https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery.atomAREA51GALLERY - planetpopculture.blog2021-12-13T05:49:56-06:00AREA51GALLERYhttps://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/gia-giavanni-she-works-hard-for-the-money2021-12-13T05:49:56-06:002021-12-20T02:25:21-06:00Gia Giavanni She Works Hard For The MoneyRocket Hulsey"It takes a lot of money to look this cheap", and I wanna be as cheap as possible." Gia Giavanni
When I think of Gia Giavanni, the legendary Donna Summer 1983 anthem "She Works Hard For The Money" plays in my head. While we were all on major lockdown and my researching New Orleans for my eventual relocation to The French Quarter. I had the welcomed surprise of coming across Gia's Facebook live Wednesday evening show. Complimented with a before show of Gia herself apply her look for that particular evenings performance. I cannot express how I looked forward afterward for her next Wednesday evening show complete with a light show and at times special guests! Additionally what warmed my heart was the fact that so many younger LGBTQ+ many living in rural areas and feeling alone could tune in as well, no matter where they were. The shows were a lifeline of comfort I'm confident.
Additionally when I think of Gia Giavanni [Wayne] I marvel at her creativity (winner Most Creative 2020) well earned. Her multiple titles she holds, and she ain't slowing down anytime soon it seems. And verve for her craft that keeps her on a stage somewhere around the New Orleans area and vicinity is inspiring. I believe one of the biggest forces of Gia Giavanni is her supportive husband Lance, that's additionally heartwarming to me. Gia Giavanni is the party starter, the hostess with the mostest, brunch babe, the multi pageant winner and so much more. Discover Gia Giavanni next time you're in or around the New Orleans area. I know I will be, forever.
She works hard for the money So hard for it, honey She works hard for the money So you better treat her right
All Comments Welcomed -
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https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/winter-wonderland-x-a-new-orleans-tradition2021-12-03T03:56:39-06:002022-01-26T02:46:59-06:00WINTER WONDERLAND X ⚜️ A NEW ORLEANS TRADITIONRocket Hulsey
If you had the pleasure of attending WINTER WONDERLAND X - this year being the 10th anniversary then there was even more to be excited about.
Winter Wonderland is an annual fundraiser event that Misti Gaither & her wife Catherine organize and host in anticipation to making a donation to one of New Orleans' local non-profits.
2021's chosen recipient was PFLAG of NEW ORLEANS, in which $6000.00 was donated following this spectacular event. In addition there was a toy drive for children of St. Anna's Episcopal Church.
If that wasn't enough and in New Orleans fashion there is a Winter Queen & King announced. The beautiful Felicia Phillips & handsome Cody Devon McLain were announced as Winter Wonderlands X 2021 Queen & King, as presented in their lovely photograph attached to this blog post.
I am proud to call Misti & Catherine family for they are examples of just what makes New Orleans the magical destination it is. And why so many fall in love with The Big Easy.
Catherine & Misti Gaither ⚜️
Misti & Catherine's tireless contribution to the LGBTQ+ community and beyond is in addition exampled in the weekly Facebook live Lez Talk About Podcast. Hosted by Misti & Jeffrey Palmquist, with occasional guest hosts. (Jeff's pretty darn special too, BTW!)
I'm particularly looking forward to experiencing first hand the community magic of New Orleans when AREA51GALLERY relocates to The French Quarter winter 2022.
WINTER WONDERLAND X ⚜️ A NEW ORLEANS TRADTION
All Comments Welcomed -
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https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/the-krewe-de-la-rue-royale-revelers-of-new-orleans-20222021-11-05T06:50:56-05:002022-11-28T09:30:00-06:00The Krewe de La Rue Royale Revelers Of New Orleans 2022Rocket Hulsey
"I’ve always loved Carnival. As a child, I thought Mardi Gras was the most magical day of the year. I still do." - Frank Perez
Each year since 2013, Carnival season kicks off with a fabulous 12th Night Party held annually on January 6 @ The Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture. Hosted by Lord of Misrule Frank Perez himself.
After a Royal Procession of previous Grand Revelers, the new Grand Reveler is presented. The coronation of the Grand Reveler is followed by the Meeting of the Courts of the Rue Royale Revelers and the Krewe of Queenateenas.
2015 Grand Reveler I – Jeffrey Palmquist
2016 Grand Reveler II – Will Antill, the Financial District Reveler
2017 Grand Reveler III – Rip Naquin, the Award-Winning Reveler
2018 Grand Reveler IV – Felicia Philips, the Cheese Reveler
2019 Grand Reveler V – Frank Perez (not the Lord of Misrule), the Faux Reveler
2020 Grand Reveler VI –Duaine Daniels, the Peg-Legged Reveler - Two year reign due to the pandemic.
2022 Grand Reveler VII – Misti Gaither, Godfather of the Lesbian Mafia Reveler
I was granted the honor to design & handcraft The Krewe De La Rue Royale Revelers 2022 12th Night Party Button Pin. Which acts as the guests ticket to the annual event itself. And I, Rocket Hulsey will be designing the annual events pin ticket going forth, Thank You, Frank!
UPDATED 1.18.22 The following is my experience at my first 12th Night Party held on January 6th. 2022. The venue itself is a fantastic backdrop for the annual event. On display there is an array of historical costumes dating back to 1962. Frank Perez assembled a lovely event with buffet style food, an open bar and yes go-go boys. I myself arrived and being from the South myself have no problems mingling and meeting new friends one being Santa T. Clause, a local New Orleans personality and now a personal friend of mine as well. Truly no-one would feel uncomfortable at this event with the mélange of eclectic personalities that is the main ingredient to New Orleans' allure and mystic.
The Royal Procession of previous Grand Revelers procession began at approximately 7:30PM, with anticipation of who will be the newly appointed Grand Reveler. And to everyone's delight it was revealed to be none other thanMisti Gaither, Host of Lez Talk About It the successful LGBTQ+ podcast. Misti is a personal dear friend & local New Orleans paranormal investigator and contributes in so many ways in the Non Profit sector of New Orleans along with her lovely wife, Catherine. Holding back tears myself we honored her with a party like no other I've been to in years.
My takeaway for the evening is just this: I experienced first hand of why New Orleanshas the reputation it does. The locals are welcoming, genuine and kind. From the early morning busboys in the doorways of Bourbon Street saying hello. To the baristas at Café Du Monde.
New Orleans is where I call home myself when AREA51GALLERY my classic pop culture laboratory permanently relocates to New Orleans, fall 2022.
I encourage you if you are in New Orleans on January 6th any year to attend Frank Perez's annual 12th Night Party. It's A Must!!
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https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/noladeej-new-orleans-movie-and-tv-tour2021-06-12T01:37:47-05:002021-12-20T02:29:23-06:00NOLADEEJ New Orleans Movie and TV ToursRocket Hulsey
NOLADEEJ goes to different places in and around New Orleans and sometimes to other cities & states. Abandoned Places, Roadside Attractions, Historical Spots, Cemeteries, Festivals & Events - he checks it out and graciously shares what he finds on Youtube and his Facebook & Instagram page. He's a connoisseur of beignets as well. Dropping a video tasting his favorite around the New Orleans area.I'm always delighted when he drops a new video on YouTube. And I consider him top notch at sharing his discoveries.
AREA51GALLERY was created with keeping our rich history in classic pop culture alive. And one of those ways is through the movies we grew up with and watch over and over. New Orleans Movie & TV Tours provides their guests with a fun, educational and entertaining experience by bringing movies to life.
NOLADEEJ takes us on a point of view tour of just some of the more than 200 filming locations in and around New Orleans. I encourage you to book your tour with New Orleans Movie & TV Tours. Until then enjoy NOLADEEJ and his tour in addition to his YouTube catalog of videos.
Leave Me A Comment Tell Me Your Favorite Movie Made In New Orleans
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https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/rockets-top-5-gay-bars-in-new-orleans-la2021-05-31T05:26:51-05:002023-01-23T08:26:53-06:00Rocket's Top 5 Gay Bars In New Orleans LARocket Hulsey
My personal history in the New Orleans gay scene goes back to 1990. Madonna's Vogue video was "giving us good life" on the drop down screen in Bourbon Pub Parade. I think the drama of the screen coming down was part of the fantasy. Shuttling back and forth to Café Lafitte's to perch up on the ledge to cut up and carry on with friends and the endless influx of men and their crew visiting the city. Here I have compiled my favorite and some top rated gay bars in New Orleans.
1. THE CAFE LAFITTE IN EXILE 901 Bourbon St
As noted above I have history and fondness for "Lafitte's" as I call the bar. Lafitte's is also one of the oldest gay bars in the United States with history dating back to prohibition. When you stop by make sure Jeffrey makes your drink. He himself has been there for 20+ years and will surely make you feel at home. One side note Jeffery also co-hosts a local New Orleans LGBTQ live Facebook podcast named Lez Talk About It with host Misti Gaither. I highly recommend tuning in every Wednesday on Facebook. THE CAFE LAFITTE IN EXILE
2. THE PAGE NOLA 542 N Rampart St
The friendly atmosphere in The Page NOLA will keep you entertained. The owners Willie & Bobbie make it a place for everyone. Great location and easy to stop by during your bar crawl. Ask for their specialty drink The Pink P___Y, it's legendary yawl. The Page NOLA reminds us there are always surprises in the Vieux Carre.
3. BOURBON PUB PARADE801 Bourbon St
I spent most of my partying time at The Bourbon Pub. Straight shot down Bourbon street to one of the frozen daiquiri shops to get the Blue Hawaiian. And return back sporting a blue tongue and mouth. My memories of the Sunday tea dances are epic and The Bourbon Pub never disappointed for a good time. Looking forward to more great times when AREA51GALLERY permanently relocates to New Orleans permanently in 2022. BOURBON PUB PARADE
4. OZ NEW ORLEANS 800 Bourbon St
Worth checking out simply for The Ladies Of Oz drag shows. But OZ is the place to get your dance on with their killer music, it'll be daylight before you know it. Located within walking distance to other gay bars gather up your new friends and break and then crawl back for more. OZ NEW ORLEANS
5. THE GOLDEN LANTERN 1239 Royal St
Opened in 1964, The Golden Lantern Bar is the official original home of Southern Decadence. The Golden Lantern hosts weekly drag performances and is a must for any visitor. I tripped down to the club especially to see the shows. New Orleans as some of the most talented and dedicated Queens I've experienced. Make The Golden Lantern a must on your visit to world famous New Orleans and The French Quarter. THE GOLDEN LANTERN
Leave A Comment Tell Me Your Favorite Experiences In New Orleans
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https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/rockets-top-5-gayest-the-golden-girls-moments2021-05-02T04:34:55-05:002021-06-12T01:37:12-05:00Rocket's Top 5 Gayest The Golden Girls MomentsRocket Hulsey
The Golden Girls originally aired from September 14, 1985, to May 9, 1992. We were riveted to the tube immediately recognizing the cultural impact even then the ladies would have on popular culture. A household of sassy middle-aged women, having relationships, wearing fashionable clothing (at the time, lol) and throwing sassy zingers left and right. Although many love them, the gay community embraced them and has for over 30+ years now. To this day I actually sleep with The Golden Girls on for they are comfort, they are nostalgia, they are legends. They are the best sellers in my gallery and I thank them for being my friend.
Rocket's Top 5 Gayest The Golden Girls Moments -
1. Dorothy has a sassy cater waiter let her know how it is regrading the down fall of his cheese puffs. - Sophia's Wedding: Part 1 Season 4, Episode 6
2. I took an 84 year old woman and made her look like a 64 year old drag queen... then I said to myself, "Blanche, too much rouge" - Girls Just Want To Have Fun ... Then They Die Season 6, Episode 10
3. Dorothy: Hey you punk... you want to fight with somebody, you fight with me but I warn you I did time in Attica. Hooker: Attica's a men's prison! Dorothy: I Know! I was there a year before they found out. - Ladies Of The Evening Season 2 Episode 2
4. Sophia: Jean thinks she's in love with Rose! Blanche: Rose! Jean has the hots for Rose? I DON'T BELIEVE IT! I DON"T BELIEVE IT! Dorothy: I was pretty surprised myself. Blanche: Well, I Bet! To think Jean would prefer Rose over me, that's ridiculous! - Isn't It Romantic Season 2 Episode 5
5. Sophia: This question is directed to Dorothy's lover. Do people treat you differently because you're a lesbian? Blanche: Well, most people don't know. Sophia: Really? I would've guessed right off. Sophia: Next question to Dorothy. What kind of pain and embarrassment has this lifestyle caused your mother? Dorothy: I really don't know, but I'll ask her tomorrow when I visit her at the home. Sophia: No more questions. - Season 7 Episode 14
Leave A Golden Comment
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https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/rockets-top-5-healthy-essentials-for-men-over-502021-04-03T04:25:40-05:002021-04-03T11:09:13-05:00Rocket's Top 5 Healthy Essentials For Men Over 50Rocket Hulsey
Growing older is unavoidable and a blessing in its own right. How we get older however is up to each of us. I have assembled my tried and true healthy essentials I use often to better my health and wellness for men of all ages. Eat To Live - Not Live To Eat
1. C2O Pure Coconut Water 33.8oz 3.99 This suggestion is quite new for 2021 for me. Not all coconut waters are created equal. C2O Pure Coconut Water fuses a unique, full-flavor profile with all of the naturally occurring electrolytes. It's a great alternative to just water and I recommend the paper carton over the caned packaging.
2.Navitas Organics Raw Cacao Nibs 8oz 8.00 Cacao nibs are small pieces of crushed cacao beans that have a bitter, chocolatey flavor. Cacao nibs are naturally low in sugar. They're also a good source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats. Nutrients that help promote feelings of fullness, they're rich in many minerals, including iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, manganese, and copper.
3. Navitas Organics, Organic Turmeric Powder 8oz 10.00 Curcumin Is a powerful Anti-Inflammatory, unfortunately the body has trouble absorbing on its own so consuming with black pepper is essential for best absorption. One of turmeric’s main claims to fame is that it’s commonly used to fight inflammation, and the bulk of turmeric’s inflammation-fighting powers can be credited to curcumin. In fact, in the right dose, curcumin may be a more effective anti-inflammatory treatment than common over the counter inflammation-fighting medications. This I use every day.
4. Manitoba Harvest Organic Hemp Seed Oil 8.4oz 10.50 Hemp is high in plant-based dietary fiber which promotes digestive health. It is also known for anti-inflammatory properties, and is rich in healthy unsaturated fats. The oil can be used in the place of other oils. I use it as an alternative to olive oil. Great for skin and there's plenty of omega 3 and omega 6 rich fatty acids, as well as vitamin E, which contributes towards overall skin health and elasticity. The list is long for the possible health benefits of hemp oil.
5. Dr. Bronner's Lavender Hand Sanitizer 2oz 5.00 In this time of heightened awareness for germs. I discovered this alternative to the mass produced hand sanitizers. Many of the mass released hand sanitizers just stink in my opinion and with Dr. Bronner's they are a brand I use many products from and can trust. Plus the lavender fragrance is always a welcomed layer of feeling of calm. I highly recommend it, makes a great affordable small gift as well.
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https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/cafe-du-monde2021-04-03T01:36:25-05:002021-05-17T02:13:17-05:00Café Du Monde The New Orleans ReligionRocket Hulsey
If living or visiting New Orleans is the ethereal experience we believe it is. Café Du Monde is sanctuary and their coffee is our communion. The original coffee stand opened in 1862 in the French Market in New Orleans, Louisiana. Café Du Monde includes only dark-roasted coffee with chicory (served black or au lait), beignets, white and chocolate milk, hot chocolate, and fresh-squeezed orange juice. I lived originally in the city in the mid 90's (relocating back in spring 2022, to open my area51gallery) and there is simply no other place to immerse oneself for people watching than their covered patio. Café Du Monde's coffee, the horse drawn carriages hooves on cobblestones going by and the fragrance of fresh beignets with powdered sugar is the VooDoo they do to you. There's a comfort for family owned business with their history, I encourage you to visit and be part of the congregation.
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https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/rockets-top-10-grooming-essentials-for-men-over-502021-03-22T03:28:17-05:002021-05-02T07:00:54-05:00Rocket's Top 10 Grooming Essentials For Men Over 50Rocket Hulsey
Being a connoisseur of men's grooming since my teens I have narrowed down my favorites here in 2021 for anyone to explore & perhaps one or more of them will become one of your favorites as well. I have lived enough to only have tinted Clearasil and perhaps Farrah Fawcett shampoo as my main grooming supplies.The release of Alpha Hydroxy Acids in the late 80's was a game changer for advanced skin care for men of any age. Remember these were times when men using grooming (beauty) products were still considered taboo, and in some demographics still there is this bias. BTW they have really dry & wrinkly skin so you can tell who they are, lol. I have compiled my top ten grooming products [in no order] that I hope you will consider trying. Enjoy aging well, but be damn cute doing it if you choose to. Be Timeless -
1. Aveda Never A Dull Moment Skin Brightening Polisher 4.40oz 28.50 - using since 1995
2. Aveda Blue Malva Color Shampoo 8.5oz 26.00 - using since 1982
3. Kiehls Eye Fuel .05oz 24.00 - using since 2010
4. Paula's Choice Hydrating Treatment Mask 4oz 24.00 - using since 2012
5. Burt's Bees Blemish Stick Herbal .26oz 8.50 - using since 1999
6. Alba Botanica Mango Vanilla Very Emollient Cream Shave 8oz 7.00 - using since 2009
7. EARTH SCIENCE Almond-Aloe Moisturizer with SPF 15+ 5oz 15.00 - using since 2009
8. Kiehls Super Fluid Daily UV Defense SPF 50+ 1.7oz 40.00 - using since 2014
9. Hermes Terre d'hermes Parfum 2.5oz 140.00 - using since 2008
10. Tretinoin [Retin A Prescription] 1oz 150.00 - using since 2015
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https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/walking-tour-through-new-orleans-french-quarter-20212021-03-21T04:48:54-05:002021-05-17T02:14:55-05:00Walking Tour through New Orleans' French Quarter 2021Rocket HulseyWalking tour through New Orleans' French Quarter 2021 hosted and narrated by Andrew. If you haven't experienced my blog post Free Tours By Foot Mardi Gras 2021 I encourage you too. One thing I admire about Andrew is that he lets the viewers in on information and tidbits that we may not know. Andrew walks us through the French Quarter in March of 2021 and points out the noticeable difference in life at this time regarding visitors and street atmosphere that would be happening at this time of year. Mentioning landmarks, businesses and notable french quarter cultural information. If you are planning a trip to New Orleans his videos are definitely a go to resource for information. Watch Andrews additional New Orleans walking tour videos on Youtube. Thanks! Ya'll!
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https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/lez-talk-about-it-co-hosted-by-misti-gaither-jeffrey-palmquist2021-02-28T02:23:42-06:002021-06-11T05:07:44-05:00Lez Talk About It Co Hosted By Misti Gaither & Jeffrey PalmquistRocket Hulsey
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A weekly talk show on Facebook LIVE @ 7pm every Wednesday broadcasting from New Orleans, LA and the surrounding area. Co-Hosted by Misti Gaither & Jeffrey Palmquist.Topics relating to the LGBTQ+ community and the impact the members of the community have on supporting each other. Of course witty repertoire is thrown in because - well they're witty!]]>
https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/rockets-top-10-mens-fragrances-1982-the-present2021-02-21T04:40:49-06:002021-03-22T02:57:56-05:00Rocket's Top 10 Men's Fragrances 1982 - The PresentRocket Hulsey
I'm still Obsessed with fragrance. But growing up in a smaller rural East Texas town I felt more Kouros than Brut or Stetson. With Jovan Musk Oil available at Walgreens that was my first experience with fragrance. Discovering Pierre Cardin for men when I was hired at Chess King, my first retail position, I wore it with pride. I've matured and my tastes and education in men's fragrances has as well. Below are my Top 10 Men's Fragrances 1982 - The Present. Drop a comment on your favorites, I'd love to hear them.
1. Hermes Terre d'Hermes - present winter
2. Kouros Yves Saint Laurent - late 80's
3. Bvlgari Pour Homme - present summer
4. Acqua Di Parma Bergamotto DI Calabria - mid 2000's
5. Santos Cartier - late 80's
6. Obsession Calvin Klein - late 80's
7. CK one Calvin Klein - mid 90's
8. Lauder For Men - Estee Lauder - mid 90's
9. Egoiste Chanel - early 90's
10. L'Eau d'Issey Pour Homme Issey Miyake - early 90's
I will conjecture many of you will relate to backstory regarding men's fragrances. I'd love to hear your personal journey, just drop a comment below. Rocket Hulsey
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https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/rockets-top-10-classic-tv-themes-songs2021-02-15T05:43:44-06:002021-06-19T02:45:20-05:00Rocket's Top 10 Classic TV Themes SongsRocket Hulsey
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https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/rockets-mtv-top-10-videos-from-1983-19902021-02-08T03:54:54-06:002021-02-08T04:20:19-06:00Rocket's MTV Top 10 Videos From 1983-1990Rocket Hulsey
Tears For Fears Everybody Wants To Rule The World 1985
Yazoo Situation 1982
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https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/the-fingerdoo-review-rupauls-drag-race-uk-s2-e42021-02-07T04:12:19-06:002021-02-07T04:38:42-06:00The Fingerdoo Review Rupaul's Drag Race UK S2 E4Rocket HulseyGag. Gagging. Gagged. What is going on across the pond? Are they trying to outdo season 1? What about the rest of the season? Will Miss Rona ruin everything? Again? Grab your notes and a cocktail, Dolls. It's that time again!
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https://area51.gallery/blogs/planetpopculture-blog-for-area51gallery/free-tours-by-foot-mardi-gras-20212021-02-06T03:57:29-06:002021-05-17T02:16:14-05:00Free Tours By Foot Mardi Gras 2021Rocket HulseyIn this video, New Orleans tour guide, Andrew, takes you on a tour throughout much of the city to explain to you some of the traditions of New Orleans Mardis Gras celebrated here, both in the past and particularly for 2021. I've been watching Andrew for awhile now and I have to say that I'm so impressed with his knowledge of New Orleans. I highly recommend freetoursbyfoot.com but I have an affection for Andrew and his videos specifically due to my relocating back to The Big Easy to open my area5gallery in the French Quarter in 2022. Check Andrew's additional videos out and tip him for his efforts if you are so moved.