#even within those countries it varies so much by area

[vhstown]

its crazy how it's accepted that there's so many different types of white people but when it comes to POC and especially brown / desi people we're all just seen as like... indian or something . and not even indian just a stereotype of what people think indians are

[lemuel-apologist]

im going to respond to this on my own blog (not naming names; not dragging the OP into this further, and so on) because this is something i've had a lot of private discussions about with mormons and exmormons alike.

i think, genuinely, that-- you're missing the point. the original poster is a queer mormon. queer mormons, like other marginalized populations within the church, have had to rectify their faith with that aspect of themselves; much in the same way that any woman who is aware of the church's faults and still participates ; and, often, the reason they stay is because they found some kernel of value there that meant they couldn't throw the whole of it away.

more than that, though, the church is broader than you think it is. there is such a vast spectrum of experiences within it that boiling the entirety of it down to the barest elements means that you miss the nuances of the lives that a large chunk of people within it lead. how many people in your local relief society have ever heard of the ordain women movement? and, of them, which women know what actually happened to kate kelly? who has heard of mormon feminism? who has read it? because the people i've met, who know of these large issues with the church and have chosen to stay, fall into these camps-- those of cultural need (a need for community in an area with a lack in other areas) and of having kept themselves aware and abreast and decided this is a flawed organization, but my faith is not in the organization; it is in certain principles i was taught. my faith is not in russell m. nelson; my faith is in some aspect of beauty i found in the world-- through the syncretism of science and faith i was taught in seminary, through the laugh of a child, through the stacking of chords, through something i found in the church; eternal families and ritual and doctrine. and so they stay, and participate, with every intention of fixing what is wrong, and eschewing the rest.

do you think them so inhumane that they can overlook the musketfire talk? do you think they don't hear the reload? the gun is aimed at them, too. the procedure-for-transgender-members is about them. do you think they don't grieve? yelling cult-cult-cult isn't a way to get them to leave, if that's your goal; it's not a way to grieve with them; it's not a way to add nuance to your discussion; frankly, it's cruel.

and you are well within your right to feel hurt and wounded. you are.

but the truth is, the breakdown of the church, from the top down, means that our experiences are varies. mine was more cult-like. my friends had pictures of jesus taped in their showers. i got blamed for getting my young women's leader's homeschooled son hooked on "godless punk music" even though he hated me too much to speak to me. that same woman wouldn't let us do anything unladylike; i was terrified of god watching me change; i cried myself to sleep while praying; and, honestly, other people had more gentle experiences. theirs were kinder. and that's due to the way that things break down at the units of areas, stakes, wards, and families.

the church has cult-like aspects when you break it down to its barest essentials. it does. but it's about how they're implemented within those units and across those divides. no single person's experience is going to be the same. i can joke about running my hands along the sisal walls because i like scratching my palms, but do you get what i mean when i say it was all overwhelming? not everybody does. things change from state to state, country to country-- and why wouldn't they?

[average-transdalorian]

Several post-canon dungeon meshi headcanons (spoilers below the cut)

The first effect noticed from the Demon’s death was that background mana levels rose to (on average) that of somewhere between floors 3 and 6 of the dungeon. Patterns in the fluctuation of background mana are eventually discovered, as are several low-mana and high-mana areas

Many magic researchers moved to the Golden Kingdom, hoping that being at the epicenter would make their research into the changes go faster than their colleagues abroad. Due to this, many magic colleges were established in the Golden Country, and it became known as one of the best places to send magic users to or hire magic users from outside of the Elves’ Western lands

Due to the higher mana concentration, monsters began to spawn at higher rates on the surface. Travel between villages/cities became more dangerous, and more guards and defensive technologies were required at population centers

Many dungeoneers turned to guarding cities/villages and traveling caravans (adopted as one of the main modes of travel due to safety in numbers) to make money using their skills from dungeoneering

Others made companies that would go on monster hunting expeditions and bring back monster corpses as a way of finding more and more varied resources

The Golden Kingdom had some of the best monster hunting legislation in place, as its (re)founders understood that even monsters shouldn’t be overhunted or allowed to overgraze

Toshiro ended up being assigned as his dad’s (or his dad’s lord’s? Idk how powerful his dad was exactly) ambassador to the Golden Kingdom

Falin, at some point, proposes a fund to allow those who can’t pay to do so themselves to travel the world much the way she did. It is initially deemed too costly for the young kingdom’s treasury, but is kept in mind for a few decades until it could be put into place

Someone realizes eventually that Karka/Kahka Broud should’ve had stories of an ancient kingdom that up and sank into the sea one day. The revealed censorship causes a mild political scandal

Leed does not marry Laios, but Zon is given a title and some land. Conflict between the Orcs and their neighbors are the most common political issue that Laios faces; while anti-Orc prejudice is lower in the Golden Kingdom (and actively lowering) than other countries, it is still prevalent, and requires requires the crown to step in on occasion

A memorial to Senshi’s old companions is erected at the old entrance to the dungeon, commemorating how without them, he couldn’t have been able to help Laios and his party defeat the demon. Senshi is added to the memorial after his death

A memorial to Thistle is erected in the palace’s courtyard, detailing his motivations and spiral as dungeon lord. Further memorials are erected with it to Laios, Mithrun, and Marcille after their respective deaths, each detailing their experiences with the Demon and as dungeon lord

The Half-Foot laborer’s guild helps ensure that every Half-Foot is able to get a good job. Inspired by this, several other guilds were established

Although he never gets a memorial (by his own request), several Union terms end up being derived from Chilchuck’s name

Izutsumi invents a few different sports between her own travels. She never has an official job, but certainly gets by well enough

The Golden Kingdom legalizes supervised research into several types of ancient magic. Making beastkin is legalized, although with HEAVY restrictions due to moral concerns

The Golden Kingdom sees a steady influx of immigrants during Laios’ lifespan as more and more people seek safety from monsters within the curse’s radius, which grows exponentially as he ages until it reaches the borders of the Golden Kingdom

Falin does age somewhat slower than Laios; she takes over the throne after his death until a suitable successor is found

While her rule does not last long, she is regarded as a very significant ruler, as her rule is when the Golden Kingdom first needs to really use their anti-monster defenses

The practice of making golems to aid in manual labor is legalized in the Golden Kingdom

The Golden Kingdom is one of the first places to start buying monster products, due to Laios’ and Senshi’s proclivities

[mychlapci]

seekers are really communal frame types. it's actually part of the reason why they trine together; they're like rats or pigeons. a single seeker left alone to their own devices will often slip into depression without companionship. it's actually a big idea i have for my fan continuity.

i've seen people saying that vosians are prideful assholes and while i think that's true to some extent, i also think that they're just generally very focused on their communities. within my fan continuity, certain areas of cybertron lended themselves better to certain frame types. the areas that eventually became the region of vos were pitted by steep mountains and deep canyons so only those who could fly were able to properly settle there.

due to this, vos is a very flight oriented region. most cities there are built high into the atmosphere and rarely accommodate other frame types which has led to the stereotype that all vosians are vain and only care about themselves which is very much not true!

vos, in my fan continuity, isn't a single city. it's a name given to describe a specific region of cybertron that has similar topography, and language families (similar to how we call the middle east, the middle east even though there's a ton of different countries and cultures there)

vosians are generally some of the most outwardly friendly cybertronians due to the wingspeak that the region developed as their main form of communication. this language is allows for far more nuance but it's not something taught across cybertron so when vosian's speak common, their tones often come across as intensely snooty because they tend to be very blunt with their words.

seekers in particular are distinguished from other flight frames by their specific wing forms and general likeness to each other in terms of kibble placement and other such looks, are very community based, often forming massive neighborhoods and colonies of up to 120 seekers.

these colonies function just by the sheer feeling of community that shows up between those who are part of it. members often share, sleeping, cooking, bathing, and living spaces and it's not uncommon for multiple different trines to form massive poly relationships with each other just because of close proximity

this is also my explanation behind why the only air force we see in the decepticons are seekers. because they're so communal, it only made sense for them all to join the cons. not doing so would mean that one left behind might become extremely isolated and depressed from lack of contact.

seeker colonies are highly complex and often feature a single trine as the main leaders (in this case it would be the elite trine) but it can often vary from colony to colony. smaller ones might only have one trine in charge, but the bigger ones might have up to five which create a council of sorts to make decisions regarding the community

going back to the city structures of vos. it varies highly on the area but generally cities that are built high in the mountains tend to build outward around the mountain and then upward. so you'd see a lot of scaffolding around the lowest layers, just general structural support dug directly into the rock, while the upper most layers are connected by a series of bridges and pathways.

cities that built into the canyons of the region tend to be a lot more spread out, with chunkier buildings that better accommodate cybertronians of other frames. however it is consistent that vosian cities are built at high altitudes, feature heavy use of spiraling skyscrapers, and generally focused on flight frames and their specific needs. so lots of perches to land on, runways to take off from, and open aired buildings to allow for better weather predictions since some cities might be so high up that the upper layers stretch above the cloudline.

i have thoughts about the winglord thing in fandom. i think it's really interesting but i don't think it's a seeker specific thing.

so in terms of the winglord for this version of cybertron, i think it's a ceremonial term used to describe the winner of a ritual that determines who will lead the vosian region for the coming millennium regarding religious leadership. it's kinda like if the pope position got chosen by a fistfight. so like the winglord doesn't have any actual political power, but they do have a lot of religious influence

starscream in my continuity never actually becomes the winglord because of that reason. he's not particularly religious and because he specifically wants to join politics to get vos more focused on unifying with other cybertronian regions, he never participates in the winglord fights. however, sunstorm does

skywarp is a cartographer and his teleporting abilities allow him to get into unmapped spaces without too much trouble. which is very useful since vos' topography does not lend itself well to scanning devices because of the unpredictability of the weather. the area is prone to sudden and very random tornadoes because of it's mountainous landscape and it's actually part of the reason why vosian cities are designed the way they are. they're built most commonly in the areas that avoid the paths of the tornadoes

once again this ask is getting out of hand so i'm going to cap it off on that

aaaaaa i can't believe it took me so long to get to this ask, this is literally the coolest thing ever. Though i might be biased because I have... well, not exactly a continuity, more like... it's flashes and, uh, images, in my head, barely headcanons, and they're not always nearly as pregnancy-based as i led everyone to believe. And in these barely-headcanons, i am a sucker for, first of all, the cybertronian "cities" being more akin to areas or states with more cities within, and second of all your idea of seeker communal society kind of reminds me of the way that the roman kingdom operated, and i looove to get inspired by rome for my cybertronian worldbuilding. mostly because rome was very fucked up and cybertron needs to be as well.

and yeah, the winglord thing, i do feel like it's possible that every city/state on cybertron would have a high ranking official that is technically "in charge" and vosnians simply call it a winglord, but it's not exclusive to them. sorry just the political arrangement of cybertron is so interesting to me, no.1 favourite thing to think about. it probably depends on the "area" but the official can be only religious in nature or fully tyrannical or anywhere in between. again, sorry, i have to stop thinking about this.

in love with your mind, i love communal fliers. i know people can get weird about seekers and trines but i love it when it's simply a cultural difference.

[beguines]

Just as economic cycles have their leading and trailing indicators, cycles of trade union growth, militancy, and political radicalism have had their vanguard groups of workers. During the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, in virtually every geographic location, in every part of the world, in almost any time period, coal miners (where they existed in significant numbers) were in the lead when it came to labor struggles. Coal miners played this role so often, so many different times, in so many different types of societies that statements about their vanguard status are relatively uncontroversial. However, why and even how they played such a role is hardly ever examined systematically.

One of the early studies—​considered by many the seminal study—​by Kerr and Siegel examines a large amount of data from thirteen developed countries. Kerr and Siegel argue that miners, along with longshoremen, sailors, and loggers (and "to a much lesser extent" textile workers), formed "isolated masses," a "race apart," living in isolated communities, with common grievances and values. Their supposedly one-​dimensional communities allegedly created sharp class polarizations, without the other occupational and class groupings that might mitigate class antagonisms. Further, the employees all do the same type of work and have the same work experiences, thus forming "a largely homogeneous, undifferentiated mass". While correctly identifying the high strike rates of miners, their explanation is far from compelling. As a general thesis, Shorter and Tilly find their argument lacking, noting that in France, at least, it is the multi-​industry cosmopolitan cities, not the smaller, single-​industry ones, that have the highest strike rates. Gary Marks extends the critique by arguing that Kerr and Siegel's description of the coal industry and coal mining communities is inaccurate. He notes that industrial growth (in England, Germany, and the United States—​the three largest nineteenth-​ and early-​twentieth-​century coal producers) led to a rapid expansion of coal mining. Rather than leading to stable, isolated mining communities, the demand for labor led to a rapid influx of newcomers and a high level of transience of experienced miners. In those few isolated areas, miners were, if anything, more provincial than in the more open locales.

However, several studies have also shown that the strike militancy of miners varies considerably by country and even by mining districts within the same country. Numerous investigators have shown that coal miners in the United States and Great Britain, for example, have had significantly higher strike rates than miners in Western Europe, especially France and Germany, the largest Continental coal-​producing countries.

Lipset, in a nuanced study of political proclivities of groups of workers, finds miners among those most predisposed to left-​wing political support and activity, although, like Shorter and Tilly, he also lists larger cities, larger plants, and more "economically advanced regions" as similarly inclined. In contrast to the variations in strike militancy, investigators have found coal miners consistently more likely to be left-​wing in virtually all countries.

Investigators mention a number of hypotheses that might have led to increased militancy and radicalism on the part of miners. First, the sheer size of the coal industry and the large number of miners may have been a factor. Second, the centrality of coal to the national economy gave coal miners decisive economic leverage in major battles. Third, miners' solidarity and sense of common grievances did not develop from the isolated community or lack of occupational hierarchy. Rather, it was due to the unique working conditions underground, "dark as a dungeon," the miners often on their hands and knees, deep in the bowels of the earth. Coal had seeped into the pores of all who came up at the end of a shift, whatever their occupation, age, or color. Fourth, coal mining had high accident and death rates, with the threat of being buried alive always present. When cave-ins and explosions did occur, it was not isolation that created broad solidarity, but the community-​wide mobilizations and vigils that still accompany rescue efforts. Fifth, given the high percentage of the cost of coal that went to labor and the intense competition between the many producers, opposition to workers organizing for more pay and for better working conditions was inevitably intense.

Michael Goldfield, The Southern Key: Class, Race, and Radicalism in the 1930s and 1940s

[monstersdownthepath]

Demigod Dossier: Oni Daimyo, part 1

(Pictured: Inma, Empress of the World, the greatest of the Daimyo)

Lawful, Neutral, and Chaotic Evil Incarnations of Debauchery and Depravity The Complete Book of the Damned, pg. 126~127

The Oni are an interesting bunch, to me. Each Oni begins its existence as a Kami, a spirit of the land directly created by the gods to preserve the world, as well as the relationship between nature and those with the power to change it (i.e. mankind). Any kami that fails to uphold the Laws of Golden Perfection, an esoteric series of laws no mortal being could hope to understand, becomes an outcast and is relieved of their duties once their replacement is crafted. Many kami simply fade into nonexistence, while some devolve into mindless nature spirits... but the majority of these disgraced stewards instead evolve into Oni, malicious spirit creatures that can form a physical body once they enter an area of mass death and tragedy.

Upon incarnating, all oni get to experience sensations for the first time. According to oni, their pathetic kami forms don’t feel, see, smell, or taste like their new flesh body does; everything is so much brighter, louder, tastier, more impactful once they have a physical form. So, naturally, oni completely devolve into pleasure-seeking hedonists hellbent on maximizing their exposure to every form of sensation they can get ahold of with the power they possess. Like the Rakshasa that some of them share an alignment with, the oni are intentionally a ‘less severe’ class of fiend a DM can sprinkle into their sessions with lower stakes; oni aren’t conquering worlds or destroying countries. Each one seeks their own satisfaction above anything else, so their villainous actions can be... varied. One may kidnap musicians because they wish to hear a song they wrote played by a professional, one may steal maidens of a specific holy order because their blood tastes the best, and one may level a city block because the buildings were blocking the sunlight shining through their favorite stained glass window. Destructive and scary, but not world-shaking.

The Oni Daimyo we’ll be looking at today are the end result of a very specific process that oni can go through: Oni view mortals as taking the wonders of the world for granted and enjoy punishing those who don’t go out of their way to enjoy what they can have and destroy what they cannot (i.e. anyone who isn’t an evil hedonist). They believe that the greatest pleasures only become so when they’re taken from another... and thus a Daimyo emerges from the horde when it realizes that “another” includes other oni. Browbeating their lesser kin into obedience, all Oni Daimyo acquire the power of a demigod by brute force, tyrannizing lesser oni into providing the ascending fiend with excess and experience until it ignites a divine spark within them. The three we’ll be looking at today are the ones that caught my eye among their small number...

Oni Daimyo work freely and happily with mortals, seeing them as toys, tools, or perhaps even partners and consorts. Whatever role they serve in a Daimyo’s court, those who devote themselves fully to the Daimyo’s ideals can access a cache of divine magic they can exploit. Worshipers receive Boons that are are relatively simple: a trio of spell-like abilities, each of which may be used 2/day. Boons are normally gained slowly, at levels 12, 16, and 20, however entering the Evangelist, Exalted, or Sentinel Prestige Classes can see the Boons gained as early as levels 10, 13, and 16.

Oni Daimyo come across the entire spectrum of Evil alignments, but they’re not demons, devils, or daemons, and thus the Demoniac, Diabolist, and Souldrinker classes are barred to them without DM fiat.

Inma, the Empress of the World Lawful Evil Daimyo of Lavish Wealth, Origami, and Servitude Domains: Community, Evil, Law, Nobility Subdomains: Family, Home, Leadership, Tyranny

Obedience: Craft delicate origami representing those you seek to rule over. Benefit: Gain a +4 profane bonus on saving throws against mind-affecting effects.

Aw, how nice :) Inma is the most powerful of the Daimyo, so it’s ironic to me that she has one of the most peaceful Obedience rituals. Quite a few of the Daimyo, in fact, have rituals that can easily be hidden or passed off as a form of meditation, making it easy to hide your faith in the hedonistic fiends even under close observation. Who in their right mind is going to wonder if you’re evil for folding paper? I do appreciate that Inma doesn’t make you dramatically crush or burn or otherwise dispose of the folded figures, because it means you can unfold the origami and re-use the same sheets for your next Obedience. It’s a small thing, but I like when recycling your ritual materials is an option.

Unlike many Obedience rituals that can be quashed by being robbed or imprisoned, you can perform origami with just about any flat, flexible material of the appropriate size. In a pinch, you can tear cloth into strips and fold them as well. Again, it’s small, but I appreciate the flexibility and ritual resilience.

And the benefit? Incredible. Blanket +4 to saves against the biggest class of Save-or-Suck spells and effects in existence, making you that much harder to charm, Dominate, mislead, distress, and emotionally manipulate. A +4 to saves against ALL mind-affecting effects rather than a subset like compulsions is incredibly rare and should be appreciated for how many times it’ll probably save your life (and your party’s life) over the course of your adventuring career!

Boon 1: Create Treasure Map Boon 2: Charm Monster Boon 3: Extended Dominate Person

Create Treasure Map is a somewhat niche spell, but one I’m happy to have as a spell-like (especially since it ignores the 100gp component cost) rather than needing to use a precious spell slot or waste spells known to have available. It’s a little gruesome, requiring a portion of a slain creature to use--typically a stretch of skin or piece of its hide--but it creates a map between where you’re standing and up to 3 (+1 per 3 levels) caches of whatever that creature considers valuable, along with whatever features and dangers the creature remembers being on the way there. Don’t bother using this on animals and unintelligent beasts as all you’ll get is food stores or perhaps its nest (which, hey, if that’s your objective...), but on various bandits and baddies, you’ll be pointed right to their treasure caches (alongside whatever else they saw as worth remembering). The map even works on any scale, so whether the target’s treasure is 30 feet or 300 miles away, you’ll get your quest objective... just know that the wider a net you cast, the less reliable the map becomes. It notes hazards the creature remembers, but some may be too small to actually show up if the map covers enough territory.

The next two can be lumped together fairly easily, as both are excellent tools at 1/day, let alone the 2/day that your Daimyo grants! Charm Monster is an off-switch for a potentially painful encounter, making a temporary friend out of any monster you may meet on your journeys, which has as many applications as you can possibly imagine. With a duration of a day per level, you can more or less keep a creature (or even several creatures) permanently on your side, perhaps even long enough to convert them into a friend WITHOUT magic, as morally questionable as such a thing may be (but you are Evil, so...). Dominate Person isn’t as flexible when handling encounters as Charm Monster, as it only works on Humanoids and Monstrous Humanoids, but there’s a lot of Humanoids in the world, and two free castings of “gain an ally that will fight for you” that lasts for weeks on end and have no components so even people carefully watching you won’t know you’ve just turned their guards against them. Having the spell be Extended feels like overkill considering it also lasts for a day per level, but if you need to send your new thrall on an extended errand, it can be useful to have them in your pocket for four weeks instead of two. Between these two spells, castable twice each, you can amass an entourage in a shockingly short time... in fact, to preserve the DMs sanity, you may want to limit the Domination to just two creatures at a time!

------

Gyuku, the Sea Devil Chaotic Evil Daimyo of Piracy, Tea, and Tsunamis Domains: Chaos, Evil, Strength, Water Subdomains: Entropy, Fear, Ferocity, Oceans

Obedience: Perform a tea ceremony on the shore of an ocean or while blindfolded. Benefit: Gain a +4 profane bonus on saving throws against water-based effects.

Another cute one! Despite Gyuku being one of the most violent of the Daimyo, her daily ritual is a meditation and centering ritual. There’s something ironic about a Chaotic Evil hedonist demanding her followers calmly make tea every day, but I suppose when you’re an Oni, you get really serious about how your food is prepared. I appreciate that in contrast to other oceanic demigods, she DOESN’T lock you to the shorelines like the others do, allowing you to practice your tea ceremony blindfolded if you can’t, for whatever reason, access the sea. Regardless of the alignment of your allies, few will see anything off about you performing such a small ritual every day, allowing you to masquerade as Good, or at least hide your faith from investigators and guards...

It’s an Obedience with no listed cost, but you’re still not likely to perform it if your belongings get pilfered, but you don’t even need a particularly expensive set. Even just a cup of hot water and a single bag of tea will allow you to do something to please your Daimyo enough to get your power for the day... especially if granting you your power would let you wreak havoc on the people who stole from you in the first place.

The benefit is, in stark contrast to the first of the Daimyo, underwhelming. Water-based attacks and spells are few and far between, and most of them are more of an than an inconvenience than something you really need to worry about. In many cases, this just reads “+4 to saves versus being knocked prone,” but there’s nevertheless a decent few Adventure Paths (yes, Reign of Winter; many Cold spells also have the Water descriptor!) where this ability would come in handy... outside of those, though, this benefit is sub-par.

Boon 1: Slipstream Boon 2: Control Water Boon 3: Heroes’ Feast

Alright, cute. Slipstream isn’t an especially useful spell, sitting in the pile of “spells I would never prepare but find inoffensive to have for niche scenarios.” It lasts well over an hour when you first get it and goes up by 10 minutes/level from there, but all it functionally does is add +10ft to the target’s walking speed. Nothing special, but I’m sure the Heavy Armor Enjoyers in the party will appreciate being able to walk at normal human speed for a few hours a day, with the amusing option of getting an extra +10 on top of that if they so happen to be traveling downhill. The real usefulness of the spell is the +20ft to the target’s swim speed, letting them travel with decent swiftness underwater; if they don’t already have a swim speed, they gain one! Unfortunately they don’t get any ability to breathe underwater, but since even weedy little nerd Wizards can hold their breath for over a minute at a time (provided they didn’t dump Con (don’t do this)), it’s not much of an impediment if you just need to dive down and then back up. Think of it like a ‘swim underwater’ spell that has an added bonus once you’re no longer IN the water! That at least makes it less disappointing.

Unlike the next spell, which has a myriad uses. Control Water allows you to create whirlpools, stop floods, create floods, shape water pillars, and generally screw with the depth and shape of enormous patches of water for hours at a time, making you the bane of ships, which is perfect for a follower of a goddess of piracy! Whether it’s trapping victims to make them easy pickings, raising pillars behind you to block off enemies, flooding dockside towns, or slamming Water Elementals and the like with a nigh-permanent Slow, your crew will no doubt appreciate your control over water (though everyone else will likely be a little unenthused),  In other scenarios I’m afraid it’s not as useful, but I’m sure there’s plenty of moments when draining enormous amounts of water from a room or causing even more water to flood out of a specific receptacle would solve a puzzle that’s otherwise halting your party. I do appreciate that Control Water also specifies it can be used “on similar liquid,” though what is similar to water and thus what can be affected by the spell is left up to the DM to decide.

Control Water offers utility to a scurvy dog and the mangy crew, but Heroes’ Feast offers to cure that scurvy and provide the most important resource a captain must be aware of: Morale and loyalty. There’s little that can keep a pirate crew happy like being allowed to eat a Heroes’ Feast every single day, once at breakfast and once again at dinner, and you’re able to whip up a meal for up to 16 people per casting when you first get this ability, which covers yourself, the ships’ officers, and some extra crewmates you’ve grown to like or who you believe deserve the honor. As one of my favorite spells I’ll sing the praises of the Feast every chance I get, and while it may be underwhelming in terms of spells that make you a better pirate, having it available twice a day will, if nothing else, assure sickness, poison, and starvation are no longer a concern on the seas, AND make you beloved by everyone who regularly partakes... and should they get too used to your food, to the point of relying on its availability and not stocking up on their own rations... well, it’d be awful unfortunate if your ‘allies’ didn’t pay for the privilege to continue feasting.

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Nataka, the Red King Neutral Evil Daimyo of Drought, Perfume, and Forest Fires Domains: Destruction, Evil, Fire, Weather Subdomains: Arson, Catastrophe, Seasons, Smoke

Obedience: Meditate within a ring of fire while periodically casting incense into the flames. Benefit: Gain a +4 profane bonus on saves against fire effects.

All three of the Daimyo that caught my attention have a similar theme to their Obedience ritual: It’s simple, easily disguised as a Neutral or Good act, and has no listed cost requirements. Even in this case, the ritual is easily waved off as a ritual to Sarenrae or any other number of benevolent sun gods. After all, like with Inma’s peaceful origami and Gyuku’s lovely tea party, who’s going to suspect you’re serving an evil spirit just because you want to smell nice? The only real problems I can envision are if you’re in an environment where creating a ring of fire is dangerous to the surrounds (in a dry, flammable area) or for you (such as in an enclosed space), though if you’re recklessly Evil you may not care about the former.

There’s not much more to say about it except that you’ll need to stock up with a lot of incense each time you’re in civilization (or learn to craft it yourself!), because you’ll quickly burn (badum-tiss) through your supply even if you’re being conservative with it. The +4 to saves versus fire effects is a very common benefit for Obedience rituals, but it’s always welcome because fire effects themselves are common at every level. From dodging Fireball to ducking beneath a dragon’s breath weapon, it’s boring but it’s likely to be useful for your entire adventuring career.

Boon 1: Flame Blade Boon 2: Extended Cup of Dust Boon 3: Maximized Fireball

Flame Blade isn’t a spell we’ve seen as a Boon before, so here’s the rundown: For 1 min/level, you conjure a scimitar of fire that you can attack with like a normal weapon. It deals 1d8 Fire damage, +1 per 2 HD you have (max +10). Importantly, it resolves as a melee touch attack and, since the Sentinel is an option to gaining the Boons early, it’s your absolute best bet for following Nataka for two reasons: 1) maximum BAB, allowing for iterative attacks with your flaming weapon, and 2) Scimitars are your Daimyo’s sacred weapon, allowing the Sentinel’s Symbolic Weapon ability (+1 to attack and damage rolls per 3 Sentinel levels) to work with the spell! Even if you don’t go into Sentinel, it also benefits from the Warpriest’s Sacred Weapon ability... though it won’t surpass the spell’s base damage until level 10, so that’s more of a later-game thing. Though the list of creatures with Fire Resistance or immunity is long, the creatures without either is just as lengthy, as is the list of creatures who take extra damage or debuffs from Fire. The duration of 1 min/level means it may even last multiple combats, giving you 2 or 3 (or more!) fights where you’re hitting a target’s touch AC, though be warned that the blade is made of pure fire and its damage is thus unaffected by your ability score modifiers. It’s a small but important tradeoff if you rely on high modifiers for their base damage.

Compared to Flame Blade, Extended Cup of Dust feels a little silly. The spell already lasts an eternity, so doubling its duration feels unneeded, as does being able to use it twice a day. If you want someone dead, just hit them four times a round with your sword. This is for making someone suffer, and suffer for a long time. I can see casting it on a fleeing adversary to make their life in the coming days as miserable as possible, but otherwise its only real use is tormenting NPCs or extorting creatures with low saves. Using it on a creature whose power is fueled by their ability to drink something is especially hysterical, but such opportunities will be few and far between. 

Which brings us to... Maximized Fireball. There’s not much to say here that hasn’t already been said about the spell that’s a permanent part of the spell list of every Sorcerer and Wizard from level 5 onward. All Maximized does is assure you’re always getting 60 Fire damage in a 20ft radius explosion. 60 flat damage (30 if the enemy succeeds their save). twice a day. There’s better Boons out there, but against anything not immune to Fire, especially clusters of enemies, you’ll be hard pressed to find them.

[tanadrin]

The total land area of all US states is around 9.14 million square km; the US has 3134 counties or county-equivalents, and in most of the country these are a pretty consistent size. there are a few weird states: Alaska has very big boroughs because of its low population, and much of the state is not organized into any borough. Virginia has a lot of independent cities (38 out of 41 in the entire country; most other states just consolidate city and county governments if a city gets very big).

Among all states east of the Mississippi, excluding Virginia, counties are about 1,423 km square (1369 if you include Virginia and count its independent cities as counties). If you include the states just across the Mississippi River, which mostly have counties about the same size as the states just to their east (here I am including Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, Iowa, Kansas, the Dakotas, etc.; but nothing further west than the Texas/North Dakota axis), average county size rises only to 1,762 km square. Just within those states of the "nearer west," county size is about 2,220 km square, which is bigger, but not crazy bigger.

Further west, especially in states like Nevada, Utah, and California, counties get very big. Among all states west of the Texas/North Dakota line, counties average around 10,300 square km. But among all states, average county or county-equivalent size is 2,921 km square.

"County" as administrative division descends of course from English counties, which were originally feudal divisions. So how big are U.S. counties compared to their European predecessors? About the same size! England has a land area of ~130,000 km square and 48 ceremonial/historical counties (it has many more local government areas in the modern era). English counties are 2,700 km square on average, about the size of U.S. counties--in fact, maybe a little bigger than most U.S. counties. Ireland has an area of 84,421 km square (not sure what percentage of this is land) and 32 counties, for an average county size of 2,638 km square.

The U.S. state with the fewest counties is Delaware, which has just 3 (1,682 km sq each). The U.S. state with the most is Texas, with 254 counties (2664 km sq each--just a little bit bigger than Ireland!). The state with the biggest counties (again, excluding Alaska, because the unorganized borough messes things up) is Arizona, whose counties are on average 19,614 km square--just seven Arizona-sized counties would cover all of England. The state with the smallest counties is Rhode Island, whose counties average 536 km sq--at 3,144 km square in total, Rhode Island itself is smaller than the average county in fourteen states.

In terms of population, of course, the size of US counties probably varies even more wildly than their land area, but on average they compare reasonably to the local administrative divisions of other countries (some of which are third-level and some of which are second-level, depending on their size). U.S. counties have a population of about 108,000 on average. In the Republic of Ireland (so, not including the six counties of the North), counties have an average population of about 192,000. In Germany, local government areas (Kreise) have an average population of about 207,000 (though the three city-states of Berlin, Hamburg, and Bremen complicate this picture somewhat). The actual on-the-ground local government scheme in England is complex, and it is not clear to me what the modern U.S. county or German Kreise equivalent would be.

[afvenvs3000f24]

Unit 3 Blog Post: Privilege and its Role Within Nature Interpretation

Privilege, in terms of my working definition of it, is an advantage or immunity that can be exclusive to groups or individuals depending on the degree of it. Sometimes, privilege isn't simply assigned to individuals or groups due to physicality; it can also pertain to the state of mind and even decisions (regardless of whether made before or after your birth). Privilege can be pictured as an umbrella given to everyone at birth, but the type of umbrella and its quality depends on physical and mental factors such as your race, health/body functions and mental health. Additionally, the condition of everyone's umbrella depends on your parents and the decisions they made until you were born. Eventually, it will also depend on your own choices in life. An umbrella works well for this hypothetical example because, like privilege, an umbrella is a tool in life that can help and protect you. In this case, it can protect people from getting wet and possibly sick or even help avoid skin damage from the sun on warmer days. Another great use of one's umbrella is to share it and help those who unfortunately were not handed the same cards in life.

Focusing more on nature interpretation, before beginning this course, if you had asked me if I thought privilege played a role in nature interpretation, I wouldn't have given it too much thought and said no. But after reading the blogs and textbook chapters from the past weeks, as well as the unit lessons we've done so far, I've had a more open mind in seeing all the different perspectives of nature interpretation and how each person experiences it. After analyzing my past experiences with nature, recalling my visits to other countries and cities, plus thinking about my education and the extensive knowledge I've gained, all confirmed for me that privilege does play a great role in nature interpretation. As I was reflecting on many blogs from the first unit, many people (including me) mentioned that their families or parents were the ones who offered them a sense of place within nature. Having a close, healthy relationship with those they love and being able to take time off of work and afford to go on many nature trips to share their love for nature through knowledge and guidance is a privilege.

An image I took while on my vacation in Panama, on our way to a boat tour.

Additionally, while I was in Panama this summer visiting family, one of the first things I noticed while travelling around in different neighbourhoods with varying socioeconomic backgrounds, was the difference between available, well-kept green areas. In Costa Del Este (a neighbourhood in Panama City) where my uncle and cousins live, there are large green areas, each having a different specific use for soccer, football, track, biking, hiking, and large parks with beautiful fountains; most of it felt familiar and reminded me of home and the trails I had been on before to some extent. However, this was not the case when we drove by poorer neighbourhoods; many more small houses were occupying the area, and I saw little to no green areas or parks. Even when visiting the local markets in these neighbourhoods, I noticed a lot of litter and thrown garbage down the road in the trees and flowing down rivers; my dad had even spotted a floating fridge getting carried away by the current. This particular visit stuck with me and made me question the injustice of it all leading me to do some research on Panama's state of poverty and education in which I found out that its education is ranked 83 of 144 of the world's worst (Reilly, 2017). Even though there isn't a specific correct way to interpret nature, I strongly believe that it is a privilege in our society to receive enough education and guidance (regardless of whether from an institution or a reputable person) to be able to interpret nature from an outlook of respect and admiration; rather than not thinking twice about how one's trash affects the world.

Once arriving back in Canada, I really took in how privileged I am to live in an area and country with so much greenery and public spaces to be with nature. It also made me realize what a luxury it is to have free time to spend in nature and learn from it rather than having to use that time to work to provide for your family and yourself.

Source:

Reilly, J. (2020, July 17). Rich country, poor people: Life on the rural Panamanian coast - ICWA. Institute of Current World Affairs. https://www.icwa.org/rich-country-poor-people-panama/

[lindsaystravelblogs5]

Out of England, into Wales

Days 41-43    Sunday-Tuesday, 13-15 October

Sunday

A somewhat challenging day.  It started well with bacon and eggs, and we packed up and left for the Kingsbridge Caravan Park on Anglesea Island.  We visited Tesco again and got a small discount by asking the shopper ahead of us to use her ClubCard to get some bonus points and we got a very small discount.  

Then we wound our way through some narrow lanes and progressively better roads, until we hit the M6 Motorway.  For me, driving on the motorway was a bit easier but the traffic was still a bit scary at times.  The speed limit varied quite often but a lot of it seemed to be unlimited.   (The limits can change within five or ten metres, and I saw a single post approaching one village with the limit posted as 20, 30 and 60 mph – all on the same pole - and 40 painted on the road to round out the options.)  In those areas, I stuck to around 60mph but most of the traffic was way faster.  I did pass two trucks and a car (plus another truck and two cars, but I don’t count them because they were slowing for an exit ramp).   I got up to nearly 70mph to pass one truck, but the rest of the traffic was simply streaming past me, most doing at least 90mph and often quite a bit more.  There are quite literally thousands of signs warning of speed cameras, but I only saw four or five during the whole trip, and drivers obviously have absolutely no fear of being caught.  I kept comparing Australian speed limits with those here and 70mph (113kph) seems to be the highest posted limit but there are long stretches where there appears to be no limit, and most drivers take full advantage of that. There are also long stretches posted as 'variable speed limits' but I only saw one place where you could find out what the limits actually were. It is certainly not a country for sightseeing.  There is nowhere to stop, and the lesser roads are so narrow that I dare not stop even if I could, because there is always a long line of impatient drivers behind me.  I can be driving with the side mirrors brushing the hedge on both sides and I still have cars riding our bumper trying to get past.   It is certainly frustrating, and we don’t feel we are getting value from our travel investment here.  

We tried to visit Wigan for sentimental reasons.  My parents grew up in Wagin in Western Australia and as strange as it may seem, there was another family of Doigs living across the road from Dad’s house. They had migrated from Wigan in the UK to Wagin.  My late aunt claimed to have traced our lineage back four hundred years without finding any common ancestors.  I thought we should detour to Wigan on the basis of that, but both the roads in to the town were choked with 5kph stop-start traffic so after a few kilometres, we gave up and got back onto the Motorway.  We eventually turned off into a village to find a place to stop for lunch, but we drove quite a few more kilometres before we found a hikers’ parking area and ate it there.

We got back onto the Motorway and drove most of the way to our caravan park.   We had a few trial and errors trying to get here, because navigation is extremely difficult.  Heather was using multiple apps and maps, as well as the GPS, and they were all very slow to respond, or at cross purposes.  Every time we approached a roundabout, the app or map indicated one route and, as soon as we were committed to that, it changed its mind, and told us to do a U-turn.   Anyone want to find a place to do a U-turn in England?   At least ten kilometres minimum to find anywhere to turn around and fight the traffic all the way back.  Heather did a brilliant job, but the tools are very poor, and road conditions much worse.  We did manage to navigate three tunnels en route to here.  They were no trouble at all, shorter than any in the Faroes, much better lit, with lanes about twice as wide and with two lanes in each direction.

We had to cross the Severn River Bridge that almost touches the sky - not a happy experience for a driver nervous of heights - but then we were out of England and into Wales where things improved a bit.

We eventually arrived at our caravan park after 203 miles of hard driving.  It is not the best park we have patronised, but it was a huge relief to get here, and we will try to explore the immediate vicinity tomorrow.

Day 42      Monday    14 October

It was a layday with us just staying in the park all day.   I wandered around a couple of times looking for birds but found very few.  I did spy some of the local wildlife though - a rabbit sunning itself on the grass.  

The park is enormous, boasting three separate camping fields, but apart from about fifty stored vans and one other campervan, I saw nothing but hundreds of what they call caravans here.  They are effectively static onsite vans, almost all set up as permanent homes with established gardens, sheds, garages, even fences - and not one of them was ever built with an undercarriage or wheels.  There is obviously quite a big business building these houses because there are many thousands of permanent examples in all the ‘caravan parks’ we have seen.  Many have no parking of any sort other than these cabins.  I have seen fairly basic ones advertised at around 40,000 GBP ($75,000+ Aussie dollars) with annual pitch site fees advertised at over 4000 pounds.  But in the summer, they are filled with 68 million British patrons all looking for a relaxing holiday.  A really good reason to cut one’s throat!

It was a beautiful sunny day, so we did a bit of washing and it was almost dry by the end of the day, but apart from that, we have been in the van since breakfast.   Heather sent some emails and it looks as if she will get a refund for the eSIM that never worked, and we fired off an email to the people we hired the camper from, listing some of the more important problems we are experiencing.

We spent hours online during the afternoon trying to find a caravan park for tomorrow night.  We eventually found one, but have no idea what it might be like - they vary from quite good to exceedingly crappy.  We will never return to the UK under any conditions.  It seems they have set themselves up to make it virtually impossible for tourists who want anything better than a bus ride to the local shops.  It is simply too hard to do even the simplest thing, and it doesn’t deliver anything it promises.  It seems that England is blatantly anti-tourist.  I have already decided that this phase of our trip is our worst ever and I have no wish to attempt anything like it again.

Heather has been quite sick today with vomiting and diarrhoea and she has spent quite a few hours in bed.  She sat up for a while around dinner time and said she was feeling a bit better, but didn’t eat anything.  I hope she is MUCH better tomorrow.

Day 43   Tuesday 15 October

All the parking near any attractions, whether natural, or privately gouging ones, comes at a cost - you pay for everything - but even they prevent access to big vehicles, and our little six-metre van is obviously classified as a big vehicle.  (This also warrants a surcharge on parking fees.)  The entrance to most of these parking areas is via a single lane over which is a steel gantry - 2 or 2.1 metres high.   Our vehicle is 2.7 metres high so there is no way we can get into any of these places.  It may be that they just want to ration space, so they ban larger vehicles, but I suspect it is to prevent campers accessing a place to park overnight.  OK, OK, I am a cynic, but I am pretty sure that would have been a major factor given the cost of building such structures.  (We were told later that this is a fairly common practice to prevent Travellers - Gypsies - getting in, setting up camp, and creating havoc with rubbish, threatening behaviour, and so on.)

But overall, it was a better day today.  Heather woke up feeling quite a bit better although she is still off her food.  Her meds obviously help but she is still feeling pretty fragile. 

We were away reasonably early and, armed with directions from the park manager, we went to buy fuel.  We drove a good deal further than she indicated, so asked another local who pointed it out to us a kilometre or so further on.  It was in a boatyard.  Diesel costs about 45% more here than in Melbourne so driving for fun could become expensive (as well as virtually impossible).   

We drove all around Anglesey Island, including a few detours.  We stuck mainly to more major roads and both driving and navigating was much easier today.   Wales proved much more tourist-friendly than England. We stopped for lunch at one of the few places we could get off the road, but as we headed south, the roads were less crowded and the scenery much more interesting.   We were on the Motorway for some of the day, but we chose a few backroads and secondary highways and enjoyed the day more than the others.  We were amazed to see that we drove 320 miles today - 515 kilometres - with relatively little angst. 

Our caravan park tonight and tomorrow is set above Abersoch in South Wales, and I think there may only be one other person here.  It is another huge place with scores of immobile mobile homes, many of which are located with what would otherwise be their drawbar against the walls or hedges, so it would be almost impossible to move them even if someone wanted to. 

[margadarsi]

 How to Create a Bulletproof 5-Year Investment Plan

Creating a secure, high-yield investment plan can seem daunting. However, with a structured approach, your goals can be achieved within five years. Here’s how to build a bulletproof 5-year investment strategy.

Define Your Financial Goals

Clearly defining financial goals is the first step. Think about what you wish to achieve. Do you want to fund a business, secure a down payment for a house, or save for your child’s education? Your objectives should be specific, realistic, and time-bound.

Assess Your Risk Tolerance

Understanding your risk tolerance is essential. Are you comfortable with high-risk options like stocks or crypto, or do you prefer stable returns from bonds or fixed deposits? Consider your age, income, and financial responsibilities. A diversified portfolio helps balance risk and returns, ensuring a smoother investment journey.

Calculate Your Investment Amount

Once your goals and risk tolerance are defined, calculate how much you need to invest regularly to reach your objectives. Use financial calculators or consult experts if needed. This calculation provides a roadmap and shows if adjustments are necessary.

Choose the Right Investment Options

Choosing suitable investment options is crucial. Here are some potential choices:

1. Mutual Funds

Mutual funds offer a mix of stocks and bonds, perfect for moderate to high-risk takers. They provide diversified exposure and can yield solid returns, especially if invested in equity-oriented funds over a long period.

2. Fixed Deposits (FDs)

Fixed Deposits are reliable and offer guaranteed returns. Ideal for low-risk investors, they also serve as a safeguard in a diversified portfolio. Interest rates vary, so shop around for the best options.

3. Stock Market

Stocks carry higher risk but can bring substantial returns if chosen wisely. For those with a higher risk tolerance, investing in growth stocks can accelerate portfolio growth over five years.

4. Real Estate

Real estate can be a profitable long-term investment if you’re ready for higher initial costs. Properties in growing areas can appreciate, providing an asset that grows along with the market.

5. Chit Funds

Chit funds are traditional saving schemes in some countries. If managed well, they can provide decent returns with manageable risk, though due diligence is essential.

Set Up an Emergency Fund

An emergency fund is a must for any financial plan. Setting aside three to six months of expenses in a liquid, low-risk instrument protects you from unexpected expenses. This fund keeps your investment goals on track, even in emergencies.

Monitor and Adjust Regularly

Investment plans aren’t “set and forget.” Periodically reviewing and adjusting your investments can make a substantial difference. Financial markets fluctuate, and personal circumstances change; updating your strategy accordingly can enhance returns.

Stay Disciplined

Discipline is key in investing. Stick to your plan, avoid impulsive decisions, and remember the power of compounding over time. Staying focused keeps you on track even when the market seems turbulent.

Consider Professional Advice

If managing your investments feels overwhelming, consider consulting a financial advisor. They offer insights tailored to your financial goals and risk appetite, ensuring you maximize returns while minimizing risk.

Final Thoughts: Building Wealth in Five Years

A well-structured five-year investment plan is achievable with commitment, knowledge, and periodic adjustments. By assessing goals, choosing investments wisely, and maintaining discipline, you can build a financial foundation that meets your objectives.

[davieeyecarecommunity]

Navigating Davie's Real Estate Market: What New Residents Need to Know

Davie, Florida, with its unique blend of suburban comfort and rural charm, has become an increasingly popular destination for homebuyers. If you're considering making this vibrant town your new home, here's what you need to know about Davie's real estate market.

Current Market Trends

Davie's real estate market has been steadily growing, with property values appreciating over the past few years. The town offers a diverse range of housing options, from single-family homes and townhouses to apartments and even properties with acreage for those seeking a more country lifestyle.

As of 2024, the median home price in Davie hovers around $450,000, though this can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood and property type. The market tends to be competitive, with homes often selling within weeks of listing.

Popular Neighborhoods

Shenandoah: Known for its larger lots and equestrian-friendly properties, Shenandoah is perfect for those seeking space and privacy.

Ivanhoe: This family-friendly neighborhood offers a mix of single-family homes and townhouses, with easy access to local schools and parks.

Davie Road: For those preferring a more urban feel, the area around Davie Road offers a variety of housing options close to shopping and dining.

Pine Island Ridge: This gated community features beautiful homes, many with lake views, and is known for its excellent amenities.

Western Davie: If you're looking for newer construction or planned communities, the western part of Davie has several options to explore.

Tips for Newcomers

Work with a local realtor: A realtor familiar with Davie can provide invaluable insights into different neighborhoods and help you find the best fit for your lifestyle and budget.

Consider your commute: While Davie offers a more relaxed pace of life, many residents commute to nearby cities like Fort Lauderdale or Miami. Factor in your daily travel when choosing a location.

Flood zones: As with much of Florida, some areas of Davie are in flood zones. Be sure to understand the flood risk and insurance requirements for any property you're considering.

HOA vs. non-HOA: Many neighborhoods in Davie have Homeowners Associations. Decide whether you prefer the amenities and regulations of an HOA community or the freedom of a non-HOA property.

Future development: Davie is growing, so research any planned developments in areas you're interested in. This could affect your property value and quality of life in the future.

Home inspection is crucial: Florida's climate can be tough on houses. Always get a thorough home inspection, paying special attention to the roof, foundation, and HVAC system.

Speaking of HVAC systems, one often overlooked aspect of moving to a new home in Davie is ensuring your air conditioning system is up to par. Florida's hot and humid climate means your AC will be working overtime for much of the year.

This is where Instant HVAC Inc comes in. As a local AC installation and repair company located right here in Davie at 5600 W Waterford Dr, we understand the unique cooling needs of homes in our area. Whether you're moving into a new construction that needs a state-of-the-art HVAC system installed, or you're purchasing an older home that might require AC upgrades or repairs, our team of experts can help ensure your new Davie home stays cool and comfortable year-round.

Remember, a well-functioning AC system not only keeps you comfortable but can also help prevent issues like mold growth, which is particularly important in Florida's humid climate. So as you navigate Davie's real estate market and settle into your new home, don't forget to give your HVAC system the attention it deserves. Welcome to Davie – we're glad to have you as part of our community!

Highlighted Members:

Business Name: Instant HVAC Inc - AC Installation & Repair

Address: 5600W Waterford Dr, Davie, FL 33331, United States                                             

Phone Number : (954) 858 5555

Website : https://instanthvacinc.com/

[themomsandthecity]

How Much Does Daycare Cost in 2024? The Stats Are Sobering

Going back to work after having a baby is not a cheap thing to do. The average cost of daycare in 2024 is higher than it's ever been, marking an expensive new chapter in the decades-long childcare crisis in the United States. "Parents are paying exorbitant fees," says Cathy Creighton, who studies childcare costs as the director of Cornell University's ILR Buffalo Co-Lab. For many families, daycare prices are higher than in-state tuition at a public four-year college. If you're getting ready to send your little one to daycare when parental leave is over, buckle up - here's an idea of the costs you might be looking at. --- Experts Featured in This Article Cathy Creighton is the director of the Cornell University ILR Buffalo Co-Lab. Sean Lacey is a digital strategist and the general manager of childcare at Care.com. --- The Average Cost of Daycare in 2024 According to a January 2024 report from childcare platform Care.com, which draws from the tuition info of daycares listed on the site, the average cost to have an infant in a licensed center-based daycare is $16,692 a year, or $321 a week. Home-based daycare for an infant costs, on average, $11,960, or $230 a week. For a toddler, the average center-based daycare is $15,236 a year ($293 a week), and a home-based daycare averages $11,388 ($219 a week). For parents of school-age kids, meanwhile, Care.com found the average cost to get an afternoon sitter for 15 hours a week is $15,184 per year, or $292 a week. Of course, costs can vary widely depending on where you live. For instance, the average infant daycare cost in Washington DC is $21,788, while in Arkansas, it's $6,708. Even within a state, there can be a huge difference between the fees in a major city and a rural or lower-income area. Why Daycare Costs Are Rising These numbers are all higher than they were last year, varying between .4 to 13 percent more. And Sean Lacey, general manager of childcare at Care.com, says that fees are only projected to grow further this year. That's partially due to inflation, but mostly because of what's been termed "the childcare cliff": the end of the $24 billion in pandemic-era federal funding that supported 220,000 childcare providers. The aid expired in September 2023, so we're only starting to see the effects, according to Creighton. "You know, there's a cut, and it'll take a little while for the body to bleed out," she says. "It's going to be quite grim." Without those government funds, daycare centers - which operate on very slim margins - have to either pass that cost along to parents or shut down. Progressive think tank The Century Foundation projects that 70,000 childcare centers will close, leaving more than three million children across the country without care. Meanwhile, many of the daycare centers that continue to remain open are having trouble staying fully staffed, per an analysis from the Center for the Study of Child Care Employment. Classrooms are empty, and waiting lists are growing. "There's just more demand than there is supply," Lacey says. The Effects of High Daycare Costs For all but the very wealthy and parents who qualify for a childcare subsidy, daycare is a major financial burden. The US Department of Health and Human Services considers childcare to be "affordable" when it costs no more than seven percent of a family's income. Yet according to Care.com's findings, parents are spending an average of 24 percent of their household income on childcare, and 23 percent of respondents anticipate spending more than $36,000 on it this year. And it's not just their salaries they're using to pay for tuition. More than a third of parents surveyed by Care.com reported dipping into their savings to cover the cost of childcare - and a staggering 68 percent of those families said they only have six months or less until their savings are depleted. At a certain point, parents are forced to take more drastic measures. Cornell's… https://www.popsugar.com/family/daycare-cost-49345724?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=tumblr

[buzzwaytaxi]

Buzzway Taxi Service in Dombivli: Trustworthy Source for Cab Rental Services

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[oidheadh-con-culainn]

#i feel like city english and country side english is really different #like i grew up seeing morris dances and going to local faires #the village stopped doing a its own fair in like the 80s though and only recently restarted and they stopped doing like the faire queen #stuff #although there is a picture of my grandma as it in like the 1940s #but there is still alot of folk stuff happening outside of cities is all im saying (@aphhera)

this is very true and i think probably overlaps with my half-formed musings about class and how that ties into it (in another recent post). even within cities it varies too. north london has folk (both english and irish e.g. camden has both efdss and the london irish centre), but some other parts of london have very little, for example. cambridge has folk, but oddly the majority of it in the city seems to be scottish, despite the strong english folk traditions in cambridgeshire (i am aware of the fenland morris traditions like gog magog molly etc) -- this may be a bias of the folk communities i've been part of, but i'm part of those because they were what was available/accessible to join, so... i believe newcastle has a fairly strong folk tradition, but i'm not sure on the balance of english vs other traditions (i know there's quite a big irish population there). but i think in all of these urban environments it's something that's available if you want it, but not like, universal -- it's not so much in schools, it's not a central pillar of the community, it's a tradition you have to choose to participate in and thus becomes niche

for me the only recollection i have of seeing morris dancers growing up (in suburban london) was when i played fiddle (and i think whistle?) for a children's choir at a summer festival and the act after us was a youth morris group (the Morris Minors, a joke i am just about old enough to get but probably nobody younger than me would lmao). and at the time the reaction from adults around me was very much "wow morris dancers still exist?? how weird, i thought they were long gone"

and we did country dancing at brownies, once, which others were unenthused about (little nerd me was excited about it) but never at school -- i'm always so surprised and a little jealous when people tell me they got to do it in PE. i went to one barn dance when somebody from my parents' church was celebrating a 60th birthday or something and held one in the church hall, but otherwise barn dances, ceilidhs, and equivalents did not feature. and a lot of that is being in the urban environment, and a solid chunk of it is also probably class

but of course when we're thinking about general populations, urban areas do represent a huge swathe of the population and for a tradition to be absent in those communities means it has been pushed to the margins and become a minority tradition

also the english are weird about folk culture. we are. we've relegated our folk dances and music to the zone of esoteric nerd shit that only weirdos do, and then we go looking for esoterica in the non-english parts of our heritage because we don't think we've got any of it of our own

[koiqiss]

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[argentinehunting]

Call of the Wild: Exploring Africa Hunting Safari Packages

The vast savannas and grasslands of Africa have beckoned adventurers and hunters for centuries. This wild, untamed landscape is home to some of the world's most iconic wildlife from the "Big Five" (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and Cape buffalo) to unique species like the long-spurred francolin and bongo. Africa hunting safari packages gives you a chance to encounter these animals up-close in their natural habitats. And for hunters, it offers the ultimate hunting experience pursuing dangerous game amid breathtaking scenery.

But planning an African hunting safari can be daunting for first-timers. From choosing the country and reserve to deciding on the type of hunt and securing permits, there are many factors to weigh. That's where experienced safari outfitters come in. They handle all logistics so you can focus on the thrill of the hunt. In this blog, we cover everything you need to know about booking a hunting safari in Africa. Read on to learn about popular hunting destinations, types of hunts, planning tips, top outfitters, and costs.

Types of Safari Hunting Packages

Outfitters offer several types of hunting safari Africa package. These cater to all budgets and interests from thrifty plains game hunts to "once in a lifetime" pursuits of iconic trophies.

Here are the main types of safari hunting packages:

Plains Game Hunts - Plains game refers to smaller African antelope species that inhabit savannas and grasslands. Common targets include kudu, impala, blesbok, springbok, wildebeest, zebra and many others. Plains game hunts offer great variety at a relatively affordable price point for first-timers.

Big Game Hunts - These safaris target Africa's iconic "Big Five" trophy species - elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and Cape buffalo. Hunting these dangerous game animals provides the ultimate thrill and hunting challenge. But big game hunt costs are also much higher, especially for elephants and lions.

Bow Hunting Safaris - All types of hunting safaris are also possible with bows for those interested in a greater challenge. Bow hunting is legal for plains game and big game (except elephants). It allows hunters to get even closer to their prey before taking a shot.

Most first-time African hunters start with an affordable 7-10 day plains game safari. But for seasoned hunters after dangerous big game trophies, 10-14+ day trips are best. You can also extend or combine Africa hunting safari packages as per your budget and needs.

Plan your best African safari hunts

An African hunting safari involves considerable pre-trip planning:

Pick Country & Reserve - Select your preferred hunting destination in Africa and reserve/concession area within it. Consider species sought, budget, travel time and political stability.

Choose Outfitter - Pick an experienced safari outfitter licensed in your selected country. Check credentials, reviews, services offered and costs. Ensure they have excellent professional hunters and trackers.

Trip Duration - Plan trip duration as per species you want to hunt and your budget. Plains game hunts can be as short as 7 days. But big game and unique trophies require longer 14+ day safaris.

Permits & Licenses - Acquire all necessary hunting permits, licenses and export paperwork with the help of your outfitter. Rules vary across African countries.

Immunizations - Visit your doctor and take recommended vaccinations for Africa like hepatitis, tetanus, yellow fever etc. Entry rules may require proof of certain shots.

Insurance - Get travel insurance covering emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation, lost baggage etc. Evacuation coverage is essential for remote hunting areas.

Gear List - Prepare a complete hunting gear and equipment list including weapons, ammo, optics, clothing, boots, travel documents and more. Your outfitter can provide a checklist.

Physical Fitness - Follow a fitness regimen before your trip. Hunting dangerous game can be physically demanding even with vehicle support.

With the logistics handled by your outfitter, you can look forward to the adventure ahead. Just focus on marksmanship practice and gear preparation.

How to Choose an Outfitter for Your Hunt

Choosing the right safari outfitter is crucial for a successful hunt. Here are tips for picking an ethical, professional hunting outfitter in Africa:

Check accreditation by hunting associations to ensure they follow fair chase policies and safety protocols.

Inquire about specific hunting areas they have concessions/leases for. The best territories harbor good populations of target species.

Ask about number of years in business, professional hunter experience, trackers employed etc. Look for expertise specific to your hunt.

Review past client testimonials and photo galleries to gauge delivery quality. Personal references from prior clients are best.

Compare services offered in packaged rates like field prep of trophies, taxidermy, dip & ship, daily laundry, liquor costs and more.

Ensure they have necessary permits and licenses to hunt species you seek. Also check on their protocol for trophy export and shipping.

Evaluate total costs across services. Look for transparency - some lower base rates may hide extra charges.

Assess level of personal service and communication responsiveness. This gives a feel for their professionalism.

It's advisable to contact 3-4 outfitters for quotes and details before you book a hunt.

Ready For Adventure?

Few adventures can get your heart racing like finding yourself face-to-face with Africa's wild icons like lions, elephants and Cape buffalo! Planning an African hunting safari is the first step towards making this dream a reality. Follow our tips to identify top destinations and outfitters for an epic trip pursuing your dream trophies. Just be sure to prepare thoroughly before embarking on a safari.

So when are you going on safari? Most outfitters book hunts 6-12 months in advance, so start planning today!