#Affordable Rugs For Sale

[rugsluxe]

The living room serves as a gathering place for family and friends and a place to relax after a busy day. Making your living room look great and stylish doesn't have to cost a lot of money. If you pick the right affordable living room rug, it can really make a difference. This is how you can choose a rug that fits your budget and makes your neighbors gasp at how nice your home looks.

[banamaak]

this is so upsetting. day = ruined

[dduane]

Hello.

I've seen you posting detailed information about the WGA strike and wondered if you had any suggestions as to how those of us not directly involved can show our support for the Union?

Okay, bearing in mind that all this is entirely subjective at the moment (and so far lacking any more useful input from other sources): a few thoughts.

This will be my third WGA strike. (My first one was in 1988, just after I'd made my first live action sale—s1e6 of ST:TNG). And the thought keeps occurring to me at the moment that this time out, there's a potentially gamechanging player on the field that wasn't there before: truly pervasive social media.

(Adding a cut here, because this goes on a bit...)

In 2007, social media as we now understand it was still in its cradle. Now, though, those of us who're striking can make our voices much more widely heard. And so can those of us who're not, but just want to show solidarity. Last time, the AMPTP was able to do pretty much what it wanted without the public noticing or having even a medium-profile way to make their feelings known. But this time? Not so much.

So as an otherwise uninvolved person who wants to show solidarity, I'd start with something seemingly low-value. If I was on Twitter, I'd start routinely tweeting about the strike and my support for it—not obsessively, just persistently, a couple/few times a week—using the Twitter hashtags that are gaining ground even now, such as #DoTheWriteThing (and of course #WGAStrike). I would make sure I was following @WGAEast and @WGAWest, to keep an eye on what's going on.

Additionally: I would start politely, but repeatedly—again, maybe once or twice a week at least, and not stopping—tweeting the various major players in the AMPTP, especially the streamers: Amazon, Netflix, Hulu et al. I would start suggesting that their current attitude toward the WGA's contract negotiations is not only unrealistic but potentially (for the AMPTP) bad for business. (And self-destructive, too, as if this goes on much longer in this vein, they'll be seemingly eagerly casting themselves as The Baddies.) I would suggest that their bad behavior, if not amended by them coming to the table to bargain in good faith, might start affecting both my interest in their shows and my willingness to keep paying unreasonable people for access to them.

I should emphasize here that so far there've been no formal calls from anyone for boycotts or subscription cancellations. For the moment, this strikes me as wise. The point for WGA-friendly observers, right now, would be to keep what's happening to the writers visible: to keep bringing it up: to refuse to allow it to be swept under the rug. The "They only want two cents on the dollar!" angle seems potentially useful the more it's repeated. The point is to keep the repetition going: to make it plain, day after day, that the other side's being not just unreasonable, but greedy. Day after day, and week after week, and (if necessary: please Thoth may it not be...) month after month.

And tweeting is hardly all that can be done. Email is cheap and easy. But actual letters, written on actual paper and mailed, can still create a surprising amount of attention in a corporate office. (The saying in TV used to be that for every person who actually writes in about an issue, there are ten, or a hundred, who feel the same way but never got around to it.) Write letters to all the AMPTP members' CEOs, and make your feelings on the WGA's core demands politely plain. ...Especially when those CEOs collectively made almost three-quarters of a billion-with-a-B dollars in salaries last year, when many of the writers working on their shows can't afford rent.

After that: here's another thought, a little more physical. If by chance you're in an area where one or the other of the Guilds are picketing: turn out and support them! Honk when you pass: and if you're interested, show up and offer to walk the picket lines with them. These things get noticed. (In 2007 a bunch of us, both Guild members and non-, caused significant astonishment by turning out to picket AMPTP members' offices in Dublin.)

...Obviously not all that many people are going to be positioned, in terms of location or their own work and time commitments, to show up physically. But online? Find ways to keep this issue visible. The AMPTP wants this to go quiet, wants people to get bored with it, wants people to find reasons to blame the writers. They've tried spinning the story that way before. Don't let them pull that shit. Find ways to back those who're calling them on that, publicly. They do respond to this kind of thing (though they may strenuously deny it). If enough attention continues to be paid by the general public, they will blink—if sometimes excruciatingly slowly, as Disney began to blink over the dispute tagged #DisneyMustPay.

As viewers, and as viewers who pay for subscriptions to things, we far outnumber them. Help be a part of making the AMPTP understand that this quest for a truly fair deal is not going to go away. And the longer they try to act like the Guild's negotiation positions are beneath their notice, the more it's going to hurt them, and the stupider and greedier it's going to make them look.

...That's all I've got for the moment, as I need some lunch. :) ...But I hope this has helped. And thanks for your concern, and your desire to stand in solidarity with us! It's so welcome. :)

ETA: here's a link to the Guild's social media toolkit, for those who'd like to change PFPs or icons, etc., to show their support.

[brf-rumortrackinganon]

If you look at the trademark application for American Riviera Orchard, you’ll see that she’s trademarking it through a newly registered in Delaware company called Mama Knows Best, LLC.

Infact when you dig into the domain names etc, it seems this was thrown together last minute aka 2months ago after KC3/ PssoW C’s illnesses were announced. They are using PR to pretend they were working on it for an entire year, but even Scobie said they had nothing or whatever they had was all over the shop and he had no idea what it would be.

His comments don’t speak to a focused vision that is researched into whatever this is.

And what’s glaring about this launch is the lack of anything to sell. Not videos or actual products which speaks to the theory that this wax thrown together very quickly.

Russell Myers from the Mirror says if you sign up to the website, you get a respinse telling you that you’ll be notified of products when they are created/ available……if this was a year in the making and with proper marketing/ PR people, they’d have products ready to go. What it is right now is a landing/ holding page ( comments turned off on IG) until it produces products. 

It’s also interesting that the video is showcasing cooking which Markle tried to manifest for years while dating Corey. She auditioned and or popped up on varioys cooking shows/ fashion segments hoping to be hired. Acvording to people magazine, this launch of a lifestyle brand will have a companion show on Netflix. If Network tv won’t hire her for dream job then she’ll use her distribution deal to make it happen aka pay herself to make it happen!!!

However, one thing she revealed which tells me she has no clue about aspirational lifestyles/ branding. Her home kitchen hasn’t been updated from the dated 2000s/ early 2010s decor. It’s tye same kitchen from the sales brochure. 

Infact, glimpses of their home show a distinct lack of updating from the sales brochure. The onpy room thry updated is the one with the dining table as desk and their two side by side chairs. They removed all furniture and painted it white and addedva jute rug and that california bear poster over the fireplace. 

The current trend in kitchens for the wealthy is marble counter-tops and sleek designs meanwhile she’s displaying faux country/ italianate kitchen from the 90s. 

The women she is cosplaying eg GOOP, Martha and Ina Garten have upgraded to the current trend in kitchens. GOOP showed off her new kitchedn in AD. Heck, JLO is showing off her sleek kitchen. 

*****************

That they haven’t updated their house to their taste is what I laugh about the most. Are they really that cash-poor? Do they really have that much debt that they can’t afford to redo anything? Surely Markus and Soho House can cough up a few million to keep her happy, and when the Sussexes default on the loans, they can make Soho Olive Garden, a Californian spinoff of Soho Farmhouse. Win-win, if you ask me.

meanwhile she’s displaying faux country/ italianate kitchen from the 90s. ➡️ Remember, Meghan’s whole aesthetic is 90s. Of course she wants the Italian Country kitchen.

And thanks, anon. You’ve just reminded me of a house I looked at when I was moving back in 2022. The homeowners were so into that Italian Country Kitchen theme that they PAINTED the entire kitchen like it was a rustic Italian restaurant. You know you go into a family-owned Italian mom-and-pop place (not a chain like Olive Garden or Maggianos, but something like your neighborhood Italian pizza place) and it’s got that orangey-beige sponge paint that’s supposed to mimic sandstone and there’s a huge wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling mural of Italy and dusty fake vines hanging from decorative columns? Yeah, that was how this kitchen was painted. Even the cabinets. And that was not even the weirdest house I looked at by a mile.)

[adorkastock]

Question, what's your opinion on "person gets some of your stock photos where they'd have to pay to access it, and then that person passes the photo on to an artist, either a friend or someone they're getting commissioned artwork from, for that artist to use"? Mostly hypothetical.

There's a few layers here and I want to explain my feelings in general so I'm sorry this is a little long. 💖 Most of my paid content is advance access which means I plan to release most (if not eventually all) of it for free someday. When people pay me for packs they are saying, "Hey omg thanks I needed this and you're making it, here is some money to please keep doing that." When I had a kid in 2014 I sort of had to put pose ref work on the backburner. I have been able to keep doing it (and greatly expand my offerings!) mainly due to the financial support I gained in early 2020 when I went a little viral on Twitter. It's made a HUGE impact on my ability to be an independent creator both for pose ref and for art and I'm exceedingly grateful for that support. If people have paid to get some poses then those poses technically have the same license as all my other stuff (credit/notification required for reposting, not required for used as reference). So if they are sending it to another artist as a ref for a commission or just to share with a buddy and either my watermark is on it or they say "this is from AdorkaStock" then they aren't violating my usage terms. I know not everyone who wants to support me financially can do it. I know that sometimes artists are going to split the cost of packs and things like that. It's okay, I expect that. I know that people will come and go on Patreon as they can or can't afford it and that's cool too. I know people are gunna post paid poses when they are sharing WIPs or maybe streaming or whatever - that's all expected. I would obviously be super miffed if someone was taking chunks of my paid stuff and then reposting it for free publicly. Technically they'd be required to tell me about that and I'd definitely ask them to please not. ✌🏻😭 I appreciate every person who throws a few bucks my way every month through Patreon or through Ko-fi donations or shop sales. The money I make doing pose ref work has allowed me to keep doing this AND to make more art, which is basically just me living my happy little dream over here. 🥹 ---TL;DR--- I know people are gunna share paid poses with people who didn't pay and generally speaking that's okay just don't be a jerk about it by pulling out the very nice rug my supporters have woven under meeeee. ♥

[toyybox]

Spiderwebs #11: Dollhouse

Masterlist

content: lab whump, captivity

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

The bed was bought from a garage sale, a cheap but sturdy thing from somewhere downtown. It came with a matching nightstand, so Heather had that taken care of. She considered buying a lamp, but giving Jackie anything close to a weapon was a bad idea. 

“What do you mean, a brush that isn’t sharp?”

Heather tried her best to sound polite. “I mean, if someone tries to stab me with that toothbrush, they won’t get very far. Something like that.”

The general store employee gave her an odd look, so Heather gave up and bought the least dangerous looking one. The mattress was ordered online. Heather was able to buy a few sets of clothes, alongside gloves and a new pair of black boots that would fit better than the old shoes Heather had let him borrow. She acquired a stronger light bulb, a nicer blanket, a pillow, and a shell-white bedsheet. A writing desk would be necessary for certain experiments, so she blew a few bucks on that. And a better chair, of course. Heather knew she was getting carried away when she almost bought a rug.

Three days passed before she could acquire everything. She didn’t visit Jackie in that time. She had left him food and water, obviously, and assumed he would figure the rest out by himself. She had enough on her hands with all the boxes in her living room, and the incessant calls. There were so many calls.

Heather lifted the phone for what must have been the sixth time that hour. “What is it now?”

“Heather, please!”

She heard that word a lot lately. Heather hung up without a moment’s hesitation. The phone rang again, however. It would keep ringing unless she answered. Her old boss was a determined man, even if he was a tad oblivious. 

She lifted the phone again. “Listen, I’ll let you talk once. But this is the last time you call me, or I’m placing a restraining order.”

“Yes, of course.” There was a deep exhale on the other side of the line. “Heather, the organization needs you. Nobody else can work on that project. You were our best asset, face it. Half these idiots don’t even know how to operate a Bunsen burner. We need you.”

“Nice speech, but don’t kid yourself. You need my money.”

“So what? Maybe we need your money. The coffee machine ran out of coffee three weeks ago! Come back, and we’ll give you the highest position possible. All the benefits. Come on, you’re a reasonable person, you gotta come back.”

Heather brought the box cutter out of a drawer. “Yeah, thanks, but I’m legally not allowed back there. Go find someone else to leech off.”

“You tried to drug one intern, who cares?”

“The police!” she snapped. “If the higher-ups hear of this, the authorities will get involved, and I know you can't afford a lawyer. Don’t call me again.” 

“Fine, fine. But it doesn’t have to be official, you know, just come with the money and we’ll collaborate in private. No more drugging the interns, but we’ll get some monkeys, whatever. What else are you planning? You aren’t working with someone new already, are you?”

“It’s been a month. What did you expect?” Heather ran the boxcutter along the taped edge of the bedframe’s box. “I’ve got another project. I’m not coming back. Goodbye.”

With that, she hung up and cut the last of the tape off. Damned bureaucrats. Sticking their nose where the money was like a pack of bloodhounds. Had all the politeness of a stray dog, too. Heather was done with them.

The research facility she used to work at had been dreadfully boring. Her colleagues shared different interests, to say the least. Benevolent, but horribly tedious interests. It was challenging, working on curing glioblastoma cancer, but she didn’t really care about curing diseases. She wanted to break the boundaries of what was considered science. She wanted to tear the universe apart and mesh it back together by her own design. Curing cancer was fine, but it was nothing compared to immortality. Those mice pumped full of steroids and painkillers were nothing in the shadow of Jackie Rockwell. 

Speaking of, Heather was ready to check up on him. A thick, black scarf had been tossed aside on a sofa. She grabbed it, made her way across the hallway, then knocked on the basement door.

“Who’s there?”

She rolled her eyes, though he couldn’t see it. “Very funny.”

“Very funny who?”

Good to know he was awake, at least. She turned the lock and swung the door open. Jackie lay sprawled on the floor, still tangled in the blanket, surrounded by empty granola bar wrappers. 

Heather waved her box cutter at him. “What are you doing?”

He froze. His neutral expression shifted into slight alarm. It reminded her of the incident, as she’d taken to thinking of it, after she had cut him open. That made her guilt weigh a little heavier. And that made her anger burn a little brighter. She had no idea what past Heather was thinking. Hugging her test subject was one of the most unprofessional situations she could think of. The worst part was that it had actually felt nice—but that didn't make any sense! Heather was not lonely. She was alone, but not lonely. 

All she wanted was to forget about that mistake and move on with the experiments. That was nothing but a misstep, a fumble in the first half of the game. Nothing more.

“It’s not for you.” She pushed the blade closed and pocketed it. “Unless you decide to do something stupid.”

He relaxed, sighed, and sat up. “I’m not doing anything. There’s nothing to do here.”

“You’ll be happy with the change of scenery, then.” She stepped down the stairs. “Close your eyes.”

“I'm getting deja vu.” He closed them anyway. 

Heather stepped behind him and wrapped the scarf around his eyes, twice. “Can you see anything?”

He shook his head. 

“Excellent.” She pulled him up by the arms, and he staggered to his feet. “Follow my lead. Don’t take the blindfold off.”

“Whatever you say.”

“Exactly.” 

With her hands firmly on his shoulders, she steered him up the stairs and out of the basement, then up another flight of stairs and down the hallway to her bedroom. There, she led him into a closet.

He felt for the walls, pushing his hands upon the sides. "Is this another experiment?"

"No. I have business to attend to. I don't want you running off in the meantime."

"The blindfold's a bit unnecessary."

"Is it?” She shut the closet door, then locked it. “I’ll be back soon. Don’t make too much of a mess.”

First of all, his room was filthy. The basement was splattered with blood and ash, filled with junk, and smelled like a slaughterhouse. The empty mirror was easy enough to move. The old dresser was pushed out without much effort, as were the remains of the table. The freezer was harder. She rolled it upstairs on an appliance dolly, as slowly as possible. 

Bloodstains weren’t hard to clean. Piles of peroxide powder scattered over the floor broke down the copper-red splotches, while she cleared out the garbage and rotting food. Dusting and sweeping took a good ten or fifteen minutes. Clumps of dust and flakes of charcoal soon lay in the bottom of a black garbage bag. 

The smell was harder to get rid of, now that it had time to seep in and settle, but she managed to cover it up with a few sprays of air freshener. Twenty minutes were spent on setting up the furniture, building the bed frame and putting the mattress on, then moving everything else into place.

By the end, Heather had to admit she was proud of her work. She never knew interior design could be so entertaining. That stillness, that empty perfection—it was all so fascinating. It reminded her of a diorama. After all, the room was primarily a safe environment for her subject. A contained space to observe him. An insect in a glass jar. A doll in a dollhouse.

Jackie was leaning against the closet wall when she came back. “Took you long enough.”

“Did I say you could take the blindfold off?”

“It’s a closet, what’s the big deal?”

She ripped the scarf from his grasp and placed it back over his head, despite his irritated expression. “Stop complaining. Come on.”

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Once they reached the basement, she lifted the scarf away. 

He rubbed his eyes. He walked around the room in sprawling circles. He sat down on the bed, at last. His arms fell gently into his lap. Then, he looked back at her over his shoulder, eyes full of an apathetic uneasiness, and did not move. There was something very candid about it.

“Well?” she asked. “What do you think?”

“I think it’s stupid,” he replied at once. “Do you wanna know why I think it’s stupid?”

“No.”

“You’re putting so much effort into this,” he continued. “You think this is going to be a permanent thing. It’s ridiculous. It’s a waste of your time. It’s a waste of my time. You can’t keep me here forever.”

“I can’t?” She smiled, faintly amused. “You’re right. Forever is a long time. It’s only until one of us dies.”

“I will kill you.” That candid air snapped as he rose to his feet. 

“Oh, you can try. If you need me to teach you another lesson—“ She pulled out the box cutter from her pocket, pushing the blade open—“I’d be happy to help.”

He sat back down, simmering with rage. “I can’t wait to see you rotting in prison, you fucking creep.”

“Oh, boo hoo. I’m a monster because I gave you a home. You have to live here, so what? I’m the one doing all the work. I’m the one taking care of you.” She pointed at him with the blade. “All you have to do is sit there and be quiet.”

“I have a home!” he snarled. “I already have a home! I don’t want you to take care of me. I didn’t ask for you to fucking kidnap me and keep me in your fucking basement. I don’t want to be your fucking test subject. I want to go back home, back to my home. I want to leave.”

“We don’t always get what we want, do we? If whining about it makes you happy, then you can keep whining. You can kick and scream the entire way. You’re still not leaving.” His glare only dug into her harder, and she sighed. “Try thinking of this in a positive way. It’s not all bad.”

“Yes, I’m sure a positive attitude will fix everything,” he replied tartly.

“A positive attitude will make you less insufferable. Just a suggestion. Maybe there’s a reason you used to live alone.”

“All because I didn’t say thank you to the psycho who kidnapped me.” He crossed his arms. “Gee, why didn’t I think of that? That’s a great way to make friends, isn’t it? Hey, maybe people would like you more if you didn’t rip their intestines out. Just a suggestion, you know. Maybe people wouldn’t think you were such a freak if—“

“Do you want to eat dinner or not?”

“I want to break your neck. Go to hell.”

Oh, how dare he. How dare he. Heather wanted to make him suffer for that. She wanted to hurt him. She wanted to—but she needed to take her own advice and think logically for a moment. Of course he was angry. Who wouldn't be? He was scared, she knew that, and anger was how he tried to protect himself. Anger was his tooth and claw when he lost all his other weapons. It was only natural, even if it was idiotic. He'd see her point eventually. He'd get used to it. She didn't need to starve him. 

"It's alright," she said. "You're upset. I'll get you something to eat."

"You want to drug me again, don't you?” He scoffed. “I'll pass."

"You'll change your mind."

His expression said otherwise, but he would cave in eventually. Like rusted metal, all things could be worn down with time. Like frayed fabric, like rocky shores, like entire mountains. Who was Jackie in the face of all these things? Only a man, only an animal without any claws. Even an immortal couldn't win against the nature of things. The second hand would wear him down, sooner or later.

· • —– ٠ ✤ ٠ —– • ·

Taglist:

@theelvishcowgirl

[imjussaiyan]

Soooo I’m gonna have a sale.

I’m selling my punch needle mini rug coasters for $15 rn. I need to sell 30 of them to afford dental work I really need. If you’re interested in a design or color I don’t have or would like some other design, let me know. I’ll see what I can do for you! It doesn’t have to be a pokeball.

Anyway, even if you can’t purchase, sharing this post helps a lot. Thank you so much. I’ll also leave the name of my Etsy here:

CrowAndRabbitCrafts

[torque-witch]

I am once again asking for sales 😂

20% off $30+ is still active in the shop until the 28th! I may extend or change that for the beginning week of March as well.

I’ve just paid all my utilities ($647) and I’m currently making around $500 every two weeks at my hourly job. Etsy has been super slow as well as my other consignment areas, so it’s just not covering enough. My car payment will be coming up on the 8th which I should be paid then, but it’s $290 lol.

I know that statues aren’t everyone’s cup of tea nor affordable, so I am trying to branch out to cheaper items but it takes time (and money haha). Just gotta say it and be real with y’all 🤷🏼‍♀️

I’ve got statues, misc re-painted decor, micro crochet earrings, mug rugs, stickers, tarot bags, runes, etc.

What else would y’all like to see? It’s a try anything year so just let me know if it seems like I’m missing something. Once the weather is nice I’ll be taking new pictures for prints and stickers to try and fill that hole out. Should I get buttons? I can also integrate Printful into the shop but I’m not sure about the quality yet. Lemme know!

Death’s Head Divination

[huh-huhyourself]

Same old saturday night Yep, you know that song...

Glasses? No?

Actually I've drawn a no glasses version but it seems funny to put 2 pictures which only a few parts different together in one same row... Ahem... So let me type something else and I'll put it below. Sorry.

Haven't played M2DE yet but heard he owns a room at Empire Arms Hotel. I envy you Henry, I wish I had the cash for a hotel. I hate making my bed every day.

He's a little old fashioned guy to me (like always wear 3... NO STOP!). I imagine think... Ok imagine Henry has some collections like collar pins/bars/clips, necktie clips, pairs of cufflinks... He puts them in some jewellery box lol. Even has some good wooden hangers maybe? Or maybe not, cause he wears button down shirts in game... :(

A'ight murmur time↓↓↓, nothing useful you could skip.

Signed Patch this time.

Did I draw his frame a little too strong? No? Ughhhhh...

Well, silk pjpants.

Thank god no need to draw whole breast/nipples this time, I mean again, dunno how to...

Don't know why so many pink towels in this game, so pink it is.

At first I made the bathrobe winered, but then I remembered that fuckin'(sorry but I like him) Leo has a same colour one.

Everyone wears a pair of foot-relaxing slippers.

Some armchair 5k direct from Italy, some French floor lamp 5k, some Paule Leleu rug 2k a piece, some coffee table 2k, I can never afford these...

I mean they are all 200 bucks/piece from a local furniture store. (smile

20 bucks/piece from local garage sales.(smile again

FREE! Love from some goodhearted pathetic debtor!!! (stop

Colours hate me, and I hate colours. We've been torture each other from the beginning.

上色前：勉强看得出大概画了什么玩意…

上色后：什么玩意？

Next time I'll draw some scene that shouldn't exist? Then next, some OOC, x3?And then, and then... That's a long way...

[dontmeantobepoliticalbut]

In rural Arizona’s La Paz County, on the state’s rugged border with California, the decision by a Saudi-owned dairy company to grow alfalfa in the American Southwest for livestock in the Gulf kingdom first raised eyebrows nearly a decade ago. Now, worsening drought has focused new attention on the company and whether Arizona should be doing more to protect its groundwater resources.

Amid a broader investigation by the state attorney general, Arizona last week rescinded a pair of permits that would have allowed Fondomonte Arizona, a subsidiary of Almarai Co., to drill more than 1,000 feet (305 meters) into the water table to pump up to 3,000 gallons (11 kiloliters) of water per minute to irrigate its forage crops.

In an interview with The Associated Press, Attorney General Kris Mayes said she thought most Arizonans see it as “outrageous” that the state is allowing foreign-owned companies “to stick a straw in our ground and use our water for free to grow alfalfa and send it home to Saudi Arabia. We just can’t — in the midst of an epic drought — afford to do dumb things with water in the state of Arizona anymore.”

Mayes, a Democrat, sought the revocations after she said her office had found inconsistencies in the permit applications. Mayes vowed to look into Fondomonte’s operations and water use last year after the Arizona Republic reported that the Arizona State Land Department leased the company thousands of acres of farmland for below market value.

Fondomonte did not respond to multiple requests for comment from the AP. Its lawyers have said previously that the company legally leased and purchased land in the U.S. and spent millions on infrastructure improvements.

Years of drought have ratcheted up pressure on water users across the West, particularly in states like Arizona, which relies heavily on the dwindling Colorado River. The drought has also made groundwater — long used by farmers and rural residents with little restriction — even more important for users across the state.

Saudi Arabia, struggling with its own water shortages in the past decade, restricted the growth of some forage crops in the country. That Fondomonte chose Arizona as a place to grow such crops has angered some in the state, which has faced two consecutive years of federal water cuts from the Colorado River, a primary water source for the state.

Officials from both parties have criticized the use of state water by foreign-owned entities, with Gov. Katie Hobbs, also a Democrat, saying in her January state of the state address that she, too, would look into the practice. The state’s groundwater, Hobbs said, “should be used to support Arizonans, not foreign business interests.”

That same month, Republican state legislators introduced a bill to prohibit sales of state lands to foreign governments, state enterprises and any company based in China, Russia or Saudi Arabia.

“There’s a perception that water goes to local uses,” said Andrew Curley, a professor of geography and the environment at the University of Arizona. “When you recognize it’s going far away, that the products and benefits of this water are exported overseas, that really provokes people’s attention.”

Foreign entities and individuals control roughly 3% of U.S. farmland, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Canada is the largest holder — mainly of forestland. Fourteen U.S. states have restrictions on foreign individuals or entities owning farmland, but limitations vary widely and no state completely prohibits it.

Fondomonte also farms in California’s Palo Verde Valley, an area that gets its water from the Colorado River. Those operations have attracted less scrutiny. And it’s not the only foreign company that farms in the Southwest. The United Arab Emirates-owned Al Dahra ACX Global Inc. grows forage crops in Arizona and California, and is a major North American exporter of hay.

U.S. farmers themselves export hay and other forage crops to the Middle East — mainly to Saudi Arabia. China is the primary export market for U.S. hay.

In Arizona, renewed attention to Fondomonte’s water use is raising questions about the state’s lack of regulation around pumping groundwater in rural parts of the state.

Phoenix, Tucson and other Arizona cities have restrictions on how much groundwater they can pump under a 1980 state law aimed at protecting the state’s aquifers. But in rural areas, little is required of water users besides registering wells with the state and using the water for activities, including farming that are deemed a “beneficial use.”

“Frankly, I believe they are not doing their jobs,” Mayes said about Arizona’s Department of Water Resources’ oversight of rural areas. The Department declined to comment on the revoked drilling permits or the need for more groundwater regulation.

Mayes, along with hydrologists and environmental advocates, says more studies are needed of groundwater basins in rural areas — such as La Paz County, an agricultural county of about 16,000 people. Currently, Arizona doesn’t measure how much groundwater users pump in such areas, which means there is little understanding of how much water an operation like Fondomonte — or other farms — uses.

Almarai’s holdings in the Southwest are just one example of the farmland the company and its subsidiaries operate outside Saudi Arabia. It farms tens of thousands of acres in Argentina, which has also faced severe drought conditions in recent years.

Holly Irwin, a member of the La Paz County Board of Supervisors, has long opposed Fondomonte using water in the county. She said she’s fielded complaints from residents for years that it’s getting harder to pump water in nearby wells and has repeatedly asked the state to do something about it.

“We need to have some sort of regulation so it’s not all just being pumped out of the ground,” Irwin said.

[chimeramoth]

a not-so-quick note about rainbow capitalism

capitalism, is capitalism. i have a lot of strong opinions about it and always complain about it to people. and when someone brings up a side effect of capitalism that they're not quite connecting the dots, i make an effort to point it out to them. it's a predatory and vicious system that cares about nothing but money number go up.

it doesn't matter if you work for a small chain or a mega chain of a business. their goals are the same: sell the items for the lowest price in the local area to defeat other stores in locality, make employee benefits look nice and great in comparison to the employee morale, and let a bunch of cases of harassment, discrimination, neglect, and unethical choices slide under the rug. my best advice is do not work for a mega chain store (if you are able) if you are mentally ill and/or disabled (and honestly if you are any kind person that can see all the problems going on, but i know that is more of an unrealistic dream for the time being).

but as for consuming capitalism, people will buy what they see. the rules don't matter. somebody somewhere will buy the cheaply made unethically sourced product that's right in front of their eyes, because that's how capitalism markets to their consumers. "check out this cool and pretty thing that we just got a shipment of. you don't see these things every day, now do you? pretty coooool, huhhhh? and for the low price of $xx.xx. can't beat that with a stick. how many other stores do you know have this item right now, ready, for this price? this is a opportunity for you, pal. better grab it before it's gone."

these systems are harder to take down as they are currently the systems holding up economy at the moment.

and when it comes to rainbow capitalism/pride merchandise, optically, this is a great thing.

because now that mega chain stores are offering these items for sale for anyone walking in, it's being casually advertised. its subconsciously persuasive to people who may have hesitant feelings, uncertainty, uncomfortableness, or questions on showing your pride. it's a casual suggestion that maybe people wearing rainbow clothes and capes and cheering and hugging are not so bad after all. if w*lmart is selling it out in the open, then maybe pride isn't actually about being degenerate or harming children or whatever. maybe pride... really is just a big party to a group of people.

the more that people see it, the more they are exposed to rainbow stickers and transgender flags, the less of a harsh reaction they will feel. exposure to diversity and inclusivity is greatly proven for coexisting among people that are different than you. and it works on everyone.

so with all of this said, if you are in a safe position to do so without a major risk threat of being harassed in public, if you see something you like that is readily available to you at your store, if you do not have the money or time to afford looking into more ethically acceptable merchandise from other stores, if it's not something that's going to harm your wallet.

then buy it. pick it up and put it in your cart if it brings you a little joy to your day. depending on where you live, you may want to mentally and socially prepare yourself in case anyone confronts you about it, but breathe in deeply and hold your chest up strong, and don't give them the hysterical reaction they're wanting out of you. they want you to feel guilt for being queer, but do your best to not let them have that satisfaction.

buy the little gay mass produced coffee mug, if it makes you happy. we cannot help the environment that we are forced to participate in, and if you want to use your money to have a little gay mug or gay towel or flag or pin or slippers, fuck it, yolo. enjoy the little opportunity of joy you have come across, and survive. live and survive until better times. when the better times come, you can bring out that little gay mug you bought 20 years ago and hold it like a little treasure, and talk about it and share it with loved ones, tell them about the tense hardships we have had to push through gritting our teeth through pain and fear, and tell them that you bought this little gay mug during that time to remind you that life is short and joy is priceless.

[chaeyoungshin]

A Rug Adds a Touch of Beauty to Your Room

Most of us enjoy to embellish our residence in our own method, placing in our personal touch in all the areas and also in every corner. We should not overlook the floorings. It not just enhances the elegance of the room yet additionally offers as a good location to sit as well as appreciate. Looking for indoor rugs to freshen up your tired decor? Check out these beautiful and affordable modern rug offers at rugsforlife.co.uk

According to the product utilised, carpets can be simply categorised as being wool carpets, silk rugs etc, and also they can be categorised as per the use they are placed.

Wool carpets have actually ended up being very popular these days among others readily available. They are made from the earliest textile fibres-wool, and as wool has always stood the test of time because of its distinct natural homes, carpets made of wool have the exact same advantages.

Wool rugs are of various kinds varying from standard, oriental, Persian, industrial, hand made, and also contemporary. Each stands as a masterpiece by itself. The top quality and costs of these wool rugs might be various depending upon the type of wool, as there have to do with 200 selections of lamb. The fibre would certainly differ significantly in texture across the body of an individual sheep, along with distinctions based on the sex of the sheep. It likewise depends on the nourishment of the sheep, their age and additionally basic wellness. Discover a huge range of wool and non wool, circular, rectangular and extra large rugs for sale at www.rug-world.co.uk

The fibre for the woollen carpets is chosen for sturdiness as well as long-wearing, and also is typically extreme inconsistency; unlike the delicate as well as soft fibres made use of for making coats and also gloves. The texture of the fibre is dependant on the level of scratchiness that is used in the finished rug, and the quality of completed fibre likewise relies on the fashion it is processed by the rug producers.

There are rugs made of various other fibres, wool stands out from all. It is possible that you might have to spend a great quantity of money, as woollen rugs set you back more than the normally readily available synthetic ones; yet woollen carpets supply long-term investment returns via improved longevity, and they are quite very easy to maintain.

In terms of wearability, wool rugs have an all-natural resistance to any kind of abrasion and it maintains its original look as well as really feel, be it the colour or appearance, longer than various other fibres. Wool rugs call for much less constant and also much less extensive wet cleaning than synthetics with responsive spot cleansing and also routine vacuuming. Wool carpets can be of terrific aid in keeping the temperature cosy or trendy depending on the season, as wool is understood to keep the setting cozy in the winter and cool in the summertime.

Wool rugs can be of excellent aid in maintaining the temperature level warm or trendy depending on the period, as wool is known to keep the atmosphere cosy in the wintertime and cool in the summertime.

[napobigme]

Impress Your Guests With Designer Home Area Rugs

It puts forth your attempts beneficial when you get praises from your companions and visitors on your home decorations. You love to see them standing and gazing at the inside decorations of your house and afterward respecting you for your breathtaking work to cause it to show up so astoundingly enchanting. You take great consideration of your home and attempt to keep it spotless and clear. You put engaging paint on the walls, get creative cuts on the roofs and put on decorative backdrops. Presently here comes your direction another visit site here affordable home decorating item which can embellish the floors of your home as well as it can give an entirely different focus on your house - the home area rugs.

Area rugs are not new terms in that frame of mind of home items. However, they were never utilized as home stylistic layout items. Their as a matter of some importance use was and stay to keep the house clean. They are brilliant dust safeguards and are likewise great safeguards of water and consequently they are additionally utilized in kitchen and restrooms. Yet, in the current days there quality and looks have gone through a radical change. They have become more satisfactory, more classy and these days they can be utilized for both cleaning as well as decorating reason.

Current area rugs are comprised of excellent materials and showcase the modern, snappy and contemporary plans. These rugs are machine launderable, wear obstruction and are eco-accommodating. The originator area rugs have fine developments which improve the vibe of your home and present the floors with an exemplary look. There are leaf and flower designs imprinted in square molded and round formed rugs which make certain to keep everybody flabbergasted. You can likewise buy kids area rugs which have charming characters like butterfly, bears, frogs and different creatures imprinted on them and cut into their shapes.

The exceptional surfaces of these originator rugs add warmth, solace, style and flexibility to the cold and dull floors of your house. Your visitors make certain to get dazzled with these home area rugs. The floors of your house wake up with these stylish rugs.

You can now likewise buy these area rugs online from the online sheet material stores where you will get a fine assortment of them. At a portion of the online sheet material stores these rugs are accessible on sale price. So if you buy them online then you can get them on fair arrangements.

[therugcollectivescintill]

Shop Premium Area Rugs, Washable Rugs & Kitchen Rugs | Rugs for Sale at The Rug Collective AU

Discover a wide range of high-quality area rugs, washable rugs, and kitchen rugs at The Rug Collective AU. Elevate your home decor with stylish, durable, and easy-to-clean rugs available for sale. Perfect for any space, our collection offers a variety of sizes, colors, and patterns to suit your unique style. Shop now and transform your home with affordable luxury!

[lakshmi-tata-chennai]

Where Innovation and Excellence Converge: Lakshmi Tata Showroom in Chennai

Tata Motors has long been a giant in India’s automobile industry, representing innovation, quality, and trust for decades. In Chennai, the Lakshmi Tata Showroom perfectly captures this legacy, bringing together cutting-edge technology and impeccable customer service. If you’re in the market for a vehicle that blends performance, luxury, and sustainability, Lakshmi Tata Showroom is where you want to be.

The Legacy of Tata Motors

Tata Motors, a brand that has shaped the landscape of India’s automobile industry, is synonymous with trust and innovation. Founded in 1945, Tata Motors is known for pioneering advancements that cater to both domestic and global markets. Their commitment to affordable luxury and sustainability has placed them at the forefront of the industry.

Tata Motors' Role in India's Automobile Revolution

Tata Motors revolutionized the Indian auto industry by introducing vehicles that appealed to both the common man and luxury-seeking consumers. Their lineup of cars, ranging from budget-friendly models to high-end luxury cars, reflects their versatile approach to catering to diverse customer needs.

Innovation as a Cornerstone of Tata’s Success

Tata Motors is driven by innovation. From the groundbreaking introduction of the Tata Nano, aimed at providing affordable mobility, to the Nexon EV, which demonstrates Tata’s leap into electric vehicles, innovation has always been a core value of the company.

Tata’s Impact on Global and Domestic Markets

Tata Motors is not limited to Indian roads. With a presence in over 125 countries, the company has left its footprint on international markets with acquisitions like Jaguar Land Rover, elevating its status in the global luxury car market.

Lakshmi Tata Showroom: A Pinnacle of Innovation

Lakshmi Tata Showroom, located in Chennai, is more than just a dealership; it's a center where Tata Motors’ vision of combining cutting-edge technology with exceptional customer service comes to life.

Location and Accessibility of Lakshmi Tata Showroom in Chennai

Situated in a prime area of Chennai, the showroom is easily accessible for both city dwellers and those from neighboring regions. Its central location ensures that customers can reach it with ease, contributing to the overall convenience and pleasant experience.

State-of-the-Art Infrastructure and Design

The moment you step into the Lakshmi Tata Showroom, you’re greeted with sleek, modern interiors designed to offer a seamless blend of comfort and technology. Spacious display areas, plush waiting lounges, and interactive sections give customers a first-hand experience of the Tata brand.

Customer-Centric Philosophy at Lakshmi Tata Showroom

At Lakshmi Tata, the customer always comes first. The staff is trained to prioritize customer needs, offering a consultative approach to car-buying rather than a pushy sales tactic. Whether you're buying your first car or upgrading to a new model, you’ll feel guided at every step.

Tata’s Car Portfolio at Lakshmi Tata Showroom

Lakshmi Tata Showroom showcases the entire range of Tata Motors' vehicles, from electric models to rugged SUVs and sleek sedans, all under one roof.

Showcasing Tata’s Electric Vehicle (EV) Line-up

One of the key highlights at Lakshmi Tata is the range of Tata’s electric vehicles (EVs), including the highly popular Nexon EV. With a focus on green technology, Tata’s EV line-up is an attractive option for environmentally conscious consumers.

Popular Models on Display: Nexon EV, Harrier, and Altroz

From the robust Tata Harrier to the stylish Altroz, customers can find a variety of models that suit different needs. Whether you're after the fuel efficiency of a sedan or the power of an SUV, Lakshmi Tata Showroom caters to all.

The Balance of Luxury and Affordability in Tata Cars

Tata Motors strikes the perfect balance between luxury and affordability. Models like the Tata Safari and Hexa offer premium features at competitive prices, making luxury more accessible to Indian consumers.

The Experience of Visiting Lakshmi Tata Showroom

Buying a car is more than just a transaction—it’s an experience. Lakshmi Tata Showroom takes this to heart by offering customers an immersive experience from start to finish.

Immersive Customer Experience

The showroom has been designed to engage all senses. Digital displays, ambient lighting, and a welcoming environment make the car-buying experience smooth and enjoyable. The showroom ensures that every visit feels special.

Personalized Test Drives and Consultations

Lakshmi Tata Showroom offers personalized consultations where trained professionals guide customers through their choices based on their needs. Customers can even schedule test drives that fit their convenience, helping them make informed decisions.

Interactive Displays and Technological Integration

Technology plays a key role at Lakshmi Tata. Interactive kiosks and augmented reality (AR) displays let customers explore vehicle features in-depth before making a purchase.

Commitment to Sustainability and Innovation

Tata Motors has always been ahead of the curve when it comes to environmental responsibility, and Lakshmi Tata in Chennai is no exception.

Tata’s Eco-Friendly Vehicle Line-up

With vehicles like the Nexon EV and Tigor EV, Tata is promoting sustainable, eco-friendly transportation options. These vehicles are showcased prominently in the showroom, reflecting Tata's commitment to reducing carbon footprints.

How Lakshmi Tata Promotes Green Technology in Chennai

Lakshmi Tata supports the adoption of green technology in Chennai by educating customers about the benefits of EVs and making electric mobility more accessible through competitive pricing and financial schemes.

Service Excellence at Lakshmi Tata

It’s not just about selling cars—Lakshmi Tata is committed to maintaining them through top-tier service.

Professional Expertise of Service Staff

The trained service staff at Lakshmi Tata provides thorough inspections, repairs, and maintenance, ensuring that your Tata vehicle remains in top shape long after the purchase.

Maintenance, Repairs, and After-Sales Service

Whether it’s a routine check-up or a major repair, Lakshmi Tata’s after-sales service is unmatched. Customers can expect timely service, transparency, and quality work every time they bring their vehicle in.

Customer Feedback and Loyalty Programs

Lakshmi Tata values customer feedback and continually enhances its services based on user input. The showroom also offers loyalty programs and discounts for returning customers, adding extra value to the ownership experience.

Financing and Purchase Options at Lakshmi Tata Showroom

Tata Motors has made owning a car easier with various financing and purchase options available at Lakshmi Tata.

Tata’s Competitive Pricing and EMI Schemes

The showroom offers competitive pricing for all Tata models, along with easy EMI options. This makes Tata cars accessible to a broader segment of consumers.

Financing Options for Different Customer Segments

Whether you're a salaried employee, a self-employed individual, or a first-time car buyer, there are tailored financing plans to suit every need.

Exclusive Offers and Discounts Available at Lakshmi Tata

Lakshmi Tata provides special discounts during festive seasons, trade-in offers, and exclusive deals for first-time buyers, ensuring customers always get the best value.

Customer Testimonials and Success Stories

Customers rave about their experiences at Lakshmi Tata. From the friendly staff to the seamless buying process, many have walked away with their dream car and a smile.

Stories of Satisfied Customers

Take the story of Suresh, a first-time buyer, who was overwhelmed by the choices. Thanks to the patient and knowledgeable staff at Lakshmi Tata, he drove home in a Tata Nexon EV, confident in his purchase.

How Lakshmi Tata Showroom Enhances the Car-Buying Journey

Lakshmi Tata’s team works to ensure every customer feels empowered and informed, which leads to higher satisfaction and lasting relationships with the brand.

Why Choose Lakshmi Tata Showroom in Chennai?

Lakshmi Tata in Chennai brings together everything that Tata Motors stands for—innovation, reliability, and world-class service.

Innovation, Service, and Value Combined

From cutting-edge technology to impeccable customer service, Lakshmi Tata offers an unparalleled car-buying experience. The emphasis on sustainability through Tata’s EV line-up is the cherry on top.

Tata’s Vision for the Future and Lakshmi’s Role in it

Lakshmi Tata is not just a showroom; it’s part of Tata Motors’ broader vision of leading the future of mobility, focusing on innovation and eco-friendly solutions.

Conclusion

Lakshmi Tata Showroom in Chennai is more than just a car dealership; it’s where innovation meets excellence. From a top-tier selection of Tata vehicles to unmatched customer service, Lakshmi Tata redefines the car-buying experience. With a focus on sustainability, technology, and customer satisfaction, this showroom is poised to be a central part of Chennai’s automotive future.