#featuring even more simcoe~!

[jtownraindancer]

Ace's TURИ for Burn Rewatch: Challenge

[knowltonsrangers]

Hi, I hope requests are still open, so how about an idea with Simcoe and modern!reader who watched the series and ends up there somehow?

avidly

turn!Simcoe x reader

[a/n: thanks for requesting! ❤️ ]

Sat numbly in the wooden chair, the ropes only sawed tighter into agitated skin the more you struggled. It was impossible to even see the damage done because if you dared to look over your shoulder, all you were met with was the damp darkness of the empty cabin.

You didn't even know the time, let alone who, if anyone- was inside the room with you. It all occurred faster than you could keep up with, first wading through flooded woods, disoriented to the events that led you here. It wasn't until you reached the foot of a hill that two men jumped out from their hiding spots, wielding weapons that only made your heart leap to your throat.

"They're awake?" A voice drawls just outside, and you can tell a hand is on the door, because the sliver of daylight that you had just shifted, as if someone was about to open it.

"Yes, sir." Someone replies, clearing their throat. "Last I checked, at least."

You screw your eyes shut, fiercely struggling against the ropes, praying that whoever entered through that door was nicer than the first two men.

"Good,"

The door rattles, and all at once it flies open, your gaze flitting to the newcomer. His silhouette fills most of the doorframe, heels clicking against the wood as one hand holds the door at bay. Once you are faced with blinding light, and unable to adjust, your eyes tear away, only finding comfort when the cabin is enveloped in darkness once more.

"I do hope my men were courteous to you."

His voice almost sounds cynical, and somehow you can feel his stare without seeing his eyes. Part of you screams to not reply, but the sarcasm bubbling in your mouth beats any sensibility you had accrued.

"I'm having a blast, thanks." Something akin to a glove being peeled off startles you, and it's all at once you realize that he is the one in control here. Immediately, a hand darts past your head and settles on the back of the chair, tilting you so far back, that the chair only rested on two legs.

"My, my, no need to be such a smart ass." He hums, and you squeak, feeling the sensation he is right in your face, and you have no idea how close he really is. Abruptly, you drop back to the floor, eliciting another scream from you, when a tarp is ripped off one of the windows, flooding the room with natural light.

Blinking rapidly, you shake the feeling of confusion from your brain, then take a chance to look up at the man who was presently holding you hostage.

Before you could even take a bated breath, a cold hand grabs your chin, yanking it up so you can stare directly into the eyes of your capturer.

"You have about three seconds to start explaining," He snarls, and your eyes bounce briefly to the flintlock cradled to his waist, his unoccupied hand resting heavily on the hammer.

You stutter, visibly shaken at what you were face-to-face with, eyes wide with surprise and doubt.

"John?" You're treading on dangerous waters, chin beginning to ache with just how much his grip tightens. Swallowing thickly when some recognition crosses his features, you press fowards.

"John Graves Simcoe?" It comes out embarrassingly slow, and it's not for dramatic effect. You were presently in disbelief, unable to process what was occurring right in front of your nose.

"Well," He starts, tilting your head this way and that.

"It never is a good thing when someone knows my name."

[lyledebeast]

British Representation in American Revolutionary War Media

John Adams

This might not be clear given how often I write about another text, but my favorite piece of American Revolution media, by far, is Tom Hooper's 2008 miniseries, John Adams. It's not a hagiography. It presents Adams as a flawed, complex man and, by extension, colonial Americans as flawed and complex people. If there is a villain in this series, it is not an individual but any mob that fails to contain its violent impulses. One of the most harrowing scenes depicts a Boston mob tarring and feathering a Loyalist merchant while Adams looks on horrified.

The series does present the revolution itself as just and necessary, and the crown's government of the colonies as unjust, no British or Loyalist characters are presented as "the enemy." The first Loyalist we meet shows up bloody at the Adams' door having been beaten by his Patriot neighbors for being a friend to the British soldiers on trial after the Boston massacre. Adams agrees to defend these men, but having won the case, he also defends Boston against his client's suggestion that it will no longer be safe for him to practice law there: "You have been acquitted by a jury of New England men." In spite of Adams' confidence, the trial scenes do not present a flattering portrait of New England Patriots. Not only are they baying for the blood of the defendants, many of whom are teenagers, but the men looming menacingly over the African man giving testimony as one of Adams' witnesses represent a chilling portrayal of the danger Black people faced even in the northern colonies.

The series' most outstanding portrayal of a British character is King George III, with whom Adams has an audience after becoming the United States' ambassador to Great Britain. Tom Hollander initially portrays the king as haughty and guarded, but as Adams makes his thoughtful, respectful addresses, his demeanor thaws a bit. He even makes a little comment about Adams being said to be "not the fondest of all his countrymen of the manners of France." They do love a French-hater in the court of King George. He remains emotionally restrained, but as he is the literal king of the Englishmans, this is hardly surprising. What is surprising is Adams' genuine good will towards the man who is the head of the government he so often railed against as a Congressional delegate. He is clearly not what King George expected, and his sentiments about the "culture, religion, and kindred blood" the Americans and British share are quite foreign to the other texts I'll be discussing.

Turn: Washington's Spies

The representation of British characters in Turn: Washington's Spies (2014-2017) is decidedly more uneven. Some are nuanced and sympathetic, like John Andre and Edmund Hewlett, while others are cartoonishly one-dimensional. King George, featured in both seasons three and four, is wholly defined by his erratic behavior. He has none of the humanity Tom Hollander's performance brings to the monarch in John Adams. Samuel Roukin's portrayal of John Graves Simcoe shares little in common with the historical figure on whom he is based besides his name and his Queen's Rangers uniform. And, bizarrely, his fate. All of things Simcoe accomplished that led to his being fondly remembered in Canada to this day are included in protagonist Abe Woodhull's long monologue in the final episode, but happen offscreen and after Simcoe's story ends for the purposes of the main plot. His accomplishments within the context of that story mainly consist of war crimes, many of which are carried out against other British soldiers, and most, if not all, of which are complete historical fabrications.

The character with whom Simcoe most often butts heads is Major Edmund Hewlett, a gentle, scholarly character who is himself a fabrication, not based on any singular, recognizable historical figure. The same may be said of Ensign Baker, the kindhearted British soldier quartered with the Woodhulls in season one. While these men do add nuance to Turn's representation of the British as a group, there is something a little back-handed about the most honorable British characters also being the most fictional ones. Turn's writers had no qualms about making a war criminal out of a historical figure when they needed one; why not do the same when they needed a sympathetic character?In contrast to Hewlett, another character based on a historical figure is also the chief enabler of Simcoe's atrocities. John Andre raised Simcoe to his position leading the Queen's Rangers precisely because of his brutal behavior, and he maintains that position until the end of series, drawing praise from officers like General Clinton and censure from others. Andre describes his a "necessary evil."

At the same time, Turn has a much clearer investment in presenting pro-independence colonials as "the good guys" than John Adams. Even the rare cases where such characters are presented in a negative light--Charles Lee, William Bradford, Benedict Arnold in the last two seasons--it is because they are traitors to "the cause" foremost, and their other unsavory qualities (like misogyny) are secondary. But while Turn's biases are clear in comparison to John Adams,' they pale into insignificance next to those evident in our final text.

The Patriot

The Patriot (2000) stands in contrast to both of these more recent texts in that what the Patriots, and in consequence most of the audience, believe about the British and what the film actually shows are very different. The British are not the most negatively represented here among the three texts; they are just the most hated.

The Patriots view Colonel Tavington's brutality as normal conduct for British officers, but apart from a couple of unrelated instances described by French Major Villeneuve and a South Carolinian enslaver we never see again, all violence against civilians is carried out on his orders, often to the horror of the men carrying them out. Commentary on this film is often very hard on the lieutenant taking Gabriel Martin into custody and Captain Wilkins burning the church, but ignores two key points. First, Tavington is the highest ranking officer on site in both scenarios and could easily give the same order to someone else if they refused, and second, Tavington is already flouting the rules of conduct regarding civilians. What is he going to do to subordinate officers disobeying him?

Protagonist Benjamin Martin condemns General Cornwallis for not restraining "your officers" (Tavington) from targeting civilians, but it is clear to the observant audience that he and General O'Hara (the only two characters in the film who keep the names of the historical figures on whom they are based) do restrain him. Martin, meanwhile, makes no effort to restrain his men from killing surrendering British soldiers even when he is present to do so, and his order forbidding them from doing so in the future proves very controversial.

These examples suggest very different moral codes operating in British/Loyalist and American/Patriot societies. Honor is of the utmost important to the British at large. While The Patriot does not depict George III, General Corwallis tells Tavington, "His Majesty, like history, rewards men who fight with honor." When Loyalist Captain Wilkins balks at Tavington's orders at Pembroke, the reason he gives is "There's no honor in this." Even as Tavington has little use for the concept of honor personally, he acknowledges that it is important to his culture of origin: "If I do this [ . . . ] I can never return to England with honor." Meanwhile, Martin's neighbors have been buying him drinks for years to commemorate his carnage at Fort Wilderness and it's impact on the French and Indian War's outcome. Patriots judge men for their results, not the conduct that produced them.

I have made a bit of fun of Tavington in the past for being so confident his prospects are better in America where he committed these atrocities than in England where people read about them in newspapers, but maybe he's right. He expresses no wish to remain in South Carolina following a British victory. He wants land in the Ohio territory. Considering the brutal conduct of newly minted "Americans" to the Native population of that region after the revolution, his credentials as a war criminal would likely have proven an asset rather than a burden.

The trouble is, he would still be British in this scenario, which is the true measure of a man's depravity according to The Patriot.

Conclusions

As much as I would love a British-made film or series presenting the American Revolution from the perspective of British soldiers serving in it, I think it is unlikely to ever happen (and if YOU know of one, please let me know!). John Adams, Turn, and The Patriot all have more to say about American Patriots than their British and Loyalist foes, although what they are saying about them is very different.

John Adams ends with a warning to future generations of Americans to use our freedoms wisely, or the sacrifices of those who shaped our origins as an independent country will all have been for naught. The implication is that if we cannot, it will be our own fault and not that of any other nation. Turn ends with flurry of nods to historical events to gloss over all the unhinged liberties it takes with historical accuracy in its main narrative, but it is consistent in viewing these events through America-tinted lenses. There is a reason the camera never shows us Simcoe's face as Abe Woodhull describes his role in making Canada a safe place for those escaping slavery; the brutal British thug of the series would be unrecognizable as such a benefactor. The Patriot ends with Martin and his surviving children and comrades in arms celebrating a "new world" that is identical to the old one in every respect except for not having British people in it.

What really separates these texts is perhaps not so much their generosity towards the British, or the lack thereof, but their degree of willingness to criticize Americas founders. John Adams the series, like John Adams the man, is nothing if not critical. Turn's criticisms are present, but they are very mild and avoid suggesting difficult questions to the audience (where were the formerly enslaved people Simcoe's Canada welcomed into its bosom fleeing from, exactly?). Perhaps the best way to characterize The Patriot's engagement with criticism of America is to point out how similar the militiamen are to the mob presented in the courtroom scenes in John Adams. The more vocal men of Boston seek to punish these young soldiers for the crimes of the crown, which Adams decries as dangerous and antithetical to the principles of a civilized society, which he believes Boston represents. The militiamen seek to punish Cornwallis's army for Tavington's crimes against civilians in lieu of doing anything to protect civilians from future war crimes, and this is presented as not only justifiable but heroic. Consequences who? Criticism? Never met her.

[iscanotoronto]

Unveiling the Invisible: How 3D Laser Scanning Services Are Reshaping Archaeological Studies

I've always been drawn to the mystery and allure of the past. As an archaeologist, I've spent countless hours poring over ancient texts, examining artifacts, and excavating sites. But in recent years, a groundbreaking technology has revolutionized the way we study the past: 3D laser scanning Toronto.

When I first heard about laser scanning, I was skeptical. It seemed too good to be true. How could a machine simply scan a site and produce a detailed 3D model? But as I learned more, I realized the immense potential of this technology.

Laser scanning works by emitting a series of laser beams that bounce off surfaces and return to the scanner. The data is then processed by a computer to create a highly accurate 3D representation of the site. This technology allows us to capture incredibly detailed information about the physical structure and topography of a site, even in areas that are difficult or dangerous to access.

One of the most significant advantages of laser scanning is its ability to preserve fragile archaeological sites. Traditional excavation methods can be destructive, especially for delicate artifacts and structures. With laser scanning, we can create detailed digital records of sites without disturbing them. This is particularly important for sites that are threatened by natural disasters or human activity.

Another benefit of laser scanning is its ability to reveal hidden features that may not be visible to the naked eye. For example, laser scanning can detect subtle changes in elevation that may indicate the presence of buried structures or artifacts. This technology has led to the discovery of numerous previously unknown archaeological sites.

In addition to preserving and discovering archaeological sites, laser scanning is also being used to study ancient civilizations in new and innovative ways. By analyzing 3D models of sites, archaeologists can gain insights into the daily lives, social structures, and beliefs of ancient peoples. For example, laser scanning has been used to reconstruct the layout of ancient cities, identify the locations of important buildings, and even analyze the flow of people and goods within these cities.

One of the most exciting applications of laser scanning in archaeology is the creation of virtual reality experiences. By combining 3D models with virtual reality technology, archaeologists can transport visitors back in time and allow them to experience ancient sites as they may have looked thousands of years ago. This is a powerful tool for education and public outreach.

As laser scanning technology continues to evolve, I am confident that it will play an increasingly important role in archaeological research. By providing us with new and innovative ways to study the past, this technology is helping to unlock the secrets of our history and preserve it for future generations.

Contact us: iScano Toronto 126 Simcoe Street, Unit 2204, Toronto, Ontario M5H 4E6 (647) 773-1341 https://iscano.com/3d-laser-scanning-toronto/

[cabbxges-and-kings]

About your post talking about how Burn and Samuel could basically play anyone and Turn, etc... asides from coming on here to say I AGREE 100% I also wanted to ask if you knew that Samuel had initially auditioned for André, and also what would you make of an André played by him 👀 I personally really liked what JJ Feild did with him but I'd kill to see Roukin's take

For some reason, I was terrified that this was my first anon hate here because of the anonymous feature being used lmao. I will admit, I didn't know that and I would love to look more into it! I really like JJ Field as Andre, his portrayal made me really adore Andre (despite the shitty things Andre did). It's kind of strange for me to imagine Sam as Andre, but he did play a charming character in The Librarians? Some author by the name of Dare, I believe? I never watched the show myself, I just saw clips of it, so I think he could pull it off. I'm so used to Sam as Simcoe that it's hard for me to picture him as Andre since JJ Field did such a good job with him! Haha, imagine if Sam played Andre but used Simcoe's voice for it. AND IMAGINE HIM IN THE FLUTE SOLO. I keep equating Sam with Simcoe in my mind, so it's a little funny to me.

Just to preface, I don't think anyone in the turn cast should've been replaced at all! I really liked everyone's portrayal and I think it's exactly what made me love turn so much because they all felt very authentic. Even though Abe is really hated by the fandom, I think Jamie did a good job of portraying Abe to make people feel so passionately about his character. I just think Hewlett and Simcoe are such unique roles that anyone besides Burn and Sam might not have the same effect.

[nwbeerguide]

Celebrate the release of Bale Breaker's Skyward IPA, July 28th at both locations!

image courtesy Bale Breaker Brewing

Press Release

Yakima, Wash. – July 18, 2023 – Bale Breaker Brewing Company, a family-owned brewery located in the beautiful Yakima Valley, is excited to announce the newest 12oz can: Skyward IPA, releasing later this month and joining March's new release, Daybreak Pale Ale, to round out the brewery’s year-round lineup.

Skyward IPA is joining Daybreak Pale Ale as the new kids in their 12oz can lineup. These two new beers are a culmination of the brewery’s 10 years of brewing experience, the family's 90+ years of hop farming, and the updated and maturing palettes of both the brewers and their customers.

Skyward IPA is a clean, easy-drinking IPA. Similarly to how Daybreak Pale Ale joined the year-round lineup while keeping the classic Field 41 Pale Ale around, Skyward will join Bale Breaker’s flagship IPA, Topcutter, as a second IPA option for their year-round lineup. These two new beers are a more modern, fresh take on classic Pacific Northwest Pale Ales and IPAs, while staying true to the brewery’s goal of brewing beers that showcase the hops grown right here on their 4th generation family hop farm.

“After years of innovating with Hazy IPAs, Pilsners, and even branching into hard seltzer, we're going back to what made us love beer and brewing in the first place with our 2023 releases of Daybreak and Skyward,” says Bale Breaker co-owner Meghann Quinn. “Skyward is a call back to a core goal when we opened our brewery 10 years ago: to make a damn good West Coast IPA. This time around, we’re leaning on a decade of brewing experience and new techniques to produce flavors that feel classic yet fresh and appeal to a wide array of customers.”

About Skyward IPA:

6.5% ABV

An old mentor told us back when we first started brewing that here in the PNW, the best beer is an IPA so clear you can read a book through it. And that’s exactly what Skyward is. A crisp, clear West Coast IPA, named for the direction our hops stretch as they grow on our 4th generation family hop farm. Featuring Simcoe®, Mosaic®, Citra®, and CTZ hops for notes of grapefruit, pineapple, and a classic West Coast dankness. 

To celebrate this release, Bale Breaker is throwing a Skyward Summer Bash at their Yakima taproom on Friday, July 28th, it will be released at their Ballard taproom on tap and in 12oz 6-packs that same day, and it will be receiving larger distribution throughout Washington, Oregon, and Idaho beginning next week. To find the beer outside of the taprooms, check out Bale Breaker’s online beer finder. Washington customers can also order the beer to be shipped directly to them from Bale Breaker via their online store after launch.

About Bale Breaker  Crafting fresh-off-the-farm brews from the middle of a hop field, Bale Breaker Brewing Company is a family-owned brewery located in the beautiful Yakima Valley. Backed by four generations of hop farming experience, Bale Breaker started in 2013, and has grown to become the fourth largest independent craft brewery in Washington.  With a 30-barrel brewhouse at a 27,000 square foot facility, Bale Breaker crafts seven year-round canned beers, including the widely celebrated Topcutter IPA, and a diverse offering of seasonal beers in cans and on draft. They have two taprooms: one onsite at the Yakima brewery; and another in Seattle’s Ballard Brewing District. Bale Breaker beer can be found in retailers and bottleshops throughout Washington, Oregon, and Idaho. For more information, visit www.balebreaker.com or follow on Facebook and Instagram.

from Northwest Beer Guide - News - The Northwest Beer Guide https://bit.ly/3Q5Va4P

[simcogroupau]

What are the benefits and considerable factors before buying a stainless steel bench with sink?

Stainless steel benches with sinks are a staple in commercial kitchens worldwide. They provide a sturdy and reliable surface for food preparation and a convenient way to clean up after cooking. However, when we discuss selecting the proper product dimension mentioned here for your pantry, there are several factors to consider. This blog post will analyse the advantages of the item described in commercial pantries and look at some tips and considerations for selecting the correct size product for your workspace.

Benefits of the Titular Product

It provides Increased Durability and Strength

These classic products' primary benefits are their durability and strength. Stainless steel is a highly long-lasting substance that can withstand wear and tear. It is immune to corrosion and rust, making it an ideal choice in commercial pantries where constant exposure to moisture and other corrosive substances is daily.

If you wish to buy similar high-quality appliances, give our Wall Mounted and Over Shelves a chance. For more information, go to the Simco website.

In addition, stainless steel is also solid and sturdy, making it a reliable choice for food preparation surfaces. This material is also resistant to dents and scratches, so that it will maintain its appearance and function for a long time. For further information, visit Simco – the leading stainless steel benches with sinks supplier in Melbourne & Sydney.

Easy to Clean

Another significant benefit of such beautiful products is their ease of cleaning. Stainless steel is a non-porous material that does not soak up moisture and is highly resistant to bacterial growth. It is also easy to wipe down and sanitise, making it an ideal choice for use in food preparation areas.

Cleaning up after cooking is even more convenient with a basin integrated into the bench. This feature means you can quickly and easily dispose of food waste and other debris, making your pantry more hygienic and efficient.

Provides Clean & Hygienic Surface

Stainless steel benches with sinks are also highly hygienic. Because the described substance is non-porous and resistant to bacterial growth, it is an ideal choice for use in areas where food is prepared. Additionally, the integrated basin provides a convenient way to dispose of food waste and clean up spills and other messes, which can help prevent the spread of bacteria and other harmful pathogens.

Proves Versatile in the Kitchen

Another benefit of such durable items is their versatility. You can use them in various commercial workspace applications, from food preparation to dishwashing and everything in between. Because stainless steel is so durable and robust, it can be used in high-traffic areas without fear of damage or wear and tear.

Additionally, these basin variants come in various dimensions and designs, making it simple to locate the right one for your specific needs. Whether you need a small bench for a compact workplace or a large one for a high-volume restaurant, an ideal basin model can meet your needs.

Enhances the Aesthetic Appeal in the Workspace

Finally, these products are also aesthetically appealing. They have a sleek, modern look that complements any commercial kitchen decor. Additionally, because stainless steel is so durable and resistant to damage, it maintains its appearance over time, making it a long-lasting and attractive choice for your pantry. For more such products, visit Simco – the top stainless steel bench with sink supplier in Brisbane.

Factors for Selecting the Right-Sized Product

Consider the Available Space

The available space is the primary and most obvious factor when choosing the right size of the titular classic & elite product for your kitchen. Before you start shopping, take accurate measurements of the area where you plan to install the counter. This process will help you determine the maximum size of the bar while leaving enough room for other kitchen appliances, walkways, and other necessities.

Determine Your Food Preparation Needs

The next factor to consider is your food preparation needs. How much food do you typically prepare at once? How many people are working in the kitchen at the same time? Do you need a lot of counter space for chopping and preparing ingredients, or do you primarily need the sink for cleaning up after cooking?

These questions will help you determine the correct size offered for your kitchen. If you are preparing food for large groups of people or need a lot of counter space, a larger bench may be necessary. However, a minor bench may be sufficient if you primarily use the bench for washing dishes or cleaning up spills.

Determine the Size of Your Existing Appliances

If you plan to install your stainless steel bench with a sink near your other kitchen appliances, it is essential to consider the size of those appliances. For example, if you plan to install the board next to your refrigerator, you must confirm adequate space for the door to open fully without hitting the counter.

Determine the Height of the Bench

Another consideration when choosing the right size of the described commercial kitchen equipment for your kitchen is the height of the board. The standard height for most industrial kitchen counters is 36 inches, but some people may prefer a different size depending on their needs. For example, taller chefs may choose a higher board, while shorter chefs prefer a lower counter.

Consider the Number of Sink Compartments

The titular basin variants & products come in different configurations, including single or multiple sink compartments. If you want to use the basin for washing dishes and other large items, you may need a larger sink with various compartments. However, a smaller sink with a single container may be sufficient if you only plan to use the sink for cleaning up after cooking.

Simco also has a beautiful range of other counters. For example, if you wish to browse the products of Stainless Steel Benches with Splashback, visit Simco on our web page.

Consider the Type of Faucet

Finally, it is essential to consider the type of faucet that you plan to use with your product sourced from Simco – the foremost stainless steel bench with a sink supplier in Perth. Faucets come in different sizes and configurations, so choosing a faucet that is appropriate for the size of your sink and the type of kitchen tasks you plan to perform is crucial.

In short, stainless steel benches with sinks are a reliable and efficient choice for commercial kitchens of all types. They offer a range of benefits. Depending on whether you are looking for a new food preparation surface or a convenient way to clean up after cooking, the titular item is an excellent choice that will meet your needs. In addition, by considering these factors, you can find the ideal, multipurpose and practical item that is the perfect size for your kitchen, allowing you to quickly prepare food and maintain a clean and hygienic kitchen environment.

[honorhearted]

For a moment, Benjamin genuinely thought Mary might surge forward again -- perhaps even strike him, given the flames of fury dancing behind her bright eyes. They were icy and blue, and yet were also akin to the center of a smoldering candleflame.

“Thomas is not the only one who would wish to know,” she fumbled.

"Yes, I am aware," he replied coolly. "You haven't exactly been shy with your desires, Mrs. Woodhull."

Mary narrowed her eyes, clear suspicion and defeat flooding across her features. “So you’re telling me that you know absolutely nothing?”

"My scouts can only do so much," Benjamin affirmed. "Abe...he is a loose cannon. As I'm sure you're well aware, he does whatever he wishes, and if his desires line up with the Cause? Well...we take advantage of that."

Something in Mary seemed to deflate. Her posture grew smaller, defeated, and a brief sting of guilt whipped up and down his chest. She turned toward the tent flaps, and just as he thought to apologize she spun back around, the replenished coals in her eyes making him briefly recoil.

“I’m the one who covered up Abraham’s murder of Ensign Baker after he overheard Abe speak about the ring, by setting fire to our home," she seethed. "I advised him to kill the courier en route to Major John Andre with evidence that would expose the ring.”

Benjamin blinked, his mouth dropping in stunned disbelief. "Ludicrous!" he exclaimed. "Madam, your desperation is reeking..."

Mary fiercely continued on, “I gave Abe the idea to use Rogers as a Culper decoy to throw Simcoe off the trail. I distracted the Queen’s Rangers to keep them from apprehending Caleb Brewster. I shot Simcoe in hopes of ridding the world of him once and for all when he intended to execute Abe without the benefit of a trial. Were it not for me, major, there would have been many an opportunity for your Cause to fail.” 

The more she spoke, the more Benjamin reeled from the shocking admission. "No..." With an incredulous laugh, he shook his head. "There is no way you were the mastermind behind all of this. Abe, he...he isn't the most intellectual in times of great apprehension, but he's certainly not stupid." Appraising her with visible scorn, he pressed, "Do you truly expect me to believe that a woman who hosts sewing circles and prepares menus for parties was the one skilled enough to nearly achieve a head-shot?"

Mary remained immovable. “My loyalty is not to an army or some ideology. It is to my family. Family is everything to me, which is why you can trust me.”

"I trust Abe, who is presently not here," Benjamin fired back. "So unless there is someone else who can vouch for your story, I'm afraid this is mere conjecture. You could've easily sat in on Abe's preparations." Narrowing his eyes, he pointed out, "Besides: if this is all true, why am I only hearing of it now?"

Because Abraham is a damned good liar; it was partially why he'd thought of him for the role.

Features melding into a look of uncertainty, Benjamin rolled his lips inward and covered his mouth, closing his eyes as he heaved a weary exhale. "Madam, even if your confession does prove sound, what do you expect me to do?" he demanded. "Your sex limits your contribution, and I certainly don't feel you're at liberty to know the tactical plans that divulge Abe's whereabouts."

"What do you mean, some of our success is owed to your efforts? Just what have you done?"

Major Tallmadge had no way of knowing what Mary had contributed. She knew that. And yet the query, sounding almost like a challenge, burned her. Lowering her arms, Mary balled her hands up into fists, her knuckles whitening as she channeled her frustration into them. 

"Thomas is too young to understand," he argued. "If you tell him Abe is on holiday, he'll believe you...what you don't know can't hurt you, and what you don't know can't hurt Abe."

Damn it. Her intention to use Thomas as a means to gain information had failed terribly. Tallmadge had seen right through her. A brief pause as she retracted her arms, hiding them within the safety of her coat as she flexed them in an attempt to stop the tremoring. Then a deep breath. 

“Thomas is not the only one who would wish to know,” Mary clumsily retorted. 

"Mrs. Woodhull, you and I are about the same in regards to our knowledge of his present state. We've been keeping in contact through Rivington's Gazette, but that can only do so much."

“So you’re telling me that you know absolutely nothing?” She replied in disbelief. His gaze shifted between her eyes and the ground. Perhaps he really was hiding something. 

"I know it will displease you to hear this, but I'm not going to endanger my entire regiment for one man -- even if that one man is my best friend. You should know by now that this is for the greater good...for the very son with whom you're trying to manipulate me."

Briefly disheartened, Mary defeatedly turned to exit the tent, only to stop just short of the threshold. In a huff, she mustered her courage and turned on the heel of her boot to face him again. 

“I’m the one who covered up Abraham’s murder of Ensign Baker after he overheard Abe speak about the ring, by setting fire to our home. I advised him to kill the courier en route to Major John Andre with evidence that would expose the ring.”

With her adrenaline racing, she boldly stepped toward Tallmadge with burning eyes. 

“I gave Abe the idea to use Rogers as a Culper decoy to throw Simcoe off the trail. I distracted the Queen’s Rangers to keep them from apprehending Caleb Brewster. I shot Simcoe in hopes of ridding the world of him once and for all when he intended to execute Abe without the benefit of a trial. Were it not for me, major, there would have been many an opportunity for your Cause to fail.” 

In that moment she felt as though she’d run a marathon, and regardless of Tallmadge’s answer, she knew she was in the right. She bravely held his gaze, continuing her defiance.

“My loyalty is not to an army or some idealogy. It is to my family. Family is everything to me, which is why you can trust me.”

[acrossthewavesoftime]

To you my heart I must resign, O choose me for your Valentine!

(x)

It's that time of the year again when one can post the first (surviving) Valentine's Day's missive in North America, sent by a certain John Graves Simcoe to Sarah "Sally" Townsend on 14 February 1779.

Simcoe, who adorned his poem with two bleeding hearts bearing the initials "J.G.S" and "S.T." pinned together by Cupid's arrow, clearly was in love with her, though, as the poem itself acknowledges, he was aware of the fact that a relationship between them would be difficult; the Townsends, who grudgingly quartered Simcoe, were sympathetic to the rebel cause, to the point the assumption persists that Sarah may have been an informant for her brother Robert Townsend, also known under his intelligence alias Samuel Culper, giving him information on the British she received by cultivating Simcoe's trust.

One such tale goes as far as to name Sarah as the informant who made the capture of John André possible. In the wake of André's execution in Tappan, she supposedly confessed her actions to Simcoe, feeling remorseful that she had helped bring about the death of his close friend. Simcoe, deeply hurt she had betrayed his trust and genuine intentions, is said to have lost interest in her romantically, but still kept her secret.

Of course, the story seems rather a bit over the top; what is known about Sarah is that she was a favourite with British officers stationed in the area, and that she kept Simcoe's poem until her death in 1842. She never married, which caused romantic speculation that Simcoe may have been the love of her life after all. Realistically, I think the sentimental value Sarah clearly felt Simcoe's poem had does not necessarily have romantic connotations; she may have decided to keep it because she felt flattered someone sat down to write a piece of poetry about her, and realistically speaking, how often in one's life does one receive an original, hand-written love poem?

But Sarah would not remain the only lady to treasure a poem written by Simcoe; his wife Elizabeth, an as far as I can tell not infrequent protagonist of his poetry, pinned one she clearly particularly treasured to the pages of her Canadian diary/manuscript which he wrote for her to commemorate their 12th wedding anniversary. If he ever wrote her any Valentine's Day-poetry, I can't tell, but he didn't need any specific occasion to compose some lines about making "my Eliza with true passion burn"- a lot saucier than the comparatively tame poem, which even invokes the virgin goddess Artemis by the epithet "Delia", written to Sarah Townsend (and, of course, he also features the most romantic of all things in the world, urns, as @copper-haired-cuddlebug in particular will be aware of):

Fairest Maid, where all is fair, Beauty’s pride and Nature’s care; To you my heart I must resign, O choose me for your Valentine! Love, Mighty God! Thou know’st full well, Where all thy Mother’s graces dwell, Where they inhabit and combine To fix thy power with spells divine; Thou know’st what powerful magick lies Within the round of Sarah’s eyes, Or darted thence like lightning fires, And Heaven’s own joys around inspires; Thou know’st my heart will always prove The shrine of pure unchanging love! Say; awful God! Since to thy throne Two ways that lead are only known— Here gay Variety presides, And many a youthful circle guides Through paths where lilies, roses sweet, Bloom and decay beneath their feet; Here constancy with sober mien Regardless of the flowery Scene With Myrtle crowned that never fades, In silence seeks the Cypress Shades, Or fixed near Contemplation’s cell, Chief with the Muses loves to dwell, Leads those who inward feel and burn And often clasp the abandon’d urn,– Say, awful God! Did’st thou not prove My heart was formed for Constant love? Thou saw’st me once on every plain To Delia pour the artless strain— Thou wept’sd her death and bad’st me change My happier days no more to range O’er hill, o’er dale, in sweet Employ, Of singing Delia, Nature’s joy; Thou bad’st me change the pastoral scene Forget my Crook; with haughty mien To raise the iron Spear of War, Victim of Grief and deep Despair: Say, must I all my joys forego And still maintain this outward show? Say, shall this breast that’s pained to feel Be ever clad in horrid steel? Nor swell with other joys than those Of conquest o’er unworthy foes? Shall no fair maid with equal fire Awake the flames of soft desire: My bosom born, for transport, burn And raise my thoughts from Delia’s urn? “Fond Youth,” the God of Love replies, “Your answer take from Sarah’s eyes.”

[emisonme]

Restructuring the original?....

People have been wondering: Why does Don’t Go Yet say it is through Syco/Epic? Syco went defunct, didn’t it?

Yes, Syco Music, the actual working Label, did go defunct. The company that Syco Music did it’s business through, did not.

It seems, that Camila is still operating under her original contract. That would be the only reason Syco would still have any involvement in her new music.

How can that be, if the Label isn’t there? Because 5H didn’t sign a contract with Syco Music. They signed their contract through Simco Ltd. Simco is still in operation, and wholly owned by Sony. when the deal was made between Cowbell and Sony, all contracts that were through Syco/Simco simply stayed intact and in Sony’s hands. So, even though there is no longer a physical label operating under Syco Music, the contracts that were signed are still viable, because Simco is still an active operating company.

There is a difference in the way Camila’s music is contracted, though. All of her previous music was owned by Simco Ltd under exclusice licensing rights to Epic. Not now! DGY is now owned by Epic. There is no more exclusive licensing. Epic is the primary contract holder, and Syco/Simco is the secondary.

Sony transferred ownership of Camila’s masters to Epic. Epic now has FULL contractual control over Camila, and “Syco” is most likely the UK/European distribution leg. In other words, UK/European distribution is being handled by Sony Music UK, since it is the immediate parent company of Simco Ltd.

Again, what does all this mean?  If I’m understanding the situation correctly, it should mean that Camila DID NOT resign with either company. With Syco still being credited, it shows that she is still releasing this era under her original contracts with Epic/Syco/Sony. That Sony simply restructured their joint venture contract, from a licensing agreement, to full contractual control to Epic, and distribution through “Syco”.

If we are correct in our thinking, with everything we have seen and been told, ‘Familia” SHOULD be the last album owed to both Epic and Syco/Simco/Sony UK.

Side Note: People are confused as to why the Cinderella movie and soundtrack didn’t count as one of her commitments to the original contract. The truth is, it never was. She signed a different contract with Sony Pictures, for the movie. Sony decided to distribute the soundtrack through Columbia. If it had distributed through Epic, there would have been a chance for it to count. She could have negotiated it count against her Epic contract.

Camila’s recording contract is through Epic/Sony...Not Columbia/Sony. Plus, the soundtrack isn’t just her music. It’s going to have songs from a variety of artists, not just Camila with a bunch of featured artists.

What we don’t know, is if this deal with Sony Pictures was a one off, or if she signed a POSSIBLE multi-picture deal with them.

[hmsannlett]

So if one were to ~hypothetically~ write an Annlett Jane Austen/Regency AU, here’s what I’m thinking (@tallmadgeandtea you’ve created a monster):

Anna is a widow (my apologies to the Selah fans, but it’s the only socially acceptable way I can think of to have him out of the picture, unless we want Anna/Hewlett to be Lydia/Wickham levels of scandalous on steroids)

Hewlett is commander of the local militia

Simcoe arrives with the militia recruits (must have our good couple’s antagonist, no?)

In an effort to bolster her dwindling inheritance left to her by Selah (who was somewhat in arrears after getting on the wrong side of the law several times), Anna rents out her house to some of the newly-arrived militia officers (enter, Simcoe) and relocates to a room above Selah’s old inn in town

There’s an initial Annlett meet cute (but make it enemies to lovers) in the town square featuring Hewlett’s awkward rambling and Anna’s disinterest, setting them up for future awkward run-ins and ~conversations while dancing~

Hewlett has the very regrettable idea of asking Mary’s sewing circle about Anna since she hardly speaks to him at first

As an old friend of Richard’s, Hewlett is staying with him rather than at the barracks; Richard drops hints of Anna’s former attachment to Abe and of Selah’s skirting of the law once he sees that Hewlett’s interest in Anna is piqued (must have the gossip; it’s Jane Austen, after all)

Hewlett, ever the proper English gentleman, is a consummate dancer, and has An Illuminating Conversation with Anna while dancing (@angelabowermicelli this is for you)

All the canon animosity between Hewlett and Simcoe is there, and it has the two factions of the regiment quietly seething at each other and putting the townspeople on edge

And, of course, Anna and Hewlett eventually team up against Simcoe like the power couple they are

Abigail, Akinbode, and Cicero are the cute family they deserved to be in canon

Abigail works for Anna (fully paid and free) and lives with Cicero on Anna’s estate with her, until Abigail moves with Cicero to London to find a more secure income than Anna is able to offer her at present

Akinbode (also paid and free) works on the estate as well, until he joins the army

***Now we veer into total AU territory***

Background Ben/Sarah fix-it where she isn’t killed off for man pain

Ben and Caleb are in the Navy but are home on leave (thanks to canon I just can’t picture them being in the same army as the redcoats, so I’m justifying this with the fact that Caleb lived a maritime life after the war + we all know how good Ben looks in blue; it’d be a shame to ruin that image)

Sarah and Anna are boss widow friends

Mary and Anna are not quite friends because of *history* but are on better terms than in canon because there’s no war/espionage secrets dividing them and the Abe/Anna dynamic is severely reduced

Or, other options: Shall we keep to canon and have Mary married to Abe, or go full AU and fulfill one of my Mary/Caleb or Mary/Baker agendas?

Anna must be dragged to social events by Ben, Caleb, and Sarah (mostly Caleb, who only goes so he can drink the hosts out of house and home); Anna has little love for mingling with “society” and even less love for society’s expectations of women

Ben and Caleb disparage the militia at each of these events, criticizing them for lazing around the countryside, while Ben and Caleb had to earn their ranks in the Navy (gotta retain some of the canon animosity)

Hewlett is a part of the Royal Society, as is Andre (and there’s tension between them because Andre was made a Fellow first--a position Hewlett long coveted--after his voluntary retirement from the army after having become lauded enough to earn Peggy’s father’s respect, and he’s more included in the goings-on of the society than Hewlett is)

Andre is married to Peggy and living happily in London (we’re handwaving Benedict out of the story, unless there’s an opportunity to publicly shame him), and Abigail and Cicero work for them after moving to London

[megs-mostly-past-random-fandoms]

Painting

Here’s another fic! My hope is to be able to open requests soon! *Familiar characters are NEVER mine!*

Fandom: TURN: Washington’s Spied

Warnings: Fluff. Me trying to write romance for Simcoe without making him OOC XD. Post show! It’s pretty long.

Pairings/Characters: John Graves Simcoe x fem!reader

From your place next to him, you reached over and gently began playing with John's fingers. Your eyes were trained on his hands. Those hands that could easily kill people but were so gentle with you. John's other hand tightened slightly on your hip in his sleep. You smiled to yourself as he began waking and your mind began wandering.

         During the war, you and your family had decided to relocate to Canada. It was safer there during the tumultuous years between America and the British. But it wasn't until Lt. Colonel John Graves Simcoe was given the office of lieutenant governor that you met him.  

         Your father was close with the British officers in Canada and was, of course, invited to the celebration of the new lieutenant governor. He brought you, your mother, and your siblings along. When you first met John, his stare had intimidated you. But there was something more behind those striking blue eyes that you couldn't quite place. You found yourself staring back at him, unable to tear your gaze away until your father brought your name up in his conversation.

         "Oh, I thoroughly agree. As the first lieutenant governor, Governor Simcoe should have his portrait painted," your father was saying to one of the many officials in attendance. John looked rather bored, but gave a tiny smile as your father continued, "My daughter, Y/N, is quite the painter. She has done portraits of everyone in the family and a few of the other officers here. I'm sure she would be honored." He looked at you, his eyes daring you to disagree.

         "O-Of course, Father. Though I am certain Governor Simcoe would rather commission a more experienced painter." Your gaze met John's again although this time, his looked a bit more interested. He hummed lightly. "Perhaps, if I were to see some of your work, I would be better informed to make a decision." He spoke to you as if you were the only person in the room. In truth, it terrified you to have his attention. He was so intense.

         "Yes. You must join us for supper tomorrow evening. You would be able to see Y/N's work then." Once again, your father spoke for you. That didn't bother you. You were used to it, but it did seem to bother John a bit. "Tell me, Miss Y/L/N, are you a selective mute?" Your brows furrowed and you shook your head. He gave you another smile before turning to your father. "I would appreciate if, in the future, you let your daughter speak for herself in my presence."

         Your father blinked in surprise. Clearly, he hadn't been expecting that. Even you could sense the threat behind the governor's words. "Of course. My apologies," your father stuttered out and you had to prevent yourself from smiling. It wasn't that you didn't love your father, but sometimes it was nice to see someone speak to him as if he weren't better than they were. John turned to you once more and you found yourself inviting the governor to dine with your family yourself.

         The next evening, after supper, your father shooed everyone from the room except one servant that acted as a chaperone so that John could discuss your work with you in private. He looked over the portraits you had in your family's parlor as well as some of your sketches and a painting you had been working on.

         "These are quite good, Miss Y/L/N. I would like to commission you to paint this portrait the officials so badly desire." You looked at him in confusion. "Thank you. I take it you aren't exactly keen on the idea of having your portrait painted?" He frowned a bit. "No, but one must do what one must." You smiled at him. "True, but why me then?"

         "You have talent, Miss Y/L/N. And, if I may be so forward, I would very much like the opportunity to see you again." You felt your face heat up and you cleared your throat. "Oh. Thank you, Governor." He smiled at you. "Shall we begin tomorrow then?" You nodded immediately. "Of course." He gave you a slight bow and bid you good evening.

         That was how it all began. The two of you sat for hours every day for weeks while you painted his portrait. As you painted, you talked to one another. At first, he sat stiffly, afraid to open up even a little, but that soon changed. He told you the truth about his past. He admitted the part he played in the war between America and the British. He admitted that he had done terrible things for what he thought was right. You had been shocked and somewhat horrified. But then, you remembered hearing about all the policies he was enacting as the lieutenant governor and softened. He wasn't the same man he was before.  

         You don't know when or how it happened, but over the time you spent together, you developed feelings for the man. Feelings that only grew stronger the closer you got to finishing the portrait. You found yourself becoming sad whenever you realized that there would soon be no need for the two of you to spend time together. It upset you a bit, truthfully. Especially as he had given no indication that he returned any feelings for you. Until the day came that you finished the painting, you were in the dark of the man's interest in you.

         "I've finished," you told him as you put your paintbrush down for the final time. John rose from the chair he'd been posed in and came around to look at the painting over your shoulder. He was so close you could practically feel the heat radiating off of him and yet, he wasn't close enough. You rose as gracefully as you could and moved away from him. He stared at the painting and said nothing. His eyes scanned your work, taking in everything.

         "You hate it," you said sadly when he still made no comment. His eyes met yours. "Quite the contrary. It is exquisite." You smiled a bit, but there was no mirth in it. John cocked his head to the side. "You are unhappy?" You were a little surprised. You didn't think he would be that in tune with your moods. "I, well…yes and no. I am please with the work I've done. It is one of my best, if I may say so."

         "Then why are you not pleased? I must confess, the minds of women confound me still." You let out a little giggle at that, prompting a smile to appear on his face. You took a deep breath and confessed, "I am unhappy because I shall now be deprived of your company. I must admit that I have come to enjoy our time together. Our hours together have been the happiest time of my day recently."

         John didn't reply at first and you had no clue what he was thinking. He schooled his features well. You waited rather impatiently for him to say something. You wanted to know what was going through his mind as he stared at you. With every second that passed, your heart broke a bit more. When you finally thought you might cry, John spoke.

         "I confess you surprised me. You've given no sign of this. I had hoped to approach the subject with you before I spoke to your father." You looked at him. "My father?" John smiled. "For permission to court you, of course. If that is something you wish." Your jaw dropped open in a very unladylike fashion.

         "Leave us," you told the servant. She opened her mouth to argue, but did what she was told when you gave her a pleading glance. Once she was gone, you turned back to John. "Do you mean that?" He nodded. "You will find I never say anything that I do not mean." You beamed up at him. "I would be honored to be courted by you, sir." He took a step closer to you, gently taking your chin between his thumb and forefinger. "Please, call me John."

"What are you thinking about so intently?" John's voice, still rough from sleep, asked. You tilted your head up to look at him with a smile. "How we met. How we ended up here." John's grip on your hip tightened even more. "Fond memories then?" You playfully rolled your eyes and sat up just enough to place a kiss to his lips. His hands traveled to your spine, holding you closer. "I love you, John," you mumbled against his lips. "And I adore you, my wife."

(a/n: I hope you like it!)

[annastrxng]

@ive-been-reminding-you​

There was an awful lot of commotion that day as Simcoe walked through the marketplace. He had expected this to some degree, since the rumor was started about the King, himself, paying a visit to the colonies. John had thought the whole idea was ridiculous, since most people would surely not believe the King would set foot on this soil. Least of all would he visit Setauket if the rumors had been true!

Yet, he was proven wrong it seemed, with so much of the town was scurrying about and trying to look like good little loyalists. Simcoe only hoped that it did the trick in aiding them with ferreting out whatever rebels may be in this pit.

He inspected the crowd like a hawk, searching for any suspicious activity, when he noticed Mrs. Strong among them. His features softened into a smile and he made his way over to her.

An electrified buzz had swarmed like a cloud of bees around the tavern for over a week now. Eager and yet, hushed whispers carried the unfathomable words to the rebel spy’s ears. ‘THE KING IS COMING?!’ Anna Strong prayed the unmitigated opinions of the local drunks could be discounted and dismissed as the conjuring of someone’s over-active imagination. If the gossip held a single iota of truth, there was sure to be trouble. As if, there wasn’t enough of it rampaging through Setauket already!!! Pity’s sake.

If the inebriated ramblings of guests and patrons were not enough to drive Anna positively mad, Maarten DeJong’s insistence on perfecting the tavern and providing only the best service would. He had her and Cicero working over time to polish the best silver and clean the finest china that she had. It was one thing to want to perform such a task for an honored friend and quite another for one’s most despised enemy. Yet, the brunette didn’t quite have the luxury of revealing her innermost feelings. Not whilst she lived in a section of the King’s stronghold.

She is grateful to get away from the air tainted with tobacco, vomit, ale, sweat, and other bodily functions. Even more so, to step away from DeJong’s constant looming presence. Her relief is short-lived as a startlingly familiar voice beckons to her. The basket slung over her arm is drawn every closer as though, it could provide a shield of protection for her.

Gracious lips depart with a begrudging smile the very moment she spins to face him. The fingers of her free hand wrestle a straying dark coil of her hair back behind her ear. “Ah, Captain. To what do I owe the pleasure?” Of course, internally, she truly meant displeasure. Saying as much would be truly impolite. Given the nature of his inquiry, she elects to be courteous.  

“Truthfully, I’ve been so busy I haven’t the time to turn around. Thank you for asking.” Anna answers. Her words are imbued with honesty. Not only had she been working around the clock at the tavern but her duties for the rebellion had increased ten-fold. Her mind reeled for a way to keep this conversation going in order to delay her return back to the kitchens. “I take it you’ve heard the great news?” She ponders, allowing her maple hues to linger upon him. Then taking a gamble she presses in a casual tone. “Tell me. Is there any truth to it?” If it were true, Anna contemplated inviting the intrepid Captain to provide security at the tavern. In doing so, she might be able to keep him out of a plot to murder the monarch.

[nwbeerguide]

Now distributing through River Barrel Distributing Bellingham Cider Company and Trap Door.

Press Release

Western Washington will soon have even more local beverage options to choose from as River Barrel Distributing partners with Trap Door Brewing and Bellingham Cider Company. 

Founded in 2014 by Bryan Shull in Vancouver, WA, Trap Door Brewing is a multi-generational company producing an array of high-quality, award-winning beers. It currently operates two locations – a brewery and “beer porch” in Vancouver and a brewery and kitchen at its production location in Washougal.  

Trap Door offers a selection of beer styles including lagers, pilsners, fruited sours, stouts, and pale ales, but what it’s most known for are its hazy IPAs.  

“Trap Door is a hop-focused brewery,” says Jake Watt, Head Brewer. “This means you can expect any modern, hop-forward style from us and for us to be on the leading edge of hoppy beers including clear and hazy seasonals and one-offs.” 

Made with Citra, Simcoe, and Amarillo hops, Glowed Up IPA is one of their most popular beers and a 2019 gold medal winner at the Washington Beer Awards. Other favorites include the Trap Door IPA and award winners Day Beer West Coast Pilsner and Porch Beer Pale Ale. In addition to hazys, the brewery has a strong lager program and led by its annual Interiority Imperial Stout, is starting to focus on a barrel program for stouts and barleywines.  

“We are excited to bring Trap Door Brewing on board and to feature a brewery that's part of the fast-growing beer culture of Vancouver,” says Jeremiah Smith, Sales Director at River Barrel Distributing. “And like many of our other brands, Trap Door has deep ties to its community and a passion for brewing quality beers.” 

RBD has also added another cidery to its list of craft beverage makers. Bellingham Cider Company is a solar-powered cidery that produces small-batch hard cider from 100% Washington apples. The company prides itself on being “Fiercely Local,” using fresh, local ingredients and adding no sulfites, sugars, or preservatives. 

Bellingham Cider was begun by Josh Serface and Bryce Hamilton. Both not only came from backgrounds of growing and pressing fruit, but also made their own homemade beer and cider. When they decided Bellingham needed a great cider presence, they opened their bayside location in 2018.  

“Only using Washington-sourced ingredients, we are excited to share the bounty of our state by growing our Washington distribution,” says Bryce Hamilton, Owner of Bellingham Cider.   

The company offers a variety of fruit-forward ciders like their Rainier Cherry Dry, Blackberry Ginger, Imperial Pineapple, and even a Cascade- and Citra-hopped variety dubbed as “cider for the beer drinker.” 

“Washington has so much great fruit – especially apples," says Joe Cohen, Sales Manager at River Barrel Distributing. “We’re excited to bring in a supplier to showcase the amazing bounty of our state – as well as another unique presence from the ‘craft beverage mecca’ of Bellingham.” 

River Barrel Distributing serves King, Pierce, Thurston, Lewis, Snohomish, Kitsap, and Chelan counties in Western Washington and is actively growing its list of craft beverage makers. 

from Northwest Beer Guide - News - The Northwest Beer Guide https://bit.ly/3X3PSbM

[mercurygray]

Fandom asks: O, P, U? Please and thank you!

TURN!

O - Choose a song at random. Which ship or character does it remind you of?

Spotify served me up First Aid Kit's Master Pretender:

I always knew that I was young But with a head held high and a sharp tongue I could fool most anyone I never expected to be struck By the fatal hands of fortune or by Sheer bad luck But honey, now, we won't change And memories just rearrange And fall is a ways So I'm back again Oh, I'm a master pretender

And if this isn't Mary Woodhull in a song, I don't know what is.  

P - Invent a random AU for any fandom (we always need more ideas)

Oh, lord. This is really hard because you have to literally pick up the whole cast for these and still retain some basic group dynamics like who's fighting who. Law firm, college, coffeeshop, soccer team, Ancient Rome, Civil War, World Wars One and Two, because who's picky, not me, 20s noir, ballet company. I have seen or written all of these. 

WAIT HOLD ON - because this is where my head's at today, thank you, Mercy Street rewatch - HOSPITAL AU.

No one thought to tell him in medical school that hospitals were full of politics. Who gets tax dollars and photo ops with the mayor, and who gets a piece on the five o'clock news alleging malpractice and a further round of budget cuts - it's all fair game. And now Independence Medical Center is one more bad press day away from being sold to George Group and all the community-based medicine, the family clinic, the outpatient programs - all of that will be swept aside to make way for a privatized, soulless, corporate megahospital where everyone's a statistic and the only thing the board cares about is a profit.  But there's a new crop of doctors who are keen to tackle the ER statistics, and fight - really fight - for their place in the community. And even thought he's stuck behind his desk and his once brilliant exploits in surgery are long behind him, those young doctors are giving Dr. Washington hope.

Featuring, you know, a bunch of Gray's Anatomy level shenanigans and lots of making out in supply closets and probably a guest appearance by celebrated neurosurgeon Jed Foster because I am cheap like that.

U -  Three favorite characters from three different fandoms, and why they’re your favorites

TURN -  Nathaniel Tallmadge, and not just because he's Ben's dad, but because as a character he's legitimately interesting - a churchman without his church, a father without his son, a man whose absolute willingness to stand up for his beliefs can't possibly a family trait. I love the scene between him and Ben at the end of S1, and I really wish we'd gotten a chance to see more of what his life in town looks like if he doesn't have a church. (I also just really love his takedown of SImcoe's terrible plot to frame him - "I'm guessing you've never seen a Pennsylvania long rifle, captain?")

Peaky Blinders  - Aunt Polly, because everyone has told her she can't, and she has roundly and resolutely listened to no one. She's held together a business, raised four incredibly difficult boys, dealt with the loss of her own children, and still has time to look amazing.

Pirates of the Caribbean - Pintel and Ragetti. They get some of the best lines in the whole series, and I don't care if they're just there for comic relief, they're really good at it. "What vexes all men?" "The sea!" "Sums!" "The dichotomy of good and evil!"

[mythicallore]

Creature Feature: Igopogo

This long necked, dorsal finned, canine-featured critter is one of the most unusual lake beasts reputed to dwell in North America.

Located in Southern Ontario — just 40-miles north of Toronto — Lake Simcoe is the fourth-largest lake in the province and a remnant of the colossal, prehistoric freshwater sea known as Lake Algonquin. Algonquin’s basin also included Lake Huron, Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, Lake Nipigon and Lake Nipissing. When the ice dam melted at the end of the last ice age it dramatically reduced water levels in the region, leaving behind the lakes we see today.

In the 17th century the lake was known by the Huron natives as “Ouentironk” or “Beautiful Water.” In 1687, the Lahontan people changed it to Lake Taronto, an Iroquoian term meaning gateway or pass. Finally, in 1793, by John Graves Simcoe — the first Lieutenant-Governor of Upper Canada — renamed the lake in memory of his father, Captain John Simcoe.

This relatively small, island riddled, oval shaped body of water, which is approximately 20-miles long and 16-miles wide, is known for its clean water, fantastic fishing and, most notably, the bizarre beast that’s said to lurk within its gloomy, freshwater depths.

This unusual animal was dubbed Igopogo — no doubt, in honor of her famous cousins OGOPOGO of Lake Okanagan and MANIPOGO of Lake Manitoba — by the local fishermen.

That having been stated, there seems to be a bit of a rivalry over the beast’s appellation as, depending on whether or not you hail from Kempenfelt Bay or Beaverton, the monster’s has a few alternate nom de plumes, including “Kempenfelt Kelly,” “Beaverton Bessie” — which is, in and of itself, an homage to Lake Erie’s more notorious BESSIE — and even “Simcoe Kelly.”

It was even suggested by George M. Eberhart in his book “Mysterious Creatures: A Guide to Cryptozoology” that its most famous name, “Igopogo,” comes from Walt Kelly’s seminal comic strip “Pogo,” which featured a cadre of memorable swamp critters, including one who ran a mock presidential campaign utilizing the slogan: “I GO POGO.”

Considered by many cryptozoologists to be unique, even amongst her amazing peers, Igopogo is a rarely seen beast, which has been described as having a neck which resembles a “stove-pipe,” crowned by an unusual canine-like head.

This ostensibly mammalian description — which, it must be admitted, has in no way remained consistent throughout the many years of Igopogo sightings — has led some to speculate that this creature may biologically akin to AQUATIC ENIGMAS such as the notorious “Irish crocodile” the DOBHAR-CHU or even the Australian BUNYIP.

While tales of this cryptid go as far back as aboriginal legends and accounts from the earliest Europeans to settle the area, the first modern report hails from July 22, 1963.

The eyewitnesses involved with this sighting, including one Reverend  L.B. Williams, claimed that they saw not a typically mammalian, but a serpentine creature — not unlike Newfoundland’s eel-like CRESSIE — with multiple dorsal fins, that was anywhere from 30 to 70-feet in length, undulating in the water. It was also described as having a “charcoal covered” epidermis

This creature was allegedly captured on film while two, uncharacteristically calm, children watch from the shore. While there is no written account of when or by whom the obviously aged, black and white image was snapped, it remains an intriguing — if somewhat controversial — piece of potential photographic evidence of Igopogo’s existence.

Over two decades later, on June 13, 1983, William Skrypetz — a sonar operator with Lefroy’s Government Dock and Marina — took sonar reading which revealed a creature with a massive body and long tapering neck that seemed to look very much like the archetypal LAKE MONSTERS such as CHAMP or the LOCH NESS MONSTER.

During the 1980’s — author, cryptozoologist and president of the BCSCC (British Colombia Scientific Cryptozoology Club) — JOHN KIRK III, investigated this phenomenon and came to the conclusion that whatever might have lived in the lake had either migrated or had become deceased.

Kirk’s assessment of the situation was not without merit, as the sightings of this animal — with the notable exception of Skrypetz sonar hit — had dwindled to virtually nothing since the 1970’s. Kirk’s opinion of this creature’s status changed in 1991, however, when he was given a copy of a videotape by former British army officer and fellow cryptozoologist, Don Hepworth.

The video — which was purportedly shot from the shores of Lake Simcoe during that same year — apparently shows a terrifying lake demon rearing its head during a hydroplane race.

According to the unnamed videographer’s account, one of the racers her knew suffered a mechanical breakdown while on the south end of the lake and was forced to halt and make repairs. Just as the racer lifted the engine hatch in order to assess the damage, a large animal suddenly surfaced directly in front of him, stunning the racer as well as the spectators on the shoreline.

The landlocked crowd began to panic, fearing the worst for the downed competitor. The racer himself would later claim that this possibly prehistoric apparition would continue to stare at him it slowly lowered its head, finally submerging completely beneath the water.

Apparently, Kirk — upon repeated viewing of the controversial footage — confirmed that this creature was 9 and 12 feet long and had mammalia or, what he believed to be, pinniped (seal- or sea lion-like) features. Unfortunately the quality of the video and proximity of the creature to the camera did not allow for a more thorough investigation of its species.

This video evidence — which is infamously difficult to find — has raised the profile of this creature considerably, yet skeptics continue to insist that what people are seeing is nothing more than normal seals who have slipped into the lake via the rivers that connect it to Lake Huron. Still others think it may be related to the now famous Pacific Ocean dwelling SEA MONSTERS known as CADBOROSAURUS.

While the “seal” theory may debunk some of the unusual sightings, it in no way explains away the strange sonar hit reported in 1983. Even now, a decade into the 21st century, Lake Simcoe remains one of the most under explored cryptid habitats remaining in North America.