#april issue—allure 2024 | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

cleolinda · 7 months ago

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Weekend links, April 28, 2024

My posts

I spent the first half of the week struggling through (well-medicated) mania and the second half currently with a sinus infection! I’m not enjoying it! Not either one!

Reblogs of interest

Pro-Gaza protests at universities in the U.S.: a solidarity Passover seder and an accidental Pulitzer photo

Canada Agrees 200 Islands Belong to the Indigenous Haida Nation

The Hot Vintage Lady Polls continue to go for the throat. I felt so bad about Dorothy Dandridge that I started posting and reblogging propaganda for her, but Ava Gardner, my beloved, went through anyway. Backing her felt like a wish on a monkey’s paw ("Not like this!!"). (See all poll results here.) I tremble to think what round 5 will look like. Like, there’s a point when your girl is gonna come up against a Hepburn, you know?

Notably gone this week: Judy Garland, Julie Andrews, Lupe Vélez, Irene Papas (who took out Vivien Leigh in the previous round), Gene Tierney, Barbara Stanwyck, Lena Horne, Jean Seberg, Anita Ekberg, Angela Lansbury, and Cyd Charisse. Like I keep saying, everybody loses. Everybody but one. Round 5 will start May 1st.

Hozier Watch 2024: His first U.S. #1, which he’s now playing at shows! The first U.S. #1 for an Irish artist in 34 years! What?? you cry. Did “Take Me to Church” not do that ten years ago? Well, I went and looked it up: No. That was the “Blank Space” era. Say no more.

Speaking of Taylor Swift—Paste Magazine went IN on the new album and got threats as a result. Meanwhile, Taylor’s fans are harassing the ex-boyfriend who did nothing wrong (as opposed to the racist one) because her PR is egging them on. I’ll admit: even though I’m not a fan, I found the Paste review to be overlong and not focused enough on the actual songs, proportionally. But that post about the PR saga is everything I miss about Fandom Wank.

(“My rival dresses to display her legs, and her shoes are of an alluring fashion”)

Meanwhile, the Watcher guys issued the best apology possible, although it was still excruciating to watch. (Background.) They will remain on YouTube while introducing the streaming service. As a Patreon member, I haven’t asked for my free subscription code yet, but I’m going to. Some fans forgave them pretty easily; others have walked away. I’m curious to see if this affects the mood of anything new they film, since a segment of the fandom got really, really ugly about it. Mostly it just felt sad all around.

Meanwhile, in Alabama: nobody wants to measure the feral hog.

Turns out Death Note had a good reason to concoct “American” names like “Bobson Dugnutt.” Also, I somehow had two posts tagged “death note” this week and I don’t even go here.

The worst brownies ever created and what Tumblr has to say about them

“You roll up to the Wizard Battle and your opponent takes out his spellbook but it’s just one of these”

I know that Loki is not Odin’s son in actual Norse mythology, but the bredlik is amazing.

TIL that Florence and Ravenna are still feuding over Dante’s remains

Maybe haunted dolls cost extra

Chorses

Video

Branch manager

Senior branch manager

“Free serotonin from Honey the Italian greyhound”

Sola learned to show love from her humans

I have seen many of jauncydev’s videos about dog personalities, but I have never seen him commit quite this hard before

I like tie-dye videos anyway, but this one is sick as hell

The sacred videos: you are not prepared for this police sketch, and neither is this news anchor

The sacred texts

Kick his ass, baby. I got yo flower.

Gold Star, You Tried: A compilation

A personal favorite: “mayhaps I TWIMST aroumd”

The origin of “By Talos this can’t be happening”

Personal tags of the week

Seasonally: cherry blossom. Also, art: an old standby, but it was really good, and also, I’m sick.

#weekend links #odds and ends #linkspam

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battleangel · 2 months ago

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2 NFL Player Deaths Under 35 — NEXT!

Let's get to the first death that occurred in May 2024.

The next and final death I am going to discuss happened one month prior in April 2024.

First of all, did you catch that?

Both players' deaths were under six months ago. This year.

Did you hear about either one?

And, even if you did during the off season, they have both been swept under the collective rug with 300+ other NFL CTE corpses now that the regular season is underway.

The first death is Ray Lewis Jr.'s, Hall of Fame Ravens Linebacker's, son Ray Lewis III, at 28.

He technically wasn't an NFL player but he did play professionally at the indoor arena level as well as playing at Miami University.

Ray Lewis’ (Hall of Fame Ravens Linebacker) son, Ray Lewis III,died at 28 this May of an accidental drug overdose.

He had Stage II CTE.

He started tackle football at age 5.

He played college football at his father's, Ray Lewis', alma mater, for the Miami University Hurricanes then he pursued a career in professional indoor arena football.

Google:

"Lewis’ family stated in the years leading up to his death, Lewis experienced issues with memory, was extremely forgetful & exhibited erratic, sporadic behavior & impulsivity.

His mother suspected he was battling CTE."

His autopsy report revealed an accidental cause of death due to a mixture of fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, alcohol & anti-anxiety pills.

His father remains just as indoctrinated into the cult of football after his sons CTE induced accidental drug overdose at 28:

“We are proud to honor Ray Rays legacy by teaching OUR YOUTH about football SAFETY while sharing & supporting research on CTE.”

The emphasis with the capitalization added by me to convey my utter and complete total disgust — safety???????????????????????????

The mother had a totally different & sane take:

“Little did I know when I put my son in tackle football at age 5, I ran the risk of burying him 22 years later. I would have done things different now knowing the risks. We need to wait until our babies are at least 14 to allow them to play tackle football. It breaks my heart that you have to die to get a diagnosis for this disease.”

This only happened four months ago in May and I didnt hear one word about it before today and I only came across it today because I regularly research the effects of tackle football, the consequences of repetitive subconcussive head impacts & concussions & the NFL's, NCAA's & Pop Warner's continued deception & subterfuge dating back 100 years to the literal 1930's that repetitive SUBconcussive head impacts, NOT concussions, are the cause of degenerative neurological conditions & disorders like CTE, Parkinson's disease, ALS, Alzheimers, dementia & Lewey Body Disease.

So, I am always researching and coming across something which is the only reason I saw anything today regarding Ray Lewis' son dying of an accidental drug overdose and being posthumously diagnosed with Stage II CTE at the age of 28.

The delirium of a new NFL season is already upon us and, as we approach Week 3, there is already the requisite breathless reporting, endless storylines, drama & spectacle that accompanies each and every single season of football.

Even Hall of Fame linebacker for the Ravens, Ray Lewis', son dying of an accidental drug overdose & being diagnosed with Stage II CTE during the off season this May barely made a blip on our collective NFL obsessed radar and it clearly wasn't even an afterthought by the time the NFL season got underway a mere four months later earlier this month in September.

Nothing stops the NFL machine — not even the CTE induced accidental overdose death of one of the leagues most famous & recently voted greatest linebacker of all time's 28 year old son.

The show always goes on.

Sickeningly, depravedly, mind numbingly, thoughtlessly, inhumanely, unfairly & unjustly.

But the show does goes on.

It always does in the NFL.

Nothing seemingly ever stops the non-stop allure and spectacle of the game.

Google:

"Ray Lewis III told The Baltimore Sun that he hoped to follow in his fathers footsteps:

“One day, I do dream of making it to the NFL. But I also have a dream of making a difference in peoples lives outside the football field.”

He died before the age of 30!

He died alone per the police report surrounded by anti-anxiety pills & a used drug needle!

Is the sport of football worth that much?

What makes people question football?

Does anything make us collectively stop and question ourselves and our rabid obsession & compulsive desire to endlessly consume a sport that is endlessly consuming its own players?

Or is it just, on to Chiefs Falcons Sunday night?

Well, I have a question amongst all the early NFL season hoopla, hyperbole & mass hysteria.

Football IS mass hysteria.

Why does anyone have to DIE to learn a LIFE lesson???

Ray Lewis III started tackle at age 5.

23 years of tackle football started at the absolute youngest & insanest age allowed by Pop Warner.

Dead at 28 from the sport of football which absolutely should have been included as an underlying cause of death on his death certificate.

It wasnt but it absolutely should have been.

In every case where the individual dies and is diagnosed with CTE — whether it was a drug overdose, accident, suicide, heart attack, etc. — CTE absolutely should be listed, not as the immediate cause, but definitely as an underlying cause of death.

And right next to CTE it should say — "Caused by X years of participation in tackle football".

But it won't, will it?

Because of the NFL, its farm system the NCAA & its feeder system, Pop Warner.

The $1 billion concussion settlement doesnt even cover CTE!

Players with CTE & their families only get payments under the settlement if they also had dementia symptoms along with their CTE diagnosis.

The NFL is cruel & sociopathic.

So, trust that the record breaking $13 billion that the NFL generated in revenue last season protects them from ever having to actually give a damn.

And certainly, prevents death certificates from being filled out honestly.

And prevents the American Academy of Pediatrics from recommending that 5 year old children — like Ray Lewis III — don't endure 336 head impacts a season on average in youth tackle football.

How is permanent brain damage safe for children?

All the hallmarks of CTE, including the symptoms & dangerous attempts to self-medicate leading to an untimely death, are present in the last years of Ray Lewis III's life as well as in his tragic death at 28.

The highly vaunted ironically titled “life lessons” imparted from “the game of football” often leaves its male participants fucking DEAD — just a small little detail always overlooked by footballs’ most rabid acolytes, fanatics & especially current & former participants, as well as the most hyped ambassadors of the game, who like Ray Lewis III's father & newest Fox analyst Tom Brady, are often the loudest & most unapologetic proponents, defenders & proselytizers of "the game".

You can learn the SAME exact lessons without fucking dying young & early for no fucking reason!

Basketball. Baseball. Track. Volunteering. Marathons. Debate teams. Chess. Reading clubs. Hiking. Camping. Rock climbing. Lifting weights. Travel. Solitude. Meditation. Vow of silence. Fasting. Minimalism. Frugality. Chastity. Abstinence. Restrictive food consumption. Analog living without digital or electronic devices. Esotericism. Spiritual enlightenment. Total environmental quietude - no music, podcasts, youtube, streaming, TV, movies, videogames, no sound noise or aural distractions. Being a magician, illusionist or mentalist. Aerialism. Fire breathing. Acrobatics. Dance. Acting. Singing. Writing. Poetry. Painting. Drawing. Illustrations. Screenplays. Improv. Comedy. Breakdancing. Street performance. Abstract art. Conceptual & performance art. Philosophy.

This is a very partial & incomplete list but certainly gets my point across.

I am purposely leaving off soccer until they get rid of heading the ball and ice hockey until they remove checking against the boards as that has led to players in both sports being posthumously diagnosed with CTE. Wrestling, with its takedowns, has also resulted in athletes being posthumously diagnosed with CTE. Mixed martial arts & boxing have all the same issues as football in terms of CTE so I have not included either sport in my above list. Lacrosse also causes many repetitive subconcussive head impacts so it is not included in the above list.

There are SO many different endeavors one can pursue in life that can discipline the mind, challenge the self, sharpen the will & resolve, instill perseverance & steadfastness.

I reject the disgusting militaristic & hegemonic notion that boys & men can only learn these lessons by pulverizing their bodies, battering their brains & destroying their minds through the “game” of football which, if you make it to the top echelon of the sport at the NFL level, leaves 1/3 of its participants per the NFL’s own actuaries with a neurological condition or disorder like CTE, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's disease, ALS, dementia & Lewy Body Dementia.

You don't have to DIE to learn a LIFE LESSON!

Football is a true cult.

So, that was the first off season football death with a player under 35 that occurred this off season in May 2024.

Let's discuss the second one that occurred a month prior, in April 2024.

Literally, only five months ago.

And it's already been disappeared by the viscera and spectacle of the NFL which washes away its' own dead participants.

Will Tua & Damar be added to the hundreds of the ever growing list of dead NFL players killed by the sport of football?

Tune into NFL Game Day Morning this Sunday to hear Eisen, Mooch, Irv & Warner breathlessly analyze, debate, breakdown & discuss!

Vontae Davis was a former Pro Bowl linebacker for the Colts, Bills & Dolphins.

Vontae's brother, Vernon, is also a former Pro Bowler as well as a Super Bowl winner.

Vontae was found dead alone inside of his mansion in April 2024 slumped over unconscious inside of his gym at 35.

While there was never a cause of death released to the public, per The Daily Mail, Vontae's ex-wife Meg Harpe, claimed that it was "100% CTE" and that there was definitely more to the story via a text message she sent to the publication.

Vontae's brother, Vernon, confirmed to the media that Vontae never did drugs and was the owner of a holistic wellness spa and had a team of chiropractors and massage & stretch therapists constantly at his mansion.

While Vernon was dismissive of CTE claims telling reporters that there was no way to diagnose that in a living person, Vontae himself admitted in an interview with CNN that he was concerned he had CTE and cited it as one of the reasons for his abrupt retirement from the NFL during halftime of a game.

In the CNN interview, Vontae claimed that he experienced an “out of body, spiritual moment” on the sidelines that led to a profound realization that football no longer aligned with his well being which caused him to abruptly retire from the league in the locker room at halftime.

While no cause of death was released to the public, the police did state there were no signs of a break in or foul play.

However, if we go back about a year prior to Dontae's death, there is a very familiar at this point decline and downward spiral in his personal life which makes me believe he did have CTE.

In January 2023, Dontae Davis was arrested in a DUI incident where he slammed his Tesla into a stationary truck injuring the owner who had been attempting to change a flat tire.

Dontae had just left a night club and was found asleep on the literal side of the road outside of his vehicle by police.

The same year in 2023, Dontae also divorced his wife, Megan Harpe, of eight years.

Additionally, Dontae faced two lawsuits in 2023, one from his father as he was in Dontae's vehicle during the DUI incident and a second from a vendor regarding non-payment issues for one of Dontae's businesses.

We have seen this precipitous decline before in football players suffering from CTE.

Dontae was a 10 year NFL veteran & multi Pro Bowl winner.

Dontae intercepted Tom Brady twice — once while guarding Randy Moss — Peyton Manning & Brett Favre once.

Dontae was a multipreneur who wisely invested his NFL millions into two businesses, a holistic wellness spa & a luxury chauffeur business.

Dontae was also working on a documentary about how he and his brother rose from impoverished backgrounds, with parents who suffered from drug addiction & alcoholism, enduring violence & trauma as they witnessed their uncle shoot their father, to become multi Pro Bowl NFL veterans with Vernon winning a Super Bowl.

Dontae was also committed to holistic wellness and did not even like to take OTC medication and stopped taking Toradol during his time in the league once he researched the long term consequences.

Dontae started his holistic wellness spa because he was committed to helping others heal in a holistic and integrative sense.

Dontae was also unafraid to follow his heart even when faced with enduring the backlash of millions of angry Bills fans demanding to know why he had supposedly "quit on the team".

Imagine you are an NFL player, a veteran who just turned 30 after having your third groin surgery, on a $5 million prove it deal with the Buffalo Bills.

Would you have the courage to walk out during halftime if you had had an epiphany on the sidelines as Vontae said he did?

From Vontae's Instagram post & personal tweet:

”I have been doing what my body has been PROGRAMMED to do”.

Tackling & running drills from Pop Warner to the Pros are Pavlovian whistle blowing conditioning brainwashing exercises of repetitive brutalistic violence!

Decades of tackling & hitting drills that literally brainwash these men as children to commit acts of violence upon one another. Its fucking creepy & dystopian as fuck if you really think about it. It is extremely militaristic but these are kids participating in these violent repetitive brain damaging tackling and hitting drills so it is even more dystopian — 5, 7, 9, 11, even 13 years old — they are legally minors, they are not adults!

They are children!

Why are they endlessly hitting each other in creepy violent militaristic drills with Pavlovian whistle blowing?

How else do you get them to override their bodys natural self defense mechanisms?

How else do you get them to turn off their natural self preservation instincts, go out there and hit somebody!

From Vontae's Instagram post & personal tweet:

“Its more important to me and my family to stop sacrificing myself for this game and to walk away healthy than to continue to embrace the WARRIOR MENTALITY and limp away when its too late”.

Warrior mentality is nothing but the brainwashing I described above.

Vontae simply told Coach McDermott that he was "done", removed his jersey and pads, walked out of the locker room and drove home.

Predictable backlash, personal insults & attacks & unmitigated fury ensued among some of Vontae's former Bills teammates, NFL analysts, team journalists and ofcourse the ever rabid and demanding "fans".

Why did Vontae describe this self-realization to CNN as an "out of body experience"?

Because he woke up from a literal lifetime of brainwashing to commit mindless violent acts since he was a child — tackling & hitting drills normalized in America's brutalistic militaristic culture — very publicly during a game at halftime.

And he had the courage not to suppress his realization & to remove his jersey — the ultimate talisman & almost mystical symbol representing all he had broken his body & bashed his brain for since he was a child in Pop Warner — the NFL team jersey with team logo proudly emblazoned on solid bold bright team colors — decades of brainwashing & Pavlovian conditioning — & he walked out of the stadium a free Black man — there is nothing more dangerous to the NFL and to the white supremacist capitalistic exploitative racist mass incarcerating colonialist AmeriKKKa.

The lifelong brainwashing that started when Vontae was a child had been short-circuited by his own self actualization.

ESPN.com:

“But his mind felt far away — like he was going through the motions in a game he had spent decades playing.”

Vontae sat on the bench on the sidelines then he realized what was happening.

His mind had finally caught up with his body.

Mentally, he was finished.

Vontae felt scared and vulnerable and wasn't sure what to do — all he knew was that he couldn't return to the field. He needed to get away.

“Im done.” Vontae told his defensive coordinator.

He removed his Bills jersey & pads & texted his wife.

“Babe, Im done. Im hanging up my cleats. I dont want to put my body through this anymore.”

Vontae called his brother Vernon who was in the Redskins locker room at halftime.

The brothers never called each other during games so Vernon answered right away.

“Im retired.” Vontae said.

Vernons heart sank. “Are you joking or are you serious?”

“…Im tired.” Vontae replied.

ESPN.com:

Dontae says, in the moment when he realized football was no longer his purpose, he felt overwhelmed but he trusted himself and left the field.

“It was honestly one of the best decisions I've made in my life.”

Dead at 35.

His ex-wife who he divorced last year that he was married to for 8 years said he “100% had CTE” and “there was more to the story” of his death.

No official cause of death was ever released to the public despite a full autopsy being done.

It does not appear that Vontae's brain was ever donated to be tested for CTE despite Vontae himself telling CNN in an interview that he feared he had CTE and it was one of the reasons for his sudden and abrupt retirement from the NFL.

10 years in the NFL. 3 years at Illinois. 4 years in high school. Multiple years in youth tackle football.

As a cornerback, all of those hits, all of those collisions, all of those head impacts, all of that violence adds up.

And, given the fact that he was running two successful businesses, had been married for nearly a decade, had wisely invested his NFL earnings and was extensively traveling before his life began to unravel a little more than a year before he was found dead alone in his mansion...

How many times do we have to see this movie?

Do you honestly think that Vontae Davis didn't die at 35 — just like Ray Lewis' son did at 28 — from the sport of football?

Or do you just not give a damn?

The sport of football with all its attendant spectacle, pageantry, glamour, allure, gloss, shine, breathless anticipation, endless storylines, drama, exhilarating highs, adrenaline rushes and of course the vicarious thrill of the violence along with the constant dehumanization of the players and minimization of the brutality of the sport by every analyst, color commentator, sideline reporter and journalist gives you a license not to give a damn.

The violence is sanitized and Photoshopped for your viewing pleasure and enjoyment.

Don't forget to order a large Papa John's along with your CTE drug overdoses and deaths under 35.

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elinerlina · 7 months ago

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Red Velvet's Joy x Fresh Beauty for Allure Korea D-Edition - April 2024 Issue

#joy #park sooyoung #red velvet #magazine #fresh beauty

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fuzzyballblog · 8 months ago

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I'm Fuzzy (14)

Happy April Fools!

Wow 2 weeks of daily updates, I'd like to thank everyone who's seen my posts so far, and just say it gives me a lot of motivation.

Yesterday I ate mostly Meat and potatoes lol, along with a nighttime snack of tuna and crackers. I'll be honest, it seems to just be melting off of me and idk why. Do I have a medical issue? Idk.. but I don't really care ATM cause I'm down ANOTHER 2LBS wooooo!!! Well more like 1.6.

No drawing BUT I did crochet and I stayed sober. Officially 2 days without weed. I wanna see how long I can last until I either hang with friends or crumple to the allure.

Finally, I didn't save but my paycheck is coming out on Wednesday, and I'm hoping to put away 100$, that's a promise I won't add to the total yet.

If you're struggling with your weight, addiction, or money problems. Reach out to friends and family. Use your support systems, and know that in the end you'll be okay 💖

🐄 0 hours drawing 🐄 312.4 lbs (-10.6) 🐄 70$ (+0$) Saved 🐄 2 Days Sober 🐄 April 1st 2024

#self care #weight loss #open dms #self improvement #artists on tumblr #blog #i wanna lose weight #daily blog #personal blog #cow #10 pounds lost

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dorleco · 7 months ago

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Advancing VCUs In Electric And Hybrid Vehicles

April 29, 2024

by dorleco

with no comment

Autonomous Vehicle Technology

Introduction

As the world gradually moves toward a greener and more sustainable future, VCUs in electric and hybrid vehicles have emerged as a potential means of combating climate change and reducing our dependency on fossil fuels. The Vehicle Control Unit (VCU) is a crucial component enabling the sophisticated technology that powers these state-of-the-art, environmentally friendly cars.

This blog explores the revolutionary effects, utility, and significance of VCUs on modern mobility, with particular reference to their application in electric and hybrid vehicles.

1. The Advancement of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles

Before we get into VCUs in Electric and Hybrid Vehicles, let’s take a quick look at the context in which these vehicles have gained popularity. Fears about pollution, climate change, and the depletion of fossil fuel resources have the auto industry searching for substitute propulsion methods. In terms of fuel efficiency and carbon emissions reduction, hybrid and electric vehicles present an alluring substitute for traditional internal combustion engine vehicles due to their ability to run on electricity.

2. Understanding the Vehicle Control Unit (VCU)

The brains of electric and hybrid cars are called vehicle control units, or VCUs. It is a powerful on-board computer that manages and arranges several essential functions to ensure a smooth and efficient driving experience. In addition to providing vital safety features, VCUs are crucial for maintaining battery health, optimizing energy consumption, and enhancing vehicle performance.

3. VCUs in Electric and Hybrid Vehicles: Features and Functions

Battery Management System (BMS): One of the primary responsibilities of the VCU is to oversee the Battery Management System. Monitoring the battery’s voltage, temperature, and charge level is necessary to maintain optimal performance and avoid overcharging or discharging, which may reduce the battery pack’s lifespan.

Powertrain Control: The energy flow from the battery to the internal combustion engine or electric motor is coordinated by the VCU, which also manages the powertrain. The management of torque, speed, and gear ratios is necessary to achieve optimal efficacy and performance.

Regenerative Braking: VCUs enable regenerative braking, which is the process of recovering kinetic energy during braking and converting it back into electrical energy to recharge the battery. The car’s range is extended, and its total energy efficiency is raised.

Driving Modes: VCUs offer a range of driving modes, such as eco, sport, and normal, allowing the user to adapt the vehicle’s performance to their preferences and road conditions.

Fault Detection and Diagnostics: VCUs continuously scan various car parts, identifying issues or malfunctions and providing diagnostic information to the driver or maintenance personnel so they can take immediate action.

4. How VCUs Work in Autonomous Driving

As we get closer to fully autonomous vehicles, VCUs are essential to ensuring safety and enhancing autonomous driving abilities. VCUs analyze data from several sensors, like cameras, radar, and LiDAR, to give real-time information on the surroundings of the vehicle. This information is necessary to implement advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and make features like adaptive cruise control, automated emergency braking, and lane-keeping possible.

5. Improvements at VCUs

Adapt to changes in technology. The efficiency and functionality of VCUs in electric and hybrid vehicles are continuously being improved by manufacturers, allowing for smoother integration with other vehicle systems. Modern algorithms and artificial intelligence enable the capacity to learn from driving behaviors, maximize energy consumption, and personalize the driving experience.

The physical size and weight of these components are being decreased by VCU manufacturers to make these units lighter and more suited to different vehicle architectures. Integration with cloud services and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) connectivity, which facilitates data exchange between automobiles and infrastructure for more intelligent mobility solutions, further improves VCU’s capabilities.

6. Challenges and Opportunities

Conclusion

VCUs in electric and hybrid vehicles have a bright future ahead of them. In the years to come, VCUs in electric and hybrid vehicles will be widely used due to the continuing advancements in energy efficiency, driving range, and safety regulations.

Although the technology for VCUs in electric and hybrid vehicles has advanced impressively, there are still certain issues to resolve. Standardization of VCU interfaces and communication protocols is required to guarantee interoperability with various car models and manufacturers. Cyber security is also a major issue because VCUs handle private information and regulate vital automotive systems. Strong cyber security measures must be put in place to thwart such threats.

VCUs have a bright future ahead of them in hybrid and electric cars. In the upcoming years, the broad adoption of VCUs in electric and hybrid vehicles will be facilitated by ongoing research and development that will raise safety requirements, driving range, and energy economy.

To review our excellent VCU products and services and to find out more about our software development capabilities for battery-specific applications, send an email to [email protected].

#VCU #CANBus #FutureOfMobility #AutonomousDriving #VCUSupplier #VCUManufacturer #Dorleco

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white-persian-cat · 7 months ago

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Deciphering the Enigmatic World of Persian Cats: Persian cat price in India under 2000

Deciphering the Enigmatic World of Persian Cats

24 April 2024 by whitepersiancat.com

Persian cat price in India under 2000: In the heart of India’s bustling cities and serene countryside, there exists a fascination for feline companionship, especially when it comes to the elegant and enigmatic Persian cat. With their luxurious coats and captivating eyes, Persians have long been adored as pets, gracing homes with their regal presence. However, in a country as diverse as India, the quest for a Persian cat under ₹2000 can be akin to uncovering a hidden treasure.

Table of Contents

Persian cat price in India under 2000

Navigating the Quest: Persian Cat Prices in India

Beyond the Purchase: Considerations for Pet Ownership

Embracing the Journey: Finding Fulfillment in Feline Companionship

Conclusion

FAQs

Persian cat price in India under 2000

Before delving into the realm of Persian cat prices in India, it’s essential to unravel the allure of this beloved breed. Originating from Persia (modern-day Iran), Persians boast a rich history dating back centuries. Renowned for their long, flowing coats, flattened faces, and expressive eyes, these felines exude an aura of elegance and sophistication. Persian cat price in India under 2000.

Navigating the Quest: Persian Cat Prices in India

In a country where the pet industry is thriving, finding a Persian cat priced under ₹2000 may seem like a daunting task. The reality is that the cost of purchasing a Persian cat is influenced by various factors, including pedigree, age, coat color, and breeder reputation. While some may luck upon a Persian kitten within this budget, it’s crucial to approach the search with patience and diligence. Persian cat price in India under 2000.

One avenue to explore is local animal shelters and rescue organizations. These establishments often have a diverse range of cats, including Persians, available for adoption at nominal fees. By adopting from a shelter, not only do you give a deserving cat a loving home, but you also contribute to the noble cause of animal welfare.

Another option is to connect with reputable breeders who may occasionally offer Persian kittens at reduced prices. However, it’s essential to exercise caution and thoroughly research any breeder you engage with to ensure they uphold ethical breeding practices and prioritize the well-being of their cats.

Additionally, networking within pet communities and online forums can provide valuable insights and potential leads on affordable Persian cats. By tapping into these resources, you may uncover hidden gems and opportunities that align with your budgetary constraints. Persian cat price in India under 2000.

Beyond the Purchase: Considerations for Pet Ownership

While acquiring a Persian cat under ₹2000 is a notable achievement, it’s vital to remember that the cost of pet ownership extends far beyond the initial purchase price. From routine veterinary care and grooming expenses to food, toys, and accessories, caring for a Persian cat entails ongoing financial commitment and responsibility.

Furthermore, prospective pet owners should consider the long-term implications of bringing a Persian cat into their lives. These majestic felines require dedicated care and attention, including regular grooming to maintain their luxurious coats and vigilant monitoring of their health due to potential breed-specific issues such as respiratory problems and dental issues. Persian cat price in India under 2000.

Embracing the Journey: Finding Fulfillment in Feline Companionship

While the pursuit of a Persian cat in India under ₹2000 may pose challenges, it’s a journey that ultimately culminates in the profound bond between human and feline. Whether through adoption, collaboration with reputable breeders, or serendipitous encounters, the reward lies not in the price tag but in the immeasurable joy and companionship that Persian cats bring into our lives. Persian cat price in India under 2000.

As you embark on this quest, remember to approach each step with patience, empathy, and an open heart. In the end, the journey of finding your perfect Persian companion transcends financial constraints, enriching your life with the timeless beauty and unwavering devotion of these remarkable felines.

Also Read: Discover the Himalayan Persian Cat Price in Pakistan 2024 Also Read: Unveiling Persian Cat Characteristics | A Feline’s Fascinating Qualities 2024

Conclusion

Persian cat price in India under 2000: In the vibrant tapestry of India’s pet-loving community, the allure of Persian cats shines brightly, captivating hearts with their beauty and charm. While the quest for a Persian cat under ₹2000 may present its share of challenges, it’s a journey marked by perseverance, compassion, and the unwavering desire to forge a lasting bond with a beloved feline companion. Whether through adoption, collaboration with reputable breeders, or serendipitous encounters, the true essence of pet ownership transcends financial constraints, finding fulfillment in the cherished moments shared with these majestic creatures. As you navigate the enigmatic world of Persian cats in India, may your quest be guided by patience, empathy, and a profound appreciation for the timeless beauty and enduring companionship they offer.

FAQs

Can I find a Persian cat in India for under ₹2000?

While it’s possible to find Persian cats within this budget, it requires patience and diligence, often involving avenues such as adoption from shelters or occasional offers from reputable breeders.

What factors influence the price of Persian cats in India?

The price of Persian cats is influenced by various factors, including pedigree, age, coat color, and breeder reputation.

Are there any specific considerations for owning a Persian cat in India?

Yes, prospective owners should be prepared for the financial commitment of pet ownership, including veterinary care, grooming, and providing a nurturing environment conducive to the well-being of the cat.

How can I ensure the ethical purchase of a Persian cat in India?

It’s essential to research and vet breeders thoroughly, ensuring they adhere to ethical breeding practices and prioritize the welfare of their cats.

What are the benefits of adopting a Persian cat from a shelter in India?

Adopting from a shelter not only gives a deserving cat a loving home but also contributes to the noble cause of animal welfare. Additionally, shelters often offer cats at nominal fees, making it a more affordable option for prospective owners.

#white persian cat price in india #white persian cat #persian cat #cat food #persian cat food #Persian Cat Price #Cat Price In India #Persian Cat Price India

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onenettvchannel · 7 months ago

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BALITANG KONSYUMER: Unveiling the Hidden Dangers of Skin-Whitening Products when Mercury is found and sold in the PH sparks brazenness alarm

MALOLOS, BULACAN -- In a world where fair skin is often seen as beautiful, skin-whitening products (SWP) can be very alluring. However, there is a hidden reality lurking beneath the promise of a more radiant complexion that potential buyers of these beauty commodities in the Philippines must consider. These supposedly harmless creams and lotions contain mercury, which has recently been brought to light through revelations regarding illegal trade.

Mercury, being a toxic heavy metal; is found in most SLPs because it inhibits melanin production. Mercury still pervades some brands sold on the market despite the regulatory bodies' ban like Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for instance here in the Philippines. The ramifications of employing such mercury-filled products are dire; they range from similar illnesses like contact dermatitis to more severe ones including immuno-compromised systems and neurologic defects.

A groundbreaking documentary dubbed 'The Dark Side of Skin-Lightening' was launched Monday morning (April 22nd, 2024 -- Bulacan local time) at La Consolacion University-Philippines (LCUP) in Malolos, Bulacan with an intention to create awareness about this pressing issue. The documentary, which was presented both in-person to 1,200 senior high school students and streamed LIVE on Facebook during the school's Earth Day Celebration, highlighted the global proliferation of mercury-added SLPs and the urgent need for stricter regulations to protect Filipino consumers.

During the forum, BAN Toxics conducts a LIVE testing session on the table using an XRF (X-Ray Fluorescence) analyzer, with the help of Traders Industrial Supply Company Inc. (TRISCO) ensuring no mercury is presented in some beauty products. All these imported or locally-made products are not completely sponsored for scientific hazard-related reasons.

In light of these shocking revelations from 'BAN Toxics', it is crucial for individuals to take proactive steps to safeguard their health and well-being. Before purchasing any of beauty or cosmetic products, especially skin-whitening creams to try it out… Consumers are advised to thoroughly check all the list of ingredients for any mention of mercury or other harmful chemicals when you always read the label.

The other thing is that, one should consider consulting with dermatologists or any trusted health professionals to guarantee safety and effectiveness of the products in question.

As long as the demand for skin lightening creams remains high, there will always be a need for consumers to be on guard. By being wise enough, well informed consumers can hugely assist in fighting against mercury laden beauty products’ illegal trade and create a culture of safe and responsible skincare practice.

Our natural skin color should be embraced and celebrated without falling for the dangerous traps hidden behind creams used to bleach the human skin.

PHOTO COURTESY: BAN Toxics via PR

-- OneNETnews Team

#consumer news #malolos #bulacan #mercury #beauty products #cosmetics #hidden dangers #fyp #awareness #BAN Toxics #OneNETnews

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hellofastestnewsfan · 6 years ago

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In Russia, journalism is far from the safest profession—even more so when the subject of investigation happens to be a private mercenary army engaged in multiple active conflicts abroad. On July 30, three Russian journalists were killed in the Central African Republic (CAR) while investigating a particularly dangerous topic: the Russian private military company Wagner, a mercenary outfit highly active in the Syrian and Ukrainian conflicts. At least two other Russian journalists have also suffered while researching Wagner, including Maxim Borodin, who suddenly fell to his death from a balcony in Yekaterinburg in April, and Denis Korotkov, a Saint Petersburg journalist forced into hiding after receiving death threats owing to his work on Wagner. There are now indications that Wagner forces may be present with both rebels and government forces in the CAR. A unit of the group, filmed by the recently deceased journalists, was operating in rebel-held territory—contrary to Moscow’s assertions that Russian forces were present only to assist CAR authorities.

While Wagner attempts to suppress investigations into its activities, the information available suggests an outfit that plays an increasingly crucial role for Moscow both abroad and at home. But even as this strategy has allowed Russia to rack up military successes without risking its own ground forces, it has also created an explosive situation: Skilled soldiers of fortune who take their orders from an oligarch—not from the Kremlin—are playing a central, unpredictable role in shaping Russia’s foreign policy.

Though the exact nature of Wagner’s relationship to the Kremlin remains murky, it has demonstrated a growing ability to create headaches for Russian authorities. Its origins date back to 2013, when an earlier iteration of Wagner, known as the Slavonic Corps, engaged in a disastrous mission to Syria at the behest of unknown Damascene businessmen. One of the commanders of the Slavonic Corps, a former Russian military intelligence (GRU) colonel named Dmitry Utkin, reemerged shortly thereafter, in early 2014, fighting in eastern Ukraine at the head of a GRU-linked outfit called PMC Wagner. It played a pivotal role in major battles there, working closely alongside Russian military forces and their separatist proxies over the next year and a half.

Syria’s war has never been more international.

After proving its mettle in Donetsk, Wagner joined Moscow’s official intervention in Syria shortly after it began in September 2015, playing a leading role in the capture of Palmyra and Deir ez-Zor. Wagner has functioned as an undeclared branch of the Russian military: Its fighters fly to Syria on Russian military aircraft, receive treatment in Russian military hospitals, work alongside regular Russian forces in operations, and are awarded Russian military medals signed personally by Vladimir Putin. Backed by Russian airpower, Wagner fighters have been instrumental to the Syrian government’s reconquest of much of its territory, spearheading assaults against entrenched Islamic State positions in lieu of ineffective Syrian militias.

While Russia has long histories with Ukraine and (to a lesser extent) Syria, nothing of the sort can be said of central Africa, Wagner’s present area of focus. Following talks between Russia and Sudan on security cooperation late last year, a video emerged showing Russian contractors training local pro-government militia in the country. Then, in March 2018, the Kremlin issued a statement that 170 “civilian advisors” (widely understood to mean Wagner forces) had arrived in the CAR to train government forces. At the end of July, another 500 alleged Wagner fighters appeared on the Sudan-CAR border. There are persistent rumors of their current or future presence in Libya, with one Wagner commander stating in March that his fighters would soon head there. These developments seem to confirm reporting from a Russian journalist who, in March, posed as a Wagner recruit to access its main training base in southern Russia. “Half our guys are preparing for Africa,” he was told.

Sub-Saharan Africa probably isn’t a dream destination for Russian fighters, but a hefty financial incentive smooths that over. While the average Wagner paycheck fell last year by a third from its initial value (240,000 rubles monthly, or roughly $3,550), the current rate of 160,000 rubles still far outpaces the typical wages in provincial Russia. Interviews with families of deceased Wagner fighters, many of them drawn from central Russia’s dilapidated Ural region, have confirmed the group’s monetary allure.

Ideological motivations also play a large role in Wagner recruitment. Russian society has become more militarized in recent years, with new government initiatives for youth regiments and indoctrination from a young age. Moscow actively encourages this militant nationalism, under the guise of “patriotic mobilization.” Wagner, with its higher salaries and promises of foreign adventure, is well positioned to take advantage of this trend. One of its commanders recently stated that for their recruits, the feeling is clear: “Even if you are 10,000 kilometers from home, you are still fighting for the motherland.”

Wagner could also come to play a key role in Russia itself—namely, in the North Caucasus republic of Chechnya. Following Russia’s brutal reconquest of Chechnya in the early 2000s, it exists within the country as a state within a state, led by Ramzan Kadyrov, who exercises absolute authority with the Kremlin’s blessing. He commands tens of thousands of loyal, highly trained security forces.

For Wagner, Chechens are not just undesirable: They are banned from the organization, according to one commander. Despite this, Wagner fighters have fought alongside Chechens in Syria. While he continues to profess his loyalty as a “foot soldier in Putin’s army,” Kadyrov has grown more brazen in recent years, sometimes directly challenging Kremlin policy. There has been much speculation over whether a third Chechen war is inevitable, and what will happen once Putin’s current term ends in 2024. In the event another conflict does occur, with Kadyrov turning on his erstwhile masters, Moscow may turn to Wagner. As profiles of the fighters killed in Syria suggest, many Wagner recruits are veterans of the Chechen wars. It would seem to be a perfect answer for Russia’s Chechnya problem.

Wagner also offers Putin political insulation. Last year, the Islamic State captured two Wagner fighters in eastern Syria, and paraded them before the camera. Had they been Russian servicemen, the outcry at home would likely have been deafening. Instead, their captivity was brushed aside, with the Kremlin simply saying they were “probably volunteers.”

But this degree of separation is also a liability. Wagner’s forces remain outside the Russian armed forces, following the whims of their master, the oligarch Yevgeny Prigozhin. In February, Wagner mercenaries launched a surprise assault on U.S.-backed Kurdish forces in northeastern Syria, eventually suffering hundreds of casualties in a four-hour firefight that saw heavy American airpower brought to bear on the group. The result: a public-relations catastrophe for the Kremlin, which struggled to explain the nature of these mercenaries who had just assaulted U.S. positions, while covering up dozens of deaths. Judging from the haphazard and repeatedly revised Kremlin explanations of the event, it seems unlikely that Russian officials were apprised of the scale of the assault or its targeting of Americans. But Wagner’s position ultimately depends on the mercurial personal relationships among Prigozhin, Putin, and other top Kremlin officials. An earlier argument between Prigozhin and Minister of Defense Sergei Shoigu in mid-2016 was followed by a sharp reduction in the quality of military supplies and air support available to Wagner forces in Syria.

Wagner seems to exist to push the envelope of what Moscow can achieve in new environments. The central African adventure epitomizes this strategy. It allows Russia to enter a foreign, largely hostile environment with minimal risk, and to exploit both political and economic opportunities there. Wagner appears to have tapped this possibility at the highest level, reportedly serving as CAR President Faustin-Archange Touadera’s personal security detail. The withdrawal of hundreds of U.S. soldiers from Africa and widespread antipathy throughout the CAR toward the French, the traditional power brokers in their former colony, have left the CAR as what one United Nations official calls a “free country for the taking.” Russia has spent much of the past decade looking to reassert itself globally; following largely successful forays into the Middle East, Africa marks a natural next step for the Kremlin’s foreign policy. Add in the promise of lucrative gold and diamond resources and it’s easy to see why the country would be an attractive target for Moscow (and a profitable one for Wagner).

Despite these hiccups, the past year has been an eminently successful one for Wagner. One Wagner-focused discussion group on a Russian social-media site has seen a spike of activity the past six months. Many users have expressed their interest in joining, while some heated discussions have emerged. (One commentator, looking to join, was told, “This isn’t a fucking game like you think,” to which he responded, “I know what war is, I served in Chechnya.”)

There are also indications that the Wagner model is being replicated. In July, a little-known company called Patriot, reportedly well connected to defense-ministry officials and offering better pay than Wagner, surfaced. Its contractors can reportedly earn up to 1 million rubles a month, an unthinkable sum for anyone living outside Moscow’s Garden Ring. It remains to be seen exactly what role Patriot, Wagner, or any other imitators will play in Africa, Syria, and elsewhere going forward, but it appears as though the private military company as an instrument of Russian foreign and domestic policy is here to stay.

from The Atlantic https://ift.tt/2BLfWCt

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revuedepresse30 · 7 years ago

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Faut-il débrancher Kanye West ?

Si les éventualités d’un nouvel album de Kanye West en collaboration avec Kid Cudi ou d’un disque de Pusha T ou de Nas produit entièrement par le génie chicagoan sont de belles promesses d’avenir, il n’en est pas de même pour les tweets récents du rappeur. Les chaussures moches et les citations philosophiques aux allures de mantras de coach de vie/gourou et les tweets rempli de naïveté ont été remplacés par des déclarations plus que douteuses.

Depuis quelques jours Kanye West affirme son soutien à Donald Trump et à certains membres de l’alt-right américaine (l’extrême droite). Tout a débuté avec un tweet concernant Candace Owens, une afro-américaine conservatrice controversée, supportrice de Donald Trump au cœur des débats depuis ses propos véhéments sur le mouvement Black Lives Matter ("Des enfants pleurnicheurs qui prétendent être oppressés pour avoir de l’attention") et une série de vidéos de Scott Adams, créateur du cartoon Dibert qui s’est aussi illustré en prétendant que le viol était un "instinct naturel de l’homme" et que la société était "une prison virtuelle pour les désirs naturels des hommes".

I love the way Candace Owens thinks

— KANYE WEST (@kanyewest) 21 avril 2018

pic.twitter.com/mxlrb7rBFe

— KANYE WEST (@kanyewest) 23 avril 2018

Une série de tweets soutenant Trump : "C'est mon frère"

Si ces deux prises de positions avaient suffi à alimenter un débat houleux, Kanye West poursuit sur sa lancée invoquant à tout bout de champ son statut de libre-penseur. Ainsi, il a réaffirmé son soutien à la présidence de Donald Trump dans une série de tweets le concernant : "Vous n’avez pas à être d’accord avec Trump, mais la foule ne peut pas m’empêcher de l’aimer. Nous avons tous les deux l'énergie du dragon. C’est mon frère. J’aime tout le monde. Je n’ai pas à être d’accord avec ce que chacun fait. C’est ce qui fait de nous des individus. Et nous avons le droit de penser en toute indépendance.", "Ma femme vient de m’appeler, et elle veut que je clarifie la situation. Je ne suis pas d’accord avec tout ce que fait Trump. Je ne suis d’accord à 100% avec personne excepté moi-même.".

You don't have to agree with trump but the mob can't make me not love him. We are both dragon energy. He is my brother. I love everyone. I don't agree with everything anyone does. That's what makes us individuals. And we have the right to independent thought.

— KANYE WEST (@kanyewest) April 25, 2018

my wife just called me and she wanted me to make this clear to everyone. I don't agree with everything Trump does. I don't agree 100% with anyone but myself.

— KANYE WEST (@kanyewest) April 25, 2018

Candidat aux prochaines élections présidentielles

La semaine chargée de Kanye West ne s’arrête pas là puisqu’il a réaffirmé son intention de se présenter à la présidentielle américaine de 2024 par l'intermédiaire d'un poster placardé par un fan dans les rues de Chicago.

pic.twitter.com/KzyHlDaywt

— KANYE WEST (@kanyewest) April 25, 2018

Après ça il aposté une photo légendée "We got love" en compagnie de Sir Lucian Grainge, PDG du groupe Universal Music et Lyor Cohen, tête pensante du secteur musique de YouTube, affublé d’une casquette Make America Great Again. Par la suite deux des déclarations du rappeur seront retweetées par le président Donald Trump.

we got love pic.twitter.com/Edk0WGscp6

— KANYE WEST (@kanyewest) April 25, 2018

Thank you Kanye, very cool! https://t.co/vRIC87M21X

— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 25, 2018

Par ailleurs, Kanye West a annoncé se retirer du "business musical traditionnel" en se séparant de son manager Scooter Braun en tweetant "Je ne peux être managé". Rapporté par TMZ, cette information a été suivi d’un commentaire d’Harvey Levin, chef de TMZ, a qualifié d'"erratique" le chicagoan. Ce à quoi le principal intéressé a répondu : "Harvey Levin de TMZ, c’est ton futur président qui te parle. Soyons amis. S’il te plaît n’utilise jamais le mot erratique pour décrire une personne économiquement et psychologiquement en pleine possession de ses moyens". Des attaques largement discutés par Kim Kardashian dans une série de tweets.

To the media trying to demonize my husband let me just say this... your commentary on Kanye being erratic & his tweets being disturbing is actually scary. So quick to label him as having mental health issues for just being himself when he has always been expressive is not fair

— Kim Kardashian West (@KimKardashian) April 25, 2018

Deux jours intensifs sur Twitter se résument à une maxime qu’il a lui-même publié sur Twitter et qui prend une tournure beaucoup moins amusante : "Vous pouvez dire ce que vous voulez du moment que vous mettez le bon emoji à la fin".

you can say anything as long as you put the right emoji next to it.

— KANYE WEST (@kanyewest) April 24, 2018

Depuis plusieurs forums de l'alt-right se sont emparés de ces déclarations tandis que Kanye West enchaîne les références au film Get Out de Jordan Peele, tease des nouvelles collaborations avec Travis Scott, Lil Uzi Vert et A$AP Rocky et prévoit des rendez-vous avec des dirigeants d'Apple ou Google.

from Les Inrocks - musique https://ift.tt/2HZMyaW via IFTTT

#lesinrocks #musique #Les Inrocks - musique

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dailykyun · 9 months ago

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[240318] - changkyun at allure korea april issue cover

#240318 #changkyun #monsta x #i.m #p: twitter #p: official #p: photoshoot #april issue—allure 2024 #mx #era: off the beat

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rickhorrow · 8 years ago

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15 TO WATCH: RICK HORROW’S TOP SPORTS/BUSINESS/MARKETING/ENDORSEMENT ISSUES FOR THE WEEK OF APRIL 3

with Jamie Swimmer

As millions of global golf fans prepare to watch The Masters on their phones, tablets, and laptops (especially during Thursday and Friday’s workday rounds), it’s notable that host city Augusta, GA is known as the “Cyber Capitol of the South.” So why is Augusta so high on the tech-o-meter? In 2012, the NSA opened a regional headquarters on base at Augusta’s Fort Gordon. In late 2013, the U.S. Army decided to move Cyber Command from Maryland to Fort Gordon, and since then, defense contractors like MacAulay-Brown and Booze Allen Hamilton have opened up local offices, and abandoned mills like Sibley Mill are transforming into the likes of the home of Cyberworks. The state has announced plans to build a $50 million facility in downtown Augusta called the Georgia Cyber Innovation and Training Center, a partnership with the Fort, Augusta University, and local government. Within golf, not only is The Masters digitally savvy, largely thanks to IBM, but technology leaders like StubHub hold events at The Masters, and Augusta, the world’s golf cart manufacturing leader, churns out connected carts through Textron and its brands. Maybe we should start referring to The Masters as a “Tech Tradition unlike Any Other.”

The Masters is right around the corner, and this year’s rendition should be as epic as always. According to WalletHub, over 250,000 people should make their way to Augusta, Georgia, this year to join in on the weekend’s festivities, while millions more will tune into the live action from home. Over the last 60 years, we’ve seen exponential growth in media coverage of the pursuit for the green jacket, both in the lead up to the event and during the competition. This is exemplified by the 620% increase in live telecast hours for The Masters from 1956 (2.5 hrs) to 2016 (18 hrs). In terms of the actual green jacket, the iconic prize for the annual winner of The Masters, it costs only $250 to produce the coat, though it holds more prestige and honor than that figure. Augusta National uses its promotional platform as the only major not to rotate on a yearly basis. The traditions continu

On Friday, ahead of WrestleMania 33 in Orlando, Forbes released WWE’s Highest Earners of 2016. More than anything, the chart proved the ongoing relevance of a sport well into its middle age years. The top ten wrestlers made a total $40 million in 2016, up $9 million from 2015. Two-thirds of that increase was thanks to Brock Lesnar, whose return to the UFC earned him a then-record $2.5 million purse. Lesnar is now the top-earning wrestler, taking over the No. 1 spot from John Cena (No. 2, $8 million). New to the list this year are AJ Styles (No. 6, $2.4 million) and Shane McMahon (No. 7, $2.2 million). 33 years later, fans continue to care about the annual Super Bowl of wrestling and the year-round allure of the sport. According to the AP, the final "Raw" before WrestleMania peaked at 3.426 million viewers in the second hour of the show. And Orlando was expecting even more than the 80,000 fans attended last year's WrestleMania in Dallas. Clearly, 33 years after WrestleMania 1, no one considers pro wrestling a niche sport.

It’s official: The Oakland Raiders are moving to Las Vegas. According to the Las Vegas Review-Journal, after a “landslide” 31-1 vote by NFL owners, the Raiders’ move to Las Vegas has been approved; the only team to vote against the move was the Miami Dolphins. Despite sources claiming that NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell and the league wanted to keep the team in the Bay Area, their inability to find a new stadium site eventually forced the move. Goodell said that the plan is for the Raiders to “play in Oakland until the 65,000-seat domed stadium is built” for the 2020 season. But there is already a “move afoot among Alameda County politicians to break a pair of one-year lease agreements with the team and immediately force them from the city.” The Raiders were a candidate to relocate to Los Angeles, but that void has since been filled by both the Rams and Chargers. The NFL should now enter a deserved era of “market stability.” The league can now focus on Canada, Mexico, UK, Germany, and other international opportunities. As for Las Vegas, it gets a facility not only for the Raiders, but University of Nevada Las Vegas, major conventions, concerts, Final Fours, and Super Bowls (probably on a regular basis).

Now that the Oakland Raiders are set to move to Las Vegas, the next order of business is building a stadium. According to SportsBusiness Journal, the team’s proposed $1.9 billion stadium could wind up costing $200 million less, ending up at $1.7 billion. A source close to the team “got the information from a copy of the relocation resolution NFL owners” voted on last week. “The resolution also discloses there is another $200 million public subsidy from Nevada for capital improvements, in addition to the publicized $750 million raised from a bed tax.” The team may eventually need to borrow only around $500 million to help finance the stadium, significantly less than what many speculated the Raiders would need. The Raiders still have a two-year lease to play in Oakland, but the team could play at UNLV’s Sam Boyd Stadium as early as 2018. The NFL has finally achieved an unprecedented period of “franchise market stability” after the Las Vegas relocation is complete.

As a final decision on the 2024 Summer Olympics Games host draws closer, the Paris 2024 bid is gaining momentum after the bid’s organizing committee was given an honor for exceptional sustainability. According to Paris 2024, the committee was “awarded International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 21021 certification, becoming the first ever Olympic and Paralympic Games candidate city to do so.” The certification is regarded as highly prestigious; it is “an internationally-recognized standard handed out to event organizers that are able to guarantee sustainable management of major global events.” SGS, the Swiss-based audit body that awards this certification, found that the Paris 2024 Organizing Committee “excelled in four key areas of sustainable, responsible event planning: social consultation, commitment to stakeholders, governance and legacy.” Paris’ only competitor for the 2024 Olympics is Los Angeles, currently a slight underdog. The ongoing drama between Paris and Los Angeles continues to intensify. As of now, both sides disdain the thought of a 2024 and 2028 joint selection. Each one wants the earlier Games, but it will set up an interesting dynamic two or three months from now.

With mere months left until the planned opening date, the Atlanta Falcons are facing serious concerns over the functionality of their new stadium’s retractable roof. According to the Atlanta Business Chronicle, the Mercedes-Benz Stadium has been having some serious roof functionality issues, causing two significant delays. The Georgia World Congress Center Authority (GWCCA), the state agency that owns the stadium, notified the Falcons it was “receiving inquiries about whether the roof will work.” The roof is supposed to be a showcase feature of the new $1.5 billion stadium, with “multiple petal-like panels that can open and close to let in various amounts of sunlight.” The stadium was originally set to open on March 1, but a third delay is likely to push that date into August. Mercedes-Benz Stadium’s first scheduled event is an Atlanta United match on July 30, followed by two more United matches in August and two Chick-fil-A Kickoff college football games in early September. The roof for this stadium continues to be a showcase of modern technology. The industry holds its breath as the technical folks attempt to resolve problems.

The Buffalo Bills are attempting to rework multiple facets of the team this offseason, outside of the team’s on-field performance. According to ESPN.com, the Bills have “hired a talent consultant to work with their coaches and players” to improve the team’s public image. Gerry Matalon, a former talent coach for ESPN, is “advising Coach Sean McDermott.” Matalon's role “might also expand to include developing” GM Doug Whaley's public image. The team came under scrutiny late last season, so this comes as a significant move for the franchise. Simultaneously, while the Bills are not pushing for a new stadium, they recognize that New Era Field is a “solid, but outdated stadium…” The team’s current lease is set to run through 2023, so while no immediate plans exist for a new stadium, Bills owners Terry and Kim Pegula acknowledge that the team will most likely need one by the end of the lease. The marketing of the Bills in the western New York/Toronto region has been tricky. Fan intensity is unquestioned, but team mediocrity and lack of playoffs has diluted some of the spirit. New stadium issues are inevitable, though not now.

In an interesting twist on landing a naming rights sponsor, EPL club Everton has been told that the design of its new stadium could make or break its chances of landing a multi-million-pound deal. According to the Liverpool Echo, the club has been “warned” about the difficulty of landing a lucrative deal in a “buyers’ market.” The club has agreed on a deal to buy a plot of land at Bramley Moore Dock, and funding for the new stadium is expected to be ratified very soon. Sports sponsorship agency Synergy CEO Tim Crow said that the search for a naming rights partner “is becoming an increasingly crowded market in the Premier League.” If the team wants to land the money it hopes for, the physical structure will have to set it apart from competitors. "The sponsorship market in the U.K. is the softest it has ever been, there are a huge amount of major sponsorships unsold, it is very difficult to sell,” noted Crow. Most executives grapple with ongoing conversations about naming rights coupled with new stadium development or existing stadium modernization. Clearly, the link between the two reflects ongoing commercial and market realities.

The Detroit Lions have made it clear to the NFL that they want to host the Super Bowl in the near future, but the franchise would also settle for the NFL Draft. According to the Detroit News, despite a clear intent on attracting the Super Bowl, it remains unlikely that Ford Field will host the big game anytime soon due to multiple state-of-the-art facilities opening these days; over the next four years, three Super Bowls will be played at new stadiums (Minneapolis in 2018, Atlanta in 2019, and Los Angeles in 2021). Lions President Rod Wood is not discouraged by this, however, and thinks the NFL Draft would be a great fit for the city. “It's a centrally located market,” said Wood. “It’s easy for fans to get to. Our airport isn’t anything but a great airport. I think the Fox Theatre would be a great location.” Another good example of the long-term mobility of the Draft location interesting many NFL teams that might not otherwise secure a Super Bowl in the short-term.

With all of the attention being given to the Raiders these past few months and their pending departure from Oakland, the A’s can now start to focus on their own plans to find a new stadium. According to the San Jose Mercury News, A's Managing Partner John Fisher needs to “seize this rare moment,” as the club looks to build a new ballpark either at the Oakland Alameda-County Coliseum site or elsewhere in the city. Soon to be the last team standing in Oakland, with the Raiders moving to Las Vegas and Golden State Warriors moving into San Francisco, the A’s can leverage their situation to find a new home in the area. The recent ownership takeover this past December means that the team is likely to stay in Oakland, but not unless new President Dave Kaval is willing to spend some money to keep the team there. History has told us that once a team departs, the remaining team gets its political calls returned quicker than before. Surely, the A’s will attempt to take advantage of this momentum and ongoing opportunity.

When the Rams slipped out of St. Louis for Los Angeles last year, there was a void to fill. According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, the Kansas City Chiefs started televising most of their regular season games in St. Louis this past season, and the results were encouraging for the team. They now plan “more of the same” in 2017, hoping to win over more support from the western Missouri fan base. The Chicago Bears and Arizona Cardinals made quick moves to televise their games in St. Louis back when the Rams left, but the Chiefs fared the best. “Our preseason games rated very well, better than the other teams that had preseason games in the market,” said Chiefs President Mark Donovan. The team also reported a slight increase in season-ticket sales from the St. Louis area. The Kansas City/St. Louis region has been known as one of the largest “market areas” in the country, and the Chiefs are clearly attempting to take advantage of it.

The NHL continues to expand its reach after announcing a formal push into the Chinese market. According to SportsBusiness Journal, the league revealed plans to host its first-ever preseason games in the country as part of a multiyear deal with China-based commercial sports company Bloomage International Group. The Los Angeles Kings and Vancouver Canucks will play two preseason games against each other in late September, one at Mercedes-Benz Arena in Shanghai and the other at Huaxi LIVE Wukesong’s Le Sports Center in Beijing. “China-based O.R.G. Packaging, which has partnerships with the Kings, Bruins and Capitals, will serve as presenting sponsor for the games. The announcement also serves as the NHL’s push into accelerating the development of hockey in China.” Bringing NHL action to China will help increase popularity of the game ahead of the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing. The NHL never sleeps from a global perspective. Even if there is only a small percentage of hockey converts in China, it is still a massive number.

While many professional sports teams are looking to build new stadiums these days, the Colorado Rockies are content where they are. According to KUSA-NBC, the Rockies and the Metropolitan Baseball Stadium District have “reached a 30-year lease agreement for Coors Field” worth $200 million. Only $75 million of that sum will actually be used to rent Coors Field itself, as the club will now pay $2.5 million for the next 30 years to rent the ballpark. The other $125 million of the deal with be “paid to the District to lease the West Lot parking area for 99 years.” The West Lot payments are “front-loaded, where the District receives” $7.5 million each year “for the first five years,” followed by $5 million a year for 15 years, then $1.25 million for 10 years. For years 31-99, the Rockies will “only pay $100 each year.” The longevity of this agreement shows the Rockies’ contentment with their current stadium. Most facilities built 15-20 years ago are now in the “major renovation” phase. In almost all cases (except maybe for Phoenix), the public/private partnership has worked well enough to seamlessly amend the lease to include fan amenities and other technological innovations into the foreseeable future.

UNLV and the Mountain West are putting together an extensive bid to bring three championship events to Las Vegas, but the proposal’s odds of getting passed have decreased as of late. According to CBSSports.com, the proposal is facing steep odds because the NCAA “continues to be a plaintiff fighting a New Jersey law passed in 2014 allowing sports gambling within the state.” The bid to bring multiple championships to Las Vegas between 2019-2022 is “believed to be the first of its kind considered by the NCAA,” and if approved it would be a huge success for a city that has largely been avoided by the NCAA. The proposal includes a men’s basketball regional as well as men’s hockey and wrestling national championships being contested at the brand new T-Mobile Arena on The Strip. Look for more Las Vegas promotion, events, bids, and sports activity now that the region has committed to a new domed stadium to go along with the new T-Mobile Arena.

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rickhorrow · 8 years ago

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15 to watch week of April 3 2017

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