#like travis is probably one of the least problematic people there is

[killa-trav]

i hate the internet so much, jason having to clarify that the grad ceremony was literally just some fun bc ppl are shocked that a 34 year old man drank a beer like wtf is wrong w ppl

[k2ntoss]

thinking of mentor john who just tries to handle his apprentice’s teenage dirtbag era 😭😭😭 you know he had a phase like that too and i just wanna know how he would react at his apprentice 😔

i just adore the thought of john's parenthood life, it just makes me giggle so BAD i need to be seized asap mmmmmm

mentor!john constantine, give him a break because the poor man doesn't know well how to deal with the whole teenage dirtbag era and he knows he had one that came out as problematic and messy all the way (sometimes he's still into that era, lets face it) but your teenage dirtbag era? that's different for him and at least he thanks god your's is not as cringy as some other teen he has seen because god forbid you turn into a pick me girl or a weird jock, he'd shoot himself in the head before having to deal with that but having a weird kid? that's not as bad as he has to go through the whole emo phase that will probably not be a phase (i'm projecting myself here, sorry), the insistence of letting you join a band and he swears that's the last time he indulges something like that because that's were it came the kinda punk phase of your teen years and you've been waking him up early on weekends trying to play the drums like travis barker while john tries to sleep his fourth hangover of the week.

"couldn't you at least waited 'til it was a little later, kid?" he asks in a grunt when he shows up at your door and his voice has to be a bit loud as you keep the noise up and john swears he wasn't like this when he was young "there are people here trying to sleep, lass"

but there's no use when you whine about him not letting you express yourself freely and it only adds to the way you've became an outcast, the all black clothing and grunge style embraced with the whole aura of a sorceress' apprentice and john has to deal with it all while asking zee what is he supposed to say when you start talking about this guy you like but would likely never look back at you

[kvtnisseverdeen]

This is my humble take…

Joe Alwyn was Taylor’s best boyfriend. She knows this and her fans know this. But he demands actual work and accountability. Taylor is a white rich conservative girl first and foremost. And she’s very narcissist. Joe is the first boyfriend of hers to put actually limits on how her public personal affects him and their relationship. And she liked dating him at first because he was private and reserved and she was desperately trying to scape the industry and she found the most non-industry British man ever. She liked that security and knowing he didn’t attract that much attention. Then, she slowly gained her reputation back on track and realized that she could finally go back to being the person that plays for the media again. And yes, maybe her relationship with Joe was slowly fading — it happens a lot. But she clearly says in her lyrics that wanting to be shown off in public is one of the reasons too. Because she likes that every relationship she’s in gets consumed by her fans and the media.

And Joe Alwyn required her to go and do some work on herself! He comes from a very activist family. He was the one that made her be more open about social activism. It was because of him that she tried to do the bare minimum like encouraging during elections, have more racially diverse people on her music videos and tours, and do a very cringey job at supporting lgbt rights. But it was at least something…

Isn’t funny that the moment they broke up she went back to being very problematic? The climate terrorist that she’s been for the pass year and then wanting to sue people for spreading her private flights information (knowing this is public information). Then dating that racist man that mocked woman of color and admitted to watch what he did, being quiet about the war that’s going on, and the lame and immature issue she created over some of Olivia Rodrigo’s songs (a literal new artist and teenager at the time) to the point she cut total ties with her and her next man being a very typical conservative macho man that seems to love the attention just like her. She’s back at being who she’s always been…

“Your integrity makes me feel small” Yes, Taylor, indeed. I am glad you know this too.

oh you absolutely have said it all. this is extremely well said and on point.

i find it so odd that most swifties can't pinpoint that the real issue between joe and taylor was taylor once again giving into the industry and being a rich white capitalist which is something joe is not and does not want to be, and most likely caused the demise of their relationship. taylor herself has said this in her songs (like the lyrics in peace, as you said). so yeah, maybe she wanted marriage but joe probably wasn't comfortable marrying someone who had completely different morals than him which is his right. let's be real here.

and oh the relationship between her and travis probably set her "redemption arc" far back than ever. she really was finally speaking up on so many matters and now she's dating a problematic trump supporter, giving into the media frenzy with the NFL, and has done no activism despite having the biggest platform. i think what sucked the most was her being times person of the year and using it to talk about travis and how she wasted 6 years of her life being private. so disappointing. and the cherry on top are some of the lyrics from ttpd (ex. 1830s racism lyric) like WHAT?

another thing swifties misinterpret is that no one would've known joe if it wasn't for taylor and that he's living off of his songwriting credits from folklore/evermore. joe who is notoriously low-key and has stated he just wants to be seen as human never used taylor for clout and has avoided saying her name in interviews, even after the break-up. not because he didn't love her, but because he did not want to feed into the media frenzy. and if all eyes are on him, he's using it to make a statement about palestine which is amazing. sure, you may not have known joe alwyn if it wasn't for taylor but he never used taylor's fame to make him more famous. and might i argue, it was taylor who despite releasing positive songs about him sometimes didn't defend him (like in the folklore sessions where jack antonoff was obviously being rude to him? or how she told her fans not to go after john mayor releasing speak now tv but didn't say anything for joe when her fans have been harassing him like crazy?)

on the other hand, we have travis kelce who has most definitely brought her up in every capacity like on his brothers podcast and let's be real, most of the swifties didn't know who travis was (i didn't!) unless they were football fans. we saw proof of that when NFL sales and viewership was significantly higher. so yes, travis is using her name for clout and feeding into the media frenzy. and then you have swifties saying he loves her and supports which yes, can be true, but you cannot deny that taylor and travis' relationship fed the media, fed the NFL, and diverted attention from more important issues like gaza. and while taylor and travis had their eyes on them, they didn't use it to do any good.

so yes, you are right. joe was taylor's best boyfriend.

[myhockeyworld87]

Bubble Wrapped - Part 1

Word Count: 2,683

POV: Reader

Warnings: Language

Notes: Ok so here is basically our introduction to the Bubble Wrapped story. I have no timeline for this thing or even if it will continue, you guys let me know. As a background, this story will be about life inside Hotel X. In case you don’t know the teams inside Hotel X are the Bruins, Capitals, Flyers, Penguins and Lightning. So here we go, Happy Reading!

You'd been shocked when Hotel X had been picked as one of the hotels for the NHL to stay at when they resumed play in Toronto. Even more so when you were asked if you would take over the management of the place over the next several weeks. "Listen (Y/N) we know we are asking a lot. You'll have to live at the hotel with all the players as the NHL is really trying to keep everyone in this little bubble."

 "I understand. I've already talked to Carly about putting different measures in place when the Maple Leafs came to us before submitting their proposal." Carly was another member of the hotel staff, that served as one of their concierges. She knew the ins and outs of the city and could get tickets or dinner reservations on the drop of a dime. That was all before COVID though. Now, some restaurants were still closed and shows hadn't resumed yet. What once was a bustling city, had come to a dead stop over the last several months, though things were starting to get back to normal; well the new normal that is.

 "So we heard." You hoped the blush that crept up your cheeks couldn't be seen on the zoom call as that had become their new form of communication with you. "You've dealt with the players before, we know you can handle it. Though this time it'll be completely different with five or six teams staying there." Most of the players had always been super nice to the staff, though there were a few that could be demanding at times. You prayed they'd all push their egos aside, at least while in the hotel, though somehow you doubted that. "I think you're familiar with the NHL's protocol on their reopening, but we'll email you everything once we get it. Start putting together the staff that you want. Just some core people that you'll need."

 "I've got the right people in mind, don't worry."

 The call went for a bit longer going over specifics. The only benefit out of the whole thing was that they were giving you the Presidential Suite to stay in. Honestly, it was the least they could do; you thought. Of course, the called ending with them saying, "Don't let us down."

 As soon as it ended you called Carly making sure she was on board. "I'm just saying Car that many hockey players in the hotel; the testosterone is going to be flying around."

 "So what you're telling me is you've already packed an extra-large box of condoms."

 "Carly!" You shouted at your friend. "That's not what I was saying at all."

 "Come on (Y/N), I know you're one of Seguin's regulars when he's in Toronto."

 "I'm one of them because I can keep my mouth shut." It was true that when Tyler was in town during the summer or on a road trip the two of you always hooked up. Sort of a no strings attached relationship, though you did talk from time to time. "Besides he's not even going to be in Toronto. He's in the Edmonton bubble."

 "Oh, I didn't realize." Carly despite being from Canada was not a hockey lover, though she did appreciate the men who played the sport. "Well, maybe you should call him and get the scoop. You know find out who we need to be aware of."

 It wasn't a bad idea, not that you were going to ask him who to sleep with, but maybe it would help get a handle on who was going to be problematic, as there was no way you wanted to let the owners of the hotel down. You had a lot riding on this and after all, you couldn't put bitter rivals in one hotel and not expect some drama. "You're right. I am going to call him."

 "Ooo good, let me know what he says and if we should get more than one box of those condoms."

 You shook your head at your friend before hanging up and dialing Tyler's number. "Hey beautiful, long time no talk," Tyler said and you could almost hear the smile in his voice.

 "Hey Ty, how's quarantine life going?"

 "Ugh, don't get me started. I was not meant to be locked in my house without hockey for this long." Tyler wasn't meant to stay put anywhere too long, including relationships.

 "Well, hockey's almost back so there's that."

 "Yeah, I'm pumped about it, though I wish I was staying in Toronto instead. I know some fun that we could get up to since I have to stay in the bubble." He paused and you could clearly tell he was running different sex scenarios in his head. "I'm assuming your working at the hotel."

 "Yeah, it's kind of why I called. I'm one of the ones trapped in the bubble with you guys."

 Tyler groaned. "So, you called to ask me who you should hook up with? Cause babe, I'm not sure I'm willing to share you like that."

 "Shut up Ty, you know we're not like that. You couldn't stay faithful to one woman if you tried." Part of the reason the two of you got along so good, was the fact that you called him out on his bullshit.

 "I might if I could drag you with me everywhere." You giggled at the insinuation of being taken everywhere just so you could keep him satisfied. "You're definitely gifted with many talents (Y/N)."

 "You're not so bad yourself, but we're getting away from why I called."

 "You mean you didn't call to have phone sex with me," and you could hear his pout.

 "No, I didn't call for that. I was just curious if you had any idea who was going to give me problems while we're in this so-called bubble. I'm trying to be preemptive here."

 "Ok, but if I give you some information you at least have to promise to send me a pic of your tits." You mentally rolled your eyes at him; the boy was a horndog.

 "Fine, now spill some tea."

 "Spill some tea, what is this a gossip blog or something."

 "You're avoiding the question Ty, and I'm putting on a sweatshirt." He groaned.

 "Alright, don't get your panties in a bunch…or maybe do." It never ended with him. "I don't know a lot about some of the younger guys that are newer in the league, but my guess is they're all horny little bastards. Hell, I was when I first got in the league."

 "You still are."

 "Touché." He answered before continuing on. "So, like I probably don't have to mention the rivalries to you, but like Caps and Pens hate each other, the Flyers and Pens hate each other. Doesn't everyone just hate the Pens?"

 "I think you either love them or hate them."

 "That's true," he agreed with your statement. "The Flyers and the Caps hate each other as well and don't get me started with who hates the Bruins. Wow, who really put them all in your hotel?"

 "I'd like to know that as well." It seemed like whoever did, had a warped sense of humor and you were now going to be stuck handling the mess that they'd made. "So, basically what you're saying is that it'll be an all-out brawl at times that I'll have to clean up after."

 "Sorry babe, but I think it could be. On the bright side, we're supposed to stay on our own floors."

 "Like that's going to happen." Maybe you should designate elevators or something because you could just see Alex Ovechkin and Claude Giroux getting in one at the same time and by the time, they got to your lobby they'd both be bloody and beaten. "Anything else I should know?"

 "You seriously want me to go there?"

 "I mean...if you want to." You certainly weren't going to ask but if he offered the information you'd tuck it away for later that's for sure.

 He sighed heavily, "You know I hate this, but like Tom Wilson gets around that's for sure and I've heard that Travis Konecny does as well. If I'm being honest there's maybe been a girl or two that's compared us."

 "Really?"

 "That doesn't mean you have to be one of them, though if you are…you better tell them I'm better."

 "Don't worry Ty, I'll sing your praises. I promise." Obviously, you wouldn't be doing that but it didn't hurt to stroke his ego a bit. "Anyone, to avoid?"

 "Marchy!"

 "Dude, he was like one of your best friends. Why would you say that?"

 "Because I know him. Stay away he's trouble." The fact that you could almost see the look on his face as he was telling you was comical.

 "Fine."

 "Oh and stay away from Carter Hart." The name sounded familiar.

 "The goalie from Philly? Why?"

 "Because you'll corrupt him." You burst out laughing and Ty joined you. "He's too innocent for you."

 "Dually noted, as I do not want to be known as the corruptor of innocents." You searched your mind thinking of anything else you could ask since you had him on the phone. "What about Crosby?"

 "Sid?" and he just couldn't stop laughing; you could even hear him try to catch his breath.

 "Why is that so funny? The man is hot Tyler, whether you want to admit it or not."

 He got serious as he asked, "Who's hotter him or me?"

 Thank god you weren't on FaceTime, so you could answer him without your features giving you away. "You are Ty, of course."

 "I thought so, but like the guy is hockey twenty-four seven. There's no way he's going to be thinking about getting laid."

 "That's disappointing."

 "He's about the only one that I'd give you permission to fuck, only because I know it would be impossible for you to accomplish, even given all your talents." You could hear the mischievous tone in his voice.

 "Hmmm, are you willing to bet on that?"

 "What? Like bet, you'll fuck Crosby in the bubble?"

 "Yeah." Did it really sound like such an unattainable accomplishment?

 "What's the wager?"

 "Winner flies out when this whole COVID shit is done and is the other's sex slave for twenty-four hours."

 "Oh, you are on, baby. I can already see you handcuffed to my bed in some skimpy lingerie." He cackled at the thought and it fueled your resolve to win this bet.

 "Don't be so sure about that."

 "And how am I to know that you actually slept with him?"

 Well, this would be tricky. "Well, it's not like I'm videoing it."

 "No, but that gives me ideas for when I win." Maybe you should be rethinking this gamble.

 "What do you want his underwear?"

 "Nah, you could get that in the laundry. But I'm sure you could sneak a pic of him sleeping." God that sounded creepy but if it meant you had Ty as your slave for a day, it'd be worth it and you'd never show it to anyone else but him and even then you weren't going to send it to him, though he didn't need to know that now.

 "Ok, it's a bet then."

 "Too bad we can't kiss on it."

 "Oh, you'll be doing more than kissing when I win, Seguin." Mentally you started packing sexy outfits to take into the bubble with you while thinking of all the things you'd have Tyler do the next time you saw him. "On that note, I better get my ass to work and make this hotel ready for these guys."

 "Fine, I'll let you go as long as you promise to FaceTime me at some point during this bubble thing."

 "I'm sure I'll have a night open for you at some point." You teased.

 "Woman, you better."

 "No worries Ty, you're still my main man; when you're in town."

 "That's right baby, good luck."

 "Thanks for all the info, Ty. We'll catch up soon and good luck in the playoffs."

 You were just about to hang up when you heard him yell. "Don't forget my titty picture."

 All you could do was shake your head and click end call, though you being a woman of your word, you snapped a quick pic and sent it off to him; to which he responded with a drool face emoji.

 The next couple of weeks were a literal whirlwind as you moved into the hotel's presidential suite and got things ready. Beds were moved out so that some rooms that had two queens now had one king in them. The hotel was disinfected from top to bottom. If felt like you were wearing a hazmat suit all the time during this process. A week before the players arrived the NHL staff did, making sure everything was in order and making sure you had things set up for daily COVID testing. Of course, you had everything well in hand and organized per their instructions, though with a few tweaks that made the process more efficient. Overall, they seemed impressed with everything that you had done.

 All that preparation lead up to the big day, July 26th, when the teams moved in. The league had them spread out so that no two teams were checking in at that same time. Tampa Bay was the first in as they traveled the furthest. "You look nervous. Why are you nervous?" Carly's voice came up from behind you as you saw the bus pulling in through the gates.

 "There's a lot riding on this Car, and if anything goes wrong; you know it's going to be my head that rolls."

 "You're going to do great; this whole thing is going to be smooth like a bubble." She started to giggle. "See what I did there…bubble." You rolled your eyes at your friend but did let out a little snort of laughter at her pun. "Well, here they come."

 You straightened your jacket and smoothed down your skirt, before throwing your mask up to go meet your first arrivals. "Gentlemen, welcome to Hotel X." You tried to speak a little louder than normal hoping the mask didn't muffle your words. "We're excited to have you all here. I'm (Y/N) manager here during your stay, anything you need, feel free to call me any time of day." More of the guys filtered in while you spoke to Coach Cooper and a few of the players.

 "Anytime huh?" you heard someone mumble in the background and a couple of the guys snickered. It was hard not to roll your eyes as you knew they were focusing on them with your face partially covered. Someone else said, "She can manage me anytime." That was until someone cleared their throat, effectively silencing them.

 "Now if you'll follow me, let's get you all checked in." Tables lined with a welcome packet and lanyard with their ID on it, were off to the side and you were able to shuffle them through with pretty good speed, then sent them off to their rooms before they had to head to testing. Your information was inside every packet, in case you were needed at any point during their stay. It seemed like you no sooner got them in and the area disinfected then the next team, the Capitals, were pulling in, and so the day went on until all five teams were safely ensconced in the hotel. Thankfully you made it through that process without any problems, even though the Bruins flight was late and the Flyers were pulling in right as you got the last players through.

 It wasn't until dinner, that you encountered your first dilemma, getting a text message from Alexis, who was coordinating the meals. It was a simple message, Get to conference room 3. NOW! As fast as your heels could take you, you headed down to where the Capitals were supposed to be having dinner if you remembered the schedule correctly. You never expected to see what you did though when you entered.

[blacksunscorpio]

Hey! Hope all is well. What are some indicators of rap talent in the natal chart? I’ve never seen anyone talk about rap or hip-hop in the chart

Oohhhh good one.

Indicators of Rap Talent in Astrology

Strong Mercurial Influence

This includes:

Sun in Gemini

moon in Gemini

Mercury in Gemini

Venus in Gemini

Mars in Gemini

Jupiter in Gemini

3rd House Dominant

Virgo placements

I’ve mentioned it before a few times on here but strong mercury influence in that natal chart is often found in rappers. We have to remember Mercury rules the lower mind, how we speak and communicate. It bestows on the native the “gift-of-gab” so when one has strong Mercurial influence, especially in benefic aspect one can have a way with words. This includes poetry, conciseness, and wit. A “bar” is basically a grouping of words that include all of the former. Mercury, when in harmonious aspect also gives one good rhythm, Something one needs if they’re to follow a beat well. They need to be able to go with the flow and hit every pause, break, and hook on a good beat, A good example of this would be Compton native Kendrick Lamar, whose Sun is in Gemini. Songs Like Rigarmortis, The Jig Is Up, M.A.A.D City and She Needs Me demonstrated that he has full control over his lung capacity and eloquence spitting each and every line. Christopher Wallace A.K.A the Notorious B.IG who hails from my hometown also has Mercury ruling over his Sun and he is considered one of the best rappers alive. His best friend turned Rival Tupac Shakur was also blessed by quick Silver. To this day, his metaphors resonate in songs like Changes, Hail Mary,  and Hit ‘Em Up. G Eazy is another who cannot get through one song without mentioning he’s a twin. Chris Brown is a crooner but if you’ve ever heard “Holla at Me” you’ll see the kid actually has bars. Azealia Banks, another Gemini [and rather under-developed] despite her problematic tendencies has quite a talent with words. Her song 212 is indicative of this. The Late Lisa Lef-Eye Lopes, Lauryn Hill, Naughty by Nature [all Virgo’s save for one], Ice Cube, and last but not least, one of the most polarizing people on the planet, Kanye West has his Sun and Jupiter sitting in all that airy energy. Despite his tendencies, we cannot discount his consistent hits since 2003. The man even found a way to spit verses with his mouth wired shut in “Through The Wire”. I believe the most developed influence of Mercury was presented to the world when he delivered us his Magnum Opus My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.

Leo Placements

We must not forget the nature of rap is boastful. It is not an art of humility or meekness. The nature of Leo is the very same. Apollonian energy needs to ROAR. It demands to be heard. It needs to proclaim itself “King”. As a result, you’ll find many Rappers with strong Leonine energy.

This includes: 

Sun in Leo

Mercury in Leo

Mars in Leo

Venus in Leo

Midheaven in Leo

The Late Great Ermias Asghedom A.K.A Nipsey Hussle has a stellium of solar energy with his Sun, Moon, Mercury, and Mars in Leo. The Notorious Tory Lanez also has his Sun and Mercury and Venus in Leo and his energy in most of his songs, especially Talk to Me Nice, Litty Again, Shooters and Blue Jay Season demonstrate his “IDGAF, Worship Me” vibes. I saw him in concert and that man is all about the showmanship. I was holding his legs up as he crowd surfed just so he could rap in the middle of the room. Young Thug, Stormzy Soulja Boi, Bobby Shmurda, and Lil Uzi Vert are also MC’s with Suns Steeped in Leonine energy.

Martian Placements

This includes:

Sun in Aries

Moon in Aries

Mars in Aries

Mercury in Aries

Mercury conjunct Mars

Mars Conjunct/Trine/Square Pluto

Mars Conjunct Chiron

Mars Conjunct Uranus

Mars Conjunct Jupiter

Why? Let's be frank, Rap is not a soft art. Many involved in the trade have come for very war-like backgrounds. It takes a tough individual to make their way through the game. Rap is also the art form of those who do not care to wait, they take what they feel is theirs. Such is the nature of Cardinal energy [Which Mars rules] As a result, you’ll find many Arians or those with significant Martian influence heavily involved in rap. Big Sean has his Sun in Aries as does Young MA, Ryan Lewis, Lil Nas X, and Ty Dolla Sign. Meek Mill of “Championships” and Drake Beef fame has his Mars conjunct Chiron [healing] and he has often expressed that his drive [Mars] for music has healed his wounds coming from a rough neighborhood in Philly. Lil Wayne also has Mars touching his Chiron and has expressed the same sentiments. In addition, we have Eminem with his Mars Conjunct Pluto. This is NOT a placement to be fucked with. If any of you have followed Marshall’s career over the decades, he has proven that he has not one fuck to give. This man dissed his own mother on his album. Let’s not forget how he aided in ending Ja Rule’s rap career after he roasted the man on Hailey’s revenge. This is the placement of someone who cannot wait and WILL not wait to call you out. He spent the 5 bars in Jimmy Crack Corn exposing his illicit sexual relationship with Mariah Carey. Yikes.

Plutonic Influence

This includes:

Sun in Scorpio

Mars in Scorpio

Moon in Scorpio

Venus in Scorpio

Mercury touching Pluto

Mercury in Scorpio

Why? Because Pluto is all about death, wealth, and sex. Many rappers cannot get through a song without reminding you they are either unafraid of death, unafraid of subjecting someone to said fate, reminding you about how much wealth they’ve achieved and the process in which they started from the bottom and now they’re here. Case in Point: Drake. Probably one of the most famous Phoenix’s in the rap game. Drake is steeped in plutonic energy with a stellium consisting of his Sun, Mercury, Venus, and Pluto. His drive is formidable. He boasts a Mafia-boss-Esque vibe with songs like “Going Bad” and “Mob Ties”. He’s transformed from Jimmy on Degrassi to a Multi-Platinum-selling artist. He does not stop when it comes to delivering content. Such is the nature of Pluto to forever rise/be reborn from the ashes. His buddy and favorite collab artist, Future is also a Plutonian [with a Gemini Moon]. Belcalis Almanzar whom you all know as Cardi B, though a Libra, has a Scorpio stellium with her Mercury, Venus, and Pluto sitting in Pluto’s domain. Her Moon is also in Aries [It explains so much, doesn’t it? lol]. Hip-Hop Heavy Weight Jay Z also has some Plutonic influence with his Mercury touching Pluto. He is probably the most tactical when it comes to merging his rap empire with his business ventures. The first Hip-Hop Billionaire. If that’s not Plutonic level tactics, I don’t know what is. On the same note, Sean Combs A.K.A Diddy is a November Scorpio and he’s right up there with Jay Z in regard to turning his rap game into an empire. Bad Boy is the reason we even know who Biggie is. Rapper Nas has his Venus in Scorpio as well.

Taurean Influence

This includes:

Sun in Taurus

Moon in Taurus

Mars in Taurus

Taurus MC

2nd House dominance

Taurus Mercury

Remember, Taurus Rules the throat. In addition, Venus rules the 2nd House of material possessions and what we appreciate. Again, Rap is boastful and most of the individuals involved will never let you forget who they are or what they’re capable of. Meek Mill again is a Taurus Sun as is Travis Scott. Machine Gun Kelly before he switched genres is a Taurus sun. Aubrey has his MC in Taurus and so does his arch-nemesis Pusha T [who also has his Sun in Taurus]. Let’s not forget the Story of Adidon where he outed Drake’s Secret love child with a French Erotic Model [Smh]. Ruthless. Some other honorable mentions are Llyod Banks of G-Unit, Busta Rimes, and Ghostface Killa.

Sagittarius Placements

This includes:

Sun in Sagittarius

Jupiter Dominant

Moon in Sagittarius

Mercury in Sagittarius

Mars in Sagittarius

Sag is ruled by Jupiter which is all about expansion. There can also be a touch of drama with all that fire energy going on. As a result, rappers with Sag placements make their presence known. They will not stop until they’re heard. Prime example of this is the Barb herself, Nicki Minaj. Say what you want about the Queens native, her verse on Monster was probably the best out of everyone. Objectively of course. Beyonce’s Hubby Jay Z is an archer as is Compton Native The Game, Offset, and DMX.

[thecompostpile]

Ice Cream Essay 6 Death To Los Ice Creams

When Chikara ended it wasn’t like the fake ending they had done in the past. It came quickly over a three or four day period in June of 2020. The Speaking Out Movement happened fast and soon a grim story of all types of wrong doing over the entire history of Chikara was laid out. A lot of people, who had already been chased off by Chikara seemed like they saw it coming. A lot of people took it hard. Hallowicked and then almost all of the roster, besides a few, announced their resignment from the company. It was a rough couple of days of it but it seems like it turned out alright. While i would have liked to see more chikara it wasn’t worth people being trained in an unsafe environment. It seems like a lot of wrestlers are having a lot more fun. Hallowicked has started a video game channel and a youtube channel, Edith Surreal has become one of the biggest stars on the indies, Max Zero showed everyone he was hot. Camp Leapfrog is still hit or miss but has mostly filled the Chikara void pretty well. It is what it is. Over a year later and the decision for Chikara to shut down has changed my life very little. 

However, I did never get to say goodbye to my favorite wrestlers, Los Ice Creams. One of the best matches I have ever seen live was an atomico match with Travis Huckabee Solo Darling and Los Ice Creams vs Cajun Crawdad, Rock Lobster Crummels and Defore in Enfeild Connecticut. Which lasted a whooping 27 minutes and not once did i ever want it to end. My boys Los Ice Creams who always made me giggle as one of the funniest things in indie wrestling in a scene of dudes trying way too hard to be funny. Los Ice Creams who got the loudest I’ll ever pop for wrestling when they surpise came out for. Los Ice Creams whose silly masks were one of the things that first drew me to Chikara. I know they were a little stupid and kinda problematic but I really liked them and now they are gone.

This wasn’t supposed to be the Los Ice Creams essay I wrote. I wanted to write about all their matches. I wanted to write about they joy they brought me. To share a thing that made wreslting fun a special with people. Something that anyone could watch even without liking wreslting and laugh at. You’d have to be crazy to not think the Los Ice Creames masks were cool. A complete slag if you didn’t think their matches were fun. But i didn’t get to that essay in the two years I had the idea and it seems like a likely never will. 

I know the rumors of who they are and I’ve heard that Quack is going after people for using the names he came up with. I know they are never going to come back. Even if they did it would never be the same. I’m bummed I haven’t seen them wrestle live since 2017. I always wanted a Los Ice Creams mask and probably will never be able to now. I wish I at least could’ve known my last time seeing them was going to be the last time I saw them. Their last match was a tag team match with the Bird and the Bee at 2020’s Young Lion Cup that never made it to tape so their last recorded match was just the tag gauntlet from King of Trios 2019. Sometimes I hope a Los Ice Creas Jr Junior or El Hijo Del Ice Cream Jr will come and wrestle for somewhere like Camp Leapfrog. A third generation Los Ice Creams. But I know that unless it’s literally me it is unlikely to ever happen. While CM Punk might be back giving everyone ice cream we will never see Los Ice Creams again.

[ichayalovesyou]

Enterprise: Terra Nova (Live Reaction)

Aw Travis, he seems like a podcast kinda guy lol

MY DREAM COMES ALIVE AT LEAST TOUCH THE SKYYYY WE GOT FAITH IN THE HEAEAEART FAIIIITH BELIEVEEEEEE I GOT STRENGTH IN MY SOULLLLL NO ONE GONNA BEND OR BREAK ME REACH THE STARS

Ooooh missing colony ghost town hours, T’Pol passive aggressively (but probably correctly) pointing out that some really shady shit probably went down between Earth & Terra Nova. No people, yes buildings, but with radiation, sounds like a recipe for a malevolent gaseous entity or weird plague!

Oh shit that’s a whole ass person!! Ohhhhh sentient life forms were already there I bet, I don’t know what we humans were expecting?! A life sustaining planet with no sentient life on it, did we not check?! The more things change 🙄🙄🙄

OOp found the people, yikes WHO SHOT HIM I DIDNT SEE??? They have guns?! Shit Malcolm’s been hit and nabbed!! Crap! Crap! Crap!!! Oh they ARE human, okay. Archer being surprisingly understanding, okay okay good. Oh, I see what this is about, aw, Archer :)

Oh I was RIGHT! Earth did fuck with them!! Typical! Bio weapons even maybe ohhhhhh wow. Awww Archer, I think you’re wrong man, I’m sorry. Good to know we have a cure for cancer in the future tho.

OH GOOD ARCHER IS RIGHT AND IM WRONG, I’ve never been happier to be wrong!! Ohhhh man. Cool! Skull flutes! I have a couple of the shrieking kind at home. Oh noooo the water is infected, and they have to take them with them that’s gonna be SO HARD 😱

These are some HARD questions oh MAN, T’Pol is RIGHT but it’s also FUCKED UP ohhhhh MAN there’s no Prime Directive and even then they’re HUMAN so it doesn’t apply as directly. Oh oh okay! Relocating them is good!! OH SHIT SINKHOLE!

Uh oh uh oh crushed leg boy!!! Trust excercises! Here we go here we gooooooooooooo!!! Man this has Private Little War but less problematic vibes. Hell yeah grandma Novan!! Travis you need to read up my man. Amelia Earhart was left to die on purpose, they told people to ignore radio signals claiming that they were Amelia Earhart that that they were probably pranks. And I think I read somewhere they actually even found her remains.

Stuff like that is why I assumed Terra Nova got purposefully erraduated by Earth. Thank you Star Trek, for the helping of optimism. Sometimes my cynic gets the better of me.

[asterbi]

so I finished sally face

SALLY FACE SPOILERS (INCLUDING EPISODE 5) AHEAD

I played through the entire game two days ago (i had already watched both jacksepticeye's and gloomgames' lets plays for the first four episodes) and yeah, I know I'm a week and a bit late late, but I have some thoughts

Also I’m so sorry for how long this is, I know no one cares but I just started rambling and I couldn’t stop

First of all, criticism:

I'm getting real fucking tired of "ooOOooOOOoo a native american myth so scary and otherworldly" like dude shut the fuck up that's disrespectful as

Also (and please correct me if I'm wrong) I'm like 99% sure that the native american myth in question isn't real which. is somehow even worse

He buried his gays (tbh I wasn't that annoyed at this one because 1) at least one of the gays lived and 2) he buried pretty much everyone else too but I feel like it had to be said)

Now. Let me preface this by saying I loved travis' redemption, which I'll get more into later. However, I really didn't like the fact that travis' character played into the whole 'homophobes are gay' thing, which is a uhhhh vaguely problematic trope

The ending was unsatisfying. I'll get more into it in a sec

Larry was one of my favourite characters, and I know he's a fan favourite too. Considering the fact that he is a main character and he's been given a lot of attention and development, having him disappear at the end without any explanation and barely a reunion or a goodbye was an asshole move.

I would have loved to see some more worldbuilding and lore, especially getting into what exactly the red eyes plague did, why the cult wanted to summon red eyes, how the whole replacement thing worked, what happened with charley, and what exactly the whole mother tree thing was with larry

Ash's extremely triggering and graphic suicide. I understand this is a horror game. I understand that this sort of thing is expected and normal in horror games. But showing players imagery like that without so much as a content warning? That's not okay.

Some of the characters were left really underdeveloped. Sal and larry were great, and ash saw a lot of development in the last episode, but todd, neil, and travis, who were given a fair bit of attention as well, were pretty 2d (not so much travis, but still)

And now for things I enjoyed:

The entire game

Despite everything I said earlier, this is still one of my favourite games, and I really really loved it

Sal was a f a n t a s t i c character. 0% toxic masculinity, 12/10. I love the fact that he was so kind and calm towards everyone, even those who were rude to him, but still knew where to draw the line and wasn't a total pushover. I especially love the fact that even though he likes feminine things and wears pigtails and whatnot, he is a cishet guy. While more lgbt+ representation (particularly trans people and wlw) would've been great, I also like that the game shows that you don't have to be lgbt in order to be gnc, especially since the gnc person is both a man, and the main character, which is really uncommon. Also disabled representation!! That's really fucking awesome

Larry was also brilliant!! Loves metal, loves art, has a criminal record, cries during sappy movies, does drugs and dabbles in illegal activities, wants to go to college, is openly and unapologetically affectionate towards his friends and unafraid to tell them he loves them

Ash was not one of my favourite characters but I really love how she developed from sceptic to believer and the way she changed and faced her own problems, and to some extent had her own story (although it did rely fairly heavily on sal’s, which was :/ but then again everyone’s story relied on sal’s)

Okay so back to travis - I loved his redemption arc so much, because he was a redeemable character. I see so many characters who get redemption arcs that absolutely do not deserve them, but travis was a good person born into a horrible situation, and I’m glad they explored homophobia and abuse (although I’m not happy about the homophobes are gay thing like I said) and made him a hero at the end. I’m also glad that we got foreshadowing that it would happen, and it didn’t come totally out of left field

Speaking of which, props to steve gabry for not pulling an endgame and just throwing things in for shock value. Sal coming back in ep 5 was hinted at, travis’ redemption was hinted at, and of course the events of the first four episodes were hinted at because they were memories. Even ash and neil’s involvement in fighting the cult despite being a sceptic and someone totally ignorant about it respectively made perfect sense, and though the parallel universes thing and larry’s reappearance was a surprise, it still sort of fits with how the lore of the game works

The different game styles in episode 5 were absolutely out of this world. All of them were fantastic (although fuck you 3d sal you were Not fun to play), and I thought that was a really cool interpretation of the parallel universes thing

The writing was consistently really good throughout the whole game, and it genuinely makes you so attached to all of the characters, which makes the ending all the more upsetting

This is more personal but I really loved like. The Aesthetic of the game? It was so grungy and out there, and little things like the necrolight guitar and the super gear boy just added to this whole vibe of teenagers-trying-to-do-good-in-a-messed-up-world and I can’t explain it but it was great

The game really didn’t shy away from any aspects of horror, but it also did it in a really well written way that creeped you out without relying on random jumpscares, which was awesome. I mean they had e v e r y t h i n g - mass cannibalism, demonic rituals, cults, prophecies, murder, human sacrifices, suicide, nudity but in the creepy way not the sexy way (the random gory scene in ep 5 where neil and maple were hanging naked and dead upside down really startled me because I just didn’t expect it from this game and it just freaked me out more), aliens, creepy puppets which reminded me of dhmis, the list goes on

The main part in episode 4 where larry and sal are working together in different dimensions?? Poetic, amazing, 12/10

Final opinions: I absolutely loved the characters, the story, the general aesthetic of the game, and the art style and writing. Episode 5 was probably my least favourite episode, because I found the ending really vague and unsatisfying, although I absolutely loved all the different game styles. I also found that a lot was left vague and unanswered, and not really in a good way???? Also the representation and stuff was great (especially disabled rep, because that’s rare), but there were a few things that rubbed me the wrong way :/ Still, sally face is one of my favourite games, and I’m so sad that the series has come to an end :(

[sallyface-incorrect]

The Struggles of Having ADHD

- Only Being able to sleep either 2 hours or 16, there’s no in between. I am legit typing this at 3:02 am because I can’t sleep and I haven’t slept that much and it sucks. Summer is for sleeping, not for stress.

- Not being able to remember basic information about someone like their name, but being able to remember that they once told you that their great great aunt had a mole on her foot the shape of Texas. True story btw, sorry Amber.

- Feeling like your being rejected if your friend can’t make it to hang out with you because of family reasons. RSD is a bitch. Like the tiniest thing can make you feel rejected. Ie, your mom telling you not to be so loud, someone asking why your sneezes are so loud, someone asking you to return their pen, etc.

- Having your medication ware off/forgetting to take it and being the most annoying bitch in the galaxy. I once went on a school trip and my meds wore off and I ended up spending the 2 hour bus ride back annoying the guy who was trying to sleep in front of me, again, I am so sorry Max.

- IDK if it’s just me but, chewing on literally everything. Bottle caps, paper, fabric, rubber (my favorite), and much more. I used to get punished all the time for chewing on things I wasn’t supposed to. Nail biting is also a big thing. And so is hair chewing.

- Being told “You’re too smart to have ADHD”. Well Susan, I have a neurological devolpmental disorder, I’m not retarded.

- Either giving too much information or not enough when in conversation, and also bringing up really irrelevant things in the conversation like, I know we’re talking about the Louisiana Perchance but can I tell you about this one time it rained and I saw a snail?

- Being botherd by loud and/or repetitive noises. Pen clicking and high pitched sirens make me want to scream. They suckkk harder then Travis wants to suck Sal’s dick. And the worse is when people think you’re weird or that you have a problem with them for asking. I understand you like to click your pen and I’m so sorry it’s just so loud...

- Being afraid of your friends rejecting you. Again, RSD is a bitch. Like you’re afraid that one day your bestie will get up and leave and never come back and it’s all your fault and you suck and ughhhhhh. You’re also afraid their s/o / parents hate you and one day they’ll convince them to just leave you.

- Medication is a godsend but it’s also problematic. The stuff that I take fucks up my sleep schedule, my appetite, and make me tired and nauseous. It also gives me headaches and belly aches :(

- Either being so hungry that you also eat everything in your fridge or being so not hungry that even the concept of food disgust you. And sometimes, you even throw up because food is so gross and you’re gross and all that gross is inside you and eww.

- Intense, powerful migraines. They get worse in the winter months. Last year I took almost a week off of school because my migraines got worse and worse and worse and I couldn’t do it.

- Having no measurement of personal space or how to physically interact with someone. I just said hi, do I hug you, do I high five you, idk? Like idk how many potential friendships I’ve fucked up because I was too handsey.

- Being really particular about the type of clothing I wear. I love LOVE long sleeve shirts/ sweatshirts/ sweaters/ hoodies and shorts. I also love to wear socks around the house. I hate HATE wearing socks with shoes though, it makes me anxious. I also hate wearing certain types of pants. I literally only have 2 - 3 pairs of pants I’ll wear because pants sometimes feel like a tent and I hate that.

- Not being able to loose weight. I’m not fat, or chubby, I mean I have abs for God’s sake! It’s just that I have thick ass thigh I h a t e and I wish I could just get rid of them but my medication prevents me from loosing all that weight. On the bright side, I can eat a lot and not gain weight either.

- Having certain little routines you can’t skip. For example, every morning I must shave my legs and brush my hair or the world will end. I also must have all the doors and windows closed or else I’m gonna scream.

- Also idk if this is a problem for anyone else but doors and windows being open. I can’t stand it, I mean please, I don’t care that you’re just coming up for 1 thing but p l e a s e for the love of g o d, close the door that leads to upstairs. Having it open just isn’t right.

- Hyperfixiating on something for soo long that you forget to do basic hygiene like shower, use the bathroom, brush your hair, brush your teeth. It can get you in really big trouble but at least the job is done.

- Having a comfort item. Like I have this stuffed lamb whose name is “Lambchop” but I call “Lambie” and I sleep with them each and every night and carry them around the house with me when I’m home and if I’m upset I NEED to cuddle them bacuse it’s the only thing that will make the world go away.

- Being insanely good at certain academics and shitty at others. For example, when I was in 5th grade I was reading at an undergrad level and had the ability to understand science concepts a senior would be learning but my math was at the level of a second graders.

- Idk how to describe it but like, doing movements half way and the forgetting about them. Like this one time I was at a piano recital and I went to reach for something and forgot what I was reaching for so I just kinda held my hand up in a grabbing motion for half a song and then forgot about it until my mom reminded me to put it down.

- Not being able to understand that people don’t want to hear about your hyperfixiation. I’ve had 2 cases of this in my life, my “ghosts are definitely really and now this is my only personality triat” and my “I’m not a weeb but Tokyo Ghoul is so good now let me tell you all about the plot.” (Tokyo Ghoul gang REPRESENT)

- Having 3 different moods, hyperactive, normal, and cold. Like you’re normal most of the time but sometimes you’re sooo hyper that your an entirely different person, or sometimes you’re sooo distant you’re a different person too.

- Not being able to identify your emotions very well. Like, this guy just told me that my dad and my bestie are asshole who deserve to die in a fire, what am I feeling? Am I sad? Angry? Scared? Do I think this is funny? Am I gonna laugh? Cry? Idk, throw hands? Or the dreaded crush. Do I have feelings for this person or do I just want to be really good friends? Do I hate them? Love them? Am I gonna cry the next time I see them? Last time we hung out was fun but idk???

- Also like I mentioned, romance/sexuality is hard. Last time I dated I dated this guy I really liked, or at least I thought I did. We dated for three months before I blew it off because he asked to put his arm around me and it was weird when I said yes. Also sexuality. Idk if this is a problem for anyone else or just my bisexual ass. Like it’s so hard and I really like guys but hey, girls are hot. And like I like guys more than girls?? Sometime it makes me feel really fake.

- Really enhanced weird hearing. I know at least 80% of my classes drama because I have superhearing and I’m a literal hearing god bow down, bitch. I can hear the smallest of sounds and such, but for some goddamn reason I can’t understand how loud I’m being.

- Extestensial nihilism and just being cool about it. Like, dude, idk if there’s a god out there? I’d like to think there’s some sort of Devine power and we have a purpose but idk, we probably don’t have a purpose. I mean, we’ll be forgotten after we die anyway unless we’re Tom Holland. And love probably doesn’t exist either and it’s only stigmatized by movies and books and media and we’re all gonna get married and be miserable for ever and such. But like does it really even matter? In the end we’re all alone so go off I guess.

- Being really sensitive to smell. Certain smells drive me through the roof. For example, I have an extreme fish allergy and even smelling the slightest hint a salmon can give me a migraine so intense I think I’m dying. Or essential oils. Ughh I hate those. They send me through the roof.

- Being able to remember something you heard in a YouTube video you watched back when you were nine but not being able to remember when you birthday is some days because it really be like that.

- Being really good with little kids. Idk if everyone is like this but I am very childish myself and little kids love me. I have at least 3 little boys in 1st - 3rd grade who think I’m their girlfriend and 8 little girls in kindergarten - 5th grade who think I’m their big sister, it’s really sweet.

- Always apologizing is a big thing for me. When I was a child I used to get in trouble for saying sorry when I did anything and that carried to teen hood. Last year at my dance class my teacher noticed this and tried to help me break my habit god bless you Christine.

Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk bois. ADHD sucks but I know you can do it👌🏻

[purplesurveys]

1253

Have you ever actually drank warm milk? Sure. I never really drink milk because...well, I care about my stomach lmao, so I didn’t know there were mostly negative feelings about warm milk. That said, I’ve had it both cold and warm and don’t have a preference.

Have you used it to help you sleep? Did it work? No, because I’d be headed to the bathroom instead of my bed instead. Do you prefer to have milk when you eat cakes/cookies? I never have milk when having sweets. I prefer coffee.

What is your preferred brand of chocolate? The only chocolate bar I'll really eat is Twix. < Oooooh yes, Twix is good. Does Reese’s also count? That’s one of my favorites as well.

Do you like white chocolate? I love it. Milk chocolate is too sweet for me and irritates my throat most days, so I prefer to have white chocolate instead.

Do you use coconut oil for anything? What? No. It could be part of some products I use, but I wouldn’t be aware of them.

Have you been wanting to start watching any shows? I’ve been intrigued by the K-drama Nevertheless for quite some time, but I always find it impossible to start on TV series in general because most of them are toooooooo looonggggg, so idk if I’ll ever get on this. I’ve also been wanting to rewatch The Crown.

Are there any movies you want to see? Not really. Are there any movies/shows you've seen so many times you're sick of them? 50 First Dates. They kept showing it on one of the movie channels that we used to have for such a long time that I don’t really feel the urge to watch it again anymore, even though I actually really liked the movie and found it cute.

What about songs you've heard so many times you hate them? I wouldn’t go so far as to say ‘hate,’ but there are definitely a bunch of radio songs that are too overplayed. For instance, I like both Olivia Rodrigo and Billie Eilish but there’s been more than one instance wherein I’ll hear a song of theirs while I’m headed somewhere then hear the exact same song being played once I’m back in my car.

If you could look like any celebrity, which one would it be? I don’t wish to look like any of them, but I find Olivia Rodrigo very pretty.

Do you have any distinctive birthmarks? All of my birthmarks are on my backside so I can’t say for sure if they’re distinctive to other people lol. When was the first time you tasted alcohol? 18. I do distinctly recall one instance in high school where we were attending mass and we had to dip the host into the goblet of wine, but I had been in my I’m-never-taking-a-sip-of-alcohol phase so I just fake-dipped and consumed the host without the wine. I was around 16 or 17 then.

Do you wear socks under your slippers? Socks...under the slippers? I’m struggling to understand that lmao, but no I haven’t done this.

What is the coldest weather you've experienced? Japan was bitingly cold; second on the list would be Sagada – though I’m sure both places were cold just from a Southeast Asian standard because I live in a very humid and warm climate hahaha.

Have you ever eaten snow? Nope.

Are there any metals that turn your skin green? I don’t think so; at least this isn’t something I’ve experienced before.

Do you ever put honey in your tea? I don’t drink tea.

Do you know anybody who gets feminism confused with misandry? OMG this was my ex. This was Gabie AS FUCK. I hated talking about feminism and equality with her because the latter was just nonexistent to her and it was impossible to have a levelheaded, civilized conversation about this topic. She held some problematic opinions that I wish I went ahead and called out sooner.

Do you talk to your pets? Yeah, all the time. Kimi can’t hear well anymore but I talk to him just the same.

When you do, is your tone different from when you talk to humans?  Yes, my voice is definitely higher-pitched and my intonation also changes.

Who is a famous person you could see yourself reading an autobiography about? Min Yoongi.

What is the best horror movie, in your opinion? Ooh, kind of hard to decide on considering I haven’t watched any horror movies in a hot minute...but I’ll go with a constant favorite of mine, The Shining.

Curtains or blinds? Blinds. Has a better ~feel than curtains.

Describe yourself with 3 fictional characters. According to that fictional character quiz, (of the characters I know), I'm most similar to Rachel from Crazy Rich Asians, Mary from Eternal Sunshine, and Maeve from Westworld. Not sure if I 100% agree with those but. < Oh wow it’s been ages since I took this exam so I got intrigued and retook it just now. Unsurprisingly I’m still similar to Amy from B-99 and Monica from Friends, which I completely agree with lol. The #1 ranking I got though was Ann Perkins from Parks and Rec? which I haven’t watched before but there ya go.

Are there any numbers you dislike for any reason? Hmm, not really.

Do you own/wear any jumpsuits? Sure.

Do you wear long johns under your clothes when it gets really cold? No, ‘really cold’ is nonexistent where I live.

Have you ever adopted a stray? (Cat or dog)? No.

What's a movie you think more people should see? Portrait of a Lady on Fire.

Do you like anything starring Robert Redford or Paul Newman? I don’t think so. I remember having a big crush on Paul Newman way way back but I haven’t been able to watch a film of his.

Do you struggle with dry skin in the winter? No winter.

Do you have any friends in a different timezone? Not really, but relatives, yes.

Have you ever had to go without heat? Not relevant.

Do you read about any mythology? (Greek, Roman, Norse, Egyptian, etc) The subject is extremely boring to me, so no.

If you do, do you have any favorite gods/goddesses? No.

Have you ever had to take medication to help you sleep? No, I don’t have problems falling asleep.

Have you ever had to take medication to keep you awake? (Like No-Doz) No, just coffee.

Are you still in touch with the person you lost your virginity with? Nope.

Have you ever had sex with a friend? Technically yeah, but we were also already dating then.

Was it awkward afterward? No, because they had been my partner too.

If not, do you think you could ever have a friend with benefits? Eh, probably not. I don’t really care for sex so the thought of FWBs isn’t something I’ve actively looked for or even considering.

Do you know anybody with more than two nipples? Not in real life.

Do you ever use bath bombs? I only ever bought one once, and that was enough fun. It’s definitely not a necessity.

Do you think it's prettier when the moon is full, or a crescent? I like both, but I guess I like the full moon ever so slightly more.

Have you ever been to a planetarium? Yeah, it was part of our field trip itinerary back in Grade 6, if I’m not mistaken. If not Grade 6 it was Grade 7.

Have you grown to dislike your first email address? Yeah cos what the fuck was that email address and what was I thinking.

What skill that you have do you make most use of? I have to write literally everyday for work and even though it can get tiring, I’m also glad that skill of mine isn’t going to waste or isn’t being hidden.

Do you agree that some people are just not meant to have children? Yes, for sure. I would like to introduce you once again to the Philippines, where parents see their kids as a retirement fund. I am glad to see parental behavior has been gradually shifting with millennials, but Gen X-ers are definitely the worst at parenting.

Do you like wearing wool, or is it too itchy? Idk, I don’t think I’ve ever tried.

Have you ever gotten angry at an employee and complained to the manager? Jesus no. Unless said employee is harassing me and is starting to make me feel unsafe (and I can’t even imagine a world where that could happen), this is completely unnecessary behavior.

Have you ever sent your food back at a restaurant? No lol I just eat it and tip the waiter. Obviously if there’s a health risk, like if my chicken was raw or if I found a bug in my drink I would raise it, but I wouldn’t make a scene and would reassure the crew that it’s no big deal.

Do you think people remember the 90s as better than they actually were? I can’t tell for sure lmao I wasn’t born til ‘98.

What songs bring back happy memories for you? Humble by Kendrick Lamar, No Problem by Chance the Rapper, Sicko Mode by Travis Scott, Mo Bamba by Sheck Wes...that whole genre/sound. Takes me back to the fuuuuuucking fun times I had in college. Are there any smells that bring back happy memories? Not really. I associate my memories more strongly with music and places instead.

[jaelijn]

Carnell, Servalan, Gan

Oh, you’re making it hard! XD

Under the cut for length.

Carnell (whom I have given next to no thought before so here goes…)

1: sexuality headcanon: Pan, I think. I don’t think he’s bothered by gender (roles) in general, let alone in his partners.

2: otp: Idek? I like the dynamic he and Servalan had, but I can’t see it ending in any way other than how it did. Actually Orac would probably find him interesting and vice versa.

3: brotp: He… doesn’t really interact with many people… I also can’t really see him getting on with anyone on the Liberator. Perhaps Blake would be the most likely to be willing to overlook that he’s a psychostrategist…

4: notp: Oh what the hell. Him and Jarvik? That’d be horrid, anyway.

5: first headcanon that pops into my head: I think he’s the most likely of all characters to survive to old age.

6: favorite line from this character: Ppppffft, he’s in one episode! Possibly this: “Supposed to be the best chess computer available.Cost me a fortune. I don’t suppose you’d care to discuss myfee at this particular point, would you?“

7: one way in which I relate to this character: I… don’t know that I do. Possibly the fact that I have not given him much thought is a sign that I don’t feel much of a connection. Although I have just found one quote that I agree with so this: “Almost the only thing I never find boring:contemplating the infinite.“

8: thing that gives me second hand embarrassment about this character: Not directly embarrassment, but it will always amuse me that a by her very nature overlooked (former) slave brings down all those best laid plans.

9: cinnamon roll or problematic fave?Oh, sinnamon roll. ;)

Servalan

1: sexuality headcanon: Hmm… I can’t headcanon everyone as pan, can I? It comes down to: possibly heterosexual, but would use sex as a means to get what she wants regardless of gender of the other person if she thinks it’d work.

2+3+4 (doing these together now): otp/brotp: Um? Not Travis. Not really Avon either. But if circumstances were different perhaps a brotp with Avon. I don’t think a romantic/sexual relationship between them would work out well. notp: Avon when it’s even vaguely non-consensual from either side, which it often ends up being in fic (and in canon, really, but perhaps I’m oversensitive in this). And Jarvik and Egrorian, but that goes without saying really.

5: first headcanon that pops into my head: You can’t ask this about Servalan after forcing me to think about pairings… Essentially, that she uses and has always used sex as a way to power and that the only time she slips up with this is with Avon. This is not even really just a headcanon, there’s a bunch of canon evidence for this.

6: favorite line from this character: “It’s an old wall, Avon, it waits.”

7: one way in which I relate to this character Her fascination with Avon? :P No, in all honesty I feel the “career woman surrounded by idiots” thing sometimes, though far less in the circles of people where I can be myself that I’ve found lately.

8: thing that gives me second hand embarrassment about this character Her fascination with Avon. I’m completely convinced that that is the sole reason for her losses. If Travis was obsessed with Blake, she is obsessed with Avon, and it won’t end well even though we never see it on screen.

9: cinnamon roll or problematic fave?There are no unproblematic characters in B7, really, but since she is also a villain and my favourite villain, problematic fave probably fits.

Gan (last but not least!)

1: sexuality headcanon: Honestly, he is probably one I’d really headcanon as just straight.

2+3+4: otp: No one among the crew… I think he really loved the woman he was with pre-canon and wouldn’t want to be with anyone else so shortly after. So, her, I guess. brotp: Oh, Vila, clearly. notp: I don’t know. Possibly any considering what I said for OTP, but the crew are too multi-shippable for that to really be the answer. I mean I don’t particularly mind Gan/Vila even though I think Gan is straight either… Servalan?

5: first headcanon that pops into my head: It’s… not so much a headcanon than something I have from a fic, which is that at some point or another him and Avon connected over the fact that the person they loved PWB is dead.

6: favorite line from this character: Gan has horrible lines. Half the time it’s background chatter… I really don’t know. “You know, Vila, for a minute out there, I was actuallyquite beginning to enjoy myself.” from Deliverance is in my head, but that is all.

7: one way in which I relate to this character He doesn’t often get to take a stance, but there is something admirable at least about the steadiness of his morals. It’s not necessarily something I relate to, more something I think is worth aspiring to.

8: thing that gives me second hand embarrassment about this character: Blake just twists him round his finger every time. Despite the moral objections, even.

9: cinnamon roll or problematic fave?I don’t think even Gan is a cinnamon roll. But perhaps closest to it by comparison.

[mailorderfictionalcharacter]

Malcolm Reed, Geordi LaForge, Kes, and Janice Rand

Seven years and two plagues later; I respond. My apologies. Life. Y’know.

1. Sexuality Headcanons:

Malcolm - oh how I wish the powers that be didn't cowardly back off on the original plan, wherein Malcolm was openly gay. Oh well, let's Headcanon him in anyways. 

Geordi - bisexual, demisexual(just a vibe, not a very serious headcanon)

Kes - let's say bisexual. For reasons.

Janice - This is probably because I've only seen Janice in a few TOS episodes (I'm only doing a proper start to finish watch of the series now) and thus haven't reached the inevitable het romance, but as far as I'm concerned Janice Rand is a lesbian. If at any point she shows romantic interest in a man it's obviously an elaborate inside joke with Uhura. Janice Rand, very lesbian.

2. OTPS

Malcolm - I don't have one. I don't think Malcolm is the sort of person to want a relationship with a crew member and none of the men on the ship seem like a good romantic match for him. (If Malcolm got a love interest, they should probably be a civilian, more emotionally expressive). If I had to choose an otp Malcolm/Travis might work.

Geordi - I'm not super serious about it but Da Forge is a good ship.

Kes - I don't have any preexisting ideas about Kes' relationships other than "c'mon Neelix be the better person we know you can be," but, to make something up; Kes and B'Elana could be interesting because they're both very passionate and principled people but externally they present themselves very differently: Kes is caring, subtle, and calm whereas B'Elana is expressive, and a bit judgemental. Also Kes's morality is more about caring while B'Elana has a warrior's moral code, resisting injustice.  (There's a running theme in these asks because only interesting character foils can get me interested in romantic plots).

Janice - I enjoy the idea of Uhura/Janice Rand. Both are talented and Janice seems more level on and off duty whereas Uhura is a capable woman but an incorrigible flirt.

3. Brotps:

Malcolm - I would enjoy seeing a Malcolm/Hoshi friendship, mostly because Malcolm is very militaristic whereas Hoshi is more of the Civilian Science Nerd Who Got Swept Up In All this Rubbish. On the whole Enterprise forgot to do what tng/ds9 did well and allow their side characters to actually *gasp* interact, so pretty much any platonic relationship is up for grabs. Malcolm is an interesting character to work in contrasts; his disciplined nature compared to Phlox, or his close to the belt nature compared to Travis' comfort with his roots.

Geordi - Also Data and Geordi; they're so affectionate and supportive. I also really enjoy the dynamic between Picard and Geordi in the tng relaunch novels, considering Geordi is one of the remaining original crew members.

Kes - canonically, Kes and the Doctor all the way. So good. Remember when she extended his flu? Good scene. For an au take, I would enjoy a purely platonic Kes and Neelix friendship. They did have some nice dynamics canonically and I'd like to see a relationship without the squicky romantic possessiveness.

Janice - Rand and Spock. No good justification it's just that Spock goes well with everyone.

4. Notps:

Malcolm - Malcolm/Hoshi, Malcolm/T'pol, Malcolm/Archer. Not really established ships but in my mind each of these pairings are  a Bad Idea.

Geordi - I don't remember any established canon or fan popular relationships that made me cringe, so here's one: Geordi/Q. Awful idea.

Kes - Kes and possessive!Neelix. So many cringe moments

Janice - Rand and every damn person who falls in love with her and then tries to force her into sexual acts against her will why is this a plot multiple times for goodness' sakes. (Also not big at all on the idea of Kirk/Rand).

5. First Headcanon that Pops to Mind:

Malcolm - So based off the pineapple thing, let's say Malcolm has a ridiculous amount of personal experiences he never talks about. Like he had a steady boyfriend back on earth and never brings it up because it's not relevant. If prompted he has all these prank stories but you basically have to drag the information out of him.

Geordi - Geordi is also friends with Felix, who sent the Chief Engineer on Starfleet's flagship a sample program because he knows just how good he is.

Kes - Since Kes starts canonically developing her telekenetic abilities, let's imagine Kes as an absolute telekenetic prankster.

Also, after she leaves Voyager I like to imagine that some of what she got up to would be protecting the vulnerable, considering her past. (I don't think this directly contradicts canon but I actually try to forget that episode).

Janice - Janice Rand is so professional that no one expects her to have wild musical tastes. Like death metal, weird atonal music, lots of instrumentals, music from non-human planets etc*

*My lack of musical knowledge is showing, isn't it.

6. One Way I Relate:

Malcolm - I would also refuse to marry and copulate with my coworkers if we were stranded on a planet in an alternate timeline. My mom is also largely unaware of my food preferences.

Geordi - often interacts with people with an understated sort of humour. I would also subtly lecture ableist aliens and befriend the local android.

Kes - This example is more about admiration than relating, but I really enjoy Kes's compassionate curiosity and the sense of wonder that comes with her character.

Janice - In the episode Charlie X we see her being mature to someone who is A) probably quite traumatized and B) currently sexually harassing her. I relate to that sense of "oh, this situation is kind of worse for me and I'm still going to handle it fairly and levelly because of moral principles and rational empathy." Also even though she's backed into a corner she still tries to pass emotional labour off to Kirk and that's A+. ("Ask the Captain, he'll explain.") I'm sure lots of women (although not all women and not just women) could relate to that.

7. Something that Gives me Second Hand Embarrassment:

Malcolm - I have a distant memory of an episode where Archer, Trip, and Malcolm were all trapped in a pod, thought they were going to die, and Malcolm got about 10% sentimental? That always makes me unjustifiably embarrassed, but I don't even remember if that episode was real, so.

Geordi - nothing? I think Geordi may be the perfect human being?

Kes - the episode where she came back and tried to hurt all her old friends was pretty embarrassing. Also her relationship with Neelix.

Janice - From what I've actually seen of TOS, nothing beyond those damn impractical uniforms. If we have to see people in dresses at least show me Spock in a dress, c'mon.

8. Cinnamon Roll or Problematic Fave?:

Malcolm - I want to call him the problematic fave because he was somewhat militaristic, but nah, cinnamon roll. Let me see only the best in people like some sort of naive federation citizen. (Also Archer made way more questionable decisions and I don't remember enough about Enterprise to say that Reed ever did anything less than an exemplary job).

Geordi - Clear cinnamon roll

Kes - Clear cinnamon roll. No controversy there.

Janice - Definitely a cinnamon roll. Too good for this world.

[mml-nerdo]

1, 2, 5, 6, 8, 10, 15, 19, and 20

1.What OTPs in your fandom do you just not get?

Aphmau Fandom: Einmau. I-I just- f- why? Also Zane-Chan.

GOT Fandom: Obviously Jaime/Cersei. For quite obvious reasons.

Marvel (Avengers): fuuck I don’t know. Maybe Clint/Natasha because Clint’s married but I did ship it before knowing that.. so I don’t know. Ohhh I got it, Vision/Wanda. I don’t get it.

Marvel (Guardians): Drax/Peter. I’m not sure if this is common, but yeah, I just don’t get it.

Marvel (XMen): Mystique/Erik. 

TWD: I shit you not I’ve seen something Tara/Aaron. I got so confused, because they’re both gay.

2. Are there only popular fandom OTPs you only BroTP?

Aphmau: Dante/Travis.

GOT: Brienne/Jaime

Avengers: Stucky. Sorry, I’m a sucker for Stony, Civil War made me cry like a baby.

Guardians: Gamora/Peter. Like- I’m okay with it being canon because I know unless one of them dies in infinity war it’ll be canon. I’d just rather have them find someone else.

XMen: Erik/Charles. Like, I’ve already joked about romanticizing it, but in reality eh. I’d be okay with it, but they’re the ultimate- though problematic- bromance.

TWD: Daryl/Rick. Sorry.

5. Has fandom ever ruined a pairing for you?

Aphmau: Not yet surprisingly. 

GOT: Nope, I don’t expect the fandom to, I expect the show to though. There is so much death in that show and I can’t explain it to normal people.

Avengers: Steve/Natasha. Idk, they just overused it for a bit. At least in my experience.

Guardians: Nope, I don’t really know what they could do- I don’t really have a ship in guardians.

XMen: I don’t think so. I don’t recall them ruining a ship.

TWD: Nah.

Wow, it’s kinda sad the only one that was ruined was from Avengers. It’s surprising it wasn’t form Aphmau.

6. Has fandom ever made you enjoy a pairing you previously hated?

Aphmau: Aarmau. Now, without context this would be very confusing. I didn’t like Aarmau, but I didn’t hate on Jess for it... I just complained to my friends sometimes. And then the fandom just had a huge backlash on Jess and I defended her all the way through it. I didn’t necessarily defend the ship, I defended her. And then I kind of just opened my eyes and ears to find what Jess was trying to tell us through the relationship and I just found it more enjoyable, because the relationship between them is based on her and her husband, especially in mystreet. I just came to enjoy it more.

GOT: Daenerys/Jorah. I didn’t hate it, I just disliked it. And the fandom plus the show’s turn of events made me enjoy it more and cry for how hard Jorah tried to please Dany and I- was just a fucking wreck for a lot of the recent Jorah/Dany scenes.

Avengers: Nope

Guardians: I don’t have ships here. Only the Milano.

XMen: Jean/Scott. Idk it just did, I don’t have an explanation.

TWD: Nah

8. Have you received anon hate? What about?

Nope. Thankfully.

10. Most disliked arc? Why?

Aphmau: I have very strong feelings about the arc where Jeffory died. I still need more explained. And probably most of LLP and part of LL.

GOT: The Joffrey and Sansa betrothal arc. God I wanted to kill him.

Avengers: Age Of Ultron. It was just kinda eh. The only purpose it served was humor and new characters.

Guardians: I thoroughly enjoyed both movies. I don’t have a disliked arc.

XMen: XMen: The Last Stand. The movie that made them decide to reset the entire timeline in Days Of Future Past. I’m glad they did that because The Last Stand was painful to watch in more ways than one.

TWD: That arc where (spoiler alerttt for like fuck idk Season 5?? 4?? Somewhere around there)

Tyreese died. Yeah that. Pre-Alexandria.

15.Unpopular opinion about the manga/show?

Aphmau: I like Aarmau.

There you go.

GOT: I love saying “You know nothing, Jon Snow.” Idk if that’s unpopular but it seems like it.

Avengers: I prefer Iron Man over Captain America, but I ship them.

Explain that one to me please, I don’t even get it myself.

Guardians: The Gamora/Peter thing. Ya know, “The Unspoken Thing™”

XMen: Not really liking Scott that much sorry.

TWD: I don’t really like Carol. I mean she has bad ass moments but that’s all.

19.What is the one thing you hate most about your fandom?

Aphmau: The toxic hate. And the youtube comments, oh dear lord hide the children.

GOT: The incest part.

Avengers: I don’t know.

Guardians: *shrugs* 

XMen: Idk man, I haven’t seen the worst of the marvel fandoms yet.

TWD: the romanticizing of Negan. I just- no. I can’t do it.

20.What is the purest ship in the fandom?

Aphmau: Garroth/Kim. You can’t convince me differently.

GOT: There is no such thing as pure here, where have you been? But if I had to choose probably Tyrion/Sansa.

Avengers: Wanda/Anyone. Wanda is the purest fucking character, I will fight anyone who disagrees (I’m kidding, I don’t fight much.) She has enough purity for two people. 

It would still be pure if it was Wanda/Tony.

She would purify Tony, and that would be terrifying. And Cute. But Weird. But still adorable.

Guardians: Baby Groot and another Baby Groot. 

XMen: Keith/Anyone. Same thing as with Wanda.

TWD: Carol/Ezekiel. Idk. It just feels pure. Ezekiel is Pure.

[rolandfontana]

Beware the ‘Professional’ Reformer

James Doyle

It is a little startling to confront the sheer number of people who now earn their living as “criminal justice reformers.” This month saw the launch of the Council on Criminal Justice, the latest collection of “experts, innovators and influencers” intent on rethinking the justice system.

Reform has professionalized, and the profession is organized around discrete tasks that can be expressed in grant announcements, awarded, completed, evaluated, and (when promising) publicized.

Has this process fostered a vision of criminal justice change no individual participant would completely endorse, and which many participants would repudiate? Will it take on a life of its own?

Water is wet, but you can’t see “wetness” in any single molecule of H2O. Wetness is an “emergent” property that is visible only on the system level.

A similar principle can be applied to analyzing the emergent properties of the broad range of initiatives being advanced in criminal justice reform today.

The reform dynamic can amount to a one-way conversation, directed at practitioners. The practitioners will always need reforming; the reformers will always provide it.

This is not inevitable, but it bears watching.

A case in point: Risk assessment tools have emerged as a major element of efforts to to mobilize data as a means of reducing pretrial incarceration.

One such tool, developed by Arnold Ventures, has been the focus of recent debate. Attacked in a recent New York Times op ed column, it has also been vehemently defended.

Arnold promotes the Public Safety Assessment (PSA), an actuarial tool that it has developed and tested as a mechanism for safely minimizing pretrial detentions. Like other predictive tools, the PSA relies on a series of risk factors ( 11 factors and sub-factors),  all derived from the defendant’s past interactions with the criminal justice system, to estimate the danger of a failure to appear or a new crime.

Unlike many of the new predictive tools, the PSA’s assumptions, algorithms, and mechanics are available for public review.

The hope is that the PSA will filter out racial biases and lower pretrial incarceration rates—more specifically, that judges who substitute the PSA’s objective factors for their own preconceptions will discover that release is the right choice (or at least will have their backbones stiffened to do what they are afraid to do without numerical cover).

The PSA is an element of Arnold’s $48 million investment in the National Partnership for Pretrial Justice. 

The list of Arnold’s partners (“grantees” would be another word) in that effort reads like Homer’s epic catalog of the Greek ships drawn up before Troy.

An armada of grant-seeking, grant-executing, grant-evaluating, criminal justice institutions is represented in the National Partnership. Just to name a few of the individual vessels: RAND Corporation, Vera Institute of Justice, Urban Institute, Stanford University, RTI International, the National Center for State Courts, and the New York City Criminal Justice Agency.

Arnold’s website provides a comprehensive list of the individual research projects being undertaken by the think tanks. There is an astonishing amount of useful research underway.

Still, although many worthy efforts can be listed, the shape of the struggle—of the “greater than” zone in “greater than the sum of its parts”—hasn’t been given very much attention.

Will this really come down to an effort to prescribe, from the heights of the think tanks, in detail, and in advance, the steps to be taken by people on the distant frontlines?

Portraits in Risk

The signature tool of a contemporary reformer is data. But despite the heroic efforts of pioneers such as Amy Bach, the reformers frequently find themselves making do with the data they have rather than utilizing the data they need.

In PSA and similar efforts, the data is supplied by a system of portraiture that reduces the African-American men who are the intended beneficiaries of the actuarial approach to history-based scores.

There is a grim irony in the fact that the group whose experience in America is characterized by a unique and acute vulnerability will now be depicted exclusively in terms of the risk they present to others.

In this scoring, defendants are all past, no future; the only relevant aspect of their pasts implicates decisions (Arrest? Convict?) made about the defendants by the criminal system itself.

Meanwhile, the history-based scoring eliminates any need to take account of the iatrogenic injuries (loss of job, loss of children, disrupted treatment, loss of housing) that detention will inflict.

And since it considers only “static” historical factors, and not “dynamic” factors (such as treatment possibilities or employment counseling), the scoring also releases the system’s architects and operators from any need to consider their own problematic failures in risk reduction practice.

Besides—unlike a drug treatment program, or mental health counseling—PSA is free. The temptation for a local system under pressure to hope (or pretend) that it is a silver bullet that resolves all pretrial problems is substantial.

In the end, you are left with the mock-learned taxonomy of subject peoples that the British developed in London and then applied in colonial India through the Criminal Tribes Act.

 The Message in the Numbers

Debating the PSA’s statistical elegance won’t quite address all of the issues.

The risk here is that we will think the work is done when we eliminate the creation of false differences (assumptions based on racial stereotypes, for example).

But there is another mistake we can make about difference: we can ignore genuine differences (in law enforcement activity, or individual family, medical, or employment histories) when they exist.

The actuarial process says to the defendant, his family, and his community, “We see you (or your son, or your neighbor) as an integer, not a person.”

In fact (since everyone involved in the bail hearing knows everyone else’s race) it says to one vulnerable group, “We see you as one of the African-American integers.”

Would they choose to be depicted that way? Has anyone asked them?

It is hard to believe this approach doesn’t eventually erode trust in the law.

A research report by the Center for Court Innovation tactfully explains why no criminal history score can escape the influence of the racial weighting of the pre-existing determinations that constitute its data pool, and suggests workarounds to mute the effect.

No one actually believes that reformers generated a pure numerical tool that is then transmitted and faithfully mobilized on the front lines. PSA is explicitly not a substitute for judges.

As Prof. Mona Lynch has shown in a February, 2019 article in the American Bar Foundation’s Law & Social Inquiry journal, instead of transforming defendants into a set of criminal history points that help determine sentence assignment from a table, the quantified criminal histories simply provide a starting point: another opening for the frontline practitioners’ development of their own “narrative of the number.”

There is no reason to be confident that (with or without a score) the race of the defendant has no impact at an arraignment. For example, experience with Kentucky judges who were asked to employ a precursor risk assessment tool showed a heightened willingness to override risk scores where moderate-risk black defendants were evaluated.

Whatever biases the scores’ stylized representations of the defendants bleed out of the process, the practitioners can put right back in. In a context where a “false negative” (the release of a Willie Horton) terrifies the judge and a “false positive” (the detention of a Kalief Browder, who would not have committed a new crime) will never be discovered, at least one gravitational pull is baked in.

Judges care about community safety; they care about their own job security too.

It is a truism that “culture eats strategy for lunch.” You should expect courthouse culture to gnaw at your algorithm.

Frontline practitioners are not a transparent medium through which the message from the researchers and policy-makers passes; they refract the message to the community, and they refract the message back from the front.

People in Systems

Recently Jeremy Travis, Arnold Ventures’ Executive Vice-president for Criminal Justice, writing in The Crime Report, called for a new lens. He argued that the reform world needs, “a more expansive research agenda [that] would be focused on people, families and communities, not systems.”

That welcome observation might call for a friendly amendment.

The question isn’t people or systems; the question is people in systems. That means we have to spend some time understanding what sort of system people are entangled in.

Travis is quite right that a linear, sequential, model of a system and the research it attracts are inadequate. The criminal system is not a Newtonian mechanism of springs, gears, and switches where every action has an inevitable reaction that can be known in advance. It can’t be fixed by optimizing an individual component. It probably can’t be permanently “fixed” at all.

But criminal justice is a system: it is a complex socio-technical system. Its operators and the people whose lives they affect are subject to swirling clouds of influences which are not “causes” with inevitable effects. These influences impact the probabilities; they do not flip a switch. They are often over-lapping and sometimes conflicting. Everyone’s work is affecting everyone else’s work, all the time.

The work that is done often has to be very different from the work that can be defined in advance. Workarounds, triage, covert work rules, and “practical drift” adjustments multiply.  Very often “workmanship”—not simply following the rules laid down in the researchers’ grid—is what matters.

A great deal can be learned from measuring outputs, but it would be good to remember that outputs cast at best an oblique light on processes.

And there is a reading of the outputs that suggests that the frontline practitioners could be treated as a resource to be mobilized, rather than an audience to be instructed.

For example, a careful study of the “holistic” defense practices of the Bronx Defenders—which, in their highly individualized approach to defendants and their issues constitute a mirror opposite of the actuarial scoring solution—showed an 8.6 percent reduction in pretrial detention. As Silicon Valley De-Bug’s Participatory Defense initiative shows, there is every reason to think that the community, if it were treated as an element of the frontline, could make an important difference too.

My argument here is not that all researchers everywhere are always ignoring the realities of frontline life. I realize that there are numerous contacts between the research and the practice communities.

And my argument here is not for ignoring the researchers’ data-derived vision of the justice system in favor of the frontliners’ narratives.

The argument is for an explicit, determined focus on recognizing that we need both lenses, and that their two approaches are in tension. We can try to make sure that inevitable tension is a productive one.

There’s a lot to be learned, but it can’t be learned (or taught) top-down. Everyone got into this situation together; together is the only way we will get out.

We should do what we can to nourish the capacity for everyone to learn from each other— and all of the time.

James M. Doyle is a Boston defense lawyer and author, and a frequent contributor to The Crime Report. He welcomes readers’ comments.

Beware the ‘Professional’ Reformer syndicated from https://immigrationattorneyto.wordpress.com/

[deadcactuswalking]

REVIEWING THE CHARTS: 30th December 2018 - its Christmas ennit

So, there are twelve Christmas songs I need to review and no new arrivals. Hence, I’m not going to take myself too seriously on this one, so be prepared for a more lighthearted, funnier and most importantly shorter episode of REVIEWING THE CHARTS right after the usual. Anyways, the chart is pretty much three quarters Christmas this week (28 holiday songs) – joy. Let’s go into what survived, what suffered and the Top 10.

Top 10

We have a new number-one – for its first week, ten weeks into its chart run, “Sweet but Psycho” by Ava Max has reached the top spot. I’m not necessarily complaining because it’s not a bad song, but it still isn’t very festive.

Now: the holidays, because as soon as I start celebrating New Years and the dawn of 2019, there’s a Christmas avalanche (unfortunately, none by the Avalanches). “All I Want for Christmas is You” by Mariah Carey is up three spots to the runner-up place. This could have gone to number-one, which is insane.

“Last Christmas” by WHAM! is up four spots to number-three.

“Fairytale of New York” by the Pogues featuring Kirsty MacColl is up seven spaces to number-four.

“thank u, next” by Ariana Grande is down two places to number-five.

“Do They Know it’s Christmas?” by Band Aid moves up seven positions to number-six. Blech.

“It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” by Michael Bublé is beginning to look a lot more popular as it slides past nine positions all the way up to number-seven.

“One More Sleep” by Leona Lewis proves itself surprisingly well, up eleven spots to number-eight.

Shakin’ Stevens has an identical boost as “Merry Christmas Everyone” travels up to number-nine.

Finally rounding off our top 10, at #10 we have “Step into Christmas” by Elton John, up eight spaces from last week.

Christmas Nonsense

“Driving Home for Christmas” by Chris Rea is up 11 to #11, “I Wish it Could be Christmas Everyday” by Wizzard is up 12 to #12, and just to ruin our streak is “Santa Tell Me” by Ariana Grande, moving up ten spaces to #13, “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee is up five to #16, “Merry Xmas Everybody” by Slade is up 19 to #17, “Happy Xmas (War is Over)” by John Lennon, Yoko Ono and the Plastic Ono Band featuring the Harlem Community Choir is up 11 to #18, “Wonderful Christmastime” by Paul McCartney is up 15 to #20, “We Built This City on Sausage Rolls” (yes, this is a Christmas song) by LadBaby is DOWN 20 spaces from its top-spot debut last week, now at #21 – and that’s it.

What Survived

Really not that much. Outside of the top 10, “Without Me” by Halsey is down nine to #14, “Nothing Breaks Like a Heart” by Mark Ronson and Miley Cyrus is down nine to #15, “Sunflower” from Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse by Post Malone and Swae Lee is down nine to #19, “Rewrite the Stars” by James Arthur and Anne-Marie is down 13 to #25, “Baby Shark” by Pinkfong is somehow UP three spaces to #27, “Lost Without You” by Freya Ridings is down 18 to #32, “Shotgun” by George Ezra is up four to #33, “ZEZE” by Kodak Black featuring Travis Scott and Offset is down 19 to #34 (this is the only rap song on the chart this week, which is crazy considering how big that genre was this year), “Ruin My Life” by Zara Larsson is down 18 to #35, and “Thursday” by Jess Glynne is down a whopping 31 spaces to #40. Now, in the first 600 words or so of this episode, I have name-dropped every single song on the chart right now that is not in any way related to Christmas or the holidays, adding up to a total of about twelve. Why are there so little then? Well, first of all...

What Suffered

Let’s start with songs that aren’t in the top 75 at all. “KIKA” by 6ix9ine featuring Tory Lanez is out from #34 and “when the party’s over” by Billie Eilish is out from #39. These weren’t going to live long anyway. Now, these next songs are ordered by where they are on the top 100 as of this week. “Imagine” by Ariana Grande is out from #8, “A Million Dreams” by P!nk is out from #27, “Baby” by Clean Bandit featuring Luis Fonsi and Marina is out from #25, “Hold My Girl” by George Ezra is out from #32, “Close to Me” by Ellie Goulding, Diplo and Swae Lee is out from #28, “Going Bad” by Meek Mill and Drake is out from #26, “Better” by Khalid is out from #33, “Empty Space” by James Arthur is out from #31 – good!, “Advice” by Cadet and Deno Driz is out from #38 and finally, “Let You Love Me” by Rita Ora is out from #40. Jesus. Now, returning entries.

Returning Entries

#39 – “Baby it’s Cold Outside” – Idina Menzel and Michael Bublé

Written in 1944, the dated lyrics that are perceived as rapey and manipulative have caught some flack in recent years – of course, what do you expect? It’s from 1944, you should be grateful it doesn’t have a reference to minstrel shows. Although the lack of adjustment of the lyrics in recent covers like this one has been concerning because people become more aware, and who else than Adele Dazeem and the definition of non-descript to cover this charming yet problematic classic? I’m kidding, of course, because these two personality vacuums make me sick to my stomach with their dull-as-bricks cover of an already lethargic traditional. Somehow at two minutes and 36 seconds, it’s too long, especially with its static production. I’d like to say mixing is slightly odd too, but that’s probably on purpose, although the skits in between verses are pretty cringeworthy. Next.

#38 – “Lonely this Christmas” – Mud

Speaking of lethargic and boring, how about the exhausting song by Mud? It starts with the a-capella “bom-bom-bom-bom” and I feel that symbolises your life flashing past your eyes right before your slow, gruelling death with surf-rock guitars and the lead singer sounding like he has a gum shield in his mouth but was forced to stand in for Lionel Richie at a Christmas charity event. I’m calling it now – this type of lazy, awfully dreary music is the reason all of our substance-less emo-rap and lo-fi nonsense exists now, and if less Mud means less Juice WRLD and joji, I’m all for removing this song out of the British Xmas music canon. Go away, and take your annoying spoken word sections with you. Next.

#37 – “Underneath the Tree” – Kelly Clarkson

Hey, something that doesn’t suck as much as an alcoholic toddler hidden within fields of cattle. Although this still has barely any build-up so the climax (which is about three seconds in, may I add) feels immensely worthless. Kelly sounds great, as usual, but the instrumentation is quite cluttered when the chorus comes in, meaning like all new Christmas pop songs, it has that overproduced vibe, which is a vibe nobody except Kanye can really work well with. I’m all for maximalist production but once you add a sax solo to about 40 layers of plastic tangentially festive loops, you lose me. The hook is an earworm and a half. Next.

#36 – “Stay Another Day” – East 17

This isn’t a Christmas song. It was number-one at Christmas, and it had snow in the video, but that doesn’t mean it’s a Christmas song. Hence, I refuse to review it. It’s pretty rubbish generic boy-band schlock, anyway, and it’s really bottom-of-the-barrel tier of that genre, so no losses here!

#31 – “White Christmas” – Bing Crosby

This is an absolute classic, with elegant, beautiful strings and some of the sweetest vocals I’ve ever heard laid down from the 50s and 60s crooners of their day. The lyrics are as well-written as Christmas songs really got back then, and for the time, this probably sounded good on records. It sounds pretty awful on streaming, actually, there’s a few vocal clippings that are oddly frequent. Seriously, we need a remastered version of this that isn’t by Michael Bublé. When’s the last time we got a white Christmas anyway? Even Crosby had to wish for it 60 years ago, we basically have to pray the whole 12 months. Next.

#30 – “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” – Jackson 5

Kids shouldn’t be singing, okay? None of them are all that good at it especially when it’s a professional, label-backed recording. Michael Jackson has always sounded pretty awful as a kid, both in and out the Jackson 5, to me at least, in my opinion, and it’s no different here, although I’ll admit he sounds okay in his best moments throughout, and the production has some actual funk and groove behind it, so I’ll always appreciate that (although I definitely do appreciate the painful infant Michael Jackson ad-libs). When I typed in “Santa Claus” into Spotify, the first thing to show up was “I’m Gonna Kill Santa Claus”, so that should tell you how I feel about this type of sickly Christmas music in general. Nnnnnnnnnnnnnnnnext.

#29 – “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” – Andy Williams

It really isn’t, but as much as I disagree with the politics here, the song’s pretty cool. This is actually remastered so I can appreciate every tidbit, from the bass in Andy Williams’ gorgeous voice, the cute lyrics, the beautiful orchestral instrumentation  and the unintentionally lo-fi backing vocals that kind of work as a lower quality in comparison to the rest of the mix because it sounds like a public recording of a chanted vocal in a pub or village or something, like gang vocals in DJ Mustard beats. Why are there ghost stories, though? Was Jack Skellington involved in the making of the song? Either way, this song’s pretty NEXT!

#28 – “Mistletoe”- Justin Bieber

Just because it’s a song that briefly and vaguely references Christmas whilst really being a song about picking up a girl doesn’t mean it’s a Christmas song. I mean, that would imply Lil Wayne’s song about having sex with every girl in the world is a Christmas song, and that’s just wrong.

These hoes is God’s gift like Christmas

Next!

#26 – “Mary’s Boy Child / Oh My Lord” – Boney M.

The women are great but listen, the dude in Boney M. can’t sing, at all, and personally, I don’t like my Christmas songs to be too overly religious. This literally re-tells the birth of Jesus, and for what it’s worth, it’s a decent gospel-disco track although I know a whole album that makes a better combination of urban contemporary music and gospel, in fact, I know two, from the same year and the same people... but seriously that dude’s voice is hilariously pathetic, and his part is just unforgivably horrible and out-of-place. Who told him this was okay? This was the sex icon, I’m pretty sure, of the group, because he was Daddy Cool and all that, but if a man walked up to me with that voice, I’d think he was a child initially and then eventually run away. He scares me with how Godawful (no pun intended) his performance here is... but it’s okay as a whole, I guess. Next.

#24 – “Santa’s Coming for Us” – Sia

Sia tries to do reggae-fusion Christmas and it hurts my ears. This is the only time where Sia’s diction really bothers me because she’s just indecipherable here, and she has nothing to cover her initially except synth noise until the cliché, plastic Christmas beat comes in. Admittedly I like the horns here, but that goes for a lot of these tracks. Sia’s chorus where she just repeats the title until she absolutely mangles the word to the point where it means nothing disgusts me with his repulsing beauty. It’s almost unlistenable, and I’m pretty sure the fake Caribbean inflection deserves this white Australian woman some flack. No? You guys still going to fight the dude in the 1940s who made a song that portrayed gender roles considered more standard at the time, and not the woman who fakes an accent for a worthless Christmas cash-in? Aight then, next.

#23 – “Cozy Little Christmas” – Katy Perry

If you don’t put your music on Spotify and are a big name who is absolutely able to, you are pretentious, irrational and uptight. This song only exists as a single because it was released on Amazon. That’s baffling to me. Next.

#22 – “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home)” – Darlene Love

Was this in Home Alone? It seems oddly familiar to a song that was definitely in that soundtrack. I don’t know, but this song rocks. The song is oddly desperate despite how it may sound, and I can really dig her longing for days that she had a “true” Christmas because of how she spent it all with her significant other. It’s sweet. Phil Spector’s jolly production shines again with the steady beat (needs a remastered version ASAP) and Darlene Love perfectly riding the instrumental as if she was Santa on his sleigh. Thank you, next.

Conclusion

Oh, wait, that’s all? Thank the Lords. Mud get Worst of the Week for “Lonely this Christmas”, with Dishonourable Mention going to Katy Perry, East 17 and Justin Bieber for all of their worthless cash-ins that I didn’t even bother doing any form of substantial reviews for. Best of the Week goes to Andy Williams, to be honest, for “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year”, with Honourable Mention going to no-one. Happy Easter.