I was mostly a longtime lurker, but had commented here and there. I started my weight loss journey as a 5’4 woman right about 240 lbs. Due to my PCOS and the very toxic misinformation in a lot of PCOS subs/support groups in terms of diets and how “no matter what you do it won’t work without medication” I was very hesitant to start and to give all my efforts for “nothing”. Well, that nothing has brought me to current day where I am FINALLY in the 170s. My first goal was set at 160 before a trip in September, but would like to keep going more into the 145-150 range. I’m so thankful for all the information, encouraging posts, highs and lows shared authentically here. I’ve noticed I am more confident, more energy, my body no longer aches, my life feels as if it has more potential again and the best is I have learned to heal my relationship with food. I have learned to enjoy recreating a food or sweet I love into something at a fraction of the calorie base while doing my best to incorporate protein as well. In doing this I have managed to lose 1.8-2.3 lbs a week on average. Some weeks maybe 1 lb some weeks 4 lbs but the average and being consistent is what I have learned matter the most. I started this journey as a scared woman that felt she was doomed to always want and wish for what “those girls” looked like. I’m now in my era of loving myself, my body, my strength. I can’t wait to see what this body of mine looks like in the next few weeks, months, years even. I know this post is horrible with grammar, I am just high on life and seeing how much better things can be. I just wanted to give some hope to some other women who may also be here lurking due to the horrible advice from PCOS groups. You’re not doomed, weight loss is possible, stay consistent. This lifestyle works and I will forever praise it. 🥳💜

It's essential to focus on continual improvement and resilience. Many successful authors faced rejection before achieving success. J.K. Rowling, author of the Harry Potter series, received numerous rejections initially. Stephen King's first novel was rejected dozens of times. Agatha Christie, Dr. Seuss, and Margaret Mitchell all encountered rejection before finding success. Remember, rejection is a part of the journey, and perseverance in honing your craft is key. Focus on refining your writing, seeking feedback, and staying persistent in your pursuit.
Here are a few strategies to help navigate the journey as a writer:

1. Persistency: Keep writing and submitting your work. Each rejection can provide valuable lessons and insights into improving your writing. Don't let setbacks deter you from continuing to create.
   
2. Feedback and Improvement: Seek feedback from peers, writing groups, or mentors. Constructive criticism can help identify areas for improvement and guide your growth as a writer.
   
3. Diversify Submissions: Consider submitting your work to various publishers, agents, or literary magazines. Sometimes, a rejection from one might not reflect the response you'll receive from another.
   
4. Stay Motivated: Surround yourself with inspiration. Read books, attend writing workshops, or engage with other creatives to stay motivated and connected within the writing community.
   
5. Self-Care: Take care of your mental and emotional well-being. Rejections can be tough, so it's crucial to practice self-compassion and maintain a healthy perspective on your writing journey.
   

Remember, many renowned authors faced rejection before achieving success. Your persistence, dedication to improvement, and belief in your craft are vital elements that can lead you toward success as a writer.
6Here are a few more tips to help maintain motivation and progress as a writer:

1. Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable writing goals. Whether it's a daily word count, finishing a chapter, or completing a manuscript by a specific deadline, setting realistic targets can keep you focused and motivated.
   
2. Embrace Revisions: Recognize that writing is rewriting. Embrace the revision process as an opportunity to polish your work. Revisions often lead to stronger storytelling and better-crafted prose.
   
3. Connect with the Writing Community: Engage with other writers through social media, forums, or local writing groups. Networking can provide support, encouragement, and valuable insights into the publishing industry.
   
4. Learn from Rejections: Instead of viewing rejections as failures, consider them as stepping stones toward success. Analyze feedback, if available, and use it constructively to refine your writing.
   
5. Believe in Your Voice: Each writer has a unique voice. Embrace your style and perspective. Authenticity in storytelling often resonates with readers.
   

Lastly, remember that every successful author faced challenges and setbacks along their journey. It's the perseverance, commitment to improvement, and belief in their work that helped them overcome rejection and achieve success. Keep writing, stay resilient, and believe in your potential as a writer.
Here are quotes from some well-known authors who faced rejection before finding success:

1. J.K. Rowling (Author of Harry Potter series):
   

   "Failure meant a stripping away of the inessential. I stopped pretending to myself that I was anything other than what I was, and began to direct all my energy into finishing the only work that mattered to me."
   

2. Stephen King (Author of numerous bestsellers):
   

   "By the time I was fourteen the nail in my wall would no longer support the weight of the rejection slips impaled upon it. I replaced the nail with a spike and kept on writing."
   

3. Agatha Christie (Renowned mystery novelist):
   

   "I don't think necessity is the mother of invention. Invention, in my opinion, arises directly from idleness, possibly also from laziness - to save oneself trouble."
   

4. Dr. Seuss (Author of beloved children's books):
   

   "I like nonsense, it wakes up the brain cells. Fantasy is a necessary ingredient in living. It's a way of looking at life through the wrong end of a telescope."
   

5. Margaret Mitchell (Author of "Gone with the Wind"):
   

   "Life's under no obligation to give us what we expect. We take what we get and are thankful it's no worse than it is."
   

These authors encountered rejection and setbacks on their paths to success but persisted in their writing endeavors, ultimately achieving acclaim for their work. Their quotes reflect their resilience, determination, and belief in their craft despite facing initial rejection.
Here are a few more quotes from authors who experienced rejection before achieving success:

1. Louisa May Alcott (Author of "Little Women"):
   

   "I am not afraid of storms, for I am learning how to sail my ship."
   

2. George Orwell (Author of "1984" and "Animal Farm"):
   

   "Writing a book is a horrible, exhausting struggle, like a long bout of some painful illness. One would never undertake such a thing if one were not driven on by some demon whom one can neither resist nor understand."
   

3. John Grisham (Bestselling author of legal thrillers):
   

   "I faced rejection and constant criticism, but I never let up. I continued to persevere and pursued my writing passion."
   

4. Madeleine L'Engle (Author of "A Wrinkle in Time"):
   

   "You have to write the book that wants to be written. And if the book will be too difficult for grown-ups, then you write it for children."
   

5. Ray Bradbury (Author of "Fahrenheit 451"):
   

   "You must stay drunk on writing so reality cannot destroy you."
   

These authors persisted through rejection, adversity, and doubts, yet remained dedicated to their writing. Their words reflect the perseverance, passion, and determination that ultimately led them to success in the literary world.
💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫💫🐔🐔🐔🐔 So in handling rejection as a writer and finding inspiration from authors who faced rejection before achieving success, this article has provided:

1. Strategies to stay motivated and improve as a writer, including persistence, seeking feedback, diversifying submissions, staying motivated, and practicing self-care.
2. Additional tips like setting goals, embracing revisions, connecting with the writing community, learning from rejections, and embracing your unique voice.
3. Quotes from various renowned authors such as J.K. Rowling, Stephen King, Agatha Christie, Dr. Seuss, Margaret Mitchell, Louisa May Alcott, George Orwell, John Grisham, Madeleine L'Engle, and Ray Bradbury. These quotes highlight their resilience, determination, and belief in their craft despite facing rejection, ultimately leading to their success as authors.

The overarching message is to persist in writing, seek improvement, learn from setbacks, stay connected with the writing community, and believe in your unique voice as a writer, drawing inspiration from the experiences of successful authors who overcame rejection on their paths to success.

The devs are so brilliant. No discord group, barely any twitter posts. Just a Reddit community where people rely on the support of others to keep calm and give the strength the hold on. We all saw what Reddit was able to do to the GameStop stock to keep the whales from manipulating the market. No manipulation of YouTube influencers, or discord groups, or telegrams. Just positive words from average people across the globe. See you all on the moon! Just may take a little longer than most of us would like. We aren’t used to the sloth life…yet

Bynum
State Represenative in the South Portland Metro Area. Has the Democrat's support on the state and federal level and is endorsed by liberal congressional groups. Has a slight fundraising edge over McLeod-Skinner
McLeod-Skinner
The 2022 Nominee that pulled an upset primary victory but went on to lose the general election. She is endorsed by progressive groups. Also had an earlier polling lead but has decreased to become within the margin of error.
View Poll

16-minute read.

pro-West party leader says they met PM Pashinyan and discussed a referendum to solidify Armenia's shift to EU

KHZMALYAN (European Party of Armenia): The referendum is our suggestion and demand. We presented it to Pashinyan and expect a response within a reasonable timeframe. We advised making a public statement soon. A referendum would also make Pashinyan's job easier by allowing the people's will to decide Armenia's direction.
REPORTER: How did Pashinyan respond?
KHZMALYAN: He suggested the meeting be held in a closed format so I can't reveal all details. We hope that our voice, our offer, our demand, was heard. If we do not receive a positive response, we will take measures by employing the same methods currently used by anti-European forces [the ongoing protests led by pro-Russian ex-regime]. We will take to the streets and demand a referendum for Eurointegration if necessary.
REPORTER: How long are you ready to wait before taking action?
KHZMALYAN: A few months. Georgia will hold parliamentary elections in October, and Moldova will hold a similar Eurointegration referendum - also in October. The U.S. will hold presidential elections in November which will be important for Armenia's future. Even if the worst scenario unfolds in all three countries, Armenia must stand firm and not take a step back. Armenia could become the leader in democracy in all of Eastern Europe if you consider the situation in Georgia, Hungary, and Slovakia [pro-Russia populist leader]. Armenia could receive an unprecedented level of assistance from Europe under those circumstances.
REPORTER: Did Pashinyan say he plans to leave CSTO?
KHZMALYAN: We did not demand specific dates but we urged him to complete all these processes this year, preferably by November.
REPORTER: Did Pashinyan agree?
KHZMALYAN: The participants of the meeting are under the impression that we were able to present convincing arguments but time will show what actions he takes. The government functions very poorly but nevertheless, they are doing something, they are taking steps.
REPORTER: On May 9, Bagrat Galstanyan gave Pashinyan 1 hour to resign but it's May 21 and he is still here. Why wasn't the opposition able to remove him?
KHZMALYAN: The 3 former presidents and their surrogate forces, backed by 30 years of power, were unable to bring forward a figurehead, a single ideology, that could win the hearts of the people. They used various political technologies, they switched between black and white robes, and they extended the 1 hour to 7 days, but none of that helped because the Armenian people hate them more than they hate Nikol Pashinyan.
REPORTER: You used to be a lot harsher on Pashinyan but something appears to have changed in your tone after your recent meeting with him. What is the reason?
KHZMALYAN: We were able to present our demands and the timelines to accomplish them. Unlike the archbishop and the former regimes surrounding him, we did not give "one hour" for Pashinyan to accept our demands; we did not make ultimatums. We believe the current government is carrying out and will carry out the will of the people to overcome the status of a Russian colony and join the ranks of free nations. We did and do see steps [taken by the government] towards this; we cannot ignore this. We saw the Strassbourg, but also Moscow. We saw the [April 5 meeting in] Brussels, but also [the recent meeting between FMs in] Almaty. We are told this is an attempt to "balance" and we understand where they are coming from, but our factions speak on behalf of over 60% of Armenians who view Russia's policies as deadly for Armenia. We expect concrete actions and we have formed a platform to continue this work; there will be petitions and other actions from us. We are ready to assist Pashinyan, who may be constrained due to ongoing negotiations, by being the public voice and saying the things he cannot say. We will continue to work, to pressure, to influence, to demand. Our meetings also continue abroad. We will press on until we reach our goal - the Eurointegration of Armenia. //
Several prominent Western-oriented political parties recently formed an alliance to promote Armenia's Eurointegration.
video,

Pashinyan appoints a ruling party member as a deputy head of the newly formed Foreign Intelligence Service - the Armenian "CIA"

After the 2020 war, Pashinyan said Armenia will need a modern intel agency to gather information and analyze foreign threats, while the NSS -- described as historically a "pro-Russian" agency by many -- will focus on internal matters.
source,

Pashinyan met the deputy head of the United States CIA to discuss bilateral, international, and regional issues

A delegation led by David Cohen is in Yerevan. Cohen also met NatSec Armen Grigoryan.
source, source,

Armenia's Investigative Committee chief hosted U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs

Qyaramyan and Yoder discussed bilateral cooperation, the recent retraining for Armenian agents and technical assistance, cooperation between law enforcement agencies of Armenia and the United States, anti-narcotrafficking, and the fight against gender-based violence.
Yoder also met Armenia's Interior Minister Ghazaryan to discuss the ongoing police reforms and formation of new divisions, the fight against narco-trafficking, technical assistance for rescuers, and retraining courses. Yoder emphasized effective cooperation, noting that the achievements within the framework of sectorial reforms are exceptional. The US wants to expand the agenda of cooperation.
source, source,

Armenian army officers continue to take part in NATO exercises titled Regex 2024 held in Moldova

GOOGLE TRANSLATE: The exercise is organized with the support of the NATO Joint Forces Command in Naples, Italy, and aims to train the military according to Western standards for planning and conducting exercises, crisis management, strengthening and assessing the level of interoperability of forces in a multinational environment.
We remind you that the exercise "Regex 2024" consists of several workshops during the current year. The first workshop took place between February 16 and March 1, and the second between 22 − April 26, 2024. //
source, source,

NATO and Armenia strengthen cooperation in defense education

Armenia's defense ministry representatives recently visited NATO headquarters to discuss NATO’s Defence Education Enhancement Programme (DEEP) for Armenia.
NATO: The DEEP programme is an excellent tool to support Armenian military education system reforms and strengthen the country’s cooperation with NATO.
ARMENIA: With the support of DEEP experts we implemented major changes in all levels of our educational curriculum at Military Academy, starting from cadets up to the most senior levels. It helped us to establish cooperation with many international partner institutions.
source,

Armenia is an emerging destination for UK and global investors: Armenia's Ambassador to London Business Matters

👔 Armenia is committed to building a knowledge-based, export-oriented, and inclusive economy.
👔 Armenia is diversifying its growing economy with pioneering sectors, creating ample investment opportunities.
👔 Armenia’s investment legislation grants equal treatment to foreign investors
👔 There are no restrictions on remittances and repatriation of profits, free exchange of foreign currencies and no limitations on staff recruitment
👔 The country’s favorable business climate and ‘open-door’ policy is also reflected in international reputable rankings where Armenia is ranked one of the highest in the region.
👔 Although Armenia has a relatively modest internal market, it offers different models of economic cooperation and serves as a gateway to major world markets
👔 Armenia has maintained a high level of cooperation with the EU through CEPA
👔 Armenia and UK will soon have a CEPA-like agreement
full article, source,

Turkey modernizes an Azerbaijani Su-25ML jet with guided bombs and Teber missiles

It uses KGK laser guidance for missiles and increases the reach to 110 km.
source,

Pashinyan's Chief of Staff hosted the French Ambassador to discuss defense, economy, infrastructure, and humanitarian topics

... also the upcoming events dedicated to the 100th anniversary of Charles Aznavour.
source,

Parliament Speakers of Armenia and Ukraine discuss the situation in the South Caucasus and Ukraine

source,

Q&A with ruling party MP Vahagn Alexanyan about the ongoing protests led by pro-Russian opposition

REPORTER: You continue to criticize the "holy movement"...
ALEXANYAN: The what now?
REPORTER: ... the "holy movement", by calling it a "pagan" movement. What is the ruling party's stance and do you discuss this internally?
ALEXANYAN: Of course we do, although I don't think Kocharyan's decision to name this movement "holy" is helping them. It's comical.
REPORTER: Do you have proof that Bagrat srbazan is [tied with Kocharyan]?
ALEXANYAN: Bagrat Galstanyan is surrounded by the entire political team of Robert Koharyan, he was a member of Kocharyan's 2022 protests and gave similar speeches he gives today, he received a praise from Russian propagandists, and he was named by a Russian propagandist Aram Gabrielyanov as a potential candidate for a new protest movement just a few months prior to these events, so it's beyond reasonable doubt that Bagrat Galstanyan is part of Kocharyan's team.
REPORTER: You were earlier accusing Galstanyan of being a Russian agent, and now Kocharyan's agent?
ALEXANYAN: Same thing.
REPORTER: The opposition gathered many thousands of supporters on May 9. What does the size of the crowd indicate?
ALEXANYAN: It was similar to Kocharyan's final rally before the 2021 elections. And?
REPORTER: The opposition created a video of "Pashinyan's lies" and broken promises. Will you respond?
ALEXANYAN: The clip itself is a lie and manipulation. For example, one of the supposed lies was Pashinyan's promise of an amnesty for overdue fines and penalties. You are a journalist, you tell me, was there an amnesty or not?
REPORTER: Pashinyan had also said that POWs could wait "just a few more months" and that he wouldn't "sacrifice Armenia's sovereignty" in exchange for bringing them back sooner. Why aren't they back?
ALEXANYAN: Dozens of POWs returned home in December, and efforts continue to bring back the rest. Literally 1-2 days before the POWs' return, the opposition claimed that the POWs were "forgotten" by the government. "Ոչ մի բան չեք անում:"
REPORTER: What about the Nagorno-Karabakh leadership?
ALEXANYAN: There are efforts to return them as well.
REPORTER: Why did the police form a wall to block entry to village Kirants [for nonresidents]?
ALEXANYAN: I think the NSS said they had to take action to prevent interference with the border work. From what I can tell, the protest leader himself went there yesterday and returned only 15 minutes later so there wasn't a big desire to stay there apparently.
REPORTER: They plan to hold a big rally on May 26 where they might nominate Bagrat srbazan as the PM's candidate to replace Pashinyan.
ALEXANYAN: Why not go straight for [alleged narco baron] Mihran Poghosyan [who publicly praised the protests]?
REPORTER: There appears to be a consensus around Bagrat srbazan after a meeting between several forces.
ALEXANYAN: Consensus minus one, where "minus one" is the people. Or to be more precise, "minus two", because the Constitution also prohibits Bagrat from serving as a prime minister. Congratulations on an initiative that's dead on arrival. It's absurd. They suggested replacing the Constitution to allow a dual citizen to serve as PM. Okay... To get Canadian citizenship you have to take an oath to serve the best interests of Canada. To allow dual citizens to serve as PM in Armenia we have to accept for the PM to have loyalty towards another state. The alternative is for the candidate [Bagrat] to admit that his word [oath to Canada] wasn't worth a dime. Երևի մատերը խաչ արած ա երդվել։
REPORTER: But don't you think you are manipulating because Galstanyan received Canadian citizenship just to be able to serve in the church in Canada? He didn't go there to live or conduct business.
ALEXANYAN: It doesn't matter why he went to Canada. He is a citizen of Canada and took an oath. Even religious leaders with dual citizenship cannot become prime ministers. I don't have an issue with him being a dual citizen, but it limits his office options. He still hasn't renounced his Canadian citizenship even after all these talks about a possible nomination.
REPORTER: Galstanyan said he is ready to renounce it as soon as there is a need for it.
ALEXANYAN: In other words, he seeks "guarantees" that he will be the candidate in order to renounce it?
full,source, source,

opposition churchman Bagrat Galstanyan demands the Armenian government compensate the damage done to the church during USSR and "return" the properties "legally belonging" to the church

This was said as a response to the critics of the church leadership who accused the church of turning into a political party and suggested taxing the church like a business.
BAGRAT: We have 19th-century churches that were forcefully confiscated and turned into ruins. The properties of the Armenian church must be returned to the church. The area of Moscow Cinema belongs to the church, half of the Katoghike Church was demolished and belongs to the church, and part of the items in Matenadaran were taken away from the church. Instead of threatening us with taxes, they must think about how they plan to return our properties, fully renovated and ready for service.
source,

the church is actually paying taxes but they do have some exemptions

The church paid $1 million in income taxes last year.
There are tax exemptions to import certain goods deemed for charity. They also don't pay property tax, and taxes on income generated from the sales of ceremonial accessories. The latter two are the frequent targets of church critics.
source,

Armenia's Constitutional Court has a vacant seat. Pro-Russian opposition criticizes Pashinyan's ruling party for favoring a "George Soros-linked" judge who worked for U.S. State Department.

A Serj-era judge is leaving the Constitutional Court after receiving a job offer elsewhere so one seat is vacant. It is the judiciary's turn to nominate a CC judge, so hundreds of judges recently held a meeting and voted for Judge Balayan as their candidate. Balayan's father was a CC judge during Kocharyan's tenure. He was accused in the Wikileaks report of having inappropriate deals with President Kocharyan. Pashinyan's ruling party did not vote to approve Balayan. This led to a second gathering of hundreds of judges where they voted to nominate Judge Khachaturyan as their candidate. The parliament summoned him for Q&A on Tuesday.
SPEAKER: We invite the representative of the judiciary to present their nominee for CC.
JUDICIARY REP: 267 judges voted. Judge Davit Khachaturyan, a member of the Criminal Chamber of the Court of Cassation, won the majority votes.
2000-2005: [blah blah blah]
2003-2006: Legislative Assistance Project Manager at Southern Caucasus Anti-Drug (SCAD) Program, sponsored by European Union and implemented by United Nations Development Program
2006: Program Assistant at U.S. Embassy in Armenia, Bureau for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL)
2007-2013: U.S. Embassy in Armenia, U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Legal Specialist
2014: Academy of Justice of the Republic of Armenian-Russian, Vice-Rector and Lecturer
2015-2016: Council of Europe Office in Yerevan, Program “Strengthening Health Care and Human Rights Protection in Prisons in Armenia”, Legal Expert
2016: EU project “Development and Strategic Studies”, Expert on Judiciary and Human Rights field reforms
2015-2017: EU project “ENP Progress Reports and Assessment Reports on Armenia´s Compliance with GSP+ obligations”. Expert on Rule of Law/Justice.
2013–2020: Law Faculty of Yerevan State University. Lecturer. Development and teaching of courses for the Master Program: “European Standards for the human rights protection in criminal proceedings”, and “Professional Skills of a Lawyer”
etc.
OPPOSITION MP: The ruling faction earlier chose not to confirm the appointment of Judge Davit Balayan; they obviously prefer Davit Khachaturyan. Can you explain why you didn't mention that Khachaturyan served on the board of directors and later as the president of the board at George Soros's Armenia-based Open Society Foundations? How will this record impact his work at CC?
JUDICIARY REP: I presented parts of his professional activities available on the court's public platforms. You can ask the candidate directly.
OPPOSITION MP: The Soros Foundation publicly listed him as a member so I don't understand why it's being hidden now. In your opinion, how will his work at the Soros Foundation affect his impartiality?
JUDICIARY REP: The majority of judges chose him and it's up to Parliament whether to confirm or reject.
RULING MP: Was the voting held in a closed session or can you see how each judge voted?
JUDICIARY REP: It's a closed format. My duty here is to present the candidate. [basically, leave me alone I'm just doing my job]
RULING MP: Why not make the court voting and internal discussions more transparent for the public to see so we will have fewer conspiracy theories on why one judge was preferred over the other?
JUDICIARY REP: I share the view that it needs to be as public as possible but the majority of judges voted to keep the session closed to the press.
RULING MP: Just because the discussions and the vote were behind closed doors that doesn't mean it was anti-democratic, but still, it's better to publicize the process. We hope to see a change in this approach.
JUDICIARY REP: The ballot casting will always be secret and I think that's the right approach in order to allow judges to express themselves without constraints, but I agree that the discussions and speeches should be public. Either way whatever we discuss behind closed doors always reaches the press so in practice there isn't really a major transparency issue there.
CANDIDATE KHACHATURYAN: First, every part of my biography has always been public and part of public discussions. Second, I have always voted in favor of making internal discussions open to the press; it's the best way to avoid incorrect assumptions. Full speech here.
OPPOSITION MP: Congratulations. The ruling party intends to approve your candidacy just as they voted for you in the past for other positions. In all of those instances, you didn't mention your work at the Сорос Foundation. Now, a very interesting coincidence [drumroll... are you guys ready for this bombshell?], during the same time while you worked at Сорос foundation, in 2006-2013, you were also a U.S. Embassy employee [got 'em]. //
Nikol Pashinyan has resigned.
Tavush stretches all the way to Russia.
Bagrat srbazan becomes the Supreme Leader of Historical Soil & Water and the Generalissimos of Slow-Melting Candles... and of course removes the speed cameras from highways.
OPPOSITION MP (continues): With this biography, how do we know you are not an agent of foreign influence?
CANDIDATE KHACHATURYAN: I was not an "employee" at the Soros Foundations. Other famous figures have served on the Board [mentions a famous doctor]. Everyone who was part of the Board had duties but it was not really an "employment". As for my simultaneous work with the U.S. Justice Department, there was no conflict with my membership or presidency at the Board because the latter was fully a public activity and we were only given a symbolic sum to compensate for our expenses; we are talking about less than $100/mo. I will let you be the judge regarding an agent of influence. There is a lot that's missing from my biography that read here [lists some boring constitutional research work, etc.].
OPPOSITION MP: You keep being "promoted" by the ruling party without having the chance to finish your terms. The longest job you've ever held was at the Сорос Foundation - 8 years. The brother of the head of the Anti-Corruption Committee, who is about to join the CC, cannot be impartial. Again, what guarantees can you present that you are not a [Western] agent?
CANDIDATE KHACHATURYAN: Your expectation for guarantees stems from the assumption that the [Open Society Foundations] were engaged in activities other than the ones they were actually engaged in. I won't present any "guarantees" because there is no "threat" to begin with. As I've said, that part of my biography has always been discussed publicly and the activities were public and covered by the press.
RULING MP: In your speech you spoke about the judiciary in the U.S. and brought examples. The U.S. doesn't have a Constitutional Court. Don't you think we should also merge the Constitutional and [Cassations Court] with the upcoming referendum to have one Supreme Court with corresponding chambers?
CANDIDATE KHACHATURYAN: I support having one unified body like in the U.S., or clarifying the duties to prevent each body from interfering with the other. Lengthy answer.
OPPOSITION MP: A person [in Kirants] received permission [from USSR] to build a house and live in it. Then the [Armenian] government told him there was a mistake [after the clarification of borders]. Some 50 years after this incident, what would your verdict be in this case?
CANDIDATE KHACHATURYAN: I understand the context. This issue is the task of the Prime Minister and Foreign Minister and we cannot interfere in each other's institutions. I assume there will be a peace agreement eventually that will be sent to the Constitutional Court for examination, therefore I will refrain from making prejudgments now in order to be allowed to take part in future processes.
full video, source, source,

anti-corruption: Armenian authorities conclude that luxury Dubai property belonging to former regime MP's relative was not obtained illegally by him therefore will not be sized as part of an asset forfeiture case

Mher Sedrakyan (Tokhmakhi Mher) is a Serj-era MP whose family is going through an asset forfeiture case worth ֏7.5 billion ($19.3 million) that includes 22 real estate properties, cars, and company shares registered under his name and the names of immediate family members.
Additionally, investigative journalists recently found a luxury property in Dubai registered under the ex-MP's relative. Authorities have concluded that he is not the true ownebeneficiary of this Dubai apartment, therefore it won't be seized.
source,

the army concludes exercises for commanders

Context in May 14 news digest. The defense ministry says they have noted improvements and deficiencies and will take steps to correct them.
source,

Defense Minister Papikyan visited the frontlines and the newly built fortifications: PHOTO

The army continues to dig, asphalt, and build.
source,

Armenia's Foreign Minister met the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency during an international forum

ROSSI: Effective cooperation has been established between Armenia and the IAEA. We discussed several issues on the bilateral agenda, oncology and radiation medicine, safety, and reliable operation of the Armenian NPP.
MIRZOYAN: We plan to extend the lifespan of Metsamor NPP until 2036 while exploring new opportunities.
source,

Armenian lawyers went a strike on Tuesday to protest a bill that would move them from a turnover tax-based system to a VAT-based taxation

Context on the gray economy and why the government wants to gradually abolish the turnover tax system in May 2 news digest.
A group of lawyers said on Tuesday that their 5% turnover tax [for annual turnover under ֏119M] will become 10% this year, and in 2025 they will be required to switch to a 20% VAT/18% profit tax. The cost of legal services for many clients could increase by over 38%, they warned.
The Ombudsman and the Justice Ministry reportedly oppose this bill by the Finance Ministry.
source, source, source, source,

video shows the new payment terminals in Yerevan subway station

They plan to replace all gates next month. The Soviet-era tokens (zheton) are being replaced with QR codes, an app, and later - bank cards.
All stations will have payment terminals to purchase QR tickets. It prints out a paper with QR. Telcell's app lets you buy a ticket and instantly get a QR on the phone's screen.
Seniors who can't use "high-tech" can approach the token sellers and get a QR paper instead of a token.
video,

Yerevan will host an exhibition on Charles Aznavour’s 100th anniversary

Hundreds of rare artifacts will present the life and legacy of the legendary artist.
Location: National Museum-Institute of Architecture
Date: May 22-July 22
source,

Germany wants to purchase an Armenian man

Dortmund Borussia is interested in the services of Armenian national Edward Spertsyan as a replacement for departing Marco Reus.
During this season, midfielder Spertsyan has played 32 matches, scored 11 goals, and made 7 assists. His ass is worth €18 million.
source,

This year was my first EDCLV sober ever since my first EDCLV back in 2011! For context, I don’t consider myself to of had any substance abuse issues, I just wanted to take care of my body more now that I am in my mid 30s and trying to live a more healthy and balanced lifestyle.
Wanted to post some general thoughts and my experience with it:

1. I was worried at first about lasting all night long for 3 days, but surprisingly I did! How? I don’t know honestly, the pure energy of the crowd, my friends, and the extremely loud music and blasting lasers were enough stimulation that I rarely felt like I couldn’t hang with my friends. I didn’t adjust my sleep schedule at all in the days prior, in fact i got less sleep the night before because of traveling into Vegas.
   
2. Because my sleep schedule was messed up, i got very sleep after each night of edc. Here was how much sleep I got after each day, Day 1 - 5 hrs of sleep, Day 2 - 4 hours, and Day 3 - 3 hrs before I had to catch my flight back home on Monday.
   
3. Advil is super helpful! Each night I only ate 2 advils around 2am and that was enough to keep me awake until 5AM, in addition to make me not feel the pain in my feet from dancing and standing all night.
   
4. At the beginning of edc my friends were joking that, “wouldn’t it be funny if you were the last person standing out of all us.” Well I WAS THE LAST STANDING, among my friends. I had the most energy still and was the only person able to drive us back to our airbnb each night. Everyday we left the venue around 4:30-5am
   
5. Music is the only drug I need. I really enjoyed walking around to different stages, if there was a DJ that i didn’t like or felt tired, i went to a different stage and immediately felt awake more. For example my friends wanted to stay for Fisher (crazy crowd), and within 15 mins i just wasn’t feeling the music, and felt sleepy, I considered going back to the car to sleep. I left the group and saw Trym instead at Neon Garden, he was throwing some hard techno beats and I woke up immediately and was able to rage until the end.
   
6. You can still keep the PLUR spirit alive while sober. I connected with a lot of strangers, gave out as much gum as I had on me, saw people sitting down and gave some massages and vicks and water to anyone who needed it. In fact I felt like I had even more PLUR to give now that I was sober because I was able to pay attention more to others around me, vs sometimes getting more focused on yourself when not.
   
7. I remember EDC SO MUCH MORE! The sets the people the experience ☺️
   
8. THE BEST PART - NO HANGOVER OR COMEDOWN. JUST PURE BLISS AND HAPPINESS ☺️😭
   

This may be one of my favorite EDCs EVER! Thank you to all the amazing people I met, my friends for supporting me with this new phase of my life, and of course the wonderful EDC community. PLUR and see you next year sober!

Hello,
I've been trying to do endless research about potential acting conservatory programs in NYC to try and apply to for the fall, but it has been very tricky to find up to date information from people who have actually engaged in the programs. I feel like I've read every post and comment relating to the topic, and don't feel any closer to knowing what is best. It sounds like a lot has been changing, and you can't just rely on the 'name brand' of some of these places. I already have a bachelors, and want to have more experience before deciding to apply to MFA programs.
Right now my top picks are:

1. Terry Knickerbocker - I've heard some pretty great things about him, he seems to have the most vocal supporters, but there are also a couple of naysayers saying he's potentially emotionally abusive? Out of all of the curriculums though, I like his the best. Since this seems to be a newer studio though, its really tricky to figure out what the reputation really is, and the fact that you can't audit at all is a bit scary. I like that he is closer to the source now that EspeFlanigan don't seem to teach.
2. William Esper - This has been personally recommended to me, and I plan on reading his book soon to get a firmer grasp on what to expect, but some people also seem to think it has declined considerably since Esper died and Terry left. Any thoughts?
3. Maggie Flannigan - Sounds like this place is pretty intense and professional, which I'm totally into, but I can't seem to get a good grasp on how it stacks up to the two above.
4. T. Schreiber - The fact that its only a one year commitment is a bit of an easier pill to swallow, and that it draws from all the various methods.
5. Stella Adler seems to have a decent rep? But there also seems to be some mixed opinions about the atmosphere, and I don't know if I'm ready for a 3 year commitment yet.

I've missed the deadline for Atlantic, though it seems well respected. I'm skeptical of Strasberg's teachings, though the program is logistically appealing. Seems like HB Studio puts you in the normal classes with hobbyists. I've heard that Barrow Group is a bit slow, and the one year program seems less focused on foundational craft and more on practical stuff (which I'm sure is great, just not what I'm looking for right now). Neighborhood Playhouse seems outdated, Circle in the Square doesn't seem to be very popular...
I would really love to hear any anecdotes about these programs! What have you heard, who do you recommend? What do you think will provoke the fastest growth? I've already reached out to a couple to get some more direct info, but I think I trust personal experience a tad more. Would it better to just seek out individual teachers in each subject instead?
Thank you so much for your help!!!

This is meant to shed light on experiences of how we are treated aside from in medical settings. This is about how parents, siblings, children, people in our own homes, other family, friends and acquaintances, and authority figures and peers in the workplace and in school/academia may treat us. TYIA
I want to start a support group for those of us abused due to this. If you'd be interested or think this is needed, comment on this post to boost and message me if you want notified once I put something together.
View Poll

Trigger warning: pregnancy loss support question/stillbirth. I’m terribly sorry for the losses of every one in this group, I’m hoping for some guidance on how to help my friend.
My friend suddenly and unexpectedly lost her baby a few days ago, 3 weeks before their due date. We live in different states, so I’m trying to figure out how to best support her from afar.
I sent a DoorDash gift card and a text saying how sorry I am and that I’m here for whatever she needs, even if it’s space. Is there anything else I can do? I read that flowers, self help books, even cards can be overwhelming and upsetting so I don’t want to overload her with grief gifts…
Would a gift card for a massage be a good idea for when she’s ready? Is it too much to send a text once a week just sending her love? Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

I'm all messed up over my TA right now
Can't tell if she's super into me or if she's just used me for attention and now that she's got me sucked in and she doesn't want me anymore
We've been flirting all term, sometimes I make her laugh so hard she cries, she always goes way above her station to do favors for me and checks in with me later so I know all the ways she's helped me, and has sometime hinted she wants to do something after class (which I lack the nerve to act on but also fear I'm misinterpreting -- like she'll say "I'm really hangry, I could go for pad Thai" at the end of class). Last week she showed up in our regular class (which she's never done before) to announce ways to connect with our department outside of regular class hours -- only thing is she didn't stand in front of class, which would have made sense, she stood directly across from me and stared at me the whole time, locking eyes with me as she left the room. My lab partner was sick when we actually had lab later that day so she offered to be my partner (saying "unless you don't need any help..." which I quicky said I'd love her help)-- we had a deep life talk and I had a chance to talk about some of the legitimately amazing experiences in my life -- what both of our hopes and dreams are and what each of us are doing in the near future, I also told her about the business I just opened and let her know that yes I am a stable adult with a work history and life plan. I asked her polite questions about what she's doing with her life after college as well as what her personality is like in daily life, and was also being really supportive and sweet to her because she feels really confused about what to do when she finishes her masters program. As the period went on we were both talking sweetly, almost lovey dovey to each other. The other group finished lab that day and wanted to hang out in class (because she's the pretty TA) but she told them there was no reason to hang around, basically rushing them out the door, so that we were alone for like an hour. She started singing really beautifully to me and started being very understanding towards me. She asked if I was a "pacer" when I was getting a little anxious, and I told her "Albert Einstein went on a two hour stroll every night -- whenever I'm doing a dumb thing, I just remember a smart person who did it." Which made her smile.
Then she stood really close to me and swayed side to side, and I just stood there staring at her pretty face as both of us kind of just smiled warmly at each other. We were both being very open with each other and I was about to ask her if she wanted to get food later, but then our professor walked in and both of us got nervous and started rapidly explaining why we were alone together.
She even took off her lab coat and started walking around in what I could only explain as "strutting" like she was giving me permission to check her out. She sat directly over my back pack so when I left I had to tell her I was going to reach under her, which she said "I'm sorry (my name)" in a very sweet and seductive tone of voice to me.
I ended up not going to the department get together the next day because I was so overwhelmed with anxiety at home and woke up so late I would have to rush there to get to it.
I had lab yesterday and the connection still felt like a warm flowing river. She sat across from me and both of us just kind of sat there smiling at each other. I had her laughing and red faced pretty quickly, even in front of the teacher I had giggling. I did start to kind of lose my shit when the professor came in and was asking me about my project with her there, also because my lab partner was still gone. I started inadvertently using the interaction to hint that I don't know what the TA (who I am now totally infatuated with) is really thinking, and worried that she's just torturing me for her own amusement. I decided to leave early that day because I felt weird without my lab partner there. I'd basically just be sitting there not doing anything except pining over the pretty TA. First I left to get a coffee and was pacing in front of the building, having an anxiety rehearsal over working up the courage to ask her to get pizza after class. Funnily enough my professor came out and held the door open for me asking if I'd like to go in and I kind of blew up a little and was like, "OH SHIT I DON'T KNOW IF I WANT TO GO BACK IN, WELL I GUESS I GOTTA MY STUFF IS STILL IN THERE." As she walked away she smiled at me both knowingly and warmly and told me to have a good rest of my evening.
I went back in to get my stuff but I felt too weird not doing anything as all the other groups around me worked together, so I asked my TA "Is this all we're doing today?" She said "Yeah" and then I gathered up my stuff to leave and she said in kind of a sad tone, "Oh, well I guess if you have stuff to do today." Then I started asking her how many classes we have left like an actual kicked puppy (WE ONLY HAVE ONE MORE IN PERSON MEETING DUE TO MEMORIAL DAY) as well as details about our assignments (which she actually started to get firm with me because I was starting to act dumb in front of everyone) before leaving. She said "Bye" really sweetly to me as I walked out and I said "See ya" like a small child that had just been scolded.
At the start of the term she mentioned having a boyfriend to the class (and to a guy that was hitting on her), but she hasn't mentioned him since, and has never once brought him up with me when I basically hit on her the entire class.
GWAAAAH!
I might actually need to go to her office hours for help with my project (like actually legit need help) but other than that the only time I'll see her is when we all give our presentations. I'm afraid I won't have the courage to ask her for pizza or for her number. That the moment will never happen, or that I'll have to weirdly wait until everyone has left to not ask her in front of everyone.

Many years ago, I began the journey of entering a PhD program in Psychology. I knew what I was up against. Lots of hard work and not getting paid for it! Possibly 6-7 years of classes, writing papers, and of course the dreaded dissertation.
I started the program and after a few classes, I thought I can do this. But that was just the class part of the PhD program. After the first two years of classes, I was ready to take the comp review exam, and get started on my research. Again, I was okay and ready to move forward.
I passed the comp exam on the first try and what a relief. Now on to the dissertation. I knew I wanted to research gambling disorder but in what context? It took a good year or two to figure that out.
After much thought and this is the abridged version, I wanted to research what a problem gambler can do to be successful in recovery. Gambling disorder is an insidious one that takes lives and ruins many in financial and spiritual ways. But there are those out there with months or years of staying away from gambling behavior. What do they have that maybe others do not.
Well, the answer is support. All of my participants stated having support was the single most important factor in staying away from gambling.
So what is this support? In a nutshell, it is whatever you want it to be. It comes in many different forms and you will need to figure out what kind of support you need to stay gambling free.
For me, it was GA meetings, my husband, my family, friends, therapy, and groups.
Recovery should never be done alone. You will need people to talk to and to find those that share in your recovery efforts. Stay away from those who might say, you can't do this, or you will relapse again. Surround yourself with positive individuals.
Now that we have these groups online, we can also share with others here and other sites.
Find your support however you need to. Be consistent and honest about yourself and what you are facing each day you are in recovery.
I will continue to post here in this group as a way to support those that might need it.

[this does not constitute any investment advice, just purely my own opinion]
just like an on-going war, there will be days where it gets easier, and there will be days where it is the toughest. the toughest days of these battle was on 14 may 2024 to 17 may 2024.

• 14 may: volume 1.57B, 10.31% short sale ratio
• 15 may: volume 1.35B, 11.34% short sale ratio
• 16 may: volume: 1.14B, 13.19% short sale ratio
• 17 may: volume: 1.31B, 14.76% short sale ratio
• 18 may: volume: 701.67M, 8.35% short sale ratio

notice how the short ratio kept increasing, and until 17 may, it was at the highest. that was also the day where the price went to a high of almost $4, then down to $1.
logically and technically speaking, if this war has to fail, it already would have on Friday after-market hours. Prices would have just wane off, leaving the late buyers high and dry, losing their money. And this whole episode will just go down into history quietly without anybody mentioning about it again because it is embarassing.
However, prices short up after-market hours. this tells me there are renewed interest in the stocks. whatever share that is being sold, could have been bought up by a new buyer. hopefully a wise one, because a new and wise buyer would have strong holding power.
The price attempted to sell off again on monday. But to no avail, as soon as it reach the low of $1.20, it got scooped up quickly. Again, this indicate buying sentiment at low prices still exist. Otherwise, the price would have crash through.
Right now, Tuesday, there is a strong support at the $1.20 - $1.25 range. After 4 days of selling by shorties, the Short Interest has increased from 95.xx% to 96.78%. That means a new increase. This would mean that the short squeeze, if it does materialise eventually, is getting nearer and easier. Because with increased short interest, it'll mean that there are less float. With less float, less capital is required to buy them all up and stash them into your war chest and hold. When finally there is no more float around, it is here where it starts cracking. Prices gets bidded up very very quickly due to the limited supply.
Imagine this, you went to the market and bought onions from every stall. now, you own all the onions and nobody else has it. since now u've all the onions, you can dictate the price you want to sell at, and watch the uncles aunties cry when they buy the onion from you at sky high price. T_T
Also, data do not lie. my data from my broker consistently shows that, at the end of each trading session the S and M trade size are showing net outflow consistently over the past few days. There is only 1 group, the XL trade size that is consistently showing net inflow. that is the group that is giving me the confidence to hold.
From technical pattern perspective, there is a strong support zone at $1.20 - $1.25 range. Selling truimphs for monday and tuesday, but has weaken. as you can see, the slope sliding down is less steep. This is accompanied by the data where short sale ratio decreasing, and short interest increasing. Also in the daily chart, we've formed a ascending flag, and we are reaching the tip-end of a triangular flag. On Wed or Thu, I would be expecting a sharp breakout on either side.

I was told yesterday by my bosses that this summer, I am expected to continue providing support for a child I work with who has different needs. I am also supposed to be someone who his aide can apparently consult if she needs support. I have been working with this child for nearly a year now, typically for 3 hours a day at most. For the last two months, I have been told that the child was supposed to be in a different location for summer, though I understand that a recent meeting with the child’s parents is part of the reason behind the change.
I am someone who struggles quite a bit with change, and this threw me off. I was also told that I will be expected to change this child’s diaper (child is 4 and not potty trained, almost 4 1/2 I think. The child tends to have blowouts, like feces running down their legs, which is why this newfound information threw me off.) The child tends to run away from the group and although I am young, I suspect that over summer trying to help them stay with the group (they are nonverbal and don’t tend to come back or respond if asked to remain with the group) will be difficult, as you’ll sometimes have to run over and go get them. I feel as though I don’t truly have enough experience working with this child to provide them with the support I will likely be expected to provide for them in the afternoons. I did sort of communicate this to my employers and suggested I’ll likely be asking a lot of questions and will communicate if I need the support. But I feel like that sounds like a lot of responsibility. I will make $18/hr.
I also admittedly feel as though I perhaps will not be paid enough to handle said responsibilities. I make $17 an hr and start making $18 an hr this summer, will be working full time (7 hours daily, until college courses resume in mid August.) Last month, I was told I’d be receiving this dollar pay increase. I started as a sub on more or less the first day of August 2023, and became an assistant teacher in January 2024. I was initially satisfied with the 1-dollar pay increase, but what I was told about my summer responsibilities in regards to this child have made me wonder if I should request a little more ($19 an hour or $20 an hour.) I will also be expected to help out a different teacher with our group of kids in the mornings, what I was hearing all sounds like a lot for a teaching assistant. I’m holding back on it, though. I’m a young adult with no college degree (yet.)
My coworkers who I checked in with today seemed to agree that requesting $20 an hour is reasonable. At my evaluation last month I was told I’ll be making a dollar more. I did send them a text mentioning, basically, that I think a greater pay increase is reasonable and would like to meet to discuss it before the second week of June. I know my coworkers are paid more than me.
View Poll

I hope this letter finds you well. To begin, I was drawn to this topic through social media posts that shared dozens of records detailing the abuse and deaths of hundreds of children in these therapy programs. I have often wondered, how can these programs be allowed to cause this amount of trauma to teens and children? This inspired me to look deeper into the troubled teen industry and understand why paid “caregivers” have put so many in danger. If we want to protect the wellbeing of these teens, we must find a solution to regulating these industries. Without increased laws and regulations we continue to place America’s children into potential death traps. Now what is a wilderness therapy program? Wilderness therapy programs, on the surface, seem like a promising solution for troubled teens, offering a blend of nature immersion and psychiatric support. However, the roots of the troubled teen industry date back to the 1970s, with reports of abuse surfacing early on. Shockingly, despite decades of outcry and documentation of fatalities, political inertia persists, and federal oversight remains lacking. It is understandable that parents want their children to be happy, respectful, and well-mannered. However, in an attempt to do what is right for their struggling child, parents may turn to the troubled teen industry. Currently, according to the American Bar Association, there are thousands of teenagers in these programs within the U.S, programs that often induce trauma and abuse, even causing the deaths of their children. So, why do parents continue to put their children into these programs? Is the fear of losing the “perfect” family leading parents to enrolling their children into these troubled teens’ wilderness programs? So why do parents enroll their children in these awful facilities? Simple answer: manipulation. The troubled teen industry (TTI) often manipulates parents through a series of insidious tactics. For instance, leveraging fear by exaggerating the risks associated with a child's behavior and creating a sense of imminent danger. Isolation tactics further reinforce this urgency, convincing parents that the facility is their sole recourse. These industries hire workers framed as “education consultants” that utilize high-pressure sales strategies to exploit parental anxiety, and present their TTI program as the only viable option. In an article by USAtoday, reporters held interviews of parents and teens who experienced a TTI program at Evoke, a Utah facility. "I was just an anxious mom. I loved (Katelyn) to death," Tessie, Katelyn’s mom, says, "I was so desperate and desperately wanting to save my child from herself" (USAtoday). Programs offer promises of rapid transformation and they prey on parental desperation for quick, easy fixes. Emotional manipulation adds another layer, playing on a parents guilt and insecurity. By showcasing selective success stories and controlling information flow, they obscure potential risks and alternatives. Stigmatizing the child's behavior further pressures parents into compliance, painting their facility as the sole refuge from societal judgment. "’[Evoke] just made it seem like (she was) such a rotten kid and that she couldn't come home after the wilderness program,’ Tessie says, instead [Evoke suggested] Katelyn go to an aftercare program” (USAtoday). In this web of manipulation, parents often find themselves coerced into decisions they later regret, unaware of the nuanced realities obscured by these tactics. In an article from the “Cafemoms” blog titled My Daughter Was a Victim of the 'Troubled Teen' Industry & It Haunts Me to This Day, a mother recounts her perspective of the tactics used by Island View (IV) treatment center to send her sixteen year old daughter to their facilities. “We trusted the [education consultant] when he said IV was the best program in the country and the best fit for Colleen. What the [education consultant] didn’t tell us was that the reason so many IV grads did so well after graduation is because nearly all of them went straight from IV to another residential treatment”(Cafemoms). Despite this, there is still hope for change. Imprint News wrote an article that focused on recent protests and youth advocates who were pushing congress to introduce new laws. Specifically, they discussed the Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act. A main advocacy group aiming at these lawmakers is Breaking Code Silence, a group dedicated to advocating for young people who had experienced harm in a youth treatment center (Imprint News). Their main goal is to pass a Bill of Rights for all children in youth treatment centers (Imprint News). The article also mentions that Breaking Code Silence wants children to have guaranteed protection from physical restraint and monitored phone calls. They further require that children are provided with all the basic necessities (Imprint News). Paris Hilton, a well-known celebrity, discussed in a Washington post article when she was 16 years old when she was taken from her home by two men. This was a result of her parents signing her up for a teen wilderness program (Hilton). Hilton describes that she was beaten and malnourished throughout her time at a Utah Facility. In October 2021, she partnered with Breaking Code Silence and pushed for a reform that was signed into law last April (Hilton). In Utah, it is now mandatory for treatment centers to document any time that staff used physical restraint (Hilton). Immediately following they have to submit these reports to the Utah Office of Licensing (Hilton). It also prohibits programs from sedating residents or using mechanical restraints, such as handcuffs and chains (Hilton). Therefore, this proves that reforms can be implemented and that it is important to continue the fight for more. Without regulations these programs can run rampant and place hundreds of children in danger. Continuing to protest, collaborate with government officials, and raise awareness can, and will, eventually stop the persistence of these programs. Enforcing reports and proper care through the law is the only way to give teens struggling with mental illnesses in these programs a fighting chance to recover. On the other hand, supporters of the troubled teen industry have used studies and research to prove the effectiveness of these programs, one example being RedCliff Ascent. RedCliff Ascent is a wilderness therapy program that claims the effectiveness of wilderness therapy. In 2005, this company hired a researcher to study families and adolescents 2 years after the program. The results found that over 90% of adolescents found wilderness therapy as effective and 83% of adolescents were doing better. In another study by Dr. Steve Aldana, it was found that 91.4% of children experienced clinically significant improvement six months post program. The counter argument presented by RedCliff Ascent is not only biased as the research was initiated from a wilderness therapy company, but they do not provide a sample size. This is important because when making conclusive statements such as “Over 90% of adolescents contacted perceived wilderness therapy as effective” they could be talking about six out of seven children or two hundred out of two hundred twenty (RedCliff Ascent). Through further research, the same results can be presented without the use of wilderness therapy. An article by the American Psychology Association (APA) titled “Better options for troubled teens” presents a series of studies and programs that was created to help adolescents. These programs focus on community-based activities, activities to help connect teenagers with their parents, and activities that align with the teens interests. This includes computer labs, dance studios, and machine shops. These programs have found significant success in decreasing the amount of juvenile offenders from 50% to 4% in an area of Connecticut (APA). It did this by helping teens take accountability and understand their actions. It utilized role play, writing assignments, and guided discussions between the teens. Overall, the troubled teen industry has caused abuse, trauma, and death to many children across the United States. It is a trap for children and a trick for desperate parents. Through the personal stories from teens and parents, reports of mistreatment, and protests it can easily be seen the impact and the importance of preventing this industry from expanding, instead increasing regulations and transparency to protect America’s children. To keep these children safe it is imperative that everyone works together to enact legislation. Your support matters to keep America’s children protected.
Sincerely, A high school student trying to make positive change
Works Cited Brennan, Caleb, et al. “Youth Advocates Again Push Congress to Crack Down on ‘Troubled Teen’ Industry.” The Imprint, 19 Aug. 2022, Date Accessed Mar. 2 imprintnews.org/top-stories/youth-advocates-congress-troubled-teen-industry/67243.
DeAngelis, Tori. “Better Options for Troubled Teens.” https://www.apa.org, www.apa.org/monito2011/12/troubled-teens. Accessed Feb. 19
Hilton, Paris. “America’s ‘Troubled Teen Industry’ Needs Reform so Kids Can Avoid the Abuse I Endured.” Washington Post, 22 Oct. 2021, Date Accessed Feb. 5 www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/2021/10/18/paris-hilton-child-care-facilities-a Buse-reform.
Krebs, Catherine E. Five Facts About the Troubled Teen Industry. 22 Oct. 2021 Date Accessed Apr. 23 www.americanbar.org/groups/litigation/resources/newsletters/childrens-rights/five-facts-about-troubled-teen-industry.
Moniuszko, Sara M. “Wilderness therapy was supposed to help these ‘troubled teens.’ It traumatized them instead.” UsaToday, 8 Dec. 2022, Date Accessed Apr. 15 www.usatoday.com/in-depth/life/health-wellness/2022/12/08/wilderness-therapy-troubled-teen-industry/9890694002.
Parenting, baby names, celebrities, and royal news CafeMom.com. 14 Oct. 2022, Date Accessed Apr. 19 https://cafemom.com/parenting/troubled-teen-industry-island-view
RedCliff Ascent. “Does Wilderness Therapy Work?” Wilderness Therapy for Teens Needing Mental Health Treatment RedCliff Ascent, 10 Jan. 2023, Date Acessed Feb. 21 www.redcliffascent.com/wilderness-therapy-program/does-wilderness-therapy-work

I'm all messed up over my TA right now
Can't tell if she's super into me or if she's just used me for attention and now that she's got me sucked in and she doesn't want me anymore
We've been flirting all term, sometimes I make her laugh so hard she cries, she always goes way above her station to do favors for me and checks in with me later so I know all the ways she's helped me, and has sometime hinted she wants to do something after class (which I lack the nerve to act on but also fear I'm misinterpreting -- like she'll say "I'm really hangry, I could go for pad Thai" at the end of class). Last week she showed up in our regular class (which she's never done before) to announce ways to connect with our department outside of regular class hours -- only thing is she didn't stand in front of class, which would have made sense, she stood directly across from me and stared at me the whole time, locking eyes with me as she left the room. My lab partner was sick when we actually had lab later that day so she offered to be my partner (saying "unless you don't need any help..." which I quicky said I'd love her help)-- we had a deep life talk and I had a chance to talk about some of the legitimately amazing experiences in my life -- what both of our hopes and dreams are and what each of us are doing in the near future, I also told her about the business I just opened and let her know that yes I am a stable adult with a work history and life plan. I asked her polite questions about what she's doing with her life after college as well as what her personality is like in daily life, and was also being really supportive and sweet to her because she feels really confused about what to do when she finishes her masters program. As the period went on we were both talking sweetly, almost lovey dovey to each other. The other group finished lab that day and wanted to hang out in class (because she's the pretty TA) but she told them there was no reason to hang around, basically rushing them out the door, so that we were alone for like an hour. She started singing really beautifully to me and started being very understanding towards me. She asked if I was a "pacer" when I was getting a little anxious, and I told her "Albert Einstein went on a two hour stroll every night -- whenever I'm doing a dumb thing, I just remember a smart person who did it." Which made her smile.
Then she stood really close to me and swayed side to side, and I just stood there staring at her pretty face as both of us kind of just smiled warmly at each other. We were both being very open with each other and I was about to ask her if she wanted to get food later, but then our professor walked in and both of us got nervous and started rapidly explaining why we were alone together.
She even took off her lab coat and started walking around in what I could only explain as "strutting" like she was giving me permission to check her out. She sat directly over my back pack so when I left I had to tell her I was going to reach under her, which she said "I'm sorry (my name)" in a very sweet and seductive tone of voice to me.
I ended up not going to the department get together the next day because I was so overwhelmed with anxiety at home and woke up so late I would have to rush there to get to it.
I had lab yesterday and the connection still felt like a warm flowing river. She sat across from me and both of us just kind of sat there smiling at each other. I had her laughing and red faced pretty quickly, even in front of the teacher I had giggling. I did start to kind of lose my shit when the professor came in and was asking me about my project with her there, also because my lab partner was still gone. I started inadvertently using the interaction to hint that I don't know what the TA (who I am now totally infatuated with) is really thinking, and worried that she's just torturing me for her own amusement. I decided to leave early that day because I felt weird without my lab partner there. I'd basically just be sitting there not doing anything except pining over the pretty TA. First I left to get a coffee and was pacing in front of the building, having an anxiety rehearsal over working up the courage to ask her to get pizza after class. Funnily enough my professor came out and held the door open for me asking if I'd like to go in and I kind of blew up a little and was like, "OH SHIT I DON'T KNOW IF I WANT TO GO BACK IN, WELL I GUESS I GOTTA MY STUFF IS STILL IN THERE." As she walked away she smiled at me both knowingly and warmly and told me to have a good rest of my evening.
I went back in to get my stuff but I felt too weird not doing anything as all the other groups around me worked together, so I asked my TA "Is this all we're doing today?" She said "Yeah" and then I gathered up my stuff to leave and she said in kind of a sad tone, "Oh, well I guess if you have stuff to do today." Then I started asking her how many classes we have left like an actual kicked puppy (WE ONLY HAVE ONE MORE IN PERSON MEETING DUE TO MEMORIAL DAY) as well as details about our assignments (trying to milk the interaction for all it was worth) before leaving. She said "Bye" really sweetly to me as I walked out and I said "See ya" like a small child that had just been scolded.
At the start of the term she mentioned having a boyfriend to the class (and to a guy that was hitting on her), but she hasn't mentioned him since, and has never once brought him up with me when I basically hit on her the entire class.
GWAAAAH!
I might actually need to go to her office hours for help with my project (like actually legit need help) but other than that the only time I'll see her is when we all give our presentations. I'm afraid I won't have the courage to ask her for pizza or for her number. That the moment will never happen, or that I'll have to weirdly wait until everyone has left to not ask her in front of everyone.

PhemexPulse What's up crypto fam,

I just want to start by saying thank you for all the support and love, yall are awesome. So bitcoin... b… https://phemex.com/phemex-pulse/invite-friends-group?groupID=KYGuHOdcULWRNcVypvnMhA&memberId=SpU2xJU9cB5gSVFbo-HHDQ