#Northwest Missouri State

[athleticperfection1]

Northwest Missouri State Cheer

#Northwest Missouri State University #Northwest Missouri State Bearcats #cheer #cheerleader #college cheerleader #college girl #d2 cheerleaders

[sikface-realaz99]

#youtube #spotify #washington state #new album #itunes #rapper #explore #explore page #tech n9ne #kansas #oklahoma #missouri #midwest #pacific northwest

[rebeccathenaturalist]

Here in the Pacific Northwest, the iconic fish that we most commonly associate with the ecological devastation of dams is the salmon. However, sturgeons also face extinction due in part to these massive structures that not only change the flow and temperature of rivers, but can cut fish off from their breeding grounds. That includes in my home state of Missouri.

Sturgeons are really incredible animals. Their unique lineage split off from the rest of the fish during the early Jurassic, 175 to 200 million years ago. Sturgeons themselves can be comparatively ancient, with some individuals living 150 years. They may not breed until they are at least 25 years old.

Lake sturgeons (Acipenser fulvescens) are one of many species driven close to extinction by overfishing for meat and roe, as well as habitat loss and pollution. For the past three decades biologists have been reintroducing this species to parts of its historic range in Missouri, and for the third time since conservation efforts began they have witnessed these fish--now grown up--spawning. Previous observations were made in 2015 and 2022, meaning the recovery is still quite recent.

But it's proof positive that restoring habitat, once again, is one of the best ways we can help wildlife. Long may the sturgeon swim!

#fish #sturgeon #wildlife #nature #animals #habitat restoration #endangered species #extinction #conservation #environment #environmentalism #ecology #restoration ecology #good news #hopepunk #Missouri #science #scicomm #science communication #fishing

[morbidology]

22-year-old Teresa Sue Hilt was a petite, blonde-haired music student at Northwest Missouri State University. On the 4th of August, 1973, she was brutally murdered in her Maryville apartment. She had been stabbed several times and then strangled to death with a pair of her own nylon stockings.

The autopsy concluded that Teresa had been killed some time between 2AM and the daylight hours. She was last seen at the apartment of a young man - Edward Happel - who lived in the same complex, College Gardens, which was just a block or so from the university. Police said that Teresa and Happel had been out socially the night before and returned to his apartment with two other men. Before she left, Teresa and Happel arranged to meet the following day when he got off work. However, detectives announced that he was only a witness and not a suspect in the murder.

At around 4PM on the 4th of August, Happel tried calling Teresa to inform her that he had finished his shift so they could hang out. When he received no reply, he went to her apartment. The door was slightly ajar so he let himself in. It was here that he discovered the lifeless body of Teresa lying on her bed. Her body appeared to have been posed. Her left arm lay straight at her side, her right arm was bent at the elbow and resting on her back. A 4-inch paring knife stained with blood was found in her hand; no fingerprints were found on the knife. Ligature marks were found on Teresa's wrists indicating she had been bound.

Teresa had been stabbed on the chest, arm and lower part of the body. There was a possible bite mark on her breast. “The chest wound had one entry with multiple, eight different jabs, like they never pulled the knife completely out and just re-stuck it up to eight times,” said an officer.

Her wallet would later be found near railroad tracks just south of her apartment leading police to question whether the killer hopped on a freight train after the murder. Hair samples found near the bed came from somebody suffering from monilethrix, a disease that makes the scalp brittle and causes hair to easily fall out. It was determined the hair came from somebody between 20 and 40 years old. Despite the fact that it was a brutal and frenzied murder - Teresa had numerous bruises - none of her neighbours heard a thing.

When Keith Wood took over as police official in Maryville 16 years later, he found that the physical evidence from the crime scene was missing: bedsheets, the murder weapon, hair samples, and DNA.

The murder of Teresa Sue Hilt still remains unsolved.

#Teresa Sue Hilt #true crime #unsolved #cold case #mystery

[frida-kahl-of-the-rocky-horror]

I saw this back when I used to use Reddit (for animal crossing and trans+ stuff mostly), and I felt so honoured that they used my Florida flag redesign in this that I screenshotted it. But when I looked to find the original poster, they had deleted the post (likely because of negative replies, vexillology Reddit is scary).

They recreated the state flags to be more about symbolism and individuality rather than about aesthetics (which is the problem I see with a lot of over simplified state flags). All while keeping the flags that actually carry deep meaning and are beloved by the residents.

I’m not the biggest fan of Nebraska’s, Virginia’s, and Wisconsin’s, but all the others are wonderful (especially Florida’s… I will not apologize for being biased lol)

The original Reddit person’s caption:

“I kept some flags which I believe are currently great. Most of them are all over State merchandise, and people of these states carry a lot of state pride for these flags. They are:

1. Alabama

2. Alaska

3. Arizona

4. Arkansas

5. California

6. Colorado

7. lowa

8. Maryland

9. Mississippi

10. Missouri

11. New Mexico

12. Ohio, my home state! [not mine, OPs]

13. Rhode Island

14. South Carolina

15. Tennessee

16. Texas

17. Utah

18. Wyoming

19. District of Columbia [I believe you mean the Douglass Commonwealth]

20. Guam

21. The Northern Mariana Islands

22. Puerto Rico

I've switched some State’s boring Seal on a Bedsheet flags into their more popular historical ones. They are:

23. Conecticut ~ New England Flag

24. Hawaii ~ Kanaka Maoli

25. Maine ~ Original State Flag

26. Vermont ~ Green Mountain Boys Flag

27. Virginia ~ Gadsden Flag

28. West Virginia ~ Original State Flag

I've made a few tweaks to some existing flags so they look more unique / are more easily recognizable. They are:

29. Indiana ~ Golden Frame

30. New Jersey ~ Added Stripes

31. North Carolina ~ Un-Tex-ified

32. Oklahoma ~ Added Stripes

33. American Samoa ~ Added Southern Cross

I designed some using the Pan Cascade colours for the Pacific Northwest (BC will have the tree one). They are:

34. Idaho

35. Oregon

36. Washington

I borrowed some other designs which I found on here which I found beautiful. I mostly looked for flags which were designed by locals from the states that they are redesigning or included state symbols on their old flags. They are:

37. Florida [omg they chose mine!!!]

38. Georgia

39. Kansas

40. Kentucky

41. Louisiana

42. Michigan

43. Montana

44. Nevada

45. New Hampshire

46. New York

47. North Dakota [I prefer my communist flag better wajajaja]

48. Pennsylvania

49. South Dakota

50. Wisconsin

51. Virgin Islands

I left the flags currently in the process of a redesign blank, for, given the recent track record, any new flags are probably going to look amazing like Utah’s and Mississippi’s. They are:

52. Illinois [this is your reminder to vote for your new state flag if you’re from this state!!!]

53. Massachusetts [this is your reminder to vote for your new state flag if you’re from this state!!!]

54. Minnesota [this is your reminder to vote for your new state flag if you’re from this state!!!]

I kept one Seal on a Bedsheet flag to honour this horrid time in American vexillological history. That is:

55. Delaware

And lastly

56. Nebraska (idk)”

While I agree with most of the OP’s opinions, I think Nebraska’s flag would look better if it looked something like this:

Better designed of course, I made this on Pic Collage in like 5 minutes

Im not sure about Wisconsin and Virginia, I just know I’m not the biggest fan of either (since Virginia’s flag has a separate meaning and Wisconsin’s is just bland.

Let me know what you think!

And if you’re the OP of this, please let me know, I like your choices!!

#usa #united states #state flags #alabama #alaska #arizona #arkansas #california #colorado #conecticut #delaware #florida #georgia #hawaii #idaho #illinois #indiana #iowa #kansas #kentucky #lousiana #maine #maryland #massachusetts #michigan #minnesota #mississippi #missouri #montana #nebraska

[3rdeyeblaque]

On June 7th, we venerate Elevated Ancestor Mother Julia Greeley on the 105th anniversary of her passing 🕊

Affectionately known as Denver’s Angel of Charity, Mother Julia is a Servant of God & is the Patron of Black Catholics, Firefighters, Children, & the Poor/Homeless.

Mother Julia was born enslaved in Hannibal, Missouri sometime between 1833 -1848. She endured hellish treatment, even as a young child beneath her mother's skirts. During one fateful event, in particular, she was stricken by the whip that the slave master used while beating her mother; permanently damaging her right eye. Decades passed before she became among the first "freeman" in the state following the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863. A young woman now, Mother Julia subsequently earned her living by serving White families throughout Missouri, Colorado, Wyoming and New Mexico —though primarily in the Denver area. It was her work with the family of Colorado’s first territorial governor that brought her to Denver in 1878.

Two years later, she worked odd jobs around the city until she came upon the steps of the Sacred Heart Parish of Denver, where she was conditionally baptized into the Catholic Church - since she hadn't known if she'd ever been baptized before. She became an enthusiastic parishioner, a daily communicant, & became an active member of the Secular Franciscan Order in 1901. The Jesuit priests at her parish recognized her as the most fervent promoter of devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus that they'd ever witnessed.

She was often seen wearing a floppy hat, oversized shoes, & dabbing her injured right eye with a handkerchief while pulling her red wagon of goods to deliver to the poor & homeless of the city. She'd often do this at night, knowing that some of the poor White families would be embarrassed to be seen receiving charity from her, a Black woman. Whatever she did not need for herself, she gave to the poor. When she had nothing more to give, she begged for food, supplies, & clothing for the needy.

She had a particular devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and would deliver pictures & pamphlets depicting it each month to firefighters throughout the city of Denver. As a daily communicant, Mother Julia also had a rich devotion to the Blessed Sacrament and the Blessed Virgin. She'd recite prayers even while working outside of the parish. She did so until the day of her death. Mother Julia died on June 7, 1918 — ironically on the day of the Feast of the Sacred Heart, around 80 years old.

After which, her body lay in state for 5hrs in a funeral that drew hundreds throughout the city to pay their respects to the woman who fed, clothed, & suported them in the dark for years on end.

Mother Julia was buried in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. The Catholic Church finally granted the request from many for her to be considered for canonizatio in 2016.

As part of the Cause for Canonization, her body was transferred to Denver’s Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in 2017. Her remains were placed in a funerary box made of exotic red heart wood near the altar of the Sacred Heart in the northwest corner of the sanctuary, which will later be encapsulated in a sarcophagus made of Caralla marble (the same stone used by Michaelangelo in his statues). She is one of 6 Afrikan descendants in the U.S. to have open canonization causes with the Catholic Church. Currently, she remains a Servant of God.

In 2012, Catholic Priest, Father Blain Burkey authored a book entitled, “In Secret Service of the Sacred Heart: The Life and Virtues of Julia Greeley,” which later was adapted as a documentary film.

" My communion is my breakfast " - Mother Julia to the priests of her parish.

We pour libations & give her 💐 today as we celebrate her for her service to the city of Denver & for her patronage of all Black Catholics, firefighters, children & the homeless communities whom she served.

Offering suggestions: red wine, bread, catholic Bible, the Sacred Heart of Jesus, parish of denver badge, & little red wagons.

#mother julia greeley #servant of God #black catholic #ancestor veneration #elevated ancestors #Hoodoo #hudu #the hoodoo calendar

[chaosintheavenue]

Fallout OC Census Maps

The survey data is continuing to provide me with enrichment, so here’s some more graphics to illustrate the results! This time, I compared the places of origin (within the United States) of characters from the different games in the series.

Original Fallout:

California: 14

-

Fallout 2:

Oregon: 8 California: 3 Nevada: 1 Washington: 1

-

Fallout 3:

DC: 53 Massachusetts: 1 Minnesota: 1 Pennsylvania: 1 Texas: 1 Washington: 1

Note 1: As usual, I chose to take the Washington state answer at face value. I know it's more likely that the person meant DC, but I have in fact seen a Lone Wanderer from the Pacific Northwest in a previous survey, so it's not impossible!

Note 2: I was originally a little confused to see no Maryland or Virginia here, but that's because I lumped all 'Capital Wasteland' answers into DC. So, maybe take that category to mean the in-game Capital Wasteland region, rather than DC proper

-

Fallout New Vegas:

California: 54 Nevada: 49 Arizona: 26 Texas: 7 Utah: 7 Oregon: 6 Idaho: 4 New Mexico: 4 Colorado: 2 DC: 2 Massachusetts: 2 Georgia: 1 West Virginia: 1 Connecticut: 1 Illinois: 1 Minnesota: 1 Montana: 1 Kansas: 1

-

Fallout 4:

Massachusetts: 100 Maine: 10 Texas: 7 California: 5 Pennsylvania: 4 DC: 3 New York: 3 Montana: 3 Florida: 2 Maryland: 2 Illinois: 2 West Virginia: 2 Vermont: 2 Tennessee: 2 New Hampshire: 2 Alabama: 1 South Carolina: 1 Oregon: 1 New Jersey: 1 Nebraska: 1 Louisiana: 1 Arkansas: 1 Virginia: 1 Washington: 1 Michigan: 1 Connecticut: 1 Wisconsin: 1

-

Fallout 76:

West Virginia: 20 Maryland: 1 Oklahoma: 1 Massachusetts: 1 Connecticut: 1 California: 1 Colorado: 1

*points at Colorado and California* MY GIRLS!

-

Fallout Tactics:

Illinois: 1 Massachusetts: 1

-

Fallout BoS:

Texas: 1

-

Van Buren:

Utah: 7 California: 6 Colorado: 2 Missouri: 1 West Virginia: 1

Full disclosure: I, Chaos, wrecked this map by adding in a random selection of very minor VB OCs of my own

#fallout #survey #here we go again lol #oh by the way #for ocs that move around during their story I used the chronologically first location given

[licenseplateshowdown]

Round 1 Results

exciting stuff in our regional quarterfinals! all 64 license plates of the united states and canada going head to head. some races were landslides, some were neck and neck. in the end, 32 plates go on to the regional semifinals, and 32 stay behind, crying in the dust. the winners are:

Pacific Region: Yukon over Alaska; Washington over British Columbia; Nevada over Oregon; Hawaii over California

South Coast Region: Virginia over Washington DC; South Carolina over North Carolina; Georgia over Florida; Alabama over Mississippi

Prairie–Tundra Region: Nunavut over Northwest Territories; Manitoba over Saskatchewan; North Dakota over South Dakota; Kansas over Nebraska

Maritime Region: Quebec over Newfoundland and Labrador; Nova Scotia over Prince Edward Island; Maine over New Brunswick; New Hampshire over Vermont

Mountain Region: Alberta over Montana; Wyoming over Idaho; Colorado over Utah; Arizona over New Mexico

Outer South Region: Oklahoma over Texas; Louisiana over Arkansas; Missouri over Tennessee; West Virginia over Kentucky

Great Lakes Region: Michigan over Ontario; Minnesota over Iowa; Wisconsin over Illinois; Ohio over Indiana

Mid-Atlantic Region: Rhode Island over Massachusetts; New York over Connecticut; Pennsylvania over New Jersey; Maryland over Delaware

for those who may be curious, the closest race was colorado vs utah, with a final vote of 51.3% to 48.7%

the biggest landslide was maine vs new brunswick, with a final vote of 91.2% to just 8.8%

our regional semifinals are coming up. voting starts tomorrow at 8am PST!

#license plates #tournament #round 1

[mapsontheweb]

U.S. Flow Conditions: August 2022

by u/houndrunner

A tile map of the US with proportional area charts for each state showing the proportion of streamgages by flow levels, categorized using percentile bins. Streamflow level percentiles are calculated using the historic daily record for each gage, and binned to reflect whether flow conditions are wetter or drier than the historical record. For the month of August, the Northeast states faced very dry conditions. The Northwest states also faced dry conditions, along with much of the Midwest. Arizona and New Mexico, along with Louisiana and Missouri, faced flood levels during this month.

The tile map was made in R (see code) using ggplot2 and the geofacet packages. Data are from the USGS National Water Information System, accessed in R using dataRetrieval. See it on twitter

#maps #houndrunner #streamgages #rivers #us

[ask-the-usa-manor]

*Pops out of nowhere*

WHATS THE AGE ORDER OF ALL THE STATES + TERRITORIES OLDEST TO YOUNGEST

*vanishes*

(About time I updated this list! I’ll add their ages as of writing this, too!)

Age/Birthday HCs!

For America, the states, the territories, and DC! Heck, I’ll even throw in some dead/retired peeps.

United States of America: Born in 1585, the year Roanoke was founded. Uses July 4th since the actual day he was born is unknown. Used November 11th before 1776. Used random days before 1620. 437 years old!

Virginia: May 18th, 1607, when the Colony of Virginia was settled. 415 years old!

Popham Colony: August 16th, 1607. She passed sometime in 1608.

New Hampshire: 1629, when the territory between the Merrimack and Piscataqua rivers was named after Hampshire. Unknown day, uses June 21st. 393 years old!

Massachusetts: Born in 1630, when the Massachusetts Bay Colony was formed. Unknown day, uses May 14th. 392 years old!

Maryland: Some time in 1632, when the Province of Maryland was created. Uses April 28th. 390 years old!

Saybrook Colony: Born some day in 1635, aged 12 years.

Connecticut: March 3rd, 1636, when he was organized as a settlement for a Puritan congregation. 386 years old!

Rhode Island: A day in 1636, when the Colony of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations was founded. Unknown day, uses May 29th. 386 years old!

New Haven Colony: Born April 14th, 1638. The colony diminished in 1664. Thanks, Connecticut.

North Carolina: Born on the day the Province of Carolina was formed; March 24th, 1663. Twins with South Carolina, 359 years old!

South Carolina: Born on the day the Province of Carolina was formed; March 24th, 1663. Twins with North Carolina, 359 years old!

Delaware: Born in 1664, the year the Delaware Colony was established. I couldn’t find an exact day anywhere, so he probably uses December 7th, the day he became a state. 358 years old!

New Jersey: Born in 1664, when the Province of New Jersey was formed. Unknown day, uses December 18th. 358 years old! Twins with West Jersey!

West Jersey: Born in 1664, when the Province of New Jersey was formed. Lived to 28. Was twins with New Jersey!

New York: Yet again, also born in 1664, when the Province of New York was created. Unknown day, uses July 26th. 358 years old!

Guam: June 15th, 1668; when the Spanish commenced colonization. Man, this guy’s got stories. 354 years old!

Pennsylvania: Born in 1681, the year Province of Pennsylvania (AKA Pennsylvania Colony) was formed! Yet again, unknown day, uses December 12th. 341 years old!

Georgia: April 21st, 1732, when the Province of Georgia was established. 290 years old!

Florida: February 10th, 1763. When East Florida was summoned into this world by a ominous ritual— Er, created. Definitely meant created. 259 years old!

Vermont: January 15th, 1777, when the Vermont Republic was founded. 244 years old!

Ohio: Unknown day in 1787, when the Northwest Territory (formerly known as Territory Northwest of the River Ohio) was established. Uses March 1st. 235 years old!

Tennessee: May 26th, 1790, when the Territory South of the River Ohio was created. 232 years old!

Washington, DC: July 16th (Hey, we’re birthday twinsies! :D), 1790, when DC was founded. 232 years old!

Kentucky: June 1st, 1792. Statehood, one of the few to actually be born a state. 230 years old!

Mississippi: April 7th, 1798, when the Territory of Mississippi was established. 224 years old!

Alaska: Born on July 8th, 1799 as Russian America. 223 years old!

Indiana: July 4th, 1800, when the Indiana Territory was established. 222 years old!

Louisiana: Born in 1801 on an unknown day, when French Louisiana (AKA New France) was created. Again. The first one sort of died, but that’s a story for another day. Uses July 4th, the day the Louisiana Purchase was established. 221 years old!

Michigan: June 30th, 1805, when the Michigan Territory was established. 217 years old!

Illinois: March 1st, 1809. The day Illinois Territory was established. 213 years old!

Missouri: June 4th, 1812, the day when the Missouri Territory was established. 210 years old!

Alabama: December 10th, 1817, when the Alabama Territory was established. 205 years old!

Arkansas: July 4th, 1819, when the Arkansas Territory established. 203 years old!

Maine: March 15th, 1820. Statehood, another one of the few to be born a state. 202 years old!

Texas: May 7th, 1824. When Coahuila y Tejas, was established. 198 years old!

Oklahoma: June 30th, 1834, when Indian Territory was formed by the Indian Intercourse Act. 188 years old!

Wisconsin: July 3rd, 1836, the day the Wisconsin Territory was established. 186 years old!

Iowa: He was born on July 4th, 1838, when the Iowa Territory was established. 184 years old!

California: June 14th, 1846. When the short-lived California Republic was created. 176 years old!

Oregon: August 14th, 1848, the day the Oregon Territory was established. 174 years old!

Minnesota: March 3rd, 1849. When the Minnesota Territory was established. 173 years old!

Utah: Unknown day in 1849. The date the State of Deseret was made. Uses September 9th, the day the Utah Territory was established! 173 years old!

New Mexico: September 9th, 1850. The day New Mexico Territory was established. 172 years old!

Washington: March 2nd, 1853, the establishment of the Washington Territory. 169 years old!

Kansas: March 2nd, 1853, the establishment of the Washington Territory. 169 years old!

Nebraska: May 30th, 1854, the establishment of the Nebraska Territory. Twins with Kansas. 168 years old!

Colorado: February 28th, 1861, the establishment of the Colorado Territory. 161 years old!

Nevada: March 2nd, 1861, the establishment of the Nevada Territory. 161 years old! Despite being born on the same day as the Dakotas, they aren’t… triplets… at all… *Squints at America*

North Dakota: March 2nd, 1861, the establishment of the Dakota Territory. Twins with South Dakota, swears she’s older than him. 161 years old!

South Dakota: March 2nd, 1861, the establishment of the Dakota Territory. Twins with North Dakota, swears he’s older than her. 161 years old!

Arizona: August 1st, 1861, the day Arizona Territory was established. 161 years old!

Idaho: March 3rd, 1863, the establishment of the Idaho Territory. 159 years old!

West Virginia: June 20th, 1863. Yet another one of the few who were born as states. 159 years old!

Montana: May 26th, 1864, establishment of the Montana Territory. 158 years old!

Wyoming: July 25th, 1868, establishment of the Wyoming Territory. 154 years old!

Hawaii: January 6th, 1873. 149 years old!

Puerto Rico: December 10th, 1898. The day the Treaty of Paris (1898) was signed. 124 years old!

Northern Mariana Islands: February 12th, 1899; When the German–Spanish Treaty (1899) was signed! 123 years old!

American Samoa: February 16th, 1900! When the Tripartite Convention became effective! 122 years old!

Panama Canal Zone: Born November 18th, 1903. Retired October 1st, 1979. She’s still alive, she just doesn’t want to deal with it. 119 years old!

US Virgin Islands: August 4th, 1916; 107 years old! Born the day the Treaty of the Danish West Indies was signed.

#Screw Quebec #HC lists #USAManor! America #USAManor! Virginia #USAManor! Popham Colony #USAManor! New Hampshire #USAManor! Massachusetts #USAManor! US Virgin Islands #USAManor! Panama Canal Zone #USAManor! American Samoa #USAManor! Northern Mariana Islands #USAManor! Puerto Rico #USAManor! Hawaii #USAManor! Wyoming #USAManor! Montana #USAManor! West Virginia #USAManor! Idaho #USAManor! Arizona #USAManor! South Dakota #USAManor! North Dakota #USAManor! Nevada #USAManor! Colorado #USAManor! Nebraska #USAManor! Kansas #USAManor! Washington #USAManor! New Mexico #USAManor! Utah #USAManor! Minnesota #USAManor! Iowa #USAManor! California

[theworstfoundingfathers]

Who is the worst founding father? Round 4: George Washington vs James Monroe

George Washington (February 22, 1732 – December 14, 1799) was an American military officer, statesman, and Founding Father who served as the first president of the United States from 1789 to 1797. Appointed by the Continental Congress, Washington led Patriot forces to victory in the American Revolutionary War and served as president of the Constitutional Convention of 1787. Washington has been called the “Father of his Country” for his manifold leadership in the nation’s founding.

Washington was a slave owner who owned a cumulative total of over 577 slaves during his lifetime who were forced to work on his farms and wherever he lived, including the President’s House in Philadelphia. As president, he signed laws passed by Congress that both protected and curtailed slavery. His will stated that one of his slaves, William Lee, should be freed upon his death and that the other 123 slaves should be freed on his wife’s death, though she freed them earlier during her lifetime.

Some accounts report that Washington opposed flogging but at times sanctioned its use, generally as a last resort, on both men and women slaves. Washington used both reward and punishment to encourage discipline and productivity in his slaves. He tried appealing to an individual’s sense of pride, gave better blankets and clothing to the “most deserving”, and motivated his slaves with cash rewards. He believed “watchfulness and admonition” to be often better deterrents against transgressions but would punish those who “will not do their duty by fair means”. Punishment ranged in severity from demotion back to fieldwork, through whipping and beatings, to permanent separation from friends and family by sale.

Washington endeavored to assimilate Native Americans into the Anglo-American culture. He also waged military campaigns against Native American nations during the Revolutionary War and the Northwest Indian War.

His closest advisors formed two factions, portending the First Party System. Secretary of the Treasury Alexander Hamilton formed the Federalist Party to promote national credit and a financially powerful nation. Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson opposed Hamilton’s agenda and founded the Jeffersonian Republicans. Washington favored Hamilton’s agenda, however, and it ultimately went into effect—resulting in bitter controversy.

In response to antislavery petitions that were presented in 1790, slaveholders objected and threatened to “blow the trumpet of civil war”. Washington and Congress responded with a series of racist measures: naturalized citizenship was denied to black immigrants; blacks were barred from serving in state militias; the Southwest Territory that would soon become the state of Tennessee was permitted to maintain slavery; and two more slave states were admitted. Washington signed into law the Fugitive Slave Act, which overrode state laws and courts, allowing agents to cross state lines to capture and return escaped slaves. Many free blacks in the north decried the law believing it would allow bounty hunting and the kidnappings of blacks.

---

James Monroe (April 28, 1758 – July 4, 1831) was an American statesman, lawyer, and diplomat who served as the fifth president of the United States from 1817 to 1825. He is perhaps best known for issuing the Monroe Doctrine, a policy of opposing European colonialism in the Americas while effectively asserting U.S. dominance, empire, and hegemony in the hemisphere. He also served as governor of Virginia, a member of the United States Senate, U.S. ambassador to France and Britain, the seventh Secretary of State, and the eighth Secretary of War.

As president, Monroe signed the Missouri Compromise, which admitted Missouri as a slave state and banned slavery from territories north of the 36°30′ parallel. 

Monroe sold his small Virginia plantation in 1783 to enter law and politics. He owned multiple properties over the course of his lifetime, but his plantations were never profitable. Although he owned much more land and many more slaves, and speculated in property, he was rarely on site to oversee the operations. Overseers treated the slaves harshly to force production, but the plantations barely broke even. Monroe incurred debts by his lavish and expensive lifestyle and often sold property (including slaves) to pay them off. 

Two years into his presidency, Monroe faced an economic crisis known as the Panic of 1819, the first major depression to hit the country since the ratification of the Constitution. The severity of the economic downturn in the U.S. was compounded by excessive speculation in public lands, fueled by the unrestrained issue of paper money from banks and business concerns.

Before the onset of the Panic of 1819, business leaders had called on Congress to increase tariff rates to address the negative balance of trade and help struggling industries. Monroe declined to call a special session of Congress to address the economy. When Congress finally reconvened in December 1819, Monroe requested an increase in the tariff but declined to recommend specific rates. Congress would not raise tariff rates until the passage of the Tariff of 1824. The panic resulted in high unemployment and an increase in bankruptcies and foreclosures, and provoked popular resentment against banking and business enterprises.

The collapse of the Federalists left Monroe with no organized opposition at the end of his first term, and he ran for reelection unopposed. A single elector from New Hampshire, William Plumer, cast a vote for John Quincy Adams, preventing a unanimous vote in the Electoral College. He did so because he thought Monroe was incompetent. 

#founding father bracket #worst founding father #founding fathers #amrev #brackets #polls #george washington #james monroe

[roamanddiscover]

Illinois

Illinois, a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States, is known for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. It is the sixth most populous state in the US, with Chicago as its largest city and Springfield as the state capital. Illinois is bordered by Wisconsin to the north, Indiana to the east, Kentucky to the southeast, Missouri to the west, and Iowa to the northwest. The state of Illinois covers a total area of 57,915 square miles and has a varied terrain, including vast farmlands, dense forests, rolling hills, rugged bluffs, and pristine lakes. The state's economy is heavily based on manufacturing, agriculture, and services, with major industries including financial services, healthcare, transportation equipment, and food processing. Illinois has a rich history and heritage that dates back to ancient times. The region was inhabited by various indigenous tribes, including the Cahokia, Potawatomi, and Illiniwek, before the arrival of European explorers and settlers in the 1600s. The French established the first settlement in Illinois, and it later became part of the United States in 1818. The state has a diverse population of around 12.7 million people, with a rich cultural tapestry of ethnicities, religions, and languages. English is the most widely spoken language in Illinois, followed by Spanish and other languages spoken by immigrants. The predominant religions in the state are Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Illinois is also home to many stunning natural attractions, such as the Shawnee National Forest, Starved Rock State Park, and the Lincoln Trail State Park. The state also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with world-class museums, art galleries, and music venues. Illinois is famous for being the birthplace of many notable public figures, including Abraham Lincoln, Ronald Reagan, Ernest Hemingway, and Oprah Winfrey. If you visit Illinois, you will experience the warmth and hospitality of the locals, enjoy the natural beauty and stunning vistas of the state's countryside, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage and diversity that the state has to offer. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, Illinois has something for everyone.

Etymology

The name 'Illinois' comes from the French rendering of the Algonquian language word for the Illinois Confederation, 'ilinwek' or 'illiniwek.' This name refers to a group of Native American tribes who lived in the region even before the arrival of European explorers. The meaning of 'ilinwek' is disputed, but it is commonly translated as 'tribe of superior men,' 'men of men,' or 'best people.' The Illinois Confederation was a loose alliance of several tribes, including the Cahokia, Kaskaskia, Peoria, and Tamaroa, among others. They inhabited the region around the Mississippi River, extending from present-day Illinois to parts of Wisconsin and Missouri. The name 'Illinois' was officially adopted as the state's name when it achieved statehood in 1818. It was chosen by the state's first governor, Shadrach Bond, who sought to honor the Native American tribes who had long inhabited the land.

History

Illinois has a rich and diverse history, dating back to precolonial times. Before European settlers arrived, the area was home to indigenous peoples, including the Illini, Miami, and Potawatomi tribes. In the years that followed, Illinois played a key role in the French and Indian War and the American Revolution. The state became part of the Northwest Territory in 1787 and was officially recognized as a state in 1818. Throughout the 19th century, Illinois grew rapidly, becoming a major hub for transportation and industrial development. The state was also notable for its involvement in the Underground Railroad, helping slaves escape to freedom in the north. In the early 20th century, Illinois was a key player in the labor movement, with major strikes and protests taking place in Chicago and other urban centers. The state also played a significant role in both World Wars, supplying troops and resources for the war effort. In the years that followed, Illinois continued to grow and evolve, with major advancements in industry and technology. The state was also marked by several notable political scandals, including the impeachment and removal of Governor Rod Blagojevich in 2009. Today, Illinois is a vibrant and diverse state, with a rich cultural heritage and thriving economy. Its history is woven throughout the fabric of the state, from its urban centers to its rural communities.

Geology

Illinois has a diverse geological landscape with various regions that all have their unique formations. One of the most notable geological features in Illinois is the Ozark Dome, a subterranean formation characterized by underground mines of lead, zinc, and other minerals. In contrast to this, the northwest and north-central region have mostly glacial formations such as drumlins, eskers, and moraines, created by the last ice age. The state has a rich history of coal mining that has left behind abandoned underground mines throughout the central part of the state. These coal deposits are from the Pennsylvanian period and are believed to have been formed about 300 million years ago. The coal-rich areas in Illinois are where the land is flat and the soil is fertile. Illinois has also been known to produce natural gas and petroleum, which has played a significant role in the industrialization and economic growth of the state. The reserves of natural gas and petroleum are found primarily in southern Illinois, in the Illinois Basin. The state has an extensive system of rivers and lakes, including the Mississippi, Illinois, Ohio, and Wabash rivers, that have played a significant role in shaping the geological makeup of Illinois. The contributions of these rivers and lakes have been significant in creating the rich farmland that exists in the state, aside from providing transportation for goods and services. the state of Illinois has a diverse geological landscape that ranges from underground mines that are rich in minerals to the flatlands that are suitable for farming. The state's history has been shaped by the natural resources found within its borders, with coal, natural gas, and petroleum being significant contributors to Illinois's industrialization. The region's numerous rivers and lakes have also had a remarkable impact on shaping the landscape and creating the fertile soil necessary for farming.

Geography

Illinois is a heavily populated state located in the Midwest of the United States. It is surrounded by Indiana to the east, Missouri to the west, Wisconsin to the north, and Kentucky to the south. The state is divided into three distinct regions: the Central Plains, Shawnee Hills, and the Illinois Ozarks. The Central Plains region consists of gently rolling hills and vast prairies with fertile soil, while the Shawnee Hills region is characterized by hills, bluffs, and forests. The Illinois Ozarks region, on the other hand, consists of rugged hills, ridges, and deep ravines. Illinois also houses several water bodies, including the Mississippi River, the Ohio River, and the Wabash River. The state also has many lakes, including Lake Michigan, which is the fifth-largest freshwater lake in the world by volume. The Chicago River also meanders through downtown Chicago to create an impressive sightseeing opportunity. The land use in Illinois is predominantly agricultural, with over 75% of the land used for farming purposes. The state is one of the largest producers of corn and soybeans in the United States. In addition to agriculture, the state is also known for its manufacturing and industrial capabilities. The major industrial centers in the state include Joliet, Rockford, Peoria, and Bloomington-Normal. Over the years, there has been a significant increase in urbanization and suburbanization in Illinois, primarily near Chicago, which is the largest city in the state. The state ranks fifth in the country in terms of urbanization, with over 87% of the population residing in urban areas. The state has an extensive transportation infrastructure network, including roads, highways, railways, and airports. The Illinois Tollway system covers over 292 miles of roadway to connect the major cities and metropolitan areas in the state. The Chicago O’Hare International Airport is the busiest airport in Illinois and one of the busiest in the United States. It serves over 83 million passengers every year. Illinois is also home to several protected areas and parks, including the Shawnee National Forest, the Illinois Beach State Park, the Starved Rock State Park, and the Lincoln Park Zoo. These parks offer visitors a glimpse of the state's natural beauty and biodiversity and are popular destinations for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. the physical geography of Illinois is an interesting mix of rolling hills, deep ravines, forests, and water bodies. The state's land use is predominantly agricultural, with a growing urbanization trend near major cities. It has an extensive transportation network and offers numerous recreational and entertainment options for tourists. Illinois is indeed one of the most geographically diverse and culturally rich states in the United States.

Ecology

Illinois is a state filled with diverse ecology, with several major biomes present within its borders. Forests, grasslands, wetlands, rivers, lakes, and streams are all habitats for a wide variety of plants and animals. About 25% of the state remains forested, with the majority of it located in the southern part of the state. The state's wetlands play a crucial role in regulating water levels, filtering pollutants, and providing habitat and food for many species. Sadly, many of these biomes have been severely impacted by human activities such as development and farming. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) works tirelessly to preserve and maintain these natural areas. They have established numerous state parks, nature preserves, and wildlife refuges to protect habitats and support wildlife populations. the state has several programs to provide financial and technical support to landowners who wish to participate in conservation efforts. One of the most significant conservation challenges in Illinois is combating invasive species that threaten many of the state's native ecosystems. The state has established protocols to identify and remove these species, including the use of prescribed burns, herbicides, and other methods. The state is also working to address water quality concerns, particularly in the Illinois River. Agricultural runoff, sewage treatment discharge, and other pollutants have had a damaging effect on the river's ecology. The state is implementing a variety of measures to improve the water quality, including guidelines for agricultural practices, new wastewater treatment facilities, and river restoration projects. The state also recognizes the importance of protecting its endangered and threatened species. The Illinois Endangered Species Protection Board is responsible for developing and implementing plans to conserve and recover species on the brink of extinction in the state. Several species, such as the gray wolf, black bear, and mountain lion, have been eliminated from the state and are being considered for reintroduction. the state encourages residents and visitors to participate in conservation efforts and education programs. These programs provide opportunities for people to learn about the state's ecology, wildlife, and natural resources and how they can help protect them.

Biodiversity

Illinois boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna, with both native and introduced species inhabiting the state. Several types of forests, including oak-hickory and beech-maple, cover much of the state. The Illinois River, Lake Michigan, and other waterways are home to several species of fish, turtles, and amphibians. Moreover, Illinois' native plant life provides an important habitat for a variety of animals. Wildflowers such as purple coneflowers and wild lupine are often found on the state's prairies, providing food and shelter for animals ranging from bison to butterflies. Threatened or endangered species such as the Illinois mud turtle and Hine's emerald dragonfly call the state home, requiring conservation efforts to protect their habitats. In addition to the native species, Illinois has seen an influx of non-native species. Some species have been deliberately introduced due to their perceived benefits, while others have arrived unintentionally through human activities such as shipping and travel. However, non-native species can have negative impacts on the environment and native species, often outcompeting and marginalizing them. As a result, Illinois has regulations in place to prevent the introduction and spread of non-native species. Protecting Illinois' biodiversity is necessary to maintain the state's ecological health and promote its economic wellbeing. The state has established several programs to address conservation and restoration efforts, such as the Illinois Wildlife Action Plan and the Illinois Nature Preserves Commission. the state has regulations in place to protect threatened and endangered species and their habitats, as well as to prevent the introduction of non-native species that may threaten the native ecosystems. Furthermore, Illinois residents also play a critical role in the protection of the state's biodiversity. For example, homeowners can plant native species in their yards to provide habitat and food for local wildlife and can take steps to reduce their carbon footprint, aiding in the fight against climate change. Conservation organizations and volunteer groups also provide opportunities for citizens to get involved in restoration and conservation efforts across the state. Illinois' biodiversity is essential to its ecological and economic health. The state's rich natural resources provide habitat for a diverse array of native species, as well as several non-native species. However, conservation efforts are necessary to protect these resources and prevent the spread of non-native species. Through both governmental and individual actions, Illinois can continue to promote its ecological wellbeing while supporting its social and economic interests.

turtles

Climate

Illinois has a diverse climate due to its location in the central United States, bordering the Great Lakes region and stretching south to the Mississippi River. The state experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. In the northern part of the state, the climate is considered humid continental, characterized by warm summers and cold winters with heavy snowfall. Average temperatures in January, the coldest month, range from 24°F to 30°F (-4°C to -1°C), while July, the warmest month, sees averages from 64°F to 82°F (18°C to 28°C). In central Illinois, the climate is also humid continental, but with warmer temperatures throughout the year. Summers are hot and humid with occasional thunderstorms, while winters are milder with less snowfall. Average temperatures in January range from 25°F to 33°F (-4°C to 0°C), while July sees averages from 65°F to 85°F (18°C to 29°C). Southern Illinois is located within the humid subtropical climate zone, characterized by hot summers and mild winters with occasional snowfall. Average temperatures in January range from 32°F to 40°F (0°C to 4°C), while July averages range from 69°F to 89°F (21°C to 32°C). Illinois sees its fair share of severe weather, including thunderstorms, tornadoes, and even blizzards in the winter. The state averages about 35 to 45 thunderstorm days per year, with potential for damaging winds, hail, and tornadoes. The peak tornado season is from March to June, with an average of 47 tornadoes per year. Due to its location near the Great Lakes and Mississippi River, Illinois also experiences lake-effect snow and flooding. In the winter, cold air over the Great Lakes travels south, picking up moisture and dumping heavy snow on coastal areas. In the spring, heavy rains can cause flash flooding, especially in the central and southern parts of the state. Illinois' climate varies depending on location, but the state experiences all four seasons with mild to hot summers and cold to mild winters. Visitors should always check the weather forecast and be prepared for any potential severe weather events.

Environmental issues

Illinois is faced with numerous environmental challenges and concerns. One of the major concerns is the issue of pollution, both air, and water pollution. There are multiple sources of pollution in Illinois, including industrial facilities, agriculture, and transportation. Industrial facilities such as power plants, refineries, and manufacturing plants release toxic pollutants into the air and water, which can be harmful to human health and the environment. Agricultural activities such as the use of pesticides and fertilizers in farming contribute to water pollution in the state. These chemicals find their way into streams and rivers, leading to increased algae growth and the death of aquatic life. Transportation is also a major source of air pollution in Illinois. The use of vehicles such as cars, trucks, and buses releases harmful pollutants into the air, leading to respiratory problems and other health issues. Another major concern in Illinois is climate change. The state has experienced extreme weather conditions in recent years, including floods, droughts, and severe storms. These extreme weather events have led to damages to infrastructure, crop losses, and human health problems. The state is taking measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote clean energy sources, but more needs to be done to mitigate the effects of climate change. Illinois also faces challenges in conserving its natural resources such as forests, wetlands, and wildlife. Deforestation, urbanization, and industrialization have led to the loss of important habitats and biodiversity. The state has established protected areas such as state parks and nature reserves, but these efforts are not enough to prevent the loss of wildlife and habitats. waste management is another major environmental concern in Illinois. The state produces a significant amount of waste yearly, and proper disposal and recycling methods are needed to prevent land and water pollution. The state has implemented waste reduction programs such as the Illinois Green Business Association to promote sustainable waste management practices. Illinois is faced with numerous environmental challenges and concerns, from pollution to climate change and natural resource conservation. The state government, together with stakeholders, is taking measures to address these issues, but concerted efforts are needed to ensure a sustainable environment for future generations. Read the full article

#Illinoistours #IllinoisTravel #NorthAmericaTours #TravelTheWorld #visitIllinois

[kammartinez]

By Sue Halpern

Five years ago, Tamara and Cirt Yancy moved to Nixa, Missouri, for the schools. The town sits on the Ozark Plateau, a dozen miles from Springfield, in the southwest corner of the state. In the past thirty years, its population has more than quadrupled, from five thousand to more than twenty thousand, turning a small agricultural community into a manicured enclave of recently constructed town houses set amid rolling hills. Twice in the past decade, its high school was designated a “blue-ribbon school” by the U.S. Department of Education; U.S. News & World Report rated it as the top high school in the area.

The Yancys, who have three children, were living in a Seattle suburb, which had become prohibitively expensive; Missouri, where Cirt had gone to high school, seemed a better bet. Culturally and politically, though, Nixa was a shock. It’s in the middle of the Bible Belt, with large Pentecostal and Baptist congregations. In 2020, Donald Trump received nearly seventy-five per cent of the vote in Christian County, where Nixa is the largest city. “It’s a nice area, but I did not know the political climate at all,” Tamara, who had grown up in the Pacific Northwest, told me. “It’s hard to be vocal about your beliefs in Nixa unless it’s straight, white, Christian, conservative, Republican.”

The Yancys first heard rumblings about a book ban in early 2022. On Facebook, people were saying that a small group of women in Nixa had begun filing official removal requests for books they considered to be pornographic, including Toni Morrison’s “The Bluest Eye,” and Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale.” (The complaint against “The Bluest Eye” reads, “Children of any age don’t need to be ‘educated’ on their mother’s sexual fantasies, incestual rape or unapologetic pedophilia.”) “The book bans came out of the blue,” Tamara told me. “I didn’t even know that in this day and age that was a thing, or that anyone would consider banning a book for any reason.”

By mid-April, the women had officially objected to sixteen books. It was the first time in more than fifteen years that anyone had requested a book be removed from the school’s library shelves. The Yancys and their Facebook friends, most of whom had never met in person, began talking about how to push back. “We created this book-warriors group,” Cirt said. “We’re going to fight to keep the books in the library.”

They called their group U-Turn in Education, to mirror the name of No Left Turn in Education, a national right-wing organization that, in 2020, began a crusade to insure that critical race theory was not taught in schools. The warriors were optimistic, Cirt told me. They built a Web site, in part to inform parents in the community that there was already a policy in place to restrict access to books they did not want their children reading.

To evaluate the books in question, the school administration appointed a set of committees, which eventually recommended that four of the books remain on the shelves: “The Handmaid’s Tale,” “Homegoing,” “Fun Home: A Family Tragicomic,” and “All Boys Aren’t Blue: A Memoir-Manifesto.” The committees also recommended that the other twelve books be “retained with restrictions,” meaning that they would not be shelved openly and could be checked out only with parental permission. But that, it turned out, was not the end of it. The women who initiated the book-removal requests appealed three of the committees’ recommendations. The seven-member school board would have to decide if “Fun Home” and “All Boys Aren’t Blue,” both queer coming of age memoirs, and “Homegoing” a multigenerational novel about the ramifications of the slave trade, would be allowed to remain in the high-school library. That decision, which was to be announced at a school-board meeting, would be final.

On May 12, 2022, hundreds of Nixa residents filed into the community room of the school district’s administrative building. Hundreds more were in a nearby overflow room or at home, watching on a live stream. Most members of U-Turn were in attendance, as were about twenty high-school students. Before the meeting started, the students had presented the school board with a petition opposing the removal of books from the library; of the three hundred and forty-five students whom they’d approached, only five chose not to sign it.

One of the petition’s organizers, Meghana Nakkanti, a junior at the time and a member of the debate team, was the first speaker during the public-comment period. She cited Miller v. California, the 1973 Supreme Court case that redefined obscenity from that which is “utterly without socially redeeming value” to that which lacks “literary, artistic, political, or scientific value,” a criterion, she said, met by none of the books in question. Another student, Justice Jones, who reported on the book bans in the school magazine, helping to spark student opposition, pointed out that “limiting a student on the perspectives they can read is not preparing them for the types of people they would encounter outside of school.” Tamara Yancy spoke, too. “I don’t really have much to say, because I think that you guys probably will listen to the students,” she said. “Their voice should be the loudest. Theirs should be the one you should consider. It’s their library.”

Most of the chairs in the community room, though, were occupied by people who had come to voice their opposition to the books on the docket, many of them members of a private Facebook group named Concerned Parents of Nixa. Some of the speakers called the school librarians pedophiles and groomers who should be arrested and put on a national sex-offenders registry. The final speaker, a Nixa student named Alex Rapp, went off script. He addressed the librarians directly, saying, “We as a student body are behind you and will support you.” And then, one by one, the school-board members were polled on the choice to retain, restrict, or remove each book. In the end, they voted to restrict “Homegoing,” whereas the two queer memoirs would be permanently removed from the school library. “I am not for bans for any reason,” Tamara told me. “But it would be one thing if a book was never in the library because, during the vetting process, it was decided that it was not appropriate. It’s a totally different story to have it in the library and then physically removed. That, to me, is a lot worse.”

Many of the books being challenged in Nixa are on lists posted by Book Look and Book Looks, Web sites spun out of the dark-money-funded, conservative organization Moms for Liberty. Besides nearly identical names, the Web sites have complementary goals. Book Looks stated mission is to provide “reviews centered around objectionable content, including profanity, nudity, and sexual content”; Book Look’s “plan of action” is to get people “engaged with outrage” and to vote out school-board members who “refuse to work on this issue.” According to research by PEN America, nationally, more than sixteen hundred books were banned between July, 2021, and June, 2022, and most of them addressed L.G.B.T.Q.+ themes or had a protagonist or prominent secondary character of color. Most of those books were targeted by groups that did not exist before 2020, but which now, the report notes, “share lists of books to challenge, and . . . employ tactics such as swarming school board meetings, demanding newfangled rating systems for libraries, using inflammatory language about ‘grooming’ and ‘pornography,’ and even filing criminal complaints against school officials, teachers, and librarians.” Tamara, who is a substitute teacher, told me that she has been called a groomer and a pedophile “many, many times.”

In southwest Missouri, the book bans were also being promoted by Andy Wells, who was then the head of the state chapter of No Left Turn in Education. Wells, a former Army helicopter mechanic, is hostile to what he calls “government” schools. At a recent gathering of the Stanley M. Herzog Foundation, which gives scholarships to families to send their children to private Christian schools, he said, “This is a place where we, we as Christians, have the option to send our children to where we want them to be educated, not where the people who want to change society want them to be educated.” According to lawyers for the American Civil Liberties Union, who sued the Wentzville, Missouri, school district over its book-removal policy, Wells is part of “a targeted campaign . . . to remove particular ideas and viewpoints about race and sexuality from school libraries” and “has advised that challengers should talk about sexual content in the books rather than sexual orientation, sexual identity, or race to avoid legal scrutiny.” (Wells denied that the campaign’s intention is discriminatory and maintained that it was about removing explicit material from schools; the suit was withdrawn when most of the books were returned to the library shelves.)

Groups such as No Left Turn in Education and Moms for Liberty are now active in hundreds of school districts around the country. A number of state legislatures have taken up their cause. Around the time of the book bans in Nixa, Rick Brattin, a Missouri state senator, proposed legislation that would make it a Class A misdemeanor for anyone affiliated with a public or private school to provide students with “obscene” material. “In schools all across the country, we’ve seen this disgusting and inappropriate content making its way into our classrooms,” Brattin said. “Instead of recognizing this as the threat it is, some schools are actually fighting parents to protect this filth. The last place our children should be seeing pornography is in our schools.”

Two months later, a version of Brattin’s provision was added to a sex-trafficking bill, S.B. 775, making it illegal to expose a student in a K-12 school to “explicitly sexual” visual material, without defining the meaning of “explicitly sexual.” Nonetheless, any school employee found to have done so can be jailed for a year and fined two thousand dollars. The law went into effect last August. According to Colleen Norman, who chairs the Missouri Library Association’s Intellectual Freedom Committee, teachers, administrators, and librarians, fearful of running afoul of the law, began removing books from their classrooms and school libraries: “Because the law is vague, schools are overreacting and pulling everything that could possibly in any way be deemed inappropriate, because they’re afraid of a lawsuit.”

In February, the Missouri chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union sued the prosecuting attorney in Jackson County (as a proxy for all Missouri prosecuting attorneys) on behalf of the Missouri Association of School Librarians and the Missouri Library Association, challenging S.B. 775, which it called “the government censorship law that caused school districts across the state to order the removal of hundreds of titles from library shelves.” Weeks later, the chair of the Missouri House Budget Committee, Cody Smith, retaliated by removing all funding for public libraries from the state budget. Though S.B. 775 is specific to schools and school libraries, Smith expressed anger that the Missouri Library Association was a party to the suit. “I don’t think we should subsidize that effort,” he said at the time. “We are going to take out the funding and that is why.” In April, the Missouri House agreed with him, passing a budget that eliminated the four and a half million dollars that had been allocated for the state’s four hundred public libraries. (The Republican chairman of the state’s Senate Appropriations Committee is apparently moving to block the effort; he told the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, “There is no way that money is not going back into the budget.”)

Meanwhile, Missouri’s secretary of state, Jay Ashcroft, who is running for governor, and who has been shoring up his conservative bona fides by, among other things, voicing his opposition to gay marriage, proposed a complementary rule to S.B. 775. It penalizes public libraries that allow minors to access “non-age-appropriate” material. It also, he said, gives parents “the right to challenge a library’s age-appropriate designation for any material.”

Ashcroft’s rule is set to go into effect at the end of the month. “What this could mean is that if a teen-ager walked into my library and wanted to check out something by Stephen King or James Patterson, they would not be allowed to because it is in the adult-fiction section,” Norman told me. “Under this new rule, it would mean putting into place new systems that libraries currently do not have to create a separate library card for children. That would be a huge financial burden on libraries and goes completely against our tenets of intellectual freedom and free access to materials and education and resources.” Because the secretary of state’s office administers Missouri’s public-library system, Ashcroft’s rule did not require the legislature or the public to vote on it.

I met the core members of U-Turn in Education one evening in late March, a week before an election that threatened to add two candidates endorsed by Moms for Liberty to the school board. The mood at the meeting, held in the home of Sheila Michaels, one of the librarians at Nixa High School, and her husband, Jeremy Hayes, was convivial. After more than a year of working together, the group members had become good friends; they told stories and joked around, but the stakes were high. The election threatened to install a “parents’ rights” majority on the school board, which would likely lead to more book removals. Michaels, who has two children at Nixa High, said, “Even if I didn’t work here, the fact that a small, very angry, and loud group of people undermine my parental choices isn’t right. They say that it’s all about parental rights, but they’re trampling on the rights of others.”

Michaels grew up in an evangelical household near St. Louis, and attended Evangel University, a Christian liberal-arts college in Springfield. “But then you go into public education, and you see all these different types of people and their struggles,” she said. “And that just builds your empathy so much.” She became a librarian five years ago, after teaching English at the school for more than a decade. “For better or worse, librarianship is my identity,” she said. “It’s my values.” Last year, she was named an American Library Association Emerging Leader; this year, she was appointed to a national task force working on issues related to intellectual freedom. She told me a story of a student who saw an L.G.B.T.Q.-ally sign on her office window and sought her out; the girl’s parents were threatening to kick her out of the house for being queer. “If we take away books that represent marginalized populations, what does that say to those kids who are in those populations?” Michaels said. “You’re not appropriate? You’re not O.K.?”

Two members of U-Turn, Elizabeth Dudash-Buskirk and Jasen Goodall, were also running for the school board. Dudash-Buskirk, a professor in the communications department at Missouri State, had been a particularly outspoken member of the group, she said, because her job was secure and she no longer had a child in the school system. At the school-board meeting last May, she had read provocative passages from the Bible, implying that perhaps it, too, should be banned. “I was reading about Lot’s daughters, and how they got their father drunk so that they could rape him and produce an heir,” she said. “And these people were shouting that I wasn’t reading this from the Bible. It was disturbing.”

Goodall, who owns a store that sells billiard tables, seemed less likely to be a member of U-Turn. He had spent six years in leadership positions in the P.T.A., had been the president of the P.T.A. Council, and counted many Nixa school administrators among his friends. “I’ve always tried to stay neutral in politics because of our business,” he told me. But, after the Goodall’s house burned down last September, his priorities shifted; the realization that life could change in an instant convinced him that it was no longer prudent to stay out of the fray. “I really don’t care if someone that opposes me shops with me or not,” he said. “This issue became more important than saving my business.” The Goodalls have two children in the Nixa schools; two and a half years ago, their youngest came out to them. “My daughter makes it personal for me,” he said.

The next night, at a candidates’ forum for the school-board election, around sixty people sat in the gym of Nixa’s junior high school, as the five candidates answered questions that had been provided in advance. Alex Bryant, an evangelical pastor who likes to say that he is “a big, bald, and beautiful Black guy” married to “a little white lady,” told the forum audience that he “absolutely” supports the efforts of Concerned Parents of Nixa, which had been renamed Concerned Parents of the Ozarks, to remove books from the school library. The reason he was running for school board, he said, was “to serve the people who are like me. We’re conservative, and we want our kids taught math, science, history, and English, not critical race theory or gender ideology or any of that stuff that does not line up with our values.” Bryant was endorsed by Moms for Liberty, even though the organization does not have a chapter in the county.

If elected, Bryant would become the second board member chosen to advance parents’ rights, joining Bridget Bidinger, an original member of Concerned Parents of the Ozarks, who unseated a long-serving incumbent in April of last year. During Bidinger’s campaign, she had appeared on a podcast produced by We the People, an organization dedicated to “restoring the Constitutional Republic as created by our nation’s founders.” “It’s not about banning books,” she told the show’s host. “It’s about making sure the library is offering books that are age-appropriate. When it comes to books that are sexually explicit in nature or pornographic in nature, those books have no place whatsoever on the library shelves.” Bidinger told me that the pandemic, with its vaccination requirements and mask mandates, had shaken her and other parents in Nixa out of what she called “a very trusting mind-set” about public education. “I loathe the word ‘ban,’ because it’s taken out of context in many of the cases, and it’s meant to stoke fear of censorship and fear that your freedom of speech and your rights are being taken away,” she said. “But I’ve got to think that the majority of people, myself included, are doing it with the best interests of the students, and protecting their minds.”

When the election results were tallied the following week, Bryant received more votes than Dudash-Buskirk and Goodall combined. The Nixa school board will vote on the next set of books in June, ​​which will include the possible removal of three graphic novels to maintain compliance with S.B. 775. A total of fifteen books had been challenged, three of which, Tamara Yancy told me, were not even in the high-school library: “They didn’t even check. They just downloaded the information sheets from Book Looks and turned them in.” She and Cirt have discussed whether they should move again. “But on the other hand,” Tamara said, “who’s gonna stand up, if not us?”

#books #education #censorship #politics

[rebeccathenaturalist]

apologies if you’ve been asked this before, but do you know a good way to find local native plant nurseries?

@swmngpools So there are a few things I do if I'm trying to find native plant nurseries in a specific place.

First, I'll search online for "[location] native plant nursery". Here in the US I usually search by state, though sometimes I'll add in the nearest major city, too. If my search is only coming up with general native plant sites and not nurseries in particular, then I'll put the location in one set of quotes, and "native plant nursery" in another--for example, "Seattle, WA" "native plant nursery".

I also try Google Maps. I navigate to the general area where I want to look--not TOO specific, especially if it's an area that is less likely to have native plant nurseries; I have more options where I live now in the Pacific Northwest than where I grew up in the Ozarks. I'll search for "native plant nurseries" or "native plants". Unfortunately, this doesn't always work as well as a general search engine because if there isn't an abundance of native plant sellers in an area, Google Maps tends to be more likely to show me general plant vendors. Searching in the PNW I get several hits on Google Maps, but searching around my old hometown in Missouri I get....Lowe's.

To be fair, Google Maps did also show me the well-established general plant nursery that my mom used to take me to when I was a wee kiddo in the 80's, and which is still around today. So if all you're getting is places like these, email, call, or visit them if it's convenient, and ask whether they carry or can order native plants. Or if they don't, see if they know of a place that does. You might also try landscaping companies; most of them stick to whatever non-native plants are popular, but there are some landscapers who do use native plants as well and may be able to help with sourcing.

While we're on the topic of going directly to people, if you're in the US most states have a Native Plant Society that can help you find sources for native plants. Other conservation entities, both here and elsewhere, may be able to help as well. This includes any private businesses, nonprofit organizations, or governmental entities that may be involved in things like environmental protections, habitat restoration and preservation, outdoor education and other activities, etc. Even if they themselves aren't directly involved in native plants there might be someone on staff who knows more about it.

Another thing I might try if I'm feeling a bit stuck is to ask in a relevant online group. For example, on Facebook there are groups like Pollinator Friendly Yards, that aren't region-specific, but that have people from all over who may be able to help you with resources local to you. And, of course, this is another good place to look for groups with native plant enthusiasts local to you--use the same search terms in Facebook's search feature that you did for your general search engine search.

One last option--if you know of a few native plants you might want to try planting, search for "[plant name] seeds" or "[plant name] starts", or even "buy [plant name]". You may have to search through the results to find someone actually selling what you're looking for. It's also possible that the plant is difficult to cultivate--or no one has even thought to try cultivating it--and therefore can't be purchased. Make sure that the specific species/variety is the one found in your area; a lot of people trying to help monarch butterflies in North America, for example, end up buying non-native tropical milkweed instead of whatever their native regional milkweed species is.

On that note, there's a lot of debate over "nativars", cultivars of native species that may be bred to exaggerate certain traits or make them more suitable for a vastly changed landscape. On the one hand it may seem like a great idea to have a plant that is easier to grow. However, nativars may actually be less beneficial to insects and other wildlife. For example, some nativars are cultivated with altered flowers, such as a double flower that has more petals than the original type. Pollinators are often unable to reach the nectar or pollen of these altered flowers. Nativars of a plant that normally has green leaves but that has been bred for more red in the foliage will be less likely to be eaten by herbivorous insects because the anthocyanins that cause the red coloration give the leaves a bad taste to deter insect predation. All of which, of course, defeats the purpose of planting native plants, since you WANT your native plants to be eaten by insects and other wildlife. So get the "wild type" native plant rather than nativars.

So those are my suggestions for seeking out native plant nurseries. Again, I want to emphasize that some places will be more likely to have them than others; the Pacific Northwest US has a great abundance, whereas a few cursory searches didn't turn up any in the Czech Republic. If you're trying to find native plants in an area where English is not the most common language, search in whatever the common language(s) is and you'll be more likely to get results if there are native plant nurseries or vendors in the area.

I hope this helps! Let me know if I can help with anything else.

#swmngpools #native plants #plants #habitat restoration #ecology #restoration ecology #gardening #garden #botany #environment #environmentalism #conservation

[morbidology]

TeresaSue Hilt was a petite 22-year-old student at Northwest Missouri State University. She had been granted a degree in music education and had also been enrolled in graduate programs leading to a Master of Science degree in guidance and counselling.

Teresa was extremely active on the campus; she was a member of the yearbook staff, the marching band as well as the Student Union board and several music groups amongst the students. Teresa also took part in several college productions including “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown,” where she played the character, Peppermint Patty.

In her free time, Teresa enjoyed sewing and singing. She was outgoing and bubbly and her friends would later recall that she got on well with everybody who encountered her. “She was a small girl with a big smile and even bigger laugh,” said a friend of Teresa.

Those who knew her said that she never locked her apartment door and always saw the best in everybody. Her trusting nature would prove to be deadly....

𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞:

#unsolved #true crime #cold case

[pcttrailsidereader]

He broke a hiking record on the PCT . . . This was the extreme physical toll

Nick Fowler set a record for the fastest self-supported thru-hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. Here he took a selfie at mile marker 300 in the Southern California desert. Nick Fowler

SF Chronicle writer Gregory Thomas continues his interest in fast hiking of the PCT as he talks to Nick Fowler, new record holder for the fastest unsupported hike of the PCT. [See also the last post about Karel Sabbe's fastest support hike of the PCT.] Unsupported means that Fowler did not have a team to meet him on the trail with food or water or shelter. Fowler would have had to send himself his resupply or travel into trail towns to purchase food. It is an amazing achievement but not without consequences . . . including significant health issues. Interestingly, Fowler walked his hike SOBO.

An Oklahoma hiker traveling alone shattered the speed record for a self-supported thru-hike of the Pacific Crest Trail. That means he trekked the 2,650-mile trail solo, without the backing of a crew to help him make camp, cook or care for his body along the arduous journey.

Starting in Washington state in July and heading south, Nick Fowler covered an average of about 51 miles per day for 52 days, 9 hours and 18 minutes. He arrived in Campo (San Diego County), near the Mexico border, on Sept. 6, having beaten the previous self-supported record by more than three days.

On Monday morning, Fowler said his body is paying the price for the effort: His toes and forefeet are still numb.

“I’m exhausted,” he told the Chronicle. “I’ve been doing nothing but eating and sleeping since I got home.”

Speed records on the Pacific Crest Trail — and for that matter the Appalachian Trail, too — have been falling the past several years as extreme endurance athletes have taken interest in one-upping each other to establish fastest known times, or FKTs, on America’s wilderness trails. Several of the players belong to the burgeoning global community of ultrarunners — niche performers who participate in 100-mile-plus foot races in the mountains — including Karel Sabbe, who last month smashed the record for a supported thru-hike of the PCT, completing the trail in 46 days.

Nick Fowler sits at the southern terminus of the Pacific Crest Trail near the U.S.-Mexico border in early September.Nick Fowler

Fowler, by contrast, is a 35-year-old entrepreneur from Tulsa who says he hadn’t hiked much at all until four years ago. “I’m a nobody,” he told the Chronicle. “I’m brand new to this.”

In 2019, Fowler and his wife lit out in a van to visit all 63 national parks across the country. Along the way, he discovered a love for the outdoors and became fixated on pushing his body to the max.

Two years ago, he set the self-supported FKT on the 1,248-mile Pacific Northwest Trail, which crosses mountain ranges in Montana, Idaho and Washington. Last year he claimed the same record on the Ozark Trail in Missouri. His high mark for a single day of hiking is 78 miles, he said.

But each trek took a toll, and Fowler came away with ligament damage in his ankles and a stress fracture in one foot. Last winter, he prepared for the PCT while on crutches, healing from a foot injury.

The past several PCT record-setters have attacked the trail from south to north, in part to avoid the worst of late-summer heat in the Southern California desert. But Fowler thought heading in the reverse direction would give him an edge: He’d start in Washington’s Cascade Range, where last winter’s snowfall was relatively low, then hit the High Sierra later in summer, when its historic snowpack would be at its thinnest and the landscape would be most easily passable.

The first half of his hike was relatively fast and smooth. He went ultralight, carrying a kit with a base weight of just 7½ pounds, and covered 55 miles per day. Every few days he’d detour into a town to buy food or pick up resupply boxes of clothes and shoes he’d mailed himself along the route.

Then he hit the High Sierra, roughly halfway through, “and it all kind of hit the fan,” Fowler said.

Exhaustion, dizzy spells, a pulled quadriceps, and “the nastiest blister I ever had in my life” chipped away at Fowler’s well-being. Then his urine turned blood red, the result of a condition called rhabdomyolysis, when muscles break down and release their contents into the blood.

The 10,000 calories per day Fowler had budgeted wasn’t enough to sustain him, so his starving body started pulling proteins and electrolytes from his damaged muscles. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention defines rhabdomyolysis, which can be triggered by intense exertion, as “a serious medical condition that can be fatal or result in permanent disability.”

“I kept going even though everyone was telling me to stop,” Fowler said.

Attempting such an extreme objective forces a person to confront physical and mental limits, said Heather “Anish” Anderson, an author and respected endurance adventurer who set the self-supported FKT in 2013. During her trek, she felt her body “really breaking down,” she said.

Near Mount Shasta, Fowler crossed paths with Sabbe, the ultrarunner working on his supported FKT, and the two snapped a selfie together. Sabbe was being paced by two crew members, one of whom Fowler saw shuttling cans of soda for Sabbe — standard procedure for supported thru-hikers but an impossibility for those going self-supported.

“I was so jealous,” Fowler said. “I would have done anything for a cold pop in certain places.”

While traversing the High Sierra, Fowler encountered a ranger who was warning hikers off the trail: A hurricane of historic proportions was bearing down on Southern California and was forecast to bring deadly conditions to the mountains there.

“I thought, ‘I’ve already gone through so much, I’m not turning back now,’ ” Fowler said.

When Hurricane Hilary reached the southern Sierra, Fowler had to spend nearly two days hunkered down in a cave in the mountains.Nick Fowler

“I came out of the Sierra thinking, ‘Thank God I don’t have to deal with water anymore,’ ” he said.

The final stretch in the desert was so hot, and Fowler was so physically depleted, that the rhabdomyolysis returned and the hiker’s hands locked up on him, making it difficult for him to buckle his backpack straps.

By the time he arrived at the trail’s southern terminus to meet his wife, Fowler had been out of food and water for hours and hadn’t seen another hiker in days. “I felt like crap,” he said. “It was a real rough finish.”

FastestKnownTime.com, the record keeper for mountain treks, is reviewing Fowler’s record claim, which includes his GPS track, photos and trail notes.

Several days after finishing, Fowler said he’s still “in a fog” mentally and physically but had no regrets.

“It’s the funnest thing I’ve ever done in my life,” he said. “It’s just fascinating what the human body is capable of.”

#NOBO #FKT #Unsupported hike #Anish #Karel Sabbe #Nick Fowler #rhabdomyolysis