#my bilateral hosts!

[castlefly]

OK I'm sorry. this heals me slightly

[luxudus]

The Six Lords of Ko-ve-dor, and an introduction to my friend's project Star Odyssey

One last art piece to end the year on a high note. It's an entry @jennywolfgal's sophont in her sci-fi / spec-evo / worldbuilding project Star odyssey. A far future where humanity and a few other advanced species help to found a Galactic Coalition of Worlds spanning half the galaxy. Everyone go follow her and check out her project!

I genuinley consider this atm my magnum opus in every aspect, Linework, Texturing, Coloring, Composition, and ESPECIALLY rendering.

    The Commonality of Ko-ve-dor is an alliance between multiple sophont species evolving side by side on the same planet. All working together towards the prosperity for all denizens of the known galaxy.

     Planet Ko-ve-dor, also known as Kepler-442 B, is a super earth in a 3 planet star system all orbiting a K-Type main sequence star known as O-uosa. Ko-Ve-Dor’s higher mass, larger magnetosphere, denser atmosphere, 3 moons, larger continents and O-uosa’s longer lifespan make Ko-ve-dor a superhabitable world. Capable of hosting more biodiversity than our own earth for a far longer time.

    Plantlife on Ko-Ve-Dor is just as complex as it’s animal life and it shows. Most terrestrial flora possess a segmented exoskeleton that vary in shape and size akin to an insect. Most forms of plantlife exhibit both radial and bilateral symmetry in their overall body plan. Some species of Ko-ve-dor plantlife can even take in their surroundings with special segments that act as one big sensory organ.     And aside from some greenish phytoplankton, most flora on this world take on a red pigmentation to make the most out of its star’s dimmer light.

Not only is Ko-ve-dor more biodiverse than earth. But it’s greater abundance of life and more surface area means there's far more consumable biomass too. Allowing it’s animal life to reach greater heights and the option for greater brainpower. This paired with evolution’s trend towards more socialization. Means that sapient life has developed not once, or twice. But six times, all within a similar enough time frame for them to all interact with one another.      As each sophont species is a good representative of Ko-ve-dor’s kingdom of life. We will be skipping over the planet’s animal life to discuss their biology.     The Dor-Eø are the largest of the six sophonts and represent the planet’s many soft-bodied invertebrates. They take on a body plan very similar to earth’s flatworms. And being filter-feeders, they fill a niche not too different from whales. Their large carpet-like fins are actually enlarged partially external gills to aid in respiration. And they manipulate their environment with their two mitten shaped mandibles and opposable tusk thumbs.     They live in tight-knit nomadic pods where they ride the waves in search of plankton. They hunt said plankton like dolphins, continuously switching roles to either shepard the plankton and strike the condensed schools. And as they achieved sapience they’ve built nets to catch more plankton and dorsal fin flags to distinguish which pod they’re apart of.     The Dor-Ssri’ii represent a sapient species of aquatic, radially symmetrical fish analogs. They possess twelve eyes, with three on each side, a four sided jaw, and eight fins, four anterior fins and four posterior fins. Their intricate color palette helps them blend in with the yellow and red reefs.      They live in borderline eusocial schools where they manipulate their environment through their mouth like a tuskfish

    The Ko-Ka’Kta are terrestrial relatives of the Dor-Ssri’cai, these are a sapient species of para-reptilian pack hunters native to the deserts and shrublands of Ko-ve-dor. They retain their radial symmetry and are quite basal compared to their relatives. Their forearms have atrophied into small rudders used by females to attract mates and live in matriarchal packs.     And they manipulate their environment with four highly specialized tongues. Their lack of claws or fangs pushed them to crafting an array of weapons to hunt. That and their hierarchical pack structure paved way for sapience    The Ko-A’atur represent the most derived group of Ko-ve-dor’s Vertebrates. Descending from a group that forgone their radial symmetry and became secondarily bilateral. Their heads hyper-elongated to the point where it’s now two separate body parts all together. Their lips have pulled back and became large flaps to cool off and express emotions.     Of all the sophonts they live the least socially, They forage and occasionally hunt in groups of 3-5 individuals. But the social bonds formed are so tight and complex that it managed to bring them up to sapience.     Onto life in the sky. The Ve-Huik are one of two representatives of Ko-ve-dor’s aerial invertebrates. They are a species of hexapodal invertebrate flyers protected by a sturdy exoskeleton. They fill a niche similar to parrots,  capable of crushing nuts and fruits with their large mandibles that clench together like a fist. They live in small flocks and communicate by short whistles and hums. And they manipulate their environment with their remarkably dexterous six legs.    

    And lastly the Ve-Z’qi, a Is a seafaring relative to the Ve-huik, they are a sapient species of flying arthropod analogs native to the many coastlines of Dorveko. They live in nomadic flocks, hopping from island to island. They hunt their aquatic prey by looking for disturbances in the water before diving in to catch their target     Their history is one defined by sheer first contact and a long road to equality. The Dor-Eø and the Ve-Z'qi,a were the pioneers of exploration due in part of their nomadic lifestyles giving them a global range to freely explore. Slowly each species would suddenly learn the existence of their contemporaries and how to work with them.     Their society is egalitarian and very xenophilic, each species is born with full citizenship and everyone regardless of origin and identity are treated truly equally. yet their government is surprisingly autocratic. Each planet is ruled by a handfull of philosopher kings and queens who come from all walks of life. And are chosen by the state based on their view of life and understanding of the humanities. All to improve the lives of their people. They are also very welcoming towards outsiders, and have made themselves a beacon of liberty and safety for the galaxy's downtrodded.     With so many different sapient minds at work in a society that promotes harmony and teamwork. The Ko-ve-dor Commonality has advanced rapidly, being able to become a spacefaring civilization a thousand years before mankind. Their architecture and spaceships are large and bulbous, containing vast aquariums and spacious domes to accommodate all the different lifestyles. And have become one of the Galactic Coalition of Worlds' most important members.     Depicted here is a human diplomat posing with a friend group eager to take a photo with an unfamiliar face.

I'm happy i managed to get this out before 2024, though there still maybe work to be done, mainly to expand on their worldbuilding, and i hope everyone else has a happy new year!

[nyaagolor]

What's going on with Nemona's wrist?

this is mostly just me putting down all my thoughts about this hc I have. Below the cut bc it's long as usual but read on if ur interested in like. orthopedics

I think Nemona has fatigue and some kind of wrist Issue because 1. She implies she has decreased motor function in that arm (can't throw pokeballs well, supports her arm with her other hand during battles) 2. She wears a brace 3. She gets winded easily / needs to catch her breath more than other characters / hates stairs So that got me wondering what the cause could be. I work in an orthopedic office and my shifts are 12 hours so sometimes when it's slow and I'm bored this is what my mind wanders to

Option 1: It's carpal tunnel and she's out of shape This is the most obvious answer since carpal tunnel is a repetitive stress injury and she's wearing a brace that looks almost identical to irl braces for that problem. Throwing pokeballs over and over, especially incorrectly, would be the most likely cause of an asymmetrical injury like that, and is actually reasonable for someone of her age and activity level. The winded thing is just because she's out of shape and has no underlying cause. Or maybe she just has some kinda chronic pain / fatigue disorder. That's not my department idk

Option 2: Oligoarticular JIA (juvenile idiopathic arthritis) This very long name is just describing chronic joint swelling in children that affects less than 5 joints. It's an autoimmune disease, and actually not that uncommon all things considered. It causes stiffness and pain, which would explain the stamina issues and motor skill issues. Plus, the constant flexion and extension of the knees from staircases certainly would explain her distaste for them in particular. That shit hurts. Occasionally people will use a brace for JIA-- it's highly unlikely her wrist would be the worst considering the typical presentation patterns (it usually affects bigger joints first like the knees) but hey. It's possible! This condition also affects young girls more often than other groups so. Math checks out

Option 3: Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hypermobility type) Figured I would include this bc I've seen a few people hc this and wanted to give it a fair shot myself. This is a heritable connective tissue disorder that causes hypermobile joints, chronic pain, fatigue, and a whole host of other things. Specifically tho, this disorder used to be called EDS type III and is now considered part of the Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders, but that's a can of worms for a post that's not this one. While the symptoms do match, and honestly quite well (a brace for stabilization makes perfect sense and the fatigue symptoms feel pretty on the nose) the disease usually causes very stretchy skin and vascular issues that she doesn't seem to have so I'm a tad on the fence

Option 4: Cervical spinal stenosis Despite this being the first thing that came to mind for me (since I see it a lot in the office) I'm now less convinced this would be the case. This disorder is basically a narrowing of the spinal canal that pinches the nerves in the neck. It can cause pain, weakness, numbing, and pain that radiates down the body. If most of the compression was on the C4 and C5 nerve I can see it affecting one arm / wrist especially rough (since the pain is typically bilateral but asymmetrical) but also this occurring in people under the age of 50 is SUPER rare so eh. It's possible it was congenital or caused by an injury but I wouldn't bet on it. As for the stamina issues, the neurological issues caused by the compression would likely be the cause of that, especially radiating down the back and legs. Felt worth it to include even if I'm not 100% convinced

I'm saying "options" here bc these symptoms are super vague and there's like 80 billion things that could cause it, I'm just racking my brain for different possibilities. If anyone has other hcs for the underlying causes of Her Whole Deal lmk I'm curious

[deathlysilent13]

DPxDC Fic Snippet: Host Club Danny

(Before we get going: this is not a Mature rated story. Genuine Host clubs/Hostess clubs have very little, if any, physical interaction and it is absolutely not sexual. Ouran High School Host Club is inaccurate, though I did draw from a tiny bit of that, as well. Basics to note: Danny co-owns the club with Harvey Dent, and very, very rarely works the floor, but when Harvey's friend's kids need a safe space, is there really any one else can can be trusted? Also, another Bad Fenton Parent story, though that isn't really more than background here.)

They reach for the food at the same time, dishing samplings of the cooking. “There’s so many things I want to throw at you,” Tim murmurs, staring down at his bruschetta, “but that NDA definitely threw me off. Don’t bother, I texted Damian, he’s already confirmed it’s damn near identical to the one he signed. You’re actually that serious about not breaking confidence, aren’t you?” 

Danny nods, digging into the caprese salad. “Our guests come to be heard without judgment, to slough off the woes of the world for a moment. That can’t happen if they have to be on edge wondering what we’re going to tattle about, whether they’re going to be Miss Vale’s latest story.” He pins Tim with a sharp look, because one of the Wayne siblings had, in fact, been in the news that morning. 

Tim grimaces. “Yeah, that’s Dick for you,” he grumbles. “Man grew up in the circus and despite living in Gotham as long as he has, he still hates being on the ground.” 

Danny smirks. He’s been told about two of the chandelier incidents. From the look on Tim’s face, he sees it, because the man just groans again. 

They get through the appetizers, and Danny’s setting Tim’s entree in front of him before he speaks again. “So, since I can’t ask about my brother,” Tim starts, pointing a fork at him, “the hell was with the bilateral NDA? Why would something like that be necessary?” 

Danny settles back in his chair, making sure he’s still outwardly calm. “Because you’re not the only one with more than one face,” he answers simply as he tucks into his mushroom risotto with truffle oil. 

Tim blinks, filet mignon halfway to his mouth. “I genuinely can’t tell what that means,” he says almost accusingly as he finally bites into his dinner. 

Danny gives him a moment to savor. “It means everything said in this room is safe, no matter how dangerous it may be elsewhere,” he answers, keeping things simple. He won��t verify anything just yet, but honestly he has a sneaking suspicion that Tim’s enjoying the attention. 

The man narrows his eyes, staring at Danny through two more bites. Instead of firing another question at Danny, however, he pulls out his phone and stares at it like it personally offended him. “What the hell did he tell you?” the man mutters, though mostly to himself. 

Danny sips his chardonnay. “He told me what he needed to,” he says. “The point is to provide a safe space to let things off the chest. You have a copy of the NDA.” The last is a reminder, and one that has Tim’s eyes widening before narrowing. 

Danny can’t help his smirk, which just makes Tim scowl. “What? You wanna talk about the years I spent alone in a house my parents couldn’t bother to heat while they were traipsing all over the country without me?” he asks sharply, though Danny can see scars long healed in his words. “Or about taking on a responsibility I never asked for because my hero had died and the city’s protector was going to kill someone if things didn’t change? The attempt on my life someplace I was supposed to be safe for trying to fill shoes I knew from the beginning were beyond me?”

Danny blinks, watching Tim rapidly approaching a breakdown. He’s pieced some of it together since learning that Damian was Robin, that Tim was before him. He doesn’t have everything, though. He manages not to sigh, wondering how many times he’s going to tell this family his own story to work around their blocks. So he does, telling him exactly what he’d told Damian about his accident, the portal, and his parents. Tim’s eyes go wider and wider as Danny continues, and he can see that the reason for the NDA sinks home. 

Tim, thankfully, is just about done with his food, because it’s forgotten. “What the fuck,” he says hollowly. “You…..your parents?” Danny just nods. 

Tim’s hand rakes through his hair. Danny watches him stare into his pinot noir. “I never wanted the cape,” he whispers. Danny can hear the confession, the secret he’s terrified to speak. “The second Robin had been killed by the Joker, Batman was losing it. Getting rougher, breaking bones for even petty crime. I’d been chasing them for years, watching. He’d caught me once, that Robin.” He pauses here, his face falling into a despondent sort of fondness. “I’d slipped off a fire escape and he was just there. Closest thing to a friend I had, and honestly if things had been different I might have loved him. I needed to help Batman, needed to get him back to the man my Robin believed in.” His breath hitches. 

Danny sits quietly, letting him talk. He doesn’t much like the picture being painted. “The failure of an adult is not a child’s burden,” he says quietly. “You should never have had to make that choice.” 

[mariacallous]

Going to prison for two years was the last thing I thought would happen to me when I signed up to be a Peace Corps Volunteer in Poland shortly after the Berlin Wall fell. But according to a bilateral agreement between Washington and Warsaw, the U.S. would pay my pitiful 235 dollars per month salary while my Polish hosts had to provide housing.

At that time, the city government of Kielce, Poland still had many avowed communists and remained wary of Americans, so they insisted on housing me in the infamous Kielce prison, where hundreds of Jews were killed by the Nazis during World War II and then hundreds of Polish patriots were killed under the Soviets.

I was the only one living in eerie abandoned cellblocks. There was a guard posted downstairs — for my protection, I was assured, not to keep tabs on me.

Over my two years working as an engineer in Kielce and living in the prison, I came to admire the Polish people for what they have become now — America´s best and most reliable ally. Indeed the Poles have stood with us from the Revolutionary War to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Tadeusz Kosciuszko, the incredible Polish military engineer who volunteered to come to our rescue in our Revolutionary war. is a personal hero of mine.

If Kosciuszko had thought like Donald Trump and regarded our war for independence as a faraway waste of time and money, as Donald Trump regards Ukraine´s war for independence, the United States might have very well lost the war and never achieved freedom.

Kamala for president

That is why as a lifelong Republican I am supporting Kamala Harris for president. She will stand with Poland in the face of ongoing Russian aggression against Poland and Ukraine.

Keep in mind that Poland has had Russian missiles traverse its airspace on their way to strike Ukraine. Every day, Poland faces Russian hybrid war tactics such as sophisticated Russian cyber attacks targeting key Polish military and civilian cyber infrastructure.

Because Poland is a NATO member, it is looking for a U.S. leader who will stand in solidarity with them — not pull vital military support for its strategic ally Ukraine with a so-called “America First” policy that cedes American leadership in Europe to the Russians. Because that is what is at stake in this election and it is paramount for all of Pennsylvania´s 800,000 Polish-Americans to understand and acknowledge that.

Working as an engineer in Poland provided me with valuable work experience that I leveraged to start a small steel engineering business in New Hampshire whereby I have worked in western Pennsylvania in places like Steelton. I have gotten to know and work with Polish-Americans, who have a special place in my heart and who often appreciate my Polish prison stories.

Important for me, as someone who served in Afghanistan and Iraq alongside Poles, is having your battle buddy´s back when they need you. That nation has had America’s back for over two centuries. Kamala Harris is the only candidate who will have Poland´s back.

[workersolidarity]

🇨🇳🇷🇺 RUSSIAN PRESIDENT VLADIMIR PUTIN MEETS WITH CHINESE PRESIDENT XI JINPING AT THIRD BELT AND ROAD INITIATIVE FORUM

Russian President Vladimir Putin met with Chinese President Xi Jinping Wednesday for the third Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation held in Beijing.

As the host country, Republic of China President Xi Jinping spoke first, thanking the Russian President and pointing to the implementation of the agreements and celebrating record trade between the two countries, which is approaching $200 Billion this year.

"Mr President, during the ten years since 2013, the two of us have held 42 meetings and established good business-like relations and a strong personal friendship" President Xi said.

"Mutual trust in our political relations is steadily growing. Close and effective strategic collaboration is being maintained. Bilateral trade has achieved historic records and is approaching the target of $200 billion we have set."

After the opening ceremony of the forum, President Xi Jinping introduced Russian President Vladimir Putin, who spoke at the Belt & Road Forum.

The Russian President thanked President Xi for his invitation and congratulated the Chinese President on the 74th Anniversary of the establishment of the People's Republic of China.

"Next year will be an anniversary year for both your country and the diplomatic relations between our countries. On October 2, 1949, the next day after the establishment of the PRC, the USSR was the first to recognise the new China" President Putin said to the Chinese President in his speech.

President Putin pointed to the Chinese President's visit in March, saying this was a special sign indicating the close "level and nature" of relations between the People's Republic of China and the Russian Federation.

"One and a half years after my last visit, all of us, our large delegation, are in Beijing again. We can see that the city is developing and prospering, and we are very glad for our Chinese friends," President Putin told the Chinese leader.

"Your idea of promoting wide-ranging cooperation between the countries of the historical Silk Road, which was put forward ten years ago, has gained momentum."

President Putin further told President Xi that although plans are being designed and implemented, the nations involved may be unsure how a project will turn out, however China, under the leadership of President Xi Jinping, is always highly successful in its endeavors, and he thanked the Chinese President for their collaboration, saying all parties gain from the arrangement.

President Putin went on to promote the initiatives of the Belt and Road programme, pointing to the Chinese President's ideas, which Putin described as intended to benefit the whole of mankind and wished the Chinese President success in this noble undertaking.

"Under the difficult present-day conditions, it is particularly relevant to maintain close foreign policy coordination, something we are doing now. Today, we will discuss all of this, including, and primarily, our bilateral relations."

President Putin finished by saying, "You have just mentioned our bar – our objective of reaching $200 billion in trade this year. If we look at the year-on-year figures – we analysed this yesterday evening – the 200-billion target was reached between this day a year ago and today, and this bar will certainly be exceeded by the end of the calendar year. Therefore, we are advancing very confidently on the bilateral plane as well."

The Russian President then thanked his Chinese counterpart before the official Forum began, after which the Russian President spoke at length about cooperation between the two powers.

During his remarks at the Forum, President Putin told the audience that the essence of the Belt and Road Initiative is to "promote creative and constructive interaction" throughout the international community.

"We pointed out on numerous occasions that Russia and China, just as the majority of other countries, share the striving for equal and mutually beneficial cooperation towards universal, sustainable and lasting economic progress and social welfare based on respect for the civilisational diversity and the right of every state to its own development model," President Putin said in his speech.

President Putin went on, "The Belt and Road initiative is based on these fundamental principles and fits in very well with the integration processes that are ongoing in many regions. It also corresponds to the Russian ideas of creating an integration contour that will ensure the freedom of trade, investment and employment and will be complemented with interconnected infrastructure."

President Putin said the Belt and Road programme meshes well with the Russian idea of creating greater Eurasian partnership, expanding cooperation and interaction between like-minded nations and the integration of multilateral organizations like the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU), which Russia is successfully developing with its post-Soviet partners.

President Putin further emphasized new agreements between the Russian Federation and the People's Republic of China on the development of the EAEU and Belt and Road programme, along with a non-preferential agreement on trade and economic cooperation between the EAEU and China. To this end, a joint commission was established to "align our efforts to implement this agreement."

"In February 2023, we adopted an expanded roadmap, which provides, in part, for the development of relations between the EAEU and China in trade policy and the digitisation of transport corridors," President Putin said.

The Russian leader further noted the importance of the initiatives, saying they were an, "integral part of Russia’s national development strategy, the strengthening of our economic, technological and financial sovereignty, as well as the modernisation and expansion of infrastructure."

The Russian President told audiences he believes the Belt and Road Initiatives were very important to participating countries and pointed to the expansive Russian territories for enhancing the connectivity between the Russian Federation and its partners.

The Russian President mentioned the various infrastructure projects being implemented through the Belt and Road, telling the audience that, taken together, the projects will allow participants to create an "integral transport and logistics network" and to "diversify freight traffic through more effective, reliable and safe" transportation.

"For example, we are building the North-South international corridor in European Russia, which President Xi has mentioned. It will connect Russian ports on the Baltic and Arctic seas to ports in the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean. Seamless rail connectivity, as professionals say, will be ensured throughout this route, from Murmansk in the north of Russia to Bandar Abbas in Iran," President Putin said.

"Another north-south transport artery will run via the Urals region and Siberia. Its main elements are the modernisation of the central part of the Trans-Siberian Railway, including the West-Siberian Railway line running across several regions of Siberia, namely the Omsk, Novosibirsk, Kemerovo and Tomsk regions and the Altai Territory. The other elements are the construction of the Northern Latitudinal Railway, as we call it, towards the ports on the Arctic Ocean and the Yamal Peninsula in the north of the Krasnoyarsk Territory, and a new North Siberian Railway from the Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Area towards our largest railway network comprising the Trans-Siberian Railway and Baikal-Amur Mainline."

After the initial speeches and meetings, President Xi Jinping of China and Russian President Vladimir Putin will meet on the sidelines to further discuss trade, economic cooperation, as well as the global and regional situation. The Russian delegation included a large number of senior officials, including the Vice Premier, representatives of the Foreign Ministry, Economic Development agencies, as well as representatives from the Transportation and Finance departments.

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@WorkerSolidarityNews

[marwahstudios]

ICMEI Bids Farewell to Myanmar Ambassador H.E. U Moe Kyaw Aung with Deep Gratitude for Cultural Contributions

Noida: A heartfelt farewell was extended to H.E. U Moe Kyaw Aung, the esteemed Ambassador of Myanmar to India, during a special event hosted at Hotel Radisson Blu. Dr. Sandeep Marwah, President of the International Chamber of Media and Entertainment Industry (ICMEI), expressed warm words of appreciation, saying, “Farewell, my talented friend! Your future colleagues are fortunate to have you, and we will sorely miss your invaluable contributions here in India.”

The event, organized by Gaurav Gupta, President of the Global Trade and Technology Council of India (GTTCI), gathered diplomats, ambassadors, and prominent figures from various sectors to celebrate the ambassador’s impactful tenure. H.E. U Moe Kyaw Aung, who has been a staunch advocate of fostering cultural diplomacy between India and Myanmar, was recognized for his unwavering commitment to enhancing bilateral relations between the two nations.

One of the most notable accomplishments during his time as Ambassador was the creation of the Indo-Myanmar Film and Cultural Forum, a pioneering initiative under ICMEI. This forum has been instrumental in promoting rich cultural exchanges, film collaborations, and other artistic endeavors between the two countries. Dr. Marwah commended the Ambassador for his visionary approach, stating, “The Indo-Myanmar Film and Cultural Forum stands as a testament to your dedication to building bridges between our nations through art and culture.”

[qnewsau]

Wheelchair Motocross champ's message to his queer community

New Post has been published on https://qnews.com.au/wheelchair-motocross-champ-has-poignant-message-for-his-queer-community/

Wheelchair Motocross champ's message to his queer community

When he’s not pulling backflips in the skate bowl in his Wheelchair Motocross (WCMX) wheelchair, you’ll find occupational therapist Tim Lachlan teaching others advanced mobility skills so they can overcome access barriers in daily life.

Using his WCMX wheelchair, the 27-year-old can hop up or down curbs to enter a shop, go up and down stairs, and traverse rough terrain and steep slopes, places you wouldn’t expect a wheelchair could go.

“I started the initiative to get people involved in WCMX after I finished high school, as I wanted to share my skills with people so they don’t have to rely on wheelchair access and can go where they desire and do what they want,” Tim said.

Since beginning wheelchair skateboarding, Tim has progressed through to bigger ramps and tricks, and in 2016 became the first Australian to land a wheelchair backflip.

“The feeling of surfing concrete waves is so freeing. When skating, I’m not focusing on my chronic pain; I’m focusing on the feeling of carving the bowl,” he said.

The Holmview local, who has spina bifida and Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, said he realised the therapeutic potential of Wheelchair Motocross and adaptive skating after sustaining a mild traumatic brain injury in 2018, which impacted his balance and motor coordination.

“I improved my balance and bilateral coordination by doing exercises such as standing on a skateboard on the carpet with my crutches and working up to standing on a board and propelling with crutches, something I couldn’t do pre-injury,” he said.

Tim, who recently established the Australian branch of WCMX and Adaptive Skate, is passionate about helping others and regularly hosts free WCMX mobility skills workshops at Pizzey Skatepark on the Gold Coast.

“Workshops are semi-structured and provide an opportunity for mobility aid users to increase their skills in a supportive and fun environment,” he said.

“We adapt each workshop to the needs of our attendees and the skills they would like to learn. I hope to see more people with disabilities in skateparks having fun on their wheels in the future.”

Tim also offers occupational therapy (OT) at the skate park and uses adaptive skating as a tool to teach his clients life changing mobility skills.

“Being a disabled OT is incredibly rewarding, I can connect with my clients and understand their needs on a much more personal level,” Tim said.

“In the professional world, I am helping change my fellow OT’s perception of disabilities and what we can achieve.”

Tim, who identifies as queer and neurodivergent, was supported by Carers Queensland to access the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) and said he now receives the supports he needs to achieve his life goals.

“Growing up with invisible disabilities was tough; it took me 10-plus years to get a concrete diagnosis. Finally, having my disabilities recognised and receiving the support I’ve needed for so long is incredible,” Tim said.

Tim is also part of Carers Queensland’s Beyond the Sidelines reference group and is one of nine people with disability helping the organisation to increase participation and representation of people with disability in sport and recreation on and off the field.

The young Wheelchair Motocross athlete also has some firm views on the lack of accessibility in South East Queensland ahead of the 2032 Paralympics.

“The folks in charge of infrastructure for Brisbane 2032 need a week where they all use manual wheelchairs to navigate the city, accommodation, public transport and tourist attractions so they can gain first-hand experience of the access barriers people will face if we don’t improve access,” Tim said.

“Accessibility won’t just benefit wheelchair users, it will benefit parents with prams, older folks with mobility aids and make bumping in and out for 2032 run much smoother.

“In short, almost everyone can use a ramp, but not everyone can use stairs.”

Tim said he would love to see all the sporting facilities, pathways and public transport sites that will be used during 2032 revamped to be accessible, and not just accessible to wheelchair users, but to all people with disabilities.

“Make sure all the tactile indicators are installed correctly and that all crossing buttons make an audible tone,” he said.

“I would also love to see advertisement campaigns displaying disabled athletes as strong and capable, instead of objects of inspiration.

“I want society to know that people with disability can do anything they put their mind to. We deserve to have any many sporting opportunities as other people in the community.”

As for the rainbow community of which he’s a proud part of, Tim has a poignant message.

“My message to the queer community is always assume competency,” he said.

“So often people with disabilities are excluded from the queer community because there is this false assumption that we aren’t sexual beings or that we can’t be sexual.

“How we mobilise or communicate may be different, but we just want to be loved and understood.

“Give us a chance and let us show you our wonderful, queer, wheelie world!”

Carers Queensland can support you to find out more about the NDIS, to apply for funding and to help you get started with the NDIS. If you have a disability but are not eligible for the NDIS, Carers Queensland can help you identify and link to options for support in your community.

You can also contact Carers Queensland on 1300 999 636, or cq.enquiries@ndis.gov.au

For the latest LGBTIQA+ Sister Girl and Brother Boy news, entertainment, community stories in Australia, visit qnews.com.au. Check out our latest magazines or find us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

[thehungrykat1]

Embassy of Canada in the Philippines Holds Savour Nova Scotia Seafood Dinner

The Embassy of Canada in the Philippines recently held a special four-course dinner featuring specialty seafood and wines from the Province of Nova Scotia. This exclusive by-invitation only event was hosted by none other than the Ambassador of Canada to the Philippines, His Excellency David Hartman, with Canada and the Philippines celebrating 75 years of bilateral diplomatic relations this year.

The Savour Nova Scotia Seafood Dinner was held at the Official Residence of the Ambassador of Canada to the Philippines inside Dasmariñas Village in Makati last February 21, 2024. The Hungry Kat was invited once again by the Embassy to be one of their media guests so I was more than happy to visit and have my first taste of Nova Scotia seafood and cuisine.

More than 40 guests from the Philippine government, business sector, and the culinary industry attended the special event that brought together suppliers, importers, wine connoisseurs, and food and beverage experts to showcase the many quality products available from Nova Scotia.

We were happy to see some of our friends from the industry like celebrity chef Sharwin Tee and Trade Commissioner Louise Pasadilla from the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines. I was also excited to see Trade Commissioner Angel Cachuela who I have known for a long time.

Guest were greeted at the start of the evening with a welcome drink called the PhilScotian Sour. This was a specially-curated cocktail made with Nova Scotia's Glenora Distillery 12-Year Single Malt Whiskey, Philippines mangoes, and calamansi. It was quite refreshing and a good start to the evening's festivities. Lobster Canapés with housemade brioche, chives, and caviar were also served.

I also met the evening's guest of honor. The dinner was organized on the occasion of the visit of Nova Scotia’s Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, the Honorable Kent Smith. Nova Scotia is located at the edge of North America and the mouth of the Atlantic Ocean, making its waters cold, clean, and pure. As a result, their seafood catch is always fresh and is of the highest quality.

The program started with His Excellency David Hartman making his opening remarks and welcoming all the guests to the Savour Nova Scotia Seafood Dinner. “Tonight’s dinner symbolizes the strong people-to-people ties that bind our countries together and the great things we can accomplish when we work together. There is a growing population of Filipinos living in Nova Scotia, and we are so proud to know that this vibrant community is thriving in beautiful Nova Scotia and across the country," said Ambassador Hartman.

The Honorable Kent Smith also took to the stage for his remarks. “Nova Scotia seafood has earned a global reputation for freshness, quality, and great taste. We were pleased to share our premium-quality products during the recent Asia mission. This was also an opportunity to celebrate the relationship between Canada and the Philippines and for Nova Scotia companies to build on these existing ties and explore new opportunities in the global market,” said Minster Smith. Nova Scotia is Canada's number one seafood exporter, exporting to over 60 countries. Nova Scotia's dedication to food safety, innovation, and sustainability is driven by a commitment to quality at every step along the value chain.

Ambassador of the Philippines to Canada Maria Andrelita S. Austria was also present an flew over to the country just for this special event. The dinner also celebrated new milestones between Nova Scotia and the Philippines, including the Province’s Joint Declaration of Intent with the Department of Migrant Workers focusing on the mobility of workers from the Philippines to Nova Scotia and NSCC’s new partnership with World Citi Colleges on healthcare education.

An array of seafood, wines, and wild blueberries were all flown in from Atlantic Canada and took the spotlight in the exclusive four-course dinner. Bread baskets were placed on the table consisting of malunggay pandesal, mini baguette and grissini plus whipped butter.

Chef Thomas Carey of the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) and Chef Joseph Gomez, the Executive Chef of the Embassy of Canada and of De La Salle-College of Saint Benilde (DLS-CSB), took turns introducing each course that showcased the quality of Nova Scotia’s seafood. The dinner showcased the special collaboration between NSCC and DLS-CSB that began with the first Philippines-Canada Virtual Culinary Cup in 2021, organized by the Embassy of Canada, Les Toques Blanches Chefs Association in the Philippines, and the World Food Expo organizers. DLS-CSB culinary students helped prepare this special fusion dinner.

Our first course was the Nova Scotia Whelk and Snow Crab Kombucha Squash Custard. The whelk and snow crab are prepared with spinach, Pernod cream, steamed kombucha squash, custard, and tarragon oil.

I was not really familiar with whelk and Nova Scotia seafood in general, so it was a good that I was seated with Derrick Kennedy, Sales Director of Louisbourg Seafood Limited and one of the featured supplies during the event. The whelk is actually a big snail, much bigger that the ones served on French escargots, so it was quite a unique experience eating these exotic seafood items.

Next we had the Seared Fish and Crab Cappellacci. This is made with a pan-seared red ocean perch which is a local Nova Scotia fish. The Jonah crab is also a local crab that is unique to that region. These were cooked with coconut-lemongrass curry, mushroom adobo, and heirloom tomatoes.

To make the dinner even more captivating, each course was paired with Nova Scotia wines and ciders from Blomidon Wines, Benjamin Bridge, Bulwark Ciders and Lightfoot and Wolfville.

Our third course is a fusion of Nova Scotia and Filipino ingredients. This beautiful Bay Leaf Poached Lobster Tail sits on top of crispy potato cake made with Benguet potatoes grown from Atlantic Canadian seed potatoes, then doused with rich bearnaise sauce. I just loved the plump and juicy lobster meat which was highlighted further by the bearnaise sauce.

For our dessert course, we had the Petite Blueberry Charlotte which is a combination of lemon cheesecake, blueberry confiture, ginger chocolate crunch, and burnt butter pecan ice cream. We even got to sample some wild blueberries from Nova Scotia which were used for these sweet desserts.

We would like to thank the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines, most specially His Excellency David Hartman, for hosting the Savour Nova Scotia Seafood Dinner. The dinner was a great way to discover and experience Nova Scotia seafood and Filipinos really should have more access to their wonderful selection of export-quality products. The next time you visit the supermarket and grocery, check out the imported seafood section and you may find some of the best items there from Nova Scotia.

Savour Nova Scotia Seafood Dinner

www.nsseafood.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NSseafood

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Canembph

Instagram: @NSSeafood

#NSSeafood #CdnAg #CdnAgPH

[castlefly]

TRANS PRIDE!!! behold lepe my son

[georgemcginn]

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin Hosted Bilateral in Honor of His Exc ellency Rustem Umerov, Minister of Defence for Ukraine at the Pentagon

View Online Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin Hosted Bilateral in Honor of His Excellency Rustem Umerov, Minister of Defence for Ukraine at the Pentagon Dec. 7, 2023 SECRETARY OF DEFENSE LLOYD J. AUSTIN III: Minister Umerov, Rustem, welcome back to the Pentagon. I had a great visit to Kyiv two weeks ago, and it’s good to see you again so soon, especially on Ukraine’s Armed Forces Day. During my…

[thxnews]

UK Foreign Secretary's Bahrain Visit

Strengthening Bilateral Ties and Commitment to Gulf Stability

It’s a pleasure to be back in Bahrain. Indeed, I was saying to our Ambassador, and indeed Bahrain’s excellent ambassador to London, Sheikh Fawaz, for over the last few years has become home away from home; according to my wife is it my home, and I see her occasionally. But this is an incredible country. A country that has really demonstrated – as it’s doing so again today - its convening power.  

A Second Home in Bahrain

Expressing joy in returning to Bahrain, the Foreign Secretary acknowledges the country's significance as a second home. He appreciates the incredible convening power of Bahrain, highlighting its role as a diplomatic hub.   Commending Ambassador Sheikh Fawaz In recognizing the excellent ambassadorial work, special mention is given to Sheikh Fawaz for fostering strong ties between the UK and Bahrain. Since then – since my last visit to Bahrain – the bilateral relationship has grown even stronger, including the visit that we celebrated His Royal Highness Prince Salman’s visit in July. More recently, I’m proud to say that the two countries – the United Kingdom and Bahrain – have elevated our exchanges to our first strategic dialogue, which I had the honor to co-chair with my dear friend, his Excellency Dr Al Zayani in London. May I, therefore, thank the Kingdom of Bahrain for hosting us today for another important and timely event.  

Deepening Bilateral Relations

Reflecting on the strengthened ties, the Foreign Secretary highlights the growth in the bilateral relationship, including the first strategic dialogue co-chaired with Bahrain's Dr Al Zayani. The acknowledgment extends to the celebration of His Royal Highness Prince Salman’s visit in July.   Gratitude to Bahrain's Hostship Expressing gratitude, the Foreign Secretary thanked the Kingdom of Bahrain for hosting the UK delegation for another significant and timely event. And I assure you the UK delegation here is in strength. They say you normally have one Lord; I can certainly look across this room and see several more: Lord Sedwill, Lord Maud, as well as other parliamentarians and business leaders are here, demonstrating the United Kingdom’s commitment to Bahrain; but also, importantly, the region.  

UK's Strong Delegation

Emphasizing the strength of the UK delegation, the Foreign Secretary notes the presence of multiple Lords, including Lord Sedwill and Lord Maud. This presence demonstrates the United Kingdom's commitment not only to Bahrain but also to the broader region.   Parliamentary and Business Commitment Acknowledging the representation of parliamentarians and business leaders, the Foreign Secretary underscores the importance of the UK's commitment to Bahrain and the wider region. Last year, when the then Foreign Secretary addressed you, he spoke in glowing terms about the transformation of the region; but also, importantly, of the threats that continue to face the region, indeed all of us.  

Reflections on the Region's Transformation

Recalling the previous Foreign Secretary's address, the Foreign Secretary acknowledges the positive transformation of the region. However, he highlights the persistent threats facing the region and its inhabitants.   Addressing Ongoing Threats Underlining the importance of addressing ongoing threats, the Foreign Secretary emphasizes the need for collective efforts to safeguard the region's stability. In this context, Bahrain has shown, under His Majesty’s vision, continued leadership on peaceful coexistence and regional security. We have seen the benefit of the Gulf region’s approach to foreign policy over the last year, including efforts to end the conflict in Sudan, hosting Ukrainian peace talks, and, most recently, bringing the Arab world together in response to the crisis that we are all facing up to today in Israel, across Gaza and the West Bank. These efforts have reconfirmed what we already knew: that you remain a vital partner now and in the future.  

Bahrain's Leadership in Peaceful Coexistence

Commending Bahrain's leadership under His Majesty’s vision, the Foreign Secretary appreciates the nation's commitment to peaceful coexistence and regional security.   Gulf Region's Diplomatic Initiatives Highlighting the Gulf region's diplomatic endeavors, the Foreign Secretary points to efforts in ending the conflict in Sudan, hosting Ukrainian peace talks, and uniting the Arab world in responding to the current crisis in Israel. And as we’ve heard from the Secretary-General and His Royal Highness in his detailed sense of experience over the years, we together face a daunting set of challenges. And in this regard let me be absolutely clear: we, the United Kingdom, remain a reliable and committed partner for the region in responding to the challenges and availing the opportunities that lie in front of us.  

Unified Response to Challenges

Acknowledging the challenges ahead, the Foreign Secretary emphasizes the United Kingdom's unwavering commitment to being a reliable and committed partner in addressing regional challenges and opportunities.   UK's Pledge to the Region Reiterating the commitment, the Foreign Secretary pledges the United Kingdom's support in responding to challenges and seizing opportunities in collaboration with the region. A partner working to constrain Iranian weapons proliferation and the destabilizing activity of Iran and its aligned groups that are responsible for much instability across the region and further afield; a partner also holding Tehran to account for its escalatory nuclear program.  

UK as a Partner for Stability

The Foreign Secretary outlines the UK's role as a partner dedicated to curbing Iranian weapons proliferation and countering destabilizing activities in the region. Further emphasizing the commitment, the Foreign Secretary highlights the UK's role in holding Tehran accountable for its escalatory nuclear program. A partner working together with other key partners in the region for security and peace in Yemen, in Libya.  

Collaborative Efforts for Regional Security

Detailing collaborative efforts, the Foreign Secretary points to the UK's role in working with key partners for security and peace in Yemen and Libya. Highlighting the importance of a multilateral approach, the Foreign Secretary underscores the collaborative efforts of the UK and key partners in maintaining security and peace in the region. A partner for prosperity with, and between, the nations of the Gulf.  

Prosperity Partnerships in the Gulf

Focusing on economic partnerships, the Foreign Secretary positions the UK as a partner for prosperity, fostering collaborations among the Gulf nations. Underlining the economic dimension, the Foreign Secretary emphasizes the UK's commitment to fostering prosperity through collaborative efforts and economic growth in the Gulf. And a partner working to support this region’s transition to net zero, that will help avert the most disastrous impacts of climate change that threaten the Gulf – indeed the world.  

Transition to Net Zero: A Global Imperative

Addressing climate change, the Foreign Secretary positions the UK as a partner working towards supporting the region's transition to net zero. Emphasizing the global significance, he underscores the need to avert the disastrous impacts of climate change threatening the Gulf and the world. Highlighting the urgency, the Foreign Secretary emphasizes the collaborative effort needed to mitigate climate change and its potentially catastrophic effects on the Gulf and the world. I say all of this because, despite and notwithstanding the importance and urgency of these and other challenges, it is natural, given the scale of the attack that occurred on Israel on the 7th of October, the scale of the suffering of innocent Palestinian civilians in the weeks since – that we are still seeing today – that our focus is on this region; on Gaza; on the Occupied Palestinian Territories; and the relationship between Israelis and Palestinians.  

Focus on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

Addressing the pressing concerns, the Foreign Secretary directs attention to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly the scale of the attack on Israel in October and the ongoing suffering of innocent Palestinian civilians. Emphasizing the humanitarian perspective, the Foreign Secretary acknowledges the scale of suffering in Gaza, the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and the strained relationship between Israelis and Palestinians. This ongoing conflict is not only a disaster for the region, it is a disaster for all of us: it is a disaster for our common humanity.  

Humanitarian Crisis: A Shared Catastrophe

Characterizing the conflict as a shared catastrophe, the Foreign Secretary emphasizes that the ongoing crisis is not only disastrous for the region but also for humanity as a whole. Underlining the shared responsibility, the Foreign Secretary calls for a unified response, recognizing the impact of the crisis on common humanity. The people of Gaza were already living under desperate conditions prior to this conflict; but now they are suffering more, without adequate food, water, and access to the most basic of services we all take for granted, and in constant fear of their own life; they deserve better from all of us – and I agree with you, your Royal Highness, it means a collective, collaborative effort.  

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

Detailing the dire situation, the Foreign Secretary highlights the worsening conditions in Gaza, with a lack of basic necessities and constant fear among the population. In agreement with the Royal Highness, the Foreign Secretary calls for a collective, collaborative effort to improve the situation and provide better conditions for the people of Gaza. It is also a disaster for the region and the world because conflict stokes division. It has led to alarming spikes of anti-Semitism; of Islamophobia; and yes, that has impacted my own country, the United Kingdom.  

Impact of Conflict: Division and Extremism

Addressing the broader consequences of conflict, the Foreign Secretary highlights how it fuels division and extremism, leading to alarming spikes in anti-Semitism and Islamophobia. Acknowledging the global ramifications, the Foreign Secretary discusses the impact on the United Kingdom, emphasizing the need to address these issues collectively. And therefore, if we do not work together, collectively, and collaboratively, this conflict will spread. These aren’t just words; these are alarming signals we are seeing. And we need to work together to stop this conflict from spreading.  

Preventing Escalation: Urgent Collaboration

Stressing the urgency, the Foreign Secretary warns against the potential spread of the conflict and calls for collective, collaborative efforts to prevent further escalation. Highlighting alarming signals, the Foreign Secretary emphasizes the need for immediate action to prevent the conflict from spreading. The regional and international fault lines we have worked so hard over many, many years to bridge will tragically reopen, and the progress I have spoken of will be undermined.  

Preserving International Progress

Expressing concern, the Foreign Secretary warns that without immediate action, the hard-earned progress in bridging regional and international fault lines will be tragically undermined. Underlining the fragility of diplomatic gains, the Foreign Secretary emphasizes the need to protect and preserve the progress achieved over many years. Therefore what to do? What should the international community be doing?  

International Response: Urgent Imperatives

Posing critical questions, the Foreign Secretary prompts a discussion on the role of the international community and outlines urgent imperatives. Offering a roadmap for action, the Foreign Secretary highlights the need for international collaboration and guidance in addressing the current crisis. Well, coming together; discussing; exchanging views; candid, open public discussions – yes. But private diplomacy and exchanges as well.  

Collaborative Discourse: Public and Private

Advocating for open dialogue, the Foreign Secretary underscores the importance of public discussions and encourages private diplomacy and exchanges among stakeholders. Stressing the need for comprehensive engagement, the Foreign Secretary highlights the importance of both public and private forums in addressing the crisis. All focused that in the immediate term, we must stem the bloodshed, and do all we can to provide aid and security as quickly as possible to all people.  

Immediate Focus: Stemming Bloodshed

Redirecting the focus, the Foreign Secretary emphasizes the immediate need to stem the bloodshed and provide swift aid and security to all affected individuals.   Urgent Humanitarian Response Highlighting the urgency, the Foreign Secretary emphasizes the immediate humanitarian response required to address the crisis and provide aid and security. Let me be clear, the UK has been very clear on this: that Israel had the right to defend itself against Hamas, against the act of terrorism that took place on the 7th of October.   Sources: THX News, Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office & Lord (Tariq) Ahmad of Wimbledon. Read the full article

[cryptonews256]

"Feel Happier When The Team Benefits From My Batting"- Axar Patel After Winning The Player Of The Series Award Against Sri Lanka

“Feel Happier When The Team Benefits From My Batting”- Axar Patel After Winning The Player Of The Series Award Against Sri Lanka

Indian Cricket Team registered a dominating victory against Sri Lanka in the 3rd T20I match. The Men in Blue won the match by 91 runs and sealed the series. The hosts are yet to lose a bilateral T20I Series against Sri Lanka in India which is quite a good feat. Suryakumar Yadav, the destructive right handed batter set the stage on fire by smashing a thunderstorm century against Sri Lanka. The…

[fixomnia-scribble]

OHH I haven't done this in ages n' ages!

Filename (also title): My Fortress Be (Call the Midwife, S2)

“There’s one more, Doctor. Looks like quite a clear case.”

He didn’t understand McGuinness’ quick glance at him until he looked again at the sheet. McGuinness had written the last entry in a more careful hand, perhaps after a pause to consider, or re-evaluate his findings.

Sister Bernadette (surname?). F, 33. No recent RI. 10+ lesions, bilateral dispersion, 1/16” to ½”. Referred.

His first reaction was utterly predictable.

“Oh, but that wasn’t a proper screening. D'you remember, she was helping with that little girl. She must have got up too soon. She mightn't have been thinking about sitting still.”

“I took this maself, just like the rest. It’s as clear as any I’ve got. I’m sorry. I know you’re close with the Sisters.”

He could feel the blood leaving his face and turning him ashen gray.

No. Not you. Not you, too.

“But she’s well. Didn’t you see how well she looked?”

How often had he heard that tone in the voices of family members he’d just brought bad news?

“Aye, she looks well. That tells me we’re early and she’s a good shot to make a proper go of treatment. We’ll have to have all the Sisters and nurses done, too.” McGuinness paused and looked more closely into his face. “Oh, damn. I’m sorry, Turner. I didn’t know you cared quite so much for - ” He looked at a loss for a moment, having only the evidence of Sister Bernadette’s habit and Patrick’s wedding band to go by, and then his face cleared. “But of course, you and she are friends of old. Shall I tell her, then? Let me do that for you.”

“No…no, I’ll do it. We’re old friends, as you say. And I’m her GP. It should come from me. Thank you.” He cleared his throat. “Tell me, please, what you see. She’ll want to know every detail and what it might mean for the case.”

“I’m sure. She’s nae daft, is that one.”

“Brighter than either of us.”

Filename (also title): The Long Game (Lie to Me, S4?)

During his doctoral research years in Papua New Guinea, he’d gotten himself fairly hooked on the local pilli pilli pepper. It had a nice bright colour and the long taper of a classic hot capsicum. At first bite, it wasn’t overwhelmingly hot. The flavour burst pleasantly in the mouth with a sharp fruity tang and a dry aftertaste. 

But after two or three breaths…

Well, it was a sneaky one and no mistake. Memorable. His host family grinned appreciatively at his flushed English face, perspiration popping in his forehead, as he howled and fanned his mouth and reached for another bite. After the second bowlful of mutton and rice, he was addicted. He'd be searching for this back in America, or England, or wherever they ended up next, probably forever.

There was no reason he should have thought of that, the day after he met Gillian in her office for the first time.

WIP Wednesday Game

It’s WIP Wednesday, time for a little accountability, sharing your work, and getting a kick in the pants.

Here’s how it works:

In a reblog of this post (so people can find you in the notes) or new thread (w/ rules attached) if you want to play on your own, post up to five (5) filenames of your WIPs; not titles, file names.

Post a snippet from one of them. Snippet must be words you wrote in the last 7 days. We’re posting progress here. If you haven’t made any, go make some and come back to play!

After you’ve posted, people can send you an ask with one of your file names. You must then write 3 sentences in that file. If the filename is one you can't share from (for example, an event or gift fic), write 3 sentences on it anyway, and then 3 more on another to share.

That’s it! You can invite others to join in, or just post. I’ll be searching the reblogs to find people to send asks to!

If you’re reading this, you’re invited!

If you see someone posting a WIP Wednesday Game snippet, send them an ask! Make them write.

Requested/Friend event mentions under the cut! If you'd like to be pinged next week, let me know!

Friends @fiore-della-valle @redbirdblogs @greenbergsays @idkfandomwhatever @luckyspike

@obaewankenope @mad-madam-m @anonymousdandelion @geometricfractal @prettybirdy979

@eriquin | Requests @aparticularbandit @madnessfromthemountains @makeroftherunes @1attheedge

@whimsicalmeerkat @kidsomeday @lizhly-writes @skyderman @adhdavinci

@owlbearwrites @anachronismstellar @anyctibius @rilannon @lazinesswrites

@zyrafowe-sny @dreaminghour @blue-eyedbeta @candyskiez @dreamerking27

@kalira @virgulesmith @i-want-delfeur @selkies-world @exceedinglygayotter

[bogleech]

I'm writing a GURPS setting where a fungal apocalypse has forced humanity to live on the oceans, I need inspiration for incredibly weird or potentially frightening molds and fungi. What can you tell me about molds/fungi?

So almost everyone has heard of "cordyceps," but what a lot of people don't know is that's only one group of "zombifying" Entomopathogenic fungus; there are species of parasitic fungi for almost every kind of arthropod in the world, with all kinds of weird life cycles and strategies. One variety that affects cicadas eats away and replaces the entire genital region without killing the host, and they'll still try to mate, passing on the fungus like an STD that sterilizes whole populations!

There are also a host of PREDATORY fungi, which catch burrowing prey such as nematode worms using biological "snare traps!" They're just specialized loops of mycelium that inflate when something touches their inner edges:

But my favorite weird, sinister fungi are LABOULS, which @revretch knows a little more about! Labouls are weird because they're built more like some kind of animal than a fungus:

They grow on arthropods, usually beetles or flies, but unlike any other fungus, these are NOT just the external "mushroom" of a mycelium: each laboul is the entire fungus, self contained in a segmented, armored packet almost like a worm, and instead of feeding on the host through mycelia or "roots" each laboul penetrates the insect's body with a single, short little spike and actually feeds on its hemolymph, the "blood" of arthropoda. These are bloodsucking fungi.

Weirder still, while most fungi have many, many, many sexes distributed throughout their cell networks, a laboul is JUST a giant "female" fungal growth that does all the feeding and spore development with a teeny, tiny "male" growth sharing its nutrients. At the end of the female are little "triggers" that cause it to fire a sticky, arrow-like spore when touched, which is how they pass from one insect to another!

They're even bilaterally symmetrical! They really did evolve more animal-like than fungus-like. Also gun-like. They're bloodsucking fungus cannons.

[beardedmrbean]

President Biden appeared to mock reporters as they shouted questions at him during a meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog at the White House on Wednesday.

Biden hosted the Israeli president to announce a new agreement between Israel and Lebanon during a bilateral meeting in Washington. At the conclusion of the meeting, both leaders, who were seated opposite each other, turned their attention to reporters in the back of the room. The two men sat in silence as a raucous press corps shouted questions at them.

Biden could be seen imitating reporters, raising his eyebrows and moving his mouth to silently mimic talking. The president was also seen laughing and slapping his knee before reporters were escorted out of the room.

Bloomberg White House correspondent Nancy Cook vented on Twitter moments earlier that the White House has been "particularly intent" on keeping the press away from Biden with November's midterms just days away.

"The Biden WH seems *particularly intent* on the press not asking any [questions] of POTUS 14 days out from the midterms, w/WH aides screaming in the faces of reporters who try to ask Biden q's following each event today," she wrote.

While the question-shouting practice is common for public appearances involving the president, Biden has expressed his frustration with the dynamic in the past.

After Biden concluded remarks at an event in early October, he appeared to subtly snipe at the assembled press as they shouted questions at him while being escorted out of the room.

"[You're] among the only press in the world that does this," Biden was heard saying.

Biden has been accused of acting hostile toward the press on multiple occasions throughout his presidency. 

He often talks down to members of the press, has called a female reporter a "kid," referred to NBC News' Kelly O'Donnell as a "pain in the neck" in the Oval Office for a question about a vaccine mandate and once called Fox News' Peter Doocy a "stupid son of a b----." 

Biden also snapped at a reporter in June when he was asked about economists warning of a possible recession.

"Not the majority of them aren’t saying that. Come on, don’t make things up, OK? Now you sound like a Republican politician," Biden said. "I’m joking, that was a joke." 

Last year, Biden scolded CNN's Kaitlan Collins when she suggested he was confident Russian President Vladimir Putin might change his malign behavior. 

Biden, who was walking away from a press conference, whirled around at Collins and said, "I'm not confident he'll change his behavior. What in the hell, what do you do all the time?" _______

I'm gonna go ahead and throw my hat in on the side of mocking the press regardless of which party is doing it