Background
As noted by this article:
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-06-05/kathleen-folbigg-attorney-general-provides-update/102440136
In the state of New South Wales, Australia, Kathleen Folbigg was pardoned after 20 years in jail over killing her four children.
Key points are:

• "The barrister for the NSW Director of Public Prosecutions, Dean Jordan SC, said the discovery of the gene mutation "fundamentally changes our understanding of the circumstances leading to the deaths of the girls." Mr Jordan said pathology evidence relevant to the death of each Folbigg child was not available when she stood trial in 2003."
  
• "There was also evidence that the second child, Patrick, may have had an underlying genetic disorder that predisposed him to epilepsy."
  
• "At the trial, the diary entries were seen critical to the conviction, but experts who have since analysed them for the first time told the judicial inquiry they were the expressions of a depressed and grieving mother."
  

The campaign to have her conviction reviewed included a petition from 90 scientists around the world.

Two years later, 90 scientists from around the world signed a petition handed to NSW Governor Margaret Beazley, calling for Ms Folbigg to be pardoned.
The petition was based on an international study, which found an arrhythmia syndrome was a reasonable explanation for the death of the Folbigg girls, while the two boys carried different gene variants shown to cause life-threatening early-onset epilepsy in mice.

While the final report from the inquiry by the well respected former NSW Chief Justice Tom Bathurst is still ongoing, his preliminary findings effectively stated his final report would not change the outcome and Kathleen Folbigg should be released as soon as possible.
After reviewing the report over the weekend, Michael Daley, the Attorney-General of New South Wales, sought and received a pardon from the NSW Governor General.
The drama
While most in /australia hailed the pardon, there were others who decided they know more than the scientists about science and the former Chief Justice about law.
Slapfight 1:

... But sure, no doubt some random on Reddit knows more than the 80 (ETA: it was actually 90) scientists who signed a letter confirming there was reasonable doubt in the case.

And what the fuck do scientists know about the rest of the evidence? The counter to her diaries is just contrarianism that asks you to defy all common sense and logic. That's not even including the recordings and her entire fucking family and husband being certain she did it.

Yeah, what the fuck would scientists know about the scientific evidence which has freed her?

Slapfight 2:

Highly improbable that all her kids died from the same genetic condition. I don't think she is innocent.

The armchair critics have spoken, throw her back in

It's just statistics and probabilities.

Yeah, what are the odds that children with the same parents have the same genetic condition? /s

Slapfight 3:

Very sad for the father of the kids.
Of course she did it. This is the state of NSW just giving up because they've received blowback by a small cotiere of fanatics who think it's normal for a mother of 4 dead children to write highly incriminating quasi-admissions in a diary, comparing themselves to their homicidal father.

The 90 scientists - including Nobel winners - who put their names to a letter regarding the probable doubt in this case are merely a "small cotiere of fanatics"?
Sure, mate.

Slapfight 4:

Aside from the fact she confessed in her diary i suppose

[Bathurst] said diary entries used to convict her were the writings of a grieving and possibly depressed mother, blaming herself for the death of each child, as distinct from admissions that she murdered or otherwise harmed them.

Have you read the entries? And also when she said "well I am my fathers daughter"? Her father stabbed her mother tondeath when Kathleen was 18 months old

And? She didn't stab her kids, did she?
Yes, I've read them. They sound like a grieving woman blaming herself for the tragic sudden deaths of her kids. I know a woman who lost a child to cancer who blames herself, because grief is irrational like that.

Slapfight 5

Have you ever once heard her say that she's innocent? I apologise in advance but this woman is evil personified.

What on Earth are you talking about. She has always maintained her innocence.

When? Where?

Lol she literally pleaded not guilty.

Of course she did and because she's White, you believe her.

Is that the same whitness that had her in jail for 20 years fuckhead?

There is more if you hunt in there.

Hi! Does anyone know the policy on sending a private in basic a portable charger? I did already get the green light to send it by a former DS that i know, but was wondering if anything special needs to be done regarding how it is sent? Thanks in advance.
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I'm going to transitioning from the Navy to the Army via an interservice transfer. I have four years, a deployment, and a lot of memories under my belt. I am electing to come back in as an O-1 into the Army as I have no interest in the limited job prospects that an O-3 with no Army experience would bring me, and frankly I don't give a shit -- it's just 4 years. My (fairly promising, at least based on what the Army side said) goal is to eventually be infantry.
Coming in as a new Army officer, what should I expect, both from the position of coming from a different branch and generally as a "new guy" Army officer?
What stuff (most likely) stays the same coming a ship, specifically ship-life? What changes the most?
How best can I take care of my people while still accomplishing the mission? I know this looks very different between branches. It's always a delicate balance.
What does the "daily grind" of a combart arms community look like? What's the "unnecessary BS day-to-day" that you guys get up to? (I can think of plenty of examples in the Navy, but I'm not sure they translate 1:1).
BONUS: What are your best and worst interaction stories with your fresh LTs?
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Im 25 with a bachelors in CyberSecurity, also an Eagle Scout. Have not done much volunteer or team leadership since then. Nor do I have much work experiance.
Am I too uncompetitive for an OCS slot for 17X?
I spoke to a recruiter who mentioned going enlisted at E4 with 17C, then after 1 year of training and 1 of actual work, applying for OCS then.
Is that a realistic scenario or classic recruiter talk getting my hopes up in order to boost elistment numbers?
Prior medical history includes inactive IBS + depression from a couple years back.
Also, what are the timeframes for getting in with both of these options?
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Is it worth getting Emt certified or Paramedic certified before going Army? I got DQ at meps and was told I need to wait a year due to medication I was on last year. I'm trying to find something to fill my time for when I'm able to enlist next year. Is this a good idea or a waste of time?
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I have been recently promoted, and clothing and sales is currently out of stock of my current rank, so I am unable to update my AGSU. We have room and uniform inspections soon, and my first line is attempting to make me wear my AGSU with incorrect rank. I have been looking through AR670-1 as well as AR700-84 trying to see if there is a reg against this, but have been unsuccessful in finding one. If there isn’t, I’ll deal, but I’m not too keen on wearing a previous rank. Any help backed by regs would be appreciated
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I’m going National Guard. I’m still working through the beginning process with my recruiter. Here’s the catch: I wasn’t born in the US. I was born in Kazakhstan.
I was never naturalized because when I was adopted into my family in 2002, the Child Citizenship Act passed in 2000 stating that the amendment is “to provide for the automatic acquisition of U.S. citizenship when certain conditions have been met.” — I have met these conditions and am a legal citizen of 22 years (Section 320 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. This amendment states that I also do not need a certificate of citizenship, which I never applied for as I legally do not need one.)
I have a passport, a social security card, a legal photo ID and a birth certificate. I DO HAVE a permanent resident card, but it expired years ago. I was a baby when my parents got it and they never renewed it. However, I am a US Citizen. I’ve lived here my entire life. The problem is, my recruiter insists that I must have that Permanent Resident Card up to date. I would do it in a heartbeat, but it costs $500.
Why is my passport, ID, SS card or birth certificate not enough to prove my citizenship? I’m frustrated and my parents are getting short with me constantly asking about it.
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Kind of a situational question. My wife is scheduled for C Section June 21st and it looks like I may get PCS orders before then. If I do, and the kid comes, what do I do? Soonest my wife’s doc says she can move is 6 weeks postpartum and my wife can’t look after our first kid and newborn while she recovers from surgery. Is there anything I can do to report closer to the end of baby leave? I’m a geobachelor.
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I just have a couple questions about how having a GED will affect my enlistment. I've heard it makes you ineligible for bonuses, but what about contract options? Could I still get an Option 4 contract? Option 19? If not, how many college credits would I need to move into the Tier 1 education category?
also, how do you increase your chances of going to certain schools (Airborne, Air Assault, Ranger, etc) if it's not in your contract? Going in as a 68W (Combat Medic) if that makes a difference
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Is there some regulation against sending a SM on a deployment/rotation when they are very close to ETS? Say 6 months out?
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Im a dumbass and made and said a lot of stupid ass shit that some hater who had it out for me has been basically (not really) 'blackmailing' me with that was on my laptop (private, never uploaded) which he hacked into . It was a bunch of questionable shit I said that basically makes me paranoid reasonably that I could possibly be court martial'd but I was never arrested or anything, and I'm sure the guy would upload it again if I joined the Military just to tarnish my good name. I said all this when I was 18 , but basically this dude came to my house and threatened my family with a knife and I responded, 'not so good' , and as a result, I was basically 5150'd and had lied to the people saying I was suicidal resulting in a medical documentation which has made me fearful of ever going to MEPS. So at the time I was 'isolated' so in attempt to expose the fact that there was a legitimate danger I reasonably tried to court attention on Twitter and basically did and said everything that could ever allow me to hold a security clearance before deleting it.
My perception of the event was that he was threatening my family with a knife, but to the outside world, he simply slashed my families tires. Basically he baited me and fell for it. There was much more to the story but if I could go back in time I probably would not have reacted the way I did but I was 18 and my mind was barely developing.
​
I was 5150'd and I was told I could never hold public office and I am barred from the Medical field . This of course was a lie, but it's BASICALLY on my Medical record and it's a huge red flag. So naturally, unable to join the Military, I was unable to complete my mission and of course, was put on medication for some time (7 months) until I can figure out what to do. So I been working warehouse jobs ever since that day . I am 23 years old now, the incident happened when I was 18. I was and still am a cross country runner who is fit and healthy , who can complete the physical requirements just fine but the 'Moral' and 'Medical' is what's preventing me from joining, open to debate. I haven't made the same dumb mistake of reacting to my families tires being slashed since and learned from that experience .
​
Obviously the Police knows what was on my laptop because this dude went around with the unauthorized material he was not allowed to have and actually put the content in DVD's around the city hoping someone would pick it up and read it , and I actually worked at a warehouse which actually had a police officer who worked there at the warehouse to check the hard drives for CP (i dont know the deal about that) , and he found the very same DVD filled with the content of my basically unhinged responses that I never uploaded to the internet .
​
Basically this dude mentally ruined my life but I wasn't the only 1 he has done this to, he has hacked into multiple people's laptops and slashed other people's tires before and distributed information and he has been arrested in the past .
​
I was wondering if I could be court martial'd for unprofessional conduct before I even join the military or am I just overthinking this? I basically had this huge 4 hour clip of a rant about his twitter account on my laptop that was perfectly constitutional legal but if you took things out of context it sounds like something that would have me arrested if I was in the military , and I never uploaded it, nor planned to. maybe it's just all in my head but as you can imagine , the real problem isn't my speeches that were on my laptop but the 5150'd , which was at the time and information I had at my disposable,a completely reasonable reaction to a violent threat.
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PCS’ing to Schofield tomorrow, any tips?
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Does anyone know if you still have to have a physical copy of your profile on you? I remember reading somewhere that you don't and your commander can look at it
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I recently graduated college and am looking for advice in terms of what I should expect/request in my contract for 68W MOS. I got my B.A. in cellular biology in the beginning of May and have been set on enlisting since my junior year; now that I'm in the last couple of steps with my recruiter before going to MEPS, I wanted to know if there was anything I should ask for based on my scores/degree (520 MCAT, 99 ASVAB, 146 GT) in terms of rank or guaranteed admission to schools (such as Airborne) coming in. I am looking at the 2-year contract as of now because I do want to apply to medical school down the line. If I enjoy my time, I am open to staying longer in the Army. However, there are some characteristics I currently need to work on that I know enlistment will provide (as opposed to OCS which would mean an extended contract) in addition to education benefits. Also, the alternative would have been doing a gap year in a lab or clinic which doesn't pay much better and is something I have done my fair share of. Any help is appreciated; thank you.
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This is kind of a weird question but i really want to join the army but my family is telling me that it’s impossible for me to join because unfortunately my parents passed by suicide and that alone will disqualify me. I’ve tried googling it and looking all over the internet to find a. Answer but I can’t find it. Is there any truth to that? Thanks if answered.
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I’m a drill right now and I’m looking at being Force reclassed and looking for a new MOS. I saw 51C and was curious if anyone knew what the day to day looked like? Or if anyone knew of any MOSs that were chill 9-5 jobs.
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How does the average person become an officer in the 75th or special forces? Even for support roles, don't most people have to go through the qualification training and fail?
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Do you ever feel remorse for the innocent civilians you slaughter in the name of imperialism and the military industrial complex?
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I've always had a draw to service, but my athletic opportunities usually kept me from it. Out of high school, I had the opportunity to play college baseball and passed up on trying the academy route. Once I got halfway through college, I wanted to try ROTC, but I was a starter on the baseball team and balls deep in a mechanical engineering course load, so it didn't seem feasible to add to my plate.
Now, I'm going on 24 with 2 years of experience as an ME in product development. Is there a military route for someone like me who does have a college degree, but is beyond the point of an ROTC college program? Is my specific degree useful for the military?
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I'm joining the Army soon, within a month or two. I've come up with an MOS list I made based on what I'm interested in (this is NOT a list of my available jobs based on my ASVAB score, just some jobs that sounded interesting based on the field I was looking into). I was mostly considering Logistics and Supply, but I am open to other potential fields, and jobs that aren't in the list below. Like I said, I want to do something in logistics and supply, but more so, just something non-combative that allows me to travel to most bases. What do you guys think about it? Any recommendations? I do plan to do something in law enforcement after I get out, but my MOS does not have to relate to that. Here is the list. The first two are the ones I'm currently considering, and the ones in parentheses are the ones I'm interested in.
(Cargo Specialist 88H)
(Unit Supply Specialist 92Y)
(Automated Logistics Specialist 92A)
(Ammunition Specialist 89B)
Ammunition Stock Control and Accounting Specialist 89A
(Corrections/Detention Specialist 31E)
Culinary Specialist 92G
Medical Logistics Specialist 68J
(Military Police 31B)
(Motor Transport Operator 88M)
Petroleum Supply Specialist 92F
Transportation Management Coordinator 88N
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Can someone please answer this question? If by some chance a person is granted a moral waiver for one felony possession charge on their record Will that allow you to join infantry or be around guns in general? Or would you have to have your firearm rights restored?
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Do you guys still have to have an NBC mask as part of the uniform when out in the field? If yes, do you still practice going into full MOPP gear?
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Completely off topic to Army. Has anyone used a gaems vanguard with the steam deck? Found one for cheap for field purposes but I can't find anything that says it works or not with the deck.
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30 year old with great Asvab and physical tests, no medical problems other than anxiety counseling in 2020. Problem 1: I have a large hand tattoo on my right hand. It’s a animal with some foliage and stuff. It is not on knuckles but descends from half sleeve down wrist and over top of hand.
Issue 2: I was discharged from navy boot camp in 2019. Long story. Mental health and personal reasons. I have an re-4 jfc on my dd 214. ( navy parting gift) I have authorized documents of treatment for my condition signed from doctor and no treatment or problems with mental health since early 2020 and no medication ever needed. Is there any shot I’d get approved for enlistment in the army ? @7hillsrecruiting
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Can someone please describe the process of renrolling into DLC? I did not complete it in the 720 day window however I am not barred from reenlistment (yet).
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Hey there ! I’m working things out to go to sign a 37F contract in the USAR soon since I had a high enough score on my ASVAB, but my recruiter confirmed that I would have to go to FSPC or Fat Camp due to being 2% over what’s allowed for body fat before I attend basic. I don’t mind basically getting paid to workout and learn about nutrition, but I’d love tips and just overall things to prep for before I have to ship out to it.
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i got Fort Sill as my first duty station im a 94T and i have family how is the on post housing or should i just rent a house off post
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I have a uniform question that i can not seem to figure out using ar670-1 or the pam currently i have been wearing my improvised hot weather combat uniform but the one i was issued back in 2019 apparently is the first generation that has the mesh lining in the pants and no velcro on the top of the shoulder pockets and my first line was telling me he doesnt think this is authorized anymore since a newer version was released so he asked me to look into the regulations but i cant find anything saying if i can or cant where it the most i know as of right now is the ihwcu is authorized but i have an older version apparently but its also what they issued me at ocie so im trying to find if anyone can help me out or knows if i can still where this i dont wanna buy a whole other uniform just because this doesnt have velcro on the top of these pockets
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What is the most realistic special operations group someone can join for the average person?
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Do you need a DA Form 1610 to attend the BAC? Fort Moore's website states you cannot attend BAC in a leave status, but how would anyone walk on if that's the case? And soldiers do walk on, I've heard firsthand.
I'm attempting to attend Airborne on leave before I PCS, is it possible? I just commissioned, and will be working for Cadet Command all summer before I PCS to BOLC.
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Can i join the ranger Special forces with a red/green color blind?
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Is someone able to join if blind in one eye
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As a prior enlisted, when I go to meps will the councilor just tell me my duty station I’m headed to after I pick my Mos? Will I have any say? How does that work from your experience
Any personal opinions and experienced insight is appreciated
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If someone becomes an intel officer, can they tryout for the 75th or the special forces?
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I have just returned from TDY, for Family separation pay, do I need to fill out 1561, or is it a special pay request on IPPS-A. Can’t find any answer from S-1, or other SM. Any help would be appreciative.
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I want to join the army, Can I pick a supply Mos with a ASVAB score of 41 and CL of 90 ?? The army website says yes I just wanted to know if the website is accurate. (92A/92y) Mos
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How long does it take for my rank to update in my email? I was promoted to SGT yesterday and it didn't update yet. It updated automatically for others in my unit. Do I need to update my CAC?
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I'm enlisting in the Army Reserve as a 35L and soon to go to basic in a few weeks. I have a couple of questions that are hovering over me since I'm counting down the days to basic training. I'm a lot older then most of the trainees are going to be in basic. I fear if I get injured or recycle for whatever reason. Will they change my mos because I didn't meet the allotted time slot for 35L AlT? Will I become over holdover until the next class? How frequent are the courses if held over? And also to add if any directions toward course work should I start studying to familiarize myself with?
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Anyone have an idea on what finance battalions are? Gonna be shipping out as 36B and I generally understand what the job will entail but lots of the comments I’ve read say “oh they’re reforming 36B into finance battalions”. Is this a good or bad thing?
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Prior service coming in; USMC to Army, E5. I’ve already gotten some good anti-cringe advice on general differences between the branches of service, but if anybody has advice on stuff to bring/not bring to AIT (I only got a bootcamp packing list) or tips I’m all ears.
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Is it common for people to become shorter from the ruck marches?
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Can you have nicotine in AIT, may be useful to add that I’m doing split training where I do basic one summer then do AIT the next.
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How does reclassing work? My window will be hitting soon and it’s time to move on. Will I have any Mos available to me? Duty station as well? I heard a lot about undeover strength Mos and how they affect reclassing. Any info on how it works would be great. Thanks fellas
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Is having a iep when I was in school a disqualifyer if not do I need a waivet
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I can barely do 5 push-ups, and I’m leaving for army basic combat training in 1 week, any recommendations?
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Pollen Allergies @ BCT Jackson
I am shipping out to basic training at the end of June. Has anyone had any experience with sick call during training and/or reception when dealing with seasonal/pollen allergies?
If this affected you, did you get prescribed anything or go to sick call any once in a while? I lived in GA for a stint and the pollen down south was not my friend so trying to prepare for the worst if possible. Not taking any meds right now.
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Can MPs join the 82 Airborne
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just graduated AIT, would it be possible to trade my duty station with another soldier for both of our benefits and we're both consenting ? he's got schofield hawaii and i have fort george meade maryland, im a pv2 he's a PFC and we have the exact same training and MOS? thanks.
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Hi! Does anyone know the policy on sending a private in basic a portable charger? I did already get the green light to send it by a former DS that i know, but was wondering if anything special needs to be done regarding how it is sent? Thanks in advance.
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I'm going to transitioning from the Navy to the Army via an interservice transfer. I have four years, a deployment, and a lot of memories under my belt. I am electing to come back in as an O-1 into the Army as I have no interest in the limited job prospects that an O-3 with no Army experience would bring me, and frankly I don't give a shit -- it's just 4 years. My (fairly promising, at least based on what the Army side said) goal is to eventually be infantry.
Coming in as a new Army officer, what should I expect, both from the position of coming from a different branch and generally as a "new guy" Army officer?
What stuff (most likely) stays the same coming a ship, specifically ship-life? What changes the most?
How best can I take care of my people while still accomplishing the mission? I know this looks very different between branches. It's always a delicate balance.
What does the "daily grind" of a combart arms community look like? What's the "unnecessary BS day-to-day" that you guys get up to? (I can think of plenty of examples in the Navy, but I'm not sure they translate 1:1).
BONUS: What are your best and worst interaction stories with your fresh LTs?
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Im 25 with a bachelors in CyberSecurity, also an Eagle Scout. Have not done much volunteer or team leadership since then. Nor do I have much work experiance.
Am I too uncompetitive for an OCS slot for 17X?
I spoke to a recruiter who mentioned going enlisted at E4 with 17C, then after 1 year of training and 1 of actual work, applying for OCS then.
Is that a realistic scenario or classic recruiter talk getting my hopes up in order to boost elistment numbers?
Prior medical history includes inactive IBS + depression from a couple years back.
Also, what are the timeframes for getting in with both of these options?
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Is it worth getting Emt certified or Paramedic certified before going Army? I got DQ at meps and was told I need to wait a year due to medication I was on last year. I'm trying to find something to fill my time for when I'm able to enlist next year. Is this a good idea or a waste of time?
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I have been recently promoted, and clothing and sales is currently out of stock of my current rank, so I am unable to update my AGSU. We have room and uniform inspections soon, and my first line is attempting to make me wear my AGSU with incorrect rank. I have been looking through AR670-1 as well as AR700-84 trying to see if there is a reg against this, but have been unsuccessful in finding one. If there isn’t, I’ll deal, but I’m not too keen on wearing a previous rank. Any help backed by regs would be appreciated
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I’m going National Guard. I’m still working through the beginning process with my recruiter. Here’s the catch: I wasn’t born in the US. I was born in Kazakhstan.
I was never naturalized because when I was adopted into my family in 2002, the Child Citizenship Act passed in 2000 stating that the amendment is “to provide for the automatic acquisition of U.S. citizenship when certain conditions have been met.” — I have met these conditions and am a legal citizen of 22 years (Section 320 of the Immigration and Nationality Act. This amendment states that I also do not need a certificate of citizenship, which I never applied for as I legally do not need one.)
I have a passport, a social security card, a legal photo ID and a birth certificate. I DO HAVE a permanent resident card, but it expired years ago. I was a baby when my parents got it and they never renewed it. However, I am a US Citizen. I’ve lived here my entire life. The problem is, my recruiter insists that I must have that Permanent Resident Card up to date. I would do it in a heartbeat, but it costs $500.
Why is my passport, ID, SS card or birth certificate not enough to prove my citizenship? I’m frustrated and my parents are getting short with me constantly asking about it.
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Kind of a situational question. My wife is scheduled for C Section June 21st and it looks like I may get PCS orders before then. If I do, and the kid comes, what do I do? Soonest my wife’s doc says she can move is 6 weeks postpartum and my wife can’t look after our first kid and newborn while she recovers from surgery. Is there anything I can do to report closer to the end of baby leave? I’m a geobachelor.
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I just have a couple questions about how having a GED will affect my enlistment. I've heard it makes you ineligible for bonuses, but what about contract options? Could I still get an Option 4 contract? Option 19? If not, how many college credits would I need to move into the Tier 1 education category?
also, how do you increase your chances of going to certain schools (Airborne, Air Assault, Ranger, etc) if it's not in your contract? Going in as a 68W (Combat Medic) if that makes a difference
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Is there some regulation against sending a SM on a deployment/rotation when they are very close to ETS? Say 6 months out?
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Im a dumbass and made and said a lot of stupid ass shit that some hater who had it out for me has been basically (not really) 'blackmailing' me with that was on my laptop (private, never uploaded) which he hacked into . It was a bunch of questionable shit I said that basically makes me paranoid reasonably that I could possibly be court martial'd but I was never arrested or anything, and I'm sure the guy would upload it again if I joined the Military just to tarnish my good name. I said all this when I was 18 , but basically this dude came to my house and threatened my family with a knife and I responded, 'not so good' , and as a result, I was basically 5150'd and had lied to the people saying I was suicidal resulting in a medical documentation which has made me fearful of ever going to MEPS. So at the time I was 'isolated' so in attempt to expose the fact that there was a legitimate danger I reasonably tried to court attention on Twitter and basically did and said everything that could ever allow me to hold a security clearance before deleting it.
My perception of the event was that he was threatening my family with a knife, but to the outside world, he simply slashed my families tires. Basically he baited me and fell for it. There was much more to the story but if I could go back in time I probably would not have reacted the way I did but I was 18 and my mind was barely developing.
​
I was 5150'd and I was told I could never hold public office and I am barred from the Medical field . This of course was a lie, but it's BASICALLY on my Medical record and it's a huge red flag. So naturally, unable to join the Military, I was unable to complete my mission and of course, was put on medication for some time (7 months) until I can figure out what to do. So I been working warehouse jobs ever since that day . I am 23 years old now, the incident happened when I was 18. I was and still am a cross country runner who is fit and healthy , who can complete the physical requirements just fine but the 'Moral' and 'Medical' is what's preventing me from joining, open to debate. I haven't made the same dumb mistake of reacting to my families tires being slashed since and learned from that experience .
​
Obviously the Police knows what was on my laptop because this dude went around with the unauthorized material he was not allowed to have and actually put the content in DVD's around the city hoping someone would pick it up and read it , and I actually worked at a warehouse which actually had a police officer who worked there at the warehouse to check the hard drives for CP (i dont know the deal about that) , and he found the very same DVD filled with the content of my basically unhinged responses that I never uploaded to the internet .
​
Basically this dude mentally ruined my life but I wasn't the only 1 he has done this to, he has hacked into multiple people's laptops and slashed other people's tires before and distributed information and he has been arrested in the past .
​
I was wondering if I could be court martial'd for unprofessional conduct before I even join the military or am I just overthinking this? I basically had this huge 4 hour clip of a rant about his twitter account on my laptop that was perfectly constitutional legal but if you took things out of context it sounds like something that would have me arrested if I was in the military , and I never uploaded it, nor planned to. maybe it's just all in my head but as you can imagine , the real problem isn't my speeches that were on my laptop but the 5150'd , which was at the time and information I had at my disposable,a completely reasonable reaction to a violent threat.
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PCS’ing to Schofield tomorrow, any tips?
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Does anyone know if you still have to have a physical copy of your profile on you? I remember reading somewhere that you don't and your commander can look at it
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I recently graduated college and am looking for advice in terms of what I should expect/request in my contract for 68W MOS. I got my B.A. in cellular biology in the beginning of May and have been set on enlisting since my junior year; now that I'm in the last couple of steps with my recruiter before going to MEPS, I wanted to know if there was anything I should ask for based on my scores/degree (520 MCAT, 99 ASVAB, 146 GT) in terms of rank or guaranteed admission to schools (such as Airborne) coming in. I am looking at the 2-year contract as of now because I do want to apply to medical school down the line. If I enjoy my time, I am open to staying longer in the Army. However, there are some characteristics I currently need to work on that I know enlistment will provide (as opposed to OCS which would mean an extended contract) in addition to education benefits. Also, the alternative would have been doing a gap year in a lab or clinic which doesn't pay much better and is something I have done my fair share of. Any help is appreciated; thank you.
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This is kind of a weird question but i really want to join the army but my family is telling me that it’s impossible for me to join because unfortunately my parents passed by suicide and that alone will disqualify me. I’ve tried googling it and looking all over the internet to find a. Answer but I can’t find it. Is there any truth to that? Thanks if answered.
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I’m a drill right now and I’m looking at being Force reclassed and looking for a new MOS. I saw 51C and was curious if anyone knew what the day to day looked like? Or if anyone knew of any MOSs that were chill 9-5 jobs.
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How does the average person become an officer in the 75th or special forces? Even for support roles, don't most people have to go through the qualification training and fail?
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Do you ever feel remorse for the innocent civilians you slaughter in the name of imperialism and the military industrial complex?
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I've always had a draw to service, but my athletic opportunities usually kept me from it. Out of high school, I had the opportunity to play college baseball and passed up on trying the academy route. Once I got halfway through college, I wanted to try ROTC, but I was a starter on the baseball team and balls deep in a mechanical engineering course load, so it didn't seem feasible to add to my plate.
Now, I'm going on 24 with 2 years of experience as an ME in product development. Is there a military route for someone like me who does have a college degree, but is beyond the point of an ROTC college program? Is my specific degree useful for the military?
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I'm joining the Army soon, within a month or two. I've come up with an MOS list I made based on what I'm interested in (this is NOT a list of my available jobs based on my ASVAB score, just some jobs that sounded interesting based on the field I was looking into). I was mostly considering Logistics and Supply, but I am open to other potential fields, and jobs that aren't in the list below. Like I said, I want to do something in logistics and supply, but more so, just something non-combative that allows me to travel to most bases. What do you guys think about it? Any recommendations? I do plan to do something in law enforcement after I get out, but my MOS does not have to relate to that. Here is the list. The first two are the ones I'm currently considering, and the ones in parentheses are the ones I'm interested in.
(Cargo Specialist 88H)
(Unit Supply Specialist 92Y)
(Automated Logistics Specialist 92A)
(Ammunition Specialist 89B)
Ammunition Stock Control and Accounting Specialist 89A
(Corrections/Detention Specialist 31E)
Culinary Specialist 92G
Medical Logistics Specialist 68J
(Military Police 31B)
(Motor Transport Operator 88M)
Petroleum Supply Specialist 92F
Transportation Management Coordinator 88N
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Can someone please answer this question? If by some chance a person is granted a moral waiver for one felony possession charge on their record Will that allow you to join infantry or be around guns in general? Or would you have to have your firearm rights restored?
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Do you guys still have to have an NBC mask as part of the uniform when out in the field? If yes, do you still practice going into full MOPP gear?
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Completely off topic to Army. Has anyone used a gaems vanguard with the steam deck? Found one for cheap for field purposes but I can't find anything that says it works or not with the deck.
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30 year old with great Asvab and physical tests, no medical problems other than anxiety counseling in 2020. Problem 1: I have a large hand tattoo on my right hand. It’s a animal with some foliage and stuff. It is not on knuckles but descends from half sleeve down wrist and over top of hand.
Issue 2: I was discharged from navy boot camp in 2019. Long story. Mental health and personal reasons. I have an re-4 jfc on my dd 214. ( navy parting gift) I have authorized documents of treatment for my condition signed from doctor and no treatment or problems with mental health since early 2020 and no medication ever needed. Is there any shot I’d get approved for enlistment in the army ? @7hillsrecruiting
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Can someone please describe the process of renrolling into DLC? I did not complete it in the 720 day window however I am not barred from reenlistment (yet).
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Hey there ! I’m working things out to go to sign a 37F contract in the USAR soon since I had a high enough score on my ASVAB, but my recruiter confirmed that I would have to go to FSPC or Fat Camp due to being 2% over what’s allowed for body fat before I attend basic. I don’t mind basically getting paid to workout and learn about nutrition, but I’d love tips and just overall things to prep for before I have to ship out to it.
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i got Fort Sill as my first duty station im a 94T and i have family how is the on post housing or should i just rent a house off post
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I have a uniform question that i can not seem to figure out using ar670-1 or the pam currently i have been wearing my improvised hot weather combat uniform but the one i was issued back in 2019 apparently is the first generation that has the mesh lining in the pants and no velcro on the top of the shoulder pockets and my first line was telling me he doesnt think this is authorized anymore since a newer version was released so he asked me to look into the regulations but i cant find anything saying if i can or cant where it the most i know as of right now is the ihwcu is authorized but i have an older version apparently but its also what they issued me at ocie so im trying to find if anyone can help me out or knows if i can still where this i dont wanna buy a whole other uniform just because this doesnt have velcro on the top of these pockets
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What is the most realistic special operations group someone can join for the average person?
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Do you need a DA Form 1610 to attend the BAC? Fort Moore's website states you cannot attend BAC in a leave status, but how would anyone walk on if that's the case? And soldiers do walk on, I've heard firsthand.
I'm attempting to attend Airborne on leave before I PCS, is it possible? I just commissioned, and will be working for Cadet Command all summer before I PCS to BOLC.
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Can i join the ranger Special forces with a red/green color blind?
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Is someone able to join if blind in one eye
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As a prior enlisted, when I go to meps will the councilor just tell me my duty station I’m headed to after I pick my Mos? Will I have any say? How does that work from your experience
Any personal opinions and experienced insight is appreciated
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If someone becomes an intel officer, can they tryout for the 75th or the special forces?
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I have just returned from TDY, for Family separation pay, do I need to fill out 1561, or is it a special pay request on IPPS-A. Can’t find any answer from S-1, or other SM. Any help would be appreciative.
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I want to join the army, Can I pick a supply Mos with a ASVAB score of 41 and CL of 90 ?? The army website says yes I just wanted to know if the website is accurate. (92A/92y) Mos
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How long does it take for my rank to update in my email? I was promoted to SGT yesterday and it didn't update yet. It updated automatically for others in my unit. Do I need to update my CAC?
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I'm enlisting in the Army Reserve as a 35L and soon to go to basic in a few weeks. I have a couple of questions that are hovering over me since I'm counting down the days to basic training. I'm a lot older then most of the trainees are going to be in basic. I fear if I get injured or recycle for whatever reason. Will they change my mos because I didn't meet the allotted time slot for 35L AlT? Will I become over holdover until the next class? How frequent are the courses if held over? And also to add if any directions toward course work should I start studying to familiarize myself with?
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Anyone have an idea on what finance battalions are? Gonna be shipping out as 36B and I generally understand what the job will entail but lots of the comments I’ve read say “oh they’re reforming 36B into finance battalions”. Is this a good or bad thing?
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Prior service coming in; USMC to Army, E5. I’ve already gotten some good anti-cringe advice on general differences between the branches of service, but if anybody has advice on stuff to bring/not bring to AIT (I only got a bootcamp packing list) or tips I’m all ears.
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Is it common for people to become shorter from the ruck marches?
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Can you have nicotine in AIT, may be useful to add that I’m doing split training where I do basic one summer then do AIT the next.
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How does reclassing work? My window will be hitting soon and it’s time to move on. Will I have any Mos available to me? Duty station as well? I heard a lot about undeover strength Mos and how they affect reclassing. Any info on how it works would be great. Thanks fellas
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Is having a iep when I was in school a disqualifyer if not do I need a waivet
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I can barely do 5 push-ups, and I’m leaving for army basic combat training in 1 week, any recommendations?
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Pollen Allergies @ BCT Jackson
I am shipping out to basic training at the end of June. Has anyone had any experience with sick call during training and/or reception when dealing with seasonal/pollen allergies?
If this affected you, did you get prescribed anything or go to sick call any once in a while? I lived in GA for a stint and the pollen down south was not my friend so trying to prepare for the worst if possible. Not taking any meds right now.
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Can MPs join the 82 Airborne
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just graduated AIT, would it be possible to trade my duty station with another soldier for both of our benefits and we're both consenting ? he's got schofield hawaii and i have fort george meade maryland, im a pv2 he's a PFC and we have the exact same training and MOS? thanks.
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Hi everyone - looking for a bit of advice and also sharing experiences about now versus then. Plus issues related to the lack of agency/control I feel we have even as grown ass adults against physicians who believe their jobs to catch us lying and make assumptions about our lives, while paternally patting us on the head like small children. Between pop culture currently having big nostalgia moments right now (Thank You for your service, Judy Blume), plus the fact I've got a tween daughter, I can help but remember the special hellscape that existed for me from when I was a few years younger than my daughter all the way through 8th grade. During that time I really did try to fit in, something that in hindsight only made things worse. I just remember clothing being tough to find. And while I didn't get boobs until I was practically in college, I somehow grew the bottom half of a full grown woman by the time I'd finished 5th grade except for the length of my inseam was stuck in third grade, as was the space where a waist should be. My mom was so supportive and thankfully, because she could sew, did what she couple to alter the jeans of the day (jordache & Calvin's from the JRS section initially, but the misses by 6th grade) and sometimes made things for me that I liked but weren't available. So I looked nice enough, but the kids were merciless when teasing and I was bullied to the extreme at my school, living in fear of changing for gym and wondering how many times that day I'd get hit in the back of my head with a basketball. (Not surprising that 30+ years later I found it tough to take my son to BB practice because of the intense sounds and smells nearly knocked me into a full on panic, but I managed). Anyway, by early high school I found myself and my people through the music I fell in love with, so despite this meaning I was a goth living in the American south during the satanic panic, people being a little scared of me before they got to know me was WAAAAAAY better than the fat shaming & torture 24/7. Fast forward to now, and my daughter will be starting 5th grade in the new school year. So far so good with the teasing through 4th. She hasn't made close friends but has Cubs friends. she likes what she likes. It really is the following year I fear, middle school, when all hell breaks loose. But I am also worried about 5th grade too as each of my older kids had tough times then as all the hormones ramp up and it can all go a lot Hunger games with mean girls. So advice/perspective needed: If you've helped a daughter get through the middle years of clothes sizing awkwardness, how did you do it? -Are there stores or brands you recommend, either online or brick and mortar? -My middle school experience was particularly bad because it was a small private school where I now get would take the kids public schools would reject. My mother thought she was protecting us ha! But what was regular public school girls gym like? She we just plan to find an off campus PE option? - can you recommend any resources to help with her long list of food rejections and very short list of foods she will eat? We don't label food good or bad or make anyone eat anything or restrict (unless it means there won't be any dinner left for someone who hasn't eaten yet and one of my teenagers is going in for round two). I am concerned about her lack of calcium intake as she only has what she gets in milk with cereal. She won't eat or drink any other dairy products except vanilla ice cream, but that can upset her tummy. She doesn't eat bread either, which means with the exception of cake, we don't have to put much effort in keeping her away from gluten. I know - one more quirk inherited, ha at least that one isn't from my side as well. My husband & I had no idea just how much neurodiversity we had going on in ourselves (and some of us cough not me still refuse to believe they have ADHD like the rest of us) and the rest of our families. It is beyond frustrating the assumptions made by society about fat kids and what foods/how much they eat. I honestly think my daughter isn't eating enough based on myplate meal plans. And one of her cousins has ARFID. Of course treatment was delayed by the assumption it was anorexia and the refusal to eat was by choice and throwing up afterwards assumed to be self-induced. I had a similar issue at one point. All but one of the people I saw in the medical field wanted to high-five me for finally being in a 'normal' BMI and/or refusing to believe it was a plumbing issue and I was simply in denial about being bulimic. At the exact same time a new pain mismanagement specialist refused to believe the same plumbing problems meant I could not safely take naproxen. I had records & imaging reports available but he told me he needed his own done and until then I wasn't to be trusted that I wasn't just a drug seeker. He tossed me sample bottles of Naproxen coated with nexium. Pain got too terrible so I tried them for a week or so. Two weeks after I had that appointment (and also an upperGI to confirm it was a plumbing issue), I coughed up a few speckles of blood. GI doc, the only goody In this story told me to come in the next day. But early the next morning I woke up with terrible cramps and the need to go. As I stood up I realised I was in shock as I collapsed straight down onto my butt and heard a crack followed by bolts of lightning shocks of pain. As I tried to make it I realised our bathroom floor was covered in bloody grossness and that I was clearly bleeding internally. Fast forward to getting to the ER woozy with shock my husband couldn't get anyone to bring a stretcher and it's a blur but they put in a central line while I was awake - SCARY. My Gi doc was notified and when they went in with the scope my oesophagus had a new feature - a very deep hole on a vein that wasn't in the series he'd taken just two week before! After they finished my blood and plasma transfusions next stop was X-rays. So on top of the ulcer I had two compression fractures, L1 & L2. I wore a brace a month before having surgery to secure them. At 42 years old I had lost an inch of height & was diagnosed with osteoporosis. I have to wonder will it still be like this when our kids become the grownups. Or will it be worse?! I can't help but think dieting since I was 8 and losing and regaining the same 100lbs surely wasn't good for my bones! I so much want my daughter to not go through the same shit!

I hope this is the right place and someone can tell me what may have been going on in my village. I moved here a few weeks ago. It's a small village in the heart of Russia and my parents and I came here because things start to get really bad in Moscow and my father lost his job. I don't know why we had to move to this isolated village, so far away from civilization. Maybe my parents wanted peace and quiet? To escape the things in that city, the poisoned minds?
The houses here had all been far below average in price. Almost everyone who lives here has moved here recently.
But, there are crazy rumors about this village that people tell each other. It was found abandoned in the mid-nineties. Where everyone went, no one knows. They say that no signs of people were found at all, nothing. But... everywhere in and around the village… strange patches of earth had been discovered, circular and smooth. Not only in the forest or on the road, but also in the dilapidated wooden houses. At our new neighbors' house, one of the mysterious spots had supposedly been found right in the living room floor, where the floorboards had been just cut away.
These rumors scare me. I am afraid of this village. But yesterday... I was redoing the floor in my room with my father and there... I found a notebook under the old boards. I hid it from my father, I don't know why... Someone must have left it there.
Last night... that's when I read it. I read it and now I'm incredibly afraid of this house and this village. Of the fields and the woods that surround me. The notebook apparently belonged to someone called Ilya Vasiliev. I have tried to translate what he wrote, hoping that someone here can help me find an explanation for the rumors. For this uneasy feeling that I have since I moved here...
***********
I am fine. I want that to be clear from the beginning. My story is strange and in huge parts troubling, but I am still in the best state of mental health.
I am fine!
My story begins seven months ago, in December 1979, when deep winter was upon our village. We were preparing for Christmas, the first Christmas to be celebrated publicly throughout the village, after years of having to practice our faith in secret because the Soviet government did not allow religions. Only in the last few years did the Reds' view loosen and they allowed small islands of faith. One of them was my village, which finally dared to celebrate and praise the Lord.
I have been a believer all twenty years of my life, an exemplary Christian, just like my parents. Faith had kept our family line alive in times of terror and misery. Death had always been close to us, as the fields where most of the population of our village had worked for generations had once brought the end of hundreds of people. Many years ago, on those fields, atrocities had occurred that had finally given them their present name: The Fields of Death.
I myself had not been born back then, not by a long shot, but my grandparents had spent their childhood there, a childhood full of hunger and depravity. My grandfather Fomenko often told me and my sister the stories he had experienced and how faith had saved everyone. There had been a long, cold winter and the grain had been confiscated by the government to be taken to the cities for distribution. After all, the grain belonged to all the people, not just those on the farms who planted it, tended to it, and harvested it. And so, the only food of that time left my grandfather's village and never came back. Some of his neighbors had once tried to hold back some grain, to hide some sacks, but when they were caught, a hail of bullets determined their fate. People lived in fear, not daring to stop working, not daring to keep for themselves the food that was destined for the common good. In those days, horrors happened in my village that I cannot truly picture today, not even when I hear my grandfather's usually clear voice begin to tremble. When I see in his eyes that he would rather forget, in order to experience a peaceful sleep once again… someday.
He told us about those horrors to warn us of how quickly life can plunge from safety into infinite terror. Winter had reigned. The grain was being hauled away. They still shot all those who tried to keep back pieces of it, be it a sack or some husks that had fallen from a cart. In time, hunger began to drive people in our village insane. Parents locked up their children so they wouldn't be taken by neighbors to feed their hunger. Friends turned their backs on each other and killed each other in fights for the last livestock that was still breathing. The streets reeked of decay and death, of misery and suffering. One day, my grandfather told us, he had hidden in the back room of his house while his parents dragged themselves, emaciated, to the fields to pick the last scraps of grain from the furrows with their dirty, half-frozen fingers. He had come across a book there, a book that had saved his life.
The word of God. An old Bible.
My grandfather had learned to read at an early age, one of the sad advantages of living in the Soviet Union.
It was in the room I now live in that Grandfather Fomenko had found the dusty book. Actually, he had been looking for something to eat, the days before he had found some sawdust. But despite his hunger and the grumbling in his stomach, eating the book was out of the question. Books were sacred, and no book as sacred as this one. He had begun to read and learned about the greatness of the Lord. Of the miracles his Son had performed. And of the magic of faith. His stomach had growled, but he had ignored it. The words gave him comfort.
The next day he immersed himself in the book again, disappearing into better worlds and times, hearing wisdom and encouragement. But around noon there was a knock at the door. My grandfather emphasized each time that he had not been afraid, that he had known that the Lord would protect him, when the old neighbor gained entrance to our house armed with a cleaver. It was clear what he wanted: Meat. My grandfather told us each time about how the neighbor had looked more undead than human, stinking and with sunken eyes, smelling like death from his mouth, the cleaver trembling in his hand.
"I'm sorry, boy," was all the man could get out.
My grandfather tried to mimic this poor man’s voice at the end of his wits, to express his pain through words so that we understood that poor fellow a little.
The Lord's words had given courage to my grandfather in his most terrible moments. He had stood up and firmly said:
"Away with you, the Lord protects the inhabitants of this house!"
But the intruder did not care, coming closer. And so, my grandfather again sought comfort and prayed. He prayed for mercy and peace and for his life. He would serve the Lord for the rest of his days. Trust Him blindly.
Suddenly, like a gruesome miracle, the famished intruder let out an inhuman groan and collapsed, lifeless and debilitated. There had been no hunger for my grandfather and his family for a week after that. My grandfather had been praying to the Lord since that day, thanking Him for His mercy. The story spread around the village and out of desperation or hope, in the next few days everyone secretly knelt in front of small wooden crosses they had made themselves and prayed to the Lord. A week later, like a miracle, the long-awaited delivery of grain arrived, along with spring. There had not been another bad time since then.
These events are the reason for the faith in our village... and our family. The psalm my grandfather had prayed as the hungry neighbor attacked had become the guiding psalm of our faith. All these years we had not been able to celebrate Christmas with the other families, but since the restrictions on faith communities had been relaxed, we had all finally decided to celebrate the holy festival in the village square. And so, we started the preparations.
There, in those evening hours, my part of the story begins. I and my younger sister Zarina, together with other youths and young adults, were fetching wood for the fire that was to burn in the center of our village. So, we went out into the night, dressed with thick pelts, to fetch logs from the edge of the fields that some men had prepared.
My breath could be seen as an icy breeze in the dawning darkness and I was already looking forward to dancing around the fire with everyone later, drinking good drinks and eating sumptuously. I was glad that we didn't have to walk across the fields themselves, but could stroll along their edge to get the logs.
You can feel death when it has hit a place. I was glad that I didn't have to work the fields myself, and had learned the carpentry trade. Therefore, I was spared from having to wander around there every day, among the echoes of past atrocities and sadness.
We were all in good spirits, strolling over the muddy ground, when all at once Zarina pointed up and into the clear night sky.
"Look, an angel is descending!" she exclaimed excitedly.
We all looked to where her outstretched hand pointed. A round light glowed in the night sky, glaring yellowish and shining strangely cold.
"It's singing! At Christmas! The Lord puts our feast under his sign!" Zarina cried.
We stopped and listened into the silence of the night. At first, I could hear nothing, at first, everything remained quiet, and only the distant beating of axes and the rustling of the wind in the treetops were audible.
But then, there in the wind, I could hear it, briefly but clearly. It was a kind of melodic whisper, joyful, yet also strange and otherworldly. It was heard only very briefly, and soon died away as the glow flew out of sight and disappeared somewhere far away.
"Let's go find the angel! Let's..." Zarina cried, continuing excitedly, but I interrupted her.
"We have to get the wood. We can report back to the village later, if it hasn't already been noticed there too," I said.
"You heard the singing! Surely that was an angel. Shall we leave it there? It may have gotten hurt, it must have hit something!" Sasha murmured.
Sasha was my oldest friend and one of the boys who worked on the fields. He had always been very caring and had always tried to help where he could. His parents were long dead and the old lady who had raised him was no longer around, either. So, he struggled along, working the fields, but the rest of us looked out for him.
"Shouldn't we go and look for it, Ilya?", Sasha continued to urge me anxiously.
We thought about it for a long time but decided to leave the decision to the others in the village. Trusting the Lord to guide our actions, we quickly moved on in the direction of the woodcutters to complete our task.
We were not the only ones who had seen the glow. When we returned to the village square loaded with logs, everyone was in great excitement and full of joy that the Lord had sent us this sign of His greatness. Not everyone agreed whether it was an angel or a return of the poinsettia that had been witnessed, but everyone was sure that the Lord had sent us encouragement. So, we celebrated our first Christmas full of joy and pleasure, with good food, dancing and singing, full of happiness and under the protection of the Almighty Lord. I will always think back to those days, always keep in my heart how I glimpsed a part of the Lord in the sky.
We all talked about the event and even the older people were fascinated and inspired. Even my grandfather and the others who had witnessed the worst death and misery in the world seemed to slowly find a spiritual peace they would never have dreamed of otherwise. They were happy and strengthened in their faith. However, we were not sure if it had really been an angel who had come down and so we hesitated to go and look for the creature of God.
But in the night, after the light had shone in the sky, I was awakened by Zarina crying in her sleep. I straightened up and slowly paced over to her bed, where in the semi-darkness she began to squirm, shaken by spasms.
"No, no, no..." she moaned painfully.
I began to shake her to wake her up. Zarina did not respond to me. Her face was like a distorted mask hiding something bad underneath. Her breathing became shallow, and she began to whimper. I was terrified and began to pray. The Lord had to save her, He just had to save her!
Zarina twitched more and more, started coughing and whimpering louder and louder. Slowly, the rest of the family woke up and my parents and grandfather huddled tightly around her, praying for her to open her eyes.
"Please, don't take our child! She has only been in your world for fourteen years..." my father cried, as panicked and desperate as I had ever seen before.
His thick, black mustache trembled with fear.
Then, abruptly, Zarina stopped convulsing.
For a terrible moment she just lay there, her hair disheveled, her face pale in the glow of the candle my mother held over her.
"Mom, Dad, Ilya, Grandpa... what's wrong?" she suddenly asked sleepily.
For a moment it was as if nothing had happened, as if I hadn't just seen my sister almost die, but then she began to cry.
"What's wrong, dear?" my father asked, just as pale in the face as Zarina.
It took a while before she found some calm and was able to talk to us.
Finally, she croaked:
"I saw the angel. I was with him."
A revelation? Had the Lord touched my sister?
We all said another prayer and finally, filled with awe, I asked:
"Where did you see the angel? Is it here? With us?"
She looked at me briefly, seemed to hesitate for a little moment, and then reported:
"I was with it… in a dream. It was in a white village, a village made of angel dust. I saw it. It didn't have wings and that's why at first I wasn't sure if it was an angel. However, soon it spoke to me."
"What did it say, Zarina?", I asked tensely.
"It said it was not God, but 'the Witness'. It sounded like a man and a woman and a child and a baby and... It felt peaceful. Calm and carefree. Then I woke up."
"An angel. Angels are the witnesses of God, that's how it must be!" my father said enthusiastically.
Suddenly, everyone seemed to be talking at once.
No one knew what Zarina's words meant, but we were sure that they contained something incomprehensible that we, as ordinary people, could not understand. But everyone was delighted. Everyone was caught in a beautiful dream.
The next day, the adults sat together in the large barn near the edge of the village, which was used for community events. Most of them found seats on the lined up wooden benches and the rest stood crowded against the old walls, some of which were already rotten. Dimitri, probably the closest thing to a mayor, sat at a heavy pine table at the end of the room, staring at the crowd, while my parents and Zarina sat on old chairs in front of him. Tensely, the crowd looked at them, waiting for someone to say something. Finally, Dimitri cleared his throat thoughtfully.
"You... all saw or heard about the falling star. It was brighter than the others that keep crossing our sky and much more... melodic. Some even heard the singing. Whoever still doubted that the Lord sent us his messenger... doubts are now useless. Zarina has received a vision. She has seen how the angel, who was sent by God, walked on our earth, and visited a village and consecrated it with its grace. She has seen the angel marching to spread holiness in these lands..."
"Are we sure?"
Mary, the dressmaker, had stood up. She was still young, my age and Sasha's, and she always wore her blond hair carefully braided, her dresses self-made, blood red and flashy, with silver embroidery. As always, she wore makeup - a luxury not many could afford. In other places she would have been considered a lady, but she was also a skeptical person, and I had not liked her very much since childhood, because she often made insinuations that seemed to go against the Lord. Also, she had never played with us outside and had always thought of herself as someone… better. I was shocked that she now so obviously doubted the Lord's actions.
"Mary. Zarina has seen a vision. The Lord spoke to her through her dreams! An angel has joined us. How can you deny it?" my father asked coldly.
"I'm not denying it, I'm just saying, what if there is something dark that the angel was sent to fight? What if it is going into battle against some unknown evil? The angel may be spreading sanctities, but we have no idea if it is trying to redeem us or defend us..."
"It said it was a witness of God," I noted.
"That's what Zarina said when she woke up."
"Then it is benevolent to us! We must find it!" someone shouted from one of the back rows.
An excited murmur began to spread through the room.
"Silence!" Dimitri thundered.
His face looked hard but determined.
"We have to get to it! If it is a message from heaven that the angel wants to bring us, we must hear it! How many can we spare? Who would even want to voluntarily leave the village? We don't know how long the journey will be, and you yourselves know how dangerous this area can be..."
A loud commotion broke out. Everyone shouted at once and volunteered. I also jumped up and loudly offered to go out to look for it.
The angel. The Witness of the Lord.
I imagined meeting it in a clearing, under a full moon. Hearing its bright voice, gaze in awe at its graceful form, and fall to my knees in prayer before it.
"SILENCE!" Dimitri shouted.
"You can't all go. The kids wouldn't make it in the deadly cold out there. Let seven go. Seven is the Lord's number, there must be seven! Seven workers from the fields! We can't spare any more!"
"You can't be serious!" I cried out.
Cold anger boiled up inside me.
"I want to go, too. We all want to. You can't just stand there and make a decision like that!"
Others joined in.
"SILENCE," Alexeij now thundered, the master blacksmith.
"We need you! Daniil, Ilya, Nikita, you have a job to do! We can't get by without you! You can't go, be reasonable!"
"But if the Lord wills it, he will make sure that everything here will work out. That nothing will happen!", I tried to argue, still boiling with anger.
"No. Winter is tugging at our huts, we need you," my father said slowly.
"So do the others. Without you, it's going to be tight. The fields lie under the snow, but everything else will be weakened by time and storms. We can only spare the field hands. Besides, they're the ones most likely to withstand the cold and the wilderness; after all, they're constantly out on the Fields of Death, toiling in the wind and rain. They'll all make the trip!"
I tried to change his mind, and several came to my aid, all those who were also forced to stay.
"You can manage without a dressmaker! I want to go too!" Mary cried defiantly, her cheeks red with anger, her nose wrinkled.
This young woman really believed she deserved the sight of the angel! She really believed her hypocrisies would deceive the Lord, despite her obvious doubts about His divinity!
Others also complained, young and old, many who didn't deserve to go and even those who did.
But it didn't help.
Dimitri was in charge. Everyone knew that. If we started to contradict him, our village would soon end up in chaos. And deep down I knew that I had to stay. That I had to take care of my sister, who would not survive a trip in the snow. That I had to repair the huts that the storms would eat away at.
Sasha was a field worker, he was allowed to go. Sasha and Sofia, Anatoly and old Igor, Ivan and Yulia and Mikhail. When the decision was made, a decision many of us accepted only with heavy hearts and which brought out deep envy in several faces, some of the chosen ones began to cry. They were happy, fulfilled... satisfied. They would see the messenger of the Lord, hear its melodious voice, sing its hymns.
Why wasn't I allowed to go? Why was the world so unfair? I had always believed in the Lord, prayed to Him, been subject to Him and lived according to His will. Why hadn't he chosen me to see his messenger? I had been so proud back when I had been allowed to learn the carpenter's trade and thus had not to go to the Fields of Death to toil there. At that time, I had felt like someone better when I saw Sasha and Sofia setting out early in the morning with all the other workers, with their old-fashioned plows and thick, shabby clothes.
Was this the punishment for my arrogance?
The Lord knew everything. He had seen what repulsive thoughts I had had, how superior I had felt to the others. Perhaps it was my punishment that I was not allowed to go. Perhaps the Lord was no longer favorable to me and I would have to prove myself to Him.
The next day, the seven set out north. They were seen off with singing and dancing; they were the center of the village’s attention. Envy threatened to drown me.
Why not me? Why wasn't I allowed to go? Why did I have to stay here?
And I knew: it was because of these thoughts. I wasn't pure enough. I had to get better, work on myself.
As the others disappeared from sight, as the small group seemed to be swallowed up by a patch of forest between distant trees, an icy chill ran down my spine.
What if they really did encounter evil? What if Mary had been right?
I prayed to the Lord that they would return home safely: Even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.
He would bring them home safely, our pilgrims. I did not begrudge them their happiness. I was not a selfish person, was not complacent like Mary or some others in the village. I lived by the word of the Lord and I would not begrudge them.
They would all return home safely.
I continued to stare into the distance for a long time as my suppressed envy sought to consume me. But I was winning.
For darkness is as light to you.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Even though the days and weeks passed, I never forgot to think of all those who had set out to witness the glory of the Lord. The cold winter had passed and frost and cold left the land, so that soon we could begin to prepare the fields for sowing. Since the sighting of the angel had caused us to let some of the farm workers leave, and they stayed away longer than we had expected, I had to join others in helping to plow the Fields of Death. The work was exhausting and made me physically very tired, since I still had to work in the carpenter's shop as well. We could not afford tractors, so we still had to resort to older tools. So, it happened that one day I was driving one of the hand plows through the dirty ground and was lost in my thoughts and full of sweat.
I was quite far away from the village, as the nearby surroundings had been worked shortly after the beginning of the thaw. The fields were extensive, partly reaching further than the eye could see. Only in one direction the dense forest extended, which introduced the beginning of a dark hilly landscape, that finally merged northward into high, alien mountains, whose white peaks rose high into the sky and, like once the tower of Babel, blasphemously tried to penetrate the heavens. But next to these distant giants there was only the plain, the vast plain that had to be tilled.
I hated the field work. And I hated the fields.
Every time I even thought about this piece of hell that had become reality long ago, my stomach turned. All the events that clung to this dark place, all the human lives and suffering that had sown the ground with death and blood here many years ago....
It was even worse when you stood in the fields yourself, truly being there on your own. It was as if I could smell it in the air, the rot of the starving and the hot blood that had watered the soil. It was as if I could still hear in the air the cries and wailing of the people who had met their end here, who had pleaded for their lives and the lives of their children and friends. It was as if I could see them in the early morning fog banks that lay on the Fields of Death, the shadows of people past, crawling and cowering, weak and starved. I had to pull myself together and look away, into the forest. A place does not forget, a place always remembers the days gone by and the cries that had been.
The plow pulled through the ground, ripping a furrow behind it. It was almost a bit comforting to imagine I was gutting this place of horror with my labor, inflicting deep wounds. Hypnotized, I stared down over and over again, watching the ground swirl to one side, smelling the fresh earth being pushed to the surface. But never could I escape my terrible feelings and the forebodings, never could I forget what kind of place I was at.
The few times I looked to the forest beside me, my thoughts wandered enviously to all those who had set out to find the angel. Had they reached it yet? Had they already learned from it what needed to be done for God's power on earth to be strengthened so that false prophets and promises could be swept away? How to drown the selfishness of the state? What needed to be done to serve the Lord?
Oh, how I would have loved to be there! How I would have loved to go with them, but I also understood the decision not to send everyone, and I understood my family's objections. I was needed here. I could serve the Lord here by tilling the fields and taking care of the soil and the sowing. I had to care for my sister.
I had already made several furrows when noon came. The sun was almost not visible, just a murky spot behind the clouds, and the fog had not lifted either. The world looked pale and apathetic. But amongst all the desolation I could suddenly hear something, something that seemed to come out of the forest.
It was at first just like a rustling in the wind that sounded a bit too regular, such that it triggered a natural uneasiness in me. I looked into the forest, but could hardly make out anything through the dense plants and the still lingering fog. That is why it was left to my own thoughts to imagine what was there, what was producing this strange noise.
I could not remember any animal that made similar sounds, was at a loss.
Suddenly, a bang echoed through the forest, accompanied by a panicked scream that broke inhumanly from the trees and spread across the fields.
Then, something new joined the sounds in the air.
The trees and bushes rustled, almost seemed to be torn apart.
Something was running through the forest, something seemed to be... coming right at me.
Was it perhaps a startled bear, an elk, or a wild boar?
Had one of the hunters from the village accidentally startled an animal, scared it in the wrong direction and now wanted to warn us with their cry? But then, why this panicked sound...?
I paused, took my hands off the rusty handles of the plow, and turned toward the forest. Still, I could only see fog, I could only hear rustling, but slowly I could also make out grunts and groans coming to me from the fog. It sounded heavy and panic-stricken.
Was I in danger? I began to pray to the Lord and ask him for assistance. I was not a fighter and so I had to hope that nothing would reach me from the depths between the trees that could easily tear me apart.
Even the darkness will not be dark to you; the night will shine like the day, for darkness is as light to you.
My baptismal motto gave me courage. The Lord saw me, even in my darkness, and would be with me.
For darkness is as light to you.
Then, someone burst out of the bushes and the fog and rushed toward me.
It was Sasha.
I almost didn't recognize him. His skin was pale, almost snow-white. His black hair stuck to his sweaty face. His pants and jacket were almost completely torn, so I could see his dirty shirt and his cut and bruised legs through the holes. There were also some small cuts on his face that worried me. Sasha's eyes twitched searchingly, panicked, and in his hand, he held the rifle that he had taken with him when he had once set out. Apparently, he had run through brush and thorns, had gotten scrapes and wounds from stones and branches.
When he saw me and looked at me with his big, panic-filled eyes, I became horridly afraid.
It was as if… behind his eyes there was no Sasha anymore, but only an animal. As if instinct had taken over his thoughts when an unnamable terror had entered his world. An animal inside him, which had enabled him to escape from... something.
Sasha staggered out of the forest, it was almost as if all strength left him now that he was back home. The rifle fell from his hand and dug into the mud beneath his feet. He limped slowly toward me, not taking his eyes off me. Then, suddenly, he wheeled around and looked back into the forest and the mist.
Only for a moment.
Again, he let out a shrill scream and sprinted the last few meters. When I looked into the forest myself, I saw nothing, only the fog.
But, didn't I feel a presence there, in the bushes? Between the trees?
I didn't see anything.
Sasha had reached me and collapsed. I quickly knelt down next to him and called for help. But the other field workers had already rushed over, obviously attracted by the rifle shot. I was in a trance, seeing only Sasha lying there, supporting his head. His eyes were still twitching around and despite my proximity he didn't seem to recognize me. He looked at me, confused.
"Sasha, what happened?", I asked, feeling his forehead.
Despite his paleness, he was uncomfortably hot.
A fever raged in his body. Who knew how long he had been running around there among the trees, his protective, warming jacket torn? With wounds that had not been tended and some of which were still bleeding?
Then another horrible thought occurred to me.
"Sasha, where are the others? Sasha, where are the others?"
This question apparently brought back some clarity that his gaze had not possessed before.
"They... they took them. Took all of them... All of them. All our brothers, all our sisters... all of them," he gurgled.
*********
So, this is the first part of what I found. I will hurry to translate the rest! But I will definitely stay out of the woods for now... They are still as creepy as described by Ilya in this document and fog ist still around every morning... Also, I don't know what to make of Ilya himself as well, is he just a religious nut and that is the explanation? I just don't know...

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PUBLISHED SUN, MAY 28 20238:00 AM EDTUPDATED TUE, MAY 30 20239:53 PM EDT
Rakuten Viki, a streaming service owned by Japanese ecommerce giant Rakuten, has seen a surge in growth in recent years across various Asian language content.
The company said its registered user base grew by 27% globally in 2022, leading the streamer to increase its investment in content by 17% that year. Korean content remains the majority of what is consumed on the service, but viewership for Japanese, Chinese and Thai-language shows increased, too.
Karen Paek, vice president of marketing at Rakuten Viki, said in an interview that while the company has been in the Asian entertainment space for more than 10 years, it’s recently seen a growing interest and passion around the world for its shows, which are mostly licensed.
“For Viki specifically, we have been seeing a shift in terms of the ethnic makeup of our viewership toward non-Asians,” Paek said. “But at the same time, the whole audience size is growing.”
Paek said the streamer sees a boost in registered viewers and viewership in general when hits like “Squid Game” hit the mainstream.
The user base for Rakuten Viki has been so passionate that the subtitles for much of its content are actually generated by a volunteer community around the world. Its content is mainly produced and created in Asian countries, although the service licenses hits like “The Farewell,” especially during Asian American Pacific Islander month, for its U.S. audience.
https://www.cnbc.com/2023/05/28/squid-game-eeao-global-demand-for-streaming-asian-movies-tv-grows.html

There’s something I’m trying so hard to cope with for a few days and I don’t know if i need some reassurance or not but my GF broke up with for almost 8 months ago. I can easily say that I went through the typical stages of grieving all this time. Luckily I handled very maturely and well and did not beg or plead. I went NC ever since.
I’m not gonna lie, i was checking her social media IG account from time to time but I can say with confident that it did not affect my daily life. We were following each other but both being muted by stories and not liking each other posts.. I also went off social media for a long time and did not post anything.
Recently i went to a really nice island trip and I had a blast. I posted my trip pictures on instagram after a long time. However, just a few days later she has unfollowed me after 8 months. It made me sit back with myself and think maybe I was in bargaining stage this whole time because deep down i kinda thought if she saw my posts maybe she would feel some slight regrets or remorse about me.. or at least reaching for casual checking.. i guess not ;(
I feel I’m back so many steps backwards in my healing process.

The entirety of Harry "Truck" Hannah's major league career came with the New York Yankees -- all three years of it. But if you include his participation in the minors, he had a long career, beginning in 1909 with the Tacoma Tigers in the Northwestern League and ending in 1940 with the Memphis Chickasaws in the Southern Association. He is one of only a handful of players to have a hit in five different decades!
Of all the forgotten Yankee with memorable nicknames -- No Neck, Stanky the Yankee, Sailor Bob, Spud, Slow Joe, The Mummy, Birdie, Bump, and Grandma Johnny -- there's something to be said about the sublime elegance of a big, brawny catcher nicknamed Truck.
James Harrison Hannah Jr. was born 134 years ago today, on June 5, 1889, in what was then the Dakota Territory. (It would become the state of North Dakota about five months later.) By age 2, the family had moved to Seattle, Washington.
As a kid, he was called Harry, but by the time he was playing baseball, he was universally known as Truck. There are several stories as to how he got the nickname. Some said it had to do with his imposing size -- he stood 6'1" and weighed a solid 190 pounds -- and others because of the way he could block the plate as easily as a truck could block a street. Other sources say the nickname wasn't comparing him to a motor vehicle but to a horse, or rather a truck horse, as horses that pulled heavy wagons were called at the time. His daughter, Helen, said he got the nickname simply because he was "big and slow."
Another explanation, a little less colorful, was that Hannah paid the bills in the off-season by working as a truck driver!
Hall of Fame Umpire Billy Evans said Hannah was adept at the catcher's trick of distracting the batter with a steady stream of banter while behind the plate:

"Truck Hannah always has been an object of interest to me when catching. Aside from always doing a pretty good job receiving, he never failed to have a line of conversation that would make a bigger hit on the vaudeville circuit than some of the stuff used by some monologue artists. Hannah keeps up a continual chatter from the time the game starts. Of course, his conversation is largely directed at the batter, in the hope that his line of talk will take the mind of the batter from his work, the making of base hits. He seeks to keep the batter from concentrating, and from the many strikes slipped over by the New York pitchers, I would say there was merit in his system. Hannah's conversation is never objectionable. He usually has the batter laughing at some of his talk, rather than sore."

But Hannah used more than just banter to distract batters. As the pitch was being delivered, he would sometimes spit tobacco juice onto a player's shoes, toss pebbles onto the plate, or throw dirt at their hands on the bat!
Hannah got his start in professional baseball as a 20-year-old third baseman with the Tacoma Tigers in the Northwestern League. When the team needed an emergency catcher, Hannah was put behind the plate and stuck there for the rest of his career. Over the next five years he played for five different teams in four different leagues, until in 1914 finally catching on with the Sacramento Wolves in the Pacific Coast League. The PCL at the time was considered by some to be a third major league, or at least the minor league closest to major league competition, and Hannah was regarded as one of the best catchers in the league. He drew interest from several major league teams, including the Tigers, Phillies, and Browns. But it was the Yankees who finally acquired him, paying $4,000 to acquire his rights after he hit .292 in 569 at-bats in 1917.
Truck pulled into the Polo Grounds -- not Yankee Stadium, which wouldn't be built until 1923 -- as the foundation was being laid for a dynasty. Jacob Ruppert and Tillinghast Huston purchased the Yankees in 1915 and immediately set about reversing the fortunes of what had been for years one of the worst-run teams in the American League. The Yankees, as they became known in 1913, had only winning season in the last 10 years.
The new owners set about making changes, acquiring a number of valuable players: Wally Pipp, Home Run Baker, Ping Bodie, Aaron Ward, Urban Shocker, and previously forgotten Yankee Bob Shawkey.
After the 1917 season they made the biggest change of all, firing well-liked manager Bill Donovan and replacing him with former St. Louis Cardinals manager Miller Huggins, who over the next 11 years would lead the Yankees to six pennants and three World Series.
Huggins made another move, acquiring from the St. Louis Browns future Hall of Fame pitcher "Gettysburg Eddie" Plank and veteran second baseman Del Pratt. The latter would be a good player for the Yankees, hitting .295/.348/.394 (106 OPS+) over the next three seasons, but the 42-year-old Plank refused to report and retired instead. In return, the Yankees shipped out five players... including starting catcher Les Nunamaker, who had been with the Yankees for four seasons.
And so, needing a catcher to replace Nunamaker, the Yankees paid the Salt Lake City Bees $4,000 for Hannah. He was expected to battle 22-year-old Muddy Ruel to be the backup to the 25-year-old Roxy Walters, who had been Nunamaker's understudy since September 1915, but Ruel would be drafted into the U.S. Army and Walters broke his finger in an exhibition game 10 days before Opening Day. By the time Walters was ready to play again, Hannah was hitting .288/.432/.356 and had thrown out 19 out of 34 basestealers; over the rest of the season, he would maintain that pace to lead the league in CS% (55%) as well as in double plays as a catcher (16). His batting average would fade dramatically, however, dropping all the way to .220 by the end of the season, but he was still contributing with a .361 OBP in 312 plate appearances. Walters's bat never got started at all, and hitting just .199/.239/.236 in 205 plate appearances.
Technically a major league rookie when he joined the team, the 29-year-old Hannah was treated like a veteran from his four seasons in the well-respected Pacific Coast League. In addition, he was -- literally as well as figuratively, at 6'1" -- one of the few players on the team who could see eye-to-eye with the 6'2" Babe Ruth when he was acquired prior to the 1920 season. When Ruth got into squabbles with diminutive manager Miller Huggins, it was often Hannah's duty to keep the peace.
Yankee shortstop Roger Peckinpaugh, the Yankee captain from 1914 to 1921, described one such incident to long-time Yankee PR man Marty Appel in 1974:

"Once we were leaving Boston after a tough loss, and Babe was drunk, and he said he was gonna throw Huggins off the train! He was heading for his drawing room. On the way he stopped in the men’s room and punched this huge mirror. It fell into a million pieces. Me and Ernie Shore and Truck Hannah pulled him down to the ground and sat on him until he passed out. Truck — a big guy — puts him over his shoulder and moves him to the next car."

At the end of the season, the Yankees were happy enough with Hannah that they traded Roxy Walters to the Red Sox. For the next two years, the catching duties were almost evenly split between Hannah and Ruel, who was back from the Army with the end of World War I.
The "Muddy-Truck" tandem was colorfully named but disappointing, with Ruel hitting .255/.325/.306 (71 OPS+) in 560 PA and Hannah .243/.313/.317 (70 OPS+) in 553 PA. Catcher in those days was very much a defense-first position, and both had good gloves, but the Yankees (even with the newly acquired Babe Ruth having an 11.7 bWAR season) finished three games out of 1st in 1920.
Ruppert and Huston asked Huggins what the team needed to win, and his answer: a catcher.
At the end of the season, the Yankees sent Hannah back to the Pacific Coast League, and traded Ruel to the Red Sox for previously forgotten Yankee Wally Schang, the first in the long line of great Yankee catchers. In his five years with the Yankees, the switch-hitting Schang hit .297/.390/.406 (105 OPS+), and in the 1923 World Series -- the first of 27 won by the Yankees -- Schang played every inning of every game, went 7-for-22 (.318) with a double and three runs scored, and allowed just one stolen base.
Hannah would stay in the Pacific Coast League for the next 22 years as a player, coach, and manager. He had a great year with the Vernon Tigers in 1923, hitting .346 with 23 doubles and 6 home runs in 370 plate appearances. His final plate appearance came on May 19, 1940, when he was managing the Memphis Chicks. Two weeks shy of his 51st birthday, with both his catchers injured, Hannah caught both ends of a doubleheader and went 1-for-6.
Hannah retired from baseball two years later after his St. Paul Saints lost 15 games in a row -- 11 of them by one run! He said he couldn't sleep anymore, replaying every loss in his head over and over, second-guessing every decision he made as manager.
He retired to his ranch in Southern California, but remained active enough in the regional baseball scene that when the Los Angeles Angels played their first major league game in 1961, Hannah was selected to catch the ceremonial first pitch.
Truck Hannah died on April 27, 1982, five weeks shy of his 93rd birthday. His wife, Helen, died in October, a month before what would have been their 70th wedding anniversary.
Keep On Truckin':

• One of the more interesting aspects in researching information about Truck Hannah is in looking for pictures of him, you come across many photos of trucks owned by women named Hannah.
  
• Hannah made his major league debut against the great Walter Johnson. In his first major league plate appearance, he singled up the middle! He popped out his second time up, then struck out. His fourth time up he drew a walk against Johnson, advanced to second on a single, and scored his first major league run on a double, and the Yankees won, 6-3. Not a bad debut against the future Hall of Famer!
  
• According to his SABR biography: "Hannah’s daughter may have led a more interesting life than her ballplaying father. Helen Lorraine (Hannah) Campbell was one of the first women in Los Angeles to enlist in the Marine Corps during World War II, and retired from the Marine Corps Reserve in 1975 after 32 years of service. She was also a chaperone for several years with the Muskegon and Kalamazoo teams in the All American Girls Professional Baseball League, the league that inspired the 1992 movie A League of Their Own. At the age of 75 she went parasailing for the first time and at 78 sailed over Africa’s Serengeti plains in a hot-air balloon. She died in 2013 at the age of 97."
  
• On May 12, 1920, Hannah went 4-for-4 (all singles) with two runs and two RBIs in a 14-8 rout of the Chicago White Sox. Hannah singled twice in a seven-run 6th inning, as did pitcher Bob Shawkey; it was the first time in major league history that a pitcher and catcher each had two hits in the same inning.
  
• That was Hannah's best day as a major leaguer, but he had another four-hit day on September 11, 1920, with a double and three singles in five at-bats against the Cleveland Indians.
  
• Truck Hannah was the first major leaguer born in what would become North Dakota when he made his debut on April 15, 1918. He also is one of three Yankees born in North Dakota: Ken Hunt, an outfielder in the Yankee farm system from 1952 to 1960 who had a couple cups of coffee in the Bronx, and later played for the Angels and Senators; and long-time Cleveland Indians 1B/DH Travis Hafner, who ended his career with the Yankees in 2013. The most famous Yankee raised in North Dakota is Roger Maris, but he was actually born in Minnesota. The family moved to Fargo when Maris was 8 years old. A total of 20 major leaguers were born in North Dakota, and the best, by bWAR, was Angels outfielder and two-time All-Star Darin Erstad.
  
• Hannah is on the All-Palindromic Last Name Team, along with Dean Anna, Toby Harrah, Eddie Kazak, Dave Otto, Glenn Otto, Dick Nen, Robb Nen, Johnny Reder, Juan Salas, and Mark Salas.
  
• In 1917, Hannah was behind the plate for the Salt Lake City Bees in the Pacific Coast League when former New York Giants outfielder Fred Snodgrass came up to the plate for the Vernon Tigers. Hannah, by this time a 28-year-old nine-year minor league veteran and hitting a respectable .292, wasn't impressed. "So you're a big leaguer? I guess you're going to come out here and show us how the Giants used to do it, eh? Let's see if you can hit this one." That off-season, major league teams asked Snodgrass for his opinion on the top players in the Pacific Coast League, and his report on Hannah: "I don’t like him personally, but I must say he is the best all around catcher in this league, and my dislike for him does not blind me to that fact."
  
• George Halas -- who would later be the founder of the Chicago Bears -- was a 24-year-old rookie on the New York Yankees in 1919. He was on the bench sitting next to Truck Hannah during a game against the Tigers, staring wide-eyed as his boyhood idol, the legendary Ty Cobb, strode to the plate. Hannah, maybe pranking the rookie, told Halas he ought to razz Cobb to try to throw him off his game. Halas did as he was told, and to his surprise, got a reaction: Cobb dropped his bat, marched over to the Yankee dugout, and pointed at Halas. "Punk! I'll see you after the game! Don't forget, punk!" Halas, a Navy veteran and a college football player, was no punk but not exactly looking forward to a brawl against the famously irascible Cobb. He stayed in the locker room as long as possible, hoping Cobb would be gone by the time he emerged, but when he finally came out, the Georgia Peach was waiting for him. "I like your spirit, kid," Cobb said, "but don't overdo it when you don't have to." Halas said it was a lesson he never forgot.
  
• Speaking of Cobb, he told a sportswriter he didn't care for Hannah's distracting patter behind the plate: “This fellow Hannah of the New York club keeps me busier at the plate than any other catcher in the league. I don’t like letting a recruit outtalk me, and in my effort to keep my end of the conversation, I had my work cut out for me making base hits off those Yankee pitchers.”
  
• Carl Mays, who had pitched for the Red Sox since 1915, was acquired by the Yankees on July 30, 1919. Delighted to go from the 38-48 Red Sox to the 48-38 Yankees, Mays made the rounds in the clubhouse, shaking hands. When he got to Hannah, he offered his hand, but Hannah shoved him away, then charged after him. Mays backed up until Hannah vaulted over a table and cornered him against a wall -- and only then did Hannah shake his hand. "We're even," Hannah said, grinning. Since the previous season, Hannah and Mays had been feuding. Mays took great pride in keeping his uniform spotless, and hated Hannah's trick of spitting tobacco juice onto his shoes while batting. So every time Hannah came up to the plate, Mays came "up and in" to make him hit the dirt. In April, the last time they'd face each other, Mays plunked him. But now they were teammates and all was forgiven. Ironically, a year later, Mays would kill Cleveland Indians shortstop Ray Chapman with a pitch that hit him in the head.
  
• During the off seasons, Hannah played in the California Winter League, believed to be the only integrated league in professional baseball at the time. Hannah also played against Negro Leaguers when barnstorming with Babe Ruth in 1920 and Dizzy Dean in 1935.
  
• Prior to the 1927 season, Babe Ruth made a silent movie called Babe Comes Home. Based on a short story called "Said With Soap," it had quite the plot: Ruth is Babe Dugan, a ballplayer whose tobacco-chewing habit means his uniform is always stained. He falls in love with Vernie, the laundress who cleans the team uniforms, but she wants him to stop chewing tobacco. Babe then goes into a slump, and finds himself on the bench. Vernie finally relents and gives him a plug of tobacco, and Babe hits a game-winning home run. The movie was filmed at Wrigley Field -- not that one, but a field with the same name in Los Angeles. It was the home stadium for the Los Angeles Angels, and on the Angels were several ex-Yankees, including Truck Hannah. Ruth was much more interested in his old pals than in the movie, and the exasperated director struggled to keep Ruth's attention. Finally, he moved Ruth to a distant park of the stadium, as far away as he could from Hannah and the other ex-Yankees. But Hannah and the others kept mischievously hitting balls in his direction, causing Ruth to botch take after take!
  
• Hannah was in two movies himself, both times as a baseball playing extra. The films are notable because they are both early "talkies". His first appearance was in 1928's Warming Up, about a pitcher (played by Richard Dix, later a star in westerns) who falls in love with the team owner's daughter (played by Jean Arthur, who would later co-star with Jimmy Stewart in Mr. Smith Goes to Washington). A year later Hannah was in Fast Company, about a baseball player (Jack Oakie) who is inspired to greatness thanks to fan letters he thinks come from a beautiful woman (Evelyn Brent) but are actually written by his conniving manager (Skeets Gallagher). In 1940, Oakie was nominated for an Academy Award for his performance as a parody of Benito Mussolini in Charlie Chaplin's The Great Dictator.
  
• Joe DiMaggio, still a teenager, played for the San Francisco Seals in the Pacific Coast League from 1932 to 1935. Hannah, with the Los Angeles Angels, played against him often. Prior to DiMaggio's debut with the Yankees in 1936, a sportswriter asked the former big leaguer for his scouting report on DiMaggio. "They'll be comparing him to Tris Speaker and Harry Hooper and those fellows in a year or two," Hannah said. Truck was right: Speaker and Hooper were both Hall of Fame outfielders, and of course, so was the Yankee Clipper.
  
• In 1936, Hannah was a playecoach for the Los Angeles Angels. Ted Williams, already a legendary hitter (and pitcher) from his exploits at Herbert Hoover High School in San Diego, was being courted by both major and minor league teams. Ted's father, Sam Williams, was acting as his agent, and he arranged a meeting with Truck Hannah to talk about a contract with the Angels. "When my dad went down to talk to him, Hannah said, 'Where's the kid?'" Williams later recalled. "Dad says, 'He's not here.' Hannah said, 'Well, for crying out loud, go get him. He's the one I want to talk to, not you!'" Insulted, Sam Williams walked away. Instead, Williams -- after turning down offers from the Yankees and the Cardinals -- signed with the newly formed San Diego Padres of the Pacific Coast League. Had he signed with the Angels, Williams likely would have been a Cub, as they were a Chicago affiliate. (But Williams, a San Diego native, likely would have signed with the Padres even if Hannah had made a better impression.)
  
• Hannah's mouth almost cost his team another teenaged prospect. In 1934, 16-year-old Steve Mesner went to an open try-out for the Los Angeles Angels, and Hannah was helping to evaluate the prospects. He took one look at Mesner and shouted, "Get out of here, kid! You're too little!" Mesner started walking off the field, but someone told him to go back. During batting practice, he hit three balls over the fence! During a fielding drill, he was handling every chance, and the coach kept hitting them harder and harder, expecting the teenager to boot one. He didn't, and the team gave him a contract. Mesner hit .328 in three years with the Angels before going to the Chicago Cubs and later the Cincinnati Reds.
  
• The winter of 1918-1919 was gripped by the "Spanish Flu" epidemic and, in a scene that would be familiar to all of us today, the players, umpires, and fans in a Southern California winter league wore face masks during the game. A photo ran in the newspaper with the catcher misidentified in the caption as "Trash" Hannah of the New York Yankees!
  
• Hannah is a member of the Pacific Coast League Hall of Fame. Some sources say he was an inaugural member when it was created in 1943; other sources say he was inducted in 1950. Other notable Yankees in the PCL HoF include Frankie Crosetti, Joe DiMaggio, and Casey Stengel.
  
• Hannah's daughter, U.S. Marine Master Gunnery Sergeant Helen Hannah Campbell, went to Whittier High School with Richard Nixon, and later served as a docent the Richard Nixon Library and Birthplace in Yorba Linda, California. Richard Nixon, who grew up watching Hannah as a player and manager in the Pacific Coast League, said in a 1983 interview: "I remember Truck Hannah. He was a great catcher and could hit."
  
• In 1925, Hannah helped organize the Association of Professional Ball Players of America, created to assist former professional baseball players who are injured, elderly, or destitute. The APBPA is still in existence today!
  

Near the end of his career, Truck Hannah was interviewed about the rigors of being a catcher. He said during his 30 years in baseball he'd broken every finger on his right hand at least twice. "What the hell, it's all part of the game," he said. "It sure was fun while it lasted. Even with busted hands and fingers and everything else, I wouldn't have missed it for the world."

Summary As Of:	05JUN @ 12:14 GMT
Countries	229 + 2
Cases	689,913,001
Deaths	6,887,334
Recovered	662,336,398
Active Cases	20,689,269

^{Countries reporting new cases: 16}

^{Countries reporting new deaths: 5}

^{Countries reporting increased Active Cases: 10}

^{Countries reporting decreased Active Cases: 16}

Complete Chart

Data Source

	With Active cases	w/No Active cases	w/All cases rcvrd
Cntry’s	221	7	2
Cases	689,913,001	7	2
Deaths	6,887,334	174,048	0
Rcvrd	662,336,398	34,174,439	1,959

^{Past 7 day totals of new: cases, deaths, recoveries & actives. With 3 & 7 day averages.}

Date	Cases	Deaths	Rcvr’s	Actives
29MAY	33,033	118	61,440	20,689,727
30MAY	39,301	333	41,801	20,795,027
31MAY	51,692	165	69,113	20,776,121
01JUN	47,763	181	58,470	20,766,605
02JUN	36,379	156	29,709	20,774,091
03JUN	26,860	20	42,991	20,779,608
04JUN	22,131	28	74,598	20,727,113
3 Day Avg	28,457	68	49,099	20,760,271
7 Day Avg	36,737	143	54,017	20,758,327

^{Cases, Deaths, Actives by Continent}

Cont	Cases	Deaths	Actives
Europe	249,473,123	2,063,031	1,934,583
N A	126,766,500	1,634,169	2,432,519
Asia	217,694,041	1,546,764	14,791,217
S A	68,739,428	1,356,301	905,881
Africa	12,823,945	258,778	479,494
Oceania	14,415,243	28,276	145,575
World	689,913,001	6,887,334	20,689,269

^{Countries with Active Cases}

Country	Cases	Deaths	Recoveries	Actives
USA	107,137,340+	1,165,733+	105,262,278+	709,329-
India	44,991,756+	531,882+	44,456,681+	3,193-
France	40,098,413	167,373	39,878,223	52,817
Germany	38,428,685	174,352	38,240,600	13,733
Brazil	37,601,257	702,907	36,249,161	649,189
Japan	33,803,572	74,694	N/A	N/A
S. Korea	31,789,625+	34,827+	31,471,666+	283,132-
Italy	25,870,833	190,517	25,560,511	119,805
UK	24,618,436+	226,278+	24,375,274+	16,884+
Russia	22,929,149	399,057	22,361,277	168,815
Turkey	17,232,066	102,174	N/A	N/A
Spain	13,890,555	121,416	13,718,476	50,663
Australia	11,622,345	21,062	11,567,426	33,857
Vietnam	11,615,377+	43,206	10,638,874+	933,297+
Mexico	7,621,062	334,167	6,869,584	417,311
Iran	7,611,931	146,267	7,366,492	99,172
Indonesia	6,808,537	161,789	6,635,068	11,680
Poland	6,517,145+	119,617	5,335,940	1,061,588+
Colombia	6,368,934	142,765	6,189,718	36,451
Austria	6,078,029	22,514	6,050,447	5,068
Greece	6,067,218	36,969	6,022,680+	7,569-
Portugal	5,588,310	26,759	5,556,228	5,323
Ukraine	5,553,031	112,352	5,432,617	8,062
Chile	5,287,634	64,497	5,223,014	123
Malaysia	5,100,249	37,087	5,044,652	18,510
Israel	4,826,031	12,527	4,798,473	15,031
Belgium	4,799,762	34,350	4,761,021+	4,391-
Thailand	4,738,988	34,053	4,692,636	12,299
Canada	4,676,878	52,425	4,588,876	35,577
Czechia	4,642,232	42,804	4,598,825+	603-
Peru	4,507,363	220,673	4,286,500+	190-
Switzerland	4,405,938	14,452	4,389,039	2,447
Philippines	4,148,401	66,476	4,068,117	13,808
South Africa	4,076,463	102,595	3,912,506	61,362
Romania	3,404,197	68,184	3,331,793	4,220
Denmark	3,181,950	8,716	3,172,748-	486+
Hong Kong	2,904,315	13,819	2,876,611+	13,885-
Sweden	2,710,457	24,389	2,683,602+	2,466-
Serbia	2,542,254	18,054	2,521,364-	2,836+
Singapore	2,472,873	1,727	2,149,583	321,563
Iraq	2,465,545	25,375	2,439,497	673
New Zealand	2,375,191	4,362	2,358,376	12,453
Hungary	2,202,887	48,873	2,151,825	2,189
Bangladesh	2,039,244	29,446	1,998,448	11,350
Slovakia	1,866,857	21,167	1,845,578	112
Georgia	1,842,046	17,070	1,776,548	48,428
Jordan	1,746,997	14,122	1,731,007	1,868
Ireland	1,712,113	8,960	1,701,665	1,488
Pakistan	1,581,069+	30,660	1,538,689	11,720+
Norway	1,484,882	5,435	1,478,595	852
Finland	1,480,370	9,750	1,467,589+	3,031-
Kazakhstan	1,411,831	13,848	1,383,020	14,963
Slovenia	1,344,048	7,100	1,328,006	8,942
Lithuania	1,320,649+	9,685+	1,309,969+	995-
Bulgaria	1,307,813+	38,392	1,267,459+	1,962+
Morocco	1,274,180	16,297	1,256,151	1,732
Croatia	1,273,795	18,255	1,255,288	252
Guatemala	1,253,321+	20,202	1,230,762+	2,357+
Lebanon	1,237,556	10,914	1,087,587	139,055
Costa Rica	1,232,576	9,374	860,711	362,491
Bolivia	1,199,694+	22,384	1,168,744+	8,566+
Tunisia	1,153,323	29,420	N/A	N/A
Cuba	1,114,342	8,530	1,105,616	196
UAE	1,067,030	2,349	1,054,525	10,156
Ecuador	1,062,275	36,019	1,025,747	509
Panama	1,040,230	8,624	1,030,855	751
Uruguay	1,038,774	7,634	1,030,944	196
Mongolia	1,008,655	2,179	1,006,086	390
Nepal	1,003,345+	12,031	991,300+	14-
Belarus	994,037	7,118	985,592	1,327
Latvia	977,891	6,344	971,406	141
Saudi Arabia	841,469	9,646	827,923	3,900
Azerbaijan	831,861	10,277	821,548	36
Paraguay	810,827	19,934	N/A	N/A
Bahrain	721,961	1,564	720,236	161
Sri Lanka	672,485	16,875	655,587	23
Kuwait	665,931	2,570	660,237	3,124
Dominican Republic	661,176	4,384	644,785	12,007
Myanmar	639,175	19,494	618,161	1,520
Palestine	621,008	5,404	615,445	159
Moldova	620,574	12,118	504,142	104,314
Estonia	618,931	3,001	524,990	90,940
Venezuela	552,695	5,856	546,537	302
Egypt	516,023	24,613	442,182	49,228
Qatar	513,672	690	512,614	368
Libya	507,263	6,437	500,825	1
China	503,302	5,272	379,053	118,977
Ethiopia	500,910	7,574	488,132	5,204
Réunion	486,588	921	418,572	67,095
Honduras	472,619	11,116	N/A	N/A
Armenia	449,203	8,750	435,162	5,291
Bosnia and Herzegovina	402,998	16,347	379,084	7,567
Oman	399,449	4,628	384,669	10,152
North Macedonia	348,281	9,677	337,068	1,536
Zambia	343,995	4,058	339,858	79
Kenya	343,074	5,688	337,309	77
Albania	334,726	3,602	329,428	1,696
Botswana	329,905	2,801	327,049	55
Luxembourg	319,959	1,232	316,690	2,037
Brunei	306,333	225	243,601	62,507
Montenegro	291,898	2,828	288,569	501
Algeria	271,841	6,881	183,053	81,907
Nigeria	266,675	3,155	259,953	3,567
Zimbabwe	265,030	5,695	258,888	447
Uzbekistan	253,662	1,637	241,486	10,539
Mozambique	233,417	2,243	228,805	2,369
Martinique	229,975	1,102	N/A	N/A
Afghanistan	222,018	7,918	198,301	15,799
Laos	218,265+	758	N/A	N/A
Iceland	209,191	229	N/A	N/A
Kyrgyzstan	206,890	2,991	196,406	7,493
Guadeloupe	202,836	1,017	N/A	N/A
El Salvador	201,785	4,230	179,410	18,145
Trinidad and Tobago	191,496	4,390	187,078	28
Maldives	186,651	315	163,687	22,649
Ghana	171,657	1,462	170,161	34
Namibia	171,310	4,091	167,099	120
Uganda	170,775	3,632	100,431	66,712
Jamaica	154,993	3,549	102,964	48,480
Cambodia	138,807+	3,056	135,716+	35-
Rwanda	133,194	1,468	131,647	79
Cameroon	125,036	1,972	122,807	257
Malta	118,756	837	117,365	554
Barbados	107,794	593	106,971	230
Angola	105,384	1,934	103,419	31
Channel Islands	101,717	228	101,321	168
French Guiana	98,041	420	11,254	86,367
DRC	96,652	1,467	84,489	10,696
Senegal	88,997	1,971	87,024	2
Malawi	88,728	2,686	85,651	391
Ivory Coast	88,331	835	87,497	-1
Suriname	82,513	1,405	N/A	N/A
New Caledonia	79,922	314	79,605	3
French Polynesia	78,581	649	N/A	N/A
Eswatini	74,670	1,425	73,116	129
Guyana	73,240	1,298	71,880	62
Belize	70,782	688	70,085	9
Fiji	68,921	883	67,029	1,009
Madagascar	68,289+	1,425	66,862+	2-
Sudan	63,993	5,046	58,696+	251-
Cabo Verde	63,934	414	63,407	113
Mauritania	63,715	997	62,471	247
Bhutan	62,671	21	61,564	1,086
Syria	57,608	3,164	54,370	74
Burundi	53,762	38	53,569	155
Seychelles	50,937	172	50,750	15
Gabon	48,992	307	48,674	11
Andorra	48,015	165	47,563	287
Papua New Guinea	46,864	670	43,982	2,212
Curaçao	45,986	295	44,720	971
Aruba	44,180	236	42,438	1,506
Tanzania	43,078	846	N/A	N/A
Mauritius	42,576	1,050	40,814	712
Mayotte	42,027	188	N/A	N/A
Togo	39,499	290	39,206	3
Guinea	38,563	468	37,757	338
Bahamas	38,084	844	36,366	874
Isle of Man	38,008	116	N/A	N/A
Lesotho	34,790	723	25,980	8,087
Faeroe Islands	34,658	28	N/A	N/A
Haiti	34,246	860	33,361	25
Mali	33,150	743	32,331	76
Cayman Islands	31,472	37	8,553	22,882
Saint Lucia	30,052	409	29,095	548
Benin	28,014	163	27,847	4
Somalia	27,334	1,361	13,182	12,791
Micronesia	26,458	65	N/A	N/A
Congo	25,375	386	24,006	983
Solomon Islands	24,575	153	N/A	N/A
San Marino	24,285	125	24,149	11
Timor-Leste	23,450	138	23,102	210
Burkina Faso	22,056	396	21,596	64
Liechtenstein	21,446	94	21,351	1
Gibraltar	20,550	113	16,579	3,858
Grenada	19,693	238	19,358	97
Bermuda	18,860	165	18,685	10
Nicaragua	18,491	225	4,225	14,041
South Sudan	18,368	138	18,115	115
Tajikistan	17,786	125	17,264	397
Equatorial Guinea	17,229	183	16,907	139
Tonga	16,817	13	15,638	1,166
Monaco	16,793	67	15,992	734
Samoa	16,763	31	1,605	15,127
Marshall Islands	16,098	17	16,079	2
Dominica	15,760	74	15,673	13
Djibouti	15,690	189	15,427	74
CAR	15,368	113	15,200	55
Gambia	12,626	372	12,189	65
Saint Martin	12,303	63	1,399	10,841
Vanuatu	12,019	14	11,976	29
Greenland	11,971	21	2,761	9,189
Yemen	11,945	2,159	9,124	662
Caribbean Netherlands	11,682	38	10,476	1,168
Sint Maarten	11,030	92	10,905	33
Niger	9,931	312	8,890	729
St. Vincent Grenadines	9,631	124	9,493	14
Guinea-Bissau	9,614	177	8,929	508
Comoros	9,109	161	8,939	9
Antigua and Barbuda	9,106	146	8,954	6
Liberia	8,090	295	7,783	12
Sierra Leone	7,762	126	N/A	N/A
Macao	7,735+	122	3,487	4,126+
Chad	7,701	194	4,874	2,633
British Virgin Islands	7,305	64	N/A	N/A
Cook Islands	7,120	2	7,106	12
Saint Kitts and Nevis	6,602	48	6,552	2
Turks and Caicos	6,588	38	6,529	21
Sao Tome and Principe	6,587	80	6,506	1
Palau	6,009	9	5,998	2
St. Barth	5,494	6	N/A	N/A
Nauru	5,393	1	5,347	45
Kiribati	5,029	24	2,703	2,302
Anguilla	3,904	12	3,879	13
Wallis and Futuna	3,508	7	438	3,063
Saint Pierre Miquelon	3,452	2	2,449	1,001
Tuvalu	2,805	0	0	2,805
Saint Helena	2,166	0	2	2,164
Montserrat	1,403	8	1,376	19
Niue	820	0	810+	10-
Tokelau	5	0	0	5
Total:	689,913,001	6,887,334	662,336,398	20,689,269

^{Countries with no active cases: 2}

Country	Cases	Deaths	Rcvrd
Falkland Islands	1,930	0	1,930
Vatican City	29	0	29
2 Total:	1,959	0	1,959

^{Countries with all cases rcvrd: 7}

Country	Cases	Deaths	Rcvrd
Argentina	10,054,251	130,509	9,923,742
Cyprus	660,854	1,364	659,490
DPRK	4,772,813	74	4,772,739
Eritrea	10,189	103	10,086
Netherlands	8,610,372	22,992	8,587,380
Taiwan	10,239,998	19,005	10,220,993
Western Sahara	10	1	9
Total:	34,348,487	174,048	34,174,439

^{International Conveyances: 2}

Class	Cases	Deaths	Rcvrd
Diamond Princess	712	13	699
MS Zaandam	9	2	7
2 Total:	721	15	706

^{Countries/Territories who do not report Active or Recovery case numbers: 19}

Country/Territory		Total: 19
British Virgin Islands	Faeroe Islands	French Polynesia
Guadeloupe	Honduras	Iceland
Isle of Man	Laos	Martinique
Mayotte	Micronesia	Paraguay
Sierra Leone	Solomon Islands	St. Barth
Suriname	Tanzania	Tunisia
Turkey

Order, order!
The House comes to Questions for Ministers. All members should be encouraged to participate by asking either primary or supplementary questions.
For example:

Madam Speaker, my question is for the Prime Minister (alisonhearts). What do they...

I call upon all members to ask questions of the following ministers:
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Portfolio	Minister	Shadow Minister	Spokesperson (South Island People's Party)	Spokesperson (Change NZ)
Prime Minister	**Rt Hon.* alisonhearts MP (TFA)*	Hon. Frost_Walker2017 ONZM MP (ACT)	purplewave_ MP (SIPP)	TheOWOTriangle CNZM MP (CHA)
Deputy Prime Minister	Hon. Gregor_The_Beggar KNZM MP (LAB)	vacant	abrokenhero MP (SIPP)	TheOWOTriangle CNZM MP (CHA)
Defence	Rt Hon. alisonhearts MP (TFA)	Hon. eelsemaj99 QSM MP (ACT)	abrokenhero MP (SIPP)	TheOWOTriangle CNZM MP (CHA)
Associate Defence	Hon. KiwiAnimations (LAB)	Hon. eelsemaj99 QSM MP (ACT)	abrokenhero MP (SIPP)	TheOWOTriangle CNZM MP (CHA)
Education	Rt Hon. alisonhearts MP (TFA)	Hon. Frost_Walker2017 ONZM MP (ACT)	abrokenhero MP (SIPP)	keithstarmer1 MP (CHA)
Environment and Infrastructure	Rt Hon. Sir model-frod CH ONZ KNZM QSO MP (LAB)	Hon. Frost_Walker2017 ONZM MP (ACT)	purplewave_ MP (SIPP)	TheOWOTriangle CNZM MP (CHA)
Finance	Hon. Gregor_The_Beggar KNZM MP (LAB)	Hon. Frost_Walker2017 ONZM MP (ACT)	purplewave_ MP (SIPP)	TheOWOTriangle CNZM MP (CHA)
Associate Finance	Hon. TheTrashMan_10 MP (TPM)	Hon. Frost_Walker2017 ONZM MP (ACT)	purplewave_ MP (SIPP)	TheOWOTriangle CNZM MP (CHA)
Foreign Affairs	Hon. Aussie-Parliament-RP MP (TFA)	Hon. eelsemaj99 QSM MP (ACT)	purplewave_ MP (SIPP)	TheOWOTriangle CNZM MP (CHA)
Health	Hon. mikiboss MP (TFA)	PoliticoBailey MNZM MP (ACT)	purplewave_ MP (SIPP)	TheOWOTriangle CNZM MP (CHA)
Internal Affairs	Hon. zhuk236 MP (GLB)	Hon. Frost_Walker2017 ONZM MP (ACT)	abrokenhero MP (SIPP)	TheOWOTriangle CNZM MP (CHA)
Justice	Rt Hon. alisonhearts MP (TFA)	Hon. Frost_Walker2017 ONZM MP (ACT)	purplewave_ MP (SIPP)	TheOWOTriangle CNZM MP (CHA)
Māori and Pasifika Affairs	Hon. Gregor_The_Beggar KNZM MP (LAB)	Hon. Frost_Walker2017 ONZM MP (ACT)	purplewave_ MP (SIPP)	TheOWOTriangle CNZM MP (CHA)
Associate Māori and Pasifika Affairs	Hon. TheTrashMan_10 MP (TPM)	Hon. Frost_Walker2017 ONZM MP (ACT)	purplewave_ MP (SIPP)	TheOWOTriangle CNZM MP (CHA)
Rural Affairs	Rt Hon. Sir model-frod CH ONZ KNZM QSO MP (LAB)	Hon. Frost_Walker2017 ONZM MP (ACT)	abrokenhero MP (SIPP)	TheOWOTriangle CNZM MP (CHA)

Please note: question limits pursuant to the Constitution apply.
This session will be open until 11:59pm, 12th of June.

I recently purchased my first property to dip my toes in the water. I'm trying to work out how much the property is cash flowing negatively per month. (And what it will take to cash wise to cash flow positively.)
Does anyone have a month-over-month spreadsheet template they can share that tracks the property income, expenses etc?
For anyone interested here's the stats for my first purchase and rental.
Property stats:
Purchase. -4 Bedroom 2.5 bathroom. Residential in South Africa Kwazulu-Natal. -Purchase price R3,450,000.00 -Transfer duties R195,500.00 -Deposit R0 -Variable Interest 10% (Currently very high in South Africa) -Monthly repayment R32,701 -Property insurance R782
Rent. Rented to a tenant for R30,000 Rental management fees 8% per month
My reason for buying this property was because it looks way nicer than other homes in the area so I assumed people would pay more rent. People tend to fall in love with this home. Average rent in the area is R26k, I got a tenant on the first day of listing at R30k. Pretty lucky there.
My goal for this property is to get it to cash flow positvely by paying more of the mortgage off quicker (increasing equity.)
Then after that my goal is to buy a second property that cash flows instantly using what I learned through this property.
It's probably worth mentioning I'm a complete newbie to all this so I'm still learning all the best practices, lingo etc. That said, feel free to rip my strategy a new one so that I can learn from my mistakes early.
Would appreciate all the help I can get. Any tips or recommendations on what to do next welcomed.

This Post is the comprehensive write-up adjunct to the original video post here:
If you have not watched the video post yet... please watch first as the post below will make much more sense if you do so.
TL/DR:
MAX and WEAK EV States are terms I created to describe a Low MPG mechanism that affects Toyota Prius/Hybrid City MPG's potentially by 5-10+.
The EV States are software parameters in the Hybrid Control ECU that change how EV Mode behaves at city speeds (0-40ish MPH).
A MAX EV State Prius uses EV Mode Agressively to accelerate and maintain speed in city traffic during a wide range of State of Charges without the Combustion Engine kicking on... causing the Prius to get the EPA estimated mpgs for city or better.
A WEAK EV State Prius never uses EV Mode Aggressively in City traffic at any State of Charge or any circumstance... Instead the Internal Combustion Engine will kick on with little pedal pressure to deliver power instead of using the HV Battery like the MAX EV State. This causes mpgs to be frequently lower than EPA estimates by 5-10+.
Above 40 mphish when the Prius engine needs to run all the time due to how the transmission works, or when flooring it, EV/Engine Power Output behavior are the same for both the MAX and WEAK EV State and MPG is also the same after this point... so highway mpgs are largely unaffected.
A Toyota Prius/Hybrid will be reset to the WEAK EV State after a 12v Disconnect, and is supposed to revert to the MAX EV State after periods of driving as part of it's software programming. But this does not always happen and sometimes the Prius will become stuck in the WEAK EV State for years, 10,000s of miles, or potentially forever... chronically reducing MPG's.
The problem is there is nothing that shows these EV States exist outright. No code, parameter, or statement has been released by Toyota that shows the EV States exist or describes why they happen... It's essentially a phantom issue residing in the software engineering of the Prius that changes how EV Mode behaves, reducing mpg. You can measure the behavioral differences the EV States cause, but no one has done that yet. I am trying to change that.
My Prius has been stuck in the WEAK EV State for 3+ years and 50,000 miles at this point after a 12v Disconnect... Because of this I have not been able to measure the MAX EV State.
To make a proveable case about this issue, I will need help from the Prius Community to make the necessary measurements for the MAX EV State.
This post is my attempt to build a case with all the evidence I can find to prove these EV States exist. After presenting all of this evidence, I hope to garner help from the Prius Community to prove the EV States indefinitely by measuring the MAX EV State... either by testing someone's MAX EV State Prius myself... or having that Prius owner test their Prius for me.
I believe Toyota has actually already been sued for this WEAK EV State I've described, but the cause of the Low MPG wasn't understood. This could be laying the groundwork for a massive lawsuit agaisnt Toyota... But that is not my intention... I would just like answers and to get my Prius MPG back.
Due to My Prius being stuck in the WEAK EV State, It has cost me around $3 a day in gas for every USPS mail route I do with my Prius due to the stop & go nature of the 106 Route miles I drive delivering mail. In total, I have lost between $1,500-$2,000 in gas over the 6 years I've owned my Prius because of this.
Millions of other Toyota Prius/Hybrid Owners have also been effected by this WEAK EV State Low MPG Mechanism either temporarily or chronically (and potentially lost $100's to $1,000's on gas), as there have been many other posts by Prius/Toyota Hybrid owners about it.
Here is the link to the Comprehensive post that should clear up any questions.
If you'd like to help me solve this issue, feel free to contact me.
What are MAX and WEAK EV States?
MAX and WEAK EV States are terms I created to describe how Aggressively a Prius (or other Toyota Hybrid) uses EV Mode between 0-40MPHish.
The MAX and WEAK EV States are Binary. You're Prius is either in the MAX EV State or WEAK EV State. It can't be both at the same time or somewhere in between. The EV States are likely software parameters regulated by the Hybrid Control ECU.
The EV States determine the relationship between Accelerator Pedal Angle to EV Mode useage (and the power output EV Mode produces) in relation to a specific Hybrid Battery State Of Charge percentage until the Internal Combustion Engine kicks on to help deliver power.
Total power output between the MAX and WEAK EV States are the same. The only thing the MAX and WEAK EV States do is change what component (Electric Motor or Combustion Engine) delivers the power output to drive the wheels between speeds of 0-40ish MPH. A MAX EV State Prius favors the Electric Motor (MG2) using charge from the Hybrid Battery, increasing MPG. A WEAK EV State Prius favors the Combustion Engine, decreasing MPG. The same power output is always attempting to be delivered in both the MAX and WEAK EV State for a specific Pedal Angle, but the EV States via software change what component is doing the work, either the Electric Motor or Combustion Engine.
Macro Conditions for when the MAX and WEAK EV State behave the same.
There are some Macro Conditions for when the EV States behave the same.
Above 40ish MPH, when flooring it, or below 4 of 8 Charge bars, the Prius delivers power in the exact same way whether in the MAX or WEAK EV State.
Above 40ish MPH, there is a point where the Prius Combustion Engine is required to run at a low speed at all times in order to protect the Planetary Gearset transmission. At this point the difference between how the MAX and WEAK EV State deliver power cease. Combustion Engine and Electric Motor power are delivered in the exact same way in relation to Pedal Angle for both the MAX and WEAK EV State, as long as speed is above 40ish MPH.
The same thing also occurs under "flooring it conditions". The Combustion Engine and Electric Motors work together to deliver Maximum power output in the exact same way at any speed as long as the "Pedal is Floored". Doesn't matter if the Prius is in the MAX or WEAK EV State. Maximum power output is never effected.
At 3 of 8 Battery Charge Display bars, the difference between the MAX and WEAK EV State also largely cease to exist. The Hybrid Battery is getting low on charge at this point so the Combustion Engine takes over a significant amount of the power output in a similar way for both the MAX and WEAK EV State until a higher State of Charge is achieved through Regenerative Braking, or the Combustion Engine generating electricity via MG1. You can't tell the difference between the two EV States at 3 of 8 charge bars as EV Output and Engine Output behave the exact same.
Outside of those three scenarios, MAX and WEAK EV States behave completely differently. There are still complications and nuances that can occur, those will be explained later.
The Difference Between MAX and WEAK EV State Behavior.
A MAX EV State Prius will have aggressive EV Mode usage between 4-8 bars of charge on the Hybrid Battery Display (50%-75%+ State of Charge) at City Speeds (0-40ish MPH). You will be able to accelerate from a stop moderately quickly in EV Mode without the Combustion Engine kicking on. You will also be able to maintain speed in city traffic, accelerating and decelerating in EV Mode with the eb and flow of traffic easily for multiple blocks or even miles depending on State of Charge. Pedal Angle allowed for EV Mode in the MAX EV State caps out at around 80% at 8 of 8 Charge bars and slowly decreases as the Charge Bars decrease. This allows for the EPA estimated City MPG'S or better.
For a WEAK EV State Prius you will never get Aggressive EV Mode useage in any circumstance for city speeds (0-40ish MPH). Even at 8 of 8 Charge bars on the Battery Display (75%+ State of Charge), you have to accelerate very lightly in EV Mode. Light Pedal Pressure will always cause the Combustion Engine to turn-on to deliver power instead of the Electric Motors. You can't accelerate moderately aggressively from a stop without the Combustion Engine kicking on, or Accelerate and Decelerate in EV Mode during the eb and flow of moving traffic with ease. Once your Prius drops below 6 of 8 Charge Bars (57% State of Charge)... you basically get 0 EV Mode acceleration whatsoever. The engine almost instantly kicks on anytime you press the gas pedal. The onlytime at this point you can stay in EV Mode is when accelerating/maintaing speed very lightly on a decline. Pedal Angle allowed for EV Mode Caps out at around 40% for 8 of 8 Charge Bars in the WEAK EV State and slowly decreases as the Charge Bars decrease. This causes the Prius to get 5-10+ worse City MPG's than the EPA estimate.
A Quick example Comparing the EV States:
For a WEAK EV State Gen 2 Prius, when traveling between 15-40mph with a Hybrid Battery State Of Charge of 70%, Accelerator Pedal Angle for EV Mode will cap out at 35% before the Combustion Engine kicks on to supplement power.
If it were a MAX EV State Prius, everything else being constant, Pedal Angle for EV Mode would cap out at around 70% before the Combustion Engine kicks on, a significant increase. EV Mode power scales with the increased Pedal Angle allowed for EV Mode... so you get much more aggressive EV Mode useage and better MPG as a result.
I have not been able to measure the exacts of the MAX EV State yet so I'm unsure of the exact Pedal Angles allowed and the above paragraph is a ballpark estimate... More on this later and why I need help.
How the Hybrid Control ECU (HV ECU) regulates EV Output.
The Hybrid Control ECU (HV ECU) is essentially the Master Brain of the Prius. All other ECU's talk to the HV ECU. The HV ECU then dictates power output between the Combustion Engine and Electric Motors to achieve a certain amount of power in response to various conditions like, Speed, Pedal Angle, how Hot/Cold the Hybrid Battery, State of Charge, or whether the Prius is in the MAX or WEAK EV State.
So we know now that the HV ECU decides how to balance power output between the Combustion Engine and Electric Motors/Hybrid Battery to get a specified amount of power in relation to certain Pedal Angles and other Conditions.
So for an example of a Condition that can change the level of power output between the Combustion Engine and Electric Motors... let's use a cold Hybrid Battery.
Say your Prius sat overnight in the cold and your Hybrid Battery is 25°F (‐4°C) when you leave for your morning commute. First thing you do is Merge your Prius on to the highway using a 100% Accelerator Pedal Angle (Full Throttle).
Because Drawing a large amount of power from a 25°F Hybrid Battery is bad for the NiMh Battery Chemistry and can potentially damage it, the Hybrid Control ECU (HV ECU) will step in to regulate things as it is programmed to do.
Since the Hybrid Battery is cold, and the Hybrid Battery ECU inside the Hybrid Battery is communicating to the HV ECU using temperature sensors placed on the Hybrid Battery that state it's only 25°F... the HV ECU tells the Inverter and Electric Motors to draw less power from the Hybrid Battery, and instead rely more on the Combustion Engine to provide power to accelerate.
Instead of drawing close to 100 amps of current if the Hybrid Battery were at an optimal temperature, the HV ECU tells the Electric Motors to draw close to 40 amps of current due to the cold for the same 100% Pedal Angle. The HV ECU is changing how much power the Hybrid Battery delivers.
Inversely in this Cold Hybrid Battery scenario, the Combustion Engine attempts to compensate for this loss of EV Power by revving higher quicker to provide more power output to achieve the same level of power the 100% Pedal Angle is requesting Because the Electric Motors can't provide it.
When the Hybrid Battery is at an optimal temperature, the Combustion Engine will not Rev as high because more of the Burden of power delivery is being shifted to the Hybrid Battery/Electric Motors for that same 100% Pedal Angle to achieve that specific amount of power that 100% Pedal Angle is requesting.
All of this is regulated by the HV ECU.
In the same vein as the Cold Hybrid Battery example above, The EV States are essentially Software Parameters in the HV ECU that tell the Prius to either favor EV Mode (MAX EV State) or the Combustion Engine (WEAK EV State) to deliver power only between 0-40ish MPH.
Think of the EV States as Master Software Settings that change the Maximum EV Output for speeds between 0-40ish MPH irrespective of any other factor that can influence EV Output like a Cold Hybrid Battery.
What triggers this Master Software Setting to transition from the WEAK EV State to MAX EV State is where the complications arise. It's much more complicated than something like a Cold Hybrid Battery preventing it from happening.
What Triggers the WEAK EV State and Why does it exist?
Triggering the WEAK EV is extremely easy. All you need to do is disconnect your 12V Battery, resetting all the Prius ECU's. As a consequence of the ECU's being reset, the Prius will be reset to the WEAK EV State.
The Prius resets to the WEAK EV State anytime the 12v is disconnected because the ECU's are reset. Everything from Hybrid Battery State Of Charge to the health of all the other related systems is forgotten.
If you were in the MAX EV State before the 12v Disconnect, that is also forgotten and you are reverted to the WEAK EV State.
The Prius being reset to the WEAK EV State is likely a protective mechanism programmed into the Hybrid Control ECU (HV ECU). The Prius then needs to verify certain parameters and conditions before the HV ECU transistions back to the MAX EV State where it uses EV Mode Aggressively at City Speeds like Hybrid Battery State Of Charge and overall Hybrid System health.
However, getting the MAX EV State to trigger again is complicated and why the Prius can become chronically stuck in the WEAK EV State, reducing City MPG's 5-10+ potentially forever.
Why is the MAX EV state so complicated to Trigger?
Unlike the WEAK EV State which is very easy to trigger simply from doing a 12v disconnect, transitioning back to the MAX EV State from the WEAK EV State is not simple at all.
The Hybrid Control ECU is likely looking to verify specific parameters and conditions before it transitions back to the MAX EV State and allows the Prius to start using EV Mode aggressively at City Speeds again.
If these parameters and conditions are never verified, or don't ever reach the right conditions to be verified, the Prius can remain in the WEAK EV State forever... chronically reducing MPG's potentially for years or 10's of thousands of miles.
What Specifically Activates the MAX EV State?
The MAX EV State will trigger permanently after certain conditions are met. However there is no explanation or released information from Toyota that says exactly what conditions/parameters need to be verified to trigger the MAX EV State... so the best I can do is make an educated guess based off of my own experience and other posts.
I believe the Primary condition that needs to be verified is the Health/State of Charge of the Hybrid Battery... and to do this the Prius needs to go through several drive cycles in a row of highway commuting under certain conditions.
For example, ambient temperatures may need to be above 50°F and the Hybrid Battery needs to be between 77°F-104°F (optimal Hybrid Battery Temp) for a certain amount of time during the commute.
Cruise control use may also be needed as the constant rpm's at high speeds allows for the Prius to keep the Hybrid Battery at a specific State of Charge (around 60%) and tightly regulate charge in and out of the Hybrid Battery allowing the Hybrid Control ECU to make specific measurements.
After attaining these specific conditions, the Prius Computers, primarily the HV ECU, will then take certain measurements that verifies the health and State of Charge of the Hybrid Battery. The Prius needs to do this for multiple Drive Cycles in a row.
After the HV ECU gives a pass condition for the the parameters it is attempting to verify... the MAX EV State will engage permanently and EV Mode will be used much more aggressively until the next 12v disconnect... which resets the Prius to the WEAK EV State.
This process is very similar to drive cycles required to verify emissions monitors... something similar happens in the Hybrid System that tells the Prius to use EV Mode Aggressively, it's just not shown as a viewable computer parameter like emissions monitors are.
My Experience Activating the MAX EV State.
To get the full background of my experience with the MAX and WEAK EV State, you can read my Prius Low MPG Story here. But to summarize I initially spent a long stint in the WEAK EV State between 2017-2019... over 2 years and 20,000+ miles using my Prius on USPS Mail Routes with lots of stop and go driving. I believe this prevented the MAX EV State from Activating.
Then in Summer of 2019... I began doing frequent long highway commutes multiple days in a row without doing mail routes in between. Over the course of 3 days of doing these easy on the car highway commutes... my EV Mode power for city speeds suddenly increased significantly.
Midway back from the commute coming off of the highway on the 3rdish day... my Prius began to use EV Mode aggressively... and this persisted permanently from that point forward.
This also maintained on mail routes. I could clear whole back roads and multiple city blocks in EV Mode while delivering mail that I couldn't before... and my MPG increased from 35 to 45+ on mail routes.
The factor that changed everything was the long highway commute multiple drive cycles in a row.
To verify this further... in the following Summer Months I disconnected my 12v Battery twice while doing maintenance... resetting my Prius to the WEAK EV State. After the 12v Disconnect, I lost my aggressive EV Mode useage and increased City MPG'S.
Then after doing frequent long highway commuting multiple drive cycles in a row over the course of 2-4 days... the MAX EV State would activate again and stay this way permanently both times I disconnected the 12v during the summer.
In early 2020 I disconnected my 12v again and reverted to the WEAK EV State. Unfortunately for the past 3 years now and over 50,000+ miles I have been stuck in the WEAK EV State ever since. Again, if you want the full story, read my low mpg story post.
Evidence for the MAX and WEAK EV States existence.

Maha Laxmi Purana's Manabasa Gurubar Purana Read the Manabasa Gurubar Purana or Maha Laxmi Purana by Balarama Das in both the original Odia poetry and the English translation.According to the "Panji" Margasira/Magusura masa of the Odia calendar, Goddess Lakshmi is worshipped at the festival known as "Manabasa Guru Bara" in practically every Odia family. One of the State's largest events is The Festive. Most often, the beauty of the eve is seen in the villages of Odisha, where the day begins with cleaning the home with broomsticks since it is thought that Goddess Lakshmi would never enter a filthy and disorganised house.
Manabasa Gurubara is a festival celebrated by Odia Hindus in the Indian state of Odisha. It is also celebrated by Odias living in Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, South Jharkhand and South West Bengal. In this festival Goddess Mahalaxmi is the presiding deity. It is believed by the people that the goddess herself comes to every household and removes pain and sorrow. It is held on every Thursday in the month of Margasira.It is believed that Goddess Lakshmi loves a clean house so all women make their houses clean then decorate the house with jhoti chita. It is believed that the most beautiful house of the village will be visited by Goddess Lakshmi and can get money and prosperity.

There are a number of best places to visit in summer in India for travellers seeking unforgettable experiences.
There is something for everyone in India, from the enchanting landscapes of Ladakh and Shimla to the serene beaches of Goa and the cultural heritage of Udaipur. To make the most of your trip, consider engaging with the best trip planners in India who can assist in organizing your itinerary, accommodations, and transportation.
From serene hill stations to pristine beaches and historical marvels, here are some of the top summer holiday destinations in India

1. Shimla, Himachal Pradesh:

Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, is a picturesque hill station nestled in the Himalayas. Known for its colonial architecture, lush greenery, and pleasant weather, it is a popular summer retreat. The Mall Road, Jakhu Temple, and Kufri are must-visit attractions in Shimla. The toy train ride from Kalka to Shimla is an experience not to be missed.
2.Manali, Himachal Pradesh:
Situated in the Kullu Valley, Manali is another sought-after summer destination in India. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Manali offers breathtaking views, adventurous activities like paragliding and river rafting, and visits to attractions such as Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, and Hadimba Temple.
3.Munnar, Kerala:
Located in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Munnar is a captivating hill station known for its tea plantations, misty mountains, and pleasant climate. The Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, and Tea Museum are popular tourist spots. Munnar is an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful getaway.
4.Goa:
Goa, famous for its golden beaches and vibrant nightlife, is an excellent choice for a summer vacation with family. The state offers a mix of cultural heritage, water sports activities, and mouthwatering cuisine. Popular beaches include Baga, Calangute, and Anjuna. Families can also visit historical sites like Fort Aguada and the Basilica of Bom Jesus.

1. Darjeeling, West Bengal:

Darjeeling, known as the "Queen of the Hills," is a charming hill station in West Bengal. The region is renowned for its tea gardens, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Darjeeling Himalayan Railway (Toy Train), and the panoramic views from Tiger Hill. Families can enjoy a peaceful walk at the lush Botanical Gardens or visit the Padmaja Naidu Himalayan Zoological Park.

1. Udaipur, Rajasthan:

Udaipur, also known as the "City of Lakes," is a beautiful city in Rajasthan. It boasts magnificent palaces, intricate architecture, and serene lakes. The City Palace, Lake Pichola, and Jag Mandir are major attractions. Families can take a boat ride on Lake Fateh Sagar or explore the local markets for handicrafts and traditional Rajasthani artifacts.
7.Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
For a tropical summer vacation, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands offer pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine life. Havelock Island, Radhanagar Beach, and Ross Island are popular destinations. Families can indulge in water sports, go snorkeling or scuba diving, and explore the fascinating coral reefs.

1. Rishikesh, Uttarakhand:

Rishikesh, situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, is known as the "Yoga Capital of the World" and is a hub for spirituality and adventure. Families can participate in yoga and meditation sessions, visit ancient temples like the Triveni Ghat and Neelkanth Mahadev Temple, and enjoy river rafting on the Ganges.

1. Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir:

Known for its stunning landscapes and adventurous activities, Ladakh is a dream destination for nature enthusiasts.
These are just a few of the top summer holiday destinations in India that offer a range of experiences and attractions for travellers of all ages. Whether you seek serenity in the hills, fun on the beaches, or cultural exploration, India has something for everyone to enjoy during the summer months.

Species: dog
Age: 1 year, 5 months
Sex: male, neutered
Breed: giant crossbreed, possible Great Dane/Mastiff in parentage
Body weight: around 65kgs
History: overall healthy, has had kennel cough and ear infection previously
Clinical signs: enlargement or filling of scrotum skin post neuter
Duration: happens intermittently, for 1 to 2 hours at a time
Location: South Africa
Test results: not applicable?
Good day all, this is not an emergency and more just curiosity on my part. I have tried Googling but cannot find anything apart from immediate post-neuter swelling articles, and do not feel this warrants an actual vet visit.
My boy was neutered in Feb this year at 1 year 2 months old, doing it later was recommended by our vet in order to promote better joint growth/prevent future joint issues as he's a giant breed.
The neuter itself went smoothly, he had the typical swelling for a few days, kept his activity limited and eventually all swelling subsided. As he was done late he has been left with a flap of skin, it might still be too soon to tell but the flap doesn't seem to be shrinking.
My question is this: since the original surgery swelling has gone down I have noticed that very occasionally his flap of skin looks full, like he's got miniature testicles compared to the originals. There is no redness or heat, and when I feel the skin it feels like there might be fluid inside? When this "swelling" happens it only lasts an hour or two at worst and then subsides again and returns to being an empty flap of skin. He does not seem to be in any pain when it fills like this either, and as mentioned there's no heat or redness so I'm not worried about infection. I'm mostly just curious about what's happening with my dogs body? Is it filling with fluid and if so what fluid and why? Could he possibly be knocking or bumping it on something (although I don't see how) and then it swells/fills a little bit then is re-absorbed? I've had male dogs before and don't recall ever noticing this in any of them so really just interested in the processes going on here. Also am I right not to be overly concerned about this or does it actually warrant a check up?
Thanks in advance, and appreciate you all caring so deeply for our pets!
(Edited for formatting)