#public outreach initiative

[townpostin]

Government Outreach Program Set to Launch in East Singhbhum

15-day camp to connect eligible residents with state welfare schemes East Singhbhum to host ‘Aapki Yojana Aapki Sarkar Aapke Dwar’ program from August 30 to September 15. JAMSHEDPUR – East Singhbhum District Magistrate Ananya Mittal announced a 15-day welfare program starting August 30. The ‘Aapki Yojana Aapki Sarkar Aapke Dwar’ initiative aims to link eligible residents with state government…

[howdoesone]

How does one convince a Sumatran Rhino to play hide and seek in the rainforest?

The Sumatran rhinoceros (Dicerorhinus sumatrensis) is one of the most endangered large mammals in the world, with fewer than 80 individuals remaining in the wild. These magnificent creatures, native to the dense tropical forests of Indonesia and Malaysia, are known for their elusive nature and solitary habits. Imagining a Sumatran rhino playing hide and seek in the rainforest is a whimsical and…

[zankalony]

Empowering Change: 5 Ways to Positively Impact Your Local Community

Discover the potential of collective effort and learn how to create a lasting impact within your community. Introduction Our communities play a crucial role in shaping our lives, experiences, and well-being. They are the foundation of our support systems and provide us with connections and resources that contribute to our personal growth. As a result, it’s essential to engage in initiatives…

[bucktommypositivityproject]

Fundraiser Launched

Hello Bucktommy fans! I know there was very recently a fundraiser done over the holiday season. Times are tough, and I understand if it seems too soon to have yet another fundraiser. However, I felt it important to give an easy way to donate to the California Fire Foundation. This is a fundraiser through GoFundMe. Funds will go directly to the foundation.

I set the goal at $1180.

*bucktommypositivityproject is a fan project and is in no way affiliated with 9-1-1 or ABC.*

Link here

Information about the California Fire Foundation is under the cut:

Taken from their website:

The California Fire Foundation, a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization, provides emotional and financial assistance to families of fallen firefighters, firefighters and the communities they protect. Formed in 1987 by California Professional Firefighters, the California Fire Foundation’s mandate includes an array of survivor assistance projects and community initiatives:

California Firefighters Memorial: The Foundation designed, built and maintains this unique memorial to fallen firefighters at the State Capitol in Sacramento. Every year, the Foundation holds a special, annual ceremony to commemorate the bravery of those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Firefighters and Their Families: The Foundation supplies emergency support to departments and families of firefighters killed or injured in the line of duty through the California Firefighters Benevolent Fund and provides educational assistance to the children of fallen firefighters through the California Firefighters Endowment and Daniel A. Terry Scholarship program. The Foundation also provides grants to individuals who demonstrate financial hardship to take the FCTC Candidate Physical Ability Test or written exam, which are the recognized standards for physical and educational testing and recruitment within the fire service.

Victim Assistance: The Foundation’s Supplying Aid to Victims of Emergency (SAVE) program brings immediate, short-term relief to survivors of fire or other natural disaster throughout California. Working together with the California Fire Foundation, firefighters throughout California distribute gift cards in the amount of $250 to eligible survivors of fire or other natural disaster, so they may purchase basic necessities such as medicine, food or clothing.

Community Improvement: The Foundation supplies public safety resources, and conducts outreach and education about fire safety issues through its Firefighters On Your Side program. Additionally, the Foundation contributes to other organizations that aim to enhance and improve the communities of California.

[reasonsforhope]

"Seven federal agencies are partnering to implement President Biden’s American Climate Corps, announcing this week they would work together to recruit 20,000 young Americans and fulfill the administration's vision for the new program. 

The goals spelled out in the memorandum of understanding include comprehensively tackling climate change, creating partnerships throughout various levels of government and the private sector, building a diverse corps and serving all American communities.

The agencies—which included the departments of Commerce, Interior, Agriculture, Labor and Energy, as well the Environmental Protection Agency and AmeriCorps—also vowed to ensure a “range of compensation and benefits” that open the positions up to a wider array of individuals and to create pathways to “high-quality employment.”  

Leaders from each of the seven agencies will form an executive committee for the Climate Corps, which Biden established in September, that will coordinate efforts with an accompanying working group. They will create the standards for ACC programs, set compensation guidelines and minimum terms of service, develop recruitment strategies, launch a centralized website and establish performance goals and objectives. The ACC groups will, beginning in January, hold listening sessions with potential applicants, labor unions, state and local governments, educational institutions and other stakeholders. 

The working group will also review all federal statutes and hiring authorities to remove any barriers to onboarding for the corps and standardize the practices across all participating agencies. Benefits for corps members will include housing, transportation, health care, child care, educational credit, scholarships and student loan forgiveness, stipends and non-financial services.

As part of the goal of the ACC, agencies will develop the corps so they can transition to “high-quality, family-sustaining careers with mobility potential” in the federal or other sectors. AmeriCorps CEO Michael Smith said the initiative would prepare young people for “good-paying union jobs.” 

Within three weeks of rolling out the ACC, EPA said more than 40,000 people—mostly in the 18-35 age range—expressed interest in joining the corps. The administration set an ambitious goal for getting the program underway, aiming to establish the corps’ first cohort in the summer of 2024. 

The corps members will work in roles related to ecosystem restoration and conservation, reforestation, waterway protection, recycling, energy conservation, clean energy deployment, disaster preparedness and recovery, fire resilience, resilient recreation infrastructure, research and outreach. The administration will look to ensure 40% of the climate-related investments flow to disadvantaged communities as part of its Justice40 initiative.  

EPA Administrator Michael Regan said the MOU would allow the ACC to “work across the federal family” to push public projects focused on environmental justice and clean energy. 

“The Climate Corps represents a significant step forward in engaging and nurturing young leaders who are passionate about climate action, furthering our journey towards a sustainable and equitable future,” Regan said. 

The ACC’s executive committee will hold its first meeting within the next 30 days. It will draw support from a new climate hub within AmeriCorps, as well as any staffing the agency heads designate."

-via Government Executive, December 20, 2023

-

This news comes with your regularly scheduled reminder that WE GOT THE AMERICAN CLIMATE CORPS ESTABLISHED LAST YEAR and basically no one know about/remembers it!!! Also if you want more info about the Climate Corps, inc. how to join, you can sign up to get updates here.

[vivicantstudy]

Who is Luce? The Vatican’s New Anime-Style Mascot

The Vatican recently introduced “Luce,” an anime-style mascot, as part of its outreach for the 2025 Jubilee Year. Luce is designed to connect with young audiences by embodying the theme of hope and pilgrimage central to the upcoming Holy Year celebrations. Dressed in a yellow raincoat and boots, and carrying symbols like a cross and the scallop shell (a traditional pilgrimage emblem), she reflects both tradition and a contemporary visual style inspired by anime. Her creator, Italian pop artist Simone Legno, is co-founder of the Japanese-inspired brand tokidoki, and he designed Luce to resonate with global youth through a “kawaii” (cute) aesthetic.

Luce made her first appearance at the Lucca Comics and Games convention, where she was joined by other characters in her fictional universe, such as friends named Fe, Xin, Sky, and her dog, Santino. This initiative also includes her future representation at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, under the Vatican’s theme of “Beauty Brings Hope

She was unveiled as part of a strategy to bring the Catholic Church’s message of hope and faith to a younger, global audience in the lead-up to the 2025 Jubilee Year. The character’s design and concept were created by Simone Legno, co-founder of tokidoki, known for blending Italian pop culture with Japanese aesthetics. Luce’s mission is to serve as a “light” (as her name suggests) to young people, embodying the values of pilgrimage, guidance, and spiritual companionship.

Character Design and Symbolism

Luce is visually characterized by her bright yellow raincoat, practical mud-stained boots, and a pilgrim’s cross. These details underscore her role as a modern-day pilgrim, meant to walk alongside and support young people on their faith journeys. Her eyes feature tiny shells—a nod to the scallop shell emblem associated with the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route—signifying the spiritual journey. She’s often accompanied by a loyal dog named Santino, adding a sense of warmth and relatability.

The Purpose Behind Luce

Archbishop Rino Fisichella, head of the Vatican’s evangelization office, highlighted that Luce’s creation aims to make the Jubilee Year approachable and engaging for youth, particularly through pop culture. She serves as a friendly and symbolic presence to guide young pilgrims through the Holy Year festivities, spreading messages of hope, resilience, and community. Additionally, Luce will be featured in digital and social media campaigns, helping to bridge traditional religious themes with contemporary cultural elements that resonate with younger audiences.

Launch and Public Engagement

Luce’s debut at Lucca Comics and Games, Italy’s premier comics and pop culture event, marked the first time the Vatican actively participated in such a convention. At the event, Luce was introduced alongside “Luce and Friends,” an array of characters designed to appeal to diverse youth. Luce will also represent the Vatican at Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, embodying the theme “Beauty Brings Hope,” a concept that aligns with her mission to convey light and positivity.

Through Luce, the Vatican hopes to foster a deeper connection with younger generations, presenting the Catholic faith’s messages in a format that is visually and culturally engaging.

[eretzyisrael]

by Romany Shaker

An Islamist organization that advocates for violent jihadis in Britain is setting up shop in the United States. CAGE International, which portrays counter-Islamists in Europe as "Islamophobes," is preparing to do the same thing in the U.S. The organization recently solicited donations from donors in the U.S. with the help of Omar Suleiman and Daniel Haqiqatjou. The two imams, who represent the progressive and conservative wings of American Islamism, have called on their U.S. followers to support which made a name for itself in the years after 9/11 by advocating for terrorists serving time in Guantanamo Bay.

The organization hasn't released the numbers about the amount of money it has raised in the U.S., but overall, it seems to have done pretty well, raising £650,000 (approximately $828,000) through its "Supporting Our Heroes: From Guantanamo to Gaza" fundraising campaign launched during Ramadan, which took place this past spring. At the very least, CAGE's American partners helped it to exploit Hamas's October 7 massacre to promote its Islamist brand to Muslims globally, particularly those living in the U.S.

For his part, Haqiqatjou shared a post in March 2024 on his X account featuring CAGE International outreach director Moazzam Begg's call on Western Muslims to support his organization and endorsed its activism and advocacy as "another important cause."

These baby steps help pave the way for CAGE International to gain a foothold in the United States, especially as the British Islamist organization announced its efforts to expand its global reach and influence under the new brand "CAGE International."

Background – What is CAGE?

Given that public officials and counter-Islamists in the United States have little exposure to CAGE International's antics, a primer is in order. Here is what decision-makers need to know about the organization.

Established as a company by Adnan Rasheed Siddiqui in 2007 in London, the Islamist organization, which was initially known as CagePrisoners has gone through two rebrandings, emerging first as CAGE in 2013 and as CAGE International in 2023.

The group, which is currently registered as "Cage Advocacy UK Ltd," describes itself as "an independent advocacy organization" working to "challenge War on Terror inspired state oppression and empower communities to dismantle the discourses and policies of the global War on Terror." Cloaked in the guise of religion, human rights, and social justice, CAGE International claims that it seeks to "revive divine justice." To that end, the Islamist organization invokes the invented concept of "Islamophobia" and spearheads campaigns advocating for Al-Qaeda actors, Islamists, and convicted terrorists.

[reyaint]

social dynamics of HAIQIN

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date: november 11, 2024

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The Social Dynamics of Haiqin

Class System

Haiqin’s class system is complex, allowing for social mobility but still deeply influenced by wealth, education, and historical family status.

Hierarchy and Social Mobility:

The system is influenced by meritocracy, meaning individuals have the potential to move up in social standing through personal achievement, education, and contributions to society. The wealthy elite, including aristocratic families and affluent merchants, maintain their positions primarily through inherited wealth and long standing societal roles. However, individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds can ascend by excelling in areas like entrepreneurship, education, or through significant societal contributions, such as breakthroughs in science, technology, or social welfare.

Class Treatment:

The wealthier class has better access to resources such as advanced healthcare, elite educational institutions, and luxury goods, which further consolidate their wealth and social status. This creates an often rigid division between them and the poorer segments of society. In contrast, poorer citizens, especially those in rural or underdeveloped areas, face greater barriers in terms of access to basic services and opportunities. However, the government’s policies on universal education, healthcare, and anti-poverty measures attempt to level the playing field and provide avenues for upward mobility.

Urban vs. Rural:

While Haiqin's larger urban centers provide ample opportunity, rural areas remain underdeveloped, with limited access to technology and education. The government’s attempts to bridge this gap by promoting rural education, infrastructure development, and encouraging migration to cities for better opportunities have led to more equal opportunities for some. However, these measures often fall short due to regional disparities in governance, leading to challenges in truly achieving equality.

Obviously, I scripted out poverty. but this is more so for lore I guess lol. I also scripted out homophobia, racism, etc. I feel like that's a given anyway.

Race & Ethnicity

Haiqin is known for its rich ethnic diversity, the result of centuries of migration, cultural exchange, and intermarriage. This diversity is embraced and celebrated, with public events and national holidays acknowledging the various cultures within the country.

Ethnic Composition and Integration:

The primary ethnic group in Haiqin is the Haiqinese, but the country also boasts a variety of ethnic minorities that have contributed to the fabric of society. The government fosters a multicultural identity, celebrating diversity through cultural festivals, language preservation programs, and community outreach. Intermarriage between different ethnic groups is common, contributing to a blending of cultures. While tensions between some ethnic groups can arise in specific areas, these are often mitigated through government policies aimed at promoting inclusivity.

Government Initiatives:

The government plays an active role in combating ethnic discrimination, ensuring that policies are inclusive and that minority groups are represented in key societal positions. Policies are also designed to provide equal access to resources like healthcare and education, attempting to reduce the historical inequalities faced by minority groups.

Ethnic Celebrations and Cultural Events:

Cultural and religious diversity is celebrated through national holidays, parades, and exhibitions, fostering a sense of shared identity. Different communities, from the Haiqinese to minority groups, have their own festivals and holidays that are recognized and celebrated throughout the year, contributing to a vibrant, inclusive society.

Gender Roles

Haiqin is progressive when it comes to gender roles, promoting equality and inclusivity across all sectors of society. Gender equality is seen as an integral part of the nation’s modern identity.

Gender Equality in Work and Politics:

Men and women have the same opportunities to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields such as the military, government, and business. While certain jobs may historically have had gender-specific roles (e.g., women in caregiving roles and men in physical labor), these lines are increasingly blurred as social norms evolve. Non-binary individuals are recognized and often hold visible positions in public life, especially in artistic, political, and social spheres.

Cultural Gender Norms:

Despite official equality, cultural and familial expectations still influence gender roles in specific areas. For instance, women may face pressure to marry and start families at certain ages, though this is becoming less prominent with the rise of women’s autonomy in the workplace and education. Similarly, while men are encouraged to pursue leadership roles, the expectations placed on them can sometimes limit their ability to express vulnerability or emotional needs.

Rituals and Celebrations:

Gender-specific rituals are still practiced, particularly in rural or traditional communities. These often celebrate the milestones of different genders (e.g., coming-of-age ceremonies), but with an increasing focus on inclusivity, many rituals now honor multiple gender identities. Cultural festivals, such as the Day of Freedom, often highlight the contributions of different genders to society, reflecting a growing recognition of gender diversity in all public spheres.

Sexuality

The approach to sexuality in Haiqin is becoming increasingly open, progressive, and inclusive, with the government and society at large supporting LGBTQ+ rights and visibility.

General Attitudes:

Attitudes toward sexuality have evolved significantly over the last few decades. The majority of the population now supports LGBTQ+ rights, with public awareness campaigns, education programs, and legal reforms advocating for equality. There is widespread acceptance of LGBTQ+ relationships, especially in urban areas where young people are more likely to be open-minded. This shift is partly driven by the younger generations, who are more willing to challenge traditional norms and fight for social justice.

LGBTQ+ Representation and Rights:

In recent years, the visibility of LGBTQ+ individuals in media, politics, and the arts has increased. Pride parades and other LGBTQ+ celebrations are becoming a regular part of the cultural calendar. Laws have been passed to protect LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination in the workplace, in education, and in healthcare. Adoption rights for same-sex couples have also been extended in several parts of the country, further advancing the acceptance of diverse sexual orientations.

Cultural Representation:

LGBTQ+ relationships are increasingly depicted in the nation’s literature, film, and art. Cultural productions reflect the evolving social attitudes towards sexuality, and LGBTQ+ artists and writers are more likely to be celebrated for their work. This representation has helped further normalize diverse sexual identities, contributing to broader societal acceptance.

Societal Issues and Advocacy

While Haiqin is progressive, societal challenges remain. Advocacy groups for various causes—such as gender equality, racial justice, and LGBTQ+ rights—continue to push for reforms to ensure that all citizens, regardless of their identity, have equal opportunities and rights. These organizations are vital in shaping public discourse and raising awareness of ongoing issues, such as:

Economic Disparities:

Despite efforts to provide equitable access to resources, the gap between the rich and poor remains significant. Advocacy for economic justice continues to address issues like poverty, access to education, and healthcare.

Again, scripted out poverty. But then again, there will still be a difference between middle class and the wealthy, just everyone won't have to worry about money, or the risk of being poor, etc

Environmental Justice:

With Haiqin’s commitment to sustainability, environmental groups advocate for more stringent laws to combat pollution, protect wildlife, and ensure responsible resource management. As the nation modernizes, there is a constant balancing act between industrial development and environmental preservation.

Mental Health Awareness:

Mental health is gaining traction in Haiqin, with more public discussions about the importance of mental well-being and the need for accessible mental health services. Traditional stigma is being challenged, but advocacy for mental health care is still developing.

[platinumpurity]

AIDA SARMIENTO

Global Business Maven Aida Expands Impact, Advocates Sustainable Fashion.

Ries Del Sur – Aida, a prominent figure in the global cosmetics and fashion sector, has unleashed a series of initiatives aimed at promoting environmental responsibility and uplifting underrepresented artists. In a concerted effort to reduce her fashion line's environmental footprint, Aida has pledged to incorporate eco-friendly materials, thereby minimizing plastic waste in her beauty product packaging. Her outreach does not end there.

Aida has extended this support to emerging, gifted artists often overlooked by the industry, providing them with financial backing, mentorship, and a platform to shine.

One of the talented beneficiaries, Melody Guzman , expressed her gratitude, stating, "Aida's backing has granted me a spotlight I never envisioned attaining. It is truly inspiring to witness someone as accomplished as her extending a helping hand to the up-and-coming generation."

In addition to her entrepreneurial pursuits, Aida has recently engaged in political activism, championing more stringent regulations on vigilante actions within the country's jurisdiction. She has been unambiguous in her convictions, famously asserting, "Superheroes are a liability running in flashy costume," making it obvious that she wants proper authorities to handle public safety rather than entrusting unruly individuals.

OOC moment/mod mj: yeaahhh what you read was a lie except for like... the last part.

[I run these blogs: @gothamskidgenius @maryjayden ]

Soo here's the rest of her about

———

Name: Aida Sarmiento

Age: Early 30's

Gender: Female (She/Her)

Sexuality: Unlabled

Skill: Corporate Leadership & Business Strategy

Likes:

- Sowing

- Fur coats

- Conspiracy theories

- Pastries

- Trinkets

Dislikes:

- alcohol

- any form of smoking

- AI art/ NFTs

- Hot weather

- Cluttered workspaces

- Strong perfume/cologne

HEADCANONS:

• Adores trinkets— especially with parts from kids' toys. It could be a fruit eraser, a shopkin, a random lego piece. She's keeping it in her trinket box.

• She flirted with an crazy amount of people throughout her life but never really considered dating.

• Her father was a drag queen.

• Feels a little motherly towards younger workers and tries to brush it aside.

• Says ASMR is weird but listens to it every night.

[copperbadge]

If you could buy Tumblr, would you?

Hm, an interesting thought!

If I were capable of buying Tumblr this would imply one of two things: either Tumblr is so devalued and has become so cheap to maintain that a single man living in downtown Chicago with two cats to feed could afford to buy it and keep it, or I have somehow come into enough wealth that I am capable of squandering millions on the Hellsite.

(Or I'm running the most incredible con, which is actually the most flattering option.)

If we're talking a situation where Tumblr would cost me roughly the price of a third cat to purchase and maintain, sure. Buy it, keep it like a pet. This is a bit of an unrealistic vision of things, because under what circumstances would this possibly happen, but as long as we're in unreality, let's pretend I could also simply add and remove features at will. That's some fun shit. Sure, I would.

The more realistic option (for a given value) is that I have mysteriously come into a massive sum of money and could afford to purchase Tumblr. In this scenario, I could likely afford to operate it at a loss only for so long, but I don't actually know how much Tumblr costs on a yearly basis to keep it operational. Most of the problems with most social media, however, come from the fact that they don't just have to break even, they have to turn a profit to continue to function, or they have to have regular infusions of venture capital. A thorny issue.

Ideally what I would do once Tumblr was purchased, and presuming all the other share/stakeholders and investors were paid off, was immediately convert it to a nonprofit. What you can do with nonprofit cash is a lot smaller than what you can do with for-profit levels of investment, but turning Tumblr into a nonprofit has the immediate advantage of no longer having to make money. Tumblr can actually run at a "loss" if it's a public service, because it's all donation-supported anyway. I could think of half a dozen immediate easy targets for major gift fundraising for "Tumblr 503", and I would immediately begin planning both an annual campaign (that's what you see Wikipedia and AO3 doing each year) and a capital campaign to create an endowment to protect the org from future depredation.

Depending on funding I would also be willing to create an arm of the Tumblr Foundation that could start separate initiatives like legal protection for activists on the platform, AI that is better at recognizing illegal content so we don't have huge buildings of poor traumatized motherfuckers doing that moderation work, and such things. This isn't at all uncommon -- the nonprofit I work for now is a medical nonprofit, but even as small as we are, we have numerous different initiatives, from political lobbying to pharma outreach to a helpline for the newly diagnosed to a yearly conference for doctors in the field to funding for young researchers.

Would it work? Dunno. Possibly not, I'm not experienced in backend management of a massive website. But I know people who are, and if the money was there I'd take a stab at it. Worst case scenario, we just take it private again and sucker a couple of billionaires out of their money a second time. Promise if the nonprofit doesn't work and we sell Tumblr to the highest bidder, everyone on the site when we do gets a cut.

[townpostin]

Jharkhand Police to Launch Citizen Complaint Program

Statewide initiative aims to boost accountability and public trust Jharkhand Police set to implement a new program allowing citizens to file complaints against police personnel of all ranks. DALTONGANJ – The Jharkhand Police will launch the Jan Shikayat Samadhan program on September 10, inviting citizens to report grievances against police officers statewide. The initiative aims to enhance…

[whore-ratio]

I wanna be clear I'm not coming at this from a hostile place because I think your assessment is fairly even-handed and I don't disagree with at least a lot of it. The problem is that the conflagration was started oppositionally to begin with. Counting by appearances, rather than individuals, /massively/ inflates the perceived presence of non-transfem trans people. Ally was Spiders Georg'd to Hell and back, and they were not even out as trans when they first became a core member of the team and in particular an Intrepid Hero all the way back in Freshman Year. And because they were doing it by appearance, every IH season Ally was in had twice or more as many episodes as side quests typically have, adding yet more to the number. On top of that, the language most often used in discussing it has been TMA vs. TME, and that again inflates the presence of non-transfem trans people by lumping them in with cis people.

There's also this weird thing about drag going on. Because literally all the players in D&DQ are in fact transfem, but people still call them transmisogynistic or just assume they're all cis men even though that's super not the case. And I've seen some people say "well they're transfem but why does Dropout pull transfems from drag so much?" and it's like...because they're an entertainment company composed of career performers who've all connected with each other through the LA performing arts scene? Sure, there are transfem comedians in LA, I'm sure, it's a city the size of a small nation, but it's unsurprising they know people in the drag scene, they probably have had conversations about making spaces for transfems and the drag scene is a good place when one wants to go out searching for them, and drag shows are a type of performing arts under explicit legislative attack so it's a trend (value neutral word usage) for a bunch of art performers to do proactively put on drag shows like D&DQ while also using entirely transfem drag performers.

And then there's things like, wildly misunderstanding the joke Brennan was making giving a character that was coincidentally transfem a star sign that was going viral at the time of filming to catch astrology nerd Ally off-guard, which also makes it really hard for people to take the complaints seriously.

I understand wanting more transfem rep, because I do too. But transmasc rep is not actually that great either, and people say "transmascs get crumbs, transfems get dust," but it's just at best people not realizing that the grass is always greener on the other side because transmascs also report feeling invisible on a regular basis. It's easy to cherry pick every good example of transfem or transmasc rep to make it seem like one or the other is eating well. With Dropout that's especially true because it's not like they have auditions and callbacks, they're like, a huge social circle of friends hanging out and trans people in general are still like, one percent of the total population. The fact that as many, transfem or otherwise, have been featured on Dropout as there have been is a statistical wonder of diverse outreach.

I stated many times in my initial post that more transmasc rep is needed too but that's not the point being made. In fact I think I stated it too many times. I'm well aware Ally transitioned after becoming a cast member. I don't really care if they have their reasons for only hiring drag queens. The quality of representation matters. Even if it was completely circumstantial, the reality is that Ally is incredible transmasc representation: someone who transitioned throughout their time as a cast member, and who is featured across the board.

The problem with having drag queens as the only transfem representation (and for the most part, only in a single show) is that it frames transfemininity itself as performative. That this is all a dressup game. The public's broader understanding of transfems barely goes beyond drag queens either; drag is seen as a trans issue and trans women are treated as if our gender is no different than that performance.

The reality is that the quality of transmasc representation is much higher on dropout, even if there are "more trans women", because there is a single person, whose gender is not framed as performative, who transitioned while being a cast member, who is featured in virtually everything on the platform. You can't say it's unfair to point this out because the fact is that the representation exists.

What especially irks me about the situation is that they have also made a Harry Potter spinoff which features no trans women at all (which wasn't done in bad faith but feels like a gut punch and a failure to address a large part of what makes the series so problematic), and they have failed to respond to the community's concerns on this and general representation. Cast members have been blocking transfems for talking about this.

What this ultimately represents is dropout not caring enough to give us quality representation. I can't see it any other way. Once it started being discussed and pointed out to them, they could have responded with literally a generic response and said they'd try, but they'd rather ignore us because we can't be loud enough for it to matter and they don't want to make headlines.

People always have their reasons for not having quality transfem representation. I don't genuinely believe that they hate transfems or hold anything specifically against us; I just see that we're not a group that is "convenient enough" to represent well.

And I'm not going to sit around hand-wringing about "transmascs too!" when that was never the topic of discussion. You can go talk about that separately if you want, but I find it very unhelpful to point out when the transmasc representation is already there and much higher quality, even if it consists of only a single person.

You don't get to say "Ally was spiders georg'd" because you're basically saying they're a fluke who doesn't count, and then you go on to list the sheer amount of screentime they get. You're only disproving your own point.

The transfem community never framed this as a problem with too much transmasc representation, or said that trans men don't need more too. I simply pointed out that the quality of representation matters, and that transmasc representation is done well (even if it could be done more) while transfem representation is not. But apparently we can't talk about it without including a disclaimer about how "transmascs deserve more representation too" and then it's still not enough because somehow the incredibly good representation you *do* have doesn't count.

[juliusofcaesar]

Out of curiosity, how was it like during your deployment to the Strip? Last I was there was to see the owners of the Gomorrah crucifixed during the initial assault, but has the fighting calmed down?

And more importantly, are you still in good condition? I recall you were assigned to pacification and public outreach, tell me more about what you did.

Finally, did you find the new Vertibirds interesting?

@legions-top-dog

Well, father didn't really let me around that area... I suppose I don't know much about it, in honesty.

I am of course okay, shaken up by combat I saw earlier today... I think I'm going to have bad nightmares. But I am a man of the Legion and I will not cry. [Chin wobbles just a little, and he glances away.]

Um... Vertibirds... that is what they are called? I had seen in old books from before the war that they were called helicopters once.

[rabbitcruiser]

National Prairie Day

National Prairie Day, on June 3 this year, celebrates the beauty and ecological value of this often-overlooked ecosystem. Spanning more than a dozen American states and several Canadian provinces, the North American prairie is a vast grassland that offers more biodiversity and beauty than most people realize. With their endless, gently rolling plains and highly productive soils, prairies have been a valued location for farming and ranching for thousands of years. Today, only 1% of tallgrass prairie in the United States remains untouched by farming or development. National Prairie Day promotes the appreciation and conservation of America’s native prairies.

History of National Prairie Day

The United States is home to a dazzling array of geographies and environments. Some, like the towering redwoods of California or the majestic cascades of Niagara Falls, enjoy worldwide reputations as media darlings and tourist hotspots. Other ecosystems, like the humble prairie that covers much of the interior United States, receive fewer accolades but play crucially important roles in the development of the nation.

Defined as a flat grassland with a temperate climate and derived from the French for ‘meadow,’ ‘prairie’ has become almost synonymous with the expansion of the American frontier. Flanked by the Great Lakes and the grandiose Rocky Mountains, the North American prairie extends across 15% of the continent’s land area. Other examples of similar grasslands around the world include the pampas in Argentina, the Central Asian steppes, and the llanos of Venezuela.

There’s more to the prairie than meets the eye. In fact, tall grass prairies host the most biodiversity in the Midwest and provide a home for dozens of rare species of animals and plants, including bison, antelope, elk, wolves, and bears.

Native prairies face extinction as more and more land is converted to agricultural and ranching use. Due to its rich, fertile soil, prairie land is prized for agricultural use. Around the world, almost three-quarters of agricultural regions are located in grassland areas. With only 1% of tallgrass prairie in the U.S. remaining untouched, the American tallgrass prairie is now one of the most endangered ecosystems on the planet. The Missouri Prairie Foundation launched National Prairie Day in 2016 to raise awareness and appreciation for the nation’s grasslands. The organization seeks to protect and restore native grasslands by promoting responsible stewardship, supporting acquisition initiatives, and providing public education and outreach.

National Prairie Day timeline

6000 B.C. The Prairie Forms

The North American prairie forms roughly 8,000 years ago when receding glaciers give way to fertile sediment.

1800s The American Prairie Decimated

Throughout the 19th century, farmers and ranchers, excited about the rich potential of prairie soil, convert almost all of the American prairie to farmland and grazing land.

Early 1930s The Dust Bowl

The combination of years of mismanagement, the stock market crash, and drought conditions come to a head as thousands of families in Oklahoma, Texas, and other parts of the Midwest lose everything when their farms fail, driving them to California and elsewhere to seek work in more fertile fields.

2016 First National Prairie Day

The Missouri Prairie Foundation launches the National Prairie Day campaign to promote awareness and conservation of the vanishing ecosystem.

National Prairie Day FAQs

Why don't prairies have any trees?

The environment of the prairie, with its flat terrain, regular droughts, and frequent fires, is uniquely suited to grasses that don’t require a lot of rainfall or deep soil to thrive.

Why are prairies important?

The prairie provides an irreplaceable home for hundreds of plant and animal species, as well as exceedingly fertile soil for human agriculture and ranching. Prairie destruction has had catastrophic effects, like the Dust Bowl that decimated American farms in the 1930s. Prairies also contribute to the conservation of groundwater.

Why did the Dust Bowl happen?

The Dust Bowl disaster that swept the U.S. and Canada in the 1930s had several natural and man-made causes, including severe drought and a failure to properly manage farmland and conserve precious topsoil. A series of intense dust storms wiped out agriculture, eroded the soil, and left the land unable to produce crops.

National Prairie Day Activities

Learn about the prairie

Donate to a conservation group

Plan a visit to a famous prairie

Do a little research to learn about this important American ecosystem and the role it has played in the cultural and economic development of our country.

If you're concerned about the loss of the American prairie, donate to a grasslands conservation group to support their work.

Do you live near a prairie? Try finding the grassland nearest you and plan a visit.

5 Interesting Facts About Prairies

‘Prairie schooners’

Dogtown

Where the buffalo roam

Carbon hero

Rising from the ashes

During the 1800s, when Americans embarked on the long journey westward, their covered wagons were often referred to as ‘prairie schooners.’

Prairie dogs live in vast networks of underground burrows called ‘towns,’ which can cover hundreds of acres and house thousands of prairie dogs with complex social relationships.

When Europeans first arrived in North America, up to 60 million bison roamed the plains — by 1885, there were fewer than 600.

Prairies can help fight climate change — one acre of intact prairie can absorb about one ton of carbon each year.

On the prairie, wildfires can actually be a healthy thing — with more than 75% of their biomass underground, prairie plants are uniquely suited to surviving and thriving after a fire.

Why We Love National Prairie Day

The prairie often gets overlooked

Native grasslands are critically endangered

It reminds us of the diversity of America's ecosystems

It's not often we remember to celebrate grasslands, yet the prairie plays an important role in America's cultural past and environmental future.

With only 1% of America's native prairie remaining, it's more urgent than ever to conserve and protect this vital resource.

The United States has more environmental variety than almost any other country on earth. Celebrating each unique ecosystem reminds us to appreciate and protect all the beauty our country has to offer.

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Trauma Center Levels

As mentioned above, Trauma categories vary from state to state. Outlined below are common criteria for Trauma Centers verified by the ACS and also designated by states and municipalities. Facilities are designated/verified as Adult and/or Pediatric Trauma Centers. It is not uncommon for facilities to have different designations for each group (ie. a Trauma Center may be a Level I Adult facility and also a Level II Pediatric Facility).

 

Level I

Level I Trauma Center is a comprehensive regional resource that is a tertiary care facility central to the trauma system. A Level I Trauma Center is capable of providing total care for every aspect of injury – from prevention through rehabilitation.

Elements of Level I Trauma Centers Include: 

 

24-hour in-house coverage by general surgeons, and prompt availability of care in specialties such as orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, anesthesiology, emergency medicine, radiology, internal medicine, plastic surgery, oral and maxillofacial, pediatric and critical care. 

Referral resource for communities in nearby regions.

Provides leadership in prevention, public education to surrounding communities.

Provides continuing education of the trauma team members.

Incorporates a comprehensive quality assessment program.

Operates an organized teaching and research effort to help direct new innovations in trauma care.

Program for substance abuse screening and patient intervention.

Meets minimum requirement for annual volume of severely injured patients.

 

Level II

A Level II Trauma Center is able to initiate definitive care for all injured patients.

 

Elements of Level II Trauma Centers Include:

 

24-hour immediate coverage by general surgeons, as well as coverage by the specialties of orthopedic surgery, neurosurgery, anesthesiology, emergency medicine, radiology and critical care. 

Tertiary care needs such as cardiac surgery, hemodialysis and microvascular surgery may be referred to a Level I Trauma Center. 

Provides trauma prevention and continuing education programs for staff. 

Incorporates a comprehensive quality assessment program.

 

Level III

A Level III Trauma Center has demonstrated an ability to provide prompt assessment, resuscitation, surgery, intensive care and stabilization of injured patients and emergency operations.

Elements of Level III Trauma Centers Include: 

 

24-hour immediate coverage by emergency medicine physicians and the prompt availability of general surgeons and anesthesiologists. 

Incorporates a comprehensive quality assessment program.

Has developed transfer agreements for patients requiring more comprehensive care at a Level I or Level II Trauma Center. 

Provides back-up care for rural and community hospitals.

Offers continued education of the nursing and allied health personnel or the trauma team. 

Involved with prevention efforts and must have an active outreach program for its referring communities. 

 

Level IV

A Level IV Trauma Center has demonstrated an ability to provide advanced trauma life support (ATLS) prior to transfer of patients to a higher level trauma center.  It provides evaluation, stabilization, and diagnostic capabilities for injured patients.

Elements of Level IV Trauma Centers Include:

 

Basic emergency department facilities to implement ATLS protocols and 24-hour laboratory coverage. Available trauma nurse(s) and physicians available upon patient arrival.

May provide surgery and critical-care services if available.  

Has developed transfer agreements for patients requiring more comprehensive care at a Level I or Level II Trauma Center. 

Incorporates a comprehensive quality assessment program.

Involved with prevention efforts and must have an active outreach program for its referring communities. 

 

Level V

A Level V Trauma Center provides initial evaluation, stabilization and diagnostic capabilities and prepares patients for transfer to higher levels of care.

Elements of Level V Trauma Centers Include:

 

Basic emergency department facilities to implement ATLS protocols.

Available trauma nurse(s) and physicians available upon patient arrival.

After-hours activation protocols if facility is not open 24-hours a day.

May provide surgery and critical-care services if available.  

Has developed transfer agreements for patients requiring more comprehensive care at a Level I through III Trauma Centers.  

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Salisbury Autism Care: A Safe Haven of Assistance for People on the Autistic Spectrum 

The modern world has witnessed a notable increase in the knowledge and comprehension of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Nevertheless, despite these advancements, people on the autism spectrum continue to have difficulties going about their everyday lives. This is where groups like Salisbury Autistic Care come in, offering people with ASD priceless assistance and creating inclusive communities.

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder 

Prior to discussing Salisbury Autistic Care's position, it is important to comprehend what ASD is. Difficulties with communication, social interaction, and repetitive behaviors typify the developmental illness known as autism spectrum disorder. Since every person with ASD has a different set of strengths and problems, it is essential to approach care and support from a personalized perspective. 

Salisbury Autism Care Offers Holistic Support 

Salisbury Autistic Care: A Haven of Support for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum They understand the value of providing people on the autistic spectrum with comprehensive care. Their strategy prioritizes fostering each person's total well-being rather than just attending to their immediate needs. The facility provides an extensive array of services that are customized to satisfy the various requirements of its clientele, ranging from educational programs to therapy sessions and vocational training. 

Boosting Self-Sufficiency

Their fundamental tenet is enabling people with ASD to live autonomous, satisfying lives. Through tailored support plans and skill-enhancement programs, they furnish their clients with the necessary resources to adeptly handle diverse facets of everyday existence. At every stage of the process, from acquiring work prospects to learning vital life skills, the facility is committed to promoting independence. 

Building Inclusive Communities

Apart from offering immediate assistance to people with ASD, Salisbury Autistic Care is essential to fostering inclusive societies. Salisbury Autistic Care: Creating Inclusive Communities for Individuals on the Autism Spectrum encourages awareness and acceptance of autism; they collaborate closely with businesses, community organizations, and educational institutions. Through increasing awareness and offering training, they contribute to creating circumstances where people with ASD can flourish without encountering prejudice or stigma.

Teaching the Community 

Fostering empathy and understanding for people with ASD requires education. Salisbury Autistic Care regularly participates in community outreach initiatives, educating the public about autism spectrum disease through workshops and seminars. They help to create a more inclusive society where people with ASD are recognized for their unique qualities by dispelling myths and giving correct information. 

Teaching the Community 

Fostering empathy and understanding for people with ASD requires education. They regularly participate in community outreach initiatives, educating the public about autism spectrum disease through workshops and seminars. By dispelling myths and giving correct information, they help create a more inclusive society where people with ASD are recognized for their unique qualities.

In summary 

For those who are autistic and their families, Salisbury Autistic Care is more than just a service provider—it's a ray of hope and support. By using a holistic approach, they create inclusive communities where everyone is appreciated and embraced, enabling people with ASD to realize their full potential. Salisbury Autistic Care is improving the lives of thousands of autistic people and their families by carrying out their purpose of advocacy, education, and support.