#buy here pay here in South Carolina

[botanyshitposts]

ok INCREDIBLY old content originally meant for this blog but in 2018 when i was just a wee lad with a little spinner propeller hat and big rainbow lollipop i went to a carnivorous plant convention in california and met a bunch of people who breed/collect/study these guys. one person was this collector who was slowly working on leaving the hobby or at least no longer growing plants, and he had a bunch of carnivorous plant related files he was charging like 50 cents for or something, and so i came into possession of these, which are examples of the kind of paperwork you have to have done to legally ship/trade endangered species of both plants and animals. functionally very boring paperwork, but something i found like, incredibly fascinating. i blacked out the personal id of the person and then immediately forgot to ever upload them, lmao.

these plants were bred and raised in a greenhouse and sold abroad, not taken from the wild, but because the species are endangered and often protected in their native countries (most of these are nepenthes, asian pitcher plants, a huge family spread throughout oceania and southeast asia), there's a lot more documentation that needs to be done regardless of their origin, both on the end of the seller and on the end of the buyer.

the rabbit hole on carnivorous plant trade is deep and kind of wild. there's plenty of common, non-threatened, greenhouse-grown pitcher plants on the market that people buy all the time, even non-collectors, but there's a whole debate to be had on if it's morally okay to be collecting the more endangered/rare of these plants in the first place. the big argument for breeding is that breeding them in captivity means there's more supply that's not poached from the wild, meaning poachers have less of an incentive to take the risk of taking adult plants from their habitats; from what i've heard, sometimes countries will issue permits for breeders to collect some wild seeds just to create a non-wild breeding pool to drive down the price. predictably, however, you also get people who are very much willing to pay a lot of money to get as rare of a plant as possible.

anyone familiar with the allure valuable plants have had over people throughout history can imagine the rest, but here's an article about a guy who started buying poached plants to enrich his private nepenthes collection, who then got busted by a fish and wildlife service agent embedded in his carvirorous plant circle. the plants this guy was buying were being sold to him without any CITES paperwork or declarations like the ones above; it was literally just a guy in indonesia taking rare plants from the woods around where he lived, selling them over facebook marketplace and ebay, and mailing them overseas as an undeclared 'gift' to get around customs. frighteningly small steps to take on all sides, to be honest.

(also, fun fact: another example of carnivorous plants that get poached are wild venus fly traps, which are only native to north and south carolina in the US. from what i understand it's a mix of people who genuinely did not know it's a native species and people who really are just going out into the woods and digging up plants to sell online. sometimes poaching is closer to home than you'd think!)

anyway. wild and interesting times in the land of plants recovered from a hard drive lmao

[goodstuffhappenedtoday]

Millions of U.S. apples were almost left to rot. Now, they'll go to hungry families

NOVEMBER 27, 2023 By Alan Jinich

It's getting late in the harvest season in Berkeley County, West Virginia and Carla Kitchen's team is in the process of hand-picking nearly half a million pounds of apples. In a normal year, Kitchen would sell to processors like Andros that make applesauce, concentrate, and other products. But this year they turned her away. ... Across the country, growers were left without a market. Due to an oversupply carried over from last year's harvest, growers were faced with a game-time economic decision: Should they pay the labor to harvest, crossing their fingers for a buyer to come along, or simply leave the apples to rot?

Bumper crops, export declines and the weather have contributed to the apple crisis

... While many growers in neighboring states like Maryland and Virginia left their apples to drop. Sen. Joe Manchin of West Virginia was able to convince the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to pay for the apples produced by growers in his state, which only makes up 1% of the national market.

A relief program in West Virginia donated its surplus apples to hunger-fighting charities

This apple relief program, covered under Section 32 of the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1935, purchased $10 million worth of apples from a dozen West Virginia growers. Those apples were then donated to hunger-fighting charities across the country from South Carolina and Michigan all the way out to The Navajo Nation.

Mike Meyer, head of advocacy at The Farmlink Project, says it's the largest food rescue they've ever done and they hope it can serve as a model for their future missions. "There's over 100 billion pounds of produce waste in this country every year; we only need seven billion to drive food insecurity to zero," Meyer says. "We're very happy to have this opportunity. We get to support farmers, we get to fight hunger with an apple. It's one of the most nutritional items we can get into the hands of the food insecure."

At Timber Ridge Fruit Farm in Virginia, owners Cordell and Kim Watt watch a truck from The Farmlink Project load up on their apples before driving out to a food pantry in Bethesda, Md. Despite being headquartered in Virginia, Timber Ridge was able to participate in the apple rescue since they own orchards in West Virginia as well. Cordell is a third-generation grower here and he says they've never had to deal with a surplus this large.

At the So What Else food pantry in Bethesda, Md., apple pallets from Timber Ridge fill the warehouse up to the ceiling. Emanuel Ibanez and other volunteers are picking through the crates, bagging fresh apples into family-sized loads. "I'm just bewildered," Ibanez says. "We have a warehouse full of apples and I can barely walk through it." "People in need got nutritious food out of this program. And that's the most important thing" Executive director Megan Joe says this is the largest shipment of produce they've ever distributed – 10 truckloads over the span of three weeks. The food pantry typically serves 6,000 families, but this shipment has reached a much wider circle. "My coworkers are like, 'Megan, do we really need this many?' And I'm like, yes!" Joe says. "The growing prices in the grocery stores are really tough for a lot of families. And it's honestly gotten worse since COVID."

"It's the first time we've done this type of program, but we believe it can set the stage for the region," Kent Leonhardt, West Virginia's commissioner of agriculture says. "People in need got nutritious food out of this program. And that's the most important thing." Following West Virginia's rescue program, the USDA announced an additional $100 million purchase to relieve the apple surplus in other states around the country. This is the largest government buy of apples and apple products to date. But with the harvest window coming to an end, many growers have already left their apples to drop and rot.

[blue-nebraska]

Hurricane Helene relief for WNC

For the last year and a half, I've been lucky to call Western North Carolina my home. The aftermath of Hurricane Helene here is unfathomable.

This is a compilation of sources from folks in my community: people who have lost their homes, who are bringing survival supplies into the area, and more. I will try to keep it as updated as possible (posting on Oct. 6th). Please support if you have the means, share with others, and keep WNC in your thoughts.

Rural Organizing And Resilience - a grassroots volunteer organization bringing supplies into affected communities

Support Yancey and Mitchell Counties Flood Relief

Celo

Support my friend doing work on the ground - Venmo @/melanie-risch

South Toe Fire Department - is doing rescues in the area. Venmo @/SouthToeFire

Arthur Morgan School - Send a tax-deductible donation to their giving page, resources will get to folks who need it in Celo

Fundraiser for community member to recover from house flood (added 10/23)

Community member whose house is full of mud - Venmo @/heather-downtofarm

Help Natalie and Miguel after Helene - updated 10/23, changed from Venmo link to GoFundMe

Support Meredith and Robert after Hurricane Helene - Meredith and her partner Robert escaped with their pets and their lives in Hurricane Helene, but lost everything else to the flood waters.

Support Nick, Kavita, and the Celo Inn - added 10/23

Spruce Pine

Downtown Spruce Pine - accepting donations via PayPal to which will go directly to local businesses that have suffered significant damage

Treats Studios Helene Relief - webpage for local artists to receive support. Artists are grouped by state, medium, and those in most need of help.

Marshall

The Farm Connection - raising money to directly pay farmers for the pounds of food that they are donating to local relief organizations.

Bakersville

Help Rebuild Bakersville after Hurricane Helene - Help the Bakersville Beautification Association non-profit start from the ground up in reconstructing downtown Bakersville.

Generators for Bakersville - raising money to buy generators for at least 30 families without power (added 10/9) (currently disabled)

Asheville

Pansy Collective and Beloved Asheville - distributing survival supplies to the Asheville community.

Rebuild Melissa's Pottery Studio After Helene - Hurricane Helene wiped out Melissa's Pottery Studio under 20 feet of water, destroying her kiln, and everything else. (currently disabled)

Support a community member in Asheville - Venmo @/Pamela-Demontbreun (added 10/23)

Linktree of resources for Helene mutual aid in WNC

Masterdoc of Helene recovery resources

[lyledebeast]

Men at Play: the Painful Middle of The Patriot

Whenever I rewatch The Patriot, I always complain about how much the middle of the film drags. I understand the middle to be the stretch that takes us from the meeting where General Cornwallis tells Colonel Tavington no more war crimes to the meeting where he reverses that order. This is the part where the militiamen are camping out, destroying supply trains, killing surrendering British soldiers . . . it's like summer camp, but with murder! The problem is that absolutely nothing that happens in this stretch of the film has much impact on the outcome of the war, certainly not the Battle of Cowpens, which is the last major action in the film. I suppose the militia is able to buy the Continental Army time while they wait for the French to arrive, but we don't see the French until Benjamin Martin's long-ass voiceover monologue that takes us from Tavington's death to the end of the film.

Rather than focusing on what the militia is able to accomplish from a military standpoint by working together, the film centers the personal bonds between these men, who are mostly fathers. It's less like a military operation than an Evangelical Christian men's retreat, but with murder! We've got Gabriel assuring Occam that they are fighting to "build a new world," possibly the most unintentionally ironic exchange in a film full of them. We've got Martin and John Billings reminiscing about their dog-eating past to get a rise out of the minister. Most bizarre of all, we have a conversation between Martin and Jean Villeneuve where the latter loudly describes his personal tragedy to justify his critique of Martin's ban on shooting wounded soldiers. The scenes that do not feature boding between Patriot men show interaction between the militamen and their families (except for Occam because this film utilizes Black actors like it had to pay them all Mel Gibson's salary).

By centering the relationships within Martin's merry band of family men, the film obscures the profound conflict of interest between the men's personal goals and their military ones. Their mission is to do all they can to keep the British in South Carolina, which means the crimes Tavington commits all fall on their families and neighbors. They succeed in the military goal while failing abjectly at the personal one--Martin and Villeneuve in particular put more effort into avenging their children who are dead than protecting anyone still alive--so why isn't military success the main focus?

That it is the main focus among the British characters may be owing to none of them actually having families with them . . . or indeed friends in most cases! A clearer reason, though, is that the British are here to work, even it proves to be "an ugly business." It's easy to see O'Hara and Tavington as the angel and devil perched on Cornwallis's shoulders, trying to steer him in moral or immoral directions respectively. Both have the goal of victory, but it means different things to them, and they pursue it in different ways. When O'Hara stops Tavington from drawing his sword on Martin at the prisoner exchange, he first reasons "If you harm him, you condemn our officers." I'm not sure why that works given that Tavington has just arrived and knows nothing of Martin's claims to have British officers in his custody, but when Tavington replies that Martin has killed as many (???) officers already, O'Hara holds firm. "He has shown no aggression here; hence he cannot be touched."

What follows is one of the best moments in the film for a number of reasons, but one I haven't addressed before is the role O'Hara plays. Even though Tavington pursues Martin again, albeit with his sword sheathed, O'Hara does nothing to stop him. The camera does not show him again, but it's easy to imagine the same look of smug enjoyment we see when he describes Martin to Tavington as "your Ghost" when Martin turns and leaves Tavington practically panting with frustrated desire. I'm tempted to evoke my beloved General Hux from the Star Wars Sequel trilogy here: O'Hara doesn't care if the rebels win; he just needs Colonel Tavington to lose!

But, of course, O'Hara does care about winning. He tries to restrain Cornwallis from sending the rest of his force after Tavington when he prematurely charges at the militia, and even after defeat become obvious to Cornwallis, O'Hara is still suggesting strategies to undo the damage. The last time we see O'Hara, he is again pleading with Cornwallis to do the right thing and surrender himself, but once again the major general's ego prevails. Cornwallis never considers defeat a possibility; his concern at the Battle of Cowpens is that Tavington will steal his glory. It is the same concern he shows at their first meeting (in the extended version) after the Battle of Camden where Tavington also led a premature charge. In two different scenes--both cut from the theatrical release, this one and the private meeting just prior to Cowpens--Cornwallis accuses Tavington of seeking glory and Tavington replies that all he wants is victory. I believe Tavington here. He wants to start over, and if his reputation is one that strikes fear into the surviving colonials, he can certainly live with that. It is Cornwallis who wants glory, and his projection of this desire onto Tavington leads to some devastating decisions on his part.

Ironically, because Corwallis's concerns about Tavington are so well-established so early on in the film, it is easier to understand his response than the utter shock and dismay of the militiamen when they find families they did absolutely nothing to protect killed on the orders of the British officer who has been targeting families from the beginning! Whatever military success they are able to achieve, they do so at the cost of their wives and children's lives, and it still contributes less to the Continental Army's win than the dysfunctional relationships between British officers.

[ghoulangerlee]

For the asks! 🖇🍄🌺!!

🖇 what are your favorite asks to answer

lmao stuff about me? i dont know!!! uh gosh, i'd say i love to answer asks about my writing or anything creative ive taken on. i love to answer general questions about things. idk once i got someone who sent me an ask about a computer issue they were having and we worked that out through dms haha. but i also just love general chit chat asks too like, i dont think you could ever go wrong sending me something though I might take six business years to respond haha

🍄 what is something that’s happened in your life that you wish you could go back and change?

Honestly, part of me says that if I could go back, I'd never agree to work for my aunt in 2016 and thus, I'd never agree to work for her again in 2017 after cutting contact with her back in 2013. I'd never have agreed to move into the house across the street from hers and take care of an ailing family friend and take the blame for every single thing that went wrong even though I did everything she asked. I'd never have agreed to let her control me as much as she did.

Which would be very fair of me to say because that would have been so much time that I wouldn't have had to deal with her but. But. It was also the catalyst to get me out of South Carolina. It was the catalyst to get me to leave the fucking state that made me miserable. So like. I don't know. If I could still have the same outcome without all that heartache and pain, 100%

Otherwise, I'd go back and fucking make sure my name was on the beneficiary list for mom's insurance money so my aunt would have never gotten her stupid little hands on it. So I could already have her a headstone on her grave instead of still struggling to pay it off because no one else in this family will help me. I'd make sure that I had photo copies of the forms showing that my name was on it and that I was the beneficiary to her insurance money. I'd use it to buy mom's headstone, pay off some of her debt and use it to better myself like she wanted me to. Instead of fucking paying it into a dog rescue.

lmao sorry that got a bit mean. im still fucking bitter about that to be honest.

🌺 what is the best gift someone has ever given you and why is it so important

there is a joke in here somewhere about how my kid was born literally 3 days before my birthday and that was probably the greatest gift I ever received in my life, barring i guess, the gift of life, ofc. And by joke I mean I'm 100% serious when I say that that kid is the best thing that's ever happened to me, not to be disgustingly domestic on main. that kid and my husband are both the best gifts that I could have ever gotten in life. not 2 be sappy or anything. i guess if we're talking about a physical non-person gift then it'd be my class ring; it's not technically a "gift" because I picked it out but I count it. It's the last remaining thing that I have that my mom bought me before she passed. It's a white gold ring with my graduation year and a ruby gemstone on it. means the absolute world to me and I'd cry and be distraught if I lost it

[nightsidewrestling]

D.U.D.E Part 14 - Sunday Morning (set in 2020)

Note: This is set in a universe where Men VS Women / Intergender matches can happen.

Chapter 1: here Chapter 2: here Chapter 3: here Chapter 4: here Chapter 5: here Chapter 6: here Chapter 7: here Chapter 8: here Chapter 9: here Chapter 10: here Chapter 11: here Chapter 12: here Chapter 13: here

Tags: @piratewithvigor @tantamount-treason @thedollmaker16 @janetreader

Around 2000 Words. 18+ in places (those chapters will be marked as 'Mature / sexual content' just to be safe). Please inform me if you wish to be tagged or untagged from posts. If the text is in italics and orange it's Kirby's inner monologue. If the text is coloured but not in italics, it's either dialogue or a P.O.V change (P.O.V changes will be in bold and translated dialogue will appear in square [ ] brackets), Key below. Quick note on Geia's text colour: Yes I do know that as Greed she should be in yellow but I decided to colour the men's dialogue yellow so Geia was changed to be pink like the other women in the story outside of the main 8.

The Main 8: Damo - Bio. Vi - Bio. Billie - Bio. Geia - Bio. Kirby - Bio. Honey - Bio. Eli - Bio. Sara - Bio.

Kirby's P.O.V:

It had been a month, almost three, since she had told Eddie everything.

He hadn't taken it well at first and she got scared, leaving before Eddie could stop her.

Well done idiot, now we're on our fuckin' own again.

Kirby had taken time away from everything in her life.

Wrestling... her other work... her family... friends... Eddie.

A fresh start, that's what we need.

She had begun attending church every Sunday, part of her hoping to bump into him every time.

Kirby had driven out to Orangeburg, South Carolina and spent the remainder of September there, gathering most of her stuff from Asheville in October and Yonkers in November and moving into a rented apartment in Arlington, Virginia.

She had cut off her ponytail and started dressing more formally. Suits, shirts and slacks. Switching between dark makeup and no makeup. She had even taken up a part-time job in an office to pay for her rent and other expenses. She had even gone to the extent of buying a new phone, keeping the old one purely for the memories.

Kirby's alarm clock starts ringing at'05:00', She gets up and checks the calendar, Tuesday 1st December. Almost three months since starting fresh. Just a few more days and people will stop searching for us.

Her old phone goes off and she answers without thinking, her brain kicks into gear a few seconds later and she doesn't talk, holding the phone next to her ear.

"Kirby, is that you?" Renee's voice asks, followed by Mox and Eddie telling her to put it on speakerphone.

Don't answer the question. Do not speak.

"Kirby, if you're there, answer us... please." Renee requests softly.

Stay silent, they'll hang up soon.

"C'mon, Ma, no more silent treatment," Eddie takes a deep breath, "Tell me how to find ya... tell me where my fuckin' wife is."

"Eddie, don't growl like that." Moxley warns.

Kirby hangs up and leaves the phone on her nightstand, walking into the kitchen and making her morning coffee as she goes through her call log.

Eddie spent all night trying to call us, text after text begging me to pick up the phone.

She reads a couple of his texts out loud, "'Ma please pick up', 'Kirby, I love you, call me', 'tell me where I can find you'... Holy fuck, I gotta call off from work today and sort this out... I can't have Eddie trying to track me down."

Kirby dials her boss and hopes he doesn't pick up on anything, explaining the situation by calling Eddie 'an old friend turned stalker' and praying her boss believes the lie. He does, or at the least seems to, believe what Kirby tells him and lets her have the day off to sort it out. Eddie phones right after she ends the call to her boss, Kirby goes against her gut and answers it.

"Hey Wifey," God, I can see his stupid grin in my head, "Mind telling me where the fuck you are? Or if it's even you I'm talkin' to, Ma?"

Kirby stays silent for a moment, trying to think of what to say.

"You're the one who picked up, the least ya could do is say 'hi'." Eddie grumbles.

Kirby can't help but giggle nervously, "I'll give you that one, Eddie, the least I could do is say hi." She murmurs her thoughts out loud.

"I fuckin' knew you were still alive," Eddie chuckles heartily, "Now ya gotta tell me where you went, our home feels empty without ya. Before ya say it, I know 'technically, Edward, it's just your home'," Eddie does an impression of Kirby before clearing his throat, already choking up slightly, "It's our home, I know ya gave me back the engagement ring, I found it and the note, saying to forget you, but you're still my fiancée... Kirby, please" Eddie sobs, "I'm beggin' ya, sweetheart, come back ta me."

"I'm in Arlington, Virginia." She blurts out before her brain can stop her mouth, "I have an apartment, and a job, and I haven't even spoken to my parents since I left."

"Ya haven't... but what about ya folks, ya family, ya 'obligations to the C.R.C'?"

A wave of emotions hit Kirby all at once, rage, sadness, fear, and all she can muster up as an answer to Eddie... a man she loves so much and hates to hurt, is the most brutally honest thing she's ever said, "I wasn't expecting to be alive for this long after running away... but every time I think of harming myself, I think of you and I can't do it... I know we never got married, but I can't stand the idea of making you a widower."

"I'm gettin' the next flight out there."

"Eddie, don't." She pleads.

"Don't? Ya just told me you've thought of endin' ya life... the life of the most beautiful woman in the world... my Celtic warrior queen, my better half, my angel of death-matches... my bride just fuckin' told me she'd thought of goin' to the grave instead of walkin' down the aisle." Eddie nearly yells down the phone, his emotions getting the better of him.

Kirby sits on her bed and sobs, unable to speak anymore.

"I'm flyin' to Arlington and makin' sure you're okay." Eddie tells her before hanging up.

Kirby texts him her address and apartment number, telling him how to get into the building. She walks to her bathroom and turns the shower on, getting undressed and grabbing a towel, she sits in the bathtub in the path of the water and cries silently.

After what feels like a century she moves, getting out and slowly drying herself off, she's in her underwear when there's a knock at the door... more of a pounding on the door than a knocking.

"Give me a second to get dressed." She calls, her voice weak.

The pounding gets louder and Kirby rushes to open the door, still just in her underwear.

"I fuckin' hate planes, but I didn't wanna drive ten hours to see ya." Eddie mutters, thrusting a bouquet of roses at Kirby.

She steps back and Eddie walks in whilst she inspects the roses.

"Are these-" Kirby goes to ask him why the flowers are covered with plastic and foil.

"I couldn't choose between flowers or chocolates, so I got you chocolate roses, I know, big dumb Eddie Kingston can't decide bet-" Eddie gets cut off by Kirby pulling him into a deep kiss.

It's as if they never parted, Eddie wrapping his arms around her waist, and resting his hands on her ass, Kirby wraps her arms around his shoulders, and chucks his baseball cap at the couch. He smirks against her lips, biting her bottom lip and roughening up the kiss, smacking her ass which makes her moan against his lips, just enough room for him to slip his tongue in her mouth. Kirby pulls away when air becomes a need and not an excuse.

"Ya like them?" Eddie asks softly.

"Like isn't the right word, this is so fuckin' genius of ya, I fuckin' knew you were smarter than how you act."

"Genius of me? Ya not mad I got you chocolates and not flowers?"

"Flowers die and you can't eat them when you feel down, chocolates don't and they make me happy... chocolate roses," Kirby beams, "well, they're... they're fuckin' genius, ya don't have all the packaging of a stupid box, with stupid little info cards, ya don't have ta throw them out because they're wilting... they're..." Kirby trails off, unable to come up with the right word.

"They're you," Eddie whispers, "Beautiful and pretty, and they taste so damn good, especially when you shouldn't be eatin' them 'cause ya know you'll get caught." He smirks.

"Does it always come back to sex with you, Eddie?" She teases, shaking her head softly.

"Not always, but when I think of you, my mind tends to go visual." He winks.

"Eddie, ya haven't seen nor heard from me in almost three months and all-"

He cuts Kirby off by kissing her, lifting her so her groin is level with his, carrying her to her dining table and putting her down on top of it. He weaves one hand into her hair and the other into her boxer shorts, caressing her inner thigh.

"Do I have ya consent, my bride-to-be?" He teases.

"Yes, Eddie... I missed how filling you can be." She whispers.

It takes Eddie all of five seconds to strip them both, carrying Kirby to the bed over his shoulder. He stands above her for a moment, taking in the changes she's made to herself. Not many, but a few noticeable differences, like the fresh bruises on Kirby's knees and shins, the cuts, scabs and scrapes on her arms, and her much shorter hair.

He takes his time, kissing from her fingertips to her neck, first on her right side then her left, smirking as he kisses from her neck down to her crotch. Eddie teases her with his tongue, moaning at the return of her taste to his lips.

"How did my lady get hurt?" He whispers as he moves to make out with her as he makes love to her.

"I may have had a couple trips and accidents recently, none I am happy to talk about." Kirby murmurs, moaning when Eddie starts thrusting.

"Ya can tell me, Ma, it's why we're a couple. So you have someone who'll listen to ya problems."

"I fell down the stairs twice in the last month, once by tripping over my own feet, and once by a stray cat, running in front of me when I was jogging up the stairs after work."

"And ya arms?"

"I got in a scuffle with someone at a bar, scratched up my left arm in the process. The next week I was jogging, with headphones in, and someone tried to grab me. They went to stab me, I used my right arm as a shield."

"And now ya husband's home, so nobody can fuck wit' ya ever again." Eddie smirks.

"I don't have the ring anymore, back to square one on the whole marriage thing." Kirby shrugs.

Eddie doubles his pace, groaning as he tries not to cum early, "Kirby, would ya be my girlfriend?"

Kirby moans out the words, "Yes Eddie." as she cums.

Eddie smirks as he follows her over the edge... literally, groaning in pain as he lands on his back on the floor, all 250 pounds of Kirby landing on top of him.

"Holy fuck, Eddie, are you okay, Papi?" Kirby asks, checking the fall hasn't given him a concussion.

"I'm fine Kir-" Eddie goes silent as Kirby picks him up in a bridal carry and places him on the bed.

"Sorry, I got concerned..." She whispers sheepishly.

"Shh, shh," Eddie puts his hand over her mouth, "ya could've fuckin' been carryin' me over ya shoulder every time we've had sex... you can carry me?"

"Well, you're not actually that heavy, I have picked up and carried men double your size, Eddie... would you, uhm, would you like a coffee?" She murmurs, sitting next to him on the bed.

"Marry me." Eddie blurts out.

"What did you just say?" She asks, raising an eyebrow at him.

"Marry me, at the nearest fuckin' chapel we can find, marry me."

"Eddie, I can't just drop everything to be in that world again, no."

"Kirby, I know I sound like I've lost my fuckin' mind, but... I need you in my life. I need my smart, sexy, strong, unafraid to tell her own father when he's crossin' a line, badass babe in my life. I can't be me anymore, not without you... Tony noticed that after ya left I got cruel, I started actually wantin' to hurt whoever I was facin'."

"I can't just drop everything all over again." She gets up, heading to the bathroom.

Eddie follows her, "Kirby, you are my calm. You are beautiful. Your blonde hair is like a sandy beach, your blue eyes are like the ocean, your scars show you've lived a story worth telling, those little beauty marks and freckles are like stars and ya pale skin... like paper, marked with ink, or snow, fragile but beautiful."

[newstfionline]

Monday, November 25, 2024

Large Swath of US Faces Power Supply Risk During Extreme Cold (Bloomberg) The entire US Northeast faces an elevated threat of electricity shortages this winter in case of extreme cold weather, in part due to limited capacity on natural gas pipelines that supply power plants. All US regions have sufficient electricity supplies to meet their needs in normal weather conditions, the North American Electric Reliability Corp. said Thursday in its annual winter reliability assessment. But harsh weather could threaten energy reserves across a broad swath of the country, from the Northeast to the Midwest and Texas. Prolonged cold can cause power plants to break down even as electricity demand soars, while short days with low winds can slash renewable generation. The Northeast, according to NERC, faces the added problem of limited natural gas pipeline capacity hampering the ability of power plants to burn more of the fuel when needed. In last year’s winter assessment, only New England was flagged for pipeline constraints—now, the problem extends as far west as Chicago and as far south as North Carolina.

The rising price of paying the national debt is a risk for Trump’s promises on growth and inflation (AP) Donald Trump has big plans for the economy—and a big debt problem that will be a hurdle to delivering on them. Trump has bold ideas on tax cuts, tariffs and other programs, but high interest rates and the price of repaying the federal government’s existing debt could limit what he’s able to do. Not only is the federal debt at roughly $36 trillion, but the spike in inflation after the coronavirus pandemic has pushed up the government’s borrowing costs such that debt service next year will easily exceed spending on national security. The higher cost of servicing the debt gives Trump less room to maneuver with the federal budget as he seeks income tax cuts. It’s also a political challenge because higher interest rates have made it costlier for many Americans to buy a home or new automobile. And the issue of high costs helped Trump reclaim the presidency in November’s election.

Can RFK Jr make America's diet healthy again? (BBC) Robert F Kennedy Jr has set his sights on changing how Americans eat and drink. From the dyes in Fruit Loops cereal to seed oils in chicken nuggets, Kennedy—who is President-elect Trump's choice to lead the Department of Health and Human Services—has long spoken out against ingredients that he says hurt Americans' health. “We are betraying our children by letting [food] industries poison them,” Kennedy said at a rally in November, after he had ended his independent presidential bid and backed Donald Trump. But if Kennedy hopes to target junk food, he will first have to shake up the country's food regulations—and run up against Big Food. “What he's suggesting is taking on the food industry,” said former New York University nutrition professor Marion Nestle. “Will Trump back him up on that? I’ll believe it when I see it.”

Afraid of losing the US-Canada trade pact, Mexico alters its laws and removes Chinese parts (AP) Mexico has been taking a bashing lately for allegedly serving as a conduit for Chinese parts and products into North America, and officials here are afraid a re-elected Donald Trump or politically struggling Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau could try to leave their country out of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada free trade agreement. Mexico’s ruling Morena party is so afraid of losing the trade deal that President Claudia Sheinbaum said Friday the government has gone on a campaign to get companies to replace Chinese parts with locally made ones. While Sheinbaum claimed Mexico had been working on that effort since t he 2021 global supply chain crisis—when factories around the world were stalled by a lack of parts and particularly computer chips from Asia—it appears to be an uphill battle. Even the United States has faced big challenges in moving chip production back home despite billions in subsidies and incentives.

Haiti wonders what’s next as gang violence surges and UN peacekeeping mission flops (AP) When Kenyan police arrived in Haiti as part of a U.N.-backed mission earlier this year to tackle gang violence, hopes were high. Coordinated gang attacks on prisons, police stations and the main international airport had crippled the country’s capital and forced the prime minister to resign, plunging Haiti into an unprecedented crisis. But the crisis has only deepened since the international policing contingent arrived. The main international airport closed for the second time this year after gangs opened fire on commercial flights in mid-November, striking a flight attendant. Gunmen also are attacking once-peaceful communities to try and seize control of the entire capital, taking advantage of political infighting that led to the abrupt dismissal of the prime minister earlier this month. Now, a new prime minister is tasked with turning around a nation that sees no escape from its troubles as Haitians wonder: How did the country reach this point?

US bribery and fraud charges are a big test yet for India’s Adani, one of Asia’s richest men (AP) Indian billionaire Gautam Adani, one of Asia’s richest men, may be facing his biggest challenge yet with an indictment by U.S. prosecutors for alleged fraud and bribery. But it’s unclear just how the case will affect his businesses and own future—as well as the Indian economy and government. Adani, a major power player in India perceived as close to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, was charged Wednesday with securities fraud and conspiracy to commit securities and wire fraud at a court in Brooklyn, New York. The test for the tycoon and his multibillion dollar empire spawning everything from energy and ports to media and agriculture, comes just after the 62-year-old founder and his sprawling business empire had bounced back after losing more than $60 billion in market value in early 2023 following allegations of stock price manipulation and fraud by the short-selling firm Hindenburg Research. It also raises questions about corporate governance and crony capitalism in India’s economy, which Modi has vowed to make the world’s third largest, intensifying scrutiny on the outsized influence of large, family-run conglomerates. Asia’s richest man is another Indian billionaire, Mukesh Ambani of Reliance Industries.

Russia says US using Taiwan to stir crisis in Asia (Reuters) The United States is using Taiwan to provoke a serious crisis in Asia, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko told TASS news agency in remarks published on Sunday, reiterating Moscow's backing of China's stance on Taiwan. "We see that Washington, in violation of the 'one China' principle that it recognises, is strengthening military-political contacts with Taipei under the slogan of maintaining the 'status quo', and increasing arms supplies," Rudenko told the state news agency. "The goal of such obvious U.S. interference in the region's affairs is to provoke the PRC (People's Republic of China) and generate a crisis in Asia to suit its own selfish interests." China views democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, a claim that Taiwan's government rejects.

Israeli Strike in the Heart of Beirut Kills at Least 20 (NYT) An Israeli airstrike on a residential building in central Beirut killed at least 20 people on Saturday, the Lebanese Health Ministry said, part of an intensifying Israeli military campaign that appears aimed at pressuring Hezbollah into a cease-fire deal. The strike was an attempt to assassinate a top Hezbollah military commander, Mohammad Haidar, according to three Israeli defense officials who requested anonymity to discuss sensitive military operations. Hezbollah officials on Saturday afternoon said that none of the group’s leaders were at the site of the airstrike, and later in the day, one of the Israeli officials said Mr. Haidar was not killed. The death toll in the latest strike was expected to rise, and at least 66 people were injured, according to the Health Ministry. The strike came just after 4 a.m., jolting Beirut residents awake with thundering explosions that left much of the city enveloped in acrid smoke. It was the third strike this week in central Beirut, an area that had largely been spared since the war between Hezbollah and Israel escalated.

War fatigue deepens in Israel as deaths mount and fighting expands (Washington Post) Ari Krauss, a reservist in the Israeli military’s elite Golani Brigade, said he spent his days inside Gaza exploding underground tunnels. At night, he recalled, he would join the other fathers in uniform on a sandy hill, trying to get enough cellphone bars to FaceTime his infant daughter. His day job seemed like a distant memory. Early in the war, the brigade sent a letter to his company apologizing for drafting him but committing to no date for his full return. Being a soldier, the letter made clear, was now his main calling. Krauss’s situation, or some version of it, is shared by some 80,000 Israeli reservists who are planning to leave, or have already left, families, jobs and studies to serve on the front lines of Israel’s grinding wars in Gaza and Lebanon. Increasingly, some are choosing not to report for duty, putting further strain on an overextended military amid an ever-widening regional war. Nadav Shoshani, a spokesman for the Israel Defense Forces, said in a briefing last week that the army’s enlistment numbers are down by about 15 percent since the period after the Oct. 7, 2023, attacks. More than 800 soldiers have been killed since October 2023. “Wherever you look—the economic crisis, the toll on the reservists and their families, and of course the dead and the wounded—Israeli society is definitely at the edge of its capacity,” said Gayil Talshir, a political analyst at Hebrew University.

More aid workers have been killed in 2024 than in any other year, UN says (AP) More aid workers, health care staffers, delivery personnel and other humanitarians have been killed in 2024 than in any other single year, the United Nations reported Friday. Bloodshed in the Middle East has been the single-biggest cause of the 281 deaths among humanitarians globally this year, according to the U.N. Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. Humanitarians “are working courageously and selflessly in places like Gaza, Sudan, Lebanon, Ukraine and so on. They show the best humanity has to offer, and they are getting killed in return—in record numbers,” OCHA spokesman Jens Laerke said. A total of 268 of the humanitarians killed—including from non-U.N. organizations like the Red Cross and Red Crescent—were national staff, while 13 were international staff.

Giving thanks (AP) It’s the season of giving thanks, and being in the mood for gratitude shapes who we are as a species and how we connect with the people around us. “This is something that is part of our human DNA,” said Sarah Schnitker, a psychologist at Baylor University. “It is a glue, in a sense, that holds us together.” Giving thanks might be good for you, too: A 2016 study found that people who wrote letters of gratitude reported better mental health and saw changes in their brain activity—even months down the line. But researcher Jenae Nelson pointed out that recognizing the giver, not just the gift, is key. So, if Thanksgiving has you in a mood for gratitude, she suggested focusing on thanking the people in your life, rather than just making “gratitude lists” of the stuff you have. “It’s not just about stuff and materialism,” Nelson said. “It’s about relationships, and the things that people do for you, and then the things that you can in turn do back for other people.”

[thatstormygeek]

Kobach asserted the HHS rule would make as many as 200,000 DACA recipients eligible for health insurance through the marketplace. His total of DACA participants included 4,350 in Kansas and 2,550 in Missouri. In terms of other plaintiff states, the numbers ranged from 7,810 in Virginia, 7,450 in Indiana, 6,360 in Tennessee and 4,840 in South Carolina to 220 in New Hampshire, 130 in North Dakota and 80 in Montana. Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall said extending health insurance through the ACA to 3,460 DACA recipients in Alabama represented a new “assault on the American worker.”

source

Okay. Let's talk about this for a bit.

First, some vocab. For those who don't know, DACA is Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. Also known as "Dreamers" (referring to the Dream Act Congress considered in 2001), those eligible for DACA protection were brought to the US as undocumented children. They have lived here the vast, vast majority of their lives. And there is no path to citizenship.

Again, people who were brought to this country as minors - sometimes infants - and raised here. Some are not even aware they are not citizens. They are as much a part of the US as anyone born here. And yet, they are cursed to remain "illegal" for as long as they remain here.

Just to drive this home a little more:

The Dream Act was first introduced to Congress in 2001. It would have created a pathway to citizenship for immigrant youth. A version of the Dream Act has been introduced in every Congressional session since then (including in 2023), though it has never been passed by the full Congress. The closest the Dream Act has ever come to becoming law was in 2010 when it passed the House but fell short by five votes in the Senate.

So, not every "dreamer" is a DACA recipient, because there are additional requirements for the program AND it's not automatic. Nor is it ongoing. DACA status must be renewed every two years.

Again, people who have lived in this country their entire lives. Would likely love to become full citizens, but in their copious wisdom, the PTB decided that giving them a chance to do that would be just wrong. So instead, in order to legally live, work, drive, go to school, etc., these folks have to jump through a bunch of government hoops every two years.

Even better, since our political system is broken as fuck, they get to be aware that any election could spell the end of their protection. And, as they voluntary provided the government with all of their information, they are pretty damn easy targets.

SO! Now that we've covered who we're talking about...

This new controversy is about allowing DACA recipients - remember, these are people who deal with bureaucratic red tape and the threat of deportation just to do stuff the rest of us take for granted - the opportunity to purchase health insurance through the marketplace.

Yes. Over a dozen GOP attorneys general are suing the government to make sure a tiny percentage of people - who work and pay taxes - can't buy health insurance.

But wait! There's more!

Let's check out those numbers:

According to the 2020 US census,

The adult population of the US is over 250,000,000. Which means that 200,000 number up there (which is the maximum number of folks we're looking at) represents just 0.08% of the adult population of the country.

The adult population of Kansas is just over 2.2 million. So that 4,350 up there is 0.2% of the KS population

Missouri? Over 4.7 million adults, so 2500 is only 0.05% of our population.

Virginia - 0.12%

Indiana - 0.14%

Tennessee - 0.12%

South Carolina - 1.2%

New Hampshire - 0.02%

North Dakota - 0.02%

Montana - 0.009%

Alabama - 0.09%

So yeah. Of the 14 states suing to stop this, there is only one in which the number of people who might qualify to - again - BUY health insurance reaches even 1% of the state's adult population. There weren't numbers for Idaho, Iowa, Nebraska, or Ohio, but considering the results for the 10 we did have numbers for, I'm seriously doubting those are major outliers.

I know I keep hitting this, but this isn't even giving away something for free. While it is possible to get no-cost coverage through the marketplace, you have to meet fairly strict income guidelines. And yes, the marketplace is subsidized by taxes. You know who pays taxes? Fucking undocumented immigrants.

Hundreds of words later, the real TLDR is that a bunch of Republican attorneys general are suing the federal government to make sure a tiny percentage of the population continues to be shut out of some of the programs they pay for.

This is the modern GOP in a nutshell: cruelty and racism and greed all wrapped up with a fascist bow.

[joshrgomez]

This is facts. Lake Lanier has this but oconee lake doesn’t neither does lake Murray in South Carolina.

maybe multiple lakes don’t I’m sure of it. I’d love to even rent kayaks in Covington. We have lake Jackson and lake Varner here. No ones renting out kayaks in a 200 mile radius. ZERO COMPETITION.

people BRING THEIR OWN kayaks to the lakes or rivers. You don’t actually have a STORE or just a place to rent out kayaks. It’d be great during the summer and spring early fall. That’s at least 7-8 months!! Where you can rent out kayaks. Close down the store during the winter so you don’t pay for the unnecessary light and water bill.

I’ll most likely have to buy the lot property so I’m not leasing shit.

it’s not cheap but it’s not too expensive. Just a risk and most people HATE taking risks. I love it. Especially when it’s rewarded.

Originally I was going to have Joey help me. I can just hire some highschooler who needs a summer job. Again it’s seasonal with massive returns.

[homebuyersinusa]

We Buy Houses in South Carolina: Your Ultimate Guide

Introduction

Are you considering selling your house in South Carolina? Whether you're relocating, facing foreclosure, or dealing with an inherited property, selling your home can be a daunting task. But fear not, because at RedHead Homes Properties, we specialize in making the selling process as seamless and stress-free as possible. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about selling your house in South Carolina. From understanding the market to navigating the legalities, we've got you covered every step of the way south carolina capital gains tax.

Understanding the South Carolina Real Estate Market

Overview of the South Carolina Housing Market

South Carolina's real estate market is dynamic and diverse, offering a range of opportunities for both buyers and sellers. From bustling urban centers to charming coastal towns and picturesque rural landscapes, South Carolina has something for everyone. Understanding the current state of the market is crucial for sellers looking to get the best possible price for their homes.

Trends in Home Prices

Home prices in South Carolina have been steadily increasing in recent years, driven by strong demand and limited inventory. According to recent data, the median home price in South Carolina is [insert data here], representing a [insert percentage]% increase from [insert previous year]. By staying informed about current market trends, sellers can better position themselves to make informed decisions about pricing their homes.

Preparing Your House for Sale

Curb Appeal Matters

First impressions are everything when it comes to selling your house. Improving your home's curb appeal can significantly increase its perceived value and attract more potential buyers. Simple upgrades such as landscaping, painting the front door, and installing outdoor lighting can make a world of difference.

Staging Your Home

Staging is an essential aspect of the selling process, as it allows potential buyers to envision themselves living in the space. Decluttering, depersonalizing, and rearranging furniture are all effective staging techniques that can help showcase your home's best features.

Repairs and Renovations

Addressing any necessary repairs and renovations before listing your home can help increase its marketability and ultimately fetch a higher sale price. From fixing leaky faucets to updating outdated kitchens and bathrooms, investing in your home's maintenance and aesthetics can pay off in the long run.

Marketing Your Property

Professional Photography

High-quality photographs are essential for capturing the attention of potential buyers in today's digital age. Hiring a professional photographer to showcase your home in its best light can significantly enhance its online presence and generate more interest from buyers.

Online Listings

In addition to traditional marketing methods, such as yard signs and print advertisements, online listings are a powerful tool for reaching a broader audience of potential buyers. Platforms like Zillow, Realtor.com, and Redfin allow sellers to showcase their properties to thousands of prospective buyers with just a few clicks.

Open Houses and Showings

Hosting open houses and private showings is a critical component of the selling process, as it gives buyers the opportunity to experience your home firsthand. Creating a welcoming and inviting atmosphere during these events can help potential buyers envision themselves living in the space.

Navigating the Selling Process

Negotiating Offers

Once you receive an offer on your home, it's time to negotiate the terms of the sale. Working with an experienced real estate agent can help ensure that you get the best possible price for your home while also navigating any contingencies or special conditions.

Home Inspections and Appraisals

Before closing the deal, the buyer will typically conduct a home inspection to identify any potential issues with the property. Additionally, the lender will require an appraisal to determine the fair market value of the home. Addressing any issues that arise during these processes is essential for ensuring a smooth closing.

Closing the Sale

Congratulations, you've accepted an offer on your home! The final step in the selling process is closing the sale, where all parties sign the necessary paperwork, and the funds are transferred. Working with a reputable title company or real estate attorney can help ensure that the closing process goes off without a hitch.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: How quickly can I sell my house in South Carolina? A: The timeline for selling your house in South Carolina can vary depending on various factors such as market conditions, location, and the condition of your home. At RedHead Homes Properties, we offer fast and hassle-free solutions for homeowners looking to sell quickly.

Q: Do I need to make repairs before selling my house? A: While making repairs and renovations can help increase your home's marketability and sale price, they are not always necessary. At RedHead Homes Properties, we buy houses in South Carolina in any condition, so you can sell your home as-is without the need for costly repairs.

Q: How much does it cost to sell my house in South Carolina? A: The cost of selling your house in South Carolina can vary depending on factors such as real estate agent commissions, closing costs, and any repairs or renovations you choose to make. At RedHead Homes Properties, we cover all closing costs and fees, so you can sell your home without any out-of-pocket expenses.

Q: Will I need to pay capital gains taxes when selling my house? A: In most cases, homeowners are exempt from paying capital gains taxes on the sale of their primary residence if they have lived in the home for at least two of the past five years. However, it's always a good idea to consult with a tax professional to understand your specific tax obligations.

Q: Can I sell my house if it's in foreclosure? A: Yes, you can still sell your house if it's in foreclosure, but time is of the essence. Selling your home quickly can help you avoid foreclosure and protect your credit score. At RedHead Homes Properties, we specialize in helping homeowners facing foreclosure find solutions that work for them.

Q: How do I get started with selling my house to RedHead Homes Properties? A: Getting started is easy! Simply fill out our online form or give us a call to schedule a free consultation. We'll assess your property and make you a fair cash offer, with no obligations or hidden fees.

Conclusion

Selling your house in South Carolina doesn't have to be stressful or overwhelming. With the right knowledge and resources, you can navigate the selling process with confidence and ease. Whether you're looking to sell quickly or maximize your profits, RedHead Homes Properties is here to help every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about our hassle-free solutions for selling your house in South Carolina

[sportsconvergence]

Come gather 'round people Wherever you roam And admit that the waters Around you have grown And accept it that soon You'll be drenched to the bone If your time to you is worth savin' And you better start swimmin' Or you'll sink like a stone For the times they are a-changin'

– Bob Dylan

Two years ago, I said conference realignment wasn’t dead. But I had no idea it was going to look like this.

Just think about what’s happened since Georgia beat TCU in the National Title game back on January 9th:

February 9 – Texas and Oklahoma negotiate a buy-out to leave the Big 12 for the SEC one year sooner than originally planned so they can start conference play in 2024.

June 30 – The PAC-12 announces they have reached an agreement to let Southern Cal and UCLA to begin play in the Big Ten in 2024.

July 27 – Colorado announces they will leave the PAC-12 for the Big 12, starting in 2024.

August 3 – Arizona, Arizona State, and Utah leave the PAC-12 for the Big 12, also starting in 2024.

August 4 – Washington and Oregon leave the rapidly evaporating PAC-12 for the Big Ten, beginning play in 2024.

And it’s not over.  There are two big shoes left to drop.

The first is the ACC. They are caught between the rock of $100 million per school payouts in other conferences and the hard place of their rigid grant of rights agreement that seems destined to keep their teams in second class status through 2036.  We should expect grumbling from Clemson, Florida State, and North Carolina to grow louder as we move forward.

The second is Notre Dame, whose exclusive football media deal with NBC expires in 2025.  They currently get $26 million a year from NBC.  That seemed like big bucks when they signed it but it’s merely walking around money now.  Will the Irish be forced into conference affiliation?  Probably, if they want to keep pace with the market.

For college football purists, all of this change is unfortunate. However, it was inevitable. Evolutionary change was absolutely going to happen given all the money that’s at stake.  There was no going back, and the status quo wasn’t sustainable. 

What will the college football landscape look like in ten years?  Tough to say, but I think it is not unreasonable to expect a formal confederation of the Power Conferences (right now Big Ten, SEC, and Big 12) into their own playoff and championship – a Premier League with a playoff and no relegation, if you will.  Everyone else will be stuck with the NCAA trying to figure things out.

Or it could be something else entirely.  We’ll see.

As far as this season goes, here’s what I’m thinking about Clemson, Michigan, and South Carolina.

Clemson – One of the things I like about Dabo Swinney is he doesn’t hesitate to make a change when change is clearly needed.  His hire of Garrett Riley, late of TCU, is only the latest example of that.  My suspicion is that change will pay off in big ways this fall.  I still don’t know if the Tigers are fully back to their play-off level of a few years ago.  I’m thinking 10-2 in the regular season, with another ACC title game appearance.  After that? We’ll see.

Michigan – All the pieces are in place for the Maize and Blue to make another playoff appearance.  The offense should be fantastic this year and most of the key pieces return on the defense.  The schedule sets up nicely too, with four cupcakes in September before conference play begins. It’s a good thing the cupcakes are there because Jim Harbaugh will be serving a three-game suspension in September for his mischief with the NCAA.  I don’t suspect we’ve heard the end of that, BTW. The Wolverines were undefeated in the regular season last year, but part of me doesn’t see that happening again this year.  I’ll say 11-1 in the regular season.  After that? We’ll see.

South Carolina – The Gamecocks exceeded expectations in Shane Beamer’s first two years – can they keep it up in 2023?  A change at offensive coordinator seems to have given new life and enthusiasm to the players. If the practice excitement carries over to game day, they should score more points this fall.  But will the defense be better? Can they pressure the quarterback, get more turnovers, and give the offense good field position?  The defense, and the perennial questions about the offensive line, are the keys to the season for the Garnet and Black.  Also, it would be really nice if they can avoid blowout losses. The schedule, tough as usual, does seem a bit more manageable.  I’ll say 9-3 in the regular season and a nicer bowl game.

[weddingrings40]

Best Quality Diamonds Direct | USA & Worldwide

Boasting an inventory of thousands of diamond jewelry for sale, it’s hard not to find what you want from Best Quality Diamonds Direct. Best jewelry store for diamond rings, engagement rings, wedding rings, diamond tennis chains, diamond tennis bracelets, diamond earrings, gold jewelry, and moissanite. Diamonds Direct Near Me.

Where to Buy Diamond Engagement Ring

Getting married? The engagement ring and wedding rings you select for you and your fiancée will be symbols of your love and commitment for the rest of your life.

Although quality engagement rings and wedding bands (like all fine jewelry) come at a cost, there is no reason you should pay what the mainstream jewelry industry asks you to pay for these rings. It is very possible to save money on engagement rings — in fact, you may be able to save up to 50% off the typical retail price of a diamond engagement ring, without compromising on the stones or setting you want. Here’s where to look. Find best carat diamond rings.

Buy Diamonds

Nationwide USA Alabama | Alaska | Arizona | Arkansas | California | Colorado | Connecticut | Delaware | Florida | Georgia | Hawaii | Idaho | Illinois | Indiana | Iowa | Kansas | Kentucky | Louisiana | Maine | Maryland | Massachusetts | Michigan | Minnesota | Mississippi | Missouri | Montana | Nebraska | Nevada | New Hampshire | New Jersey | New Mexico | New York | North Carolina | North Dakota | Ohio | Oklahoma | Oregon | Pennsylvania | Rhode Island | South Carolina | South Dakota | Tennessee | Texas | Utah | Vermont | Virginia | Washington | West Virginia | Wisconsin | Wyoming | Washington DC (District of Columbia) Worldwide (International)  Afghanistan, Aland Islands, Albania, Algeria, American Samoa, Andorra, Angola, Anguilla, Antarctica, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Aruba, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Belize, Benin, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bolivia, Plurinational State of Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Bouvet Island, British Indian Ocean Territory, Brunei Darussalam, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cabo Verde, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Cayman Islands, Central African Republic, Chad, Chile, China, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Colombia, Comoros, Congo, Congo, The Democratic Republic of The Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Cote D'ivoire, Croatia, Cuba, Curacao, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Estonia, Ethiopia, Falkland Islands (Malvinas), Faroe Islands, Fiji, Finland, France, French Guiana, French Polynesia, French Southern Territories, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Gibraltar, Greece, Greenland, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guam, Guatemala, Guernsey, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Heard Island and Mcdonald Islands, Holy See, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Islamic Republic of Iraq, Ireland, Isle of Man, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jersey, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Korea, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Republic of Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Latvia, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Libya, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macao, Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Martinique, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mayotte, Mexico, Micronesia, Federated States of Moldova, Republic of Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Montserrat, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, Niue, Norfolk Island, Northern Mariana Islands, Norway, Oman, Pakistan, Palau, Palestine, State of Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Pitcairn, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Reunion, Romania, Russian Federation, Rwanda, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan Da Cunha, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Martin (French Part), Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Sao Tome and Principe, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Sint Maarten (Dutch Part), Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, Somalia, South Africa, South Georgia and The South Sandwich Islands, South Sudan, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Suriname, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Syrian Arab Republic, Taiwan, Province of China, Tajikistan, Tanzania, United Republic of Thailand, Timor-Leste, Togo, Tokelau, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Turks and Caicos Islands, Tuvalu, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, United States Minor Outlying Islands, United States of America, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Vietnam, Virgin Islands, British, Virgin Islands, U.S., Wallis and Futuna, Western Sahara, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe

Where to Buy Gold Jewelry

1) A brief history of Gold.

a. Gold jewelry has been valued by humans since before ancient Egypt rose to greatness. Since gold appears in nature in its native state at a high level of purity, early humans would find gold nuggets in streams or in other deposits. Gold flakes have been found inside caves where prehistoric drawings adorn the walls suggesting that early humans discovered gold and valued it for its aesthetic qualities. Gold is a very noble metal. This means that gold can easily be formed by striking it into shapes or plates which then can be carved or turned into coins. Alexander the Great is said to have funded his campaigns using gold that his troops mined along the way in his travels. Ancient Egyptians covered sarcophagus and other items with gold to praise their gods and pharaohs. Fast forward to modern times and we are using gold not only for jewelry and coins, but for electronics, surgical implants, and other uses which exploit gold’s heat and electrical conductivity.

2) Gold Sources, Purity and Measurement.

a. Gold can be found in almost every country throughout the world. Gold is either found in alluvial deposits which are caused by rivers exposing gold deposits or in mining operations where large quantities of earth are moved and processed to extract gold. Gold naturally occurs in purities of 85% or higher. Gold is heavier than other minerals found around it and therefore it is easy to separate using water sluices. Once gold is separated from the minerals which surround it, it is refined using either a chemical method in which gold is dissolved in a solution called aqua regia, which is a strong acid solution, or it is melted along with mercury which causes impurities to concentrate in a layer of the melted gold which is called slag. Once the slag is removed, gold has been refined to 100% pure.

b. Gold is a very easy metal to alloy. This means it can be combined with other metals to achieve production goals which would make a harder metal or a metal of a different color. For example gold is alloyed with copper to make rose gold and with tin and silver to make white gold. Aside from this gold is also dissolved in solutions to create electroplating applications. These applications allow gold to be plated onto wire and for other industrial purposes.

c. In jewelry gold purity is defined by Karat. 24 karat gold is defined as gold which has 24 out of 24 parts made of pure gold. Pure gold is very soft and seldom used for jewelry as it is easy to bend and wears and scratches way too quickly. 18 karat gold, or gold which has 18 parts pure gold and 6 parts of something else, is commonly used to make high end jewelry. 14 karat gold or gold that is 14 parts pure gold and 10 parts something else, is also used to make jewelry as it is harder and more durable than 18 karat gold. Gold is measured in Troy Ounces. The old question what weighs more an ounce of gold or an ounce of feathers is actually a trick question. Gold is measured in Troy Ounces and feathers in Avoirdupois Ounces. There are 31.1 grams in a Troy Ounce and 28.35 grams in an avoirdupois ounce. Therefore the Troy ounce, the ounce of gold, is heavier than the avoirdupois ounce. Conversely, the troy pound is lighter than the avoirdupois pound. Thus making the pound of feathers heavier than the pound of gold.

3) Gold Stamps and Identification.

a. The Federal Trade Commission regulates the trade of precious metals and directs manufacturers on how to stamp and identify gold. In the United States an item must be 10 Karat Gold or higher karat to be called gold. Also, gold that is plated must be plated with 10 karat gold or better to be called gold plated. Gold jewelry fineness is identified by a stamp which tell you how pure the gold used in the piece is. 417 or 41.7 percent gold is 10 karat gold. 585 or 58.5 percent gold is 14 karat gold. 750 or 75 percent gold is 18 karat gold. Normally a piece is either stamped with a three digit number or the actual karat content, such as 14K. Jewelry which is gold plated or gold filled is stamped with a GP or GF after the karat of the gold. For example 18 KGF, denoting that this piece of jewelry was manufactured using 18 Karat Gold Filled. Gold filled jewelry is jewelry manufactured using a solid layer of gold which has been mechanically bonded to a base material such as silver or a base metal like pewter. Gold plated (GP) is when an electroplating method is used to deposit a very thin layer of gold onto silver or a base metal.

Where to Buy Moissanite

If you are not yet familiar with Moissanite, it is a gem-quality silicon carbide that is frequently mistaken for a diamond due to its similar appearance. However, it is important to note that Moissanite is not a diamond simulant, but rather a superior alternative that boasts exceptional fire and brilliance. Its exceptional hardness also makes it an excellent choice for creating heirloom-quality jewelry, as it is highly resistant to scratches, chips, and breakage. Furthermore, our Moissanites are expertly cut and polished to a higher standard than the majority of diamonds commonly found in engagement rings.

What if a gemstone existed that surpassed the luster, brilliance, and fire of a diamond? Moissanite is just that gemstone. Originally discovered in a meteorite, Moissanite exhibits the same captivating beauty that is so highly prized in diamonds, but it outshines them with even greater sparkle. Moissanite rings not only rivals diamonds in terms of their aesthetic appeal and durability, it surpasses them. The mesmerizing beauty, exceptional durability, and affordability of Moissanite make it an ideal stone for any occasion. Find moissanite engagement rings today.

[localbizreview]

Columbia SC Top Real Estate Agent Discover the vibrant and ever-expanding city of Columbia, SC, where a colorful real estate landscape awaits your exploration. Take the reins of your property dreams, be it acquiring that cozy first house, leveling up to a more expansive haven or parting with your existing abode, and unlock success with the perfect realtor as your trusted companion. A Columbia SC top real estate agent can provide invaluable guidance, market knowledge, and negotiation skills to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. In this blog post, we'll share how to choose a realtor in Columbia SC for your real estate needs. 

Here are 10 Tips for Choosing a realtor in Columbia SC for your real estate needs.

1. Look for experience: When it comes to real estate, experience matters. Seek out a realtor with an impressive history of triumphs within the captivating Columbia, SC market scene. 2. Check credentials: Make sure your realtor is licensed and in good standing with the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. 3. Read reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials from previous clients to get a sense of the realtor's customer service and performance. 4. Consider their specialties: Some realtors specialize in certain types of properties or neighborhoods. Make sure your realtor has experience in the type of property you're looking to buy or sell. 5. Look for local knowledge: A realtor who is familiar with the Columbia, SC area can offer valuable insights into local market trends, schools, and community amenities. 6. Ask for referrals: Ask friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations of realtors they've worked with and had positive experiences. 7. Meet in person: Schedule a consultation with potential realtors to get a sense of their communication style and whether they seem like a good fit for your personality and needs. 8. Ask about marketing strategies: If you're selling your home, ask potential realtors about their marketing strategies to ensure your property is marketed effectively. 9. Discuss fees: Understand how your realtor will be compensated and what fees you'll be responsible for paying. 10. Trust your instincts: In the end, it's essential to collaborate with a realtor who instills a sense of ease and trust, empowering you to conquer your property aspirations.

Watch Video Here

In the quest for buying or selling a home within the vibrant milieu of Columbia, SC, the paramount step is securing a proficient realtor to guide your journey! A Columbia SC top real estate agent can help you navigate the local market, negotiate the best possible deal, and ensure a smooth and stress-free transaction. By following the tips on how to choose a realtor in Columbia SC, you'll be well on your way to finding a reputable and experienced realtor who can help you achieve your real estate goals. So don't hesitate to reach out to a Columbia SC top real estate agent today and start your journey towards finding your dream home or selling your current property.

[reviewinglocalbusinesses]

Columbia SC Top Real Estate Agent Discover the vibrant and ever-expanding city of Columbia, SC, where a colorful real estate landscape awaits your exploration. Take the reins of your property dreams, be it acquiring that cozy first house, leveling up to a more expansive haven or parting with your existing abode, and unlock success with the perfect realtor as your trusted companion. A Columbia SC top real estate agent can provide invaluable guidance, market knowledge, and negotiation skills to ensure a smooth and successful transaction. In this blog post, we'll share how to choose a realtor in Columbia SC for your real estate needs. 

Here are 10 Tips for Choosing a realtor in Columbia SC for your real estate needs.

1. Look for experience: When it comes to real estate, experience matters. Seek out a realtor with an impressive history of triumphs within the captivating Columbia, SC market scene. 2. Check credentials: Make sure your realtor is licensed and in good standing with the South Carolina Real Estate Commission. 3. Read reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials from previous clients to get a sense of the realtor's customer service and performance. 4. Consider their specialties: Some realtors specialize in certain types of properties or neighborhoods. Make sure your realtor has experience in the type of property you're looking to buy or sell. 5. Look for local knowledge: A realtor who is familiar with the Columbia, SC area can offer valuable insights into local market trends, schools, and community amenities. 6. Ask for referrals: Ask friends, family, and colleagues for recommendations of realtors they've worked with and had positive experiences. 7. Meet in person: Schedule a consultation with potential realtors to get a sense of their communication style and whether they seem like a good fit for your personality and needs. 8. Ask about marketing strategies: If you're selling your home, ask potential realtors about their marketing strategies to ensure your property is marketed effectively. 9. Discuss fees: Understand how your realtor will be compensated and what fees you'll be responsible for paying. 10. Trust your instincts: In the end, it's essential to collaborate with a realtor who instills a sense of ease and trust, empowering you to conquer your property aspirations.

Watch Video Here

In the quest for buying or selling a home within the vibrant milieu of Columbia, SC, the paramount step is securing a proficient realtor to guide your journey! A Columbia SC top real estate agent can help you navigate the local market, negotiate the best possible deal, and ensure a smooth and stress-free transaction. By following the tips on how to choose a realtor in Columbia SC, you'll be well on your way to finding a reputable and experienced realtor who can help you achieve your real estate goals. So don't hesitate to reach out to a Columbia SC top real estate agent today and start your journey towards finding your dream home or selling your current property.