#board made January 12 2023

[stimboardboy]

(almost) looping anime gifs

x - x - x | x - x - x | x - x - x

[seepunkrun]

Notes from the Nov 12 OTW Public Board Meeting

Today's Agenda:

Decisions made since the last public board meeting

Welcome new Board members

Announce officer roles

Diversity update

Any other business

Decisions taken since last meeting:

Approved Finance requests

Approved new chairs for Fanlore, Support, and Strategic Planning

Granted preliminary approval for complaint management system

Created Twitter report for impersonation account

Approved new committee formation - Board Assistants Team

Approved new chairs for Board Assistants Team

Signed onto a letter opposing the Stop CSAM Act introduced in the US Senate

This meeting ran much more smoothly than the last due to the new rules and the way questions were handled. The first roll call showed 91 guests, and the last showed 88. Anh, as president, ran the meeting and got through the cut and paste business quickly, leaving 40 minutes for questions.

The diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) update was very brief but contained long awaited news:

We're delighted to announce that we've signed a contract with a consulting firm, who will be working with us on an organizational culture audit. (If you were wondering about the unlabeled $96,000 line item in the budget, this was it!) The consulting firm has already completed an initial survey and begun interviewing volunteers, and will continue this process over the next few weeks. DEI subject matter experts will be involved and consulted throughout the process. We are incredibly excited to work with them and make the OTW a better, more inclusive place!

Later, in response to my question asking for more details, Zixin said they would not be sharing information about the firm in order to protect them from possible harassment and that they don't have a sense of how many people at the firm will be working on this or for how long. They expect a preliminary report by the end of January 2024 and will give updates at the next public meeting.

Considering how long we've been waiting for progress on the DEI consultant, getting a report from them by January feels lightning fast, but history suggests the next Board meeting won't be until March, so it'll probably be a while before that information reaches us.

Also of note was the question of paid staff: Has the board been looking into hiring a volunteer to look into hiring paid staff? Is there a timeline for hiring paid staff?

Kathryn S responded:

We do have a timeline for Paid Staff Transition in our Strategic Planning 2023-2026: The Volunteers & Recruiting Committee has been working on finding an external HR firm for the organization for several months. There are two main goals behind for the OTW behind this initiative: • To help the OTW create a better environment for its volunteers by reviewing our current org-wide policies and procedures and creating new ones when needed; • To help the OTW transition from a fully volunteer-based organization to hiring our first employee. The committee has interviewed several firms, but the size and global scope of the OTW's volunteer and user bases make it a complicated project. They are still meeting with candidate firms and exploring potential alternatives.

I asked a follow up to this, a request for an update on the search for a Paid Staff Transition Officer, but it did not make it before the Board during the relevant conversation, or in the meeting at all. I used the double arm (o//) to indicate it was a follow up question, but it still depended on votes to get in front of them, which feels like a flaw in the system, but I'll get an answer eventually, see below.

People asked a lot of good questions, and we got answers for the promised ten, even though it made the meeting run about twenty minutes longer than its scheduled hour. Some of the topics covered: confidentiality policy for Board and the emergency procedures promised to volunteers; Finance investing OTW's money to avoid being solely dependent on donors; evaluation and improvement of the Constructive Corrective Action Procedure (CCAP procedure); progress on the ToS review; proposed subcommittee to handle complaints and conflicts within the OTW; complaint management system for volunteers.

If you'd like to learn more, I recommend joining the OTW Discord and reading back through the #public-board-meetings channel, which is pretty straightforward now that Board members are the only ones allowed to post there. If you've already joined, you can use this link to jump to the top of the Nov 12 meeting.

The meeting closed with the news that the Board is planning to release a high-level overview of their timeline that includes their goals for the 2023-2024 Board Year at the next public meeting.

The questions that didn't get answered during this meeting will be answered in the #questions-answers channel starting in two weeks. So expect those around November 26, when the Board will begin posting weekly Q&A threads.

[beardedmrbean]

Turkish air strikes in drought-struck north-east Syria have cut off access to electricity and water for more than a million people, in what experts say may be a violation of international law.

Turkey carried out more than 100 attacks between October 2019 and January 2024 on oil fields, gas facilities and power stations in the Kurdish-held Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), according to data collated by the BBC World Service.

The attacks have added to the humanitarian crisis in a region reeling from a years-long civil war and four years of extreme drought exacerbated by climate change.

Water had already been scarce, but attacks on electricity infrastructure in October last year shut off power to the region’s main water station, in Alouk, and it has not been working since. On two visits there, the BBC witnessed people struggling to get water.

Turkey said it had targeted the “sources of income and capabilities” of Kurdish separatist groups it regards as terrorists.

It said that it was well known there was a drought in the area, adding that poor water management and neglected infrastructure had made things worse.

The AANES has previously accused Turkey of seeking to “destroy our people’s existence”.

More than a million people in the Hassakeh province who once got their water from Alouk now rely on deliveries of water pumped from around 12 miles (20km) away.

Hundreds of deliveries are made by tanker each day, with the water board prioritising schools, orphanages, hospitals, and those most in need.

But the deliveries are not enough for everyone.

In Hassakeh city, the BBC saw people waiting for the tankers, pleading for the drivers to give them water. “Water is more precious than gold here,” said Ahmad al-Ahmed, a tanker driver. “People need more water. All they want is for you to give them water.”

Some people admitted they fought over it and one woman threatened: “If he [the tanker driver] doesn’t give me water, I’ll puncture his tyres.”

“Let me tell you frankly, north-east Syria is facing a humanitarian catastrophe,” said Yayha Ahmed, co-director of the city water board.

People living in the region have been caught up not only in Syria’s ongoing civil war but also in Turkey’s conflict with Kurdish-led forces, who established the AANES in 2018 after they - with support from the US-led coalition - drove the Islamic State (IS) group out of the region. Coalition forces are still stationed there to prevent a resurgence of IS.

Turkey’s President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has described the AANES - which is not officially recognised by the international community - as a “terror state” next to its border.

The Turkish government considers the Kurdish militia that dominates the main military force there to be an extension of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) rebel group, which has fought for Kurdish autonomy in Turkey for decades.

The PKK is designated as a terrorist organisation by Turkey, the EU, the UK and the US.

Between October 2023 and January 2024, electricity transfer stations in three areas of the AANES were struck: Amouda, Qamishli, and Darbasiyah, as well as the region’s main power plant, Swadiyah.

The BBC confirmed the damage by using satellite imagery, eyewitness videos, news reports, and visits to the sites.

Satellite imagery of night-time lights from before and after the January 2024 attacks indicated a widespread power outage. “On January 18th.... a significant power outage is evident in the region,” said Ranjay Shrestha, a scientist at Nasa who reviewed the imagery.

The UN says Turkish forces carried out the strikes in Swadiyah, Amuda and Qamishli, while humanitarian groups say Turkey was behind the attack in Darbasiyah.

Turkey said it had been targeting the PKK, the People's Protection Units (YPG) and the Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD).

The YPG is the biggest militia in the US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces and is the military wing of the PYD, the main political party in the AANES.

“Civilians or civilian infrastructure were not among our targets and have never been,” Turkey said in a statement to the BBC.

But in October last year, the country’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan said all “infrastructure, superstructure and energy facilities” that belong to the PKK and the YPG - especially in Iraq and Syria - were “legitimate targets” for its military, security forces and intelligence units.

[kozyndan]

"Strength In Numbers (Bunny Avalanche)" 12 x 12 inches acrylic gouache on board 2023

UPDATE: SOLD!

Kozy - We sent this painting off to be in an exhibition at COREY HELFORD GALLERY in Los Angeles. 

Bunnies have been a recurring character in our artwork since the very first year of our career working together.  Dan sketched up this illustration in December as the year of the Tiger (2022) was drawing to a close, and the year of the Rabbit (2023) was about to begin so as to commemorate this new lunar year, as well as “celebrate the power of cooperation to overcome daunting odds!” (Those are his words, I think he just wanted to draw more rabbits for all you @kozyndan rabbit fans out there!). 

This work was made using the same process as the “California Bunnywave” - Dan drew the lines and colored it just how he imagined the final art to look in Procreate and then printed that illustration for me to trace the basic lines onto a 12 x 12 inch cradled board and then paint with acrylic gouache. I got use my new toy, a little USB chargeable airbrush, again for this painting. This is now my second time using an airbrush and its been fun to explore the new tool as I used it to make the snow in this painting. I tried to stick close to what Dan imagined and just got lost in the process - figuring our how to make the snow, and then all the brush painted lifework afterwards. Its actually a quite meditative process for me - and I find myself listening to a lot of meditative sort of podcasts and music while I do this kind of painting process. It was a lovely way to finish out the year! The “Art Collector Starter Kit” exhibition opened January 28th, 2023.Happy new Year to Everyone!!! 

We are so grateful for your support!

[usafphantom2]

IMAGES: Russia resumes production of modernized Tu-160 bombers

Russia plans to eventually buy 50 new Tu-160M and modernize 15 existing Tu-160.

Fernando Valduga By Fernando Valduga 02/22/2024 - 08:17 in Military

Russia restarted the production of the Tupolev-160 strategic bombers, known as Blackjack, with the announcement coming from Sergey Chemezov, CEO of the state company Rostec.

"Restarting the production of the Tu-160 was quite a task for all Rostec affiliates. The project documentation was fully digitized within the tightest deadlines. The vacuum welding technique of titanium parts was restored and the production of fuselage units was resumed. Today we can safely say that we have been successful in all aspects," he said, according to the Russian state media.

The updated Tu-160M maintains the exterior design of its predecessor, but incorporates a technological base and completely new digital solutions.

The recent visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to the S.P. aviation factory. Gorbunov Kazan, in Tartaristan, where he inspected four updated strategic bombers, drew attention amid concerns about the country's military capabilities.

The Tu-160, recognized as the largest and most powerful supersonic aircraft with wings of variable geometry in the history of military aviation, underwent an update program initiated by Putin's decision.

The government contract, signed between the Ministry of Industry and Commerce and the Tupolev design department, facilitated the digitization of the Tu-160M aircraft design documentation and the restoration of vacuum welding techniques for titanium products, leading to the resumption of the production of fuselage units.

Rostec's main industrial companies in metallurgy, aircraft design, engineering and instrument manufacturing have played crucial roles in revitalizing their cooperation for the successful resumption of production.

The first Tu-160M strategic bomber built from scratch made its first 30-minute flight on January 12, 2022. It is equipped with modern weapons, electronic warfare system, as well as on-board electronic equipment.

According to reports, the Tu-160 entered Soviet service for the first time in the late 1980s, with production until 1995. In 2015, Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the resumption of production of the updated variant of the Tu-160M to strengthen the strategy of the Russian Air Force in the capabilities of the bombers at a time of increasing tension with the West, and to compensate for delays in the future PAK-DA bomber program.

Russia plans to eventually buy about 50 Tu-160M bombers and is upgrading 16 existing Tu-160s to the modernized standard. With the first Tu-160M scheduled to be delivered soon, series production is expected to begin in 2023, at a production rate of at least three aircraft per year. This would fit the order for 10 aircraft in the period 2023–27.

The update of the Tu-160M is being implemented in two phases, with the first phase of the Tu-160M1 comprising the new navigation system K-042K-1 and autopilot ABSU-200-1, as well as the removal of some previous systems, such as pump observation systems. This variant of the Tu-160M1 has been operational in the Russian Air Force since the end of 2014.

The second phase of the Tu-160M2 includes the new Novella NV1.70 radar, a digital glass booth, modern communications and anti-jamming equipment, updated NK-32 engines (designated NK-32-02) and modern conventional and nuclear weapons.

Tags: Military AviationROSTECRussiaTu-160 Blackjack

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Fernando Valduga

Fernando Valduga

Aviation photographer and pilot since 1992, he has participated in several events and air operations, such as Cruzex, AirVenture, Dayton Airshow and FIDAE. He has works published in specialized aviation magazines in Brazil and abroad. He uses Canon equipment during his photographic work in the world of aviation.

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[lonestarbattleship]

November 12, 2023 Update from the Battleship Texas Foundation

Good morning, Galveston! No, that’s not a shadow, that’s new paint!

"BATTLESHIP TEXAS UPDATE

DRY DOCK TOURS

Dry Dock Tours are scheduled until the end of January 2024. Discount available for those who return. See you all in December! For more information please visit: battleshiptexas.org/drydock

Dry Dock Tour hang tags are covering the accountability board!

Dry Dock Tour hang tags are covering the accountability board!

Bob L. talks to part of his Dry Dock Tour.

SHIP REPAIRS

TORPEDO BLISTERS (COMPLETE) - The new torpedo blisters are a slightly different design and square off at the bottom below the waterline. This design change will make the new blisters easier to maintain increasing their longevity.

SANDBLASTING - The ship’s hull is now being sandblasted at night and inspected for holes and damage during the day. The necessary repairs are made before the final coating is applied. The coating used is PPG SIGMA SHIELD 880 GF.

Repairs and sandblasting continues underneath battleship Texas.

Repairs and sandblasting continues underneath battleship Texas.

Newly discovered damage to the ship’s docking keels. This was blasted last night, and will be assessed this week.

Original teak used in the docking keels.

Repairs and sandblasting continues underneath battleship Texas.

HULL NUMBER - The new hull numbers have been extensively researched so each number is not only the correct font, but applied in the appropriate position it was in 1945. Welders have created an outline where that will be painted on in the near future.

SHIP’S NAME APPLIED - The lettering for the ship’s name has been cut from steel plate and has been attached to both sides of the stern. A ton of work and research went into getting the correct font and positioning. Welders have created an outline showing where it will go.

TEXAS now has her name back!

COATING - The inside of the blisters, and the ship’s hull will be coated to protect against possible corrosion.

The new and final coating has been applied to this section.

New and final coating has been applied to this section.

A hole found after blasting and primer application. It will be repaired.

New paint!

Come on Texas!

Gallons of paint being used to protect Battleship Texas. PPG SIGMA SHIELD 880 GF

TANK CLEANING - Tanks inside the ship are being inspected, cleaned, and repaired if need be. Some will be coated with a marine coating to help prevent future corrosion.

LEAK TESTING - All welds continue to be tested for leaks. They are done via vacuum box, dye penetrant, or magnaflux depending on the area.

Live, Laugh, And Flood your Torpedo Blisters.

Visit our website at: battleshiptexas.org"

Posted on the Battleship Texas Foundation Group Facebook page: link, link, link

[lauraallean]

Sea of Sands, Sea of Spores

Originally posted to my Wordpress journal on January 31, 2023

Spoiler warning: The following contains discussion about the world’s explored in Tress of the Emerald Sea and Brandon Sanderson’s Cosmere, Dune, Star Wars and Children of the Whales along with the themes of these stories. You have been warned.

Since the start of the new year, no book has perhaps caused quite as much of a stir online as the first of Brandon Sanderson’s Secret Project novels, Tress of the Emerald Sea. Announced last year, Tress is the first of four novels Sanderson fans have to look forward in the coming months.

The story itself pulls inspiration heavily both from classic fairytales and high seas adventures to regale audiences with the tale of a girl who lived upon a rock in the middle of the titular Emerald Sea. That is until she ventures away from home to rescue her prince (well, technically, he’s the son of a duke) who was kidnapped by an evil sorceress. Of course, this being a Sanderson novel, the story is filled with a litany of literary twists, subtle foreshadowing, and a smattering of Cosmere related Easter eggs thanks to the stories loquacious narrator. But perhaps one of the most unique aspects of the novel is its setting, a planet called Lumar, who’s 12 moons releases a deadly rain of aether’s onto the planets surface.

For a more in depth idea of what aether’s are, check out this entry from the Coppermind wikia. But to explain it simply, within Sanderson’s novels, an aether is an object containing investiture, the Cosmere equivalent of magic. Throughout Sanderson’s works, investiture comes in many varieties and usually requires some form of bond or trade for them to activate or manifest. In the case of Lumar, the aethers rains down on the planet in search of water, creating seas of dangerous spore-like dust upon which people have adapted to sailing on. Though each moon, it’s spores, and the colorful seas that they’ve formed aren’t fully explored during Tress’s adventures, she and her companions sail the Emerald, Crimson and Midnight Seas, and Sunlight, Zephyr and Roseite spores are utilized on board the ship. And while people have been able to find ways to make use of the spores, the story makes it clear that, no matter the variety, spores pose a grave threat to those who meddle with them. When exposed to water, each pose their own unique dangers. For instance, Emerald spores sprout into vines that grow with unnatural speed while Zephyr spores release gusts of air and Crimson spores explode into needle sharp barbs.

When discussing the worldbuilding of Tress of the Emerald Sea, Sanderson has said he’s been inspired for some time to create a world with, “a fantastical ocean, a different kind of place that you can go where people sail in something that isn’t water.” Of course, he had already done this before in creating the Cosmere’s spiritual realm where the ocean is made of glass beads. So what is it about these unnatural oceans, these alien seas, that make for such compelling story telling?

To understand this, it’s worth exploring some other examples of worlds similar to Lumar. In March of 2018, Netflix released season one of the series Children of the Whales, the first episode of which opens on a funeral, immediately painting the story in tones of gloom and mourning. As the deceased is sealed within their coffin, they’re carried off to the edge of their island home, called the Mud Whale, and cast into the seemingly endless sea of sand that surrounds them.

And while it visually resembles a traditional desert, it’s explained that the use of magic is needed in order to keep from being sucked beneath the sandy surface. Only strange fishlike creatures survive within it’s depths. And while life on the Mud Whale at first appears idyllic, if a bit uncivilized by modern comparison, it quickly becomes clear that life on the island isn’t as picturesque as it at first seems. While the inciting incident of the story is centered around them finally making contact with their first outsider in nearly a century, it is later revealed that there exists a whole world that the Mud Whale has not only been lost from but deliberately exiled out of as punishment. And while the majority of the island’s residents have access to a form of magic called thymia which is inextricably tied to the island, the price for this magic is an exceptionally shortened life span for it’s users that in return leaves most of the island’s children as orphans. Although the use of magic allows them to travel short distances from the island, the inhabitants of the Mud Whale have no control over where the currents carry them. In this instance, the unnatural ocean acts as less of a threat then it does in Tress but instead serves as a jailer.

When it comes to similar worlds that pose a more direct threat to their inhabitants, the two most well known examples are also quite similar to one another: the desert planets of Tatoine and Arrakis, of the Star Wars and Dune franchises respectively. Within both universes, finding yourself on either of these planets usually represents a downward turn of fortune. As C-3PO says of Tatooine in A New Hope, “What a desolate place this is,” and it would be hard to argue against the observation. Tatooine is made up almost entirely of an uninhabitable desert waste. And Arrakis’s reputation fairs no better. In the novel Dune, we’re first introduced the very idea of Arrakis as Paul lays in bed contemplating his families upcoming relocation to the planet. “Arrakis — Dune — Desert Planet” refrains ominously through his train of thought narrative like the beat of a distance war drum.

Of both Arrakis and Tatooine, the planets are described as nearly uninhabitable. Though neither ones sandy expanses are technically considered seas or oceans, the magnitude of their size serves to create the same sense of isolation that the vastness of an oceans casts on an island while simultaneously providing all new dangers for their residents. Brutal sand storms, predators evolved to thrive in the waste, “outsiders” who threaten the boundaries of their communities and the constant lack of life sustaining water. And yet on both these planets, humans do persevere and make lives for themselves on these plants. They do not thrive on either planet by any means, struggle and poverty seems to be the norm for inhabitants of both Tatooine and Arrakis, but humans have none the less found ways to survive on both, given enough reason. Tatooine is said to be located along important trading routes while Arrakis provides the invaluable substance called spice to the rest of the universe.

A common building on Tatooine

While the people of Lumar aren’t necessarily forced to confront their seas of spores as directly as the people living on Arrakis or Tatooine, for those who do chose to sail the spores, the danger they present is all the more real. Not only is life sustaining water a limited resource while at sea but as the story’s narrator reminds us, human beings produce plenty of water on their own, “considering the number of wet things that leak from human bodies even when they’re healthy.”

“Breathe in a burst of verdant spores, for example, and your saliva would send vines growing out of your mouth—or in more interesting cases, into your sinuses and out around your eyes.” Read the first 5 Chapters of Tress of the Emerald Sea here.

All of these stories rely heavily on the classic conflict of man versus nature and Tress of the Emerald Sea is no different.  With this story, Brandon Sanderson has created an ocean that defies our normal expectations of a maritime adventure. Sure the spore seas ripple like water and boats can sail upon them, but unlike a traditional ocean, the “water” is a substance far more volatile and each sea presents its own unique challenges to those who sail it. We see this over the course of the novel as Tress learns to face her fear of the spores and in doing so gains access to even greater power and abilities.

No matter the world, the fascination with these desert seas has been rising in popular culture (like with the recent film adaptations of Mad Max and Dune) and after seeing what Sanderson has done in subverting the normal expectations of the “unnatural ocean” trope, it’s easy to see why. On a world like Lumar, Arrakis or Tattoine, characters are forced to confront nature head on in order to survive and in doing so, often achieve far greater feats then they or their audience's ever imagined.

[coochiequeens]

Ladies please share this with any women you know starting their own business or non-profit

Business grants for women can help you grow your business for free, as opposed to small-business loans or other types of debt-based funding that you must pay back. But competition for small-business grants is fierce, and it takes considerable time and effort to win them. 

If you’re up for the challenge, though, grants can be a great way to fund your new or existing business. Here are 18 places women entrepreneurs can look for small-business grants and other free financial resources.

Private small-business grants for women

Some private corporations and organizations offer business grants for women. Here are six to consider:

1. Amber Grant

Every month, WomensNet awards a $10,000 Amber Grant to a woman-owned business in a specific, rotating category. The categories for 2023 are as follows:

January: Skilled trades

February: Health & fitness

March: Food & beverage

April: Sustainability

May: Mental & emotional support

June: Business support service

July: Animal services

August: Hair care & skincare

September: Education & child care

October: Creative arts

November: Technology

December: Fashion & interior designers

On top of that, the organization awards a second $10,000 monthly grant to a woman-owned business and a quarterly $10,000 grant to one startup and one nonprofit.

At the end of each year, two of the 12 general grant winners and one of the industry-specific grant winners are awarded an additional $25,000. 

The application is relatively simple: Explain your business, describe what you’d do with the grant money and pay a $15 application fee. The foundation’s advisory board chooses the winners, looking for women with passion and a good story. Businesses operating in the U.S. and Canada are eligible.

Because there’s no time in business requirement, companies seeking startup business grants for women may want to prioritize the Amber Grant.

2. IFundWomen Universal Grant Application Database

IFundWomen is a grant marketplace that specializes in funding and coaching for women-owned businesses. You can submit one application and when IFundWomen adds a grant from an enterprise partner, it will match the partner’s grant criteria to applications within the database.

If your business is a match, you’ll receive a notification and invitation to apply. Previous grant partners have included companies like Visa, Neutrogena and American Express.

3. SoGal Black Founder Startup Grant

The SoGal Foundation — along with company sponsors like Bluemercury, Twilio and others — offer startup grants to businesses owned by Black women or Black nonbinary entrepreneurs. Grants are available in amounts of either $5,000 or $10,000.

Awardees also receive fundraising advice, with a focus on investor financing, and lifetime access to the SoGal Foundation team. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so you can apply on the SoGal website at any time.

4. Fearless Strivers Grant Contest

The Fearless Fund, in collaboration with Mastercard, offers $20,000 grants to businesses owned by Black women through the Fearless Strivers Grant Contest. The winners also receive digital tools to help them get and sustain their businesses online and one-on-one mentorship with a Mastercard small-business mentor.

The Fearless Fund runs a national grant program, as well as city-specific grant contests in Atlanta; Birmingham, Alabama; Dayton, Ohio; Los Angeles; New Orleans; New York City; and St. Louis. To qualify for this small-business grant, you must have a U.S.-based business, 50 or fewer employees and have made $3 million or less in annual revenue in the past year.

» MORE: Best business grants for Black women entrepreneurs

5. Cartier Women's Initiative Awards

Every year, Cartier awards three grants to women-owned businesses in nine different regions around the world. The Cartier Women’s Initiative Awards program is designed to support early-stage businesses that are focused on a range of social, economic and environmental development issues.

The first-place business is awarded a $100,000 grant, second place receives $60,000 and third place gets $30,000. Winners also receive executive coaching and the opportunity to participate in a variety of training workshops.

6. Comcast RISE

Comcast awards $10,000 grants to businesses owned by women and people of color several times per year. Each Comcast RISE Investment Fund application cycle is open to entrepreneurs in specific target cities. You can also apply for “marketing services and tech makeovers,” which don’t include cash prizes but can still help your business grow.

7. High Five Grant for Moms

The Mama Ladder organization — along with co-hosts Proof, Belly Bandit and Caden Concepts — offer an annual small-business grant specifically for moms. This grant, called the High Five Grant, is designed to support women caregivers with child(ren) of all ages, including first-time expecting moms, stepmoms and foster moms.

Entrepreneurs can submit an application online and share the story behind their business on social media. Finalists will be chosen by a panel of judges and then a public vote will determine the top three winners. The top business will receive a $25,000 grant, the runner up will receive a $10,000 grant and the third place finalist will receive $5,000.

Additional private business grant options

Although these options aren’t specifically for women, they’re good small-business grants to consider for any entrepreneur.

8. FedEx Small Business Grant

FedEx awards up to $30,000 apiece to 10 small businesses annually. One veteran-owned business from among those 10 winners can receive an additional $20,000 from USAA Small Business Insurance. Winners also receive money to use toward FedEx Office print and business services.

The application requires an explanation of your business, how you’d use the money, photos of your business and — this part is optional — a short video explaining your business. To be eligible, you must operate a for-profit business with fewer than 99 employees and at least six months of operating history.

9. National Association for the Self-Employed Growth Grant

Every quarter, the NASE awards up to $4,000 to up to four small businesses via its growth grants. These funds can be used for a variety of business needs, including marketing, advertising and hiring employees.

To apply for this grant, you must be a NASE member in good standing for at least three months. Annual members can apply at any time.

10. Halstead Grant

The Halstead Grant is an annual award for entrepreneurs looking to break into the silver jewelry industry. The winner receives a $7,500 startup grant, as well as $1,000 in jewelry merchandise. Five finalists and semi-finalists also receive $250 or $500 and help with promoting their businesses.

Both men and women-owned businesses are eligible for this small-business grant. To apply, you must answer 15 business-related questions and submit a design portfolio. Applications are due August 1 each year.

11. Fast Break for Small Businesses

These $10,000 grants — funded by LegalZoom, the NBA, WNBA and NBA G League and managed by the Accion Opportunity Fund — are available twice a year. Winners also receive LegalZoom services worth up to $500. You can sign up on LegalZoom’s website to be notified when applications open.

Federal small-business grants for women

Some federal government grants for small-business owners are designated for specific purposes, such as research and development projects, or for businesses in rural areas. Government grants typically can’t be used for startup costs or day-to-day expenses.

12. Grants.gov

Grants.gov is a database of federally sponsored grants, including grants for small businesses. Although these grants are not exclusive to women-owned businesses, this database is a great place to start if you’re looking for free financing.

To apply, you must obtain a Unique Entity ID for your business (a 12-character alphanumeric identification number), register to do business with the U.S. government through its System for Award Management website and create an account at Grants.gov.

To view grants specifically for small businesses, filter the results on the left side of the page under “eligibility.”

13. Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer programs

The SBA facilitates these two competitive programs, which provide grants to small businesses that contribute to federal research and development. Eleven federal agencies — including the departments of Agriculture, Defense, and Health and Human Services — post business grant opportunities on their websites. You can search current grant opportunities on the SBIR website.

To qualify, you must operate a for-profit business with no more than 500 employees and meet other eligibility requirements.

14. Program for Investors in Microentrepreneurs (PRIME)

Although the SBA coordinates some grant programs, the agency doesn’t typically offer grant funding directly to small businesses. With the PRIME program, however, the SBA provides federal grants to microenterprise development organizations so that they can offer training, technical assistance and coaching to disadvantaged small-business owners.

These grants are available to nonprofit, private, state, local or tribal-run organizations, including those that focus on working with women-owned small businesses. The Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation, for example, was awarded a $200,000 grant in 2022.

» MORE: Business grants are ‘just not that easy.’ Here are some tips to help

State and local small-business grants for women

Because federal small-business grants are limited in number and often very competitive, you may have better luck seeking out grants for women at the state and municipal levels. You’ll have to do your own research to pinpoint specific grant programs in your area, but here are some places to help you get started:

15. Women’s Business Centers

The SBA sponsors more than 100 Women’s Business Centers nationwide, designed to help women entrepreneurs with business development and access to capital. Some, such as the California Capital Financial Development Corp., lend money directly while others help you find small-business grants and loans that you may qualify for.

16. Economic Development Administration

Every state and many cities have economic development resources focused on promoting strong local economies. For example, New York has several economic development districts, such as the Lake Champlain - Lake George Regional Planning Board, which helps local businesses access state and federal funding.

17. Small Business Development Centers

There are hundreds of SBA-sponsored Small Business Development Centers around the country, typically housed at colleges and universities. SBDCs offer free, one-on-one business consulting, such as help with developing a business plan, researching markets and finding financing — including grants, business loans and crowdfunding.

Some SBDCs offer training on certification programs like the SBA 8(a) Business Development Program and Minority and Women Business Enterprise Certifications. These programs can help businesses level the playing field when competing in the public and private sector.

18. Minority Business Development Agency Centers

The MBDA operates a network of business centers across the country that are designed to help minority business owners access capital, secure contracts and develop financial strategies. Your local MBDA business center can work with you to identify the right financing options for your business, including federal, state and private small-business grants.

The MBDA also runs the Enterprising Women of Color Initiative, or EWOC, to support minority women in their business endeavors. The EWOC provides access to resources, events and other opportunities for women minority-owned businesses.

» MORE: Find small-business grants for minorities

Alternatives to small-business grants

Finding and applying for business grants can be difficult, as well as time-consuming. If you don’t qualify for certain grants — or simply want to explore other ways to fund your women-owned business — here are some avenues to explore:

Best small-business loans for women: Compare SBA loans, online term loans, lines of credit, microloans and learn about other available resources for your business.

Crowdfunding for business: Tap into the power of the internet to raise money for your business and promote your company’s product or service.

Small-business credit cards: Compare dozens of cards and find the best choice for financing your everyday business purchases — and earn rewards in the process.

SBA microloans: Work with a nonprofit financial institution to apply for these government-backed loans, which can be a good choice for new or very small businesses.

[dreaminginthedeepsouth]

House Republicans launch multiple investigations into college protests

Four GOP committee chairs are probing pro-Palestinian campus activism.

+

New GOP move: discredit and defund the nation's major research universities and move funds to private, religious schools like Liberty University and Hillsdale, the new GOP models for higher education.

* * * *

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

May 2, 2024

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

MAY 03, 2024

More than 2,000 people have been arrested at protests on college and university campuses around the country opposing Israel’s military strikes on Gaza since the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel by Hamas, and the subsequent humanitarian crisis there. It is unclear how many of the protesters are students, as many of those arrested have not been affiliated with the universities, or how many of the arrests will result in charges—sometimes arrests at protests are designed simply to clear an area.

The roots of today’s protests lie in an investigation by the Republican-dominated House Committee on Education and the Workforce, chaired by Virginia Foxx (R-NC). The committee announced the investigation on December 7, two days after its members spent more than five hours grilling then-president of Harvard University Claudine Gay, then-president of University of Pennsylvania Liz Magill, and president of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology Sally Kornbluth on how their universities were handling student protests against Israel over its military response to Hamas’s attack of October 7.

Led by Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Republicans on the committee insisted that the universities were not protecting Jewish students. The university presidents responded that they deplored antisemitism, that students had the right to free speech, and that they took action against those who violated policies against bullying, harassment, or intimidation. But in their defense of free speech, they admitted both that hate speech against Jews and others is sometimes protected and that they had sometimes made bad calls.  

The Republicans’ interest in protecting Jewish students on campus overlapped with their opposition to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives that they associate with Democrats. Burgess Owens (R-UT) said DEI initiatives protect Black students at the expense of others. “I just remember a couple of years ago when we were dealing with Black Lives Matter,” he said. “Try to talk about Blue Lives Matter, Jew Lives Matter, Arab Lives Matter—they call it racist. It’s time for us to focus on what’s happening on your campuses.”

Stefanik called the testimony “pathetic” and, along with 74 other members of Congress, demanded that Gay, Harvard’s first Black president, resign. On January 2, following accusations she had plagiarized scholarly work, she did. Her resignation followed that of Liz Magill. “TWO DOWN,” Stefanik wrote on social media. 

Two days after the university presidents’ testimony, Stefanik announced that the House Education and Workforce Committee would be investigating universities. “We will use our full Congressional authority to hold these schools accountable for their failure on the global stage,” she said.

On February 12 the committee informed Columbia it was next up. Columbia University president Nemat "Minouche" Shafik had been unable to testify with the other presidents in December and gave her testimony to the committee on April 17, along with co-chairs of the Board of Trustees Claire Shipman and David Greenwald and former dean David Schizer over the university's response to antisemitism. 

In an April 16 essay in the Wall Street Journal, Shafik wrote that “antisemitism and calls for genocide have no place at a university…but that leaves plenty of room for robust disagreement and debate.” She said she prioritizes “the safety and security of our community” and that while the attack of October 7 had a "deep personal impact" on the Jewish and Israeli communities, there was also a "humanitarian catastrophe" in Gaza, and the war was "part of a larger story of Palestinian displacement." She explained that Columbia had defined a space for protests to enable those they upset to avoid them. 

Opening the hearing, committee chair Foxx said: “Since October 7, this Committee and the nation have watched in horror as so many of our college campuses, particularly the most expensive, so-called elite schools, have erupted into hotbeds of antisemitism and hate.” Stefanik called out tenured professor Joseph Massad of the Middle Eastern, South Asian, and African Studies department, who called the October 7 attack a “stunning victory.” 

Shafik responded by condemning the professor’s statements. “Trying to reconcile the free speech rights of those who want to protest and the rights of Jewish students to be in an environment free of harassment or discrimination has been the central challenge on our campus, and many others, in recent months…. We do not, and will not, tolerate antisemitic threats, images, and other violations…. We have enforced, and we will continue to enforce, our policies against such actions,” she said. 

Ilhan Omar (D-MN) questioned Shafik about discrimination against pro-Palestinian protesters. She noted that Israel-born assistant professor Shai Davidai was accused of harassing pro-Palestinian students; Shafik said they have had more than 50 complaints about him and he is under investigation. 

On April 17, the same day the Columbia officials testified, pro-Palestinian protesters organized by Columbia University Apartheid Divest (a self-described “coalition of student organizations that see Palestine as the vanguard for our collective liberation”), Students for Justice in Palestine, and Jewish Voice for Peace set up a camp at the university. It garnered little attention; the April 18 New York Times did not mention it. According to Sharif, the school warned protesters they would be suspended if the encampment was not removed. They stayed. On April 18, according to New York mayor Eric Adams, Columbia officials called in New York City police to disband the protest. They arrested more than 100 people, including Representative Omar’s daughter, a Columbia student. The arrests were peaceful.  

University faculty and community members were shocked by the resort to law enforcement at a place known both for learning and debate and for its history. In April 1968, in the midst of the Vietnam War and the Civil Rights Movement, a week of protests after students learned of Columbia’s support for weapons research and its plan to construct a seemingly segregated gym in a nearby community had led New York City police to crush the demonstrations with violence.  

In the days after the current arrests, nearly a dozen student and faculty groups released statements or open letters objecting to the police presence on campus and supporting students’ rights to free speech and peaceful protest. The protest encampment sprang back up. 

At the same time, Jewish leaders warned that antisemitism was increasing. Rabbi Elie Buechler, of the Columbia/Barnard Hillel and Kraft Center for Jewish Student Life, urged Jewish students to return home for Passover, which began April 22, and to stay there for their own safety.

In the next weeks, protests sprang up around the country, with protesters generally demanding that university administrators divest from investments in Israel or in companies that sell weapons, technology, or construction equipment to Israel, and cut ties to Israeli universities. They have tended to turn their anger against President Joe Biden and his administration, whom they blame for what they call a genocide in Gaza. Universities have responded in a variety of ways, from discussion to armed law enforcement officers.

Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have insisted that Israel has a right to defend itself from Hamas and have continued to provide Israel with military defenses, whose importance in stopping the war from spreading showed on April 14, when those defenses shot down virtually all of the weapons Iran launched at Israel. They are working hard for a ceasefire, with Blinken currently in the Middle East and a proposal on the table that Israel has accepted but Hamas has not. 

The administration has also stood against the initial policy of Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s administration to cordon off Gaza without food, water, or electricity, and has pressured Israel into permitting humanitarian aid into Gaza. It has also firmly opposed Israeli plans to attack Rafah, where more than a million Palestinians have taken shelter, and has stood firmly in favor of a Palestinian state, which the protesters have not indicated they endorse.

On April 24, House speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) visited Columbia, where he called for Shafik  to resign. On Monday, April 29, he and Republican leadership met to discuss how they might reenergize the party and gain traction now that their impeachment effort against Biden and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas has flopped, the conference is bitterly split, their control of the House of Representatives has resulted in one of the least productive congresses in American history, and their presumptive presidential nominee is being tried for election interference that involved paying off women with whom he had extramarital sex. They settled on campus antisemitism—although Trump’s open embrace of white nationalists makes this problematic—and the campus protests as a sign that Democrats are the party of disorder.

On that same day, 21 House Democrats wrote a letter to Columbia’s trustees demanding they “act decisively, disband the encampment, and ensure the safety and security of all of its students.” That night, protesters took control of Columbia’s Hamilton Hall, where they broke windows and vandalized furniture. About twenty hours later, police in riot gear arrested them. Arrests across the country climbed.

Yesterday, Representative Foxx announced that her committee’s antisemitism investigation will expand into a Congress-wide crackdown on colleges. In a press conference, she said she had a clear message for “mealy-mouthed, spineless college leaders. Congress will not tolerate your dereliction of duty to your Jewish students. American universities are officially put on notice that we have come to take our universities back.” 

Will Bunch of the Philadelphia Inquirer noted that right-wing politicians jumped on the Kent State shootings of May 1970 to defund colleges and universities, while a “law and order” backlash helped to give Republican president Richard M. Nixon a landslide reelection in 1972. 

Today, President Biden addressed the protests, saying they “test two fundamental American principles. The first is the right to free speech and for people to peacefully assemble and make their voices heard. The second is the rule of law. Both must be upheld.” 

Biden called for lawful, peaceful protests and warned: “Vandalism, trespassing, breaking windows, shutting down campuses, forcing the cancellation of classes and graduations—none of this is a peaceful protest…. Dissent is essential to democracy,” he said, “But dissent must never lead to disorder or to denying the rights of others so students can finish the semester and their college education…. People have the right to get an education, the right to get a degree, the right to walk across the campus safely without fear of being attacked.”

When asked, he told reporters he did not think the National Guard should be involved in suppressing the protests. 

Steven Lee Myers and Tiffany Hsu of the New York Times reported today that Russia, China, and Iran are amplifying the protests “to score geopolitical points abroad and stoke tensions within the United States,” as well as to “undermine President Biden’s reelection prospects.” 

It is unclear if the protests will continue during the summer, when fewer students will be on campus.

LETTERS FROM AN AMERICAN

HEATHER COX RICHARDSON

[manasastuff-blog]

UPSC National Defence Academy NDA and Naval Academy NA Examination 2024 Apply Online for 400 Post

 Union Public Service Commission UPSC has released the National Defence Academy NDA (Male / Female), Naval Academy NA Only for Male, NDA & NA First Examination 2024. Those Candidate Are Interested to UPSC NDA & NA 2024 Exam Can Apply Online from 20/12/2023 to 09/01/2024. Read the notification for recruitment eligibility, post information, selection procedure, age limit, pay scale and all other information.

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

UPSC National Defence Academy NDA & NA First Examination 2024

UPSC NDA Exam Notice No. 03/2022-NDA-I :  Short Details of Notification

WWW.SARKARIRESULT.COM

Important Dates

Application Begin : 20/12/2023

Last Date for Apply Online : 09/01/2024 Upto 06:00 PM Only

Pay Exam Fee Last Date : 09/01/2024

Modify / Edit Form : 10-16 January 2024

NDA I Exam Date : 21/04/2024

Admit Card Released : Before Exam

Application Fee

General / OBC : 100/-

SC / ST : 0/- (Nil)

All Category Female : 0/-

Pay the Examination Fee Through Net Banking, Debit Card, Credit Card or Pay the Exam Fee Through Cash E Challan Fee Mode Submit the Exam Fee at State Bank of India SBI Any Branches in India.

UPSC NDA I Notification 2024: Age Limit as on Details

Age Between: 02/07/2005 to 01/07/2008

Age Relaxation Extra as per NDA I Exam 2024 Rules.

UPSC NDA & NDA I Recruitment 2024 : Vacancy Details Total : 400 Post

Post Name

Wing Name

Total Post

UPSC NDA & NDA Eligibility 2024

National Defence Academy NDA (Male / Female)

Army

208

10+2 Intermediate Exam in Any Recognized Board

Navy

42

10+2 Intermediate Class 12 Exam Passed / Appearing in Any Recognized Board with Physics & Mathematics as a Subject.

Airforce

120

Naval Academy NA Only for Male

10+2 Cadet Entry

30

How to Fill UPSC NDA I Exam 2024 Online Form

UPSC has made One Time Registration OTR mandatory for all its recruitments, thus OTR is necessary in this recruitment National Defense Academy 2024 also, those who have not done OTR yet should do their OTR, without it the application will not be accepted.

Union Public Service Commission UPSC Are Released the Notification for NDA I Exam 2024 for the 400+ Approx Vacancies in Army, Navy, Airforce Recruitment 2024 Candidate Can Apply Between 20/12/2023 to 09/01/2024

Candidate Read the Notification Before Apply the Recruitment Application Form in UPSC NDA Online Form 2024.

Kindly Check and Collect the All Document - Eligibility, ID Proof, Address Details, Basic Details.

Kindly Ready Scan Document Related to Recruitment Form - Photo, Sign, ID Proof, Etc.

Before Submit the Application Form Must Check the Preview and All Column Carefully.

If Candidate Required to Paying the Application Fee Must Submit. If You have Not the Required Application Fees Your Form is Not Completed.

Take A Print Out of Final Submitted Form.

NDA CRASH COURSE ( 6 MONTHS ) NDA ADVANCE COURSE (1 YEAR)

At Manasa Defence Academy, we take pride in providing the best training in India for those who are interested in pursuing a career in defense. Whether you aspire to join the prestigious National Defense Academy (NDA) or wish to advance your skills through our NDA Crash Course or NDA Advance Course, we have got you covered. In this article, we will delve into the details of these courses, highlighting their duration, curriculum, and the invaluable training you can expect to receive.

NDA Crash Course (6 months)

 Academy is designed to prepare candidates for the rigorous selection process of the National Defense Academy within a span of six months. During this short but intensive period, we ensure that you receive comprehensive training to enhance your chances of clearing the NDA entrance examination.

Duration and Curriculum

The NDA Crash Course is carefully crafted to cover all the important subjects and topics required for the NDA entrance examination. Over the course of six months, you will undergo an extensive curriculum that includes:

Mathematics: We provide in-depth coaching in mathematics, covering topics such as algebra, geometry, trigonometry, calculus, and statistics. Our experienced faculty will guide you through complex problem-solving techniques and ensure you have a strong foundation in this subject.

General Ability: This section tests your English language proficiency, general knowledge, and logical reasoning. We offer comprehensive study materials and conduct regular mock tests to help you improve your command over vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking.

Physical Training: Physical fitness is a crucial aspect of defense training. Our NDA Crash Course includes regular physical training sessions to improve your stamina, strength, and overall fitness levels. You will partake in activities such as running, obstacle courses, and team sports to develop the necessary physical endurance required for a career in the defense forces.

Intensive Coaching and Guidance

At Manasa Defence Academy, we believe in offering personalized attention to each candidate. Our experienced faculty members are dedicated and passionate about helping you achieve your goals. Through small batch sizes, we ensure that every student receives individualized coaching, allowing for better interaction and focused learning.

Our faculty members have prior experience in defense services and possess comprehensive knowledge of the NDA examination pattern. They provide valuable insights, tips, and tricks to tackle the examination effectively. Additionally, weekly doubt-clearing sessions and regular progress evaluations are conducted to track your performance and address any areas that require improvement.

NDA Advance Course (1 year)

For those seeking a more thorough and comprehensive preparation for the NDA entrance examination, Manasa Defence Academy offers the NDA Advance Course spanning one year. This course provides an in-depth understanding of the subjects and ample time for practice to ensure a higher success rate.

Duration and Curriculum

The NDA Advance Course is designed to cover the entire NDA syllabus in great detail. The duration of one year allows for an extensive focus on each subject, ensuring a comprehensive understanding. The curriculum includes:

Mathematics: Similar to the NDA Crash Course, mathematics is a vital component of the NDA Advance Course. Our expert faculty members provide extensive coaching in mathematics, enabling you to solve complex problems with ease and accuracy.

General Ability: The general ability section in the NDA entrance examination requires a broad understanding of English, general knowledge, and logical reasoning. Our Advance Course offers an intensive study of these subjects, along with regular practice sessions and mock tests to enhance your performance.

SSB Interview Preparation: Clearing the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview is an essential step towards joining the defense forces. Our NDA Advance Course includes personalized guidance and intensive training to help you excel in the SSB interview. Mock interviews, group discussions, and personality development sessions are conducted to enhance your overall performance and confidence.

Exclusive Study Material and Resources

As part of the NDA Advance Course, you will receive exclusive study materials, including comprehensive notes, practice papers, and reference books. These resources are carefully curated to cover the entire NDA syllabus and are regularly updated to align with the latest examination pattern and trends.

Our library facilities also provide access to a wide range of books, magazines, and journals related to defense studies. This allows you to broaden your knowledge base and stay updated with current affairs, military history, and global security issues.

Conclusion

If you have a burning desire to serve your country and embark on a fulfilling career in defense, the NDA Crash Course (6 months) and NDA Advance Course (1 year) at Manasa Defence Academy are perfect choices for you. With our dedicated faculty, comprehensive curriculum, and personalized attention, we strive to equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to succeed in the NDA entrance examination. Don’t miss the chance to turn your aspirations into reality – join Manasa Defence Academy and kickstart your journey towards a rewarding career in defense.

[stimboardboy]

(almost) looping anime gifs

x - x - x | x - x - x | x - x - x

[redwineconversation]

Sara Bjork Gunnarsdottir vs. Olympique Lyonnais Legal Case Analysis

I'd ask certain blogs to stay in their lane next time but why do that when they can just trash a team they know nothing about for a case they don't understand?

So let's do a recap of the case: Olympique Lyonnais ("Lyon") signs Sara Bjork Gunnarsdottir ("SBG") in August 2020. This is in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, which is a factor later on. SBG learns she is pregnant early March 2021, tells the team in April 2021, goes back to Iceland, gives birth there, and returns to Lyon January 2022, plays her first game back with Lyon in March 2022. Upon her return she is faced with significantly reduced playing time. She leaves at the end of her contract (June 2022) for Juventus.

In the meantime, we have the following timeline: after her return to Iceland, Lyon starts withholding her paychecks before eventually paying her a decreased salary. In the interim, head coach Jean-Luc Vasseur is replaced by Sonia Bompastor in April 2021. Lyon signed midfielders Catarina Macario and Damaris in January 2021, Danielle van de Donk in June 2021, and Lindsey Horan in January 2022. This is also relevant later on.

SBG goes to FIFA/FIFPRO and argues that Lyon deliberately withheld her wages allegedly out of spite for becoming pregnant. There were also allegations of being mistreated by the staff. She argues that Lyon failed to abide by FIFA regulations. Lyon argues that they are bound by French law, not FIFA, since Lyon is a French business entity based in France.

SBG wins her case, Lyon pays her the remaining amount of her salary, and this is settled in May 2022. The ruling however becomes public in January 2023 and SBG writes a scathing article laying out Lyon's shortcomings in full.

Now it's easy to look at SBG's essay and be appalled. Lyon did withhold wages! From a pregnant woman at that! She returned and was faced with reduced playing time! The board was hostile! Really, Lyon comes across as monsters in that essay. I'm not going to sit here and pretend I wasn't appalled.

But I was also surprised, because her accusations didn't sound like Lyon at all. This is the most successful women's club in the world. Aulas is very explicit in his support for women's football. And yet Lyon did all that? Just seemed really odd, and concerning.

So I dug a little deeper and it turns out that Lyon basically lost on a technicality. Even the ruling noted that Lyon wasn't actually wrong, and if it wasn't for the FIFA mandate which came into affect January 2021, Lyon would have won their case instead.

Now keep in mind what I said earlier: Lyon's argument was that they were a French entity whose business operations were based in France and therefore were bound by French law. That meant that SBG's paycheck was determined, in their eyes, by French employment laws.

And let's go back over the timeline: SBG learns she is pregnant in March 2021 but only tells the board and the team in April 2021 (the medical staff were made aware in March 2021 but kept it confidential). Claiming legitimate fears of COVID, SBG returns to Iceland in April 2021 but doesn't give birth until November 2021.

Lyon argued that the period of April 2021 to November 2021 was not maternity leave but simply leave, which, under French law, meant that they did not have to pay. It was only her actual maternity leave that they would have to cover in full (November 2021 - January 2022). Lyon also argued that she hadn't been at the club for 12 months, meaning that she wasn't protected by "statute" protecting longterm players.

Where Lyon lost the case was on the technicality of employment. Lyon argued that SBG since (1) never asked for a form of alternative employment (eg communications) immediately after the pregnancy was confirmed [she only did so in August 2021, 4 months after the pregnancy was confirmed] and (2) went to Iceland, the FIFA regulation which came into effect January 2021 could not be applied, and therefore French law would dominate.

FIFA ruled in SBG's favor because they determined it was Lyon's "duty" to have informed SBG of the financial repercussions, which they failed to do. FIFA argued that the club's duty to inform the player is predominant over the player's duty to inform themselves. FIFA also argued that SBG was negligent in her own duty to inform herself of the statutes in question. The FIFA regulations set forth in January 2021 stated the protection for pregnant players kicked in once the pregnancy was officially confirmed to the club.

Lyon also contested further allegations in the dispute. SBG argues that there was radio silence from the club; Bompastor said in an interview that was inaccurate, that both Abily and Segui had followed up with SBG during her time in Iceland.

Bompastor also argued that the reduced playing time was a coaching decision and reflective of Lyon's roster rather than retribution towards SBG. She points out that Lyon's midfield was significantly more stacked than when SBG had left on (maternity) leave and there would be increased competition for playing time. Bompastor also confirmed that she was the one who decided not to extend SBG's contract and remained firm it was for sporting reasons, not a personal vendetta.

Lyon also put out a statement: their support structure remained the same for both SBG and Amel Majri ("Majri"). Lyon argued they did offer to pay the full costs of a nanny and would allow the infant to travel with SBG during away games. But they wanted to do a test first to see how it would work and what adjustments would need to be made. SBG objected on the grounds that she didn't want to be an experiment; Lyon argued that same structure remained in place for Majri, and it was a question of logistics, not discriminatory. There is nothing to suggest that Majri's away trip with her daughter was anything other than Lyon trying to sort out the same logistical issues they had anticipated with SBG's case.

So it comes down to this: Lyon lost the case on a technicality. FIFA regulations, put in place in January 2021 (3 months before SBG knew of her pregnancy and 4 months before SBG alerted the club), said that it was the club's obligation to notify the player of any economic ramifications of going on maternity leave and the club's obligation to offer "alternative employment". Because they didn't, SBG was therefore entitled to her normal salary.

Had that ruling not been in effect in January 2021, Lyon would have won their case.

So I think this is important: Lyon wasn't being the vindictive sociopaths so many WSL blogs are suddenly claiming. It came down to a case of jurisdiction which ended up being won on a technicality.

EDIT - added the important part of the ruling for all the Tumblr JDs out there.

[ani-soup]

The New Velma Series Has Me Going Jinkies!

When the new animated series Velma launched a few weeks ago, it did something that no other show in the history of entertainment has done: unite everyone on the internet in hatred of it. For the first time, people on both sides of the political aisle expressed their disappointment of the new Scooby-Doo spin-off, which premiered on HBO Max on January 12 in the year of Our Lord 2023. But why is it so?

Well, for starters, it could have something to do with the fact that the teaser trailer, which outright mocked fans for wanting the show to stay true to the source material. Because attacking the people who consume your product always ends well (am I right, G4TV?).

It could also have to do with the fact that for this “incarnation” of Scooby Doo, the gang’s characters  have all been skewered and butchered and tossed to the wayside. For example,  Daphne Blake, who was the team mom in previous incarnations, is now a vapid high school bully not unlike the type you would see in Mean Girls. This mishandling of such a popular character was such that her OG voice actress, Grey DeLisle, actually made fun of the show using her character’s catchphrase.

Grey DeLisle on Twitter: "JEEPERS!!! #velmadinkley https://t.co/SaPva18G2u" / Twitter

The butchering doesn’t stop there. Fred, who was commonly depicted as the smart, charismatic leader who was obsessed with traps, is now a rude, spoiled, privileged manchild who is commonly the butt of other people’s jokes. At one point, Velma remarks that Fred is unable to feed himself during a court hearing, and cue a scene where Fred is trying (and failing miserably) to do so, much to the amusement of everyone in the court. He is also something of a misogynist, at point claiming that he can't remember Velma's name because he blatantly thinks that she's unattractive.  This version of Shaggy, now named Norville, meanwhile, is now a beta male who is trying (and failing) to win Velma’s affection and has none of the original counterpart’s charm or cowardice (though his love of snacks remains). I’m fully willing to bet that Norville is not gonna last a minute against Ultra Instinct Shaggy. One common criticism of the new series is that there is virtually no Scooby Doo in this show, despite being a spin-off of the Scooby Doo property.  Well, considering how his human companions have been dragged through the mud, this is probably the best thing to our beloved Great Dane.

Speaking of Velma, I’ve saved the worst for last. From the minute it was announced that she would be brownwashed and voiced by Mindy Kaling, I instantly knew not to expect the best from the franchise. Mindy Kaling is one of those unfunny comedians who relies too much on shock humor, not to mention she’s a raging liberal SJW. The last bit is important because she’s what is commonly referred to as an NPC. Her response to the news that people were not on board with the new South Asian Velma was that “tHeY’rE jUsT rAcIsT!” (Ms. Kaling, I feel the need to inform you that as a fellow South Asian, I also do not like your bastardization of one of my favorite childhood franchises.) Not to mention a clip has recently surfaced of her unashamedly admitting of her giving an improvised kiss to a fellow actor and threatening to have him fired if he told anyone about this. What’s even more disturbing is that the audience was laughing the entire time, as if sexual assault to a man is hilarious. (Imagine if the genders were reversed, would it still be funny then?) As for Velma herself, I can’t say that I really like her, considering how she treats everyone in her vicinity. While her previous incarnations were snarky as well, they were a lot less mean-spirited compared to this version, who is clearly unhinged and more judgmental and bitter towards just about anyone. Who wants to be about such a bundle of positivity and joy all the time?

It's no surprise that so many people have come to despise both the show and the creator. It currently sits at a record 1.3/10 on IMDB, and has been dubbed the worst animated show in modern history. (No, seriously!) There are plenty of ways to make an adult reboot of a children’s franchise. This is not one of them. Whether you’re familiar with Scooby or not, this show isn’t for you. You’re better off watching either Scoobynatural or Mystery Incorporated if you want to see a darker, edgier Scooby Doo done properly.

Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ll be watching some What’s New Scooby Doo? as a palate cleanser for whatever the hell this mess is.

[kozyndan]

"Strength In Numbers (Bunny Avalanche)"  12 x 12 inches  acrylic gouache on  2023 

 Kozy - We just sent this painting off to be in an exhibition at corey helford gallery in Los Angeles. Bunnies have been a recurring character in our artwork since the very first year of our career working together.  Dan sketched up this illustration in December as the year of the Tiger (2022) was drawing to a close, and the year of the Rabbit (2023) was about to begin so as to commemorate this new lunar year, as well as “celebrate the power of cooperation to overcome daunting odds!” (Those are his words, I think he just wanted to draw more rabbits for all you @kozyndan rabbit fans out there!). 

 This work was made using the same process as the “California Bunnywave” - Dan drew the lines colored it just how he imagined the final art to look in @procreateapp and then printed that illustration for me to trace the basic lines onto a 12 x 12 inch cradled board and then paint with acrylic gouache. I got use my new toy, a little USB chargeable airbrush, again for this painting. This is now my second time using an airbrush and its been fun to explore the new tool as I used it to make the snow in this painting. I tried to stick close to what Dan imagined and just got lost in the process - figuring our how to make the snow, and then all the brush painted lifework afterwards. Its actually a quite meditative process for me - and I find myself listening to a lot of meditative sort of podcasts and music while I do this kind of painting process. It was a lovely way to finish out the year! If you are interested in buying this original painting, please contact the gallery! 

If you are interested in buying this original painting, please contact sherri @ coreyhelfordgallery dot com !

“Art Collector Starter Kit” exhibition opened January 28th, 2023! Happy new Year to Everyone!!! We are so grateful for your support!  🎉🐇🐇🐇🐇🐇🐇🐅🐇🐇🐇🐇🐇🎉 (at Hokuto-shi) 

[wutbju]

Uh oh.

Class of 1957 Stuart Epperson died in July 2023.

And now Salem Media Group is delisting and divesting.

This is a big deal.

First:

Salem Announces Voluntary Delisting from NASDAQ Salem Media Group gives formal notice to the Nasdaq Stock Market of its intention to voluntarily delist its Class A Common Stock from the Nasdaq Global Market and to deregister its Class A Common Stock under Section 12(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. As a result, the company expects that theim last trading day of its common stock on the Nasdaq Global Market will be on or about January 18, 2024. Further, prior to March 29, 2024, the company intends to file a Form 15 with the SEC to suspend its reporting obligations under Sections 12(g) and 15(d) of the Exchange Act. In June of 2023, Salem lost compliance with NASDAQ as its stock price slipped below the minimum bid price and never regained compliance and consequently Salem’s board of directors determined that the voluntary delisting is in the best interests of the company and its stockholders. Salem says it anticipates significant financial savings because of this decision. Salem expects that its Class A Common Stock will be quoted on the OTCQX or other market operated by OTC Markets Group Inc.

And then when it comes to the Greenville market:

Salem Media Group Announces Plan to Sell Its Greenville Radio Stations

IRVING, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Salem Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: SALM) announced today that it entered into an agreement to transfer the ownership of its Greenville-Spartanburg stations, WGTK-FM, WRTH-FM, and WLTE-FM to Educational Media Foundation (EMF). Salem Media CEO David Santrella stated, “We have enjoyed our years in the Greenville-Spartanburg market but have made the strategic decision to divest our interests there. As we do, we are grateful to be able to place these signals in the hands of Educational Media Foundation (EMF) who share a like-minded mission with Salem through their music programming. We are also thankful to our Greenville-Spartanburg staff for their many years of service.”

As the wealthy BJU grads go on to their reward, BJU's con$tiuency gets smaller and smaller.

[naturecoaster]

Citrus County Accepting Hardship Assistance Applications

Citrus County’s Land Section has opened application windows for assistance in several areas. Citrus County Accepting Hardship Assistance Applications FIRE/SOLID WASTE/STORMWATER Hardship Assistance ApplicationThis application is provided to assist Low Income Persons who are Owners of homesteaded Single-Family Parcels or Condominium Residential Unit Parcels with the financial burden created by the imposition of an Assessment. One application will be accepted for the Fire, Solid Waste and Stormwater MSBU’s. Send your completed application together with supporting documentation to:Citrus County Board of County CommissionersATTN: Housing Services/ 2804 W. Marc Knighton Court, #12/ Lecanto, FL 34461Deadline : May 1, 2024Information: Citrus County Housing Services at (352) 527-7520. FIRE PROTECTION Applications for Mobile Home – RV Park Vacancy.This application is available to give each owner of a mobile home park or recreational vehicle (RV) parkthe opportunity to demonstrate the vacancy rate in space occupancy within their park and receive avacancy adjustment to the Fire Protection Assessments. Send your completed application to:Citrus County Land SectionFire Protection MSBU/3600 West Sovereign Path Suite 205/Lecanto, FL 34461Deadline: May 1, 2024 SOLID WASTE Vacancy Reimbursement Application.This application is provided to enable an owner of improved real property, who can demonstrate that a dwelling unit thereon was unoccupied and vacant, January 1, 2023, through and including December 31, 2023, to request reimbursement of the residential Solid Waste MSBU. Send your completed application together with supporting documentation to:Citrus County Land Section-Solid Waste MSBU/3600 W. Sovereign Path Suite 205/Lecanto, FL 34461Deadline: July 1, 2024 STORMWATER Mitigation Credit ApplicationThis application may provide a reduction in the stormwater assessment fee for property owners whose property has specific on-site features that reduces the impact of stormwater runoff. This includes parcelswith: - Detention facilities (in open basins) that discharge stormwater at a controlled rate and provide stormwater treatment. - Retention facilities (in closed basins) that discharge no stormwater. STORMWATER Petition for Review of ESU’s ApplicationThis application is provided for property with a privately maintained and permitted on-site system or tocorrect errors made in the number of ESU’s assigned to your property. Applications are available atwww.citrusbocc.com/stormwater. Send your completed application together with supportingdocumentation to:Citrus County Land SectionStormwater MSBU3600 West Sovereign Path Suite 205/Lecanto, FL 34461Deadline: May 1, 2024Information: (352) 527-5373 UTILITY AVAILABILITY Permanent Reassignment of Development Rights (DVR) ApplicationThis application is only available to property owners affected by the Water and Sewer Utility Availability Assessment. Pursuant to Administrative Regulation (AR) 11.10-1, and for assessment purposes only, property owner(s) of multiple adjoining residential lots that are under the same ownership can permanently surrender future development rights and be recognized for a reduced number of ERP’s through a formal assignment of development rights to the County by applying for Permanent Reassignment of Development Rights (DVR). A properly completed application, with all required documentation and a non-refundable fee to cover processing costs shall be submitted to:Citrus County Land SectionUtility Availability MSBU3600 W. Sovereign Path, Suite 205/Lecanto, FL 34461Deadline: April 13, 2024Requests pertaining to non-residential and other unique lots of record will be reviewed on acase-by-case basis. For any questions, please call the Land Section at (352) 527-5458. Read the full article