https://preview.redd.it/j63xaoihie0d1.jpg?width=800&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=05e6a486d545f0ae5d27697fe716dcbdfbc24305

• Demi partook in the organization of beautician and unscripted television star Brad Goreski, who looked rich in a plaid suit.
• The entertainer sat in the first line close by Debbie Harry, Lila Greenery, and Kate Greenery.
• Many models likewise donned coordinating calfskin sacks with the organization’s well-known twofold G logo.

Demi Moore flaunted her immortal magnificence by wearing a sheer trim dress during the Gucci Journey 2025 Design Show in London on Monday.
The 61-year-old in vogue entertainer wore a staggering dark and dim dress that displayed a stylish dark bra under. She finished her look with dark boots, a dark sack, and an enormous jewelry.

2025 Gucci Cruise Fashion Show

The Striptease star kept her long, dark hair free and styled straight, tenderly brushed aside. Demi looked sure as she postured for photographs at the occasion while holding her darling chihuahua, Pilaf, who remained with her for the entire term of the show.
Recently, Demi was brought together with her previous spouse Bruce Willis as they celebrated little girl Tallulah Willis’ 30th birthday celebration. In snaps shared via online entertainment, Demi should have been visible grinning close by little girl Tallulah and her ex as they commended the achievement birthday. Composing on Instagram, Demi told her devotees: “Showering our #bruuski with adoration today on her 30th birthday celebration.”
She shared the post close by one more snap of her snuggling the birthday young lady with little girl Scout and Tallulah’s accomplice Justin Acee. The couple have three little girls — Rumer Willis, Scout LaRue Willis, and Tallulah Willis — and were hitched from 1987 until 2000.
Last year Bruce’s family affirmed the star’s well-being had disintegrated and he had been determined to have language jumble aphasia that had since advanced to a frontotemporal dementia determination. The illness has a commonplace future of somewhere in the range of six and eight years yet can be essentially as low as two years at times.
A Top-notch crowd including Paul Mescal, Dua Lipa, Andrew Scott, and Salma Hayek looked as models showed the new assortment on the runway.
The extravagance Italian design house showed different fragile sheer outfits, loosened-up denim, and easygoing streetwear.
The assortment was the most recent from Sabato De Sarno, who turned into Gucci’s imaginative chief last year.
Gucci ordinarily shows assortments as a feature of Milan Design Week, yet it frequently picks different areas all over the planet for its voyage assortments — those in between the fountainhead and pre-winter style weeks.
At Monday’s show, models strolled between many greeneries, plants, and overgrown ways, a look that stood out from the modern show space.
Learn More: https://worldmagzine.com/fashion/demi-moore-paul-mescal-and-others-at-the-gucci-cruise-fashion-show/

The Canary Island date palm! Known scientifically as Phoenix canariensisThe Canary Island date palm! Known scientifically as Phoenix canariensis, this stately tree is more than just a plant; it's a striking feature of many landscapes. Originating from the Canary Islands, this palm is celebrated for its robust nature and elegant appearance. Suppose you've admired the line of tall, regal trees swaying gently in a Mediterranean breeze. In that case, you've likely been captivated by the Canary Island date palm.
The Canary Island date palm (Phoenix canariensis), native to the Canary Islands, is a majestic tree that enhances any landscape with its towering height and lush arching fronds. Ideal for both private gardens and public spaces, it requires full sun, moderate watering, and well-drained soil to thrive. This palm is visually stunning and plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by supporting local wildlife and sequestering carbon dioxide. Regular maintenance, including pest management and seasonal care, ensures its health and longevity, making the Canary Islands date palm a timeless choice for landscaping that combines beauty with environmental benefits.
Canary Island Date Palm: A Majestic Touch to Your Landscape

Why Choose Canary Island Date Palms?

Choosing a Canary Island date palm for your garden or street landscaping isn't just about adding greenery; it's about making a statement. These palms feature a thick, textured trunk and a lush crown of arching leaves that command attention. Whether planted in rows to create a natural fence or used as a standalone centerpiece, these palms bring a touch of exotic elegance.

Growth and Care

Growing a Canary Island date palm is a commitment to its future. These trees can reach up to 60 feet in height in their natural habitat. While they grow relatively slowly, their presence becomes more majestic each year. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, making them suitable for various landscape settings.
Watering needs are moderate, and the key is not to overwater, as the tree's roots do not like to sit in moisture. A balanced palm fertilizer can support healthy growth, especially during the growing seasons of spring and summer.

Landscape Integration

Integrating a Canary Island date palm into your landscape can transform the area. These trees pair beautifully with other Mediterranean plants, such as lavender and rosemary, creating a serene, drought-tolerant garden. They're also perfect for lining driveways or as grand entrance features. Imagine driving up to a home or business flanked by these magnificent palms. It’s a scene straight out of a luxury resort!

Pest Management

While generally robust, Canary Island date palms are not without their foes. The palm weevil is a notorious pest, and managing these critters is crucial for your tree's health. Regular monitoring and treatment with appropriate biological or chemical controls can keep these pests at bay, preserving your tree's health and aesthetics.

Seasonal Care Tips

Seasonal care is essential for maintaining the vibrancy of these palms. In spring, remove dead fronds and apply mulch to help retain soil moisture. Summer might call for increased watering if temperatures soar. At the same time, autumn is ideal for another round of fertilizer to strengthen the tree before winter. Speaking of winter, while these palms are somewhat cold-tolerant, they appreciate some protection from extreme frosts, especially when young.

The Environmental Impact

Planting a Canary Island date palm also has environmental benefits. These trees are excellent at carbon sequestration, capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it as carbon. Moreover, they provide habitat and food for various bird species, enhancing local biodiversity.

Final Thought

So, you have a deep dive into the Canary Islands' date palm world. Whether you're an avid gardener or a professional landscaper, consider this palm for its unmatched aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits. It's more than just a tree; it's a legacy you plant today for future generations. So why wait? Bring a piece of the Canary Islands to your space, and let the majesty of the Canary Island date palm redefine your landscape.

FAQs about Canary Island Date Palms

How long does it take for a Canary Island date palm to grow?

Canary Island date palms are known for their slow growth rate. On average, these palms grow about 6 to 12 inches per year. It may take several years to reach their full height. Still, they become striking features in any landscape with proper care and favorable conditions.

How tall do Canary Island date palms get?

In their natural habitat and under optimal growing conditions, Canary Island date palms can reach heights up to 60 feet. However, cultivated in gardens or urban settings typically grow between 40 and 50 feet. Their majestic height is complemented by a broad, dense crown that can spread widely.

Can you eat Canary Island date palm fruit?

Yes, the fruit of the Canary Island date palm is edible. Still, it's less sweet or desirable than the fruit from the actual date palm (Phoenix dactylifera). The fruits are small, with a thin flesh layer around a large seed, and they have a somewhat fibrous texture and a mild flavor. They are more commonly used for ornamental purposes rather than for consumption.

How hardy is a Canary Island date palm?

Canary Island date palms are hardy and withstand about 20°F (-6°C). However, young palms are more susceptible to cold damage. They are suitable for growing in USDA zones 9 to 11. In colder climates, they require protection during winter or can be grown in large containers that are moved indoors during colder months.

Do Canary Island date palms need a lot of water?

Canary Island date palms have moderate water needs. They thrive with regular watering but are drought-tolerant once established. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, so it's essential to ensure that they are planted in well-drained soil and that watering is adjusted according to rainfall and soil moisture levels.
, this stately tree is more than just a plant; it's a striking feature of many landscapes. Originating from the Canary Islands, this palm is celebrated for its robust nature and elegant appearance. Suppose you've admired the line of tall, regal trees swaying gently in a Mediterranean breeze. In that case, you've likely been captivated by the Canary Island date palm.
The Canary Island date palm (Phoenix canariensis), native to the Canary Islands, is a majestic tree that enhances any landscape with its towering height and lush arching fronds. Ideal for both private gardens and public spaces, it requires full sun, moderate watering, and well-drained soil to thrive. This palm is visually stunning and plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by supporting local wildlife and sequestering carbon dioxide. Regular maintenance, including pest management and seasonal care, ensures its health and longevity, making the Canary Islands date palm a timeless choice for landscaping that combines beauty with environmental benefits.

Why Choose Canary Island Date Palms?

Choosing a Canary Island date palm for your garden or street landscaping isn't just about adding greenery; it's about making a statement. These palms feature a thick, textured trunk and a lush crown of arching leaves that command attention. Whether planted in rows to create a natural fence or used as a standalone centerpiece, these palms bring a touch of exotic elegance.

Growth and Care

Growing a Canary Island date palm is a commitment to its future. These trees can reach up to 60 feet in height in their natural habitat. While they grow relatively slowly, their presence becomes more majestic each year. They prefer full sun and well-drained soil, making them suitable for various landscape settings.
Watering needs are moderate, and the key is not to overwater, as the tree's roots do not like to sit in moisture. A balanced palm fertilizer can support healthy growth, especially during the growing seasons of spring and summer.

Landscape Integration

Integrating a Canary Island date palm into your landscape can transform the area. These trees pair beautifully with other Mediterranean plants, such as lavender and rosemary, creating a serene, drought-tolerant garden. They're also perfect for lining driveways or as grand entrance features. Imagine driving up to a home or business flanked by these magnificent palms. It’s a scene straight out of a luxury resort!

Pest Management

While generally robust, Canary Island date palms are not without their foes. The palm weevil is a notorious pest, and managing these critters is crucial for your tree's health. Regular monitoring and treatment with appropriate biological or chemical controls can keep these pests at bay, preserving your tree's health and aesthetics.

Seasonal Care Tips

Seasonal care is essential for maintaining the vibrancy of these palms. In spring, remove dead fronds and apply mulch to help retain soil moisture. Summer might call for increased watering if temperatures soar. At the same time, autumn is ideal for another round of fertilizer to strengthen the tree before winter. Speaking of winter, while these palms are somewhat cold-tolerant, they appreciate some protection from extreme frosts, especially when young.

The Environmental Impact

Planting a Canary Island date palm also has environmental benefits. These trees are excellent at carbon sequestration, capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it as carbon. Moreover, they provide habitat and food for various bird species, enhancing local biodiversity.

Final Thought

So, you have a deep dive into the Canary Islands' date palm world. Whether you're an avid gardener or a professional landscaper, consider this palm for its unmatched aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits. It's more than just a tree; it's a legacy you plant today for future generations. So why wait? Bring a piece of the Canary Islands to your space, and let the majesty of the Canary Island date palm redefine your landscape.

FAQs about Canary Island Date Palms

How long does it take for a Canary Island date palm to grow?

Canary Island date palms are known for their slow growth rate. On average, these palms grow about 6 to 12 inches per year. It may take several years to reach their full height. Still, they become striking features in any landscape with proper care and favorable conditions.

How tall do Canary Island date palms get?

In their natural habitat and under optimal growing conditions, Canary Island date palms can reach heights up to 60 feet. However, cultivated in gardens or urban settings typically grow between 40 and 50 feet. Their majestic height is complemented by a broad, dense crown that can spread widely.

Can you eat Canary Island date palm fruit?

Yes, the fruit of the Canary Island date palm is edible. Still, it's less sweet or desirable than the fruit from the actual date palm (Phoenix dactylifera). The fruits are small, with a thin flesh layer around a large seed, and they have a somewhat fibrous texture and a mild flavor. They are more commonly used for ornamental purposes rather than for consumption.

How hardy is a Canary Island date palm?

Canary Island date palms are hardy and withstand about 20°F (-6°C). However, young palms are more susceptible to cold damage. They are suitable for growing in USDA zones 9 to 11. In colder climates, they require protection during winter or can be grown in large containers that are moved indoors during colder months.

Do Canary Island date palms need a lot of water?

Canary Island date palms have moderate water needs. They thrive with regular watering but are drought-tolerant once established. Overwatering or poor drainage can lead to root rot, so it's essential to ensure that they are planted in well-drained soil and that watering is adjusted according to rainfall and soil moisture levels.

I've left this comment on a couple of posts and someone suggested I make a post about it. I'm happy to do so in order to keep it all together in one place. I've even added a couple of new items.
These are results I got in Google after restricting the search from January 1, 2024 - May 10, 2024. According to the Daily Mail, "Records show it was declared delinquent in January for not filing its annual registration renewal fee reports or renewal fee since February 2023". [Archive link - https://archive.is/wgrzc] This would mean any publicity or donations / grants that were announced would have happened AFTER it was declared delinquent.
I did not even go into activities from Feb - Dec of 2023. The following items are just since Jan 2024. (Meaning the new 'check is in the mail' cover story is as legitimate as their foundation. [Archive link - https://archive.is/wip/fjOM8]) They are not necessarily in chronological order.
​
The Archewell / NAACP award for $100K was announced in March 2024:
"Prince Harry and Megan's [sic] Archewell Foundation has announced the new winner of an annual award meant for figures who have overcome racist and sexist biases in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).
Each year, the winner of The NAACP - Archewell Foundation Digital Civil Rights Award is awarded $100,000 to advance their work in civil and human rights."
March 14, 2024: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13199041/Archewell-Foundation-announces-NAACP-foundation-award-harry-meghan.html [Archive link - https://archive.is/FKRzS]
Question: Did Archewell give the $100K themselves?
​
In March it was also reported that Archewell had been funding a San Antonio Afghan refugee women's charity "since last July".
"San Antonio is one of the foundation’s 11 active Welcome Projects across the U.S." [Archewell archive link - https://archive.is/JWErN]
March 12, 2024: https://sanantonioreport.org/prince-harry-and-meghan-markle-visit-afghan-refugee-women-in-san-antonio/ [Archive link - https://archive.is/tRgsS]
​
Also from March 7, 2024 in Vanity Fair [Archive link - https://archive.is/7A8bS]:
"On Thursday, the Duchess of Sussex and the nonprofit Moms First are announcing the results of a study on television moms with the Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media...
...The duchess is teaming up with actor Geena Davis and Moms First, a longtime charity partner of the Archewell Foundation, to raise awareness about the ways television depicts characters who are mothers, backed up by data gathered from programming across 2022."
https://momsfirst.us/news/gdi-motherhood/ [Archive link - https://archive.is/wip/yJeFD]
​
April 2024: "African-American art earned a royal endorsement when Prince Harry and Meghan Markle — also known as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex — hosted “An Evening of Art” on Thursday, March 21, honoring The Kinsey African American Art and History Collection at Sofi Stadium in Inglewood, California, where the exhibit debuted during Super Bowl LVI 2022. Last month’s event was the result of a partnership between the Sussexes’ Archewell Foundation and The Bernard and Shirley Kinsey Foundation for Art and Education." [Archwell archive link - https://archive.is/61uYX]
April 3, 2024: https://thegrio.com/2024/04/03/meghan-markle-and-prince-harry-amplify-black-art-with-a-star-studded-special-event/ [Archive link - https://archive.is/gdyiF]
​
May 10, 2024 announcement:
"What a joy to welcome to Nigeria our dear partners Prince Harry & Meghan, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, and their Archewell Foundation team to celebrate our new partnership to provide mental and menstrual health workshops to teens and youth on an ongoing basis!!"
https://www.facebook.com/GEANCOFDN/posts/833274995502687 [Archive link - https://archive.is/wip/U3h8C]
https://preview.redd.it/tdflurfked0d1.jpg?width=1486&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=ec3d0962ea7d20395d94998387b1cdea1c8bb3a1
New addition from Archewell [Archive link - https://archive.is/Qxwes] regarding expansion of the above GEANCO partnership during the May 2024 visit to Nigeria:
"The Duke and Duchess will continue to support this prolific partnership with The GEANCO Foundation by providing hygiene products to 1,500 girls and pregnant women through their Foundation.
We are pleased to announce the expansion of this partnership to include mental health resources and training for teenage girls and boys across Nigeria, where like so many other counties, stigma still has a stronghold. With this expansion, GEANCO will hold summits designed to provide the necessary information, skills, and coping mechanisms to thrive."
​
New addition from the BBC dated May 12, 2024 and Archewell [Archive link - https://archive.is/SWE9h]:
"For their final official day in Nigeria, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle visited Ilupeju Junior Grammar School, Lagos, where they watched a basketball practice and Harry joined for some drills.
The couple used the occasion to unveil a partnership between their Archewell Foundation and non-profit Giants of Africa, which uses sport to empower young people."
https://www.bbc.com/news/av/world-africa-69000857 [Archive link - https://archive.is/GRVSW]
​
As for publicity / PR in this timeframe (not including additional tie-ins with Invictus, Sentebale and BetterUp-related events), I found the following...
​
The Daily Express reported the following on January 14, 2024 regarding Harry being named a "Legend of Aviation":
"The Archewell Foundation, founded by The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, says it is 'categorically untrue' that any money exchanged hands concerning the 'Living Legends of Aviation' title."
https://www.express.co.uk/news/royal/1855510/prince-harry-publicity-stunt-living-legend-aviation [Archive link - https://archive.is/bGxVa]
​
Archewell sought publicity in February by announcing:
"Meghan Markle and Prince Harry's Archewell Foundation honored Black History Month with a group outing.
A new post on the Archewell Foundation website marked Black History, sharing that the team visited a photo exhibit chronicling the Civil Rights movement in Los Angeles."
February 27, 2024: https://malaysia.news.yahoo.com/meghan-markle-prince-harrys-archewell-163043509.html [Archive link - https://archive.is/rrHHZ]
​
Archewell was also name-dropped on April 2, 2024 when Meghan made an appearance to read at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles as part of the "Make March Matter Campaign", but I cannot find anything that mentions an Archewell donation or grant.
https://www.usmagazine.com/celebrity-news/news/meghan-markle-reads-to-patients-at-childrens-hospital-los-angeles/ [Archive link - https://archive.is/wip/0FG27]
​
Then on April 12, 2024 the Daily Mail reported:
"The Duke of Sussex is thought to be working with his PR advisers at Archewell to do all he can to manage photographs and videos from his public appearances - with any output being edited by Archewell or event organisers before being released."
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13300557/Prince-Harry-royal-experts-Archewell-Netflix-Meghan-Markle.html [Archive link - https://archive.is/GmilF]
​
New addition from the Archewell website [Archive link - https://archive.is/2kNu1]:
"On International Women’s Day, The Archewell Foundation co-hosted a keynote panel “Breaking Barriers, Shaping Narratives: How Women Lead On and Off the Screen” at South By Southwest (SXSW) in Austin, Texas.
Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex, and Co-founder of The Archewell Foundation, spoke at the festival’s keynote panel alongside fellow female visionary leaders Katie Couric, Brooke Shields, and Nancy Wang Yuen in a conversation moderated by The 19th’s Errin Haines."
"This session is presented by The Archewell Foundation and The 19th, the national nonprofit newsroom reporting on gender, politics and policy."
March 8, 2024: https://schedule.sxsw.com/2024/events/PP1145814 [Archive link - https://archive.is/4WMsU]
​
New addition from Mayhew Animal Home:
"In an event hosted at animal welfare charity Mayhew in North West London, family and friends of the late dog behaviourist and trainer, Oli Juste, as well as celebrities and Mayhew supporters gathered to unveil the Oli Juste Wing; refurbished kennels providing warmth, safety and shelter for the dogs that come into Mayhew’s care.
The wing was made possible by a generous donation from Mayhew’s former Patron and Oli’s dear friend, Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex. Oli first introduced The Duchess to Mayhew in 2019. They shared many things throughout their friendship, among which was a deep commitment to animal welfare and a love of rescue dogs. When he tragically passed in January 2022, The Duchess, through The Archewell Foundation, made a contribution to Mayhew in Oli’s honour to continue his legacy. The donation has also enabled the charity to make significant improvements to their dog run and garden which provide an enriching experience for rescued dogs while they are waiting to be rehomed.
The Duchess delivered a personal video message in Oli’s memory, and in support of Mayhew, which was shown at the event."
https://themayhew.org/mayhew-unveils-new-wing-in-honour-of-late-dog-trainer-oli-juste-with-support-of-meghan-the-duchess-of-sussex/ [Archive link - https://archive.is/vh66Y]
Posted to Archewell [Archive link - https://archive.is/wMsaM] on February 21, 2024.
​
New addition from Archewell [Archive link - https://archive.is/t0hhe] from May 4, 2024:
"The Archewell Foundation recognizes World Press Freedom Day. As the Foundation works to promote information integrity and ethical journalism as a fundamental right, we are proud to support our partners at Free Press, an organization dedicated to giving people a voice in the crucial decisions that shape our media...
...Through our work with Free Press and more, The Archewell Foundation remains committed to supporting a trustworthy and diverse information environment."
​
New addition regarding the "check is in the mail" excuse for the state of California [see comments below] - "Charitable organizations with Registry status of Current or Current - Awaiting Reporting may file annual reports and pay renewal fees electronically after establishing an online account." I would assume that Archewell can no longer pay online because they have been declared as 'delinquent'.
Source: https://oag.ca.gov/charities/renewals
​
Also consider the following dates in the above 2024 timeline.
Charles and Catherine's hospital stays and surgeries were announced on January 17th, 2024.
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-68009259 [Archive link - https://archive.is/1U7rK]
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-68010563 [Archive link - https://archive.is/t5sZr]
Catherine's cancer announcement was March 22nd, 2024.
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-68641441 [Archive link - https://archive.is/yaf5K]
​
Noted in comments below by user Starkville:
We should also note the presence of Archewell staff during the May 2024 Nigeria trip:
• James Holt, Director
• Miranda Barbot, Director of Communications (or VP of Programs and Media Operations)
• Charlie Gipson, press contact in Europe in his new role of Director of Communications (not clear if he’s employed by Archewell)
​
New addition showing Archewell branding at the "Woman in Leadership Nigeria" panel on May 11, 2024.
https://www.premiumtimesng.com/entertainment/naija-fashion/693648-duchess-of-sussex-meghan-named-omowale-acknowledges-nigerian-roots.html [Archive link - https://archive.is/wip/95uPV]
caption - Meghan co-hosted Women in Leadership with Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
​
And the entire Archewell branded backdrop above from May 11, 2024 was a typo because it should have read "WOMEN in Leadership Nigeria".
https://www.lbc.co.uk/news/meghan-markle-breaks-silence-family-fulfilled-dream-becoming-parent/ [Archive link - https://archive.is/fpwdV]
caption - Meghan Markle has revealed how much she loves being a mum. Picture: Getty
caption - Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, pictured with Mo Abudu during the event on Saturday. Picture: Getty
​
I'm sure there is more that I've missed so please feel free to add in the comments. I will try to keep this updated with any new information as I can.
Needless to say, for a foundation that has failed to file its reports and pay its renewal fee dating back to February 2023, they have certainly found the time in 2024 to seek publicity, put out public relations announcements, and solicit / spend.

Come one, come all, we're clooowning again! 🤡
Thanks to u/1DMod for posting the Jimmy Fallon video that led to me to start to connect the dots that other creators have noticed. Long story short, we're clowning for Stockholm N1 (maybe even night ✌️ as well), buckle up clowns!

✌️

First things first, May 17 is ✌️ fortnights after the release of TTPD on April 19. We know that Taylor is still throwing up peace signs which seems unnecessary if it only ever meant that there was a second part of TTPD. I think it's an indication that we haven't completely cracked that egg yet.
This photo was necessary for the post, ok

National/International Day Of

While these days aren't necessarily solid proof of anything, Taylor did release TTPD on Poetry & The Creative Mind Day and also released the ME! music video (ME! Out now!) on Lesbian Visibility Day so I think it's definitely worth investigating.
After publishing this post I was reading through the comments in this thread about easter eggs and was reminded by u/-periwinkle that some people predicted the Toe breakup date based on something Taylor mentioned in her NYU speech ("Part of growing up and moving into new chapters of your life is about catch and release"). 11 months later, the Toe breakup news came out on, you guessed it, National Catch and Release Day. More on the NYU speech later.
First, let's have a look at the holidays for May 17 that could be relevant:

• Endangered Species Day - Does anyone remember the ✌️ trips to the zoo while in Sydney...? We also have the big cat imagery on her new 1989 outfit to consider. If you haven't read this incredible post by u/Funny-Barnacle1291, I'd urge you to stop clowning with me (just for a moment) and go and read it. Taylor's TikTok bio still reads, "this is pretty much just a cat account" which could be a surface level meaning of her posting videos of her cats, but we know miss Feline Enthusiast herself loves a layered meaning. She also compared herself to feeling, "a lot like being a tiger in a wildlife enclosure" in the Lover diaries she released (pictured below).

TNT at Sydney Zoo Paris N4 TikTok bio Lover diaries comparing herself to a tiger Sydney Zoo

• National Pizza Party Day - I know I am personally still haunted by her Stephen Colbert interview on 13 April 2021. The interview starts with Colbert talking about Taylor's Versions and also talking about how he believes the song "Hey Stephen" is about him. What surprise song did we get on guitar Paris N3..? Important to note that this interview also talks about him "waiting tables on the lunch shift at Scoozi, an Italian restaurant in the River North area of Chicago, that, by the way, serves a really incredible slice of pizza." Taylor also goes on to say that the song is actually about Stephen King and Taylor then says "The Dark Tower series changed my life, plus The Shining, The Stand and don't even get me started on his short stories... Absolutely luminescent." This interview is obviously very strange and likely filled with easter eggs. We know that her mention of the River North area of Chicago was also the location of one of the TTPD murals that went up ahead of its release.
• I've just seen this tweet which has beautifully tied in the new Red shirt that was premiered Paris N1 ("This is not Taylor's Version") with a quote from the Stephen Colbert interview, "This isn't about you, it's about pizza... See?" We can clearly see the mood board is about Stephen however she keeps only talking about the pizza. It feels like a Cassandra moment where we (Gaylors but Stephen in the interview) are recoginising all the Stephen pictures and the general public (Swifties) are only focused on the pizza because that's what Taylor is showing them (the public narrative featuring Travis Kelce). There was also this excellent post connecting the new Red shirt to a painting by René Magritte's titled, "The Treachery of Images". We then get "Treacherous" as a surprise song on Paris N4.
• u/naked_blanket pointed out that there is a scene in the Lavender Haze music video "where a bunch of people are gathered around a pizza box."
• I can't remember where I saw it now but I was reminded of the below photo of Taylor and Keleigh Teller. Keleigh posted this to her Instagram on 30 May 2023 along with 8 emojis. The importance of the 8s will be explained further down the post under the Stockholm heading but for now, pizza.

No... This is pizza
https://preview.redd.it/4ikx6teucd0d1.jpg?width=443&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=6aec634e52a1083cccbcaefcb78227f2fe8db793

• International Day Against Homophobia Transphobia and Biphobia - I honestly don't think I need to say anything else to the Gaylor Swift subreddit as to why this day might be a day of importance to Taylor...

ME! Out soon 😉

• National Graduation Tassel Day - Taylor was awarded with an honorary doctorate at NYU in 2022. We know that her speech at this event was filled with “Midnights” easter eggs including lyrics to “Labyrinth” and “You're On Your Own, Kid”. I wonder what other easter eggs are hidden in this speech...? Here's a link to the video and you can also read the full transcript here. I'm not going to do any further digging into this one right now, just presenting it as evidence but please feel free to note anything of importance in the comments. I do want to note here though that I recently saw a video where Taylor was leaving TTPD easter eggs while doing promo for Red TV (maybe an ATW10MV short film interview?) so I don't think it's out of the question that this speech contains TTPD (and beyond) easter eggs. I'll link the video if I can find it again.

Dr Taylor Alison Swift

• Pinot Grigio Day - A day celebrating u/getmeapinotgris! That's it, end of the easter egg! I'll touch on just a couple of pieces of evidence here as I think it's pretty common knowledge that Taylor likes her white wine. We now even have a direct white wine reference on TTPD, "these chemicals hit me like whiiiite wiiiiine" which was then used by Taylor as a caption in a tweet recently when she reposted a review of TTPD. I think the most interesting potential easter egg to me is her drinking a huge glass of white wine leaving her last performance of the LA shows and she was obviously still performing. It looks to me like it's the same Midnights dress she wore Paris N1 ^{Chiefs colours, obviously!} which could be an interesting connection. When looking for the video footage of her leaving LA, I noticed that the account that posted it is verified and she appears to be an Entertainment Journalist with the Hollywood Reporter who received a 1989TV PR package with the cardigan around the release of 1989TV. What an interesting, fun and not at all related coincidence that the Entertainment Journalist happened to have seats to the show in the obstructed view section where you see Taylor leaving the stage...
• Credit to u/intheafterglow23 for commenting on this post to remind us all of this incredibly special scene in Schitt's Creek where David says, "I like the wine and not the label" which is a metaphor for his sexuality. u/intheafterglow23 goes on to note that while the season the clip is from debuted in 2015, it really took off in the US around 2018/2019 - Taylor's response that I have screenshot below was posted on 25 May 2019, right in the middle of her sparkling summer where there were blind items she was going to come out as sexually fluid. I've tried looking for this blind without any luck, if anyone has a copy can they please post it in the comments!

These chemicals hit me like whiiiiite wiiiiine

• Shades Day - Why? Because shade never made anybody less gay! Jimmy Fallon is a long-time perpetuator of Taylor Swift's easter eggs and I don't think this video he posted on 1 May 2024 is any exception. The video shows Jimmy decked out in TTPD merch singing along to Who's Afraid Of Little Old ME! and he then dons a pair of orange shades and the camera pans down to show the orange Nike swoosh on his shoes. Credit to u/International_Ad4296 for posting on this thread that the shades Jimmy is wearing in the video are shutter shades that were worn by Kanye West in his 2007 music video "Stronger" and then went onto become known as "Kanye West glasses". Kanye has been a big player in the TSCU since he interrupted her while accepting an award for "Best Female Music Video" during the VMA awards in 2009. That's all the airtime I'll give that person.

Direct 17/5 easter eggs

• Tokyo N3 - One of the surprise songs during Tokyo N3 was "The Outside". This excellent video by Kristen (underthepink7 - go follow her, she's amazing) goes into some additional easter eggs that I'm not going to go into here but definitely worth a watch (which also connects to "Down Bad"). What I do want to talk about though is what Taylor said when she introduced the song. Here's a video of the performance including her speech beforehand where she says, "this song is 175 years old." At the time most people thought that it was an egg for number of days leading us to 2 August 2024. It could still be referring to this however I'm starting to believe it's related to the date.
• Date format - Before we go any further, it's important to note that the date format in Europe (where the Eras Tour currently is) goes DD/MM/YY. This is why I think the 175 could be a date as that equates to May 17 in Europe.
• Tokyo N4 - On 10 February 2024, the surprise songs in Tokyo were "Come In With The Rain" (track 17) and "You're On Your Own, Kid" (track 5), another 175 and in this case it's specifically 17/5.
• Anti-Hero music video - There's been some really interesting analysis that I've seen on Twitter where the timestamps in Taylor's recent music videos appear to be lining up with the date of things happening in real life. Underthepink7 and Kiturakk on Twitter have pointed out some interesting connections to the numbers 175 in the "Anti-Hero", "Bejeweled" and "Willow" music videos. I'll admit this could be considered a bit of a stretch but what if I told you none of it was accidental...

Is Taylor using timestamps in her self-directed music videos to refer to dates in real life?

Important days in history

These could be nothing, could be something, still worth noting:

• Anne Boleyn and 4 lovers executed (could this be why she directly mentioned the number 4 in her Betty speech Paris N4?)
• The diaries of Lord Byron are burnt by six of the poet's friends, described as "the greatest crime in literary history". u/thingwithfeathers38 has just pointed out that this stuck out to them as they've had this article saved in their notes app for a few weeks - Lord Byron had a half-sister named Augusta who was "sexually fluid".
• "The Wonderful Wizard of Oz" was first published 17 May 1900
• The first legal same-sex marriages in the US are performed in the state of Massachusetts in 2004

Important events in history that may be important to Taylor

Important events in the TSCU on this day

• "Bad Blood" music video premiered at the Billboard Awards
• Entertainment Weekly where Taylor is on the cover with a rainbow pin and gravestone that says "I tried" is published
• City of Lover concert (i.e. Taylor's Lover concert performed in Paris) airs on ABC for the first time

I think we're about to recreate her sparkling summer

Stockholm

• 88th show - Taylor made a point to let everyone know that Paris N4 was the 87th show of the tour. Yes, 87 is Travis' number, but what if it was also to let everyone know that Stockholm will feature both her 88th and 89th shows? Obviously 89 is an important number to her as it's the year she was born, however last year we saw Taylor embracing double dates (5/5 Speak Now TV announcement, 7/7 Speak Now TV release - there's probably others, that's all I remember off the top of my head) so I don't think it's a stretch to say that the 88th show would hold significance to her. I saw this thread on Twitter yesterday regarding "portal dates" and while obviously this is referring to dates, I can see "portal shows" being potentially noteworthy. Following on from this, Kristen has highlighted some Taylor Nation tweets that include the words "17" or "May" with one of those tweets being posted on 8/8 (while quoting "Betty" of all songs...) which Kristen notes is the karmic number representing resurrection and regeneration (tweets pictured below).
• I was reading through the comments in the Jimmy Fallon video thread and u/cookiechipchocolate reminded me that one of Kanye's albums is titled "808s & Heartbreak". Could be a sly reference to her 88th show however I'll admit this is a bit more of a stretch connection that I've made.
• In the same thread, I saw this comment from u/taytopancakes noting that the day after is "said to be the most magical/lucky day of the year" which just so happens to also be Taylor's 89th show of the Eras Tour. I'd say the stars are certainly starting to align!
• Following on from the Keleigh Teller pizza photo on 30 May 2023 that has 8 emojis that I shared above, the other big thing Keleigh contributed to the TSCU in 2023 is her quote of, "you're my Elizabeth Taylor" in the video she shared where she gave Taylor that opal and blue topaz ring for her 34th birthday. This quote always stuck out to me. I know that Elizabeth Taylor had many husbands so I looked it up and, you guessed it, she had 8 husbands (7 different men). It's also interesting to note that the first thing that comes up when you google "opal signficance" is "the opal has long been considered a lucky and protective talisman" which connects back to the TTPD announcement post that Taylor tweeted on 5 February 2024.
• u/slugs_instead and u/chickadee323 also pointed out that we have been seeing a lot of infinity symbols lately; we've seen the infinity symbols everywhere from The Man wall, jewelry Taylor wears, the Karma music video and most recently in the stage visuals for "Down Bad". An infinity symbol turned on its side looks like an 8. I believe the infinity symbol represents Taylor's cycle of death and rebirth, "I rise up from the dead, I do it all the time" and "I'm getting tired even for a phoenix, always risin' from the ashes". What better way to signify the two sides of Taylor than two infinity symbols side-by-side, i.e. 88. Important thing I want to note - I just went and watched the footage of the "Down Bad" infinity symbol that I linked above and it stops just before completing - she's still on the journey, the cycle is not yet complete.

Deep portal, time travel
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• Beyoncé - The Renaissance World Tour kicked off on 10 May 2023 in Stockholm at the very same stadium that Taylor is performing in next weekend. To me it would make sense to start a tour named Renaissance in Italy, where the Renaissance originated not in Sweden... We've seen Taylor and Beyoncé supporting each other a lot in the last year and Beyoncé's producer recently said, "let's just say she's on the approach of shocking the world." We know she's on her own three-act journey at the moment (complete with queer-flagging in her shows and her own Biyoncé rumours) so I don't think this quote is directly related to Cowboy Carter but potentially regarding the culmination of her arc. Is it possible that her arc lines up with Taylor's creating a supernova that will change the industry forever?

Taylor & Bey supporting each other at their respective film premieres, a literal pride flag on the Renaissance Tour (it's actually just Chiefs colours, phew!)

• Taylor recorded songs in Stockholm - Kristen notes that many of Taylor's important singles were recorded in Stockholm including "I Knew You Were Trouble", "Shake It Off", "Blank Space", "Bad Blood", "Ready For It" and "New Romantics". Perhaps this city holds a special place in her heart?
• One Direction - paging u/1DMod to go into more detail here however noting that One Direction has a song called "Stockholm Syndrome" and the lyrics are very interesting indeed ("I used the light to guide me home"). Checkout this recent post by u/1DMod regarding the possible Larry connections to TTPD.
• Friends Arena - The stadium in Stockholm is called the Friends Arena. Taylor had a Friends pin on her jacket on the Entertainment Weekly cover. Was this stadium always supposed to play an important role? Kristen also notes that the opening ceremony took place on 27 October 2012 (obviously 27 October is the day that 1989 was released, both times) and Elton John played there on 13 December 2010 (who had his own journey down the yellow brick road and people refused to see his queerness for years even though he was in screaming colour).

New Romantics

Kristen, who I have referenced in nearly every part in this post (again, she's amazing, go follow her), has a mass coming-out theory that she has dubbed the New Romantics. I highly recommend checking out her content on Twitter and TikTok and she's also recently launched a podcast that you can read more about here for more information on this theory. Essentially the theory is that a large number of artists in the entertainment industry are queer and are working together as a "safety in numbers" type approach to coming out of the closet and potentially changing the industry in a monumental way.
Let's have a look at some players that are relevant to either May 17 or Stockholm (or both in one person's case!):

• Zayn - This is the person who is relevant to both May 17 and Stockholm! Obviously he was part of One Direction who I spoke about above as having a song titled "Stockholm Syndrome". Did you know his new album "The Closet" "The Room Under The Stairs" is being released this Friday, May 17? Again, I'll leave this to u/1DMod to add any additional relevant information as this is not my area of expertise but from what I understand, all members have their own queer rumours.
• Billie Eilish - Recently out as a girl kisser, Billie Eilish is also releasing an album on this day titled "Hit Me Hard and Soft" featuring a song called "Lunch" that would leave even the most homophobic Swiftie unable to defend her queerness if released by Taylor.
• Madison Beer - Madison is out as bi. Her tour, The Spinnin Tour, began 24 February 2024 in Stockholm (a different venue though).

Theories as to what exactly is coming

• TTPD: Part 3 - I recently made a post presenting the evidence on a potential third part to TTPD. In this post the majority of the evidence was just related to the "3s" that have been prevalent lately however there were also some "5s" which led us to believe something was happening 5/3. I've since had a couple of thoughts that maybe the "3/5" is related to her 35th birthday this year and that it's the third time she's trying to come out and five years from the last time. I strongly believe she'll be out by her birthday at the latest if not ON her birthday, but I digress.
• Karma - After the fiery ^"Chiefs" colours we saw displayed in Paris, I'm not sure how you could be a Karma-denier at this point to be honest! If you haven't already, check out this amazing post from yesterday by Dr Bryanlicious2 homewrecker, u/clydelogan. Their post discuses the numerology surrounding the number 8 that I referred to earlier however could this all be pointing us to the 88th show instead of a particular date...? Also if you are unaware of what we mean when we're talking about Karma, I recommend reading this collaborative post that is constantly being added to.

Karma is REAL

• Coming Out - I personally don't believe she would come out during a show in Stockholm, however it's worth at least noting as a possibility. It would mean that she was "out" before Pride Month 😉 She did just sing "Begin Again" as a surprise song in Paris N4 - is she beginning again as her authentic self at the very next show?
• Music Video - I know we thought we were getting a second music video for TTPD a fortnight after the album was released, however maybe that's what all this easter egging is for. I personally think it's something much bigger than that however will be very excited to dissect another music video! u/allie_lacey noted in this comment that Florence has recently said that she has "just got done filming with Taylor". A Florida!!! music video is something that a lot of us have been clowning for recently but I'd love to point to this comment by u/-periwinkle in particular as I think they've made a really good point about the mirrorball jellyfish which makes me think we will get a music video for this song at some point.
• Book - The creator of the video that u/1DMod initially posted believes that Taylor is announcing a book on 17 May 2024 with it to be released on 21 October 2024. I'm not going to go into this theory in detail however if you are interested in finding out more about what they have to say, here are a couple of videos of theirs (video 1, video 2, video 3).

Is this another easter egg that she laid 3 years ago?

In Summation

Something is happening in Stockholm. I don't know why exactly but it is THE ONE to watch.
I think it would be interesting to revisit the NYU speech, Karma music video, Stephen King, photos from the Uno parties and the Lover era in general for further hints as to what's coming. I think the key is going to be working together due to a comment that Questlove (yes, the one who throws the Uno parties) left on one of Kristen's videos. Here's a link to the video, the top comment is his.
Regardless, I'll be there talking smack in the megathread on Friday and keeping an eye out for any new "Chiefs" colours. See you there, clowns!
Who's clowning with me?! 🤡🤡🤡
Edit: I'll be making some additions to this post as people have been making incredible connections already, thank you! These will be noted as a new bulletpoint to try and keep it transparent as to what has been added. As I'm researching I'm also making new connections of my own that I will also add as separate bulletpoints.

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W.D. Kilpack III, a native of West Jordan, Uta., had his sixth novel, Battle Calm, published on Amazon.com. This is the first book in a trilogy called the Battle Calm Cycle, set in a dystopian future. It is Kilpack's first hardcover release, but is also available in eBook and on Kindle Unlimited.
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Battle Calm centers around Badger, a Keeper, who is the greatest soldier alive. He knows to never celebrate victories, no matter how hard-won, because the enemy never stops. When Badger succeeded his father, Red Skin, as Keeper Base Leader, he was well prepared, raised to handle anything the enemy threw at him. He was the best killer, and the most respected tactician. He knew Red Skin’s Laws like he wrote them himself. Most importantly, he was always calm, no matter how frenzied the combat. These were only some of the reasons why he still had all his original parts. His two closest friends are Trinity, who would die for him, and Korry, who would follow him without question. They are all Keepers. They fight, they kill, they live to kill another day, even when it means bugging out to another Base ... and another. That is life when life is war. They know nothing else. But even war cannot last forever, regardless of the infallible truth of Red Skin’s Law #35: “Under conditions of peace, men attack themselves; thus, there never has been, and there never will be a time without war. It is the greatest, most perfect thing men can do.”
Kilpack said, "I wrote the very earliest drafts of these books when I was 14. Don't worry, they've been revised many, many times since then. I'm very happy with the state they're in now. The military aspect is much more authentic in a lot of ways, despite being a fictional branch of the military. Research and Q&A with some veterans went into restructuring that aspect of the story both through direct feedback and pointing me to the right places to dig and find out for myself."
Kilpack is an award-winning and critically acclaimed internationally published writer, with works appearing in print, online, radio and television, starting with his first publication credit at the age of nine, when he wrote an award-winning poem. He has since won 23 book awards, including The International Firebird Book Award, The BookFest Award, International Impact Book Award, both Editor's Choice and Top Pick from BooksShelf and Honorable Mention from L. Ron Hubbard's Writers of the Future Contest for his novella, Pale Face, which was recently optioned for development for a Hollywood movie. He has been editor and/or publisher of 19 news and literary publications, both online and in print, with circulations as high as 770,000.
He received both his bachelor's and master's degrees from Westminster University. As an undergrad, he double-majored in communication and philosophy, while completing the Honors Program. As a graduate student, he earned a master of professional communication with a writing emphasis. He was also a high-performing athlete, qualifying for international competition in Greco-Roman wrestling.
For 25 years, he was a communication professor and a nationally recognized wrestling coach. He is an accomplished cook and has cooked nearly every type of food on a grill. He is happily married to his high-school sweetheart and is father to five children, as well as helping to raise five step-children. He was born in Salt Lake City, Utah, where he continues to live, consult and educate. For more information www.Kilpack.net
Praise for Pale Face
Pale Face is "pretty darned good. I like it. I love how [Hector] sees the aliens and the white men in the same light. A nice, brutal, ironic twist ... this is good stuff." — Dave Wolverton, international best-selling author
Praise for Crown Prince: Book One of New Blood
"Author W.D. Kilpack III presents an atmospheric and immersive journey into a richly crafted fantasy world, balancing a strong character-led adventure with a wider web of plots, setting up a highly complex and enjoyable fantasy saga to follow. There’s a clear flair for character, dialogue, and attitude from the start, with Natharr's intense presence affecting all who encounter him and making for some really dynamic clashes. The weightiness of his responsibilities and the depth of the world-building immediately gripped my attention and, as the story unfolded, the way the characters’ attitudes and actions were shaped by the realism of the worldbuilding was totally compelling. This book delivers on every promise of pulse-pounding adventure — thanks to the swift pacing of the plot, coupled with dark storytelling, strong descriptive skills, and captivating character development that balances emotion with duty well. Overall, I would certainly recommend Crown Prince as an incredible opener to an exciting new fantasy series, and I’m all the more eager to continue exploring this fantastical realm." — USA Today best-selling author K.C. Finn
Praise for Order of Light: Book Two of New Blood
"W. D. Kilpack III's Crown Prince captivated me. His vivid descriptions plunged me into a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and emotions. I devoured the first book in the New Blood Saga, desperate to see where the tale would lead. So, it was with bated breath that I cracked open Order of Light, the series' second instalment. Kilpack doesn't disappoint. The themes that resonated in Crown Prince deepen and twist in Order of Light. He has a way of making words just flow vividly on the page. On page 106 of my Australian paperback version, a revelation about Natharr, the Guardian of Maarihk, floored me! His journey of self-discovery weaves flawlessly with the Crown Prince's own remarkable growth. New fantastical creatures emerge from Kilpack's boundless imagination. The Quiet One and Bu, meticulously detailed in all their wonder, are testament to his storytelling prowess. But fear not, I won't spoil the magic! Suffice it to say, fans of epic fantasy, your search is over. Kilpack is your new literary lord. From exhilarating battle sequences to poignant moments of reflection, Order of Light is a masterpiece. If I could, I’d give it a six! Both it and Crown Prince deserve a place on your bookshelf. Trust me, you won't regret immersing yourself in Kilpack's world." — Jose F. Nodar, author of Books, Pens & Larceny (South Wales, Australia)
Praise for Demon Seed: Book Three of New Blood
"Demon Seed is the thrilling and fast-paced third book in the New Blood Saga ... Kilpack does not disappoint! Demon Seed is a shocking and brilliant tale that will reintroduce readers to characters we have come to love/be invested in. In this third book, the stakes are as high as ever and the story the reader is taken on will enthrall, captivate and excite its readers ... Kilpack from the beginning hooks his readers and keeps them enchanted to the very end. I have to recommend Demon Seed to readers that love epic fantasy! Demon Seed is one that is full of shocks, thrills, and twists and turns galore that will keep you on edge from beginning to end. [It] is an incredibly suspenseful novel and this is thanks to the wonderful author, whose work I love ... [Demon Seed] did not let me down, this saga has not lost its momentum or uniqueness. Kilpack is an exceptional author [who] knows how to flawlessly transport his readers into the story ... the descriptions are phenomenal ... Demon Seed is a magnificent and entertaining book that will easily entertain its readers for many hours! That is why I of course have to award this incredible book five stars!" — RedHeadedBookLover.com
Praise for Rilari: Book Four of New Blood
"Embark on a captivating journey with W.D. Kilpack III's Rilari: Book Four of New Blood, a tale that expertly weaves tension, mystery, and awe-inspiring heroism. Kilpack's world-building skillfully combines politics, magic, and ancient lore, creating a rich tapestry for readers to explore. The characters, especially Natharr and the Knights of Ril, are well-developed, and the dynamic between Nathan and his summoned companion adds depth and heart to the story. Kilpack successfully incorporates profound themes of resilience and unity into the gripping plot, leaving readers emotionally connected. Riliari is a triumph, offering an enthralling adventure filled with courage and the enduring spirit of humanity." — BooksShelf.com

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(Writer's Note: Understanding this summary will require previous knowledge of the posts about Chaffee's foreign and domestic policies. Any reference that needs past context will be linked to their respective posts)
“Until the ends of the earth we shall fight for our values, our freedom, our sovereignty, and by the grace of Almighty God, America and its people shall triumph forevermore.” - Adna Chaffee in his inaugural address Adna Chaffee’s Cabinet
Vice President - George B. McClellan Jr.
Secretary of State - Champ Clark
Secretary of the Treasury - Elihu Root
Secretary of War - Robert F. Broussard
Postmaster General - Robert Borden
Secretary of the Navy - George E. Chamberlain (resigned March 1903) Frederick Eaton
Secretary of the Interior - Jim Hogg
Attorney General - Philander C. Knox
Secretary of Sustenance - Moses Kinkaid
Secretary of Public Safety - Edward Carmack
Secretary of Labor and Employment - George Westinghouse
Fearing The Chaffean Cabal
Hancock D.C., United States of America, February 4, 1901
“Mr. Moody, the gravity of this situation is straining to members of the opposition.”
“I agree to your sentiment, but forming an administration such as this is in total legal power of the president. We may oppose these appointments in Congress, but as long the Patriots have the majority of confidence in the chambers, our voices are irrelevant. All we can hope is for moderacy to prevail.
The Speaker of the House and Senator Wanamaker has already voiced the totality of his support for the president’s selection. Mr. Hanly, we cannot expect us to be victorious in blocking this new cabinet, especially as public pressure demands of us approval for a functioning government. May you read the list aloud again?”
“For State, James Beauchamp Clark of Missouri. Treasury, Elihu Root of New York. War, Robert Broussard of Louisiana. Postmaster General, Robert Borden of Nova Scotia. Navy, George Chamberlain of Mississippi. Attorney General, Philander Knox of Pennsylvania. Interior, Jim Hogg of Texas. Sustenance, Moses Kinkaid of Dakota. Public Safety, Edward Carmack of Tennessee. Labor and Employment, George Westinghouse of Pennsylvania.
Never since the Barnum administration has a presidential administration been so clearly partisan. These men hold very extreme, reformist, and hawkish views, the country will veer very far off from what President Custer created.”
“chuckles, Alas, we can do nothing but do our work here in the House of Representatives. Perhaps, we should not fear this for now.”
“sighs, If that that is what your mind is speaking to you, then I cannot oppose it. After all, we are now partners in opposition.”
The previous Custer administration had been marred by the Bryan-Russell rivalry which split the old presidential cabinet in pieces. It was custom that presidential cabinets be diverse in order to please either side of a political debate. As the old administration left, it was expected that a similar status-quo structure would be put in place to appease both hawkish hardliners and isolationist reformists, however the end result was far from that thought. The Chaffee administration was packed solely with so-called “ruffian” individuals, those who held interventionist, nationalist, social reformist, and near imperialistic philosophies. Cabinet members such as Champ Clark, Robert F. Broussard, Moses Kinkaid, and George Westinghouse were chosen due to their alignment with a ‘Chaffean’ belief. The more ‘reactionary’ members such as Vice President McClellan, Jim Hogg, George E. Chamberlain, and Edward Carmack still mostly held firm in their loyalty to the administration. The more ‘reformist’ column which included Elihu Root, Robert Borden, and Philander Knox, though more likely to be uncomfortable with the actions of the other cliques, still abided by the circle as a whole. Though terrifying for his political opponents, this powerful administration would be a blessing to the president himself, smoothing the path to get actions done.
President Chaffee during a visit to the Philippine Islands after the German negotiations
The Great Axe
Upon the axing of the ‘bloated’ bureaucratic Custerite system, the government experienced the first surplus in budget in decades. These policies were mainly devised by the machinations of Secretary Elihu Root and Attorney General Philander Knox. Many of the departments and sub departments created by the old administration were either merged, reassigned, or eliminated entirely. Funds for government-instituted programs were reallocated into the economic restructuring and control funds, killing off many public programs.
Attorney General Knox took a much harder stance on monopolies and repealed many of the protections handed to them by the Custer administration. Working with Secretary Carmack, the monetary ventures of these companies were now monitored by Bureau of Public Safety, and often threatened government intervention if practices were not up to standard. To the dismay of many radical anti-monopolists, the administration refrained from breaking up these monopolies and they continued to grow their empires that spanned the entire country, only now with increased government surveillance. On the other hand, new policies empowered small business and funds were reallocated to support non-monopoly affiliated business. Though these small business finally did detach themselves from the shadow of monopolies, in many areas competition remained harsh of them as the larger and more wealthy corporations dominated consumers.
Secretary Knox at work
In an attempted to stir back competition, Congress passed the Roosevelt-Garfield Bill in May 1902, penned by Representative Theodore Roosevelt of New York and Senator James R. Garfield of Ohio. The bill capped the wealth and support received by regional wings of corporations in “designated developing areas”. Harsh fines and possible shutdowns were imposed to any that tried disobey or cheat the law. Domestic American business saw a more competitive landscape throughout the coming years, though the wealth gap between big and small business still widened.
The Prince of the World
In a recent news report posted in the Hartford Courant, an interview with esteemed writer and author Mark Twain in February of 1903 caught the attention of many. The interviewer asked Twain a question regarding his past comments about President Chaffee, “In less than 10 words, how would you describe the foreign policy of the president.”. Twain paused for a moment and responded, “Ambition to a near toxic degree.”. Twain coined the term “Chaffean Policy”, and his sentiments were shared by most of the President Chaffee’s critics in foreign policy.
Chaffee famously declared in his tantalizing second round campaign speech that he would find America’s place under the sun. To most, Chaffee would deliver on that promise in a mere few years. America would achieve these feats quick and ambitiously. The American military occupation of Fujian Province and its establishment as part of the American sphere of influence was a victory to those who sought to expand American prowess in the Fat East. The American intervention to support the Filipino republics against the Germans who acquired the Spanish Philippines empowered the anti-German nationalists. The incidents at Manchuria and the souring of Russo-American relations bowed in favor of those who saw the Russians as autocratic tyrants. The establishment of American representation and interests in the Congo General Administration pleased the African opportunists. The quashing of the protests in Bahia Blanca strengthened those who wished to expand influence in South America. The US even demanded that the Argentine protestors be harshly punished by the Argentine government, which stirred the country's public even more. All in all, one group was certainly ecstatic of foreign policy the new administration was veering towards, the nationalist-imperialists.
American-administered railway construction in the Congo General Administration
These policy gave Chaffee’s administration immense bi-partisan support from the imperialists of the political spectrum. After the US was able to negotiate with the Germans not to continue their conquest of the Philippine Islands, Senator Henry Cabot Lodge would praise the president’s policies in a speech. “Never before has America shined so brightly to all societies of the world. Each step we take, we walk closer to the golden throne of a perfect civilization. There we shall take our rightful place as Prince of the World, under the service of the Lord, our God and Christ the Savior.”. The President himself was consistent in his constant declares of “American Sovereignty” against the grand foes that seek to dismantle it. Though notoriously less rambunctious and outgoing than his predecessor, Chaffee’s rare appearances gained much fanfare to his supporters, especially if he spoke out directly to them. The opposition continued to oppose these policies, the radicals and anti-imperialists joining forces to counteract the nationalist machine. Representative Hiram Johnson would try to push for an impeachment for Secretary Carmack, due to his actions in Bahia Blanca that led thousands deported, though his efforts fell flat. To the wider public, imperialism was either a non-concern or a broad support. A majority of American would not oppose these policies, most of them saying it was for the betterment of American prestige and international power.
Mass deportation of Argentine war immigrants back to Argentina
With fears that a possible conflict may stir up between the US and any other nation, Chaffee ordered Secretary of War Broussard and the War Department to hastily prepare a last resort war plans in case of war with every single major power in the world stage. Acknowledge the gargantuan task of defeating any major powers, the war plans describes very desperate and depraved tactics, such as using chemical warfare and bombarding international shipping. The plans would also describe the spoils of war that the US would seize if they were the win against their foes. Broussard's plans were kept top secret and never showed publicly, though many rumors got out and spread throughout the rooms of lawmakers, however those rumors was mostly either dismissed or sidelined by the general public and basically unknown to the rest of the world.
The Disobedient Son
While feelings of American expansionism were warm at home, abroad it utterly enraged many. In a golden room in a place in Berlin, Philipp, Prince of Eulenberg, after his meeting with George von Lengerke Meyer regarding the Philippines, told Vice Chancellor Arthur von Posadowsky-Wehner, “Americans are a brash and egomaniacal people. Always seeking glory, but never willing to sacrifice. Their great leaders of old, Hancock, Clay, Hale, would weep at the sight of this nation that stands before us.”.
The Kaiserreich was increasingly growing ambitious and hostile policy in the world stage. Along with her ally, the British Empire, they counterbalanced the Franco-Russian Entente for supremacy on the world stage. Woes for a conflict were already brewing in Europe. In the German-aligned Kingdom of Croatia-Slavonia (informally the Kingdom of Illryia), tension was growing with the Russophile Balkan-Slavic intelligentsia and the German ruling class, reigned by Bernhard von Saxe-Meiningen, or by his regal name King Konstantin I. A military arms race between the French and the Germans continues to flare up as both vie to be the premier continental power. The Germans would still hold claim the mostly ethnically and linguistically German Rhineland, which had been handed to the French after the Napoleonic Wars. The British and the French would compete for their massive colonial empires, seeking to establish dominance as the greatest empire in history. It didn’t help that Secretary of State Clark openly denounced the “colonial competition” of the French and the British, saying it put global peace in jeopardy. Clark sent multiple letters to UK Prime Ministers Robert Gascoyne-Cecil and Charles Spencer denouncing the UK’s policy of “encroachment”, stating that wherever the French sought to spread influence, the British would follow.
The Franco-British \"Great Game\" would distract both governments from fully decrying the US
The United States would be viewed as a bumbling yet dangerously ambitious nation, one that the Germans sought to keep passive and behaved. The US had aligned neither with the Franco-Russian nor the Anglo-German alliance, historically holding a famed neutral stance in global squabbles. However as President Chaffee’s more hawkish foreign policy began to soar the US above what the foreign empires expected, those nations began to antagonize the Americans. Even the French, who have a merely professionally lukewarm relationship with the US, began to get anxious. French Prime Minister Georges Picquart would describe the American foreign policy as “…inherently hostile to all non-Americans.”. Though no foreign nation would threaten military action against the US, the sentiments established would lead to many nations seeking American to stay put during foreign affairs. The Argentine public particularly had a rabid distain for the US. After their loss in the war, Argentina would suffer crippling economic conditions, further exacerbated by their political divisions and lack of national confidence. The new Argentine president sought to rebound relations with the US, which angered many of the populace who demanded to cut off relations from their former foe. The growing hostility of these nations was apparent to many in the government, though their reactions were muted and unenthusiastic. Most simply shrugged this concern off as unimportant. Senator Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., recently appointed to the Senate Foreign Affairs Committee, would state “The hostility and discrediting from foreign governments against the United States is matters that that foreign government solely has dictation over. Our government has no command over that they may say or do.” Holmes' address was met with cheers from the chambers.
The things he allows...
The first Chaffee cabinet would be one of the most politically powerful and influential administrations in American history. Coordinating excessive actions such as the expulsion of all Argentine immigrants, the grand “War on Crime”, the exaltation of the Hancockian Corps, and the detachment from the gold standard to fiat currency. Secretary of Labor and Employment Westinghouse moved ambitious yet business-friendly employment policies. Westinghouse imposed many policies that benefited the technological sector of the market, and many technological feats were aided by and complete by Westinghouse’s investments. Westinghouse’s company went beyond electricity and aided in the creation of groundbreaking inventions. Such as the “Whirl-craft”, the first American flying helicopter in 1903. Westinghouse would be a common figure of criticism by opponents. As the Housing Crisis continued and the costs of housing continued to be high, Westinghouse’s department was criticized in their inaction. Many saw that it was Westinghouse’s job to combat the issue, yet he did little to address the problem.
Secretary Westinghouse was a patron of rapid technological advancement
Secretary of Sustenance Kinkaid helped to imposed the “Market-by-Market” system. The government would classify a business based on their productivity, general environment, and profits. With the data collected, they get classified as either THRIVING, COMFORTABLE, or IN JEOPARDY. Based on their classification, it would determine the amount of aid and support they would receive from their local governments. While this system did revive thousands of small businesses that were on the brink of collapse, certain opportunistic administrators would forcibly close down IN JEOPARDY business that cut costs that would go in supporting them. States like Illinois and California would be the most notorious for their business shutdowns, as dictated by their local governments. Many local officials would get canned by their involving in this practice, such as Milwaukee Mayor David Rose, who shutdown many business in the city. Local legislators across the country would always try to push or support the practice of the man on top. Elsewhere however, such as in Texas and Virginia, local business thrived under the system. Someone who didn't thrive was a particular John D. Rockefeller, who was enraged that the government seemed to discriminate against his businesses. Rockefeller wrote in an open letter that "...no fair ground and no consistent market means no capital and no benefits for all.".
Most notorious out of all Chaffee’s cabinet was Public Safety Secretary Edward Carmack. Feared by both politician and civilian alike. The Bureau of Public Safety, called by John D. Rockefeller as the “Carmack Machine”, struck hard on the criminal civilian population. Carmack’s 6-year “War on Crime” envisioned a United States free of the crime and instability ridden tenures of the past, going as strict as possible on any wrongdoers. With the Hancockian Corps in his pocket, it was common sight for BPS agents or the local Hancockian chapter to chase down people on the streets accused with simple crimes. One heavily publicized case involved a 27-year old man, who was brutally beaten after being apprehended for a property damage charge. Carmack’s “masterplan” faced its major opponents and supporters nationwide. Nativist figures that supported his expulsion of the Argentine immigrants such as Representatives James K. Vardaman and John Temple Graves supported Carmack. Those who sought to combat monopoly and corruption power, which Carmack worked heavily to oppose, supported him, such as Representatives Oscar Underwood and William Sulzer and Senators Henry Cabot Lodge and Joseph W. Bailey. Opposing the BPS were the likes of Senators Eugene Debs, Anselm McLaurin, Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr., Marion Butler Representatives Theodore Roosevelt and Francis Bellamy, and Governor Henry George Jr.. All would oppose Carmack for their own person reasons but united in their opposition. On October 1903, all mentioned would sign the “Declaration of National Renouncement”, documents declaration their oppose to the BPS’ handling of national crime, and demanded the resignation of Secretary Carmack and multiple others in the bureau. The declaration would fail in removing Carmack, though it succeeding in bringing the issue to the public spotlight.
Secretary Carmack was one of the polarizing people in the Chaffee government
The public became polarized in their opinions of the War on Crime. The Boston Custer Society, one of the largest public players of President Custer’s tenure, opposed the BPS and their operations. The BSC had already been frustrated at President Chaffee’s attempts at dismantling the Custerite Society and sought to keep the structure created by their patron. The Association for Social Co-operation also opposed the BPS, and especially the Hancockian Corps. Jacob Coxey and his followers would raise $12,000 to victims of “BPS brutality”, as well as holding their common rallies against government policies. Many also supported the BPS’ efforts, particularly war veterans who were granted added benefits directly by Carmack’s department, as well finding employment through the Hanockians. Carmack starkly told reporters outside the Capitol that "...all may curse me as they wish, but all men bow before the same divine judgement."
The Hero and the Villain
SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE
"PRESIDENT CHAFFEE CELEBRATES THIRD YEAR OF PRESIDENCY IN LOS ANGELES" by Vincent Uba, March 4, 1904.
"Almost 100,000 cheering supporters watched on today as the President rode around San Francisco celebrating his third year in office... Accompanied by Vice President George McClellan, Secretary of State Champ Clark, and Secretary to the President and his son Adna Chaffee Jr., signs were raised bearing the names of the members of his administration... Behind all the cheers and excitement, many in the city— and the wider country, wonder if the President would dare to march on into a second term as his enemies begin scheme their next political action."
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President Adna Chaffee was dubbed the “Hero of the Rio de la Plata” during the War of Continental Alliance. Some continue to call him that. Though his enemies call him something very different. Coined by Representative Edward M. House, he dubbed Chaffee the “Ferro-Fiend”, saying he was an iron tyrant. Chaffee’s military background made him unfamiliar with many of the duties of the presidency. This would be used both for and against him. Supporters argued his handling of the country proved he went beyond his lack of knowledge of administration and that he thrived even though he knew little. Critics would claim that Chaffee’s ignorance of the web of governance led him to be weak and surrendered his duties to opportunistic individuals. From an interview, House Speaker John Nance Garner would say “I show my full confidence and supply for the competency of the President and his administration. Based on my own eyes, his capacity to work his duties has been more fruitful than any past administration in my lifetime.”
Chaffee remained mainly quiet from the public scene during his tenure, a stark difference from his rambunctious predecessor. His image in the public eye remained as an either benevolent or malicious head honcho, one who’s quiet but one who everyone knows has power. The society that grew during his tenure would be both similar and different from the Custerite Society he promised to reimagine. On one hand, casual public life would remain the same, the economic and social stability and patriotism and understanding between normal civilians would continue and flourish during his tenure. On the other hand, policies such as the axing of institutions, the open shift towards nationalism, and fear used by the likes of the BPS shows very obvious change in society. The cult of personality adhered by fanatics of the old president would not go away, neither didn’t the radicals who called for drastic change. As the issues of the past faded away, new and prevalent issues would rise to take their place. America enters the 20th century its own friend and enemy.
23rd President of the United States of America, Adna Chaffee
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