#hail arizona

[queersatanic]

do you have any reconmendations for ‘satanic chruches’ other than TST and Church of Satan?

We've answered this before, and the short version is "it's tough".

Newer communities pop up all the time, like Hail Arizona, or return like Satanic Portland, to do local antifascist work.

Our standing advice will be that you should look around and different Satanic folk, take good ideas and discard the bad ones (including when you find out it's just neo-colonialist occult nonsense), and build your own community or group doing what you want to do.

In terms of online Satanic groups, just be alert to the red flags of hierarchy and exploitation.

Remember “I have never been abused by X person or Y group” is a baseline that most people dealing with an abuser are able to say, which is why us saying good things about those we have experience with can only ever mean so much.

Let nothing be too precious to you to not be willing to oppose or abandon if it should deserve it.

[pricklypear1997]

The Coen brothers reflect what I do like about the US. The wild western rustic charm/grit, the California weirdness, and Minnesota chill. These movies are extremely refreshing and don’t have any forced political agenda inserted unlike the majority of what Hollywood puts out. The Coen brothers stay true in their work and shows us these nuanced but beautiful aspects of the US. They’re really good at showing the viewer beautiful wide screen shots of nature as well as having these quiet moments that just let you digest the film, only to be baffled by the next scene! Their comedy is gold. I’m going to have watch every single movie directed by the Coen brothers. I’ve already seen True Grit, the Big Lebowski, the Ballad of Buster Scruggs and Fargo. These movies make you feel like your entering the lives of the characters they are about, but these characters feel like individuals living in their own little world. It doesn’t feel manufactured. They’re living in their own natural environment, and that’s beautiful.

Update: I’m adding O Brother Where Art Thou?, A Serious Man, Raising Arizona, No Country for Old Men, and Burn After Reading on my list of favorite films (which is exactly 140 films so far), along with True Grit, and The Big Lebowski.

[thechembow]

Gifting Albuquerque to Tucson, Knocking Out Las Cruces!

Oct. 24, 2023

We gifted from Albuquerque to Las Cruces this morning. To our surprise, we got a bonus city on this gifting mission, which has been our largest yet.

There were an inordinate number of cell towers along I-10 through Las Cruces, which we neutralized very quickly. The energy in the atmosphere was already very highly charged, with our thorough grid of Denver and Albuquerque towers, as well as everything in between, fighting against the still unbusted Tucson cell towers.

We hit a downpour in Las Cruces following gifting the towers, which included marble sized hail. The winds were strong as well, as we drove toward Tucson in the afternoon. We hit two more extreme downpours before reaching our destination. Driving conditions were dangerous, but there was no road flooding. There was pooled up water on the land surrounding the freeway.

The energetic release of neutralizing hundreds of cell towers in California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, and New Mexico in just over a week was creating dramatic textures in the clouds throughout the afternoon. Although Las Cruces is a much bigger city than I expected and could use more orgonite throughout, the concentration of busted towers along the freeway was enough for today! We continued gifting all the towers we saw in the pouring rain.

This evening the rain has stopped. There is a chance of more rain tonight in Tucson. Once we finish Tucson, the southwest will be extremely well gridded with orgonite.

[zombieplaguedoc]

What started out as me and 2p Nyo America as gems turned into me making my own SU lore and origins that are different from canon.

ANTIS DNI, THIS POST IS NOT FOR YOU

[thatgeekwiththeclipons]

Happy 67th Birthday to 4x Academy Award Winning producer, writer, filmmaker Ethan Coen! ^__^

[swampflix]

Coens Countdown

Over the past couple of years, I’ve sought to plug some holes in my watching of certain directorial canons. Starting in the summer of 2022, I began the process of watching every Coen Brothers movie in chronological order. This worked pretty well until I got to The Big Lebowski, a movie that I, like many others, made a core part of their teenage personalities in their youth, and as such I skipped…

[clockswatches]

abSURD

[arquivosmmf]

SHOTGUN, MURRAY, OUT OF THE POCKET, SEVEN SECONDS, SIX SECONDS, MURRAY HITS IT DOWNFIELD... AND IT'S OH IT'S CAUGHT! IT IS CAUGHT, DEANDRE HOPKINS, MIRACULOUS! IT'S MURRAY MAGIC!

[afeelgoodblog]

The Best News of Last Week

1. Arizona governor Ok's over the counter birth control

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs (D) has expanded access to over-the-counter birth control that will “soon be available to Arizonans,” according to a press release.

Arizonans 18 and older will soon be able to go to their local pharmacy and purchase oral contraceptives without a doctor’s prescription.

2. ‘Great news’: EU hails discovery of massive phosphate rock deposit in Norway

A massive underground deposit of high-grade phosphate rock in Norway, pitched as the world’s largest, is big enough to satisfy world demand for fertilisers, solar panels and electric car batteries over the next 50 years, according to the company exploiting the resource. About 90% of the world’s mined phosphate rock is used in agriculture for the production of phosphorous for the fertiliser industry, for which there is currently no substitute.

3. U.S. Is Destroying the Last of Its Once-Vast Chemical Weapons Arsenal

Decades behind its initial schedule, the dangerous job of eliminating the world’s only remaining declared stockpile of lethal chemical munitions will be completed as soon as Friday.

4. Chinese scientists create edible food packaging to replace plastic

By incorporating certain soy proteins into the structure, Chinese University of Hong Kong scientists successfully created edible food packaging.

5. World's 1st 'tooth regrowth' medicine moves toward clinical trials in Japan

A Japanese research team is making progress on the development of a groundbreaking medication that may allow people to grow new teeth, with clinical trials set to begin in July 2024. The tooth regrowth medicine is intended for people who lack a full set of adult teeth due to congenital factors.

6. No Longer Endangered: The Bald Eagle is an Icon of the ESA

When the Endangered Species Act (ESA) was enacted in 1973, bald eagle population numbers across the country showed that the species was close to disappearing. Before the ESA, in the 1950s and ‘60s, eagles were shot routinely despite the protection. The ESA listing helped bring public attention to the issue.

Through the early 1970s and into the early ‘80s, numbers increased gradually. Then, as you got into the ‘90s, there was still gradual growth. From the late ‘90s into the 2000s, the population really exploded. There was a doubling rate of every several years or so for a while.

7. Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon drops 34% in first half 2023

Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon fell 34% in the first half of 2023, preliminary government data showed on Thursday, hitting its lowest level in four years as President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva institutes tougher environmental policies.

Data produced by Brazil's national space research agency Inpe indicated that 2,649 square km (1,023 square miles) of rainforest were cleared in the region in the half year, the lowest for the period since 2019.

----

That's it for this week :)

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[outinarizona]

2022 micro hail day! The late Fall chill doing its thing! Thursday, November 03.

[goldfades]

★ THE HARD DECISIONS LEAD TO THE GREATEST REWARDS ─── prologue

─ pairing | paige bueckers x fem!reader

─ word count | 2.4k words

─ warnings | unedited, some angst, coach misunderstandings and the feeling of being alienated, transfer-talk, nothing else? little r and p content but this is just the foundation, there will be a lot more coming!

─ ev's notes | as you guys know (OBVIOUSLY) my inbox is open for thoughts on this series and i'd love to know what you think so far, and maybe ideas for future chapters or even the plot itself since i don't have everything figured out just yet. anyways, hope you enjoy this prologue! ily all! mwah mwah

⇨ missing out on updates? check out the masterlist for my series!

May 2022

In a surprising turn of events, collegiate basketball powerhouse UConn has just secured a major coup with the addition of Y/N L/N to their roster. Y/N, once hailed as one of the brightest prospects in the 2021 recruiting class, has announced her decision to transfer from Arizona to UConn.

The news of Y/N's transfer from Arizona to UConn has sent shockwaves through the community, sparking speculation and excitement about the impact she will have on her new team. The timing of Y/N's decision, coming just weeks after the Wildcat's loss to UConn in the NCAA tournament, has led some to speculate about the impact of that defeat on her choice to transfer.

At UConn, Y/N will join a storied basketball program led by legendary coach Geno Auriemma. The Huskies, known for their tradition of excellence and strong team culture, offer Y/N the opportunity for a fresh start and a chance to rediscover her passion for the game.

"We're thrilled to welcome Y/N to the UConn family," says head coach Geno Auriemma. "She's a dynamic player with a bright future ahead of her, and we can't wait to see what she brings to the team."

──

March 2022

The buzzer echoed throughout the court and the UConn girls cheered loudly as they ran up to their teammates on the bench. You felt a lump form in your throat as you swallowed back the tears, your emotions threatening to overwhelm you.

Slumping onto the bench, you buried your face in your hands, the sting of tears threatening to overwhelm you. It wasn't just about the loss, though that certainly stung ─ it was the culmination of months of frustration, of feeling like you were fighting an uphill battle with no end in sight.

You had come to the U of A with high hopes and big dreams, but somewhere along the way, it had all started to unravel. Your coach, once a source of inspiration, now felt like an obstacle standing in the way of your growth. And the teammates, once friends and supposed allies, now seemed more like strangers, each focused solely on their own ambitions.

Inside the locker room, the atmosphere was heavy. Players sat in silence, their faces reflecting a mixture of disappointment and frustration. Coach Johnson's voice cut through the silence, his words measured and deliberate as he addressed the team.

"Look, we gave it our all out there," he began, his tone firm. "But sometimes, the game just doesn't go our way. That's fine, there's always next year and we'll come back strong. Practice is still on for tomorrow morning, 5am to 9am"

Coach Johnson's announcement of another early morning practice felt like a punch to the gut. It was a reminder of everything that had gone wrong, of the sacrifices you had made in pursuit of a dream that no longer felt like your own.

As your teammates exchanged weary glances, you felt a surge of frustration rising within you. Was this all there was to it? Endless hours of practice, sacrifices made in pursuit of a goal that felt increasingly out of reach?

As the team dispersed, heading back to their dorms and apartments, you lingered in the locker room, the weight of the decision you had been wrestling with growing heavier with each passing moment. It wasn't just about one tough loss or a grueling practice schedule ─ it was about reclaiming your sense of purpose, your love for the game that had once been your escape.

"Fuck," you grumbled as you felt the tears fall. You sniffled as you got up from the bench, reaching for your backpack as you began walking out of the locker-room.

You heard the court doors open and some laughter, you held your breath as you ignored the annoyance that filled your stomach. You focused on your feet as you walked, not really watching where you were heading until─you collided with someone, jolting you out of your reverie.

"Oh shit, my bad," the blonde's voice echoed as she glanced at her teammates, giving you a thin lipped smile as she recognized you from the game. She was wearing a UConn jersey as she steadied you with a hand on your shoulder. "Sorry,"

You nodded quickly, wiping your eyes and trying to compose yourself. "You're good," you muttered, avoiding her gaze.

The blonde hesitated for a moment before offering a genuine smile. "Hey, you're a good player. We were all impressed out there. Keep your head up."

You managed a small smile in return. "Thanks."

As she rejoined her teammates and they disappeared down the hallway, you felt a strange mixture of emotions ─ regret for the loss, but also a flicker of hope from her unexpected kindness.

──

"What are you suggesting?" You asked as you met Coach Lindsay's gaze, your expression confused as she sighed ─ you knew what she was suggesting. "A transfer?"

Lindsay nodded, her expression somber. "I hate to say it, Y/N, but I think it might be the best option for you," she said, her voice gentle but firm. "It's clear that things haven't been working out here at Arizona. The coach, the team dynamic and now the whole Alyssa thing... it's all been weighing you down."

You let out a frustrated sigh, running a hand through your hair. The idea of transferring had been lingering in the back of your mind for weeks now, but hearing it spoken aloud made it feel all too real.

"I just don't know if I can do it," you admitted, your voice barely above a whisper. "I've put so much into this program. Leaving feels like admitting defeat."

Lindsay reached out and placed a hand on your shoulder, her touch reassuring. "It's not about admitting defeat, Y/N. It's about taking control of your own happiness. You deserve to be somewhere where you can thrive, where you can be supported and valued for who you are."

Her words struck a chord deep within you. For too long, you had allowed yourself to be consumed by the expectations of others, sacrificing your own well-being in pursuit of a dream that no longer felt attainable.

Lindsay hesitated for a moment before speaking. "I'm not supposed to say anything but I've heard talk about UConn being interested in you. They've got a great program, and Coach Geno is one of the best. All you have to do is agree and just trust in the process, babe."

"UConn?" you repeated, the word feeling foreign yet oddly enticing on your tongue.

Lindsay nodded, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips. "Yeah. I mean, nothing's set in stone, but it could be worth exploring. Just think about it, Y/N. You will get drafted to the WNBA if you are at a powerhouse like UConn, especially with your talent."

You couldn't believe it ─ your own assistant coach was telling you to transfer. Was your situation at Arizona truly as bad as Lindsay seemed to suggest? You glanced around the locker room, the familiar sights and sounds suddenly feeling suffocating. Had it really come to this? Were things truly as toxic as they seemed, or were you just overreacting?

As you thought about her words, memories of the past few months flooded your mind ─ the grueling practices, the weird relationships (if you could even call them that) with teammates, the constant pressure to perform. Each moment felt like a weight dragging you down, sapping away your passion and drive.

And yet, amidst the uncertainty, there was a glimmer of hope. The possibility of a fresh start at UConn, of rediscovering your love for the game and reaching your full potential felt right.

Lindsay's voice broke through your thoughts, pulling you back to the present. "I know it's a lot to take in, Y/N. But sometimes, the hardest decisions lead to the greatest rewards. Just trust in yourself and follow your heart."

"Maybe you're right," you admitted, the words feeling like a weight lifted from your shoulders. "Maybe it's time for a change."

Lindsay smiled, her eyes shining with pride. "I'm proud of you, Y/N. It takes courage to admit when something isn't working and to take steps to change it. Whatever you decide, just know that I'll be here to support you every step of the way."

🚨 ESPN | BREAKING: Top Prospect Y/N L/N Commits to UConn Transfer 🚨 Y/N L/N, widely regarded as one of the most promising players in the 2021 recruiting class, joins UConn with high expectations. With UConn's storied basketball program and renowned head coach Geno Auriemma at the helm, Y/N's transfer promises to shake up the landscape of women's college basketball.

You glanced down at the notification on your phone, a nervous knot forming in the pit of your stomach. The news of your transfer had spread like wildfire, and now, seeing it plastered across the screen of your phone, it felt all too real.

You took a deep breath, reminding yourself of the reasons behind your decision to transfer. The toxic atmosphere at Arizona, the strained relationships with teammates, the relentless pressure from coaches ─ it had all taken its toll, slowly suffocating your love for the game.

But now, with the opportunity to join UConn, you felt a flicker of hope reignite within you. Here was a chance for a fresh start, a chance to rediscover your passion for basketball and thrive in an environment where your talents would be appreciated and nurtured.

──

"Okay, listen up!" Coach Geno's voice echoed throughout the room, earning the attention of the girls on the team. You stood by the shorter man and somehow, you still felt small underneath his towering presence.

"As you all know," Coach Geno continued, his eyes scanning the faces of each player, "we've got a new addition to the team. Y/N, I want you to know that you're not just joining a team here at UConn ─ you're joining a family. We look out for each other, we support each other, and we push each other to be the best we can be."

"You guys all already know who she is, I know you did your research." His lips quirked up into a small smile as the girls exchanged amused glances within the team. A ripple of laughter spread through the room at his remark, breaking the tension and easing the nerves that had been swirling in your stomach.

"As for you, Y/N," Coach Geno continued, turning his attention back to you, "I want you to know that we're thrilled to have you here. Your talent speaks for itself, but what's even more important is your commitment to the team and your willingness to work hard."

As Coach Geno's words sank in, you couldn't help but feel a rush of excitement mixed with a hint of nervousness. Being welcomed into the UConn family by none other than Coach Geno himself was an honor beyond words.

With Coach Geno's words echoing in your mind, you joined your teammates in a huddle, ready to embark on this new chapter of your life. And as the team broke apart with a chant, you couldn't help but feel a surge of anticipation for the season ahead.

──

"And uh, don't eat Azzi's protein bars. She gets angry when she doesn't get her gainz," Paige remarked as Azzi sent her a glare. Everyone at the table giggled at that as you nodded, glancing toward Azzi.

Azzi sighed. "I think that's like common courtesy, P. Y/N knows better than that,"

"Of course, Azzi. I'll make sure to steer clear of your protein bars," you replied with a playful grin, earning a relieved smile from Azzi in return.

"What else..." Paige hummed as she ate chewed on her food, glancing around the table.

"Oh wait, I got one. If Coach tells you to run suicides, just do them without complaining," Aaliyah chimed in, her tone teasing but with a hint of seriousness.

"And make sure you hydrate," Nika added with a smirk, raising her water bottle in emphasis. "Especially during those conditioning drills Coach loves to throw at us."

As laughter erupted around the table, you couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie and belonging among your new teammates. "Of course, of course."

"And don't come to practice hungover, Coach will notice and he'll force everyone to run laps," Paige added as she shivered, earning a laugh from Aubrey. "Better for everyone if you just skip,"

"I think you need that advice more than anyone, Paige," Aubrey added as she nudged Paige playfully, eliciting more laughter from the group.

Paige mock-glared at Aubrey before joining in the laughter herself. "Hey, I've learned my lesson the hard way. Trust me, nobody wants to run laps hungover. I'm tryna make sure she doesn't get too carried away, she's from U of A, that's like party central."

You shrugged, a smile playing on your lips. "She's not wrong, if there's one thing I'll miss it'll be the insane parties at Kappa Sigma."

"Ooh, so you're a frat girly?" Aaliyah teased, raising an eyebrow playfully as she leaned in with interest.

You laughed, shaking your head. "Not exactly. Frat boys aren't really my thing," you smiled as you looked down at your plate. "Neither are guys, really."

Paige hummed in response as she smirked, raising her cup in a mock toast as Aaliyah's eyebrows shot up in surprise, but her expression quickly softened into understanding. "Ah, got it. Well, good thing UConn has plenty of other things to offer besides frat parties."

"Yeah, like winning championships," Nika chimed in with a grin, nudging you playfully. "And having the best teammates in the world," she continued, earning a chorus of laughs and "awws".

"Look at Nika getting all sappy," Paige mocked as Nika sent her a glare, earning another round of laughter from the table.

Nika rolled her eyes but couldn't hide the smile tugging at her lips. "Okay, shut up Paige,"

"No, you first."

"I asked first, Paige."

"I don't care, shut up."

"No, you-"

"Okay, that's enough." Azzi sent you a thin-lipped smile as you laughed, enjoying the playful banter between Paige and Nika.

You felt yourself settle into the team more and more with each passing moment, the laughter and camaraderie of your teammates easing any lingering nerves or doubts. As you listened to their stories and shared your own, you couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging wash over you.

These were your teammates, your friends, your family away from home. And as you laughed and joked with them, you knew that you had found a place where you truly belonged.

↳ make sure to check out my navigation or masterlist if you enjoyed! any interaction is greatly appreciated !

↳ thank you for reading all the way through, as always ♡

[asterwild]

headline round-up! here's some recent good news that crossed my feed:

Vultures released in Cyprus (via AP News, Bird Life Cyprus, September 2022) Fifteen griffon vultures, hailing from Spain, were released into the wild following a several-month acclimatization period. These birds will help replenish the Cypriot population, which had fallen to a mere 8-10 birds.

Four species of vulture return to national park in Malawi (via Mongabay, July 2022) White-backed, Hooded, White-faced, and Lappet-faced vultures have been returning to Liwonde National Park after an absence of 20+ years. Their comeback may be due to the reintroduction of cheetahs -- and the carcasses they leave behind.

22 Scottish Wildcats born in conservation project (via Saving Wildcats, The National, September 2022) The kittens are planned to be released in the Scottish Highlands next year, as part of the efforts to save this critically endangered species.

El Jefe lives (via Wildlands Network, Tuscon.com, August 2022) The jaguar dubbed El Jefe -- the only known jaguar in the US when he was first spotted in Arizona in 2011 -- has been off the radar for seven years. But remote camera photos from Sonora caught sight of a familiar cat in November 2021, and his identity has now been confirmed.

Creating corridors for jaguars in Mexico (via Mongabay, June 2022) "A group of biologists is working with communities to improve habitat for jaguars, pumas, jaguarundis, ocelots and margays in forested areas of Guerrero, in southern Mexico. Now they want to strengthen this conservation area so that the cats can thrive and so that communities can create sustainable development projects."

[thechembow]

First Thunder

May 21, 2023

Monsoon season is on, and we’re in the early stages. There are thunderstorms popping up in eastern California, particularly the mountains and deserts, and throughout the southwest. This is an early start to monsoon season compared with what we’re used to (a month from now), but this is the result of allowing nature to function normally, without blockages to the flow of OR in the atmosphere.

Today was the first day we heard thunder nearby, on the edge of a rainstorm to the southwest over Mt. Pinos. We didn’t get rain, but we could smell it, and there was dampness in the air. These monsoonal storms are often very small and dotted throughout the land, They pop up suddenly and rain out quickly. There is more sporadic rain in the forecast for Southern California this week.

This evening in Victorville, there is a Special Weather Statement, thunderstorms with half inch sized hail! There are also Flood Advisories in effect. The weather system is moving counterclockwise in the area, a typical monsoonal pattern.

[allsouls-emma]

Flicker of splashes

✧✧✧ ─ Léon Marchand X Female!Reader

Warnings: Enemies to lovers, No previous swimming knowledge!, Heated exchanges, Unrealistic time frame and settings. (let me know if i missed any x)

In the early morning light, the water of the Olympic-sized swimming pool at Arizona State University shimmered like a vast, still lake. The quiet was occasionally broken by the soft splash of a flipper or the gasp of an overeager swimmer. At the far end, a young man named Leon Marchand emerged from the locker room, his eyes scanning the area. His muscular frame was a testament to countless hours spent slicing through the water, and his focus was unyielding as he approached the starting block. Hailing from France, Leon was a new addition to the ASU swim team, known for his fierce determination and unmatched skill in the butterfly stroke.

Leon's hair was slicked back, revealing sharp features that mirrored the intensity in his gaze. He wore the standard-issue swimsuit of the ASU Sun Devils, a bold combination of maroon and gold that made him stand out against the stark blue of the pool. His teammates had already started their warm-up laps, their bodies gliding through the water in a harmonious ballet of athleticism. But Leon was not there to make friends or admire the view; he was there to win. He'd been recruited with the promise of a scholarship and the chance to prove himself on the international stage, and he wasn't about to let anyone or anything stand in his way.

Across the pool, Kate, an English swimmer with a reputation for her sharp wit and even sharper elbows, observed Leon from the corner of her eye. Her short, blonde hair bobbed in the water as she executed a perfect flip turn at the end of her lane. Kate was known for her speed in the freestyle events, and she had her sights set on breaking records. Her blue eyes narrowed slightly as she took in the newcomer's confident stride. Competition was what made her tick, and she felt a spark of excitement at the prospect of having a rival who might actually be able to push her limits.

The air was charged with the scent of chlorine and the faint aroma of coffee from the nearby cafe, where coaches and teammates chatted in hushed tones. As Leon took his place alongside Kate, she couldn't help but feel a twinge of irritation. He was good, really good, and that meant he was a threat. But Kate wasn't one to back down from a challenge. She had come to ASU to be the best, and she wasn't about to let some cocky Frenchman steal her thunder without a fight.

Their rivalry grew with every practice, every race, and every shared glance. They pushed each other, unspoken barbs passing between them like silent electric currents. Yet, beneath the surface of their hostility, there was a mutual respect, a recognition of the fire that burned in both their hearts. They were two of a kind, both driven by a passion for the sport that consumed them.

But it was during a particularly intense training session, when the tension between them reached a boiling point, that something unexpected happened. Leon's powerful kick sent a spray of water into Kate's face, and she emerged from the pool, spluttering and furious. Wiping the water from her eyes, she spun around to face him, her voice cutting through the air like a knife.

"What the hell was that?" she snapped, her British accent sharp as a tack.

Leon smirked, his own eyes glinting with mischief. "Just trying to cool you down, Kate," he said, his French accent lilting over her name in a way that made her even more irritated.

Their coach, a stoic man named Jenkins, stepped in before the situation could escalate. "Alright, you two," he barked. "Save it for the competition."

And so they did. But the seeds of something more than rivalry had been planted, and as they trained together, competed against each other, and shared their love for the water, Leon and Kate found themselves drawn into a dance of desire and challenge that neither could ignore.

The swim meet against Yale was fast approaching, and the pressure was on. The ASU team had been preparing for weeks, their bodies pushed to the brink of endurance. In the final moments before the mixed relay, Leon and Kate shared a look that was a mix of nerves and excitement. They were the anchor legs of their respective teams, and this race would be the decider. The crowd roared as the first swimmers took their marks, the air thick with anticipation.

Leon dove in, his muscles propelling him through the water with the grace of a dolphin. He took the lead early on, setting a blistering pace that seemed untouchable. Meanwhile, Kate waited on the edge of the pool, her heart pounding in her chest as she watched the race unfold. When it was her turn, she dove in with a ferocity that surprised even herself, her arms and legs moving like pistons as she chased after the Yale swimmers.

The race was tight, and as they reached the final exchange, Kate and Leon's teams were neck and neck. The tension in the air was palpable as the two swimmers reached out to touch the pads and start their final sprints. But disaster struck for ASU; a miscommunication between teammates caused a delay in the handoff, and Leon's team took the lead.

Furious, Kate slammed her fist against the side of the pool as she watched Leon pull ahead. The crowd's cheers only fueled her anger, and she turned to her team, her eyes blazing. "We can still do this," she shouted, her voice echoing through the cavernous space. "We're not going to lose because of a mistake!"

Leon heard her words, and something shifted inside of him. He knew he could win this race, but he also knew that Kate's spirit was something to be reckoned with. He pushed himself harder, his strokes becoming more powerful as he approached the final meters. But just as he was about to touch the pad and claim victory, Kate's hand shot out of the water, her fingers brushing against his ankle. It was a move that was against the rules, but in that moment, it didn't matter. The connection was electric, and for a split second, they were no longer enemies, but two athletes bound by a shared passion.

The race ended in a tie, but the real victory was the spark that had been ignited between them. In the aftermath of the meet, as the teams cooled down and the tension slowly dissipated, Kate approached Leon, her expression unreadable. "We should talk," she said, her voice low and serious.

Leon nodded, his heart racing. He knew what she meant, and he felt the same way. They had both been playing a game of cat and mouse, hiding their true feelings behind a facade of rivalry. But now, with the water still dripping from their bodies and the scent of victory and defeat mingling in the air, they could no longer deny the attraction that had been simmering beneath the surface.

In the quiet of the emptying pool area, Kate reached out and touched Leon's arm, her hand lingering there for a moment before she turned and walked away. Leon watched her go, his eyes never leaving her retreating figure. He knew that from this point on, their relationship would never be the same. The question was, could they navigate the choppy waters of love and competition without letting one drown the other?

Their conversation took place later that evening, under the warm glow of the outdoor lights that illuminated the deserted pool. The air was cool, a stark contrast to the heated emotions they had shared in the water. Kate spoke first, her voice a mix of frustration and curiosity. "Why did you do that?" she asked, referring to his actions during the race.

Leon leaned against the side of the pool, his eyes never leaving hers. "I didn't mean to win," he admitted. "I just… I wanted to feel your touch." His confession hung in the air, and for a moment, it was as if they were the only two people on Earth.

Kate's expression softened, and she took a step closer. "That was dangerous," she said, her voice quieter now. "But also incredibly thrilling."

They stood there for a moment, the unspoken understanding passing between them like an invisible current. Then, without warning, Leon reached out and pulled Kate into his arms, their wet bodies pressed together. The kiss was as fiery as their rivalry had been, a mix of passion and challenge that neither of them could resist. It was a declaration of war and a peace treaty all in one, a promise of what was to come.

As the days turned into weeks, their relationship grew in intensity. They trained harder than ever, pushing each other to new heights. Yet, there was also a tenderness that began to emerge, a gentle touch here, a shared smile there. The tension between them was no longer just about winning; it was about wanting to be the best for each other.

But as the swim season progressed, so did the stakes. The national championships were approaching, and their love story was about to face its greatest test. Would they be able to balance their newfound love with their burning desire to win? Or would their competitive spirits drive them apart just when they needed each other the most?

The night before the nationals, Kate lay in bed, her thoughts racing like a river in flood. She knew that tomorrow, she would not only be racing against the best swimmers in the country but also against Leon. She felt a strange mix of excitement and dread, knowing that she had to face her fears and her love all at once.

Leon, in his own room, felt the same. He had never wanted to win so badly and never felt so conflicted about it. Yet, as he closed his eyes, he saw Kate's face, her eyes alight with determination, and he knew that no matter what happened in the pool, she was already his champion.

The following morning, the air in the stadium was electric. The stands were packed with screaming fans, and the pool gleamed like a giant, aquatic battlefield. Kate and Leon met each other's gaze across the water, and for a moment, it was as if they were the only two people in the world. Then the starting gun fired, and they were off, their bodies moving in perfect harmony with the water.

The race was a blur of color and motion, each stroke a silent declaration of love and war. They pushed each other, challenged each other, and ultimately, it was Kate who touched the pad first, breaking the tape with a triumphant smile. But as she turned to face Leon, she saw that he was not far behind, his eyes shining with pride and admiration.

In that moment, as the crowd roared and confetti fell around them, Kate realized that she had won more than just a race. She had found someone who understood her, who knew her strengths and weaknesses, and who loved her for all of it. And as they embraced, their hearts beating in sync, she knew that no matter what the future held, they would face it together, as equals and as champions.

Their relationship grew stronger with each passing day, each practice a silent negotiation of love and competition. They learned to balance the delicate scales of their emotions, to support each other in victory and in defeat. The bond that had been forged in the heat of the pool had transcended the boundaries of the sport, becoming something deeper and more profound.

But the swimming world was not without its challenges. Jealous teammates and whispers of favoritism followed them like shadows, and the pressure to win grew heavier with each race. Yet, Leon and Kate remained steadfast, their love for each other fueling their determination to succeed. They became each other's rocks, each other's air, and each other's inspiration.

The national championships were a whirlwind of emotion and adrenaline. Medals were won and lost, records were shattered, and through it all, Leon and Kate's eyes never left each other's. They were no longer just rivals; they were partners in a dance that was both fierce and beautiful. As they stepped onto the podium together, holding hands and basking in the glow of their success, they knew that they had found something much greater than gold.

In the end, it was their shared passion for swimming that had brought them together, but it was their love for each other that made them unstoppable. They had proven to themselves and to the world that sometimes, the greatest rivalries can become the most powerful alliances. And as they looked into the horizon of their futures, they knew that no matter how rough the waters got, they would always have each other to keep them afloat.

The whispers and jealous glances from their teammates slowly faded away as Leon and Kate's bond grew stronger. They had learned to navigate the treacherous waters of their relationship, turning every challenge into an opportunity to grow. They became an unshakeable force in the swimming world, inspiring not just their peers but also those who watched them from the stands.

But it wasn't all smooth sailing. There were moments of doubt, of fear that their love would somehow taint their competitive spirits. They had to learn to separate their personal lives from their professional ones, to keep the fire of their rivalry alive without letting it consume them. It was a delicate dance, one that required trust and communication.

Yet, as they stood on the edge of the pool, their eyes locked, ready to dive into the cool water for yet another race, they knew that they had found a balance. The water was their battleground, but outside of it, they were each other's sanctuary. And as they pushed off the starting blocks and sliced through the water, their hearts pounding in unison, they swam not just for themselves, but for the love that had transformed their lives.

Their story became the stuff of legends at ASU, a tale of passion, rivalry, and love that transcended the boundaries of the pool. As they graduated and moved on to compete internationally, they carried with them the lessons they had learned from each other. They were no longer just swimmers; they were a team, a force that could not be denied.

And when the time came for them to swim in the Olympic games, the entire world watched as they glided through the water, their strokes a testament to their journey. Whether they won gold or not, they had already achieved something far greater: a love that had made them both better athletes and better people. And as they touched the wall together, their hearts swelling with pride, they knew that no matter what the scoreboard said, they had already won the race that truly mattered.

Would like to say thank you to @laeana, @scottstr3et, @sashasedah, for giving me the push to write for Léon.

[caputvulpinum]

As someone who has lived in many States here are my opinions I'll die on the hill for:

Massachussetts: Is exactly what you think Massachussetts is like. This is not a compliment. Not an insult either depending on how far away from Brockton you are.

Pennsylvania: Ain't nothing worth finding in those woods.

Florida: Ain't nothing worth finding in everywhere except the Everglades, Rainbow River, or plover-beaches.

California: The oranges are not worth Bakersfield. No, neither are the pistachios. But at least Bakersfield had oranges and pistachios over The Fucking Bay Area, which has The Bay Area, and I don't truck with that. If you're from TBA you know why you deserve this.

Nevada: We get it you have an empty desert.

Arizona: We get it you have a stony desert.

Texas, West: We get it you have an empty desert but screamed much much much louder at a big bright bowl of the night sky and ain't nothing screaming back except the coyotes.

Texas, East: All Hail West Texas, Actually.

Mississippi and Louisiana: The sweet tea and summer storms are almost worth the near constant natural disasters every other damn month. Shut the fuck up about Ole Miss vs Mississippi State if it ain't about football it don't matter unless you're some rich legacy brat.

Washington: Most breathtaking cloud forests in America. I wish I could take the breaths out of most Washingtonians because FUCK you're either insufferable, apologetic, or a Nazi. I want to study your polycule politics.

Oregon: Portland is not as annoying as Corvallis because in Corvallis y'all have a superiority complex about not being Portland.

[thechanelmuse]

Black American Cowboy & Rodeo Culture in Arizona

"Since it first began in 2011, the Arizona Black Rodeo has become one of the biggest and most renowned Black American cultural and educational gatherings in the Grand Canyon State. The event celebrates the rich history and contributions of Black cowboys and cowgirls. It seeks to preserve this often-overlooked part of American history while providing a thrilling and family-friendly experience. Here, participants compete and shed light on the significant role Black Americans have played in shaping the heritage of the Southwest.

"Over 100 cowboys and cowgirls participate, hailing from Arizona, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico and California. The Arizona Black rodeo commences with the performance of the Black National Anthem, followed by grand entry celebrations and a tribute to the Buffalo Soldiers. Some of the main attractions of the Arizona Black Rodeo include bull riding, steer wrestling, saddle bronc and bareback riding, and barrel racing." (x)

Black American cowboy and rodeo culture is a long-standing tradition dating back to the 1800s. They even had a 4-year-old cowgirl out there this year ❤️