I really just don't. I do not feel any vengeful feelings, all I feel is I want nothing to do with you from here on out. One time is all it takes for me to want to sever any future contact with the person. It's super petty but really all it takes is one time for me to want to never have to talk to you ever again.
I don't harbor any negative feelings. Please go on and win the lottery, marry the most amazing person, have your life be the most incredible thing ever but I just never want to interact with you ever again. You have become in my eyes a grenade that can go off at any point. You have taken yourself out of the group of people I feel safe or comfortable around and put yourself into the threatening group so that I just do not want to interact with you ever again.
That's the thing, zero negative feelings for the person, just that I have now come to view you as a threat and once that happens, I don't want you anywhere near me. I will go a long way to cut someone out of my life when they've crossed that line, literally so far as moving to avoid the person it's that strong the feeling of them being someone I never want to interact with again.
The biggest reason for that is people who go around yelling at others seldom ever realize how horrible they are, you can say to them, dude your yelling at people is super messed up and they will just come up with tons of reasons why you deserve to be yelled at, why they are in the right and probably just get angrier and yell at you more. So that there is so resolution to that person except removing yourself from any interaction with them and with time forgetting they exist.

I F14 have been told by multiple psychiatrists and nurses, "You shouldn't have gone through so much at such a young age. People don't develope problems this serious til later in life." And it really put a perspective on things. I've been told by people all my issues are "just hormones" and "it's just puberty you'll grow out of it" I have diagnosed MDD (Major depressive disorder) ADD (Attention Deficite Disorder) Bulimia (Severe eating disorder) Chronic Migraines, chronic joint pain, and GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder) I am medicated for all except Bulimia, but because of an incident a few weeks ago my mother has restricted my medication from me. I have been to 4 psychiatric hospitals with more suicide attempts than i have fingers. From slitting my wrists to attempted overdoses, jumping off the roof of my 2 story home, attempted starvation, and attempting hangings. I've done it all except use of a firearm. I have a surplus of friends at school and supportive friends online. my relationship with my mother has gotten much better. My father passed when I was 7, and I was later groomed and molested by a family friend from 7-9. From 10-14 I've self harmed, burned, scratched, cut, bruised, ripped out hair, and torn skin multiple times a week every month. I was later raped and sexually assaulted multiple times during a 5 month relationship when I was 12-13. He was 16-17. I'm not liked by people at school, nor people in town. I look weird, out of place. I'm 6'0, mixed Jamaican/polish, short curly pixie cut, fat to skinny girls skinny to fat girls, hip dips, broad shoulders, short eyelashes, the get-go. I plan on taking my ex-boyfriends pistol and shooting myself in the head with it 3/28/23. Whenever I think about suicide or commiting or self harming. There's no sense of anxiety, no worrysom of others, no issues, nothing. Just contentment, this is what's going to happen, I will be at peace in a higher plain and I will achieve Nirvana. I don't know if I'm supposed to be sad, or if I'm supposed to scream and cry and sob about killing myself, I don't know if there's something wrong with me for feeling this way but I don't really care. I will forever love everyone who stuck by me these years. If you recover my phone after my death, please don't go through my gallery 🙏🏼

So, as it turns out, on a perfect day (I teach upper elementary) my class is kinda like a roller coaster, I like to try to have us be shapeshifting; when I pull it off well it feels nice for everyone, I think. It feels like something... extraordinary. I somehow manage to have us be very focused, calm, productive, and agreeable (almost like a machine) while also having us be quite expressive, and loud at points, with a strong sense of personality. The problem is that being able to pull this off takes a lot of skill and mental clarity and serenity, something which I seemingly can't pull off as well as I maybe did at the first half of this school year (I struggle with OCD, Anxiety, and probably Bipolar).
Now there's a disappointment in me when I can't pull it all off and when I can only aim at having us work like a machine, I feel guilty and disappointed that I can't be this extraordinary figure who can do it all and I project this onto how I think the students are interpreting the class. I feel like I've built up the students' idea of my class in such a way that I feel bad having us be so... machine like and arguably a bit repressive. When I can't pull it off I'm also feeling very tense, anxious, and obsessive compulsive, and even if I pull off being pleasant and productive with the class, internally I'm not okay.
My question is, how do I strike a balance? I figure I have to understand that I shouldn't feel like I owe anyone anything and that I should try to do a friendly, functional job with the students at the very least, but it's hard, all the negative self talk.
And these are kids who behave in a way that's not up to scratch with their other teachers imo (my school has a departmentalized class model), with me I raise their bar, but sometimes I surprise myself and ask myself how I even do it when I can pull off everything. They're coming into my class with an expectation of rapport and socialization with me and I'm feeling so bad about the fact that I often now just feel like shutting their excitability down. Other times I'm able to use it that energy very flexibly, now I feel so tense and obsessive compulsive that I just can't fathom too much openness, and I can sense their excitability simmering.

Hey all, time to reign in the collection with a massive sale! Lets get right to it:
Payment: Paypal FF, Yolo's have priority!
Timestamperooni
​
Spyderco Para 3 -- Knifejoy Excl in 20CV (Video)
-Modded with Flytanium Lotus Para 3 scales
-Condition: Modded/Disassembled. Slight snail in showside scale (see video)
-Knife has not cut anything, nor been carried.
Bought a fresh knife from Knifejoy, disassembled it (destructive process), then plopped flytanium scales on it.
Beautiful satin hardware and 27.5v Blue Anno
SV $225
​
Spyderco PM2 -- Aramis Grand Line + Hand Forged Damascus Blade (Video)
Heavily Modded - Picked up on the swap and modded some more!
- Aramis Carbon Fiber PM2 Grand Line scales (absolutely stunning)
- Michael Reents Hand Forged Damascus (~58 Rockwell)
- Custom Clip, maybe MXG Gear?
Comes with Original Spyderco CPM S45VN Blade, and Camo G10 Scales, + original/extra Washers
Both blades are in excellent condition. Damascus Blade has been sharpened on my Wicked Edge at 18.5DPS
Aramis Scales have no flaws (G10 Scales un-used as well). The blade was sharpened on my Wicked Edge system with a 18.5DPS edge. There is some blade play, and its slightly off center. The S45VN Blade is very well centered. I hand filed a sharpening choil into the Damascus Blade for ease of sharpening
If you've never tried or heard of Aramis' line of scales... now is your chance!!
SV $375
​
Grimsmo Rask #1144 - Plum Scales with Gold Hardware (Video)
Date Completed - June 16 2022
-All Original Hardware Included (Nano Oil, Sticker, ID Card, Foam, Torx Bit, Knife, Case)
-Not first owner, has small tumble dents in scales. Maybe considered damage, but it came that way.
-Blade - RWL 34 Stonewashed
-Scales - Plum Crosshatched
-Disassembled: Yes
Plum color is vibrant, then with finger oils, the shade is a darker purple/plum. Very beautiful in sunlight. Perfect action, detent is crispy, absolutely fall shut as to be expected with Grimsmo
SV: $950
​
Holt Morpheus #93 - Blue (32v)/Bronze (15v) Dual Anno - Bronze Clip and Hardware (Video)
-Comes with Black Taco Pouch (with Red Holt Logo), the Detent Tool, and Selinko ID Card
-Birthdate 12/20/2021
-Refined - Feather Pattern
-There are some scratches on the pocket clip, and also some from the blade (but they look to be from the stonewashing
The build quality, design, feel, and all things aesthetic on this knife are 10/10. I don't like the blade geometry though, and this one happens to be a bit dull around the belly. I haven't sharpened it, thought I did lightly strop it a bit.
SV $700
​
Benchmade Bugout (Modded) - S90V, Flytanium Crossfade Scales w/ Lightning Ano (Video)
-This custom Bugout is a mashup of 3 knives. It sports the Red aluminum Thumbstuds/Spacers, and Black Steel Liners from the Aluminum 535-4Bk.
-Flytanium Crossfade scales which have been polished, then flame anodized to take on the classic "Lightning Ano". Both scales are unique in colotone.
No Original hardware, and the box is a Mini Osborne 945BK-1. Sorry! It does come with the Benchmade microfiber pouch though
SV $250
​
Benchmade Bugout 535BK-2205 - Jade G10 scales, CPM-M4 Blade (Black Coating), Limited Edition
-This bugout is sporting all the original hardware from a 535BK-2205, except that it has custom Flytanium Crossfade scales (original scales included though).
-The Crossfade scales have been annodized a green gold
-The Blade is a Limited Edition, and annoyingly, it came to me with faint trails on the blade. If that's the type of thing that bothers you...welcome to my world.
All black hardware, striking green/gold titanium scales. Fall Shut, Great Centering, mild (benchmade axis lock) blade play.
SV $225
​
Benchmade Bugout Heavily Modded 535. S30V Satin Blade
-Tons of Titanium in this puppy. Blue anodized (27.5V) Flytanium Crossfade scales
-MXG Gear Clip (my favorite for Benchmades)
-Satin Titanium Thumbstuds, and Backspacer
-Silver hardware for Pivot, screws, and Axis Bar
This knife came to me used, and sharpened unevenly, So I reprofiled it on the wicked edge -- Its now 18.5 Degrees Per side, and stupid sharp. I didn't lap it though, because once things get too shiny for me, I stop using them. I didn't want someone to inherit that "safe queen" ideal for these bugouts. (Ask me for pics of my user bugout like this one!!)
Lets call this a working edge--Ground to 3000 Grit, cuts phonebook paper pretty dang gud.
Centering is dead on, no blade play, fall shut. Faint snail trail on the blue scale, sadly :(
SV $225
Lastly,
Shirogorov F95 with Carbon Fiber Inlays. Old school, S90V Blade
-This is an older Shiro model, with barrel spacers, not a solid Ti backspacer.
-S90V Blade sharpened to a Mirror edge by the person who owned this before me
-MRBS, beautiful glide shut action typical of Shirogorovs. (A little faster action than my Quantum Gen 1)
-I have not disassembled it, though I believe it has been by previous owners. Not sure.
This F95 is a super gem, but I found my ideal Shiro in the F3NS, so I'm willing to let this one go. It's an old school Shiro which I love, and the action on it is just wonderful. But I can't keep it and continue to explore the knife world, so off it goes.
SV $900
​
And thats it! For now...
I am greatly interested in acquiring a TRM Shadow, and I'll look at fair trades for a Rosie. But if you want $1300 for yours, I can't buy it. I'll wait for it to come down. TV on the rosie would be around 950 or less, and I wont hike up my TV's past my SV.
Thanks for looking, and I appreciate you stopping by!
If you feel my prices are wrong, feel free to shoot me an offer! Also, I have MANY pictures of these knives during the time they've spent in my collection, so if you want more information, or just to see more, please send me a msg, I'll happily scour my photos and send some more along.
​
Edit: Photo Dump!
-Phiz

So I got a new telephoto lens which had its autofocus gear whirring opened and aligned the white ring to fix it but when i put it back on my camera left a screw loose scratched the bayonet ring on the mount dont know if thats makes a difference. NOW i try kit lens/telephoto/prime lens it will not be able to focus on near objects, exposure is off but focusing on far objects fine. It cant focus on near objects with even manual focus.
What is the problem - bayonet ring replace - focus screen clean - Open and clean the mirror - or just use an allen key to fix front/back focusing
Any ideas i dont wanna pay 300$ to get it fixed!

Hey all, time to reign in the collection with a massive sale! Lets get right to it:
Payment: Paypal FF, Yolo's have priority!
Timestamperooni
​
Spyderco Para 3 -- Knifejoy Excl in 20CV (Video)
-Modded with Flytanium Lotus Para 3 scales
-Condition: Modded/Disassembled. Slight snail in showside scale (see video)
-Knife has not cut anything, nor been carried.
Bought a fresh knife from Knifejoy, disassembled it (destructive process), then plopped flytanium scales on it.
Beautiful satin hardware and 27.5v Blue Anno
SV $225
​
Spyderco PM2 -- Aramis Grand Line + Hand Forged Damascus Blade (Video)
Heavily Modded - Picked up on the swap and modded some more!
- Aramis Carbon Fiber PM2 Grand Line scales (absolutely stunning)
- Michael Reents Hand Forged Damascus (~58 Rockwell)
- Custom Clip, maybe MXG Gear?
Comes with Original Spyderco CPM S45VN Blade, and Camo G10 Scales, + original/extra Washers
Both blades are in excellent condition. Damascus Blade has been sharpened on my Wicked Edge at 18.5DPS
Aramis Scales have no flaws (G10 Scales un-used as well). The blade was sharpened on my Wicked Edge system with a 18.5DPS edge. There is some blade play, and its slightly off center. The S45VN Blade is very well centered. I hand filed a sharpening choil into the Damascus Blade for ease of sharpening
If you've never tried or heard of Aramis' line of scales... now is your chance!!
SV $375
​
Grimsmo Rask #1144 - Plum Scales with Gold Hardware (Video)
Date Completed - June 16 2022
-All Original Hardware Included (Nano Oil, Sticker, ID Card, Foam, Torx Bit, Knife, Case)
-Not first owner, has small tumble dents in scales. Maybe considered damage, but it came that way.
-Blade - RWL 34 Stonewashed
-Scales - Plum Crosshatched
-Disassembled: Yes
Plum color is vibrant, then with finger oils, the shade is a darker purple/plum. Very beautiful in sunlight. Perfect action, detent is crispy, absolutely fall shut as to be expected with Grimsmo
SV: $950
​
Holt Morpheus #93 - Blue (32v)/Bronze (15v) Dual Anno - Bronze Clip and Hardware (Video)
-Comes with Black Taco Pouch (with Red Holt Logo), the Detent Tool, and Selinko ID Card
-Birthdate 12/20/2021
-Refined - Feather Pattern
-There are some scratches on the pocket clip, and also some from the blade (but they look to be from the stonewashing
The build quality, design, feel, and all things aesthetic on this knife are 10/10. I don't like the blade geometry though, and this one happens to be a bit dull around the belly. I haven't sharpened it, thought I did lightly strop it a bit.
SV $700
​
Benchmade Bugout (Modded) - S90V, Flytanium Crossfade Scales w/ Lightning Ano (Video)
-This custom Bugout is a mashup of 3 knives. It sports the Red aluminum Thumbstuds/Spacers, and Black Steel Liners from the Aluminum 535-4Bk.
-Flytanium Crossfade scales which have been polished, then flame anodized to take on the classic "Lightning Ano". Both scales are unique in colotone.
No Original hardware, and the box is a Mini Osborne 945BK-1. Sorry! It does come with the Benchmade microfiber pouch though
SV $250
​
Benchmade Bugout 535BK-2205 - Jade G10 scales, CPM-M4 Blade (Black Coating), Limited Edition
-This bugout is sporting all the original hardware from a 535BK-2205, except that it has custom Flytanium Crossfade scales (original scales included though).
-The Crossfade scales have been annodized a green gold
-The Blade is a Limited Edition, and annoyingly, it came to me with faint trails on the blade. If that's the type of thing that bothers you...welcome to my world.
All black hardware, striking green/gold titanium scales. Fall Shut, Great Centering, mild (benchmade axis lock) blade play.
SV $225
​
Benchmade Bugout Heavily Modded 535. S30V Satin Blade
-Tons of Titanium in this puppy. Blue anodized (27.5V) Flytanium Crossfade scales
-MXG Gear Clip (my favorite for Benchmades)
-Satin Titanium Thumbstuds, and Backspacer
-Silver hardware for Pivot, screws, and Axis Bar
This knife came to me used, and sharpened unevenly, So I reprofiled it on the wicked edge -- Its now 18.5 Degrees Per side, and stupid sharp. I didn't lap it though, because once things get too shiny for me, I stop using them. I didn't want someone to inherit that "safe queen" ideal for these bugouts. (Ask me for pics of my user bugout like this one!!)
Lets call this a working edge--Ground to 3000 Grit, cuts phonebook paper pretty dang gud.
Centering is dead on, no blade play, fall shut. Faint snail trail on the blue scale, sadly :(
SV $225
Lastly,
Shirogorov F95 with Carbon Fiber Inlays. Old school, S90V Blade
-This is an older Shiro model, with barrel spacers, not a solid Ti backspacer.
-S90V Blade sharpened to a Mirror edge by the person who owned this before me
-MRBS, beautiful glide shut action typical of Shirogorovs. (A little faster action than my Quantum Gen 1)
-I have not disassembled it, though I believe it has been by previous owners. Not sure.
This F95 is a super gem, but I found my ideal Shiro in the F3NS, so I'm willing to let this one go. It's an old school Shiro which I love, and the action on it is just wonderful. But I can't keep it and continue to explore the knife world, so off it goes.
SV $900
​
And thats it! For now...
I am greatly interested in acquiring a TRM Shadow, and I'll look at fair trades for a Rosie. But if you want $1300 for yours, I can't buy it. I'll wait for it to come down. TV on the rosie would be around 950 or less, and I wont hike up my TV's past my SV.
Thanks for looking, and I appreciate you stopping by!
If you feel my prices are wrong, feel free to shoot me an offer! Also, I have MANY pictures of these knives during the time they've spent in my collection, so if you want more information, or just to see more, please send me a msg, I'll happily scour my photos and send some more along.
-Phiz

The Foundations of Humanity 7 (A Choice) - an NoP fanfic
​
Thank you u/SpacePaladin15 for establishing the Nature of Predators Universe, and for allowing Fanfics to flourish!
​
Memory transcription subject: Valek, Venlil-Human Partnership Program Participant
Date [standardized human time]: August 24th, 2136. Early evening
Door. Curtain. Button. Water. Curtain.
My mind swam in a torrent of thought and worry. Maeve promised me everything she told me was true, and this newest revelation was so haunting, for it to be false, a lie or a joke, would be a cruelty I had convinced myself to believe Maeve was not capable of. I sat down in the steaming water, and felt the heat dissipate my nerves and calm my mind. This was kept from us for a reason, I see that now. No other Venlil, except maybe our upper leadership, knew about this horror. Did they know? Do our leaders still trust Humans even after this? Does Tarva? Should I?
No. Come back. Find solid ground. This is not something that can be kept secret forever, other Venlil will face my choice, and I needed to choose. There has been no instance of Human-on-Venlil violence in the almost two months we have known each other, despite thousands of opportunities and even after instigation by Venlil. Maeve has repeatedly shown genuine care for me, even when, and especially when, no one is looking. The way her eyes shine when she laughs. The way I feel so much more than what I am when she listens. The way we fit together, mind and body; like Puzzle Pieces.
My instinct screamed against my ribcage. My ears searching for any exit. But it is my decision. I choose this. I choose to try to understand.
“I choose Maeve.”
Deep breath. And another. This is right. This is what I want. I reached for my Pad.
I think I’m ready to talk, can you come to the baths? I'm in the near corner on the left as you enter.
Ok! I’m on my way!
Enjoying my soak, but not wanting to have a chocolate ring on my face, I began my cleaning routine. Very thankful for the well-stocked bathing cabinet, I finally got the stain out of my salt-and-pepper velvet, then, while I was already in dirty water, I proceeded to clean the rest of me. I had the good sense to freshen up before coming to the station, but by now my body felt caked in musk from my constant blooming. I was glad to spend most of my time in the room, it would be embarrassing for another Venlil to see me like this.
I was fluffy-clean and finishing up, refilling the tub with fresh water for a leisurely soak, when I heard Maeve come in. After opening the curtain, I looked up to see her wearing her head covering and mask; my ears drooped in worry, but I thought it best not to address it.
“I just finished cleaning, but I think I’d like a soak. Would you like to take the next bath?” I asked, gesturing to the paired tub.
“I-I think I’m alright.” She mumbled, fidgeting with her mask, “If you’re not done I could go back to the room?”
“I asked you to come because I want you to be here. It’s ok, we’re alright.” I stepped out of the tub and, still dripping, grabbed Maeve’s hand and guided her to the side of my bath as I stepped back in. “You don't have to get in, but I’d like you to stay. And,” I dropped my voice and closed the curtain, “I’d like you to take off your mask and covering, please.”
I couldn't see her face, but the stiffening of her shoulders told me she was worried. “Please?”
A pause, then Maeve removed her mask and visor first, and I could see why she hesitated. Her eyes were puffy-red from crying and lips curled in clear anguish. Maeve told me that rejection was painful, but I never imagined this. Trying to hide my worry, I reached out to her face and pulled it to me, resting my snout against her cheek. “Thank you. I’m so sorry to cause you worry, and I would like to try again.”
Reaching over the tub I pulled a small stool beside it, and Maeve gratefully accepted the seat.
Settling into a comfortable position, I took the initiative to talk first. “Thank you for telling me about your people, and your world. If you'd like, I want to talk to you about mine.” Maeve nodded through shaking breaths, her recently-freed hair bobbing in her enthusiasm. “I’m from The Grove. Closest city is Hidden Plains, two stops sun-left on The Ring from the capital and half a claw’s bus ride; It's a farming town. The grove it was named after is long gone, swallowed by the town, but we were still surrounded by trees. The ride there and back is my favorite place to be, with the road winding through old growth. The trees were so incredible! Once you got out of the orchards, you'd see massive trunks, as thick as a house! I'd have to lay on the seat and look up to see any branches, they sat so high. Sometimes, after a good rain, mists would weave through the forest, and I could see sunbeams shining through. I remember sometimes I’d see a predator, in a tree or clearing. The first couple times I’d panic in my seat, and once I saw one look at the bus! I woke up at the station, that time.”
Maeve couldn't hide a sniffling giggle at that, which delighted me. Chuckling, I responded “yeah ha ha, it's very funny… it is though. After the first few times, I realized that they ran from the road more often than not. The only time I ever saw one even near it, they were trying to cross over, and ran off before we got close. I think I knew, around then, that predators didn't really… hunt us. I checked, and attacks on Venlil did happen, but only a pawful every year, and it had been decades since an attack in a city or town. It’s like they know we are dangerous and avoid us. I think it's one of the reasons why I joined this program. I wanted to see what Humans would be like: would they run or would they hunt? What would a smart predator want from us? And the answer, every time, from every Venlil I’ve asked has always been: a friend.”
“You are a good friend Maeve. I won’t deny the… complicated past of humanity. But you are not your ancestors. You are my friend. And I’d like to keep it that way. Ok?”
Mostly calmed down, but still sniffling, Maeve took a deep breath and answered, “Ok. Ok, Valek.” a few more deep breaths and she found her voice, “I think I’ll take that bath now”
Laughing together, she stood up and moved to the other tub while I pressed the fill button. I knew humans preferred modesty, so I raised the rigid privacy screen between us. “My family grows their own strain of Starberries you know? Ours are sweeter and lighter, best used for desserts. Our berry patches are lined up in long troughs, which made running much easier. I was the fastest kid in town, ya know!”
Through a bubbling laugh, “I bet you were!” I could hear her lowering herself into the water, with a contented hum following closely behind. “I needed this, Valek. Thank you… I’d love to try those berries sometime.”
“You will.” I promised, my tail swishing under the water.
“Did you still live in The Grove when you joined the program?” she asked; I could hear water sloshing as she started her own bathing routine.
“Not by then, no. I was actually going to Hidden Plains University for natural sciences! I wanted to find out why predators were more common in some places than others, as well as research whether coexistence is feasible, or even possible. I… didn’t do well in that class. Most of my peers were exterminators-to-be and the class was geared toward that. Honestly, I basically dropped out and asked to join the UN once we talked for a couple weeks.”
“What??” Maeve asked, aghast.
“They wouldn't have me. I got the letter a few days before leaving for the meetup. So, once this is done,” my eyes glossed over, tail curling around me, “I guess I’m… going back home. Everyone needs farmers, and we have a good plot out there. I’ll be fine. I can start my own research in the forest! And… it will be good to run again.”
A moment’s silence, “I’m sorry, Valek. But I'm glad you’re not giving up. I don’t know if you know this, but we have entire sciences dedicated to specific predators. Mostly they fall under the umbrella of Ecology, but so many people specialize so far that they, together, make an amazing body of knowledge.”
“Really? Like what?”
“Well the best way to explain it is how it's built into our education. The specifics vary between countries or cultures, but in general it works like this: your family teaches you enough to go to school, you go to public school, basically until adulthood, to learn the fundamentals of everything humans have ever known. Then, you go to College to learn the complexities of specific subjects. You get your Masters by being successful, and often better, than your peers on harder subjects. Then you get your Doctorate by defending your Thesis. This whole path can take more than 30 years, almost a third a human lifetime, to complete. Your thesis is one piece of new knowledge: something that you have researched and cataloged for however long it takes you to say ‘this is true, and this is worth knowing’. Some people work on their thesis for years, even decades, before they finally defend it well enough.”
“Wow,” I whistled, “does every human do this?”
“Oh, gosh no. But enough do. Many people stop sometime before the end, satisfied with the knowledge they have gained. Most people just focus on what is useful; what is needed to be prosperous. And with that, they become really good at one or two things. Some people are good at languages; they push themselves, and become fluent in around 20 languages, without a translator! Some people become really good at talking; they argue laws, and help governments communicate for peace. Some people become really good at throwing a ball, and can throw it over 160 kilometers per hour.”
“See, now I know you're lying. That's fast enough to knock down a Mazic!”
“It’s true! It’s true that most races can do something better than the average human; for example, I’m sure most Venlil can outrun a human in a sprint. But for anything you can think of, I bet there is at least one human who can do it better. That's the power of specialization.”
I could hear Maeve get out of the tub, and waited a moment, “What do you specialize in?”
“I don’t; or at least, I’m not trying to. But if I had to choose one thing that I think I do better than other people… I would like it to be…”
Strong arms found their way around my torso, coming from behind me and dodging my periphery. With a yelp, I was pulled from the water and locked in a hug against a toweled body.
“Hugs!”
Instinct took over as I thrashed my arms and legs, my tail lashing against her firm stance, screaming Venlil expletives. That I, in hindsight, rather hoped were not captured by the translator. “Maeve, put me down! Stars above, I almost had a heart attack!” I cried petulantly, while my bloom told my tale.
Maeve was still cackling while we made our way to the drying corridor, Maeve’s clothes over her shoulder. I was so glad to see her smile again, my tail was frantic the whole walk to our room. Maeve told me about her time in school; how she never really got on with the competition. I told her about that one time I drifted off in class and gave the wrong date when called; we had moved on to the Iftali Schism, when I was still thinking about the Farsul Great Retirement. It was… nice, seeing where we were so similar, when there have been so many differences. But those differences brought them to the stars, on their own merit, and found us.
Reaching the room, I thought to go for an easy one this time. “How do humans entertain themselves? The way some Venlil say it, you’d think every human subsists on Bloodsport and cub sacrifices."
Chuckling along with me, she replied, "No, no baby sacrifices. And we haven't done duels to the death for at least 300 years-" -- "-wait, what?-" -- "-but we do have a lot of fun with conflict and competition. Close your eyes, I wanna get changed. We use the term Sport to refer to competitive play, and these days most of the money is in Major League Gaming, but that's very recent. Historically sports were very physical; human players using their specifically trained human bodies in a real space. Most games fell under ‘work with a team to take a thing to a place better than the other team’, with a heavy emphasis on teamwork and effective strategy. What about you? What do Venlil do for fun?”
I could hear rustling fabric from in front of me, and quick movements, “We Make, and we Talk. New construction projects and other public works are always on the broadcast, there's always something happening somewhere on the planet. Walking around the city it's not unusual to see community art or writing to make something big. We even have giant sandpits for kids to build in! It's cleaner than letting them play in the mud. But my favorite were the Forums! Comfortable parks, or open concrete, anywhere there's open space you'll see a bunch of venlil talking about something or other. Normally just gossip, but sometimes work, or what restaurants have new stuff. Before I got on the ship, all the buzz was about you guys, of course.”
“You can open your eyes now. And what did you do, Valek?”
Opening my eyes, I saw that Maeve had changed into a two-piece pajama set. The bottoms were dark with a colorful, apparently random, pattern. Some shapes looked like a badge, some just a ball of hair. The sleeves of her top were cut at the shoulder, and a group of three uniformed humans standing on a stage were painted on the front.
“Well the gossip was always fun. I liked talking to the Exterminators; they knew the most about, and had the most experience with predators. There was a lot of… unpleasantness to sift through, but I took what I could get without getting Diagnosed. I really enjoyed painting! There's a piece on the corner of the State building that I did; you can't really see it with everyone else’s work, but I know it's there.”
“That's so cool! We put a lot of emphasis on art too, but it's normally a more personal experience; one artist with big works. It’s getting late, but we could try going to the rec room tomorrow; they may have drawing materials?”
Starting to feel my own fatigue, I struggled through a yawn, “I’d really like that.”
We started our resting routine, I had already bathed so I just settled in; Maeve brushed her teeth and made her bed before climbing in. I used my pad to dim the lights.
“What are you doing after this, Maeve?”
A moment for thought, then, “Honestly I hadn't thought that far ahead. I figured this would be a small thing: make a new friend, exchange some letters. Humans have been doing pen-pals for over a century, it’s nothing new. At the time it didn't seem… real…”
She continued, “But I’m in space. My new… friend," she giggled, "is a whole different life form. I’m here and this is real, and it’s… incredible! I don’t know what I’m doing after this, but I will never forget what this is. I’ll never forget you.”
…
…
“Hey Maeve?”
“Hmm?”
“... can I come up?”
Silence. Longer than existence, but shorter than a breath.
“... I think I’d like that.” The whisper came from above me.
I froze, my breath in my throat. I hadn't honestly expected a Yes. Pulling the sheet from me and grabbing my pillow, I stood up and climbed up to the top bunk; Maeve was facing away from me this time. Bringing my full body up, I stretched out on my side beside her, hopeful the dimmed lights hid my quickly brightening snout.
“Wh…What if we did more of this? After the program?”
Maeve lifted and turned her head. Not enough to see me, but I clearly had her attention, “What do you mean?”
“B-Before the meetup, I was talking to other Venlil on Bleat, others in the program, and… to say it’s a success would be a massive understatement. I’m certain we aren't the only pair who want to keep in contact or maybe… cohabitate?”
Maeve turned her body at that, and was mostly on her back, looking at the ceiling.
“That’s… not something to rush into. I want to sleep on it, please.”
I nodded, and understanding the conversation was over, rolled over to sleep. This, however, was not Maeve’s desired outcome.
“Oh, no you don’t.” Her hand was at my hip, and she pulled to roll me on my back. Maeve was facing me now, and my eye caught the glint in hers.
"That's not a 'No'. That's a 'this is serious and we should think about it'. I try not to make big decisions in the same bed with a boy I like."
Maeve pulled herself towards me, her right arm under my back and hand at my side, her left scratching the base of my chin; I heard my tail slowly thumping the bed at our feet.
"For the moment though, I hope you sleep well. Goodnight Valek."
"Goodnight Maeve."

Got married on Halloween at an outdoor venue in Wisconsin. The catering company is one of only a few that works with this venue. Paid off everything before the wedding day, day of everything goes great. Fast forward to today we get en email saying we owe them another $700 for the chairs for the ceremony. All tables and chairs were provided by the caterers and it was known through the whole process this was an outdoor ceremony and an indoor reception. Can they come back after so long and claim that the chairs weren't part of the price charged for tables and chairs? My feeling is they may have forgotten to put them on when they charged us and are now trying to recoup the money for their mistake.

Video: http://csg001-harm01.canadacentral.cloudapp.azure.com/00298/Harmony/en/PowerBrowsePowerBrowserV2/20230313/-1/15103?viewmode=3
Debates (Contains verbatim): https://docs.legassembly.sk.ca/legdocs/Legislative%20Assembly/Hansard/29L3S/20230313Debates.pdf
Orders of the day: https://docs.legassembly.sk.ca/legdocs/Legislative%20Assembly/Orders/29L3S/230313Orders.pdf
Minutes: https://docs.legassembly.sk.ca/legdocs/Legislative%20Assembly/Minutes/29L3S/230313Minutes.pdf
​
INTRODUCING GUESTS
Ag Safety Week recognized, and Saskatchewan Headquartered Oil Producers, or as they’re known as SHOP in attendance. Nothing really noteworthy.
PRESENTING PETITIONS (Starts 1:45:00)
Betty Nippi-Albright (NDP)
The first petition is about the proposed peat moss mine near La Ronge by Quebec-based Lambert Peat Moss. Her constituents are concerned about damage to habitat, including woodland caribou, traplines and drinking water sources. The petitioners request that the government protects the boreal forest and rejects the development.
Fred Bradshaw (SaskParty)
accuses the Liberal-NDP federal government of infringing on the province's constitutional rights and impeding its potential to provide resources to the world market. The signatories request that the Legislative Assembly calls upon the Government of Saskatchewan to implement Saskatchewan-first policies and legislation.
\NOTE: The federal NDP and Liberals have a confidence and supply agreement. All are elected officials that are representing their bases, and working together. To my knowledge, all court cases against the federal government regarding the constitution have failed. This appears to be repeated daily without merit.*
https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/confidence-and-supply
Vickie Mowat (NDP)
Calls for the development of a suicide prevention strategy, suicide rates remain high, particularly among Indigenous people and in the north. The petitioners ask that the government works with community organizations and leaders in the North to develop Saskatchewan's suicide prevention strategy. Suicide is second leading cause of death for youth aged 15-34. 1913 suicides in SK over 10, indigineous rates are 4x higher. Immediate call for the province to work with leaders in the north to create a strategy.
Nathanial Tweed (NDP)
Petition calling on the Government of Saskatchewan to introduce legislation to prohibit conversion therapy. The undersigned residents would like to bring to our attention that conversion therapy is a discredited and abusive practice which attempts to actively change the sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression of an individual; the practice of conversion therapy or reparative therapy is seriously harmful to individuals and is opposed by the psychological and psychiatric associations across North America and the world.
Jennifer Bowes (NDP)
Saskatchewan has some of the highest 12-20 year old pregnancy rates, and she calls for universal access to birth control. Cites this saves money on reproductive health care.
STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS
Erike Ritchie (NDP)
Acknowledges a constituent for winning a medal for activism in suicide prevention. Notes that he tried to meet with the premier after the suicide prevention bill by the SaskParty government, but eventually passed in 2021.
Daryl Harrison (SaskParty)
Talks about Ag Week and brings up mental health and Sask Farm Stress Line.
Nicole Sarauer (NDP)
Praises Quan Ngon Vietnamese Restaurant as local entrepreneur.
David Buckingham (SaskParty)
Raising awareness for incurable myeloma patients in Sask, we get 80 a year, and welcomes a constituent that received treatment and therapies.
Delbert Kirsch (SaskParty)
Speaks about Commonwealth Day and the importance of the shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law that keep the Commonwealth nations united. Talks about democracy and human rights.
Fred Bradshaw (SaskParty)
New television production called Guardians of the North, which showcases the stories of Saskatchewan’s wildfire and emergency responders. He emphasizes the collaborative work between emergency service providers and encourages viewers to tune in to learn more about these brave men and women.
Colleen Young (SaskParty)
Reports on the employment numbers in Saskatchewan, with 2,600 more jobs added since last month and 9,400 more since February 2022. She notes that this is the 23rd straight month of year-over-year growth and highlights the increase in employment in various sectors, including professional, scientific, and technical services, health care and social assistance, and accommodation, food, and educational services. She expresses confidence that the government will meet its goal of creating 100,000 new jobs by the end of the decade.
\NOTE: The unemployment in February was 4.3, and rolled over to 5 for March. There was a reduction in full time employment. She is also citing year over year, and there were pandemic restrictions affecting business this time last year. I know around 500 were SLGA workers no longer employed.*
Source: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=1410028703&pickMembers%5B0%5D=3.1&pickMembers%5B1%5D=4.1&cubeTimeFrame.startMonth=03&cubeTimeFrame.startYear=2023&referencePeriods=20230301%2C20230301
QUESTION PERIOD
LEADERS DEBATE: Carla Beck vs Scott Moe (2:02:28)
Beck, criticises the Premier for his government's failure to create jobs and notes that Saskatchewan has the worst job creation record in the country since the Premier came to office in 2018. She asks when the Premier will take responsibility for this record of failure. Moe, responds by pointing out that various forecasts predict nation-leading growth, including job creation, GDP, and exports. He emphasises that his government is focused on growth that works for everyone and provides opportunities for Saskatchewan people, but doesn’t disagree with his last place economic record. Beck argues that the Premier's focus on the future ignores his past record, which she claims is dead last in the country on the economy and job creation. She questions whether Saskatchewan people deserve better than a Premier who talks a good game but fails to deliver good-paying jobs. The Premier counters that population and job growth have improved over the last decade, with 1.21 million people in the province and 2,600 jobs added in February alone, citing the pre-1991 NDP record, and offering future solutions, not results. He highlights the low unemployment rate, which is the second lowest among all provinces in Canada.
\NOTE: She’s right, he does have the worst numbers in the country over the past five years. References to statcan.*
\While our unemployment rates are low, we have the second lowest interprovincial migration, which is decreasing annually. Population growth is being driven by international migration, and we have the lowest retention rate in the country.* https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=1710002201
FUNDING FOR POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION (2:06:14)
Carla Beck vs Gordon Wyant
Beck accuses the government of underfunding public schools and post-secondary institutions, leading to a shortage of skilled workers in the province. She asks the Premier if he realises that his actions have contributed to the problem. Wyant denies that there have been any cuts to the University of Regina and states that there is a historic four-year funding agreement with institutions. He expresses confidence in the university's president and executive team to work through their budget challenges without cutting programs or classes.
\NOTE: The President of the University Faculty Assoc attended the Leg March 9th to discuss the cuts and ask for a meeting with Wyant to prevent the cutting, we don’t know if that happened or had meaningful outcome. They can deny cuts, but if they didn’t cut, why is the UofR cutting? If anyone wants to find the budget line items, I’ll link them.*
PRIVATE HEALTHCARE
Carla Beck and Vickie Mowat vs Payl Merriman (2:07:51)
Centered on the province's private-pay health care scheme. The government has passed a bill allowing residents to pay out of pocket for MRI and CT scans. However, Health Canada announced that it would withhold funding for Saskatchewan's health care system because the province had violated the Canada Health Act by introducing the private-pay system. Beck, asked the Premier to abandon the scheme, citing a 63% increase in average wait times for MRIs since its introduction. Merriman defended the policy, stating that it had provided 15,000 scans paid for by Saskatchewan people, which had reduced wait times for surgeries. He argued that the federal government was taking away tools for the province to address health care pressures. Mowat alleging that the government was breaking the law, while Merriman accused the NDP of being stuck in outdated ideology, insisted that the policy had received overwhelming support from Saskatchewan voters, while the NDP argued that the government's policy had drawn resources away from the public system, leading to longer wait times for all. Merriman insists that the people of Saskatchewan want private for pay healthcare, and accuses NDP of protecting public care as an ideology, and states “ We take our direction from the people of Saskatchewan who had the privilege of putting us in here, Mr. Speaker, certainly not from Justin Trudeau.”, and he says that a few times. Mowat insists that funding the public system is an option, but the government is refusing. Merrimen says it’s ok for them to do this because other provinces are also doing the same thing, and claims that the NDP started private care. Conway asks: Who benefits from this privatisation, he didn’t answer the question, she goes on the claim the took $26,000 from private MRI companies. She also asks him to take big corporation money out of politics. He deflects and doesn’t answer these questions, uses strawman arguments, again cites the federal government. This is worth watching.
\*NOTES: Patients in SK waiting longer than 12 months has increased 106% since 2010. All metrics show that this system has failed worse year after year.*
https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/accessing-health-care-services/surgery/surgical-performance-and-wait-times
Evidence that the $742k in clawbacks were due to Health Canada Act infringements.
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/health-care-system/canada-health-care-system-medicare/canada-health-act/new-initiatives.html
Donation claims are verifiable, I didn’t add them up: https://www.elections.sk.ca/reports-data/candidate-political-party-finances/fiscal-period-returns/2021-returns/saskparty/
Additionally, they didn’t run on a campaign of replacing public health care with for profit private, so they don’t have a mandate to do so. Merriman claims that they do have that mandate, but I can’t find any election information where they proposed this. I couldn’t find data showing the NDP had private care, but I’ll link it if anyone has a source.
FOOD PRICING
Trent Wortherspoon vs David Marit 2:22:00
Wotherspoon expressed concern that the prices of meat were rising, but producers weren't seeing those dollars, as they were being taken by big out-of-province anticompetitive meat packers and supply chains. He called on the government to investigate food and meat pricing to deliver fairness for producers and consumers, citing drought and no more money going to producers.
The Minister of Agriculture, Marit, attributed the rise in food prices to the carbon tax, which he claimed was a tax on every portion of food grown in the province, says this is due to Trudeau.
Wotherspoon, criticised the minister for being weak for the producers and consumers of the province on this file and standing up for the out-of-province, anticompetitive meat packers instead of the producers in the province. He referenced former Premier Brad Wall's statement that hearings would never hurt, and the provincial governments, especially in the West, would line up in favour of having a look at this. He urged the government to act for producers and consumers and investigate what is going on with meat prices.
OVERDOSE NUMBERS - MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTIONS
Vicki Mowat vs Everette Hindley 2:25:06
In this conversation, Ms. Mowat, a member of the legislative assembly, expresses concern over the increasing number of overdose deaths in the province, with 103 suspected overdose deaths in just Jan and Feb this year, compared to 2016 were there were 109 for the entire year. She criticises the government for not having a plan to address the issue and asks when they will deliver a mental health and addictions strategy that works for everyone.
Hindley (Minister of Mental Health and Addictions), acknowledges the severity of the situation and states that the government is making record investments in this area. He mentions that they are close to announcing the first phase of additional treatment-space capacity to provide more access to long-term rehabilitation and recovery options across the province. He also mentions that they are investing in overdose outreach teams and expanding access to naloxone across the province. He says they are making future plans to address these problems, such as operational overdose outreach teams, drug-checking devices, and expanding access to naloxone. He also mentions that additional investments will be made in next week's budget.
\NOTES: Budget 2023: Mental Health and Addictions will receive a significant increase of $9.5 million in 2022-23, including $8 million for targeted initiatives to improve services and supports. Included in this funding will be the first of the 150 new addiction treatment spaces committed to in the 2021 Speech from the Throne. A $1.5 million increase will annualize initiatives first introduced in the 2021-22 Budget.*
https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/news-and-media/2022/march/23/budget-2022-23-delivers-record-investments-in-saskatchewans-health-care-system
Budget 2020-2021 was $458M.
https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/news-and-media/2021/april/06/budget-2021-22-continues-to-build-upon-record-investments-in-saskatchewan-health-care
MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS
Government Action on Immigration
Jeremy Harrison (SaskParty) and Trent Wotherspoon (NDP) 2:28:01
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has agreed to amend federal regulations and the Canada-Saskatchewan Immigration Agreement to give Saskatchewan the sole authority over assessing a candidate's ability to economically establish and their intent to reside. He expects 18,000 newcomers annually.
Wotherspoon praises the government for this negotiation with the federal government. He presses them to improve retention of migrants, 40% leave within 5 years. Previously we had a 78-80% retention rate. Ontario is over 90%. Also cites class sizes, the need for English as a second language. Otherwise he is in full support.
\NOTE: We have an affordable housing crisis. They haven’t addressed the current situation, and are pushing harder against it. If anyone has seen a plan, i’ll link it.*
MESSAGE FROM HIS MAJESTY KING CHARLES III 2:35:36
Randy Weekes (Speaker of the House)
I don’t care about this at all; the verbatim is in the debates link at the top, or you can watch it.
ORDERS OF THE DAY (2:39:09)
Bill No. 103 — The Accessible Saskatchewan Act 2:40:35
Meara Conway (NDP)
Second reading. Ms. Conway, the designated critic for disability issues on the opposition side, spoke in favour of the bill but identified several concerns raised by the disability and disability support communities, including the lack of prioritisation of the lived experience of people living with disability in the advisory board, the lack of detailed plan for rolling the standards out, the lack of teeth or mechanisms to ensure compliance, the lack of sufficient scope of the bill, and the absence of detailed plans on how service and procurement standards will apply to distinct areas such as healthcare, education, and housing. Conway also discussed other jurisdictions that have done a good job of ensuring that the burden of making the private sector more accessible does not fall solely on small businesses, and how this could improve the outcomes of the private sector, especially with a greater clientele and a better reputation within the community. She did give credit to the SaskParty government, but wants them to improve what’s lacking, including the impact of the loss of the STC.
Bill No. 106 — The Police Amendment Act, 2022 2:40:00
Nicole Sarauer (NDP)
Sarauer, raises concerns about the lack of consultation with leaders in policing in Saskatchewan and the government's desire to expand the definition of what a type of member would be, create an alternate governing structure beyond traditional police boards, and give themselves more flexibility to intervene in circumstances where they're not happy with how municipal police services are operating. She also criticises the government for disrespecting the work and independence of police forces in Saskatchewan, and for announcing the creation of the marshals service, a new policing body from scratch, rather than properly and adequately funding the RCMP, as they have requested many times. She also cites the take over of Leg security, and how other places do the same, but they aren’t democracies. Relates the term “Marshalls” (referring to new police services) as American terms, which is an interesting notice.
Unanimously YEA by SaskParty and Wilson (independant), NDP unanimous No against. Passed.
*NOTE: Background of partisan security at leg. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatchewan/sask-legislative-security-1.6448723
Also note that this was never campaigned on, there is no mandate for this action.
Bill No. 107 — The Provincial Protective Services Act 3:00:35
Nicole Sarauser (NDP)
Proposes to centralise different policing bodies under one umbrella. Sarauer raised concerns about the legislation's operation, specifically who will be covered and who will not be covered.
Bill No. 108 — The Pension Benefits Amendment Act, 2022 3:02:02
Doyle Vermette (NDP)
Vermette notes that many people in the province have a pension benefit, whether they work for the government, different agencies, or the private sector. The aim of the pension benefit is to ensure that individuals have a secure and comfortable retirement. The government has introduced 31 new fees and taxes on seniors who are pensioners, which could impact their ability to make ends meet. He believes that it is important to ensure that pensions are taken care of and looked after so that people can afford to live and pay their bills.
He acknowledges that there may be changes in times, both federally and provincially, which might require amendments to pension benefits, and wants to ensure that officials and the minister explain the reasons behind the proposed changes and the powers that are being given to certain individuals. He notes that the opposition and the critic will be asking questions about the changes to ensure that pensions are protected, and seniors are looked after.
He notes that many Saskatchewan residents do not have a defined pension and are struggling to make ends meet. He believes that it is important to have a fair wage to be able to provide for one's family. He notes that many people are working two or more jobs just to pay their bills, and the government is raising power rates and fees, making it even more difficult for citizens who are struggling to pay rent to cover their monthly bills.
Bill No. 109 — The Trespass to Property Amendment Act, 2022 3:07:14
Vickie Mowatt (NDP)
Mowat expressed her disappointment with the proposed changes in the legislation, which prohibits the federal government from trespassing on private land. She argued that the government is using this incident for political purposes and treating its own citizens irresponsibly just to score political points. She also expressed her concern over the violent and hateful comments made on social media hosted by the government. She noted she believes in rights and dignity of landowners and wants to work with stakeholders and protect all parties.
Bill No. 116 — The Plant Health Act 3:10:18
Betty Nippii-Albright (NDP)
She highlights that the minister can declare any animal, insect, or disease that is dangerous to plants or crops as a pest and appoint pest control officers to take care of it, order the destruction of at-risk plants, and declare a state of emergency. She also notes that the ministry must pay for the destroyed crops. Municipalities can appoint pest control officers and order compliance, but the ministry's regulations supersede the municipal bylaws.
Ms. Nippi-Albright expresses her concern about pests causing food scarcity and price increase, emphasising the importance of preventing and containing any pests that threaten farmers' crops. She raises questions about the lack of collaboration between the government or the ministry and municipalities in making changes to legislation that could potentially impact them. She is interested in knowing how municipalities, First Nations, and Métis communities are being engaged in this process, especially since there are many Indigenous farmers in the community.
The Saskatchewan Firearms Act 3:13:31
Trent Wotherspoon (NDP)
Wotherspoon from Regina Rosemont expressed his concerns with the overreach of the federal government on firearms bans and actions, and accuses them of having a poor understanding of this front in our province. He emphasised the practical relationship that Saskatchewan people have with firearms, including the importance of long guns to heritage activities like hunting and trapping, the significance of firearms to First Nations and Indigenous peoples who exercise their treaty rights, and the practical tool that firearms provide on a farm. Mentioned that Premier Romanow's government never supported the gun registry and stood up for firearm owners in Saskatchewan. He urged that First Nations and Métis people should be consulted on this legislation because they have a practical relationship with long guns in the province. He is personally a hunter and a member of the Sask Wildlife Federation.
The Warrant Compliance Act 3:17:46
Nathanial Tweed (NDP)
Legislation aimed at providing more resources and authority for warrant enforcement in Saskatchewan, particularly for violent offenders. Seeks to establish an investigation unit within the ministry that would investigate and issue orders to social-spending ministries to cut benefits for violent offenders with outstanding warrants. These benefits can be suspended or reduced by the benefits administrator, but they may exercise judgement if cutting benefits would cause significant hardship. The bill also allows the investigation unit to demand location information of violent offenders from any government institution.
While the bill is supported as an additional tool to apprehend violent offenders, concerns were raised regarding the lack of definitions for key terms such as "prolific violent offenders" and "significant hardship." There were also concerns about the impact of the ministry's orders on families and children caught in the criminal justice system, as well as the powers of the ministry to share information and demand location information. The member also expressed concerns about tough-on-crime legislation intersecting with social programs and the need to address the root causes of crime, such as poverty, homelessness, and mental health.
Bill No. 122 — The Saskatchewan Revenue Agency Act 3:21:40
Jennifer Bowes (NDP)
Creates a new Crown corporation. Expressed concern about the vagueness of the bill and the lack of clear indication as to why the government is creating its own revenue agency, which appears to be redundant and wasteful. The member criticised the government for spending more and more of Saskatchewan people's hard-earned dollars on petty legislation that does not have meaningful value to the majority of the people in the province. She wants to know why they are creating this bill, they don’t have a mandate for it, and they have no meaningful value. The opposition did not support the bill. Fringe and out of touch.
Bill No. 124 — The Alcohol and Gaming Regulation Amendment Act 3:24:30
Betty Nippi-Albright (NDP)
Proposes to give municipalities and regional parks the authority to designate outdoor public spaces as drinking areas and also allowing special occasion liquor licences to serve homemade beer and wine. The re-corking laws are also being modernised. The Member from Saskatoon Centre, Ms. Nippi-Albright, expresses her views on the Bill. She points out that there have been mixed reviews and responses from stakeholders regarding the Bill's impact on municipalities. Municipalities have raised concerns about the added responsibilities this Bill would bring. She also raises concerns about the potential for increased risks associated with alcohol consumption, such as drunk driving and sexual assault, particularly in Indigenous communities where alcohol has caused havoc. She notes the significance of consulting with those who will be impacted by the legislation.
Bill No. 125 — The Cannabis Control Amendment Act, 2022 3:29:14
Jennifer Bowes (NDP)
Proposes the creation of First Nations cannabis authorities to regulate on-reserve cannabis retail and distribution. The authorities will have the same regulatory powers as off-reserve, including setting prices, hiring minors, issuing permits, and imposing fines. The difference is that these First Nations authorities will not have to apply for permits from the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority. She spoke Saskatoon University spoke in favor of the bill, stating that it makes sense to turn over jurisdiction to First Nations. She also expressed hope for more relinquishing of settler jurisdiction over First Nations in the province, specifically in child welfare. The Assembly agreed to adjourn debate on the bill. Calls for more consultation.
Bill No. 126 — The Summary Offences Procedure Amendment Act 3:31:55
Matt Love (NDP)
Changes included in the amendments will benefit First Nations communities by allowing them to enforce their own laws and bylaws on reserve and move away from required court appearances for certain small convictions. He expresses hope that this will be a positive step towards self-government and self-autonomy for Indigenous nations in Saskatchewan.
This will be archived on SaskPoli\**. I am open to linking missed or relevant factual information provided, as well as correcting inaccuracies.**\**

Video: http://csg001-harm01.canadacentral.cloudapp.azure.com/00298/Harmony/en/PowerBrowsePowerBrowserV2/20230313/-1/15103?viewmode=3
Debates (Contains verbatim): https://docs.legassembly.sk.ca/legdocs/Legislative%20Assembly/Hansard/29L3S/20230313Debates.pdf
Orders of the day: https://docs.legassembly.sk.ca/legdocs/Legislative%20Assembly/Orders/29L3S/230313Orders.pdf
Minutes: https://docs.legassembly.sk.ca/legdocs/Legislative%20Assembly/Minutes/29L3S/230313Minutes.pdf
INTRODUCING GUESTS
Ag Safety Week recognized, and Saskatchewan Headquartered Oil Producers, or as they’re known as SHOP in attendance. Nothing really noteworthy.
PRESENTING PETITIONS (Starts 1:45:00)
Betty Nippi-Albright (NDP)
The first petition is about the proposed peat moss mine near La Ronge by Quebec-based Lambert Peat Moss. Her constituents are concerned about damage to habitat, including woodland caribou, traplines and drinking water sources. The petitioners request that the government protects the boreal forest and rejects the development.
Fred Bradshaw (SaskParty)
accuses the Liberal-NDP federal government of infringing on the province's constitutional rights and impeding its potential to provide resources to the world market. The signatories request that the Legislative Assembly calls upon the Government of Saskatchewan to implement Saskatchewan-first policies and legislation.
\NOTE: The federal NDP and Liberals have a confidence and supply agreement. All are elected officials that are representing their bases, and working together. To my knowledge, all court cases against the federal government regarding the constitution have failed. This appears to be repeated daily without merit.*
https://www.collinsdictionary.com/dictionary/english/confidence-and-supply
Vickie Mowat (NDP)
Calls for the development of a suicide prevention strategy, suicide rates remain high, particularly among Indigenous people and in the north. The petitioners ask that the government works with community organizations and leaders in the North to develop Saskatchewan's suicide prevention strategy. Suicide is second leading cause of death for youth aged 15-34. 1913 suicides in SK over 10, indigineous rates are 4x higher. Immediate call for the province to work with leaders in the north to create a strategy.
Nathanial Tweed (NDP)
Petition calling on the Government of Saskatchewan to introduce legislation to prohibit conversion therapy. The undersigned residents would like to bring to our attention that conversion therapy is a discredited and abusive practice which attempts to actively change the sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression of an individual; the practice of conversion therapy or reparative therapy is seriously harmful to individuals and is opposed by the psychological and psychiatric associations across North America and the world.
Jennifer Bowes (NDP)
Saskatchewan has some of the highest 12-20 year old pregnancy rates, and she calls for universal access to birth control. Cites this saves money on reproductive health care.
STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS
Erike Ritchie (NDP)
Acknowledges a constituent for winning a medal for activism in suicide prevention. Notes that he tried to meet with the premier after the suicide prevention bill by the SaskParty government, but eventually passed in 2021.
Daryl Harrison (SaskParty)
Talks about Ag Week and brings up mental health and Sask Farm Stress Line.
Nicole Sarauer (NDP)
Praises Quan Ngon Vietnamese Restaurant as local entrepreneur.
David Buckingham (SaskParty)
Raising awareness for incurable myeloma patients in Sask, we get 80 a year, and welcomes a constituent that received treatment and therapies.
Delbert Kirsch (SaskParty)
Speaks about Commonwealth Day and the importance of the shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law that keep the Commonwealth nations united. Talks about democracy and human rights.
Fred Bradshaw (SaskParty)
New television production called Guardians of the North, which showcases the stories of Saskatchewan’s wildfire and emergency responders. He emphasizes the collaborative work between emergency service providers and encourages viewers to tune in to learn more about these brave men and women.
Colleen Young (SaskParty)
Reports on the employment numbers in Saskatchewan, with 2,600 more jobs added since last month and 9,400 more since February 2022. She notes that this is the 23rd straight month of year-over-year growth and highlights the increase in employment in various sectors, including professional, scientific, and technical services, health care and social assistance, and accommodation, food, and educational services. She expresses confidence that the government will meet its goal of creating 100,000 new jobs by the end of the decade.
\NOTE: The unemployment in February was 4.3, and rolled over to 5 for March. There was a reduction in full time employment. She is also citing year over year, and there were pandemic restrictions affecting business this time last year. I know around 500 were SLGA workers no longer employed.*
Source: https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=1410028703&pickMembers%5B0%5D=3.1&pickMembers%5B1%5D=4.1&cubeTimeFrame.startMonth=03&cubeTimeFrame.startYear=2023&referencePeriods=20230301%2C20230301
QUESTION PERIOD
LEADERS DEBATE: Carla Beck vs Scott Moe (2:02:28)
Beck, criticises the Premier for his government's failure to create jobs and notes that Saskatchewan has the worst job creation record in the country since the Premier came to office in 2018. She asks when the Premier will take responsibility for this record of failure. Moe, responds by pointing out that various forecasts predict nation-leading growth, including job creation, GDP, and exports. He emphasises that his government is focused on growth that works for everyone and provides opportunities for Saskatchewan people, but doesn’t disagree with his last place economic record. Beck argues that the Premier's focus on the future ignores his past record, which she claims is dead last in the country on the economy and job creation. She questions whether Saskatchewan people deserve better than a Premier who talks a good game but fails to deliver good-paying jobs. The Premier counters that population and job growth have improved over the last decade, with 1.21 million people in the province and 2,600 jobs added in February alone, citing the pre-1991 NDP record, and offering future solutions, not results. He highlights the low unemployment rate, which is the second lowest among all provinces in Canada.
\NOTE: She’s right, he does have the worst numbers in the country over the past five years. References to statcan.*
\While our unemployment rates are low, we have the second lowest interprovincial migration, which is decreasing annually. Population growth is being driven by international migration, and we have the lowest retention rate in the country.* https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=1710002201
FUNDING FOR POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION (2:06:14)
Carla Beck vs Gordon Wyant
Beck accuses the government of underfunding public schools and post-secondary institutions, leading to a shortage of skilled workers in the province. She asks the Premier if he realises that his actions have contributed to the problem. Wyant denies that there have been any cuts to the University of Regina and states that there is a historic four-year funding agreement with institutions. He expresses confidence in the university's president and executive team to work through their budget challenges without cutting programs or classes.
\NOTE: The President of the University Faculty Assoc attended the Leg March 9th to discuss the cuts and ask for a meeting with Wyant to prevent the cutting, we don’t know if that happened or had meaningful outcome. They can deny cuts, but if they didn’t cut, why is the UofR cutting? If anyone wants to find the budget line items, I’ll link them.*
PRIVATE HEALTHCARE
Carla Beck and Vickie Mowat vs Payl Merriman (2:07:51)
Centered on the province's private-pay health care scheme. The government has passed a bill allowing residents to pay out of pocket for MRI and CT scans. However, Health Canada announced that it would withhold funding for Saskatchewan's health care system because the province had violated the Canada Health Act by introducing the private-pay system. Beck, asked the Premier to abandon the scheme, citing a 63% increase in average wait times for MRIs since its introduction. Merriman defended the policy, stating that it had provided 15,000 scans paid for by Saskatchewan people, which had reduced wait times for surgeries. He argued that the federal government was taking away tools for the province to address health care pressures. Mowat alleging that the government was breaking the law, while Merriman accused the NDP of being stuck in outdated ideology, insisted that the policy had received overwhelming support from Saskatchewan voters, while the NDP argued that the government's policy had drawn resources away from the public system, leading to longer wait times for all. Merriman insists that the people of Saskatchewan want private for pay healthcare, and accuses NDP of protecting public care as an ideology, and states “ We take our direction from the people of Saskatchewan who had the privilege of putting us in here, Mr. Speaker, certainly not from Justin Trudeau.”, and he says that a few times. Mowat insists that funding the public system is an option, but the government is refusing. Merrimen says it’s ok for them to do this because other provinces are also doing the same thing, and claims that the NDP started private care. Conway asks: Who benefits from this privatisation, he didn’t answer the question, she goes on the claim the took $26,000 from private MRI companies. She also asks him to take big corporation money out of politics. He deflects and doesn’t answer these questions, uses strawman arguments, again cites the federal government. This is worth watching.
\*NOTES: Patients in SK waiting longer than 12 months has increased 106% since 2010. All metrics show that this system has failed worse year after year.*
https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/health/accessing-health-care-services/surgery/surgical-performance-and-wait-times
Evidence that the $742k in clawbacks were due to Health Canada Act infringements.
https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/health-care-system/canada-health-care-system-medicare/canada-health-act/new-initiatives.html
Donation claims are verifiable, I didn’t add them up: https://www.elections.sk.ca/reports-data/candidate-political-party-finances/fiscal-period-returns/2021-returns/saskparty/
Additionally, they didn’t run on a campaign of replacing public health care with for profit private, so they don’t have a mandate to do so. Merriman claims that they do have that mandate, but I can’t find any election information where they proposed this. I couldn’t find data showing the NDP had private care, but I’ll link it if anyone has a source.
FOOD PRICING
Trent Wortherspoon vs David Marit 2:22:00
Wotherspoon expressed concern that the prices of meat were rising, but producers weren't seeing those dollars, as they were being taken by big out-of-province anticompetitive meat packers and supply chains. He called on the government to investigate food and meat pricing to deliver fairness for producers and consumers, citing drought and no more money going to producers.
The Minister of Agriculture, Marit, attributed the rise in food prices to the carbon tax, which he claimed was a tax on every portion of food grown in the province, says this is due to Trudeau.
Wotherspoon, criticised the minister for being weak for the producers and consumers of the province on this file and standing up for the out-of-province, anticompetitive meat packers instead of the producers in the province. He referenced former Premier Brad Wall's statement that hearings would never hurt, and the provincial governments, especially in the West, would line up in favour of having a look at this. He urged the government to act for producers and consumers and investigate what is going on with meat prices.
OVERDOSE NUMBERS - MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTIONS
Vicki Mowat vs Everette Hindley 2:25:06
In this conversation, Ms. Mowat, a member of the legislative assembly, expresses concern over the increasing number of overdose deaths in the province, with 103 suspected overdose deaths in just Jan and Feb this year, compared to 2016 were there were 109 for the entire year. She criticises the government for not having a plan to address the issue and asks when they will deliver a mental health and addictions strategy that works for everyone.
Hindley (Minister of Mental Health and Addictions), acknowledges the severity of the situation and states that the government is making record investments in this area. He mentions that they are close to announcing the first phase of additional treatment-space capacity to provide more access to long-term rehabilitation and recovery options across the province. He also mentions that they are investing in overdose outreach teams and expanding access to naloxone across the province. He says they are making future plans to address these problems, such as operational overdose outreach teams, drug-checking devices, and expanding access to naloxone. He also mentions that additional investments will be made in next week's budget.
\NOTES: Budget 2023: Mental Health and Addictions will receive a significant increase of $9.5 million in 2022-23, including $8 million for targeted initiatives to improve services and supports. Included in this funding will be the first of the 150 new addiction treatment spaces committed to in the 2021 Speech from the Throne. A $1.5 million increase will annualize initiatives first introduced in the 2021-22 Budget.*
https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/news-and-media/2022/march/23/budget-2022-23-delivers-record-investments-in-saskatchewans-health-care-system
Budget 2020-2021 was $458M.
https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/news-and-media/2021/april/06/budget-2021-22-continues-to-build-upon-record-investments-in-saskatchewan-health-care
MINISTERIAL STATEMENTS
Government Action on Immigration
Jeremy Harrison (SaskParty) and Trent Wotherspoon (NDP) 2:28:01
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has agreed to amend federal regulations and the Canada-Saskatchewan Immigration Agreement to give Saskatchewan the sole authority over assessing a candidate's ability to economically establish and their intent to reside. He expects 18,000 newcomers annually.
Wotherspoon praises the government for this negotiation with the federal government. He presses them to improve retention of migrants, 40% leave within 5 years. Previously we had a 78-80% retention rate. Ontario is over 90%. Also cites class sizes, the need for English as a second language. Otherwise he is in full support.
\NOTE: We have an affordable housing crisis. They haven’t addressed the current situation, and are pushing harder against it. If anyone has seen a plan, i’ll link it.*
MESSAGE FROM HIS MAJESTY KING CHARLES III 2:35:36
Randy Weekes (Speaker of the House)
I don’t care about this at all; the verbatim is in the debates link at the top, or you can watch it.
ORDERS OF THE DAY (2:39:09)
Bill No. 103 — The Accessible Saskatchewan Act 2:40:35
Meara Conway (NDP)
Second reading. Ms. Conway, the designated critic for disability issues on the opposition side, spoke in favour of the bill but identified several concerns raised by the disability and disability support communities, including the lack of prioritisation of the lived experience of people living with disability in the advisory board, the lack of detailed plan for rolling the standards out, the lack of teeth or mechanisms to ensure compliance, the lack of sufficient scope of the bill, and the absence of detailed plans on how service and procurement standards will apply to distinct areas such as healthcare, education, and housing. Conway also discussed other jurisdictions that have done a good job of ensuring that the burden of making the private sector more accessible does not fall solely on small businesses, and how this could improve the outcomes of the private sector, especially with a greater clientele and a better reputation within the community. She did give credit to the SaskParty government, but wants them to improve what’s lacking, including the impact of the loss of the STC.
Bill No. 106 — The Police Amendment Act, 2022 2:40:00
Nicole Sarauer (NDP)
Sarauer, raises concerns about the lack of consultation with leaders in policing in Saskatchewan and the government's desire to expand the definition of what a type of member would be, create an alternate governing structure beyond traditional police boards, and give themselves more flexibility to intervene in circumstances where they're not happy with how municipal police services are operating. She also criticises the government for disrespecting the work and independence of police forces in Saskatchewan, and for announcing the creation of the marshals service, a new policing body from scratch, rather than properly and adequately funding the RCMP, as they have requested many times. She also cites the take over of Leg security, and how other places do the same, but they aren’t democracies. Relates the term “Marshalls” (referring to new police services) as American terms, which is an interesting notice.
Unanimously YEA by SaskParty and Wilson (independant), NDP unanimous No against. Passed.
*NOTE: Background of partisan security at leg. https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/saskatchewan/sask-legislative-security-1.6448723
Also note that this was never campaigned on, there is no mandate for this action.
Bill No. 107 — The Provincial Protective Services Act 3:00:35
Nicole Sarauser (NDP)
Proposes to centralise different policing bodies under one umbrella. Sarauer raised concerns about the legislation's operation, specifically who will be covered and who will not be covered.
Bill No. 108 — The Pension Benefits Amendment Act, 2022 3:02:02
Doyle Vermette (NDP)
Vermette notes that many people in the province have a pension benefit, whether they work for the government, different agencies, or the private sector. The aim of the pension benefit is to ensure that individuals have a secure and comfortable retirement. The government has introduced 31 new fees and taxes on seniors who are pensioners, which could impact their ability to make ends meet. He believes that it is important to ensure that pensions are taken care of and looked after so that people can afford to live and pay their bills.
He acknowledges that there may be changes in times, both federally and provincially, which might require amendments to pension benefits, and wants to ensure that officials and the minister explain the reasons behind the proposed changes and the powers that are being given to certain individuals. He notes that the opposition and the critic will be asking questions about the changes to ensure that pensions are protected, and seniors are looked after.
He notes that many Saskatchewan residents do not have a defined pension and are struggling to make ends meet. He believes that it is important to have a fair wage to be able to provide for one's family. He notes that many people are working two or more jobs just to pay their bills, and the government is raising power rates and fees, making it even more difficult for citizens who are struggling to pay rent to cover their monthly bills.
Bill No. 109 — The Trespass to Property Amendment Act, 2022 3:07:14
Vickie Mowatt (NDP)
Mowat expressed her disappointment with the proposed changes in the legislation, which prohibits the federal government from trespassing on private land. She argued that the government is using this incident for political purposes and treating its own citizens irresponsibly just to score political points. She also expressed her concern over the violent and hateful comments made on social media hosted by the government. She noted she believes in rights and dignity of landowners and wants to work with stakeholders and protect all parties.
Bill No. 116 — The Plant Health Act 3:10:18
Betty Nippii-Albright (NDP)
She highlights that the minister can declare any animal, insect, or disease that is dangerous to plants or crops as a pest and appoint pest control officers to take care of it, order the destruction of at-risk plants, and declare a state of emergency. She also notes that the ministry must pay for the destroyed crops. Municipalities can appoint pest control officers and order compliance, but the ministry's regulations supersede the municipal bylaws.
Ms. Nippi-Albright expresses her concern about pests causing food scarcity and price increase, emphasising the importance of preventing and containing any pests that threaten farmers' crops. She raises questions about the lack of collaboration between the government or the ministry and municipalities in making changes to legislation that could potentially impact them. She is interested in knowing how municipalities, First Nations, and Métis communities are being engaged in this process, especially since there are many Indigenous farmers in the community.
The Saskatchewan Firearms Act 3:13:31
Trent Wotherspoon (NDP)
Wotherspoon from Regina Rosemont expressed his concerns with the overreach of the federal government on firearms bans and actions, and accuses them of having a poor understanding of this front in our province. He emphasised the practical relationship that Saskatchewan people have with firearms, including the importance of long guns to heritage activities like hunting and trapping, the significance of firearms to First Nations and Indigenous peoples who exercise their treaty rights, and the practical tool that firearms provide on a farm. Mentioned that Premier Romanow's government never supported the gun registry and stood up for firearm owners in Saskatchewan. He urged that First Nations and Métis people should be consulted on this legislation because they have a practical relationship with long guns in the province. He is personally a hunter and a member of the Sask Wildlife Federation.
The Warrant Compliance Act 3:17:46
Nathanial Tweed (NDP)
Legislation aimed at providing more resources and authority for warrant enforcement in Saskatchewan, particularly for violent offenders. Seeks to establish an investigation unit within the ministry that would investigate and issue orders to social-spending ministries to cut benefits for violent offenders with outstanding warrants. These benefits can be suspended or reduced by the benefits administrator, but they may exercise judgement if cutting benefits would cause significant hardship. The bill also allows the investigation unit to demand location information of violent offenders from any government institution.
While the bill is supported as an additional tool to apprehend violent offenders, concerns were raised regarding the lack of definitions for key terms such as "prolific violent offenders" and "significant hardship." There were also concerns about the impact of the ministry's orders on families and children caught in the criminal justice system, as well as the powers of the ministry to share information and demand location information. The member also expressed concerns about tough-on-crime legislation intersecting with social programs and the need to address the root causes of crime, such as poverty, homelessness, and mental health.
Bill No. 122 — The Saskatchewan Revenue Agency Act 3:21:40
Jennifer Bowes (NDP)
Creates a new Crown corporation. Expressed concern about the vagueness of the bill and the lack of clear indication as to why the government is creating its own revenue agency, which appears to be redundant and wasteful. The member criticised the government for spending more and more of Saskatchewan people's hard-earned dollars on petty legislation that does not have meaningful value to the majority of the people in the province. She wants to know why they are creating this bill, they don’t have a mandate for it, and they have no meaningful value. The opposition did not support the bill. Fringe and out of touch.
Bill No. 124 — The Alcohol and Gaming Regulation Amendment Act 3:24:30
Betty Nippi-Albright (NDP)
Proposes to give municipalities and regional parks the authority to designate outdoor public spaces as drinking areas and also allowing special occasion liquor licences to serve homemade beer and wine. The re-corking laws are also being modernised. The Member from Saskatoon Centre, Ms. Nippi-Albright, expresses her views on the Bill. She points out that there have been mixed reviews and responses from stakeholders regarding the Bill's impact on municipalities. Municipalities have raised concerns about the added responsibilities this Bill would bring. She also raises concerns about the potential for increased risks associated with alcohol consumption, such as drunk driving and sexual assault, particularly in Indigenous communities where alcohol has caused havoc. She notes the significance of consulting with those who will be impacted by the legislation.
Bill No. 125 — The Cannabis Control Amendment Act, 2022 3:29:14
Jennifer Bowes (NDP)
Proposes the creation of First Nations cannabis authorities to regulate on-reserve cannabis retail and distribution. The authorities will have the same regulatory powers as off-reserve, including setting prices, hiring minors, issuing permits, and imposing fines. The difference is that these First Nations authorities will not have to apply for permits from the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority. She spoke Saskatoon University spoke in favor of the bill, stating that it makes sense to turn over jurisdiction to First Nations. She also expressed hope for more relinquishing of settler jurisdiction over First Nations in the province, specifically in child welfare. The Assembly agreed to adjourn debate on the bill. Calls for more consultation.
Bill No. 126 — The Summary Offences Procedure Amendment Act 3:31:55
Matt Love (NDP)
Changes included in the amendments will benefit First Nations communities by allowing them to enforce their own laws and bylaws on reserve and move away from required court appearances for certain small convictions. He expresses hope that this will be a positive step towards self-government and self-autonomy for Indigenous nations in Saskatchewan.
This will be archived on SaskPoli\**. I am open to linking missed or relevant factual information provided, as well as correcting inaccuracies.**\**

Perks: Lifting Yourself Up (-400): The powers you have gained here work just like an invisible muscle. Ignore them, and they will stagnate. But actively use and train them, and you will see just how far dedication can take you. And now, all other abilities in your repertoire gain the same potential. Exercising your powers will increase their strength, no matter of what nature they might be or how mighty they already are. Unlike normal exercise, where after a certain point further progress becomes simply impossible, you will always see the same gains if you keep on putting in the time and effort. Don't neglect you real muscles, though. Playing superman is only fun if you also look the part
Hypnos Gene* (300CP): That which does not kill you, makes you stronger. Of course depending on who you talk to this could easily be a load of bullshit, but some seem determined to prove it right. This is an incredibly rare gene, rarer than even the genes that bond the host with Progenitor and its derivatives. It works by killing the weaker cells through natural selection, leaving only the strongest to keep the organism ongoing and encouraging the reproduction of the better cells. However, keep in mind that this is an extremely slow process, so don't expect to take on giants for a good long time... but one day you could. Time will be your greatest ally with this... a very slow, but steady ally.
Supernatural Savant (-600): People have all sorts of talents. Some are good at sports, some have amazing voices, some are great at computer games, and some are ridiculously good at using their superpowers. Wait, scratch that, the last one is just you. You have an inborn talent for using any extraordinary abilities you might have in your arsenal, and coming up with new uses for them. In just a few weeks, you could go from only being able to use rudimentary telekinesis for the movement of small objects to creating barriers with it, easily shaping and moving gases and liquids, affecting things you cannot perceive with your senses, diverting and controlling energies such as lightning, and feeling your surroundings through telekinetic feelers. One might even wonder if the original power was capable of such feats, or if you invented them yourself. But there’s no need for wonderment: if you diligently train and experiment with your abilities, you will see yourself able to use them in ways impossible to grasp for any others, pushing both the power and yourself beyond their limits. So long as you are creative, the various tricks and specializations you invent this way will allow you to advance your power in ways beyond just raw strength, and perhaps topple even giants with the metaphorical sling
Misery Loves Company (-600): All the negativity you experience in life - all the fear, anger, and jealousy - are, as their name suggests, not something one would like to feel. At least not most of the time. In combat though, that bit of anger can mean the difference between staying down and losing or getting up again for one last round. In your case, said difference is far beyond mere mentality and adrenaline. As you feel more and more miserable, no matter what shape that misery might take, you will see yourself become hardier, in both mind and body. You’ll find enemy attacks registering less and less in your mind as you shrug off even the most gruesome injuries, ignoring the pain and soldiering ever onwards despite how they should normally hinder you. Even as a limbless wreck knocking on Death’s door, you would still find it in you to knock over your adversaries like a bowling pin and tear them to pieces with your teeth. Your wounds just make you fight all that harder, letting a weak teenager shatter bones like glass, and you become more in tune with your body and surroundings, seemingly dodging attacks on instinct you couldn’t have seen and moving with the grace of a martial arts master. This also affects your powers, as you are using all available resources to bash some heads in. Somebody who could scarcely lift a rock on a good day might just tear their foes in half, if they were cornered enough, and use their powers with a focus and skill they normally couldn’t have dreamed of.
Blood Type + (Discount Medic): You are a universal donor and receiver both with blood and plasma and produce much more lifeblood for such purposes without changes to your diet being required. You could give enough of each for eight guys without keeling over, receiving either from any creature that shares your form, and your blood has no shelf life allowing it to be stored indefinitely even in hot temperatures. You are also able to transfer exact copies of any powers or perks you possess via blood with the exact specifications entirely up to you. Abilities thus given to others will grow over time and with use. Note: Blood transfusion is not the only means to pass on any abilities via blood, if you just want to put a few drops in someone’s drink that works too.
This Single Dream [400 CP] The last thing Miracleman and Liz Moran were expecting when their daughter was born was for her to speak only minutes out of the womb, or for her to become the most advanced being in the universe before her first birthday. Your own children will see similar growth in their bodies, minds, and powers. They’ll inherit all of your powers, surpassing you as infants, and by the time they’re adults their abilities will vastly outstrip even that. This applies to any superpowers and natural abilities, as well as traits like strength and intelligence.
Miraculous Growth [600 CP] Following his attempted murder in orbit, Kid Miracleman flew below the radar for two decades under the guise of his secret identity, Johnny Bates. Despite barely using his powers at all during that time, they didn’t atrophy. Quite the opposite, in fact. Kid Miracleman grew so strong he was able to effortlessly beat Miracleman into unconsciousness. You see similar retention and growth in your strength in power. It never weakens through disuse, instead growing more powerful over time. This allows any kind of superpower to grow without limit.
Drawback: Real World Consequences: Despite the existence of superpowers, this world works in a realistic fashion. So, when you throw a person through a building, people get hurt and the building might just come crashing down. Watch the collateral damage, or you might end up with a major kill count. This effectively increases the "grit level" of the setting. Whereas before it might have been like a four-color comic world, now it got more in common with a deconstruction like Watchmen.

See pics in link below. I bought this on fb marketplace last week. I’m not certain, but I think I made the scratches by pushing it into the back of my van, without covering up the hitches on the surface. I think maybe I created the dent at the top to from the fridge leaning on a part of the seat.
Anyways, I don’t care much about cosmetics, just function of the fridge. The issue is the the condenser runs a lot. Hard to quantify but it seems like it runs 55-70% of the time. You can see in some of the pics that the door alignment is off the freezer seals, but the handle on the fridge protrudes further than the bottom by maybe 1-2 cms(?). I’m thinking that maybe the dent at the top of one side has morphed the metal in a way that the freezer doesn’t seal all the way, allowing cool air to leak out. I can’t feel it, and the edge around the freezer door doesn’t get wet or cold, but I don’t know.
So is the condenser a problem? Did I cause the problem, if is a problem, can I fix it and how?
Thanks!
https://imgur.com/a/HWbhbou

So, I'm re-reading HtN (well, re-listening, thanks Moira Quirk!) and there's a thing that always sort of makes me go "hey wait a second" but this time through I actually paid close attention.
Is it just me, or is the timeline for Harrow opening the tomb/meeting Alecto/Griddle spilling the beans/Harrow's folks nixing themselves sort of screwy?
In GtN (chapter 30), Gideon recalls the following super-specific detail about going to tell Harrow's parents about Harrow opening the tomb:

She felt no flicker of guilt or doubt. Just hours before, she'd wrestled Harrow down in the dirt, and Harrow had scratched until she'd had half of Gideon's beneath her finger nails.

But, in HtN, as we read one of the introductory 3rd person chapters (chapter 3), we read:

One very bad day - when it seemed as though everyone hated her, and as though this were a completely correct way to feel - with bloodied fists and a bruised heart, she wrote a note explaining her suicide then went and unlocked the door. Unexpectedly, this did not kill her; and what did not kill her made her curious.
She was much older before she could cross the threshold.
[Description here of breaking into the tomb, seeing The Body for the first time, omitting the quote because it's long but it's clear from the text that This Takes A Long Time Over Repeated Excursions, and isn't a one-day sort of thing.]
She had been too careless with her visits. Her parents had . . . found out . . . about what she had done... Faced with apocalypse, they chose to die by their own hands before another day could claim them.

So, we're clearly meant to think that these are two perspectives on the same event, and - based on what we learn later in HtN - that it's Gideon's blood on her hands that allows her to get into the tomb to begin with.
But both of these give an extremely particular, specific timeline that definitely doesn't line up. In Gideon's account, it's mere hours from the time they fight to the time she runs to Harrow's Parents - their suicide definitely happens on the very same day. Whereas in Harrow's account it seems as though her parents only find out after she's been visiting The Body repeatedly, and that's after the laborious process of getting through the extra-super-ridiculously-trapped tomb.
I wanted to know if anyone else had noticed this, and if anyone had any theories on what gives?
Some thoughts on from my little bit of brain matter:

• Tamsyn Muir made a whoopsie-doodle - which is definitely possible, but I admit doesn't really seem likely to me. On the one hand, writing books is hard, and an author's decision on what happened when can shift around as the story progresses; but on the other hand, Muir is a very particular writer, and there's so much else in these books that's obviously meticulously thought out that it feels off to me that there'd be this degree of slippage.
• This is some huge fakeout and actually the opening of the tomb didn't have anything to do with Griddle's blood and there's something else going on. It's gonna become clear in AtN and we're all gonna be sitting around in December going "oooohhhh shiiiiittttt" looking back at this. I suppose it's possible, but tbh I don't like the idea - this moment for Griddle and Harrow is just so critical to both of them, it's one of the cruxes of their tragic coexistence. I'd really be sad if it just winds up being setup for a rug-pull, and Muir doesn't really strike me as an the sort of author who'd want to do that.
• The HtN chapter is in one of the Third Person Chapters, which in basically every other instance are describing events that happen in Harrow's Magical River Bubble Dream Cruise.
  • I feel like the community consensus on this chapter - Chapter 3 specifically - is that it isn't the same, and can be viewed as a pretty accurate picture of how Harrow actually grew up, albeit minus the Missing Gideon. This is basically what I've always thought, and there's good reason for that:
    • the tone of this chapter is quite different from the other 3rd Person Chapters, marking it somewhat as a thing apart;
    • the stuff it covers gives a lot of vital context for the 2nd Person Chapters;
    • there are no "this isn't how it happened" breakaways that normally indicate the river bubble;
    • and finally this chapter narrates right up to the present, narrating explicitly how Harrow has become a lyctor (or half a lyctor), which isn't something any of the other 3rd Person Chapters do.
  • All that together are some pretty strong indications that what we see of Harrow's childhood life in HtN Ch3 is a pretty accurate picture of Harrow's actual childhood.
  • But what if it isn't? If Harrow's recollection of the tomb incident is off-kilter, then what else in that chapter may also be coming from an unreliable narrator? It's imho the most interesting of the possibilities I've managed to think of, but also kinda uncomfortable because that chapter is really foundational to a lot of how I see Harrow, so not sure how I feel. That said the ability to discomfort me is part of what makes this series so good, so who knows.

That's some of what I think, but I'd love to read anyone else's thoughts or theories!

I got accepted at a college in Wisconsin for a Literature MA program where I'll get a full tuition scholarship and two campus jobs which will amount to 13k a year. I can count on a little financial support from my family ($150 a month). I've checked apartment rates which are at least $800 and I would mostly cook my own meals. I'm trying to figure out if this will be enough to stay afloat. Some professors superficially have told me I'll be able to survive. But honestly I want to make the most of my experience there.
I don't consider my ideal situation to be very high maintenance. I would like to live in a safe area near campus, go out with friends once every 2 weeks, be able to buy a book once a month and travel nearby during breaks.
Any suggestions? Would taking on a part time job off campus and one in be more beneficial than having two campus jobs?

Hi all,
My husband and I have two cats. The younger one, a male orange cat, is two years old and is insanely needy.. All. The. Time.
We give him so much attention by playing with him, petting/scratching him, etc., but it seems like the minute we stop, he starts trying to get our attention again. We can’t cook, eat, work out, watch TV, or do anything without him doing something bad or crying to get more attention. We can’t really ignore him either, as he does bad things that he knows will get us to notice him (e.g. knocking things off shelves, chewing on plants, scratching the carpet/furniture). We try so hard to give him quality playtime consistently to get his energy out, but it doesn’t seem to really help. We also tried implementing some tips from Jackson Galaxy’s YouTube videos on this topic, like doing structured play times, but these also didn’t help.
We love him, of course, but his need for attention at all times can get incredibly frustrating, especially for my husband who works from home often.
Any advice?? Thanks in advance!