#bianca barber

[cevansbrat0007]

Preschool Brawl

Summary: You and Andy end up in the principal's office after BiBi has an altercation with a little boy at school. Andy Barber x Black!Reader, Bianca Barber

*Warnings: Fluff, Sad Bianca Barber, Angry/Protective Reader, Angry/Protective Andy, Cursing, Minors DNI

A/N: This is part of my ongoing Growing Pains Series. As always, I’d love your feedback, so please let me know what you think. Semi-proofread. Not beta’d. All mistakes are my own.

---

It was a Thursday afternoon. You and your husband had been called up to Bianca’s preschool because she had apparently punched another child. Which was so unlike her. Your baby was an absolute sweetheart!

Holding Andy’s hand, you cast a curious glance at the other couple sitting beside you. They were the parents of little Billy Robertson.   

“I’m sure you can see that we find their child’s behavior to be completely unacceptable. And we’d like to know what you plan to do about it.” Says Billy’s mother. 

What was her name again? Sandra? Susan? Regardless, the woman looked like she’d been sucking on a lemon.

Andy gives your hand a comforting squeeze. “What was Bianca’s reason for hitting him?” You ask. “Do you know?”

“Reason?” Shelly balks. “There is no reason! Your child shouldn’t have touched him! And furthermore -”

“Can you please let her answer the question?” Try as you might, you can’t keep the heat out of your tone.  

The director lets out a sigh. “Apparently Billy has been pinching her. Rather frequently.”

Andy looks at you and simply shakes his head. He knew that you were about to go off, and there was nothing he could do to stop it. Not that he would even try.  

“Our Billy would never -”

“Be quiet, Samantha.” You growl.

“It’s Stacy.”

“Don’t care. Now, do you know if Bianca ever told her teacher what was happening?” The woman sighs again and rests her clasped hands on her desk. “She did. And Ms. Johnson told me that she moved their seats, thinking that the matter would take care of itself.”

You. Were. Pissed.

“Okay, so wait. Just help me catch up so I can understand. Please. If this little boy has been pinching her, and she addressed it with their teacher, who did nothing, then why is she in trouble?”

“Because we don’t tolerate violence.” The woman behind the desk says.

“But clearly you do. If this boy has been pinching my child on what sounds like a regular basis, why wasn’t something done? And I know my baby told him to stop, because she is very, very verbal.” 

“And furthermore,” you turn your baleful glare towards Stephanie. “Why weren’t my husband and I informed of the issue before now?” 

You were going to hurt somebody. 

“As I said, it was being handled internally.” She responds in a clipped tone. 

“My wife is very, very right.” Andy chimes in. “You and your entire team were incredibly negligent here. You completely mishandled all of this. Frankly, I’m shocked. I’m not going to sugar coat it, but this is downright unacceptable.”  He finishes with a growl. 

“”Like I said, we tried to -”

“No! So my baby, who isn’t perfect, but she is the closest thing to it, chose to defend herself…all of the sudden we need to have a meeting?”

Oh good lord in heaven you were on fire. Andy rubs your back and mutters something about “you needing to calm down”.

“I am calm.” You tell him, hackles raised. “But this little boy has apparently been hurting our BiBi on the regular and this administration has said nothing until now. And now my sweet baby is the problem.”

“Honey, we’re going to sort it out.” He assures you.

“Yes, we will. You had better believe it!”

Sherri looks at you and offers you a fake smile. “I think that maybe our son likes your daughter and that’s why he maybe pinches her. It’s kid stuff, but that’s no reason for her to punch him.”

“Sweetheart.” Oh yeah, you were done. “First of all, this isn’t just kid stuff. If I lean over and pinch you right now, if I did that to you, you would want to fight. I know I would. It is the fucking twenty first century, excuse my language, but we need to stop this whole boys will be boys thing. Do you think I went and pinched my husband when I realized I liked him? No!”

I mean, you could’ve… Andy thinks to himself. Probably would’ve fallen for you even harder.

“My wife is right, we should have been notified of the issue way before now. You and your team screwed up in a big way, and we do not appreciate it.” Andy tells the director. Oh, your man was using his attorney voice. Sexy.

“I’m over this. It’s clear that our daughter did nothing wrong. I will always teach my baby that it’s important for her to defend herself.” Your man makes it clear that he is very annoyed. “Hopefully your son has learned his lesson.” 

“Let’s go, Andrew.” You stand up. You needed to go hold your baby. 

“We are not done here, Mr. and Mrs. Barber.”

“Yes we are.” Andy growls. “You let either one of us hear that something has happened to our daughter while at your school, under your administration, and I promise that you will have a serious problem on your hands.” 

“That’s right,” you echo. “And I swear you ain’t never seen a fire like the one I’ma cause.” She blanches at that. And so do the asshole kid’s parents. They clearly didn’t know that you were quoting Beyonce, and that was okay with you.

“Sally. David. Keep your kid away from ours and you won’t have to deal with us again. And maybe teach him some flipping manners if you can find the time.” You take Andy’s hand and walk out.

“It’s Stacy and Devon!” She screeches. 

“Don’t care!” You sing as Andy leads you out of the room. 

You both walk down the hall to find your baby. Poor thing was probably tired. When you get to her classroom you see her sitting in her assigned seat wearing her little backpack. Her head is resting on the desk, and one of her pigtails has come undone. 

“BiBi.” Andy says. “It’s time to go home, sweetie.” He calls softly. Immediately she gets up and runs to you both. She grabs your hand and buries her face in her Daddy’s leg as she sobs.

“BiBi is sorry for being bad! She so sorry!” You and Andy share a worried look. “I be good, I promise! Please don’t give me away.” 

She cries harder with every word. “Wuv Mama, wuv Daddy. Please don’t send BiBi away. I be better!” 

Huh? Your husband appears equally horrified. You go to pick her up, which proves to be a challenge since she refuses to let go of Andy. 

“Bianca.” You coo in your gentlest voice. “Baby. Calm down.” Unsure of what else to do, you sink to your knees and pry her tiny hands from Andy’s pants, which only makes her wrap her arms around you and hold on for dear life.”

“Mama, pwease! No go!” Her tears are drenching your shirt. 

“Bianca Maria Barber. Look at me right now.” Andy softly orders. Lifting her tear-stained face, she does as he asks. “Let Daddy make something very, very clear. Are you listening, baby girl?” She nods as you rub her back.

“Your Mama and I love you. And we would never, ever, give you away. Do you understand me?”

Your baby nods again. 

“Why did you think that, BiBi? Tell Mama and Daddy why.” You ask as you pepper her little face with kisses.

“Cuz Billy tell me. He say dat you no love me no more after I hit him.” 

“Okay.” You were going to find that kid, and dangle him from the monkey bars until he peed his pants.

“He say you gonna send BiBi away and get a new girl. Better girl.” She begins to cry all over again. “But Daddy he pinch me. Lots. I say no. I tell teacher. BiBi got mad. So she hit.”

“You’re okay.” Andy grumbles, pissed at the world. “BiBi, you are fine. We’re not mad at you. This was not your fault. And Daddy is proud of you for standing up for yourself, okay?”

“Daddy no hate?” 

Andy plucks your daughter from your arms faster than you can blink. “Your Daddy could never hate you. Your Daddy loves you. He adores you. You are the best thing that ever happened to me, short of meeting your Mama.”

“Wuv you.” She whispers, as she looks into her Daddy’s eyes.

“I love you too.” He gruffly responds, his voice thick with emotion. “Now I’m taking my girls out for ice cream. After all this, Daddy could seriously use some Starrsbury right about now.”

END

[nidakhurshidupdates]

chelssbarberhairstylist: That’s a season Wrap on @thecwwinchesters We love y’all so much! Thank you @megdonnelly @drakerodger @nidakhurshid_ @jojoflei_ @misskajlich @demetria4real Y’all are beautiful souls!! @jensenackles #thewinchesters A big thank you for my team @iamallthingsmiranda @hollygmanders and all the Additionals who came to help us! Especially @chantellecalmes fotkaing in Limbo the clown! @alifemadeup @everettbrannonmua @the_marvelous_mrs.mora @ashleykent.makeup @thestah

[musical-dreamcasts]

Starlight Express - Nancy Anderson (she/her) as Dinah the Dining Car, requested by anon

Birthday: April 22, 1972 (age 50)

Birth Place: Boston, Massachusetts

Theatre credits include: Lois Lane/Bianca (Kiss Me, Kate), Mona (A Class Act), Ensemble/Understudy Norma Desmond (Sunset Boulevard), George Read (1776), Violet Bick (A Wonderful Life), Bet (Oliver!), Emma Fairfax/Fox (Doctor Dolittle), Johanna Barker (Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street), Ilona Ritter (She Loves Me), Clara Oakes (A Man’s World), Little Dorritt (A Dangerous Personality)

(Pictured on the right is Rose Oullette, who played the role in the 30th anniversary Bochum production)

Credits: David Gordon, Unknown

[apoptoses]

1. What was the first fandom and/or pairing that you wrote fic for?

30. Tell us an idea for a longfic you want to write in the future. 👀👀👀

What was the first fandom and/or pairing that you wrote fic for?

Wow, this is actually a challenge to answer because I know objectively that I was into fandom stuff from about age 13. But as far as memories go I have so very little from before I was ~22. There's a chance that I could have written some Queer as Folk in my youth, or some Supernatural. Or even some Loustat, I loved Interview with the Vampire so much when I was in high school. But I just don't know.

I did play with some Hannigram about 7 years ago, but nothing serious. Just a little 800 word ficlet here or there.

This is really the first time I've taken fic writing seriously and dug into a character I love.

30. Tell us an idea for a longfic you want to write in the future.

So there's a couple things, one that I definitely plan to do and one that's more tenuous.

I'm definitely doing a fourth installment of Come Pull My Strings that involves Armand and Daniel's first home in London. I really want to explore Armand's questionable care and keeping of his mortal (it's hard for him to remember Daniel needs to do stuff like get groceries now that they're not in a hotel with room service available) and Daniel trying to set some boundaries (he needs one night off a week to revive himself on the couch, no orchestra, no parties, just some shitty tv and Armand allowing him to order a takeout)

I also have a vague idea of them doing some serious bloodplay with an old fashioned barber's razor and Daniel's pale and pretty back, and/or finally exploring Armand's urge to make him lick a plate within that fic but we'll see how that shakes out.

Something I have the urge to do but is on the back burner right now is an exploration of Armand uniting his past and his present. I want him to deal with Bianca, Riccardo, and Marius (not even necessarily in that immediate reunion during PL, further down the line when the dust has settled and they have nothing but time to figure out Amadeo vs Armand).

And I want Daniel there somehow. Maybe part of it would be through his eyes, of him interviewing them about Armand to make a single copy of a book that only Armand will ever get to read.

I don't know, it's all very tenuous but I'm too attached to Armand's people from Venice to let them go.

[akemansimblog]

Once in the emperor's palace, Bianca immediately went to the tailor and barber. And she was transformed beyond recognition. Of course, the Emperor knew that he was facing a Southern widow from the East, but he could hardly guess the girl's intentions. Bianca was reminded of the teachings of Laetitia, who had been to the palace more often than anyone else and knew whom to trust and whom not to trust. And lastly she rubbed herself in the trust of the younger Arias' old southern slave nurse. They had much to discuss.

[lamilanomagazine]

Vicenza: Giorno del Ricordo, venerdì 9 e sabato 10 febbraio le cerimonie per commemorare le vittime delle foibe e dell’esodo giuliano dalmata

Vicenza: Giorno del Ricordo, venerdì 9 e sabato 10 febbraio le cerimonie per commemorare le vittime delle foibe e dell’esodo giuliano dalmata. Per celebrare il Giorno del Ricordo, che ricorre il 10 febbraio e commemora i massacri delle foibe e l’esodo giuliano dalmata nel secondo dopoguerra, venerdì 9 e sabato 10 febbraio sono previste due cerimonie istituzionali organizzate dal Comune di Vicenza in collaborazione con l'Associazione Nazionale Venezia Giulia e Dalmazia (ANVGD) - sezione di Vicenza, a cui saranno presenti il sindaco Giacomo Possamai, il prefetto Salvatore Caccamo e le autorità civili e militari. All'ex collegio Opera Pia Cordellina (sede della scuola media Giuriolo, in contra’ Santa Maria Nova) venerdì 9 febbraio alle 9.30 verrà deposta una corona d'alloro in memoria degli esuli italiani che il 3 febbraio 1947 trovarono rifugio in questo luogo, che all'epoca era sede del convento di Santa Maria Nova. Sarà presente una delegazione del liceo scientifico Lioy e dell'istituto comprensivo 5 con la dirigente Bianca Maria Lerro. Al cimitero Maggiore, sabato 10 febbraio alle 10, verrà deposta una corona d'alloro sul monumento dedicato a tutte le vittime delle foibe e dell’esodo dalle loro terre degli italiani di Istria, Fiume e Dalmazia. Il Comune di Vicenza, in collaborazione con la Biblioteca civica Bertoliana, il Conservatorio di musica Pedrollo, la Fondazione Teatro Comunale Città di Vicenza e la sezione di Vicenza dell’Associazione nazionale Venezia Giulia e Dalmazia (Anvgd), propone un nutrito calendario di appuntamenti fino al 22 febbraio, tra cerimonie istituzionali, spettacoli, concerti, presentazioni di libri e letture ad alta voce con laboratori nelle biblioteche di quartiere della città. Le scuole saranno coinvolte giovedì 8 febbraio alle 10, nella Sala del Ridotto del Teatro Comunale Città di Vicenza, in occasione dello spettacolo teatrale "Passi" con Farmacia Zooè. Nell'ambito della rassegna "Sabati musicali" sabato 10 febbraio alle 17 nella sede di Palazzo Cordellina (Biblioteca civica Bertoliana) si potrà assistere al concerto "Adagio di Samuel Barber trascritto per coro di flauti". Ingresso libero fino ad esaurimento dei posti disponibili. Evento organizzato dal Conservatorio di musica A. Pedrollo, in collaborazione con Biblioteca Bertoliana. Informazioni: 0444 578211, consulenza.bertoliana@comune.vicenza.it Gli ultimi due eventi in calendario sono organizzati da Comune di Vicenza, in collaborazione con Associazione Nazionale Venezia Giulia e Dalmazia (ANVGD), ad ingresso libero fino ad esaurimento dei posti disponibili: la Sala degli Stucchi di Palazzo Trissino lunedì 12 febbraio alle 17.30 ospiterà l'incontro "Il Giorno del Ricordo e le istituzioni vent’anni dopo" con Davide Rossi dell'Università di Trieste; a Palazzo Cordellina giovedì 22 febbraio alle 17.30 verrà presentato il libro di Roberto Spazzali, "Pola. Città perduta. L'agonia, l'esodo (1945-47)", Ares 2022. Informazioni 0444 578211, consulenza.bertoliana@comune.vicenza.it La Biblioteca Bertoliana, inoltre, ha predisposto un programma di letture ad alta voce con laboratorio nelle sede succursali dal titolo "Ricordiamoci la pace" dal 5 al 19 febbraio. Ai bambini tra i 6 e i 10 anni sono dedicate le letture, a cura della Cooperativa Socioculturale-Biblioteca Bertoliana, di lunedì 5 febbraio alle 17.00 nella sede di Anconetta, in via Dall'Acqua 16 (informazioni e prenotazioni 0444578264, anconetta.bertoliana@comune.vicenza.it) e di mercoledì 7 febbraio alle 16.30 nella sede di Riviera Berica, viale Riviera Berica 631 (informazioni e prenotazioni 0444578262, rberica.bertoliana@comune.vicenza.it). L'appuntamento di venerdì 9 febbraio alle 16.45 nella sede di Palazzo Costantini, in contra’ Riale 13, è rivolto ai bambini dai 4 anni ed è a cura delle volontarie della Biblioteca Bertoliana Marta Peruffo e Giuliana Serblin (informazioni e prenotazioni 0444578223, pcostantini.bertoliana@comune.vicenza.it). Giovedì 15 febbraio alle 16.45 nella sede di Villa Tacchi, viale della Pace 89, Maria Grazia Cristino, Annarosa Favero e Renata Serra intratterranno i bambini tra i 6 e i 10 anni (informazioni e prenotazioni 0444578263, vtacchi.bertoliana@comune.vicenza.it). Nella sede di Laghetto, in via Lago di Pusiano 3, venerdì 16 febbraio alle 16.30 le letture, a cura di Daniela Bilibio, saranno rivolte a bambini dai 6 anni (informazioni e prenotazioni 0444578265, laghetto.bertoliana@comune.vicenza.it). Infine lunedì 19 febbraio alle 16.30 nella sede di Villaggio del Sole, in via Colombo 41/A, AGESCI Vicenza 1 accoglierà i bambini tra 4 e 8 anni (Info e prenotazioni: 0444 578266 | vsole.bertoliana@comune.vicenza.it) Calendario delle iniziative al link... #notizie #news #breakingnews #cronaca #politica #eventi #sport #moda Read the full article

[personal-reporter]

Summer Jamboree 2023 a Senigallia

Dal 29 luglio al 6 agosto torna a Senigallia uno degli eventi simbolo dell’estate, Summer Jamboree, il Festival Internazionale di musica e cultura dell’America del secondo dopoguerra più grande al mondo, punto di riferimento internazionale per tutti gli appassionati di quell'epoca. Saranno nove giorni di divertimento, all’insegna del Rock’n’Roll e dello Swing, con  artisti internazionali tra  il R'n'R, lo Swing, il Country, il Rockabilly, il Rhythm’n’Blues, il Hillbilly, il Doo-wop e per il Western swing. Tra gli special guests ci sarà Pokey La Farge, cantautore statunitense ed erede dei grandi maestri del passato e innovatore del genere con il suo eclettismo e il suo stile scanzonato, ma colto.  che mescola hot swing, early jazz e ragtime blues. Da non perdere anche Glenn Doran, astro nascente della countryside, Pachuco Jose, Jay Ernest con un incredibile a Johnny Cash e la reunion dei The Di Maggio Bros, unica band italiana che fa parte della Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Insieme a loro ci saranno tantissimi artisti in arrivo da tutto il mondo che daranno vita a un ricco cartellone di grandi concerti ad ingresso gratuito, con tante esclusive nazionali e internazionali. E a fare gli onori di casa in veste di presentatori del Festival sono il performer e coreografo Russler Bruner e la pioniera del Bump&Grind in Italia, Bianca Nevius. Per chi è alle prime armi ci sono gli incredibili spazi dedicati al ballo, con lezioni gratuite per imparare a muovere i primi passi e immergersi nel mondo dello Swing e Rock’n’Roll, e il Summer Jamboree Dance Camp, una full immersion dedicata all'apprendimento, con alcuni tra i migliori ballerini della scena internazionale. Non mancherà l'altro evento diventato un’icona del Summer Jamboree,  il Burlesque Cabaret, Music and Dance Show al Teatro La Fenice il 4 agosto, dove si esibiscono i più famosi artisti di Burlesque al mondo. Inoltre ci saranno il Rockin’ Village Vintage Market, con oltre 70 espositori selezionati di abbigliamento vintage, scarpe, accessori, oggettistica e riproduzioni, modernariato e memorabilia da collezione; il Barber Shop,  l’Oldtimers Park con le Auto americane prima del 1969, tra cui alcuni preziosi esemplari della Fondazione Nicola Bulgari e il Walk-in Tattoo, con i tatuaggi tradizionali. A grande richiesta, dopo l’anno scorso, torna l’Hawaiian Beach, insieme al tradizionale appuntamento diurno al Mascalzone sul Lungomare dalle 12 alle 19, in quello che è divenuto da tempo un momento di ritrovo per tutti gli appassionati del Festival. Read the full article

[parkerbombshell]

Addictions and Other Vices 915 – Colour Me Friday

Addictions and Other Vices Fridays 3pm Repeats Saturday 3pm EST and Sunday 8am EST  bombshellradio.com #NowPlaying #indie #rock #alternative #Synthpop #indierock #community #radio #BombshellRadio #DJ #AddictionsPodcast #NewMusic #ColourMeFriday #Radio247 New Indie finds, previews of Just Another Menace Sunday artists coming up this weekend into next week ala Dennis The Menace, and Alex Green of Stereo Embers The Podcast and Bernard Frazer of The Essence of Cool and Sandy Kaye of A Breath of Fresh Air. Discoveries from our social media followers and a few more surprises. Thanks to all the artists, labels and PR companies that submitted tracks this week. Photography : efes Fix Mix 915 - Kelly Time / Owl City - Nothing Left To Lose / Everything But The Girl - Panopticom (Bright Side Mix) / Peter Gabriel - Nelly / Pomme - un million / Pomme - Good Lovin' - Single Version / The Young Rascals - Black Gold (2022 Remaster) / Soul Asylum - Courage (For Hugh MacLennan) / The Tragically Hip - Buy Me A Million Dollars / Love Tractor - Lost Without You / Freya Ridings - Lights / Band of Horses - Mercy / Suzanne Santo - Waterfront / Simple Minds - Traffic / Simple Minds / Russell Mael - Last Of The Red Hot Fools / The Jitters - I Don't Know / Blair Packham - Consequences / Kate Davis - You Can't Keep It From Me Forever / Peter Doherty, Frédéric Lo - Broken Things / K.C. Clifford - Never Gonna Give You Up / Milo Greene - Anything / Frankie Rose - Domino / Nicole Atkins - Homemaker / Jill Barber - Hurricane / MS MR - Bored / Low Girl - Fables - Edit / Interpol - Sideways Skull / The Hold Steady - I Need Ya / Somebody's Child INTERVIEWS THIS WEEK Friday January 20 Stereo Embers The Podcast w / Jim Kerr (Simple Minds) Rainbow Country  w / Vacaya LGBT+ Vacations Reimagined The Essence of Cool  w / Leslie Stanwyk (Universal Honey) Just Another Menace Sunday w/ Pomme A Breath of Fresh Air  w / Felix Cavaliere ( The Rascals) Saturday January 21  Stereo Embers The Podcast w /  Mark Cline (Love Tractor) Just Another Menace Sunday w/ Freya Ridings Sunday January 22 Stereo Embers The Podcast w / Suzanne Santo (honeyhoney) The Essence of Cool  w / Blair Packham Just Another Menace Sunday w/  TBA Just Another Menace Sunday w/ Kate Davis Monday January 23 Stereo Embers The Podcast w / K.C. Clifford Just Another Menace Sunday w/Milo Green Tuesday January 24 Stereo Embers The Podcast w / Author Bianca Marais (Hum If You Don't Know The Words) A Breath of Fresh Air  w / Just Another Menace Sunday w/ Nicole Atkins Rainbow Country w / TBA Wednesday January 25  Stereo Embers The Podcast w / Author Hannah Sward (Strip) Just Another Menace Sunday w/  TBA Just Another Menace Sunday w/ MS MR Thursday January 26 Stereo Embers The Podcast w / Jim Kerr (Simple Minds) Stereo Embers The Podcast w / TBA Just Another Menace Sunday w/ Interpol Addictions and Other Vices Read the full article

[kley-blog]

Well, nothing like channeling Christmas a little early . . .

Gets it all over and done with . . .

A frightfully post-post modern Christmas it is too . . .

So many twists and references . . .

I suppose I would have to watch it frequently for several decades and really do my homework to catch them all . . .

But . . .

That’s Hollywood . . .

Particularly durning Christmas madness . . .

Enjoy . . .

[savewritingnsw]

Save Writing NSW

An open letter to Create NSW and the NSW Minister for the Arts

We, as writers and active members of the literary community, were dismayed by Create NSW’s decision not to grant Writing NSW Multi-Year Organisations Funding in their latest round, despite the fact that Writing NSW was recommended for funding.

This decision demonstrates the ongoing devaluation of literature within the Australian arts funding landscape. We know literature is the most popular artform in the country, with 87% of Australian reading some form of literary work in any given year, yet in this round Create NSW offered only 5.7% of their ongoing funding to literature organisations.

The decision to defund Writing NSW carries a particular sting. Writing NSW is the leading organisation representing writers in a state with a long literary history and one that is home to many of Australia’s leading publishers, writers, literary agents and other core participants in the Australian literary industry.

Writing NSW is an important stepping-stone for writers at the beginning of their careers, providing high quality professional development programs, and it also employs emerging and established writers to deliver and lead these programs. For decades the organisation has provided high-quality courses, seminars, workshops, festivals, events, grants and literary prizes. In putting such programs at risk, Create NSW is jeopardising both an entry point and an ongoing support system for writers.

Macquarie University research shows that the average income of an Australian author from their practice is $12,900. The current economic crisis caused by the coronavirus pandemic makes the situation of writers even more precarious. Writing NSW offers key employment opportunities to writers, through teaching, publication, speaking engagements and both curatorial and judging positions. The removal of these opportunities will mean many writers will not be able to maintain the other income streams that support their writing careers.

The removal of $175,000 from a single source would be catastrophic for any business – not-for-profit or otherwise. For a government funding body to enact such a blunt economic withdrawal in the midst of a global pandemic and without concern for the economic flow-on effect to hundreds of industry professionals is deeply distressing.

We call on Create NSW to reverse this decision and ask them to reveal their future strategies for arts funding and how they plan to rectify the disparity in funding between other funded artforms and literature.

As writers, we will never accept the loss of a vibrant, essential cultural network such as Writing NSW.

What you can do We invite anyone affected by Create NSW’s decision – writers, publishers, literary agents, illustrators, readers alike – to co-sign this letter. You can copy and customise this letter to draft a version from your own point of view on this matter to send to a Member of Parliament.

To co-sign this letter, add your name here: shorturl.at/dERX6

Signatories

Pip Smith, Writer, creative writing teacher Sam Twyford-Moore, Writer and arts administrator Fiona Wright, Writer, editor, critic, reader Gabrielle Tozer, Author, writer, editor Brigid Mullane, Editor Jules Faber, Author, Illustrator Dr Christopher Richardson, Author and academic Liz Ledden, Author, podcaster, book reviewer Kate Tracy Ashley Kalagian Blunt, Writer, reviewer, reader Julie Paine, Writer Nick Tapper, Editor Belinda Castles, Writer and academic Simon Veksner, Writer Amanda Ortlepp, Writer, reader, reviewer, High School English Teacher Bronwyn Birdsall, Writer, editor Robin Riedstra, Writer, reviewer, reader, English teacher Dr Delia Falconer, Writer, critic, academic Robert McDonald, Author, writer, creative writing teacher Dr Kathryn Heyman, Author Wai Chim, Author Kirsten Krauth, Writer, editor Tricia Dearborn, Poet, writer, editor Dr Mireille Juchau, Writer Gail Jones, Writer Dr Jeff Sparrow, Writer, editor, academic Linda Jaivin, Writer, editor, translator Adara Enthaler, Poet, editor, literary arts manager Keighley Bradford, Writer, editor, arts and festival administrator Nicole Priest, Reader and aspiring writer Shamin Fernando, Writer Andrew Pippos, Writer Bianca Nogrady, Writer and journalist James Bradley, Writer Ali Jane Smith, Writer Dr Eleanor Limprecht Idan Ben-Barak, Writer Jennifer Mills, Writer Nicole Hayes, Writer, podcaster Michelle Starr, Writer/journalist Phillipa McGuinness, Writer and publisher Vanessa Berry, Writer and academic Blake Ayshford, Screenwriter Emily Maguire, Writer Sarah Lambert, Screenwriter Anwen Crawford, Writer Sarah Bassiuoni, Screenwriter Jackson Ryan, Writer, journalist, academic Simon Thomsen, Journalist, editor, other wordy stuff Ivy Shih, Writer Miro Bilbrough, Writer, filmmaker, screenwriting teacher, script editor Graham Davidson, Writer, artist, festival director Christos Tsiolkas, Writer JZ Ting, Writer, lawyer Susan Francis, Writer, teacher Suneeta Peres da Costa, Writer Dr Harriet Cunningham, Writer, critic, journalist Adele Dumont, Writer, reader Sheree Strange, Writer, book reviewer, book seller Phil Robinson, Reader Ashleigh Meikle, Reader, writer, book blogger Naomi RIddle, Writer, editor Cathal Gwatkin-Higson, Writer, book seller Hannah Carroll Chapman, Screenwriter Angela Meyer, Writer, editor Steve Blunt, Reader, supporter Ambra Sancin, Writer, arts administrator Michelle Baddiley, Writer, reader, archive producer Dinuka McKenzie, Writer, reader Catherine C. Turner, Writer, reader, freelance editor and publisher, arts worker Hilary Davidson, Writer, poet, academic, reader Dr Eleanor Hogan, Writer Nicola Robinson, Commissioning Editor Kim Wilson, Screenwriter Jane Nicholls, Freelance writer and editor Lisa Kenway, Writer Virginia Peters, Writer Sarah Sasson, Physician-writer and reader Dr Joanna Nell, Writer Laura Clarke Author / Copywriter Nicole Reddy, Screenwriter Anna Downes, Writer Sharon Livingstone, Writer, editor, reader Lily Mulholland, Writer, screenwriter, technical editor Benjamin Dodds, Poet, reviewer, teacher Markus Zusak, Writer Alexandria Burnham, Writer, screenwriter Sam Coley, Writer Marian McGuinness, Writer Selina McGrath, Artist Adeline Teoh Natasha Rai, Writer Catherine Ferrari, Reader Jessica White, Writer & academic Zoe Downing, Writer, reader, creative writing student Amanda Tink, Writer, researcher, reader Lisa Nicol, Children's author, screenwriter, copywriter Aurora Scott, Writer Gillian Polack, Writer, academic Susan Lever, Critic and writer Denise Kirby, Writer Michele Seminara, Poet & editor Meredith Curnow, Publisher, Penguin Random House David Ryding, Arts Manager Catherine Hill Genevieve Buzo, Editor Hugo Wilcken DJ Daniels, Writer Linda Vergnani, Freelance journalist, writer and editor Tony Spencer-Smith, Author, writing trainer & editor Dr Viki Cramer, Freelance writer and editor Petronella McGovern, Author, freelance writer and editor Jacqui Stone, Writer and editor Talia Horwitz, Writer, reader & writing student Sophie Ambrose, Publisher, Penguin Random House Rebecca Starford, Publishing director, KYD; editor and writer David Blumenstein, Writer, artist Rashida Tayabali, Freelance writer Sheila Ngoc Pham, Writer, editor and producer Rosalind Gustafson, Writer Alan Vaarwerk, Editor, Kill Your Darlings Gillian Handley, Editor, journalist, writer Karina Machado Isabelle Yates, Commissioning Editor, Penguin Random House Michelle Barraclough, Writer Natalie Scerra, Writer Melanie Myers, Writer, editor and Creative Writing teacher Emily Lawrence, Aspiring Writer Nicola Aken, Screenwriter Jennifer Nash, Librarian, writer Clare Millar, Writer and editor Kathryn Knight, Editor, Penguin Random House Linda Funnell, Editor, reviewer, tutor, Newtown Review of Books Stacey Clair, Editor, writer, former events/projects producer at Queensland Writers Centre Virginia Muzik, Writer, copyeditor, proofreader, aspiring author Lisa Walker, Writer Sarah Morton, Copywriter, aspiring author, Member of Writing NSW Board Laura Russo, Writer and editor Vivienne Pearson, Freelance writer Justin Ractliffe, Publishing Director, Penguin Random House Australia James Ley, Contributing Editor, Sydney Review of Books Alison Urquhart, PublisherPenguin Random House Debra Adelaide, Author and associate professor of creative writing, University of Technology Sydney Magdalena Ball, Writer, Reviewer, Compulsive Reader Anna Spargo-Ryan, Writer, writing teacher, editor, reader Charlie Hester, Social media & project officer, Queensland Writers Centre Mandy Beaumont, Writer, researcher and reviewer Chloe Barber-Hancock, Writer, reader, pre-service teacher Dr Patrick Mullins, Academic and writer Wendy Hanna, Screenwriter Chloe Warren Dianne Masri, Social Media Consultant Jane Gibian, Writer, librarian, reader Dr Airlie Lawson, Academic and writer Karen Andrews, Writer, teacher, reader Tim Coronel, General manager, Small Press Network and Industry adjunct lecturer, University of Melbourne Tommy Murphy, Playwright and screenwriter Evlin DuBose, Editor, writer, screenwriter, director, poet, UTS's Vertigo Magazine Tony Maniaty, Writer Emma Ashmere, Writer, reader, teacher Alicia Gilmore, Writer Suzanne O'Sullivan, Publisher, Hachette Australia Jacqui DentWriter, Content Strategist Rachel Smith, Writer Intan Paramaditha, Writer Cassandra Wunsch, Director TasWriters (The Tasmanian Writers Centre) Meera Atkinson Eileen Chong, Poet, Writer, Educator Debra Tidball, Author, reviewer Beth Spencer, Author, poet, reader Lou Pollard, Comedy writer, blogger Bronwyn Stuart/Tilley, Author and program coordinator, Writers SA Gemma Patience, Writer, illustrator, reviewer Amarlie Foster, Writer, teacher Dr Felicity Plunkett, writer Angela Betzien Drew Rooke, Journalist and author Michael Mazengarb, Journalist RenewEconomy Katrina Roe, Children's author, broadcaster, audiobook narrator Liz Doran, Screenwriter Arnold Zable, Writer. Tom Langshaw, Editor, Penguin Random House Brooke Maddison Monica O'Brien, ProducerAmbience Entertainment Jacinta Dimase, Literary AgentJacinta Dimase Management Jane Novak, Literary AgentJane Novak Literary Agency Sarah Hollingsworth, Arts Organisation ManagerMarketing and Communications Manager, Writers Victoria Barbara Temperton, Writer Sandra van Doorn, Publisher Red Paper Kite Alex Eldridge, Writer Karen Beilharz, Writer, editor, comic creator Esther Rivers, Writer, editor, poet Jane Pochon, Board Member, lawyer and reader Zoe Walton, Publisher, Penguin Random House Eliza Twaddell Alison Green, CEO, Board Member, Pantera Press Emma Rafferty, Editor Sarah Swarbrick, Writer Dayne Kelly, Literary Agent, RGM Léa Antigny, Head of Publicity and Communications, Pantera Press Jenny Green, Finance, Pantera Press Sarah Begg, Writer Mark Harding, Writer, Brand Manager, Social Media and Content Specialist Shanulisa Prasad, Bookseller Katy McEwen, Rights Manager, Pantera Press Olivia Fricot, Content Writer/Bookseller, Booktopia Jack Peck, Writer, Open Genre Group Convenor, Writing NSW, Retired Kathy Skantzos, Writer, Editor Serene Conneeley, Author, Editor Kerry Littrich, Writer Merran Hughes, Creative Cassie Watson, Writer Lisa Seltzer, Copywriter, Social Media Manager and Marketing Consultant Gemma Noon, Writer and Librarian Tanya Tabone, Reader Laura Franks, Reader, Editor, Writer Dani Netherclift, Writer Who to contact We urge you to join us in advocating for Writing NSW and the state of funding for Australian literature, by contacting Create NSW, your NSW Member of Parliament, and the NSW Minister for the Arts.

Chris Keely Executive Director, Create NSW Email: chris.keely@create.nsw.gov.au

The Hon. Don Harwin, MLC Phone: (02) 8574 7200 Email: office@harwin.minister.nsw.gov.au

Who to else to contact

The Hon. (Walt) Walter Secord, MLC Shadow Minister for the Arts Phone: (02) 9230 2111 Email: walt.secord@parliament.nsw.gov.au Ms. Cate Faehrmann, MLC Greens representative for Arts, Music, Night-Time Economy and Culture Phone: (02) 9230 3771 Email: cate.faehrmann@parliament.nsw.gov.au A full list of names and contact details for NSW State MPs is available here.

[cevansbrat0007]

Ten Foot Pole: A Growing Pains Drabble

Summary: Morning sickness is the devil. Andy Barber x Black!Reader

*Warnings: Worried Andy, Sick Reader, Pregnant Reader, Vomit, Thoughts of Murder, Cursing, Minors DNI

A/N: Part of the Growing Pains Series. As always, I’d love your feedback, so please let me know what you think. Semi-proofread. Not beta’d. All mistakes are my own.

___

“Y/N, baby, uh, shit. What can I do?” A worried looking Andy asks as he watches you heave into the toilet yet again.

“Ungh. Nothing, Andy. Please just go away.” You were pretty sure that you had just vomited up your small intestine. It was like this every morning, and at nearly three months along, you still hated it.

“But I - I…baby girl.”

“Oh my god, Andrew. There’s nothing -” You’re cut off as you gag again, and then again. God, how was there anything even left in your stomach?

“Do you want some water, maybe? Would that help?” Your man is clearly dancing on pins and needles as he holds your hair back for you.

So kind. You think to yourself. Especially considering the fact that he’s the one who did this to you. If you survived, you were never having sex again. You would spring for separate beds, a la I Love Lucy. 

“Should we go to the hospital or something?” He presses a kiss to your temple.

“Andy, I smell.” You tell him. “Stop it. And no. This sucks, but it’s normal.”

“Just give me something to do, other than holding your hair back, baby!”

“Argh! You know what you can do? After this, don’t come near me. Do not touch me with a ten foot pole, understand? Because after I have this baby -” Gags. “We are never having sex again. You just keep your -” Gags. “Just keep your distance.”

“I don’t - I don’t think that’s possible.” Your husband mutters. “I love you too much.”

It’s never to early to believe in yourself, honey.

“Yeah, well, who’s fault is that? I don’t need to hear your voice or have you tell me how you feel. I am officially that girl who is having a hard time breathing like a normal human!” .You grumble from your place hunched over your porcelain throne. “You and I are going to learn how to love each other from a distance, damn it!”

Andy strokes a big hand through your hair. “I’m going to get you some water. Or maybe some Ginger Ale. As soon as you’re done. And then you’re going to lay back down.” He tells you. Your man was so sweet. It was too bad that you were plotting his death. He was so cute, and he would be missed. 

“I love you, baby girl.”

“Fuck off, Big Man.” You heave, yet again. 

“Yep. I know you love me too.” He murmurs.

END

[salvatoreschool]

Legacies Recap: Hope and Landon's Reunion Only Leads to More Heartbreak

Hope Mikaelson (whoever that is) found herself in familiar territory on Thursday’s Legacies, in which she hunted a troll — or what she thought was a troll — through the hallowed halls of Mystic Falls High School.

She was joined by the new bearded principal, who wasn’t about to let a defenseless young girl face a big scary monster all by her lonesome. I just about died when he said, “If you are a vampire hunter, then I’m sure you’ve heard of Alaric Saltzman?” The ego!

Once Alaric saw Hope in action, however, he realized he completely misjudged her — just as they both misjudged the “troll,” which actually turned out to be a cyclops. Maybe if there had been a barber trapped in Malivore, the cyclops could have trimmed the hair covering its eye, and this whole misunderstanding would have been avoided. Just something to think about.

The battle concluded in the town square, mere yards away from Landon, who had the volume on his headphones turned up too high to notice the giant monster exploding behind him. (It’s a good thing that boy is set on auto-revive, because he does not have a good sense of his surroundings.)

Hope and Landon eventually came face to face, but it wasn’t exactly the romantic reunion fans have been hoping for. Instead, the two commiserated about their respective relationship woes; she even used his own advice (“Sometimes you have to be brave enough to be imperfect with people, even if it’s scary”) to help him fix his situation with Josie. And when he told her, “You’re going to have to take your own advice and tell that boy of yours that you exist,” I felt that.

The conversation also had a rough effect on Hope, who later broke down in front of Alaric and told him exactly who she really is.

Elsewhere this week…

‘THE FUTURE IS SUPERNATURAL’ | This week’s episode introduced us to Headmaster Vardemus (Angel‘s Alexis Denisof), who emboldened the students of the Salvatore School to embrace the Spider-Man way of life: “To whom much is given, much is required.” (OK, he words it a little fancier than Spider-Man, but you get the point.) In his opening remarks, he asked — nay, required — the students to be “better than humans ever could, because the day is coming when we will step out of the shadows.” Jolly accent and phenomenal wardrobe aside, the guy came off like a real hard-ass. So when he caught Josie inflicting a magical bloody nose upon one of Landon’s (many) flirty admirers, I was sure he’d punish her accordingly. But in a stunning display of multidimensionality, he taught her how to do the same spell without getting caught, then invited her to take part in a special offensive magic curriculum for “advanced students.” (Side note: Do we trust this guy? Between his supes-vs-humans speech and his shady mentoring, I feel like there’s trouble brewing.)

‘YOU’RE DRAWN TO ME, I’M DRAWN TO YOU’ | Thursday’s episode also gave us our first taste of Descendants‘ Thomas Doherty as a smoldering new vampire named Sebastian, who met Lizzie in the Old Mill while she was waiting for MG to join her for a study date. (Part of Lizzie’s “year of yes” meant agreeing to appease MG’s advances.) She was immediately into him, though he warned her not to get too close, because his life is “complicated.” (Oh, really, guy? I’ve got two words for you: Gemini. Coven.) But it was clear from their second meeting, complete with candles and dreamy music, that this is the beginning of something special. (When he called her “Elizabeth,” I pretty much melted.) Unfortunately, Lizzie falling head-over-heels for Sebastian meant that MG was due for some major heartbreak. When he realized that he unwittingly helped Lizzie locate Sebastian after their first meeting, he was clearly devastated. But because he’s just too damn nice for his own good, he simply replied, “It was really nice to see you happy today.”

‘WHO’S STALKING WHO HERE?’ | During Hope’s investigation into the troll cyclops, she met Maya (The Fosters‘ Bianca Santos) and Ethan (Why Women Kill‘s Leo Hard), the children of Mystic Falls’ new town sheriff. Maya lent a sympathetic ear when she found Hope crying in the bathroom, while Ethan naturally assumed Hope was into him because she happened to cross his path twice in one day. Either way, something tells me these two are going to make Hope’s more interesting — which is saying a lot for someone who slaughters supernatural baddies on the daily.

Your thoughts on this week’s Legacies? Are you already ‘shipping Lizzie and Sebastian? Do you trust the new headmaster? And who’s the mysterious robed figure who carved that spooky symbol on their latest victim?

[ontherockswithsalt]

A Made Man

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Chapter 34.

“Am I reading into things–” Noble wonders the question aloud as we trail a few steps behind Vinny and Bianca down West Fourth Street. “Or is that happening?”

Scrutinizing the pair in front of us – Noble’s sister and my partner, I watch them walk together. Their body language is fairly ordinary for two people having a conversation. But then again, I hadn’t really considered the possibilities so I’ve probably missed any signs that they could be into one another.

“I don’t know,” I murmur. “Vinny’s not as much of a horny jackass tonight which is sort of surprising.”

Noble considers it with a nod while he watches them. He tilts his head when his sister elbows Vinny in the side prompting a laugh as he tips his face to the sky. “Maybe he’s not interested,” Noble proposes, “so he’s toned down.”

“Or maybe he is interested, and he’s making an effort–” I theorize. Then I glance over to gauge Noble’s reaction to that idea. “What do you think about that?”

“No.” He cuts a decisive shake of his head. “That’s not happening. I mean, we’re here for a day, it’s not like they can exactly get attached.”

I have to laugh as I look over at him. “Huh. I feel like I told myself the same thing just a few months ago.”

“Don’t even compare.” He points. “We’re a different story.”

Smiling down at the ground, I shake my head. Then my hand wanders over to his to remind him that we definitely are, and I graze his palm with the tip of my finger.

He lifts his arm in response, slinging it around my shoulders where he pulls me in closer and presses a hard kiss on the side of my head. The move charms me, I won’t deny it and for a moment I bump my face against his shoulder.

“Are you having fun?” He wonders.

“Yes.” I look over at him. “How about you?”

“I would have fun with you–” His arm slips down my back and he sinks his hands into the pockets of his jacket. “–Waiting for the train, dude. You’re like, my favorite.”

Amusement tugs at my cheeks and I exhale a cloudy breath into the chilled late night air. “Oh my god.”

“But tonight, definitely yes.” Then he lets out a deep sigh. “Nights like these make me miss New York though.”

I know what he means. Something about the mood of the city at night. It can’t be matched, even by Miami’s energy. Plus when we’re together, I think it’s easy to forget the demons that once haunted him here.

I admire the quiet street. Christmas lights remain in most of the windows, glowing white from bare tree branches and even though this is my city, I feel the longing too. “I really like this neighborhood,” I notice.

“I do too. Maybe we’ll get mugged or something so that I can quit wishing I lived here.”

“Okay,” I laugh. “That’s a good solution.”

“Hey!” Bianca calls out ahead of us, turning to point toward the corner. “Down here, right?”

“It’s your place, I don’t know.” Noble shrugs and calls after her.

“No. What’s gonna happen,” I tell him as we catch up to them. “Is Vinny’s gonna sing karaoke at this bar and none of us will ever be able to show our face in this neighborhood again.”

“Y'all can keep saying it–” Vinny pipes up, slowing down to turn and address us. “But I’m not singing. I’m a spectator only.”

“You have to!” Bianca insists.

“You have to.” He stops at the door for Mary’s and tugs at the handle, backing up a step to let her in first.

“You both lost,” I reason as I pass through the entrance, retrieving my wallet for the bouncer checking ID’s at the door.

Vinny follows in behind us attempting to argue, “We tied. So officially no one lost.”

“I can’t believe we tied,” Bianca notes.

“Sixty-four–”

Vinny’s quick to brush off Noble’s reminder of their score. “Alright. Damn.”

Navigating the bar, I check out its walls decorated with framed, autographed celebrity headshots who’ve presumably visited along with random neon signs, album covers and vintage looking photographs. We pass through the mostly tame – but noticeably heavy on the guys – crowd and score a high top table for the four of us. 

At the front, a deejay – who Noble observes looks like a slightly more strung out Sammy Hagar – works to secure his karaoke setup, two microphone stands, a screen and the sound system take over the front of the bar.

After a cocktail server gets our drink orders, Bianca hops down from her seat, announcing, “I’m going to put my name on the list!”

With a shake of his head, Noble watches her go. “I hope you guys are ready for this epic setlist she’s planning in her head.” Then he leans onto his forearms on the table across from my partner.  "So Vinny. Did you grow up in New York?“

He nods. "Brooklyn born and raised.”

“What part?”

“Flatbush.”

“Nice,” Noble comments.

Vinny chuckles. “Not really.”

“You always wanted to be a cop?”

“Always?” Vinny considers it. “No. I mean, it was either shortstop for the Mets or cop. And the streets needed me, so–”

“You made the right call,” I remark as Bianca comes back and slides into her seat beside Vinny.

“The Mets are regretting it, but that’s their loss,” he shrugs. “No, I uh–” Vinny starts, peering down for a moment at the table. He picks up the cardboard drink coaster in front if him and mindlessly plays with it. “When I was fifteen, I lost my cousin Emilio. He was shot right next to me hanging outside the basketball courts on our block.”

Propping my elbow on the table, I run a hand along my jawline while I listen. I know this story but it still clenches my gut a little to hear it again.

“He was like my best friend. But. Y'know, in that neighborhood a lot of people felt like there was no way out. And running with a crew was your only choice.”

“You were standing right there?” Bianca asks.

With this sort of far away look, he nods slowly. “After, I just… refused to end up like that. I didn’t want to be another kid from the projects getting caught up in that shit. It’s too easy.”

The bartender returns with a tray of drinks, setting the glasses out in front of us.

“I was lucky. I have good parents,” Vinny goes on. “My dad’s a barber. My mom… she used to work at a clinic. They pushed me, they were on my ass. I wanted to do right by my family. By Emilio. So… John Jay, then the Academy.”

Wrapping up his recap, he laughs softly then gestures to me. “And now I get to make the Commissioner’s son look good and it all turned out alright.”

With a knowing smirk, I nod. “I appreciate that.”

“Your mom…” Bianca starts with some hesitation. “Used to work at a clinic–”

He swallows a hard gulp of his drink and exhales. “Oh yeah. She went back to school and now she’s a nurse,” Vinny explains. “And they moved to Washington Heights.”

“Aww–” Her face lights up and she grins in relief, as if she’d been holding her breath his entire story. “That’s sweet.”

“So there’s the life story nobody asked for,” he finishes.

“Is your dad still a barber?” She wonders.

Vinny leans closer to her, dipping his head. “Hell yeah, girl. Check that fresh cut.”

Reaching over, she lightly scratches fingertips over the back of his neck, right at his hairline. “Your dad cuts your hair?”

He lifts his head to look at her and when he does, I feel Noble bump his leg into mine beside me. I don’t want to watch this exchange, but my attention just sort of helplessly settles on them.

“Yep,” Vinny answers.

She bobs her chin toward the front of the bar. “You ready to go sing with me?”

“Nope.”

“You…” With her face right in front of his, she draws her fingertip just over his cheek but doesn’t touch him. “Have these little freckles right below your eye that I just noticed.”

“Mm-hm.” He hums at her with this look, and a falling gaze that I can see from here.

“And they’re cute,” she tells him.

“I’m not singing.”

Bianca’s tongue teases the edge of her teeth. “Please.”

“Keep trying to convince me, though,” he says. “I like it.”

With a huff, she shoves a hand against his thigh and turns once more toward the table for her drink.

“Say please again.” He motions to himself. “But like, use my name with it–”

“Shut up.” She laughs into her glass.

Noble looks down at his drink, muttering, “Ah shit” before he goes for a hearty gulp.

“You alright?” I question.

“No.”

“It’s one night.” I remind him of his own excuse. “Are you gonna spend all night stressing about your sister instead of having fun with me?”

“I’m not stressing.”

Hitching my elbow on the back of my chair, I pretend to glance around. “Because damn, there’s plenty of guys here–”

“Hey–” He cuts me off and the deep, sharp note of it makes one of my eyebrows jump.

I dig my teeth into my lower lip and bite back a smile.

He looks at me just as the music overhead fades out and the deejay takes to the makeshift stage to get the karaoke underway. The track’s bongos and jingling tambourine notes announce the intro to Freedom by George Michael and the deejay starts off the night with himself as the opener.

“Jesus,” Noble murmurs with a laugh. “You’re right. It’s one night, who cares? But–” Then he brings his glass to his lips for a drink and after a heavy swallow, gestures toward the microphones and announces, “This is gonna be pretty terrible so we need to go ahead and order another round.”

“Yes, I agree.” Vinny points back to him. “I’ll order us some shots.”

[gulgbtqplus]

Meet the Committee 2019/20

We have 16 committee members who work together to run the society:

1. President: Maddy, She/her, president@gulgbtqplus.com

Hi, my name's Maddy, I use she/her pronouns, and I'm the current president of gulgbtq+! I'm a third year medical student and I was the previous welfare officer. I spend most of my time hanging out with my rat, hiding in the library, and doing things with gulgbtq+. I'm a chatty gal and I love meeting new people, so feel free to scream with me about Troye Sivan/Hayley Kiyoko/Charli XCX anytime.

If you have any questions or ideas, hit me up! I'm very excited to be a part of the society this year and engage with all our members ❤

2. VP Secretary: Quinn, He/Him, vpsecretary@gulgbtqplus.com

Hi I'm Quinn and I am your secretary this year for GULGBTQ+. I am an economic and social history student who has been going to GULGBTQ+ events since my first moment in Glasgow. I enjoy poetry, comedy and films, and dogs, dogs are good. Can't wait to see you at events! If you ever want to message myself or the committee with any questions, suggestions or comments I can be reached at vpsecretary@gulgbtqplus.com, see you soon!

3. Treasurer: Emily B, She/Her, vptreasurer@gulgbtqplus.com

Hi! I’m Emily, the new VP Treasurer! I’m 21, use she/her pronouns, and am proudly bisexual. I’m currently in 4th year, studying history (dissertation time, yikes!) I’ve been part of the society over the last year, and it’s been one of the best parts of my university experience. I’ve made new friends, increased my self-confidence, and had tons of good gay times! Outside of the society, I enjoy going to gigs, caring for my many houseplants, and taking too many naps. I’m excited for my role on committee this year, although you know what they say about gays and maths! I’m constantly on social media, so feel free to drop me a bell if you have any questions or queries! I’m on twitter @_emilybarton. Hope to see you at an event soon :-)

4. Welfare: Bianca, She/he, welfare@gulgbtqplus.com

Hello! My name is Bianca and I'm the Welfare Officer of GULGBTQ+. I'm a small twenty-year-old Italian and I am a third year English Language & Linguistics and Theatre Studies student. I spend most of my free time reading, crying over Shakespeare, or bingeing the latest gay shows on Netflix, and the rare times I decide to go outside and try sports I enjoy horse riding and ice skating. I'm a gryffindor and I'm very excited to be back on committee this year, so feel free to drop me an e-mail for anything you might need!

5. Events: Emily T, She/Her, events@gulgbtqplus.com

Hi everyone! My name's Emily (Tunstall) and this year I'm really excited to be the Events Coordinator for GULGBTQ+! I'm a second year Psychology Student and in my free time I like drawing, painting, making new friends, and spending time with this society. ❤

Please feel free to say hi to me online or in person, I will almost always be wearing my Docs and at least one badge, be it on my bag or my denim jacket, if you need help recognising me. I'm always open for a good chat, to offer some advice, or if you just need some directions around Uni! I would really love to see you at our events on a Wednesday, or at one of our coffees during the week. 🌈🌈🌈

6. Women’s: Claire, She/Her, womens@gulgbtqplus.com

Hi, I'm Claire, and I'm your women's officer! I'm a third year in Microbiology. Ask me about worms. Sometimes I think I'm not a stereotype but then I remember I have two cats, a Hozier-centric Spotify, and build furniture for a hobby.

I'm so excited for another great year! One of the things I love about this society is that it's an inclusive space for all women, and I want to make everyone feel welcome. If you have any comments, questions, or concerns (or just want to chat) feel free to shoot me a message!

8. Trans: Cassidy, They/Them, trans@gulgbtqplus.com

Hey, I'm Cassidy (they/them) the new Trans officer! I'm 20 and a third year studying Classics and History. I'm a nonbinary trans woman and I'm here to represent trans people and help people with gender related things generally 🙂

Aside from being gender, I am a roller skating gamer who makes stuffed toys and loves history more than life itself. I'm looking forward to running coffee and having a great year with everyone 🙂

9. Postgraduate and Mature Students: Kyle, He/Him, postmat@gulgbtqplus.com

Hey, hi, hello! I’m Kyle, a postgraduate Astrophysics student who’ll be your first PostMat Officer for this year! Avid Karaoke Fan and Polo R&B Room Resident, I’ll usually be found out and about when I’m not studying (procrastinating). My aim for the time that I’m here is to try and get more LGBTQ+ Postgraduate and Mature students involved with GULGBTQ+.

I haven’t been in Glasgow for very long, so I’m excited to share the experience of things like Glasgow Pride with you all! I’m also hoping to run some smaller gatherings (like the current PostMat Coffees) over the summer for those of us who will need a break from our dissertations. If any PostMat students have ideas to share or any concerns to raise, please don’t be afraid to email.

10. Campaigns: Jo, They/He, campaigns@gulgbtqplus.com

Hi, I’m Jo and I’m your Campaigns Officer! I’m a postgraduate research student in English Language & Linguistics with a particular love for all things to do with LGBTQ+ linguistics. I’m a big fan of knitting, baking, indoor bouldering and playing D&D, and I’m also involved with the English Language & Linguistics Society. I was Campaigns Officer the year before last in 2017/2018, but I just couldn’t stay away, and now I’m back for some more campaigning!

As Campaigns Officer, my role is to raise awareness of LGBTQ+ issues in the society, on campus, and in the wider world. In the past, I’ve helped run campaigns to increase awareness of trans people on campus and to encourage local hairdressers and barbers to be inclusive of their LGBTQ+ customers. This year, I hope to revitalise these campaigns and work with our other officers and members of the society to create some exciting new ones!

Please feel free to contact me if you’d like to get involved in campaigning or have any ideas that you’d like to share with me!

11. Communications and Technology: Summer, They/Them, comtech@gulgbtqplus.com

Hi, I’m Summer and I’m the Communications and Technology Officer for the year! I’m a 5th year computing science student (yes, that kind of transfem!) so you’ll frequently find me programming, tinkering with Linux or providing tech support for someone. When I’m not doing that I’ll probably be knitting, playing video games, running tabletop rpgs or watching martial arts movies (or talking about how I don't have time for any of the above)!

As the recently renamed Communications and Technology officer (formerly Publicity) I'm mostly here for you to tell me why the website or mailing list doesn't work, so feel free to get in touch with any complaints and/or constructive criticisms. I hope to have a great year with you all, hopefully with a better website!

12: First Year Ordinary Member: Jenny, She/Her, firstyearom@gulgbtqplus.com

Hiya!  I’m Jenny and I’m the interim first year representative on the GULGBTQ+ committee.  I’m going into second year studying biomedical engineering and in my free time I enjoy drawing, making soup, and loving my gf.  I met wonderful friends and made loads of good gay memories through the society in my first year and am excited to help as many freshers as possible join in on the fun this year!  I’m passionate about creating a loving and accepting community for all LGBTQ+ students, especially new ones, since I know how hard it can be to settle in.  If you’re a fresher and have any ideas, questions, or just want to make a new friend, please don’t hesitate to send me an email!

13: Bi/Pan: Valentine, They/ve, bi@gulgbtqplus.com

Hi I'm Niamh, you may recognise me as last year's nonbinary officer! I use they/them pronouns, I'm 20 and a 3rd year psychology student. This'll be my 3rd year in the society and I love it with my whole heart. If you have any issues feel free to email me or message me on Facebook (Niamh Conlan). My first and foremost want is for those coming to the society and bi events to feel comfortable and welcomed!

When I'm not being a disaster bisexual I'm dying my hair, applying clown makeup, dancing to new wave or doing kendo. I'm excited to meet you all and hope to have a great year with everyone!

14. International Students: Judith, She/they, international@gulgbtqplus.com

Hi! I’m Judith, I’ve been described as “the lesbianest person I know” by my flatmate and if you ask me where I’m from, I’m likely to name three countries, so I guess it makes sense that I’d be your international officer. I’m a third year psychology and statistics student who likes to avoid studying by going swordfighting (yes, I own an actual sword, but don’t worry, I only use it against transphobes) or putting on facepaint before a metal gig. But don’t get the wrong impression, I’m actually a very quiet person who’s always there to listen or give you advice. Feel free to message me on Facebook (Judith AN), send me an email or just come talk to me during the international coffees I’ll be running!

15. Aromantic and Asexual: Lo, They/Them, asexual@gulgbtqplus.com

Hello! I’m Leilo (they/them), 20, and happy to be the ace/aro officer! My job is to represent people who are (or are questioning if they are) on the spectrums of being aromantic or asexual, so feel free to email me! As ace/aro officer I host biweekly coffees so aros, aces, and those who are questioning, can come together.

I’m a second year Maths student but will probably add philosophy as my second main subject. Aside from sitting over Math problems for way longer than seems necessary, you will find me writing, working out, or philosophising about bdsm.

16: Non-binary: Robyn, They/Them, nonbinary@gulgbtqplus.com

Salut! I’m Robyn and I’m the Non-Binary Officer. I’m a 2nd Year French/History student and I was born in Glasgow - I’m like a rare pokemon. I only resurrect during Eurovision season and have a hoard of sunglasses. And I’m a massive comic book nerd (yes I am Batman’s sidekick on the side).

I’m always down for a chat and feel free to DM me with anything from issues, to memes! I’m very excited to be your Non-Binary boi this year!!

[startfridayasia]

All fashion brands with B - Part 3

Beyoncé Parfums

Beckham Fragrances

Barry M Cosmetics

Burt's Bees

Belle et BonBon

Better Chef

Bodycology

Bioelements

Bolzonella 1934

Blue Heeler

Beauty Bakerie Cosmetics Brand

Bmuet(Te)

BALT

BEST SELLING HOME

BNF Home

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Badash

Baltic Linen Company

Bare Home

Bayou Classic

Bedz King

Beechwood Mountain

Bella + Canvas

Bellaterra Home

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Best Home Fashion

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Bestar

Better Trends

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Bromi Design

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Best Choice Products

Big Joe

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Bouguessa

BCI Crafts

Blue Billie

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Brisk

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Bonton

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Bianco Bianchi

Bottega Vignoli

Botteganove

Better Homes & Gardens

by FAR

Berkshire Blanket

Beekman 1802

Better Life

Bigio

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Blvd Collection by Forplay

Boston Harbour Vintage

Boxing

Brooklyn Athletics

Bruno Piattelli

Bambah

Berenson

Black Canyon Home and Body

Brite Star

Brownlow Gifts

Bruntmor

Burst Creative

bobble

Belize

Bergamasco

Bravado Designs

BEBO

Brylcreem

Barber Pro

Bertrando Di Renzo

Blackbarrett

Bravo Sierra

Blaze and the Monster Machines

Blue Diamond

Be Mine

Barbara Bologna

Burt's Bees Baby

BOTH Shoes

Beauty Bioscience

Black Daisy

Brag-Wette

Ben&Jonah

Bode

Búho

Birgitte Herskind

BILLY T

Bergfabel

Blind Date

BYBI

Biedermann & Sons Inc.

BonaVita

Botanics

Birds of Prey

Beauty Pro

Broochini

Beach Bros

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BluVue

Buyartforless

Bounce Comfort

BAZZ

Bush Business Furniture

Bevel

Black & Gold

Busatti

British Barbers Association

Brave Soul Petite

Banci

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BN3TH

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Botanica

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Bethany Williams

Body Benefits

Bandier

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Barbarian by Barbra Ignatiev

Boyarovskaya

B.B. for Reschio

Barel

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Black Radiance

Bernadette

Botter

Batsheva

Bennett Winch

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b.tan

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Ben

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Buxom

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BeautyRX by Dr. Schultz

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Bulldog Mens Skincare and Grooming

Birdwell Beach Britches

BT Cosmetics

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Beams F

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Boyish Jeans

Blume Maternity

Bar Jewellery

Brilliance by Vanity Fair

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Benjara

By Any Other Name

Brøgger

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Bar 3

Bottega PB1

Barovier&Toso

Bubble T

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Blue Revival

Bondeye Jewelry

Backes & Strauss

British Colour Standard

Bleue Burnham

Ben Soleimani

Beauty Jam

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Belif

By Pariah

Barefoot Scientist

basd

Bonanza Paris

Bianchini&Capponi

BMRVLS

BeBe Women's Outwear

Braun Watches

Bapy by A Bathing Ape

Bersuse

Beauut

Bruno Rey

Bottega Intreccio

Babylon LA

Baina

Blinking Beaute

Belysa

Bossi Sportswear

Billiani 1911

Barna Cashmere

BosleyMD

BasShu

BooSocki

Boteh

Bonvo

Black Girl Sunscreen

bioClarity

Ban Deodorants

Bel-Air Athletics

Black Opal Beauty

BrushLab

Bad Habit

BondiBoost

Barberino’s

Biancoperla

BB Dakota by Steve Madden

Biza

Bertu

Blue Sky Inn

Brow Bar by Reema

Buffalo Apparel Company

BEVERLY HILLS 90210

[tonimining]

Little Simz - Point And Kill ft. Obongjayar from Sam Meyer on Vimeo.

Director: Ebeneza Blanche Executive Producer: Elizabeth Doonan Producer: Luca Chapman Production Company: SMUGGLER Service Producer: Dawa Thompson Service Production Manager: Eshinlokun Ademola DOP: Sam Meyer 1st AC: Tobi Ajayi 2nd AC: Idris Oba Steadicam Operator: Paul Nnabuike 1st AD: Dehinbo Odunayo 2nd AD: Pelumi Adeshina Set PA: Olaotan Olojede Set PA: Tina Nwankwo Unit Manager: Idowu Oke Gaffer: T.K Alade Spark: Jeremiah Ogunshina Spark: Sodiq Best Boy Electric: Segun Key Grip: Olawale Akinmoladun Best Boy Grip: Sheriff DIT: Olaniyan Opeyemi Production Designer: Saadiq Olanrewaju Art Director: Ayo Lawson Art Assistant: Sikiru Akinola Art Assistant: Jamiu Animashaun Make-Up Artist: Ayopo Abiri Assistant Make-Up Artist: Helen Hair Stylist: Kehinde Aare Assistant to Hair Stylist: Kafayat Ahmed Assistant to Hair Stylist: Kemisola Quadri Set Barber: Emmanuel Omoboh Artist Stylist: Ashley Okoli Assistant to Artist Stylist: Demola Mako Cast Stylist: Temitope Uduak Betiku Cast Wardrobe Assistant: Ndidjakama Ruth Cast Wardrobe Assistant: Kofoworola Betiku Cast Wardrobe Assistant: Joy Omo Cast Wardrobe Assistant: Akinntade Esther Seamstress: Bello Laide Seamstress: Ubani Chidimna Seamstress: Stephanine Daniels BTS (Video): Tayo Opatayo BTS (Still): Andikan Pelumi Editor: Oscar Mirzayev Sound Design & Mix: Hugo @ Brother Music VFX: Foreign XChange Grade: Jason Wallis @ ETC Film Scanning: Cinelab Graphics: Jeremy Cole Equipment & Service Suppliers: The AJs (Catering), Akeem (Animals), Silas (Security), Next Thought Media (Camera & Lighting), ProcamTake2 (Camera Kit UK), Cinelab (Film Scan) Commissioner: Bianca Bhagat