, Silicon Valley, academia, K-12, foundations, sports, and popular culture, etc.), and having a vast advantage in fund raising and money, they still cannot stop the will of the majority.

And the Left wages lawfare because they assume the Right is either too timid, too incompetent, too preoccupied, or too principled to reciprocate in kind—especially given they gloat that there were never any consequences for all the past hoaxes and ruses they perpetuated.

But this time they may have jumped the proverbial shark and shown themselves to be the true and only insurrectionists that will face the consequences of any angry public in November 2024.

9:28 PM · Dec 20, 2023

@VDHanson

https://x.com/VDHanson/status/1737661200866136571?s=20

[meghalayacareer]

Meghalaya High Court Recruitment 2023: System Officer & JAA Vacancy

Meghalaya High Court Recruitment 2023: Meghalaya High Court has released an employment notification to recruit System Officer and Junior Administrative Assistant (JAA) posts. The last date for submission of the application is 20.12.2023. 1. Post Name:- System Officer No of posts1 Age limit18 to 32 years. Upper age relaxation up to 5 years for ST candidates.SalaryPay level-16, Rs. 49,000/-Essential QualificationB.E/B. Tech in Computer Science/ BCA or Masters Degree in Computer Engineering/ IT/ Computer Applications. 2. Post Name:- Junior Administrative Assistant (JAA) No of posts5 Age limit18 to 32 years. Upper age relaxation up to 5 years for ST candidates.SalaryPay level-10, Rs. 35,100/-Essential QualificationBachelor’s degree from a recognized University with Computer Knowledge.

How to apply for Meghalaya High Court Recruitment 2023: System Officer & JAA Vacancy?

Candidates are advised to apply and submit their applications strictly online by clicking on the “Online Application” icon on the website viz. www.meghalayahighcourt.nic.in. For candidates applying for the first time through online mode, a one-time registration process is required to enable them to apply against the advertised vacancies/posts. The last date for receiving online applications is on 20th December 2023 by 17:00 hours. Applications received through any other mode shall not be accepted and will be summarily rejected. Application Fee Application Fees for the said posts for general applicants are Rs. 400/-(Rupees Four hundred) only and Rs. 200/-(Rupees Two hundred) only for Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe. Advertisement No:- HCM.11/109/2020-Rect/3466 (Date: 20.11.2023) Those who wish to apply are advised to go through the below official notification in detail before submitting applications. Online Application LinkClick HereDownload Official NotificationClick HereGet Job Updates on FacebookClick Here Read the full article

[school-of-pe]

Advantages of Having a PE License as a Chemical Engineer

Engineers that want to have a successful career in the field of chemicals can take and pass the PE chemical exam. Do you want to know the benefits? This blog highlights the various scopes of a chemical engineer.

Passing the PE chemical exam helps you stand out above your peers and expand your opportunities as a successful chemical engineer.

Develops a Personal Achievement

Earning a professional license can help you gain status and achievement and improve your professional abilities. After completing your four years of work experience, those who pass the Principles and Practice of Engineering-chemical exam will receive a PE chemical license.

Legal Standing

A PE License in chemical engineering enables you to acquire legal status. Only a licensed engineer is allowed to undertake the fundamental responsibility of the design work and sign and stamp the related work. With a PE license, you can bid on contracts with the government or submit your design plan to the private sector for their approval of the projects. As a chemical engineer with a PE license, you can appear as an expert witness in court.

Refines your Engineering Skills

Preparing for the PE chemical exam helps you expand your knowledge and refine your skills. Also, the test enables you to focus on various specialties.

Advanced Opportunities

Obtaining a PE license brings you more opportunities and labels you as an exceptional professional in your chosen field. You will gain respect from your coworkers and management.

Job Preferences

Securing a PE license in chemical engineering brings you various job options. Many recruiters will be ready to hire you for your expert knowledge and solution. Though you work in a respectable position under your supervisor, the perks are not limited. You can start an independent firm, develop a product, and sell your products/services to the public.

Hefty Pay

A PE license in chemical engineering enhances your career choices with lucrative wages. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics report stated that the average salary of a chemical engineer is $114,820 in 2020. You can look for various entry-level positions to high-paying managerial roles and responsibilities. Also, many employers give salary bonuses to recognize your work for a year.

Conclusion

Do you want to acquire a professional license in chemical engineering? Begin your PE chemical engineering exam right away. You can take the review courses from the School of PE and access our course materials, lecture notes, practice problems, and more to enhance your preparation. For more information visit: https://www.schoolofpe.com/pechemical/

[shortfeedshq]

"From Poverty to the Pros: The Inspiring Journey of Lonnie Walker IV, San Antonio Spurs Shooting Guard

Lonnie Walker IV is an American professional basketball player who currently plays as a shooting guard for the San Antonio Spurs in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He was born on December 14, 1998, in Reading, Pennsylvania. Lonnie was a five-star recruit out of high school and played college basketball for the Miami Hurricanes. He was selected by the San Antonio Spurs in the first round of the 2018 NBA draft. Table of Contents: - Early Life and High School Career - College Career - Professional Career - Personal Life - Net Worth - FAQ's Early Life and High School Career Lonnie Walker IV was born in Reading, Pennsylvania. He grew up with his mother and grandmother and had a difficult childhood, experiencing poverty and homelessness. Despite these hardships, Lonnie found a love for basketball and began playing at a young age. He attended Reading High School, where he played basketball for the Red Knights. During his high school career, Lonnie was a standout player and a five-star recruit. He was ranked as the 19th best player in the country by ESPN and was named the Pennsylvania Player of the Year. College Career After graduating from high school, Lonnie Walker IV attended the University of Miami to play college basketball. During his freshman season, he averaged 11.5 points and 2.6 rebounds per game. He missed the first five games of his sophomore season due to a torn meniscus but came back strong and improved his scoring average to 16.6 points per game. Following his sophomore season, Lonnie declared for the 2018 NBA draft. Professional Career Lonnie Walker IV was selected by the San Antonio Spurs with the 18th overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft. He played limited minutes during his rookie season, averaging 2.6 points per game. In his second season, Lonnie saw an increase in playing time and improved his scoring average to 6.4 points per game. He had a breakout game on January 6, 2020, where he scored a career-high 28 points against the Houston Rockets. In the 2020-2021 season, Lonnie continued to improve his game, averaging 11.2 points per game and shooting 36.3% from three-point range. Personal Life Lonnie Walker IV is known for his philanthropic efforts and has been involved in several charitable organizations. He has donated money to help the homeless in Reading, Pennsylvania, and has worked with organizations that provide education and resources to underprivileged youth. Lonnie is also a practicing Christian and often posts about his faith on social media. Net Worth As of May 2023, Lonnie Walker IV's net worth is estimated to be around $8 million. His income comes from his NBA salary, endorsements, and investments. FAQ's Q: What is Lonnie Walker's jersey number? A: Lonnie Walker IV wears jersey number 1 for the San Antonio Spurs. Q: What is Lonnie Walker's height? A: Lonnie Walker IV is 6 feet 5 inches (1.96 meters) tall. Q: What position does Lonnie Walker play? A: Lonnie Walker IV plays as a shooting guard for the San Antonio Spurs. Q: What is Lonnie Walker's highest-scoring game? A: Lonnie Walker IV's highest-scoring game was on January 6, 2020, when he scored 28 points against the Houston Rockets. Q: What charitable organizations is Lonnie Walker involved in? A: Lonnie Walker IV has donated money to help the homeless in Reading, Pennsylvania, and has worked with organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, which provides resources and education to underprivileged youth. Q: What is Lonnie Walker's playing style? A: Lonnie Walker IV is known for his athleticism and explosiveness on the court. He is also a solid defender and has been praised for his work ethic and commitment to improving his game. Q: What are Lonnie Walker's future plans? A: As of now, Lonnie Walker IV is focused on continuing to improve his game and helping the San Antonio Spurs succeed. However, he has expressed a desire to give back to his hometown of Reading, Pennsylvania, and to continue his philanthropic efforts in the future. Lonnie Walker IV's journey from a difficult childhood to becoming a successful NBA player is an inspiring story. He has overcome numerous obstacles to achieve his dreams and has used his platform to make a positive impact in his community. With his talent and work ethic, Lonnie has a bright future ahead of him in the NBA, and his philanthropic efforts off the court show that he is committed to making a difference in the world. Read the full article

[cameronpleasant]

A fun, intense and energetic coach worth a closer look.

A small town, a closely-knit community, and a good public high school are what most folks from Western Massachusetts like to think their lives consist of. One specific resident of Western Mass and the head coach of the varsity basketball team at Frontier Regional School is a very interesting story. Joshua Morse or as many of his former players and friends know him, Coach Josh is a former player himself at Colby-Sawyer College from 1993-1994 season as a junior until his senior year from 1994-1995. His son, Owen Morse, is a student at Colby-Sawyer College and plays on the basketball team.

This past year was Morse’s first season as varsity head coach at Frontier, he had previously served as the JV head coach and assistant to former head coach Ben Barshefsky. Morse spent the 2021-2022 season as a member of the Wilbraham-Monson high school coaching staff before returning to Frontier this past season. As JV coach at Frontier, Morse led the 2019-2020 Redhawks to their first 20-0 season in the program's history.

Morse’s philosophies have always revolved around pushing the ball down court and playing intense defense, forcing the other team into mistakes and taking advantage of those mistakes. It took nearly the entire first half of the season, but eventually Frontier began to show their coaches heart and style out on the court, running up and down the court and out hustling the other team. 

After many years of talent running through Frontier under coach Ben Barshefsky, this past season there was a noticeable difference in overall size and skill on the basketball team. Barshefsky almost always had multiple players at 6’ 6” or taller at his disposal, which nowadays is unheard of in high school basketball. As recently as the 2019-2020 season, Frontier had junior starting center 6’ 10” Peter Carey, who currently plays at Syracuse University, and sixth man forward/center Collin Boudreau who was about 6’ 6” at the time. 

Morse was still able to guide his team to a state tournament appearance even without this luxury, in which they were ultimately defeated by Whittier Tech. Frontier was able to hang in the game for three full quarters, but missing four key players and a nearly two hour bus ride eventually caught up to them. Nonetheless, Frontier making the postseason this year was extremely impressive. They started out the season with a subpar 3-5 record. When it mattered most, they stepped up, winning four of their final six games to reach the tournament. Coach Morse in his first season did as incredible of a job coaching as he always has. Against many odds, he along with Frontier overcame it all.

Frontier’s biggest statement win of the season came on January 30 against an at the time undefeated Hopkins Academy team. Hopkins, currently ranked as the 7th best among all division five teams in the state, was 12-0 before coming into Frontier Regional to be upset by the Redhawks. On their senior night, Frontier had easily their best performance of the season.

Frontier’s success over the years would not be possible without some assistance from their student section, known widely around Western Mass as the “Frontier Sixth Man.” This crowd has enraged many opposing players as it is a brutal experience to go against both them and the Redhawks in Goodnow Gymnasium. 

In addition to coaching at Frontier, Morse has also been involved with Mass Elite Basketball. Mass Elite is a program in which the best basketball players in the state compete at local, regional, and national levels of basketball. It also serves as a showcase for the players to display their skill to recruiters and coaches from prep schools and colleges. Mass Elite has programs for both men and women. Coach Morse has won a Mass Elite Coach of the Year Award and was recently inducted into their Hall of Fame.

The Official Announcement of Coach Morse's induction into the Mass Elite Hall of Fame.

Coach Morse is Mass Elite's Coach of the Year!

Frontier warms up for their win or go home game at Whittier Tech School, (coaches point of view.)

Fans perspective of the starting lineup introductions.

Coach Morse demands better defense from his team following an early timeout.

Coach Morse calls out an offensive sequence, frustrated after a turnover on the previous possession.

[prettyhennytea]

In the realm of women's basketball, there are individuals who possess an innate ability to inspire and lead. Alex Simmons, the head coach of the University of Memphis Tigers women's basketball team, is one such individual. Let's get into her remarkable journey from her childhood years to her current role as a trailblazing coach in the league. During high school at Olive Branch High School in Mississippi, Simmons emerged as a standout player. Her exceptional athleticism and dedication propelled her team to success while earning numerous accolades along the way. As she excelled on both ends of the court, college recruiters took notice. After completing high school with an impressive track record, Alex Simmons received several scholarships offers from esteemed universities across the country. She ultimately decided to attend Mississippi State University (MSU), where she continued to make waves with her exceptional play. Simmons' collegiate career at MSU showcased her versatility as a player. Known for her tenacity on defense and scoring prowess on offense, she became an integral part of MSU's success during those years. Her contributions helped elevate MSU's program while also solidifying herself as one of their all time greats. Following graduation from MSU, Alex Simmons set out to pursue professional opportunities within women's basketball leagues around the world. She played internationally before joining various teams within domestic leagues such as American Basketball Association (ABA) teams like Nashville Noise and Atlanta Vision. While playing professionally provided valuable experience, Simmons soon realized her true calling lay in coaching. She transitioned into coaching roles at the collegiate level, where she could share her knowledge and passion for the game with aspiring athletes. In 2020, Alex Simmons was appointed as the head coach of the University of Memphis Tigers women's basketball team. Taking on this significant role allowed her to make a lasting impact on young athletes while shaping a program's future. Under Simmons' guidance, the University of Memphis Tigers have experienced positive growth and development. Her leadership has instilled a winning culture within the team while emphasizing player development and academic excellence. With each passing season, she continues to elevate both individual players and the program as a whole. Simmons' approach extends beyond basketball skills; she prioritizes mentorship and personal growth for her players. By fostering an environment that emphasizes teamwork, resilience, and self-belief, she empowers her athletes to excel not only on the court but also in life beyond basketball. Alex Simmons journey from childhood dreams to becoming an influential head coach is truly inspiring. From showcasing her talent during high school years to playing professionally around the world before finding fulfillment in coaching collegiate teams, she has consistently demonstrated dedication and passion for women's basketball. As head coach of the University of Memphis Tigers women's basketball team today, Alex Simmons continues to shape young athletes into well-rounded individuals both on and off court. Through her leadership style rooted in mentorship and personal growth, she leaves in indelible mark on those under her guidance. Simmons serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring coaches who seek to make their mark within women's basketball by demonstrating that hard work combined with unwavering determination can lead one towards achieving their goals.